I think youger ppl will bring new ideas and different pespective
in viewing the problems.
How about having younger NMPs, and 'average
Joe'?
MORE young blood in the Government? Well, here's a thought. Bring
in some younger Nominated MPs - late 20s, early 30s - who could be
representative of the younger population that the Government is
trying to reach.
Up till now, it seems that the ones picked are generally all very
well-established individuals and tend to be over the age of
35.
In my opinion, the reason many young people are somewhat
disillusioned with the Government is largely attributable to the
fact that they don't know the office-holders in person. They have
never met the Prime Minister, they have never talked to a minister.
They see them only on TV or at official openings, giving speeches,
and that is their perception of them.
Unfortunately, the fact that there are also many in the civil
service who are still rather 'old fashioned' in both their
management and PR skills makes matters worse, as these are the
'bosses' of the younger generation.
I count myself fortunate to have had the chance to interact with
some ministers and officials. And, well, let's just say that there
is quite a big difference among them.
I find it harder to relate to the more seasoned minsters. They seem
set in their ways and not very open to new ideas.
On the other hand, the younger ministers I have met are willing to
talk to you as a person, no hierarchy involved, much like the way
modern CEOs interact with their staff. I can relate to them and I
see passion in what they are doing.
This is not to say that the older ministers are not passionate, but
they just don't seem to show it. This could be due to our culture,
and their upbringing.
But had I never met any of them and merely read or heard what they
said, I would have simply brushed it aside as propaganda.
Having said that, I think we should allow for some diversity and
not just bring the scholars and the high-flying entrepreneurs into
the scheme of things.
Get the 'average Joe' into the picture too. You just might be
surprised at his point of view.
STEVEN CHIA OON SEET
