lets talk religion

We talk religion. That is what the Straits Times did today. Several pages were devoted entirely on the topic of religion and how it will affect social cohesion in a multi religious society like ours. And from some of the comments made by religious leaders of the different sects, they came out quite sensible and reasonable. Religion will always be a pricky thing given what it is and what were written in the scriptures of different faiths. I have read some of them, and unless the religious leaders are revolutionary enough to take a tough stand to expunge the divisive and racist contents in them, religion will always be a dangerous instrument that will drive men to kill each other. Read the various scriptures honestly and find out for yourself what is in there. What we see today are the sanitised versions of religion in practice while the ugly and offensive doctrines have been quitely swept under the carpet, not spoken and pretend not to exist. As long as these doctrines remain in the scriptures, they will be used as a weapon by the unscrupulous at the right moment to divide and destroy each other. What I think is important is for everyone to ask himself/herself on what is being preached to them. Are they sensible and reasonable? Or are they divisive and destructive? One easy gauge is to check on the intellectual level of the preacher. How wise is he/she? Never believe in anyone that is intellectually inferior to yourself and who is teaching you things that you are uncomfortable with. If one is intellectually superior to the preacher, there is no reason not to find your own answers in the scriptures and interpret the scriptures using your own intellect and wisdom instead of relying on the doubtful interpretation of an unwise and intellectually inferior character. The sickening part is that many are fakes or hypocrites.

please don't make people beg for help

The man who jumped the MRT track was jobless for a few months. His wife was earning about $500. He left behind two sons age 13 and 15. Before he left, he probably had only $9 left and he gave it to his younger son to top up his EZ link card. That was the last gesture of a father to his son. And he told them to take care of their mother. 'last night, west coast GRC (boon lay) MP and grassroot leaders went to mr tan's funeral wake, and pass $1000 cheque to his family. MP said if the tan family had look for help from the grassroot organisations, the tradegy would have been avoided. she said actually govt provide a lot of assistance schemes for the people, but people are unwilling or don't know how to get help.' I hope all MPs and the govt understand these words. Many people are unwilling to come forward to beg for help. Also many people may not know where to go for help. It is not an easy thing even for a desperate man to go knocking doors looking for help. It is thus better to reduce the cost of living instead than to keep raising the cost of essential goods services and expect people to come begging.

myth 78

'When age is wisdom' The 21st century is seeing a dramatic change in the belief that maturity and wisdom come with age. And age is, or was, important in how human's manage their lives, societies and countries. This pillar of age old wisdom is crumbling down since the dying years of the 20th century. During that period we have seen the rise and success of many young entrepreneurs, Steve Jobs, Bill Gate, home grown Sim Wong Hoo, the Yahoo, Google, Hotmail and now Youtube, all pointing to the power of youth. The youth has arrived. Youth signifies dynamism, vitality, creativity, freshness, impulse, derring do, spontaneity, adverturism, hip, cool, and the future. Even in the corporate scene we have seen the youth elbowing all the oldies out of their cushy jobs. And once entrenched in power, they made sure that no oldies are allowed to intrude into their newly conquered space. Senior managements are now dominated by the 40s. Soon the 30s will be knocking at their doors. Even in politics, we are seeing more brilliant young people stepping forward to run the nation. And they will run the nation and elbow out the oldies just like they have done in corporations. It is time to can the oldies. Any oldies passing 40 should give up, and forget about looking for a job. Where is there a need for people who cannot run, dance, or stand? The 21st century is the century of youth, of fun and laughters, of merriment, of living life to the fullest. There is no need for the conservative oldies to be around. Life is for living. Everyday is a celebration.

my article in the new paper

haha, it has seen the light...today oct 19.

high medical cost or how to pay?

Khaw Boon Wan in front page news again, in the limelight as the fighter to bring down medical cost. Or maybe I should rephrase it, to make medical cost affordable, or maybe more precise, how to make payment in a way that is easier on the pocket throught extended payments instead of at one go. Am I confusing? I just got this feeling that everyone is barking at the wrong tree, missing the problem or avoiding the real cause of the problem and going around offering solutions which they think are really solving the problem. It is very similar to the problem of traffic congestion. If the road users are constant, if the roads available are the same, no matter how much one increases the ERP charges, there will be congestion if not at point A or road A, it will be at point B or road B, or hopefully, the drivers give up and take public transport. The real problem with medical cost is medical cost. If the cost of medical care is high, no matter how much insurance, how much co payment, how many types of medishield, someone must pay. It is either you pay first or pay later. Or it could be the majority of non users subsidising the minority of big users. Or worst, it could be the poorer group subsidising the richer groups who used private hospitals or A wards. Though they may contribute higher premiums, but their claims are that much more in relation to what they put in. That's what insurance is all about. Pooling of funds. So whoever uses more is being subsidised by those who don't use. Now, do we understand where is the real problem?

A starts fire, B puts out fire

The haze just get worst everyday. And as all the affected nations are thinking of ways to douse the forest on fire, the firestarters are planning when and where they are going to start another fire. To the plantation owners, it is so cheap to burn and clear the forest for their use. Why spend the money to cut or bulldoze the jungle and taking months to do it? Burning is the cheapest and most economical way and effective way of doing the job. So we are going to see the firestarters starting fire while the neighbouring govt spending money trying to douse the fire. How silly can things really get? And who is paying for the effort?

how to provoke a nuclear war?

And the spin doctors are now hard at work spinning more stories about how evil the North Koreans are and how many more detections of radioactivity and more tests. North Korea, you are doomed. North Korea 'will pay a very, very high price for its reckless behaviour,' said Christopher Hill. The world shall learn a lesson from the Americans on how to provoke a nuclear power with punitive actions and avoid having a nuclear war. The way the Japanese and Americans are pushing the North Koreans, war is only a matter of time. That is the only sure thing to happen when nations think that it can bully another nation to dance to their tune. Just keep at upping the ante.

oh america, welcome to the world of terrorism

Oh America, how low can you go? George Bush signed a bill to legalise harsh interrogation practices and military trials against suspected terrorists. Are we going to see water torture and electrical shocks applied onto all the vital parts of the human body as acceptable and legal, beating, and all kinds of torture as ok now? How far will America slide down the road to ignominy? It is legal, it is alright. Everything legal is above the law.

we are safe from north korean missiles

For those who think that Singapore is so important that we deserved to be targetted by the North Korean missiles with nuclear warheads they should sit back and relax with a Tiger. And don't forget to thank the Indonesians. We are invisible from the sky now and the missile guidance system will not be able to break through the thick haze.

foreign talent, dual citizenship and globalisation

The issues of foreign talent and double citizenship are still hot topics and there were several letters in the Straits Times forum on these. And ICA has replied pointing to the concerns of identity and loyalty. And forum writers argued about the inconsistency of wanting to go global, wanting foreign talents and still clinging onto identity and loyalty. There are real problems of loyalty and identity which may not be vital in other countries. Take the example of our closest neighbours Malaysia and Indonesia. How are we going to rationalise loyalty to these countries and Singapore? Being close neighbours and deep historical relationships, the loyalty and identity of the people are quite confusing and blur. From the individual point of views, many with be able to tell clearly where their loyalties lie. But it is not the case to many others. Too close for comfort. And the issue for relaxing on citizenship laws especially for returning Singaporeans. We have this albatross called National Service to reckon with. A too free policy will mean that some will take advantage and stay overseas during NS years and return again. For those who have served their NS, it is good that the country welcomes them back whenever they feel like coming home. This is home, surely. The issues are not as simple, and not confined to these few points raised. Looking at them from one or two factors could make one to offer a simplistic solution. Whatever the policies, some will not be happy.

nep is about giving

'The NEP is about giving wealth to the whole country.' By Mahathir. This is only half truth. Half lies and half truth. The truth is about giving. The lies is giving to the bumiputras and not the whole country. Though the enlightened and more progressive Malay leaders knew that the NEP and its task of giving without having to work for it is undermining the bumis drive and competitiveness, they have no answer to this sickness. It is like a drug. If it is withdrawn there will be riots and back to May 13. Even Mahathir said so. Mahathir also commented, 'They are still after easy money....I have appealed to them, I've cried and I have done everything possible, but they won't change.' The only way forward is to keep giving.

better selfish neigbours than generous neighbours

Your neighbour can mess up your life. When going flat or house hunting, many people forget to take a closer look at the neighbours until it is too late. Bad or uncivil neighbours will share with you everything that you find offensive. Some may have a little civility to apologise for the shit and smell they sent into your living room or your bedroom, but that is as far as it goes. Look at the haze that our neighbour is sharing with us. Does it matter to them how we are suffering and bearing it? During the earlier days of more arrogant leaders, they even showed you a dirty look if you dare complained. Today, at least they apologised and promised to do something about it, that is if you foot the bill. No matter what, living in a rich neighbourhood with civilised neighbours is anytime better than living with poor and generous neighbours. The haze would not be allowed to happen in Europe. They have reached a level of civility and civic consciousness that they will not do such things to themselves or to their neighbours. It is just not the right thing to do. We have a very long way to catch up with the civilised west, at least in ensuring that our environment is healthy for our own good.

how to spend your cpf savings without your consent

How other people can spend your CPF savings without your consent, even your cash? Is it possible? Yes it is possible. And I don't mean your parents or immediate family member. I mean total strangers that have no blood relations to you. When you live in a block of flats and the majority, not sure if it is 70% or something like, voted to upgrade, sorry mate, you have to contribute like it or not. See, it is so easy to spend your money. And this is on top of all the regulations or new regulations that can hold on to your CPF money for your own old good.

a mischievious hate article

Below is an article I copied from www.littlespeck.com. I do not know the background of this WorldNetDaily and the people behind it. But the article revealed very clearly what it sets out to do, very similar to Epoch Times that is being circulated here for free. This is the kind of propaganda that Asian minds are being fed regularly and over time the subconscious begin to accept this as truth and the hatred becomes instinctive. North Korea's Ethnic cult Kim Jing-il kills off the 'racially impure' and disabled, refugess say. WorldNetDaily Oct 15, 2006 Refugees are reporting the killing of disabled infants and forced abortions of babies believed fathered by Chinese men in North Korea in an obsessive notion of Korean racial superiority. At a forum in Seoul, South Korea, several refugees from the north described a policy of state eugenics carried out with extreme repression. "There are no people with physical defects in North Korea," said Ri Kwang-chol, a North Korean doctor who escaped last year. Babies with defects are killed by medical staff and quickly buried, he told the London Times. Among the "physical defects" that will get a baby killed – even one in the womb – is being half-Chinese. Han Myong-suk, a 30-year-old woman who escaped twice and who was helped to find sanctuary in a third country by Helping Hands Korea, an American Christian group, had her baby forcibly aborted following her return to North Korea after being sold by traffickers to a Chinese farmer. Five months pregnant when the Beijing government deported her, Han was interned in a detention camp for women. "I defied the order to abort the fetus the prison authorities contemptuously called a 'Chinese Chink' and was badly beaten and kicked in my belly by a guard," Han said. She still remembers the guard's name. After a week of resistance, Han said she was taken to the prison clinic and "in a most blunt manner they extracted the dead child from my body." Other witnesses described pregnant women being returned from China and taken to a clinic where labour was induced and the infant suffocated or left to die in a box with other infants in front of their mothers. "Guards would say the mothers had to see and hear their babies die because they were Chinese," a report by the US Committee for Human Rights in North Korea said, noting that the murdered infants were known as "children of betrayers." These most recent reports confirm findings of the Korean Bar Association which reports that 58 percent of defectors its lawyers have interviewed claim knowledge of forced abortions in Kim's prisons. Experts caution against seeing the North Korean regime's cruelty as merely a relict of its proclaimed Marxist ideology while missing its cultish dimensions. Kim Jong-il "It's vital to recognise that 'juche' - the dogma of self-reliance - is not a theory but a cult and that Kim is worshipped as the leader of a religion," a veteran western diplomat who negotiated with the North Koreans on 19 visits told the Times. "These Koreans genuinely believe they are a master race and that the peninsula will be united under the rule of the Kim dynasty." Despite the organisational trappings of a communist state - a Supreme People's Assembly, a presidium, a cabinet and the Korean Workers' party - North Korea is a one-man military dictatorship founded on clan rule, blood ties, mystical ideas of racial superiority and deification of Kim, the diplomat said. This reality explains Kim's deepening estrangement from it's Marxist neighbour, China. The juxtaposition of Kim's mysticism and North Korea's apparent testing of a nuclear device this week has it's parallel in Iran President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's belief that he has been chosen as the person designated to prepare the way for the Islamic messiah's second coming and Tehran's efforts to acquire nuclear weapons. Before the Mahdi, who supposedly disappeared down a well as a child in A.D. 941, can return, there must be chaos and a world apocalypse. WorldNetDaily.com See the trademark of where it originates?

hedonist culture is in vogue

The 1990s were the golden years for Singapore. Money were abundant and were splashed everywhere. Property prices rocketed, and so were prices of cars, country clubs etc. Everyone was having a holiday every weekend. It was a time of spend, spend and spend. Then the party popped. As we enter the 21st century and recovering from the financial crisis of the late 1990s, all the signs of happy times are here. We are seeing the culture of hedonism everywhere. Everyone is happy and enjoying themselves. Wealth and opulent accessories are in full display and paraded to as signs of having arrived. All kinds of clubs are sprouting out everywhere to make people happy. We even have a new Ministry of Sound!!? People are spending again, and clubbing is now a way of life. We are all encouraged to be happy. And two IRs are coming, with probably Disneyland as well. And Sentosa Island is going to be the paradise island of the rich and famous. By 2015, we will look back at the happy times of these years that we are going through today, and the memories of happy people everywhere.

the firestarters busy at work

The firestarter is busy as work, scrambling and concocting all kinds of stuff just to prove that Kim Jong Il is not a liar. The US wanted desperately to prove that the detonation last monday was definitely a nuclear device and aggressive actions can be taken against North Korea. And yes, it is confirmed that traces of radioactive particles were detected, sufficient proof that the North Koreans had done it. By who? The US of course. But The Russians, the Chinese, the Japanese, the South Koreans, all eager to known and must know for their national interests, did not find any radioactivity around the site of the test. And it is very likely that the next country to come out with another confirmation of radioactivity will be the UK even if it has not been monitoring the situation or has not been in the area for the last 6 months. Why is the US so adamant to want to prove that the test was nuclear? Any tension is good for the arms industry in the US, that is for sure. And after starting the fire, the countries that are going to pay for the tension and possible carnage will be the two Koreas, Japan and possibly China and Russia. It is so beneficial to start a fire in somebody's backyard and let everyone else get burnt. Japan is going to pay a heavy price when the North Koreans retaliate. And it is to its interest to make sure that if there is any sanction, it is proper and not unprovoked or conceived somewhere else. Any over reaction from Japan it will have to pay dearly. And rightly the North Korean ambassador in the UN walked out after telling the parties in the meeting that the UN is no longer partial and is being led by the nose by the Americans. The UN is going to impose sanctions on North Korea without confirming if the test is a bluff or genuinely nuclear. The UN is a joke. Or more appropriately the 'statesmen' handling the Korean issue.

be successful at my mercy

Badawi has again said that the Malaysian Chinese and non bumis are doing well in Malaysia because they were given the opportunities to do well. His exact words, 'They were successful because we give them opportunities to be successful.' This sounded like Khairy speaking. Or in fact many of the bumi politicians are also saying the same thing. What does this mean? Simple. The non bumis are there at the grace of the bumis. No matter how long they have lived in Malaysia or been citizens, they are guests and nothing more. And the privileges to be successful can be removed. Now compare this to the concept of citizenship in other countries eg the Afro Asians in the US? If they do well, must they always be grateful that the govt, or the natives have given them the opportunities? In Malaysia there is the divide between the bumis and non bumis regardless of the status of citizenship. Would the minorities in Singapore have to be grateful to the majority for giving them the opportunities to be successful? They are successful not because they worked for it. It was given! I would like to imagine a Malaysia without the non bumis. It will become corruption free for sure as there will be no successful non bumis to line the pockets of the bumis. And all the companies will be run by the bumis, no need for the 30% quota. This can be applied across the country and industries and society. And by god, they will have to work damn hard to earn their keeps without the non bumis to do it for them. Looking at all the bumi companies that are failing one by one, I would not think that it is going to be a good thing. All the politicians will either be bankrupt or the people ie the bumis, will be bankrupt as there will be no profitable companies to distribute the wealth. And when oil stop flowing from Petronas oil fields, what will Malaysia become?

singapore year 2015

This is a fantasy trip, based on a hypothetical scenario of what the political map of Singapore can be like in Year 2015. The ruling party has won a decisive election in 6.6.06. They have done their post mortems and came to the conclusion that year 2011 and 2015 will see the post 65ers calling the shot. They must engage this new generation of voters and win them over. A completely clean slate of young and untarnished professionals were brought in as the next good thing for Singapore. Young, vibrant, active, fresh ideas and free to do whatever they think will win the young voters over. We are already seeing signs of what things will be in politics of the future. It is going to be fun politics, disco dancing, hip hoping, blogging, cyberspace, all new liftstyle things of a new world. We even have futuristic schools to give it further depth in reaching out to the population. A whole futuristic city will be built in Marina South, a name that they spent a lot of money to retain. The older politicians have made their pile and are contented to sing their karaoke and cutting CDs for sale. Some even became showbiz celebrities. The future is in the young things and these senior politicians have done what needed to be done and deserve a tranquil and bountiful life as they sail into the twilight zone. While everything is beautifully planned and executed, the unpreditable young are forever difficult to satisfy and they send in 30 opposition candidates to Parliament in 2011. Alarm signals everywhere. The leaders were fuming. More post mortems and found that they have done not enough dancing and hip hopping. So more campaigns and young things to embrace the young. All the politicians in their goldern years were retired happily to enjoy their pensions, though not quite enough in view of the rising cost of living and swiss standard lifestyle. But they made do with whatever they have. And to bring in better and more talented men, foreign talents were allowed to run for political office. Fresh faces from India, China and even Europeans were handpicked to give Singapore a new look as a global city run by global citizens. Singapore declared itself as the first modern international state. On the opposition camp, seeing that the wall had been breached, recruitment soared and many like minded professionals filled their ranks. Many of them were hungry and with a fire in their belly, not very hip but willing to fight for country and nation above self. Their slogan, Singapore for Singaporeans, became their war cry. 2015 was the turning point when the opposition won a majority and formed a new govt. Many good policies were changed. And foreigners no longer can contest in a general election. More pro Singaporean policies were re introduced. What were right and wise decisions in the past 50 years were all thrown out and belt tightening measures were necessary. Prudence and thrift were the new wisdom. Many of the super rich Singaporeans were worried that the new govt will turn to seize their hard earned wealth and many fled to India and China, the two new and prosperous democratic states. 2015 was recesion year for Singapore and the need to tighten the purse string and dig into the reserves became urgent. While the new ruling govt were spending time opening the vault to get to the nations reserves, the military men made their moves. The new govt is going to bankrupt the nation by spending the reserves and they have no choice but to step in to save the country from destruction. Martial law was declared and a new Prime Minister was appointed from the former ruling party. The military men retired to their barracks but remain as the power broker to safeguard the nation. Singapore never return to democracy till the next century like all ASEAN nations.

anyone still claiming that all is well? read this

i have copied this article posted at www.littlespeck.com. this is the kind of feedback that is needed to be heard. but will it disappear into the blackhole? this article was sent to the straits times but rejected. so lesser people can hear this story. see not evil, hear no evil, do no evil?

Future of Singapore This is a subject of rising concern despite the media's glowing employment figures. By Derek Wee Oct 12, 2006

When I read the Straits Times article (dated 24 Sep) on PM Lee calling the young to be committed and make a difference to Singapore, I have so much thought about the issue.

I am 35 years old, graduated from University and gainfully employed in a multinational company. But I cannot help but feel insecure over the future of Singapore. Lets face it, it's not uncommon to hear, "when you are above 40, you are over the hill".

The government has been stressing on re-training, skills upgrading and re-adapt. The fact is, no matter how well qualified or adaptable one is, once you hit the magical 40, employers will say, "you are simply too old".

We have been focusing our resources and problem solving on low unskilled labour. But in reality, our managerial positions and skilled labour force are actually fast losing its competitiveness.

I travel around the region frequently for the past 10 years. It didn't take me long to realise how far our neighbours have come over the past decade.

They have quality skilled workers, and are less expensive. When I work with them, their analytical skills are equally good, if not better than us.

It's not new anymore. Taxi drivers are fast becoming "too early to retire, too old to work" segment of the society. I like to talk to taxi drivers whenever I am heading for the airport.

There was this driver. Eloquent and well read. He was an export manager for 12 years with an MNC. Retrenched at 40 years old. He had been searching for a job since his retrenchment.

Although he was willing to lower his pay expectations, employers were not willing to lower their prejudice. He was deemed too old. I wouldn't be surprised if we have another No. 1; having the most highly educated taxi drivers in the world.

On PM Lee calling the young to be committed and make a difference. Look around us. How dedicated can we be to Singapore when we can visualise what's in store for us after we turned 40? Then again, how committed are employers to us? But we can't blame them. They have bottom lines & shareholders' gain to answer to.

Onus is really on the government to revamp the society. A society that is not a pressure cooker. A society that does not mirror so perfectly, what survival of the fittest is.

But a society, where it's people can be committed, do their best and not having to fear whether they will still wake up employed tomorrow. Sadly, Singapore does not offer such luxuries and security anymore.

On the issue of babies. The government encourages us to pro-create. The next generation is essential in sustaining our competitive edge. Then again, the current market condition is such that our future has become uncertain. There is no more joy in having babies anymore; they have become more of a liability. It's really a chicken and egg issue.

Many of my peers, bright and well educated have packed up and left. It's what MM Goh called "quitters". It's sad but true, Singapore no longer is a place where one can hope to work hard their lives and retire graciously. It's really the push factor.

A future is something we sweat it out, build and call our own. Unfortunately, people like me, mid 30's going on 40's, staying put by choice or otherwise, we can't help but feel what lies ahead is really a gamble.

To PM Lee and the Ministers, we are on a different platform. Until you truly understand our insecurity, the future of Singapore to me remains a question mark. (SPH rejected this letter - From: LocalSin)

Comments Richard Sim said, Good article. keep it up

KC said, True to every word. I am in my 40s, and I experienced the same sentiment in the job market.

Anonymous said, that was a great blog!! kinda make mi worry abt my future...

Anonymous said, Honestly, you echo my sentiments, It's true. Those that got their fate in their hands are self-employed ones. Yes, keep it up!

Anonymous said, well written! You know what, I share the same sentiment, except that I do not pen my thoughts down..... This is especially true to the reality, if not cruelty of this world. Despite the tripartite guidelines on non-discriminatory recruitment, if we look around us, the fact speaks for itself....... At the end of the day, the ones that suffer the most are those from the middle class as well as those that are heading for their sunset... 40s & above.

Anonymous said... Great, welcome to the real world.... It's creepy but real that Singapore's future is so uncertain and bleak. Definitely something needs to be done for the future of Singapore and our next generation.

Anonymous said, Keep it up..man..You say it all...U hit the G spot of our life in Singapore.. Excellent writeout.. Should bring it up to our Government Feedback Section to tell them how hard our life is in S'pore if you reach 40....sigh..

Anonymous said, Hey!!! You write VERY WELL, but I´m surprised reading it, I didn´t know it was so difficult for you to work here when you are 40. In Europe to be in your 40´s mean to be in the perfect age - for business, for teaching, for EVERYTHING… also 50´s coz your experience! Well, you can always have the possibility of moving, right? Although I don´t think a company would tell you to leave if you are doing good. AND YOU LOVE YOUR COUNTRY, YES? So… fight for being the best in your company and you´ll have the support of all your bosses. You are a good writer… (from Spain)

anonymous said, This is a pro-biz government. No use blaming them when voters did not sent the right signals. The people deserve the government.

Anonymous said, Sad that this country has regressed so much! While we worry about the bleak and uncertain future, we open our arms to welcome so called FT talent/foreigners to seek greener pasture here! Goddamn! What a revelation!

Anonymous said, Not only are babies a liability, but any thinking parent would be concerned about putting their kids through the same shitty system and let them suffer the same fate in the future. The pink IC isn't worth much any more. It's sad. It didn't have to be that way. Many people are voting with their feet. The government is only too pleased when it happens - more cheap foreign workers can be imported as replacements. Notice employment stats use the term 'residents' instead of 'citizens', and 'residents' includes the PRs and even certain categories of work visa holders. Simply amazing.

Anonymous said... I am just over 50. I lost my job arround 50. There is no job available for the last few years searching despite my extensive experience/qualification. Some recruiters even told me I should retire and asked why should I bother to find a job. When I was around 30/40, I was always headhunted for well-paid jobs. But, now there is hardly any call from headhunters. Most companies do not respond to your write-in for job. It seems my skill/experience was highly sought in past years whereas it has suddenly become useless in recent years. Why? If you are still in your 30s or 40s, plan for your future NOW! It may be too late when you are at 50s. Migrating to Europe may be an option according to our friend in spain. Cheers

Anonymous said... That happens when you have 140th reporting news here! Truly Global city of residents not citizens?

duracell said... Good blog. And the implication of this trend is not lost on the young. Already we are seeing rising trends where people just want to make their pot of gold as fast as possible, and by any means necessary. The hit and run mentality, no more morals and ethics. This country treats its people like batteries with short lifespan. Use em, squeeze em and chuck em!

http://www.derekwee.blogspot.com/

house of cards crumbling in iraq

The coalition of the willing's invasion and occupation of Iraq is on its third year. Quietly the party is getting thinner with the willing quietly slipping away. The two main protagonists are now left holding the fort and the weight gets heavier. In the last few days we have seen more or less a rebellion by the British. The new army chief, General Richard Dannatt, openly declared that the presence of British troop is now more a problem than a solution. They are no longer welcome and have over stayed in Iraq. Get out now or face the wrath of an increasingly hostile resistance. Next to follow was the British Foreign Secretary, Margaret Beckett, openly slammed the Americans for holding prisoners at Guantanamo Bay without trial. The British conscience is creeping to life. With Blair fading away, the true British feelings and righteousness are now given some space to breathe and air their objections to this ill conceived war based on deception and misinformation. As Richard Dannatt said, '...we weren't invited by those in Iraq at the time....Let's face it. The military campaign we fought in 2003 effectively kicked the door in. That is a fact.' It may have taken all three years to know the truth. But it is better late than never. And if the British troops are out, the American's presence is that much less tenable and it will be America against the Arab/Muslim world. And the Iraq Episode II shall be screened live to all the households in the world.

myth 77

'Thrift and Prudence are virtues we cherish' Being thrifty and prudent in our finances and our spending habits are age old wisdoms that can do us a lot of good. And many people have made glowing speeches about such virtues and how and why we should all not be philanderers and spendthrifts. Were these speeches made with a genuine intent or a publicity gimmick not to be believed? I must say that I am pleasantly surprised that the HDB finally caught up with such virtues and chewed on the ideas of prudence and thrift. If one cannot afford to buy a bigger or more expensive flat than one's income, one must not be encouraged to do so. Is there a change in mindset or philosophy? How many policies are conceived with thrift and prudence in mind? Is the $3k ceiling to demand people whose family income is above this sum to buy bigger flat in line with such thinking? Are the means testing to determine why certain people must spend more in more expensive hospital wards in the same mould? What about the practice of scrapping cars that are in good working conditions to buy another new car? Is this kind of habit prudent and thrifty? The most prudent and thrifty policy is perhaps the measures or pricing and taxes imposed on water usage. To encourage people to be mindful of the water they used and be thrifty, they are made to pay very much more for their water through higher tariffs, taxes and pricing. The people will all end up very thrifty in water conservation, even taking lesser bath and in double quick time. But their water bill tells a different story about thrift. What about asking the poorer hardlanders to have more babies?

feedback, reach or blackhole?

Amy Khor has described that the Feedback Unit was once a Blackhole. Things only get in and nothing gets out. Ver daring. Now with the change in name and a bigger reach, would things still be the same? 'Public consultation is now part and parcel of all major policy initiatives.' Hsien Loong said. 'Through the process of consultation, discussion and engagement, we can get Singaporeans to understand issues better, build a consensus on the direction forward and a common vision of Singapore.' Active Citizenry is now encouraged even through blogs. Does this means that all blogs by citizens or just those created by Reach? I have posted the case of a couple wanting to buy a 3 rm flat instead of 4 rm in this blog. Apparently for the couple to write to the press they must have hit the wall. No one is going to review their case. The policy cannot be changed. Their problem is that their monthly income exceeded the limit for 3 rm flat marginally and they are not willing to spend too much money on a 4 rm flat. There are many people out there who are very careful and prudent with their money and would not want to be caught in the one upmanship lifestyle. There are a couple of anonymous bloggers responding to my post and instead of engaging in a discussion to explain the policy, they started by attacking me on a personal basis. To them the policy is right and anyone who complained and air disagreements are stupid and disruptive. Where did they come from and why are they setting themselves out to attack other people's views? These are the new thugs in cyberspace. Instead of reviewing at the straight jacket solution, their minds are closed. No one can disagree with govt policies. Would setting up Reach make any difference if such people were to be administrators of govt policies?

spend what you have

A couple wrote to the Straits Times forum pleading with HDB to allow them to buy a 3 room flat instead of 4 room flats because their combined income is more than $3000. This $3000 limit qualification to buy 3 room flat is another one of those outdated policies of anti thrift and forcing people to spend more against their wishes. Why must people be forced to eat sharksfin if they do not wish to? Many policies are in this genre. If you have some money, you must spend what you have. And when the time for retirement comes and you have no money left, it is your own funeral.

schools of the future...got future or not?

I have posted an article on how the banding of schools could help to release the competitive nature of schooling and also reduces stress among the parents. With more schools being banded together as good instead of a few, it is a big relief. The social stigma of being in a lousy school can be unbearable and embarassing. While streaming and gifted programmes laid on the wayside, now a new concept is up, futuristic schools, all 15 of them. Concepts aside, how good are they in creating value and becoming relevant and useful can be discussed in a different platform. But how would another 15 schools add or lessen to the stress of parents? Will parents now see this as another in thing and their children must be in these Schools of the Future or their children will have no future to look forward to? It would be good if these 15 schools will add into the current pool of IP, Independent and top band schools to give parents more choices for their children. If we have 50 or more schools of different brands and shades to be considered good in the eyes of parents, then more of them will be happier as more children can be accommodated in these schools. Let there be more 'good' schools and more happiness around.

lim teck ghee, resigned for academic integrity

Lim Teck Ghee, director of the Centre for Public Policy Studies(ASLI) and a former United Nations' adviser has resigned from. He rather stands on his academic truth than to remain in a position to produce political truths. His report on the bumiputras controlling 45% of publicly listed equities has incurred the wrath of the bumiputras who pronounced that it is inaccurate and irresponsible. And the future Prime Minister of Malaysia, Khairy, had said that damage has been done. In other words Lim Tech Ghee is history. The sin of Lim Teck Ghee is to write an academic report from an academic's point of view and according to academic discipline. What he has forgotten is to ask the masters what kind of results they want. But then again, knowing his integrity to his profession he would rather not do it if that is the case. Now we know the wonders statistics can do. The results can be fined tuned to what the masters want them to be. Just juggle the inputs and you can statistically prove anything you want. I salute Lim Teck Ghee for his professionalism and righteousness.

myth 76

'What problem?' Today I have a problem. For months I have been dwelling on some of the unpleasantness of our society which people regard as problems. This morning I am scratching my head to find a problem or issue to write about, but could not find any. Isn't that a problem? Or is that a happy problem? We no longer hear of people flying down from the highest flat or trying to stop a moving train. All the cost of living issues were resolved with so many grants and schemes to help the people. Medical cost is now affordable, and so were education and tuition fees. And the minute increment on public transport fares too was a non issue. Where else is there a problem? NKF already forgotten, no point talking about it. Minister pay also accepted as a natural thing. And the good news is that property prices are rising and people are rushing out to buy higher priced properties. These must be signs of good times are coming back. Other indications will be what the MPs are doing. If there are really a lot of problems, Parliament will be packed with MPs raising issues for the people. But with so little issues to raise, they can take a little break or go on leave. And what's better to do than go hip hopping and karaokeing! These are the pleasant things of a nation doing well. Everything going according to plans, economy doing well, stockmarket reaching new highs. Doesn't matter when commissions are reaching new lows. I am going to cut my CD with all the beautiful evergreen songs like 'What a wonderful world' or 'Yesterday' and 'Today,' 'I believe I can fly,' or 'Fly me to the Moon.' And I am going to sell them for $300 a piece, and I am very sure many people will be eager to buy them. And of course the proceed will go to charity. And every CD will have my handsome smiling face on it to keep the buyer company. Welcome to my world, ...miracles is all I have....

how to tell the truth

Though it is not unexpected, I still felt terribly disappointed when I recently read that Umno vice- president Muhyiddin Yassin wanted Asli to retract its 45% bumiputera equity ownership estimation. He said the report was a challenge to the government’s integrity and described it as irresponsible and ‘rubbish’. He said the government should take action against Asli if it failed to retract the report; that Asli should also admit the report was wrong to prevent a polemic that would affect racial unity. He further said: ‘The report is rubbish and cannot be used. As a Malay, I am angry and I think it was done with malice. The report may have an agenda that aims at forming a polemic among those who believe the report to be true. They will definitely blame the government for revealing the wrong facts’. The above was quoted from an article in Malaysiakini. What it amounts to is like swearing, 'In god I shall tell not the truth and anything but the truth.'

another comedy

Mahathir attacked the Asli finding which made nonsense of his past positions and his son quickly came out to retrieve the report as erroroneous. Where is the error? It is just a different report using different criteria and assumptions. And to insist that the bumi control of the national wealth is stuck at 18% is not only misleading but also confirms that the bumi are simply backward or with below par intelligence. For after more than 35 years of affirmative actions and unequal opportunities they are still unable to improve their lot. Isn't this depressing? What are they telling the world?

april fool on oct 9!

Now this could be the biggest joke of the 21st century. UN and the Americans all hopping mad about the North Korean nuclear test and threatening sanctions and punitive measures only to discover that the test was the result of an earthquake which the North Korean knew and pull it off as a nuclear test. How the world was made to look silly by a North Korean trick! This is really unimaginable. Classic North Koreans.

what it costs an average guy to live here

Let me paint in broadbrush of what an average hardlander of 25 years will need to live in Singapore against what he earns in the next 40 years of his life. I prefer the word hardlander than heartlander for obvious reasons. Assuming a nett income of $2000 plus bonus or $30k per annum. Total income for 40 years $1.2 mil What he needs to spend. 1. 4 room flat ($250k plus interest) $500k 2. Monthly household expenses($1k pm) $480k 3. Personal expenses($300 pm) $144k 4. 1 child up to self supporting $150k These 4 items alone will wipe out all his income. Forget about owning a car. And there are many other expenses and social obligations to take care of. As a hardlander, his increment is not going to be substantial to offset the constant increase in cost of living. So he will, for his whole life, living from hand to mouth, at $2000 nett income.

an american comedy

Ever since the North Korea detonated that device, I was all in stitches. I could not believe my ears to hear all the jokes that came after this incident. The first came from Hill, from the US State Department. He said that even if the North Koreans have tested a nuclear device, the US will not recognise the North Koreans as a nuclear power. So? Does it mean that if the US refused to recognise a nuclear power, that power is not a nuclear power or no longer exists? I can't believe this can come out from a senior state official? The next big laugh was the admission that despite all the satellite technology, all the monitoring stations, all the intelligence gathering, all the leading edge technology, the West did not have a clue if it was a nuclear bomb or just a lot of TNT! You mean that they did not know what the hell hits them? The best joke came from the North Koreans. They literally have the US by their balls. The North Koreans have announced that if the US is not coming back to the negotiating table, they are going to test fire a nuclear tipped missiles! Wow! How could they say that and do it? The interesting thing now is that the US has no answers to the North Koreans' antics and negotiating tactics. What's next Uncle Sam? They claimed to have all contingencies thought out but the North Koreans seem to be one step ahead of them. This latest threat of another test is something the US very likely did not think of. And John Bolton, the US Ambassador at the UN, quickly pronounced that 'This is the way North Korea typically negotiates - by threats and intimidations.' What Bolton is saying is that the US never threatens or intimidates anyone or even the North Koreans! What a joke! I can't stop laughing. It is hilarious. And he added another one, that this is a standoff 'between North Korea and the rest of the world'. Really? Which world is he referring to? I have never feel the slightest threat from North Korea. I am just enjoying the drama and excitement of how one party, a big bully, trying to impose its will on a smaller nation and expect everyone to dance to its tune. This is great fun.

bushism, a new world religion

What is Bushism? It goes something like this...Whoever believes in me shall be my friend forever. The little other details include creating lies and the believers must believe without questioning, and telling the believers not to believe in facts and pretend that they are not true. Take an example, by today, almost anything that needs to be known about the lies that Saddam Hussein possessed WMD have been revealed. There is no WMD and the intelligence reports were fabricated to justify the invasion of Iraq. Another example is the detonation of a nuclear device by North Korea. The American State Department said they would not recognise North Korea as a nuclear power. So North Korea is not a nuclear power. So Bushism believers will believe that Saddam Hussein possesses WMD and North Korea is not a nuclear power. Bushism is attractive as it means one is a friend of a new god and is blessed. But the most dangerous part of this belief is that many people around the world really believe that Saddam Hussein did possess WMD and the intelligence reports on it were true. Also, North Korea is not a nuclear power so does not possess any nuclear weapons. And as long as the believers blindly believe in what they are told to believe, everyone is happy, especially this new god.

unreplied postings

hi all, my apologies for not replying to some posts which i have read in my email. i tried locating them in the blog but could not find any traces of them. if i can find them i will respond to them. this is the limitation of a blog unlike the forum format. you are all encouraged to post at my www.redbeanforum.com for easy referencing. flipping through the older posts to find a response in the blog is very tedious. regards

'ignorant fools' according to eliza ng lai kuan

Religion and religious understanding and tolerance is in the limelight again. And this has prompted a reader, Eliza Ng Lai Kuan to write a letter to the Today paper chastising every 'ignorant Singaporeans' for not knowing the different religious dates and meanings of the different believers. In her view, it is totally unacceptable for people living in a multi cultural and multi racial country not to know about the culture, religion and practices of other races. Could they be or should they be? The schools are supposed to teach these subjects. There are the regular national education programmes and campaigns organised at national level. But the understanding is still very poor. Blame the people! Are we asking too much? All the children are already struggling to keep up with their exams, would they have time to memorise all the different aspects of religions and cultures that they have no interest in? Lets be realistic, many people will just want to live their own lives without a care of how other people live their lives. It may be a national objective to educate everyone in these issues, but many just do not have the time, the capacity, the memory or the interest to want to know them. How many people really know or want to know or bother to know?

Sometimes back I wrote about the numerous complains of people being beaten up on the streets and that the police could not apprehend the one who caused hurt to the victims. The case of the doctor being beaten up is still vivid probably in everyone's mind. This morning I read another case of a boy being beaten up quite badly and the same response came from the police when his parent made a complain. The injury was not serious enough, ie 'no loss of life or limb' as reported in the Today paper, thus it is a non seizable offence. Is it ok now to go around beating whoever one does not like? Non seizable offence and the police cannot do anything. Just make sure the injury is not serious enough. Is there anything wrong or inadequate with our laws or is it a case of implementation? I am going to stay indoors from now on, to be safe. I am quoting this incident from a letter by a Zarina Jaffar in the Today paper.

the world of bullies

The world of bullies The danger of this world turning into a hell hole of fire is to see how national leaders behave like neighbourhood bullies. Hit them hard if they cross the line. That is what they are going to do to the North Koreans. Diplomacy is now club carrying. The bigger the club the better, and the one who is ready to use it carries the biggest voice. Can the world really strike at North Korea with military force? Is sanction and provocative punitive measures effective solutions to the drum up crisis? Is the world expecting the North Koreans to be running around threatening every other nation? The North Koreans simply did not have the means and neither the intention. Why are all the silly men behaving like cavemens. All geared up and ready for a fight? The Koreans, both North and South, have no history of attacking another country. The Nations that have such experiences and are likely to do it are the countries that are rounding up the world to hit out at the Koreans. The Americans and the Japanese are infamous for conducting wars and invading other countries. And they are at it again, calling on the world to do it in North Korea. Is diplomacy and sensibilities dead?

myth 75

'Many Singaporeans are having a hard time' Despite some of the posts made here that Singaporeans are not doing well, not competitive, some trying to make ends meet, Singaporeans are actually, mostly, quite wealthy. A simple means of explaining this conclusion is to use the affordability formula. At the top, Singaporeans can afford some of the most expensive housing and cars. That will surely qualifies the rich Singaporeans as very well off. At the lower end, Singaporeans also can afford almost anything, even the much complained public transport system, public health, education, public housing etc. All these are priced according to the affordability formula which has proven that Singaporeans can afford them. And there will be small increases every now and then based on affordability. And the decision is made only when Singaporeans are found to be able to afford them. So when the next round of increases come about, don't worry, the Singaporeans can afford them. So, who says Singaporeans are poor or in financial trouble when they can afford so many good things, the best education system, the best medical and health care, the best transport system, housing, etc etc. It is a myth that Singaporeans are having a tough time. At the worst, they can opt to go for cheaper foreign brides and cheaper jobs overseas. Only when it is officially announced that Singaporeans cannot afford to pay for them then it may be reasonable to say Singaporeans are having problems.

the east asian nuclear club

While the cry for intervention and war against North Korea is being hyped by the Americans for their own good reasons, the East Asian countries know that it is for their own good that war should never occur in their soil. Any modern war involving big regional powers is going to be very devastating and the consequences are unthinkable. Let their leaders be wise enough and not be led by the Americans into a suicidal war among themselves. The confirmation by North Korea that it has successfully conducted an underground nuclear test today has seen calls for Japan, South Korea and even Taiwan to go nuclear. This arms race is going to increase the risk for Japan. Balancing against a North Korea is bad enough. If Japan goes nuclear, it cannot stop South Korea from doing so. Taiwan is either the dark horse or the joker in the pack. If all takes the nuclear road, Japan will now have to grapple with a more complicated situation as all the other countries, including Taiwan, are potential enemies of Japan. A nuclear North Korea, South Korea, and Taiwan will give Japan a big headache. The only beneficiary in this nuclear stand off is North Korea. The Japanese and South Koreans and the Chinese, must find a solution to placate the North Koreas even to increase aid to the North against the American provocative position. War is not an option. The carrot is the only sensible alternative and collectively they need to make an offer that the North Koreans find it difficult to resist. The Americans can continue to beat their war drums. The East Asian states must find an amicable peaceful solution for their own future.

imported inflation?

1970 A fresh graduate started at $1,000. Cpf 6%. Take home pay $940. Mother got $200. $400 went to car and maintenance. Left with $340. Still a lot of money then to swing around. 2006 Fresh graduate gets $2000/$2800. CPF 20%. Take home pay $1,600/$2,240. Mother gets $400. Balance $1,200/$1,840. Owning a car will be down $1,200 average a month. ($500 for instalment, Insurance and road tax $120, petrol $400, parking and ERP $180). For those earning $2,000, forget about owning a car. For those earning $2,800, $640 left. $640 today is nothing compare to $340 in 1970. Are we better off? Oh imported inflation? ARF and road tax are not imported inflation. So is insurance which is pegged to the high price of a car due to taxes. ERP and parking are not imported inflation. Even petrol is not all imported inflation if the tax element is lower. Singaporeans should not think that by increasing their wages, they are better off. The wage increase is only meaningful to people who are earning $100K or $1 mil annually. To these people, 10% increment means $10K or $100K increment. To those earning $30K annually, it is only $3K, barely enough to cover the rising cost of living. It is a case of piling at the top of the heap and pinching at the bottom. And the conventional wisdom today is that this is a good thing, a natural thing caused by globalisation.

how not to tell your neighbour off?

I was in the lift with this old man neighbour. Once in the lift he blared out at the haze problem and was in total disgust about how a neighbouring country could be so irresponsible, and thoughtless. We were so close, and anything they do could affect us. The burning will send the haze to us and adversely affecting us. I nodded in full agreement. Neigbours must be mindful of what they are doing and how it would affect their neighbours. So I told him once I had this thoughtless neighbours who would cook in the corridor during a festival or dry his laundry there as well. The smell was unbearable. Neighbours have to be discipline and not to do unpleasant things to neighbours or the neighbour would have no choice but to tell them off. This part I did not say as it will be too blatantly direct. I have told this neighbour off twice. He got this bad habit of stuffing a small white stick into his mouth and it would be stucked there, spraying smelly smokes into the air. And he would do that inside the lift and the lift would smell for the next few hours. Now whenever he sees me he will stub it out. But when I am not around, he will do the same and the smell in the lift will not lie. Told him off a second time about the cigarette butts at the lift lobby. He was the obvious culprit. His defence was that the cleaners will come and sweep. Anyway, to him, the lobby is clean enough compare to other HDB lobbies. He was annoyed by my airing of displeasure. At least there is no cigarette butt around since then. This is the selfish nature of man. For his own convenience he would do it. But when others did it to him, he will complain. But the haze is an international thing. It is the act of a collective group of people and with a govt that is supposed to regulate such activities and good neighbourliness.

myth 74

'The govt failed to deliver a Swiss standard of living' Many have accused the govt of failing to live up to its promise to give the people a Swiss standard of living. But how fair is this criticism? Some may not yet attain this high standard of living. And it is expected that some will never reach there. The less able must be expected to live and feed on less. The widening income gap is only a natural and uncontrollable state of things caused by globalisation. The people must be realistic and cannot expect everyone to reach the Swiss standard of living in such a short time. Some will get there first and some later. One day all will get there. As of today, many who used to live in HDB flats have already move into huge bungalows and have enough fortune to last at least 5 generations without having to work. And all because of the govt and all the good policies to raise the standard of living of its people. The govt has achieved what it set out to do, at least partially. This is telling the whole truth, the whole picture and not half truth. Telling half truth is to blame the govt for not doing what it promised. This myth that the govt has failed has to be debunked. The govt has made it happened to many Singaporeans to attain the Swiss standard of living, even surpassing it.

when your neighbour decides to poison you

When your neighbour started to do his/her cooking outside the house or flat, or when they decided to smoke outside, and let all the smell, smoke, ashes into your home, what shall you do? When after reminders and reminders of the health risks that your neighbour is subjecting you and your family to, and all your neighbour says is that he/she has done its best. Nothing else can be done and the smoke, smell and ashes will still get into your home and you just have to live with it.... Bring in George Bush. ASEAN needs a George Bush to mean business when your neighbour only cares about his/her own selfish interest. ASEAN need to have a strike force and move into Indonesia, whether it likes it or not, and douse out the fire. In times like this, George Bush is a most welcome hero.

the hypocrisy of asean

How far will ASEAN walk down the road of hypocrisy? After putting so much pressure on Myanmar to respect human rights and democratic processes and institutions, ASEAN did not breathe a single word about the coup in Thailand which brought down a democratically elected govt. And all the ASEAN leaders quickly sent congratulatory messages to the new govt installed by the military junta. How coup ASEAN stand up to face the world and said it is defending the democratic institution? Myanmar should now be applauded as the role model of what ASEAN countries should be, ruled by the military. With Thailand now another military regime, who is next? Phillippines, Indonesia,...? Singapore will become another military regime if the opposition will to win the election. It will be exciting to see ASEAN as an association of military run countries.

the hip hop controversy

Some younger MPs are attempting to parade themselves during the 2007 Ching gay procession doing hip hop. I don't know what that is. Must be something the young is doing. To be hip, to be cool and hopping around. Why is a simple fun activity generating so much controversies? Why can't young people have fun? Oh, they are MPs and are expected to be like MPs, speak up in Parliament for the interests of their constituents. Doing hip hop, now... is that what they are paid to do? There are all kinds of perceptions and expectations by the people, all kinds of people. What is acceptable to one is not necessarily acceptable to another. What a young MP thinks is a great idea may be a great idea to some but there will also be some who think otherwise. The volume of remarks in cyberspace and MSM is still flooding in, from the complimentary to the outright rejection and cynicism. But that is what being in the limelight all about. One stands out to be recognised and will receive all the accolades and all the rotten eggs. Not everyone sees things in the same way. What is good to you is not necessary good to other people. What is affordable to you is not necesarily affordable to other people. Hip hop is good to these young MPs but some will not agree. The moral of the story is that when they are in Parliament and thinking and speaking what is good for the people, please check with the people first.

myth 73

'The truth of half truths and truths in Cyberspace/MSM' Cyberspace has been accused by the MSM as something like the twilight zone, harbouring anything but truth. And many proclaimed truths are actually half truths. Truth can only be found in the MSM, spoken by honourable and reputable people in reputable publications written by professionals. Do I need to say anything further? A cup is half full, so I say. The other party say no it is half empty. So who is telling the truth? The Emperor is not wearing anything, so say Cyberspace. The MSM sees the same thing but not saying anything? Who is telling the truth or half truth? If Cyberspace talks about the poorer 20% of the population and MSM brags about the good life of the top 20% of the population, who is telling the truth and who is telling half truth? If Cyberspace cries out for the people who find that public transport fare is expensive, and MSM quoted comparative figures of New York, London and Hongkong and concluded that our fares are cheap, who is telling the truth and who is telling half truth? Is Cyberspace only spreading half truths and MSM only telling the whole truth?

mine is mine, yours also mine

When the NEP was first conceived, its target was for the bumiputras to own 30% of the nation's wealth. How this was defined was still as hazy as the Indonesian haze today. A figure of 30% Malay ownership by 2020 is now the official target. But 30% Malay ownership of what? The official govt figure is that the Malays only owned 18.9% and this is defined as all the 600,000 registered companies. An independent study by Asli came out with a 45% ownership. And quoting this figure is even seen as being irresponsible by Badawi. What has in fact been the case is that Malay ownership of GLCs, which are the meaty companies as they were huge, are not considered as Malay ownership in the bumiputra definition of the word. The official bumiputra definition of Malay ownership is that what is mine is mine and not counted. What belongs to the non bumis only can be counted. Jusr consider all the stocks in the KLSE alone, assuming that the GLCs eventually grow to 50% of the size of the stockmarket, it is still counted as zero Malay ownership. So when they achieved 30% of the balance 50% of non bumi ownership, they would in fact controlled 65% of all the stock value in the stock market. To think that mathematics is not their forte, they seemed to be able to count everything to their advantage. Or is this modern maths? Malay ownership means what is mine is mine and what is yours is 30% mine. Using this bumi definition, the 2020 target of 30% ownership is unlikely to be reached till the end of time as any company that is big enough could be bought over and become GLCs. The non bumis will be left with all the small and medium companies. And they are not marginalised.

myth 72

'Singaporeans are great pretenders' ' Hey zebra, why are you wearing pyjamas?' The zebra was angry and said the remark was uncalled for. And as more zebras got agitated, they started to demand for an apology. But many, including Singaporeans will agree with the zebra that they are not wearing pyjamas. The issue is how many believe what they said openly and what they actually believe but not saying? How could one make out of people who would not blink their eyes and tell you that the zebra did not wear pyjamas? The statement that Singaporeans are great pretenders is unlikely to be a myth. Neither are they stupid. Many are just not saying what they really know and believe. It is more a case of no point saying it or the time is not ripe to say it. And for those who are cornered to say something, their response is obvious. The zebra is not wearing pyjamas. And they will swear in court to say the same thing, for pragmatic reasons.

deception is good for the soul

Deception is good for the soul. NUS is now ranked 19th among the great universities in the world by Times. Everyone is happy. NUS is now a great university. No body bothers to question the criteria that put NUS up there. Only those that find the criteria rather silly would dismiss the findings as another crap. And Newsweek came out with a different set of criteria and the ranking were all different. The accounts people were very good at juggling numbers and creative accounting to make a company looks good. Academics can be equally brilliant to set their own criteria to make themselves look good. I too can set up a set of criteria to make NUS Number One. As long as NUS is Number One, that is all people want to know. NUS can even be Number One in the Guinness Book of World Record or in Sotong's Book of World Best, doesn't matter. NUS is Number One. Now the reality. Even if today NUS is ranked Number One and Cambridge or Harvard are ranked 50th and 51st, where would students choose to study? Or would people care that there is a NUS that is ranked Number One?

myth 71

'Singapore is short of talents' How can that be? I think no where can one find so many talents congregated in a small piece of land. And the kinds of talents we have, all multi skill and multi talented, will put many foreign talents to shame. Our talents can be political leaders, ceos, singers, dancers, sports champions etc all rolled into one. And they all performed multi taskings wearing 10 or 20 hats. Whew! They probably work 25 hours a day.

feelings of relative wellness

Feelings of relative wellness Singaporean parents are the most stressed by our education system. Not that they have to sit for the exams. It is the social stigma that they have to live with and be confronted by the daily comparisons of why their children are not in the Gifted Programme or in the top schools, or why they are in neighbourhood schools, normal stream or last in class. How could they bear such labels being hanged over their Gucci and Versace apparel and accessories? How could they say their children are in Longkang Besar Sec School? In earlier days, schools were ranked in a simple order of goodness. Then you have the two Raffles, ACS, SJI, the Convents etc hogging the limelight at the top. And any children that are not in the top 10 schools were considered non conversation topics. Better not to be seen or heard. And when newer concepts like SAP Schools and Independent Schools came about, a different kind of orientation of the mind map took form. Now children must be in such institutions to be recognized as good students, to give pride to their deserving parents. Under these two systems, only a small group of students could do their parents proud as our mind can only accommodate about 10 digits, the top ten. Even being top ten in class will be a good thing to talk about though the child is not from a fine school. Any bigger number is difficult to comprehend. Naturally not many parents could be found to be happy. All kinds of ranking that defines what or who is good or better will make those not so good feel lousy. Quite a normal response. So when the SAP and Independent Schools were taken out of the ranking list, more parents were made happier as another 10 new schools made it to the top of the packing order. Needless to say, parents of those in SAP and Independent Schools were still be as elated as ever. The next great thing that the Ministry came up with is the banding system. There are now 9 bands for the Special/Express Stream and four for the Normal Stream. And the beauty of this system is that 6 schools can be in one band. How would this make parents happier? With only 9 bands, we cannot expect parents to look at the top ten anymore. A little adjustment to read the top 3 or 4 bands as good schools will suffice. Bravo! Another 24 (6 x 4 bands) schools will now be socially acceptable as good schools. And in total, including all the SAP, Independent and Integrated Programme Schools, there will now be 30 to 40 that will make parents feel good instead of just 10 in the past. The Ministry could go on and add more schools to make parents feel more secure and less traumatised. One area is the sports or arts and music schools. Though these may not be top schools, they could do with a little rebranding. Instead of simply calling them sports or arts schools, call them Gifted Schools for special talents. Their students will then be recognized as talents, or students from Gifted Schools. There could also be schools like Eton or Schools for the Gentry Class to churn out young ladies and gentlemen who can appreciate all the finer things in life instead of boring academic grades. Not everyone needs to work for a living. Creative packaging could mean lesser emigration, less stress and more babies.

my first article with the New Paper

Hi fellas, My New Paper article was scheduled for today but was held back because of some factual errors. I am trying to clarify the errors. Will see if it will ever see the light

the monkey pool

The Monkey Pool In this little pool of monkies of all odds and sizes, the biggest of the lot is the orang utan. They all play in the same pool and were quite happy for some time. Then god said the water level of the pool shall rise by one cm everyday. This is small enough a change that no one will feel any discomfort. And all the monkies agree and continue to play and be merry. Soon the water is half a metre high and some of the smaller monkies were having water up to their neck and screaming for help. And god is compassionate. He throws in a couple of life buoys and some manage to cling on to them. Those who could not get on eventually were unheard of as the water level went over their heads. And surely and steadily the water level rises a little bit everyday and more of the screaming were silenced, never to be heard again. The orang utans continue to enjoy their feast and make merry. They were at the top of the packing order and have no fear. They were more than a metre tall and many other monkies would have been swallowed by the water first. They never think their turn will come. While the old voices were silenced, a new vibrancy came to the pool as more bigger monkies come visiting. It is a lively place again, a lot of oomphs. But before long, big apes also come into the scene, bigger than the orang utans. Ah Meng is no longer the grand old dame. As time goes by, Ah Meng passes the scene through old age. He did not have the chance to see the pool being taken over by the big apes. No orang utans left. They too were not tall enough. Gobalisation, some shouted. No, it is Godbalisation, some argued. Whatever it is, the monkies are no longer around. What happened to them? God knows. Finally god explained. This is the game of the big apes, designed by the big apes to be in their favour. Little monkies have no place in such games of the big apes. Orang utans too were not big enough.

a message for the clowns

I was reading the comments coming out from the Malaysian Circus on the LKY apology. Many were still talking about LKY's comment that it was uncalled for, insensitive, unacceptable, inciting racial feelings etc. To these circus performers, the unpleasantness of such a remark is so obvious. That no leaders should be making such comments about another country is something so natural and comonsensical. Funny thing is that when Mahathir and Malaysian politicians were hurling such remarks at Singapore, none of them say anything. And many even joined in the chorus. Did they have mirrors in the Cabinet? What LKY has done is to tell the Malaysians plain and simple. Stop making such stupid remarks. His comments and apology are to set an example for them to take note. Such remarks are, like what the clowns suddenly realised, unpleasant, uncalled for, insensitive, provocative etc etc and must not be uttered. And whoever makes such remarks must be kicked in the arse and apologise. Would the clowns be jumping around if another of their dignified member shoot off such remarks again? Or would this be the closing of a chapter of passing silly remarks at each other? Did they get the message?

youth is in

In the past, MPs are chosen from a field of experienced, intelligent and wise men to look after the affairs of the people and country. Incorruptibility, honesty, strength of character, integrity etc were the qualities that were seen as important. Then other qualities were also added, like bi lingualism. Candidates are chosen from those who can speak another tongue other than English to reach out to more people. Later on a humble background is a badge of honour to be flashed around to show that the underdogs can also do well. Today, the most important quality is youth. To be able to connect with the young, to dance, to be hip, and to be cool are important qualities to be an MP. The future is theirs. They are the future guardians or owners of the nation. Starting them young is important. The younger the better. I would strongly suggest to the opposition parties to start looking at the kindergartens and nurseries to recruit their potential candidates. Never mind if they are still sucking their pacifiers. They need to reach out to all the people, to the very young as well. And then they can brag about having the youngest MP in parliament. Maybe getting one from the kindergarten will sure make great news.

myth 70

'The blind cannot see' This is what everyone thinks so, that the blind cannot see. It must be or else we won't call them blind. But if one is to observe the designing of the guides for the blind in MRT stations or in shopping centres, and then try to imagine how the blind go about getting from one place to another, one cannot help but to think that the blind are not so blind. For instance the blind will be able to find their way to the MRT stations without any guides. So they must be able to see in a way. But once they are in the stations, they became blind and needed the guide to help them along, to the ticketing gates, to the lifts and to the trains. Without the guides they definitely cannot find their way around. And when they get to the platforms, they can see again. The whole platform of 50 metres length are lined with guides so that they can walk from one end to another to choose which train cabin to get in. Presumably they can see which one is empty or more comfortable. Or they can walk around enjoying the scenery high above ground level on the platform. Now, would I be made to believe that they are blind and cannot see?

are public transport companies private companies?

Cindy Lim, Press Secretary to the Minister of Transport wrote a letter to the Straits Times forum explaining why a forumer's allegation against the transport companies were wrong. And she went on to justify the come of the transport companies as healthy and not excessive. I am wondering why aren't the transport companies be there explaining for themselves and why the Transport Ministry thinks it is its responsibility to do so. Aren't the transport companies private companies, or are they govt companies?

spend to look good and feel good

As I approached a MRT station I was greeted by lines of sparkling metallic studs on the floor, nicely arranged in neat rows. With a little curiosity I followed all the way to the lift and out of the lift. And on both sides of the platform, two equally brilliant rows of studs ran across the whole length of the platform. Very well designed and a visual treat. These are aids for the blind to allow them to get to the station platform. And by stretching it across the whole platform, the blind could walk from one end to the other to enjoy the beautiful sight, guided by the studs. Very thoughtful. I am glad that we are putting in great efforts to help our physically handicaps. But I thought they could do a little more. The studs only start at the station floor. How could the blind get all the way from their homes to the station without the studs? It would be better if the studs were laid all the way to the flats or houses, through overhead bridges, stairways, underpass etc. That would make it more convenient, and would have looked more caring. Then we will be more deserving of a first world nation, looking good and feeling good. And those car parks that provided only one parking lot for the invalid drivers should change their mindsets and provide more. One is too miserly. Maybe twenty or more. As our population ages, we can forsee that in the future there will be more wheelchairs and blind people on the road. We must prepare for a nation of cripples and the sightless. What we are doing is not enough. Maybe 20% of the population, statistically will need assistance to travel around to see the beautiful gardens, parks and cities, and shopping and eating. We must do more to prepare for a nation of people that cannot see and walk but would like to see and travel around. Seriously, I am for all the assistance we can do to help those who need help. But throwing away money unnecessarily to look good is not the way to go.

open apology from lky

LKY has officially replied to Badawi, something which a gentleman like Badawi deserved. I refresh my memory but could not recall Badawi making any insinuations or racial remarks about Singapore in the past, unlike his predecessor. It would be unlikely for LKY to do so if it was Mahathir making the demand. For many years, LKY has been quite reticent about the racial slurs of Mahathir and his ministers. During that period, attacking Singapore on such grounds is the implied norm. Every minister worth to be in the good book of Mahathir must utter something to this effect to cut his teeth, so to speak. What did Singapore do? Explain, explain and explain. None feel it right or up to it to take on such comments headon, probably to avoid further deterioration of relations. Even LKY refused to be dragged in. But a closure must be made to this unpleasant way to conduct interstate relations, pointing an accusing finger across borders to score political points. Hopefully, with this letter of open apology coming from LKY, the Malaysian side could bury this episode and not to reinvent more new attacks in the future. It takes two parties to clap. And if one party insists to continue, it would seem that the Singapore side will now respond more robustly by the ministers instead of keeping quiet and avoiding the issue. One just can't keep folding his arms and receive all the blows.

a remarkable obituary

Remarkable Obituary Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Mr. Common Sense. Mr. Sense had been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape. He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as knowing when to come in out of the rain, why the early bird gets the worm and that life isn't always fair. Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don't spend more than you earn) and reliable parenting strategies (adults, not kids, are in charge). His health began to rapidly deteriorate when well intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of a six-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition. Mr. Sense declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer aspirin to a student, but could not inform the parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion. Finally, Common Sense lost the will to live as the Ten Commandments became contraband, churches became businesses, and criminals received better treatment than their victims. Common Sense finally gave up the ghost after a woman failed to realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot, she spilled a bit in her lap, and was awarded a huge financial settlement. Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents, Truth and Trust; his wife, Discretion; his daughter, Responsibility; and his son, Reason. He is survived by two stepbrothers; My Rights and I'm a Whiner. Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone. If you still remember him, pass this on; if not, join the majority and do nothing. I received this in an email and is passing it on.

myth 69

'A govt must look after its citizen first' This is the common practice and first principle of all govt. And that is where most govt has got it wrong and got into trouble. Looking after the interest of its citizens is very important but the question is how? Many went to the extent of protecting their citizens and driving away investors. There are countries which demanded that a percentage of the shares of the company must be owned by the citizens or else no investment. In this area, Singapore can teach the world a lesson. The trick is to take care of foreigners and their investments first, including providing them with jobs. The foreign investments will bring in more jobs like the IRs. That is quite clear. It is the second part, providing jobs to foreigners that many cannot see the values from it. With more foreigners here, they will consume our services like housing, transportation, medical, schooling etc. They also eat, sleep and play and spend money here. And all these provide employment and jobs for Singaporeans. Treat foreign workers well and they will bring prosperity to the people. The benefits will be filtered down to Singaporeans at the lower levels, or downstream. Keep the foreigners out and Singapore's economy will suffer and our economic progress will slow down. The conventional wisdom of barring foreigners from our shore must be changed. We must welcome foreigners.

the wheel is turning

Our parents and grandparents and their parents came to this island at a time when there were turmoil in their home countries, when getting a job was difficult. Many foreigners, maids, construction and shipyard workers or even white collar workers are here for the same reasons. Perhaps more, where they could earn more here than at home. Our young and old people are told to compete for jobs here with foreigners. And if they are unable, go overseas. Looks like the cycle is now reversed. Singaporeans are finding it difficulty to get a job at home and have to move out to find jobs to feed themselves. The cycle is being repeated but in a different direction. I have a very funny feeling that things are not right. Just cannot put a finger on what is really wrong? I don't think anyone can. No one believe that there is a problem.

a national iconic drink

Motivating people is very important. Other than pictures we have many icons to remind people of our country and its greatness. We even have a drink with the country's name attached, the Singapore Sling. This morning I discovered a more appropriate and wholsome drink that we can call it our own, maybe a national icon, instead of the Sling that will get one a bit high for not so good reasons. This drink is brewed from natural herbs, aids digestion and blood circulation, and always good for health. It sure gets the blood pressure circulating and boiling and will improve the general well being if done regularly. It is called Youmeisu. Just kidding.

corporate wayang

There were many letters to forums calling for a review of the cost of public transport after the brilliant idea of season pass was conceived. Never mind that it was nothing new and has been adopted in the more developed countries all over the world. However, from the official quarter, it was a deafening silence. No one is willing to risk his neck to say anything. It must have been seen as unwise to do so. All the champions of the people must know that some things can be championed, some cannot. Singapore is indeed a corporate state. Everything is corporate, even culture and politics. And everyone is playing the role in a corporate wayang. Wait for the signal and see who says what. Then take the cue and speak loudly or hide in a corner, don't say anything. And nothing else will be spoken about a comprehensive season pass that will really benefit the lower income group, not unless someone who calls the shot, or of a renowned standing comes out and say something. This is the realpolitik of Singapore.

asean, a 3rd world grouping

An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. A primeval way to justice. We take it unkindly when someone said something bad about us. How to return the courtesy? Beat him up or kill him? Or we take the modern and civil way of reasoning it out with him, or take him to court. In the political process, the trademark of a stable and developed nation is the peaceful and orderly way of transferring political power or office. A president or prime minister departed and give way to his successor through a general election or a party election according to an agreed time scale. The president or prime minister could be naughty or crazy, but he could only be removed legally either through an impeachment or being voted out of office. There are other cruder forms of doing this, revolution, assasination, mass demonstration, or a military coup. When these methods are used, the normal legal procedures are cast aside. And such methods are normally adopted by third world countries, rich or poor. The use of extra legal processes or the thought of a military coup is a manifestation of the people's primeval instinct. ASEAN is an outstanding example of countries that are still far from political maturity. Myanmar is still under a military junta. Thailand just coup its popularly elected prime minister. The Philippines' president could be deposed by another coup anytime. Indonesia is country where the military is still very strong, like a dormant volcano. The Indochinese states are too new to form any judgement while Brunei is a kingdom. The most mature country within ASEAN in terms of a military that does not see its role in interferring with the domestic political process is Malaysia. The military has accepted the same role as those of the British, its predecessor. It is to defend the nation from external threat and not meddling with internal politics. You don't hear the military men edging to remove a prime minister or govt. Singapore was perceived as the most developed of all the ASEAN countries and a first world country in all aspects until the latest suggestion that the military will step in when things are not going right. That is the hallmark of a third world country. When military intervention is seen as a logical option, it only shows that we are still very far from being a first world political system.

constitutional monarchy is good for singapore

The Thai military coup could be the harbinger of a political change in Thailand. It is the first time that the king played a key role in engineering the removal of a popularly elected PM on drum up charges of corruption. It is so easy to prove such accusations on anyone in power, including kings and presidents, as people in such positions are often in compromising positions because of what they are. There will be many charges of excesses which can easily be proven. What may trigger off a backlash is the increasing awareness of the farmers of the political process. With higher education, the people will start thinking. Why should the land belong to the king and not to the people? Will this lead Thailand towards a republic? On the contrary, the politicisation of Singaporeans could go the other way. All signs point favourably towards a constitutional monarchy. How so? The majority of Singaporeans are of Chinese origin, steeped in Confucianist thinking that runs deep in their blood without them knowing. For several centuries, the Chinese fear authority. On the positive side, they become very discipline and easily led. On the negative side, they become very submissive and easily controlled. Or as proven in this region, they become very compliant even in the face of adversities and abuses. When there is a strong and virtuous leader, the Chinese will become a very powerful and organised force for progress and development, like what China has become. But when the leader is a crook or incompetent, the whole population will suffered in silence. They could not stand up to remove the leader, and thus be led or misled to their own demise. In a hypothetical case, if tomorrow a very powerful personality emerged and claimed to have the mandate of heaven to rule Singapore, like Yuan Shi Kai did in China, the people will obediently go along. Such a personality could instal himself as the next monarch, a constitutional monarch quite easily. And the Chinese population will accept it in acquiscience. No protest or protest feebly. But such a system may be good for Singapore. Under Confucianist ideology, the people are told to accept their stations in life. The monarch and elite deserve to be where they are and live a life of plenty. The poor farmers and peasants believe that life for them is to remain as good peasants and farmers. And if they have to toil for less, they are still expected to be contented with that. In the current context, the political elite will be very happy with such mindless mass that will quietly lead their lives in poverty. The compliant mass will resign to their fate and will not voice out about lack of opportunities or a widening income gap. Neither will they challenge the authority. Society will be at peace. The top and bottom are all happy to live their separate lives in separate worlds. See, a constitutional monarchy with a compliant people can save the country so many problems. Lim Swee Say need not work so hard to appease the demands of the unions. They know their station in life.

looking for chorus boys

I am still waiting for those people who proclaimed loudly that they are the champions of the poorer people to come forward and say something regarding a season pass that can benefit the people as well as the transport companies. It is better that they stand up and speak about it now than to wait for Wei Ling to say it and then come forward to sing in chorus, yes, yes, good idea! Wei Ling is only a medical doctor, not someone whose main preoccupation is to look after the general welfare of the people. We have heard a lot of big talks during the general elections. Lets see if people will now act on what they said and uplift the less fortunate of the society to a more bearable existence. And no, they don't have to provide giveaways and ask people to come forward to beg for them. All they need now is to take a serious look at the season pass concept and make it best for the people. And no need to crack their heads too. It is nothing new. All the merits and misgivings have been trashed out by other great minds long ago. Just borrow the idea and make it work, really work for the people. Now am I asking for too much?