Why PAP should level the playing field
March 30, 2006
The Straits Times
I REFER to Mr Seto Hann Hoi's letter, 'Don't use public resources
to win votes' (ST, March 2
.
The People's Action Party (PAP) does not need to use estate
upgrading as a political tool to win votes. The party has history
and talent on its side.
Each day, as we drive through our impeccably maintained city, we
are reminded of how much life has changed since 1965. Nobody, not
even the PAP's harshest critics, should take credit away from the
ruling party.
Over the years, the PAP has also maintained a good record in
throwing up talented, honest and effective leaders to stand for
election. With regard to historical performance and leadership
renewal, the opposition has not been able to match the PAP.
These facts are open for all to see. I wonder why the PAP is adding
the 'upgrading bazooka' to its impressive arsenal, when the
opposition is fighting only with its bare hands.
Singapore is at the crossroads. Everyone, including the ruling
party, knows that the socio-economic and political model we used
over the past 30 years must be renewed in order for Singapore to
progress.
The old political order bred great efficiency and order. Our
well-oiled Singapore machine was always primed to 'make things
work'. Multinational corporations loved us and came here in large
numbers; we built our domestic industries and the lives of every
Singaporean improved.
Having gained this newfound prosperity, Singaporeans have also
developed a good degree of sophistication. As our society matures,
bread-and-butter issues like upgrading will matter less.
A vibrant democracy and true meritocracy within our political ranks
are what we are looking for. Over time, using upgrading as a bait
will only lead to cynicism and anger. Nobody likes to be told,
'vote for us, or else...' One day, this strategy will
backfire.
As mentioned by various ministers and academics, the strategy of
being efficient and disciplined will no longer be enough for
Singapore to remain relevant to the world. Creativity, vibrancy and
dynamism are the new watchwords. These qualities will blossom only
if each and every Singaporean has a sub-conscious realisation that
our voice matters, that we have a fair chance to shape the future
regardless of who we are or where we come from, that we the
citizens are ruling this country instead of being ruled over.
For the sake of our sense of nationhood, and for the sake of our
economy, my wish is that the PAP will help to level the playing
field over time. Only then will Singapore be a truly mature
society.
Leon Tham Ngiap Liang
