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The Straits Times
07 April 2015
Forum Page
Ways a different S'pore needs to stay the same
THERE is no doubt in my mind that Singapore will not be the same, ever again ("What's next for Singapore after Lee Kuan Yew?"; last Saturday).
I am certain, too, that there will be changes that Singaporeans will see and experience in due course.
Much as change can sometimes be for the good, there are at least three fundamental things that I hope will not change, as the risks can be detrimental to Singapore's continued success.
Having benefited personally from the late Mr Lee's vision, hard work, focus and dedication to the well-being of Singapore and Singaporeans, I hope that our government will not change.
The challenge now is for Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his colleagues to continue to work together as a cohesive team.
It is unlikely that everyone will always share the same views and beliefs. However, what is imperative is for everyone to rally and support the decision of the majority. To stay as one is crucial for the continued success of Singapore.
As human resource is one of Singapore's key resources, the drive to create a workforce that is focused more on acquiring a portfolio of deep skills must continue. Together with this thrust, I hope that the Government's efforts to promote lifelong employability and relevancy will continue unabated.
Policies and legislation (if necessary, and only as a final resort) on issues related to hiring discrimination, support for mothers intending to re-integrate into the working world, and meaningful employment for the physically challenged and those with special needs must continue to be a focus if we are to become an even more inclusive society.
The Education Ministry must continue to tweak and fine-tune our education system. My hope is that our future generation of students will undergo a much more holistic experience that will give them the platform to be even better and balanced adults, for in their minds and on their shoulders rests the future of Singapore.
I hope that students will get to learn and appreciate the late Mr Lee's lifelong struggles and hard work that have benefited not just Singapore and Singaporeans, but political leaders the world over. Making this learning a compulsory subject may be worth serious thought.
Singaporeans' behaviour during the week of mourning over Mr Lee's death has given me the assurance that Singaporeans have become a much more mature and graceful people.
This is a good testament to our cohesiveness and ability to come together as one people for the right causes.
Paul Heng
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