How about non-conformist ex-President Ong Teng Cheong? 
Monday May 16, 2005
EX-PRESIDENTS ALL DESERVE STATE FUNERALS
Lack of a clear policy is puzzling
Like many other Singaporeans, I am both puzzled and saddened over
the non-accordance of a state funeral for former president Ong Teng
Cheong who passed away in February 2002.
To me, the reply from Mr Chen Hwai Liang, the press secretary to
the Prime Minister ("Honour rites still evolving" May 14 15) has
only added to the confusion as to who qualifies for the state
funeral and who does not.
Mr Chen said a person's "rank or the appointment that he or she had
held" need not necessarily determine if a state funeral would be
accorded, as it "depends on the person's services to the nation, as
well as other special circumstances".
In the hearts and minds, knowledge and understanding, of many
Singaporeans, Mr Ong had served us well since 1972 whether as a
Member of Parliament (MP), minister, labour chief or as our first
elected president.
Even before entering politics, he contributed as a grassroots
volunteer in Seletar Hills.
What about his firm beliefs and convictions over the positive
impact of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system, during the
transportation debate in the early 1980s?
Have we forgotten the significance of the three committees headed
by Mr Ong: the Moral Education Committee (1979), Advisory Council
on Art and Culture (1989) and the Chinese Language Review Committee
(1992) which led to significant changes in our society today?
I agree that "when Singaporeans who have made major contributions
to the country pass away, it is right and fitting that they be
honoured and mourned by the nation", regardless of whether they may
or may not be former presidents.
However, isn't it clear that Mr Ong's contributions merited such
appreciation?
In any case, the actions of former presidents Ong and Wee Kim Wee
have taught us valuable lessons in life: Be it about humility,
sincerity, graciousness, courage, concern for others, and so son.
We should remember and appreciate them in the years to come.
It is pointless to have bridges or airports named after them if,
years down the road, our children do not even know their
significance to Singapore. Yet again, the naming of key buildings
or structures in memory of them would help future generations
understand.
For a start, I suggest renaming Changi Airport and the new Low Cost
Carriers (LCCs) terminal as the Ong Teng Cheong Airport and Wee Kim
Wee Terminal. With the emergence of LCCs, more families and
ordinary Singaporeans are able to enjoy the luxury of
travelling.
And given the humble backgrounds of both former presidents, it is
apt that the airport and terminal are named in their memory.
Mr Chen's point that our practices and customs for public
ceremonies and observations are "still evolving", seems contrary to
Singapore's reputation for careful organisation and planning.
It is most unusual that there is no definite policy or rules
regarding a state funeral.
It is ironic that a president is given the honour of the nation's
salute on National Day, and yet when it comes to his funeral
ceremony, the Prime Minister and his Cabinet have the final
say.
Any president, whether outstanding or mediocre, should be given
respect and recognition.
Letters from Jason Lee Boon Hong and Ho Chan Sian
