What about a Swede way to boost Singapore’s democracy? MM Lee Kuan Yew hinted at a recent dialogue that Singapore is reviewing its procreation policies. He revealed that possibly Singapore could be looking at the Swedish model. Read ST's A Swede way to boost Singapore's birth rate (July 11)Perhaps it is also appropriate and timely for the PAP regime to review its not-so-democratic democracy by looking at the Swede’s political model. All factors remaining constant, it is probably due to Swedish democratic environment, resulting in a multiplier effect which boosted its birth rates? Sweden’s parliament has 349 seats, of which 310 are ‘fixed seats’ in 20 constituencies and 39 members at a national level for ‘adjustment seats’. The latter is used to ensure that political parties have parliamentary representation proportional to their vote. Read about Swedish General Elections 2006 here.Of course each system will have its own limitations. Having said that, since our million-dollar salaried PAP ministers eventually found inspiration and good examples in the Swedish procreation model, so how about Swedish democracy for Singapore? Everly Brothers’ all I have to do is dream, subconsciously hums! Opposition (WP) – Key To Fortify Singapore’s Future One seldom equates Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew to that of a dooms day prophet. However it is conceivable why one is to do so, especially after reading Minister Mentor’s latest warnings to Singaporean voters.I am amused by MM Lee’s loop-sided perspective on this matter. We know the maxim ‘power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely’. In view of this maxim, it is the responsibility of every voter to ensure that a constitutional state must have healthy ‘check and balance’ mechanisms to wade off the dangers of absolute power corruption. Voting in more opposition members into Parliament is definitely one key mechanism.MM Lee argued that ‘When Singapore existence depends on extraordinary performance, better than our competitors, but that performance disappears because the system on which it is based is eroded, then we will lose everything’.On the other hand, it is precisely that Singapore’s existence depends on extraordinary performance, that Singapore must have a robust ‘check and balance’ system to ensure that our system on which our extraordinary performance is based, make ‘best decisions’. These decisions must be thoroughly debated upon, not undermined by any hegemonic political party that may choose to selfishly safeguard its partisan’s interests, possibly via its party whip over its members of parliament.For the record, it is not the intention of Singapore’s opposition, specifically the Workers’ Party to become Singapore’s government in the near or mid-future. As such, Singaporean voters can definitely vote in more opposition members without fears, contrary to MM Lee’s warnings.I was formerly amongst the majority of my fellow Singaporeans (66.66%), we were intoxicated by PAP’s propaganda, accepted their persuasive arguments and even voted readily for them. Read my earlier post - Introspective of Perspectives, 08 June 2008. Given my experience, it is now my duty, being an awakened one to urge my fellow Singaporeans out of PAP’s propaganda trance. Therefore Singaporeans must contemplate scenarios of excessiveness due to absolute power in a hegemonic one-party state. To prevent this, we must build up credible check and balances mechanisms in the highest decision making body in this land. What is the solution? The Workers’ Party is an established political party, with the immediate political agenda of smashing PAP’s political hegemony by achieving one or two GRC breakthroughs. Specifically Singaporean voters must deny the PAP by voting in the Opposition (WP), as a key to fortify Singapore’s future. News:http://sg.news.yahoo.com/afp/20080626/tap-singapore-politics-opposition-lee-06f3cb7.html Introspection of Perspectives 24th June 2008 will mark the commencement of my 8th year of political activism with WP. Typically as the anniversary date draws closer, I will make an introspection and contemplation on events that have happened over the past 12 months.One key episode this year that drew significant attention is the ‘Yaw-Shin-Leong-voted-for-Teo-Ho-Pin’ revelation. This revelation, in all my candidness and plain intent, has caused much discomfort amongst opposition supporters.This topic has somehow created a mini-public discourse. However, on retrospect, as one of the leaders in Singapore's political opposition, I ought to have weighed the considerations heavily prior to the revelation of my vote, avoiding the subsequent political tension that was created. In this aspect, I have gleaned an important political lesson.All along, my logic which I deployed on voting for PAP's Teo Ho Pin were mainly 'putting nation before cause', 'voting for the better candidate' and 'not opposing for the sake of opposing'. Contextually these are certainly valid principles which do hold merits in their own right. Yet three questions troubled me during this process of self-introspection. Firstly, 'Whether my rationalizations are too simplistic?' Secondly, 'Was my notional understanding of a 'better candidate' limited?' Thirdly, 'Why did I enter opposition politics in the first place?'Over a period of uninterrupted solitude, I pondered hard over these questions and arrived with the following conclusions: Being rational is certainly good. However rationalization simply based on rational politics and nation before cause may be too narrow and possibly eroded my idealism and belief system, which fuel the reason to support opposition politics in the first place. After speaking to a number of people and exploring what considerations people have when casting their vote, I realized that many people who voted for the Workers’ Party at the last GE had the same rationale I had to support rational politics and for the betterment of the nation. Their primary consideration is the need to have a balanced political system and a voice in Parliament. Many also believe in pluralism in politics as a necessary development in the future of Singapore. National interest weighed heavily in their decision.My notional understanding of a 'better candidate' from an ordinary sense which an individual voter will consider was inadequate from a political perspective. I realized that I have unwittingly allowed myself to immerse into PAP's qualitative benchmark quagmire, which is extremely elitist in outlook, designed and propagandized by the PAP regime with the resources it has as a government to entice voters. Hence, I humbly accept netizens’ criticisms that had voters in Ang Mo Kio GRC adopted a 'better candidate' benchmark, my team would not even come close securing 33.86% of the votes in the last GE.One of the main reasons why I entered opposition politics is to strive towards building up a parliamentary mechanism for credible check and balances. Concurrently it is my vision to wither the hegemonic rule of Singapore's one party state. Personal admiration and liking for Dr Teo Ho Pin aside, I have woken up from this matrix-like slumber. Voting for a candidate from the ruling regime based on my shallow personal liking and consideration had contravened the very ideals which I had originally entered oppositional politics for. It also contradicted our efforts in urging voters to value the choice provided by opposition candidates.To sum it up, to fellow Singaporeans who like myself voted for the PAP in the last GE, this is my message to you. Just as Dr Teo Ho Pin will not receive my vote in the next GE, let's vote in solidarity to deny the PAP. Turning Thirty Two ... Somewhat it got me contemplating the definitions of my existence thus far.My finite understanding of all things has created in me a deep thirst for wisdom. On the other hand my passion for life remains zealously plenty and wacko ideas far too many :)Not too strangely, along this journey some of my idealistic views have been coarsely blended, (hopefully refined) amidst practical realities. Heaven's willing, I prayed that may my next 31 years be even more mouldable than the one that has just passed.Cheerios 32! Cheerios life !Photo: Volunteering at HGCC's One Day Tour 2008 (1st June 2008) What is useful then? Responding to NCMP Sylvia Lim query on government's original projection that Inflation will ease later this year, Minister Lim Hng Kiang said that the impact of 2007's increase in GST should wear off after July. Responding to MP Low Thia Khiang's query if the government would consider cutting taxes for GST or petrol to ease pressure on Singapore, Minister Lim replied that the government should look for 'an array of tools or instruments with a medium-term outlook' instead. According to Minister Lim, adjusting GST rates to counter the 'short-term phenomena' of rising food and oil prices is 'not useful'. He added that Singapore 'cannot completely insulate ourselves' from global price hikes.Minister Lim's explanations are definitely insufficient. Any hike in GST is regressive, which has an effect on rising prices of raw imported materials, from flour, to diary produce to vegetables. This is evident, especially that now inflation has hit a new 26 year high of 7.5% last month. We cannot merely attribute rising food and oil prices as 'short-term phenomena' ? When I first started driving about 8 years ago, 1 litre of ULG 92 petrol cost about SGD1.10. Now 1 litre of ULG 92 petrol cost SGD2.15. How can the rise of oil prices over 8 years be considered as a 'short term phenomena'? Singapore businesses are facing the local challenge of increasing cost of doing business, eroding their bottom line. With our appreciating Sing dollar monetary policy, Singapore exporters will find its produce inevitably pricer vis-a-vis the currency exchange. To make it worse, global demand has also started to slow down directly due to an impending US recession.To assist fellow Singaporeans, our government must consider 'all array of tools or instruments with both short-term and medium term outlook' instead of ruling out on short-term tools. I hereby repeat WP's call to cut Singapore's GST and petrol taxes' rates. Conversations with Uncle Poon Uncle Poon (Mr Pong) is a 85 years old lift attendant. I had the opportunity to chat up with this former civil servant at a coffee shop in Ubi Ave 2 (Marine Parade GRC) over lunch. He is a healthy-looking and English speaking senior citizen, who has strong views about life, love and filial piety. He shared with me some interesting stories including one where he represented and successfully defended himself in court against a parking fine.I will hereby share one of Uncle Poon's stories how he successfully solved the mystery of the missing ducklings during the period of Japanese Occupation. According to him, one of his neighbor (Mr A) has 6 ducklings, one day Mr A found that 4 of his ducklings were missing. Mr A later found out that another of his neighbor (Mr B) has somewhat seemed to have increased his numbers of ducklings, but when confronted upon, Mr B denied stealing Mr A's ducklings.He was then called in to solve the conflict. In front of all his neighbors, Uncle Poon gathered all of Mr A's ducklings together with Mr B's ducklings. He then drove this enlarged pool of ducklings into the Mr B's duck pen, eventually all but 6 ducklings refused entry into the pen. Mr B was embarrassed and eventually apologized to Mr A. Uncle Poon shared that the reason why he is still working at 85 years old is because, when he was young, he did not opt for pension scheme but for CPF scheme instead. When I asked if he has any regret for not opting for the pension scheme, he cheerfully shared that most of his friends who opted for the pension scheme were no longer around, however he is! He also revealed to me proudly that he was a clerical administrator across various ministries from the 50s to 80s. I am of the view that Uncle Poon is a true pink pioneer Singaporean, who had contributed one way or another to our national development. I am also of the view that civil service pioneers like Uncle Poon truly deserves a mention and our recognition. It is especially appropriate, as we mark Public Service Week (14th - 20th May 2008) this week.Photo of Uncle Poon (With his kind permission) A Vote For The Other Side Last Sunday, during WP's walkabout at Nee Soon East SMC & Ang Mo Kio GRC. A party member shared with me about rumblings in a local Internet forum (Sammy Boy) that some forum participants were unable to reconcile with the fact that I voted for Teo Ho Pin in GE2006. This party member subsequently sent me the forum link here.I am of the view that it is a trait for humans to operate within the paradigms of subjectivity and objectivity. Personally, I do not believe in opposition for opposition's sake. In this regard, there is nothing inherently wrong for me to vote for an MP, regardless of his/ her partisan background, whom in my opinion is the better man who can better serve the interests of Singapore and my community (Bukit Panjang SMC). Consciously in so doing, I have raised my understanding on a required 'standard for parliamentary entry'. In another words, being a forefront partisan activist, myself am of the view that a particular candidate from the ruling regime deserves my vote rather than another from the opposition, this invariably reminded me that, the WP has to 'strive so much harder', 'offer so much more' and 'convince so much more' in order 'to get there'. Actually during GE06 itself, there were also some in WP who raised their eye brows when I shared with them that I will be voting for Teo Ho Pin. On polling day, one urged me that since the incumbent will win anyway I should perhaps 'spoil my vote' instead. However as a citizen of our constitutional state, I take my voting duty very seriously and will never waste my precious vote, unless the political circumstances really warrant it. The interesting question perhaps would be, if a WP candidate is to offer himself/ herself for election in the constituency I reside, will I vote for this WP candidate? Partisan considerations will certainly weigh heavily in my considerations. Having said that, ultimately this WP candidate has to convince me that he/ she has what it take to better serve the interests of our country and the constituents to win my vote. Efficacy of Activism Learning from a wise man, I was introduced to the concept of efficacy. Efficacy is the ability to produce a desired amount of an effect and is very different to the more commonly known concepts of effectiveness & efficiency. Efficacy calls for the doing of the ‘right thing’, at the ‘right time’, in the ‘right way’, with the ‘right motive’ and hence achieving the ‘right results’. Oppositional activism in Singapore is often questioned for its effectiveness and efficiency. There is much truth in such line of questioning. However it is more important to the cultivation of more efficacious activists, whom with the ‘right ideology’ and ‘right training’, will certainly do the ‘right thing’, at the ‘right time’, in the ‘right way’, with the ‘right motive and achieving the ‘right results’ for Singapore.With efficacy in place, effectiveness and efficiency falls in place automatically. Do you believe in the efficacy of opposition politics in Singapore? Email me at yawsl@wp.sg Response to Mr Seng Han Thong Press Release: (2nd May 2008)LABOUR DAY RELEASE – RESPONSE TO MR SENG HAN THONG We refer to Mr Seng Han Thong’s reported response to WP’s Labour Day press release. It seems that Mr Seng, a labour MP, has conveniently forgotten to address WP’s questions about his ex-boss Minister Lim Boon Heng's insensitive comments. Instead, he side-steps them by querying whether all employees of Hougang Town Council (HGTC) are Singaporeans. For the record, the staff of HGTC are all Singaporeans. However WP recognizes the contribution of foreign workers and is not against their employment. For instance, HGTC does not object to its contractors deploying foreign workers in the estate. The WP Labour day message raised three issues pertaining to workers in Singapore in view of the changing economic circumstances, the government policy on foreign manpower and the government's attitude towards the employment of foreigners. WP said, first, the government's attitude should be to put Singaporeans first; secondly, we should resist any erosion of Singaporeans' societal standing; and thirdly, it is the government’s responsibility to show compassion for the plight of the workers facing the pressure of high inflation. Therefore, the issue here is not of foreign workers’ employment per se but rather how the Singapore Government and the Labour Union will ensure that the dignity and societal position of Singaporeans workers are not compromised in view of globalization and labour mobility. Yaw Shin LeongOrganising SecretaryThe Workers' Party WP Labour Day Message 2008 Putting Singaporeans FirstThe top down tripartite collaboration amongst the Government, employers and a pro-government labour union is a sure recipe for potential compromises for the Singaporean worker. Overall employment creation in Singapore for the whole of 2007 is 236,600, surpassing 176,000 in 2006. However foreign employment rose to a new high of 144,500 in 2007. This means only 38.9% in 236,600 jobs created last year truly benefited Singaporeans.Singaporeans will be none the better off, even if more jobs are created, when more than 60% of the jobs created go to foreigners. Although Singaporeans may participate in skills upgrading programs, many realize that promotional prospects are limited.A certain portion of these jobs created could have been part time contract work positions. While the above statistics illustrate a rosy picture of high employment rate boosting the general public's confidence in the Singapore's economy, these figures require more detailed analysis to understand the actual employment status that Singaporeans are in. Could it be that more Singaporeans are holding contractual part-time work positions, whereas foreigners might be benefiting from the full time positions created?If this is the situation, this will disadvantage some segments of Singaporeans, resulting in less than ideal employment terms, such as compromised medical benefits and annual leave.Singaporeans' Societal StandingTo face the future with confidence and optimism, Singaporeans must be assured first of our societal standing in the midst of global uncertainties. Under the current top down tripartite collaboration model bold measures are taken to tackle macro economic challenges, and the impact on Singaporean workers must not be written off. With reference to a recent report in the local media, Minister Lim Boon Heng gave an explanation to a distressed Singaporean woman concerned about losing her job to a 'sweet young beer girl from China' that the foreigner's presence actually helped to draw in businesses, in turn saving the Singaporean woman's job. Such a 'brush-off' comment by a ministerial authority is hardly assuring.According to Mr Lim's logic, is he conceding that the PAP has created an economic model whereby Singaporeans must now be dependent on the foreign workers to retain our jobs? Singaporeans must now thank foreigners for helping us keep our jobs! As a result of this 'unique' economic model, the societal standing of the Singaporean worker is now being eroded in our very own country.Singapore is indeed becoming a 'City of Possibilities', however, it's not for Singaporeans but foreigners. While Singaporeans are still conceptualising our great future filled with 'possibilities', alas, this might already have been stealthily taken away. Showing Compassion The current harsh reality of rising food prices and inflation is a major concern for all Singaporeans, especially so for the lower wage workers, whose livelihood is also threatened by the increasing numbers of foreign workers. Our government must be compassionate and be proactive to initiate more substantial measures to help Singaporeans. Whilst NTUC has initiated a food voucher program, our government should also do something on top of the initiatives by NTUC. This is not to suggest that our government should subsidise food prices across the board but they are definitely capable of giving more help. The Workers' Party hereby repeats our call to reduce Singapore's GST rate by 2% and to keep our GST rates at 5% for at least a year. We also propose that the government reduce fuel tax as a compassionate gesture to ease Singaporeans' financial burdens. In spite of this sombre backdrop, Workers' Party encourages fellow Singaporeans to hold our heads high and not to lose heart. The Worker's Party will continue to pressure the government so that Singaporeans' privileges and opportunities are not compromised in the midst of a top down tripartite collaboration amongst the Government, employers and a pro-government labour union.The Workers' Party wishes all Workers in Singapore a Happy Labour Day.Yaw Shin LeongOrganising SecretaryThe Workers' Party Day-off For Maids? It is heartening to read about civil society groups such as United Nations Development Fund for Women (Unifem), Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2) & Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics (Home) campaigning tirelessly for better working conditions for maids in Singapore, particularly to get employers of maids to give them at least one day off each month.Personally I can understand the reluctance of employers to give maids off days. This is due to a $5000 bond imposed upon the employer to ensure the personal responsibility of their maid. There is always the fear of risking this substantial amount in the event that the maid ran away, became pregnant or get herself involved in illegal trades etc. This concern of maids’ employers must be looked into by the introduction of more enlightened manpower maid policies. Also the government need not practice a double standard exclusion of any particular segment of workers from the Singapore’s Employment Act, which stipulates minimum days off and maximum weekly working hours.Having said that, from a fellow worker perspective, I support this meaningful campaign, please visit their website at www.dayoff.sgNews: Civic groups campaign for maids’ day-off (ST, 30th April 2008) The Torch Relay The 2008 Olympics Torch Relay with the theme ‘Journey of Harmony’ is perhaps one of the most controversial torch relay ever in Olympics’ history. In many locations along the torch relay’s route, it has been met by protesters championing a variety of political issues, primarily, protesting against China’s human rights records and particularly the call to free Tibet from China’s political control.Being a partisan activist I empathize fully with the the protesters. It is very rare in the history of humanity, can an issue of a specific territory’s autonomy arouse such fiery passions across ethnicities, languages, cultures and boundaries.On the other hand, being a Singaporean Chinese and an avid reader of history, I am equally irritated with all these anti-China bashing and the politicization of the Olympics. This is especially in view of the great humiliation suffered by the Chinese people in the past one and a half century. Regardless of my empathy and irritations, I am of the view that the best way forward should be that of open dialogue and sincere compromise. Chinese leaders must stop pointing fingers and not shy away from establishing direct communications with Dalai Lama. On the other hand, being a revered spiritual leader , Dalai Lama should step up his influence to promote harmony, reduce Olympics’ agitations and dissuade further against Free Tibet protesters’ violent techniques. The partisan activist Who is a partisan activist?'This person is a certain type of individual who is zealously committed to a certain type of political goal who through a certain type of political mobilization cultivates more certain types. ' The above was what I shared with a young WP member to encourage this person not to be just a mere member but to become a WP activist instead. Do you have what it takes to be a partisan activist? WP wants you! Email me today at yawsl@wp.sg Photo: Veteran WP activist Steven Teo & I Recruitment Kopi Prospective candidates' recruitment is an important on-going Human Resource (HR) process across all political parties. The governing regime meet their prospective candidates over formal tea functions. This is certainly a possible method for candidates' assessment purposes.Unlike the governing regime, the WP practices a rather informal, relaxing and causal approach, we meet prospective candidates over 'la kopi' sessions. WP kopi sessions tend to be a stress-free and enjoyable process where views are exchanged candidly. During such sessions which last up to an hour, no topic is considered too taboo for conversational purposes. Do you know of any Singaporean who is for Singapore, pro Singapore and loves Singapore? If you believe that this person has what it take to stand up for Singapore, do email me at yawsl@wp.sg Photo: Eric Tan, WP Treasurer & I 'la kopi' after meeting a prospective candidate Informal Talks with Fellow Activist I met Desmond Lim, Assistant Secretary-General of the Singapore People's Party over dinner. We exchanged candid viewpoints and forward strategies regarding Singapore's political development.Photo: Sharing a light moment Of Rice & Price Economics 101 taught us that inflation is caused by excess money and credit in the economy. Money refers primarily to cash in circulation and in savings. Credit refers to amounts of loans financial institutions may extend. Inflation sets in when both month and credit 'grow too fast' compared with the ability of economies to produce goods and services. In layman's terms 'too much money chasing too few goods' Singapore's inflation rate was at 6.7 percent last month, highest in 26 years, revealed by Department Of Statistics. Accordingly, inflation reached 6.6 percent in the first three months of 2008, compared with the same period in 2007.It was explained that the high inflation rate is resulted by higher costs of food, transport, communications, housing and record high prices of crude oil. This week's Economist's Commodity-Price Index indicated a global 65.4 percent food price hike from a year ago. This is bad news for Singaporeans. For instance, today's Straits Times reported that school canteens are feeling the pinch of rising food prices. As a result, some vendors raise prices, while some others have to serve smaller food portions. Singapore has limited land to produce food, hence has the need to import most of our food commodities. Our monetary policy of Sing dollar's appreciation can only do that much in combating food inflation. As such our country must examine other options.Recently a friend shared a possible long term solution. This person is of the view that Singapore must strategically 'control the food business' in Asia to ensure food supply continuity and price stability in the long run. This idea is in line with a management concept of 'Backward Integration', whereby the ownership acquisition of one's supply chain is likely to result in the reduction of supplier power and hence reducing cost. Given the financial might of our Government-Link Companies (GLC), a backward integration posturing of Singapore's open economy with food producing capacities should be an on-going priority. News: Singapore's March Inflation Rate At 26-year High of 6.7% (CNA, 23th April 2008)School Canteens Feel Pinch of Raising Food Prices (ST, 24th April 2008) Show Us Ministerial Responsibility I read with regret that the PAP can so easily brush off Mas Selamat's escape with little regard to the concept of individual ministerial responsibility in a parliamentary democracy. Ministerial responsibility is a constitutional convention in a westminsterial system of government that a cabinet minister bears the ultimate responsibility for the actions of their ministry even if the minister has no knowledge of the actions. This convention is an essential as it is the least guarantee an electoral can have to have an elected official answerable for each governmental decision. More astonishingly, there is no 'separation of powers' in the composition of the 'independent' 3 member (COI)Committee of Inquiry, whereby a member of it is from the Home Affairs Ministry. PM Lee conveniently shunned the above considerations when he shielded his DPM. It is certainly expected by the Home Affairs Ministry to take correct remedial and disciplinary action. However to give a top-down blanket protection to the Home Affairs Minister and its top management for what that has happened is uniquely Singapore indeed. For a regime that blatantly benchmarks its ministerial salaries against top corporate remunerations so as to draw in top ministerial brains has no regard to the other side of corporate accountability equation warranting top dollars in the first place.Sadly Singaporeans now have to bear the consequences of this costly debacle, it is a painful reminder to Singaporeans that past reputations for competence is no guarantee for its perpetual continuity. In this instance, it has proven that despite Singapore's 'first-world' security reputation, complacency eventually sets in.Similarly if Singaporeans continue to rely on PAP's past reputations, we will all become none the wiser. It is certainly a wake up call for Singaporeans to steer our country towards the direction of democratic normalcy where political hegemony is absent and where no single party is in a position to compromise the healthy entrenchment of check & balances mechanisms. News: MPs focus on accountability of ministers in case of serious lapses (CNA) Unity Call A breakthrough in Singapore's political scene can only take place when our opposition parties start to put aside differences and collectively strive towards a common platform, for our next Singapore's Parliamentary General Elections.The PAP will certainly be fast to dismiss such an opposition platform as a 'marriage of conveniences'. However we just need to look inside the PAP itself to understand the 'membership of conveniences' phenomenon. The PAP is a mammoth party that compromises of individuals who join the party for a variety of reasons, patriotic or otherwise, held together by a strong central leadership, fortified further by the personal aura of MM Lee. I strongly believe that the true opposition activist is probably many times more motivated and committed than the average PAP activist. As such, it is certainly probable and justifiable for like-minded & committed opposition activists to work together, regardless of partisan backgrounds. Having said this, a platform for opposition cooperation can only succeed when our opposition leaders agree to come together to form the movement's central leadership. An earlier political alliance platform SDA (Singapore Democratic Alliance), consisting of SPP (Singapore People's Party), NSP (National Solidarity Party), PKMS (Singapore Malay National Organization) and SJP (Singapore Justice Party) broke down just after 2 general elections when NSP left the alliance. To make matters worse, the non-participation of WP (Workers' Party) did not help in the formative consolidation of strategic dynamics of the SDA. Another pre-GE2006 initiative, 'Project Breakthrough' (informal grouping of some SPP & WP members) failed to gather further momentum, other than the cultivation of personal friendships and the traditional avoidance of 3-corners electoral fights amongst bigger opposition parties during GE2006 itself.In this respect, opposition leaders in Singapore have to put aside existing bias, individual preferences, partisan interests and to collectively adopt a pro-Singapore, love-Singapore and for-Singapore platform via a rainbow coalition. It need not necessarily even be a formal entity, so long that this rainbow coalition can establish a mutual understanding (& ideally trust) amongst leaders from the various opposition entities. History has indicated that the formation of such a rainbow coalition isn't going to be easy, given existing intra-parties and external pressures.Now with the re-entry of our dear JBJ back into partisan politics - Given his personal aura, political experiences and credentials, I look forward to his leadership in this would-be rainbow coalition.The call for opposition unity has never been louder. News: Singapore Opposition Talks of Unity As Veteran Returns(Reuters)Photo: Lending support to Mr JBJ at The Reform Party's press conference. Of Hearts, Minds & Votes I attended a closed-door round table discussion yesterday on how the Info-Communication Technologies (ICT) has impacted the Malaysian GE 2008 and how it may affect Singapore. It was a very insightful session, though I believe it had limited usefulness in terms of applications to the Singapore context.This is because each epoch of political history is always very different from each another. Furthermore over time & space, the Malaysian political spillover is projected to be limited (if any).Still the Malaysian experience highlighted fundamental truths in the critical roles of an active civil society and a free media. Given Singapore tightly controlled mass media, it is most heartening to note the timely emergence of more concerned citizen-journalists, some relatively well organized operating online free media sites here.Perhaps one challenge here is that of the Singaporean Youth, who seems to be relatively more indifferent to politics compared to their Malaysian counterparts. In the course of my ground work, I came across several instances of youth been 'not in the know'. One particular instance, I experienced a rebellious youthful expression amidst loud proclamations of 'I don't care' and 'I do not want to care'. Well, at least this Singaporean youth is highly opinionated in a way...On the other hand I believe that expanding political outreach amongst Singaporean youth via ICT platforms is a probable proposition. Accordingly to one of the participants' hypothesis, youths do have some amount of influence in steering households' voting outcomes. This is highly conceivable.I am of the view that ICT are probably the 21st century political communication depositories where the battle for hearts, minds & votes are constantly fought. Also the targeted youthful audience via ICT today will automatically become a similarly targeted older citizens of tomorrow.ICT has permanently re-shaped democracy's battle terrain, hence it is imperative that political parties must understand and to posture their ICT approaches correctly. In this light, I strongly believe that WP must seriously re-examine its current approaches to ICT. Will you join me in this process? Political Talent Quest II Below are my responses to a friend's questions: Hi Shin Leong, In your latest blog post, you said, "The WP is constantly on the look out for political talents who loves Singapore, pro-Singapore and for-Singapore. Will you join us in this journey?" My questions are: Q: What will such talents expect after they join the party?A: Political activism is a 2 way process, talents can expect for things to happen or are expected to make things happen. I am of the view that the latter hold more truth in any dynamic processes. There is no exception in politics. Q: How will the party make use of their talents to transform into actions that will love Singapore?A: These talents must be first & foremost be encouraged to give their ideas for transformation. Ideas remain ideas unless there are people who are willing to act upon them, turning these ideas into actions. Patriotism calls more than mere symbolisms, still it can be a good start. Personally I prefer pro-active ground up initiatives. Ground-centric activities are ideal platforms for the up-flow of feedback & ideas translating into alternative macro policies/ directions. Q: What had WP done in the past two years and what is it planning to do in the next two years with those talents who join?A: The WP as a voluntary organization over the last 2 years has been consolidating its strength in terms of strategic personnel deployment. The Youth Wing set up in 2006 has propelled many of the party’s activities on the ground. At the Parliamentary level both LTK & Sylvia have been working hard in ensuring that the PAP government in terms of its respective ministries & organs of states stay accountable. Of course much more could have be done, but we must be prudent in our aims. Personally I am vested with the responsibilities to build up WP’s fighting capacities both at the front-line and back-end. WP welcome these talents on board to help WP improve all the areas which I mentioned above. Specifically (over the next 2 years) sustainable fresh ideas/ initiatives are most welcomed. Political Talent Quest PM Lee Hsien Loong justified the expansion of his ministerial team, so as to 'create as strong a team as possible' via the identification, cultivation of suitable individuals, giving them time and space to accumulate experience. Most have no doubt about his authenticity.Still for some this is most amazing: Whist the PAP has 82 parliamentarians to choose their ministers from yet it struggles with its strategic ministerial positions deployment. Compare this with our grossly under-developed opposition in Singapore, with only two members elected and one NCMP in Parliament! As our PM looks for his successor, it must be highlighted that Singapore's opposition movement is facing an even more uphill task: To find and field talents to not just replenish our ranks, but more importantly to deny our 'spoilt for choices'’ incumbent absolute powers. It is only by so doing, Singaporeans can ensure that our government stays checked, lean and effective.Consider the building up of Opposition presence in Parliament (specifically the WP) likened to that of having a 'national insurance' against absolute excessiveness. A strong WP presence in Parliament will be an independent democratic mechanism that keeps our government constantly in check for the betterment of all Singaporeans.The WP is constantly on the look out for political talents who love Singapore, pro-Singapore and for-Singapore. Will you join us in this journey? News: PM still looking for his successor (ST, 2/4/08) Public Servicehood The launch of Public Service Week, with 110,000 public officers taking a pledge on their commitment and dedication to serve Singapore and Singaporeans is a step in the correct direction.On the other hand, the challenge lies beyond symbolism. The real challenge is in the molding of positive attitudes and the instilling of a ‘not just going through motion’ mind set for each public service officer. Recently I overheard a teacher commenting on the following that an educational officer is in actual fact a heavily loaded administrator job, rather than that of a ‘real’ educator job. This person elaborated that it is administratively overly taxing, hence it is not quite possible to ‘give one’s best’ as an educator. According to this person, the prudent strategy for survival in public service is to ‘give in one’s second best’ so that there will be room for KPI (Key Performance Index) improvements! Personally I disagreed with this person’s attitude and approach towards public service. However we have to ask ourselves why are there people viewing the public service profession in such a light? I am sure there can’t be smoke without fire. Are our educators overloaded with administrative work? Possibly yes, if so – what can be done to improve the situation? So that our public educators are in the right environment, have a balanced workload, hence being able to re-focus on the core of their first responsibilities, i.e. to teach. Perhaps our Education Minister-designate should share his views on this matter. News: Public service week to forge pride, dedication (TODAY, 1st April 2008) A promotion bypass K Shanmugam's direct promotion from backbencher to law minister is an interesting political development for Singapore. This is certainly unprecedented.Having said that it is expected by many that Shanmugam has the aptitude and legal experience to discharge his ministerial duties effectively. The person that came to my mind immediately was Associate Professor Ho Peng Kee, Nee Soon East Single Member Constituency Member of Parliament and Senior Minister of State For Law.I recalled that during the elections, the PAP urged Nee Soon East constituents not to vote for WP's Dr Poh Lee Guan. The reason the PAP gave was because Ho Peng Kee had ministerial potential and therefore they cannot afford to lose him. In view of Shanmugam's promotion, has the PAP leadership changed their assessment about Peng Kee's ministerial potential?I believe many constituents who voted for Ho Peng Kee in view of PAP's reasonings would like to find out more:Specifically, despite Ho Peng Kee's experience in the law ministry, why was he bypassed for promotion?News: PM Lee unveils cabinet changes (CNA 29th March 2008) Dare To Document On Saturday by invitation, Rahizan (WP Vice Chairman), Eric Tan (WP Treasurer), Perry Tong (WP Youth Wing President) & myself were present at a private screening of political films by Singaporeans. This initiative was organized by a group of independent films makers.This private screening titled 'Dare to Document' was well attended by concerned Singaporeans across the civil and political spectrum. It featured 3 short films documentaries covering fellow Singaporeans participating in acts of civil disobedience. The contents are most revealing, for instance it is most puzzling to find out that our Singapore Police Police Force spent so much resources trying to restrain a handful of peaceful demonstrators. In my view there are so much more important things where our Police should be spending their time on rather than to expend public resources on these non-violence gatherings... At the end of the screening, lively exchanges of ideas regarding concerns, forward strategies and collaboration models were discussed among the film makers and members of the audience.'Dare to Document' is an important first step forward in the extrapolation of civil spaces and citizenry participation in Singapore. Singapore society will become a much better place with the constant activism of these independent films makers. Very importantly they need our support. Do visit the blogs of: Ho Choon Hiong Martyn See Seelan Palay A Chance Meeting with a Veteran Grassroots Leader During a WP outreach @ Cheng San Food Centre, Ang Mo Kio GRC this morning. I have the privilege of meeting Mr Leong Chin Hong. He is a veteran grassroots leader who served as:a) Secretary, Thomson Kampong San Teng CC (1960 - 75)b) Council Member, Thomson Citizen's Consultative Committee (1960 - 75)Mr Leong began by declaring his affiliation & his support for the PAP. Nevertheless we exchanged pleasantries, political viewpoints and name cards. To quote Mr Leong, he said, “Still what you people are doing is important, a democratic country must have a functional opposition.' I smiled back in complete agreement. Let us reflect upon Mr Leong's enlightened perspective! To Protest Or Not? In reference to the recent police arrest of political activists staging a protest outside Parliament House, a business associate said the following to me, “You guys make it so difficult for us to support the opposition.” (Emphasis my own). I explained to him the following:1)Different people [groups of people] have different ways of expressing their view points.2)His disapproval of the protesters' ways is in itself an expression of his democratic right3)He should not equate the actions of these few to be representative of Singapore's Opposition.I elaborated that:a) In a truly democratic state, non-violent protests should be tolerated. b) These protesters are people with clear-cut intentions. (To create awareness/ to seek attention/ to educate the public etc)c) They perfectly understood their strategies and the consequences of their actions. (Breaking existing laws (if any)/ Possible police action (if initial warnings were not heed) etc)I also shared with him the following views:To protest is the easy part. The challenge is 'what beyond the protest?'. Does the act of protest itself 'make things better' for fellow Singaporeans? If not then what? In my former capacity as the Project Director of the Think Centre, I participated in a couple of protests & 'extra-parliamentary' actions. Examples were:a) Protest Note @ Caldecott Broadcast Centreb) Abolish ISA Protest @ Hong Lim ParkDespite my experience & familiarity with protesters' thinking in what they potentially hope to achieve. Still in my opinion, to develop Singapore's politically - the best course of action is to institutionalize democratic mechanisms in the highest decision making body of this land. Specifically by working hard to get more like-minded opposition members voted into Parliament despite present obstacles.For opposition members to be voted into Parliament, voters must deduce for themselves whether the candidates are credible and worthy. In a State-controlled media environment, this process certainly will take time and there is no short cut. Concurrently WP believes that sustainability is important. As such WP will not engage itself in actions that will unwisely disqualify our members even before the General Elections.In this respect, I would like to urge my friend (& fellow Singaporeans) to continue supporting the WP. I would like to assure him (all) that presently WP finds no cause nor find it necessary to deploy extra-parliamentary actions. The WP will instead continue to channel our efforts to build up our organisational capacity, work within present confines and to win more Parliamentary seats. The vision is to make things better for all (including future protesters) when WP is in a position to do so.Photo: In my former capacity as Project Director, Think Centre (10/12/2000) A Positive Spill Over? A business associate remarked to me on Monday the following, 'Hey, Malaysia's Opposition did very well! You guys got chance already.' That that was not the first comment I heard on this topic. Over the last few days, several other Singaporeans friends commented to me that Malaysian Opposition's good results is likely to have a positive spill over effect on voters sentiments in Singapore's next GE.I certainly hope that their prediction will come to past! Still I cautioned them that it is too premature to determine yet. I reasoned that Malaysian political landscape is rather different from Singapore's. The different factors include the sensitiveness of their New Economic Policy, the existence of racial based politics and their rejuvenated opposition unity etc.On the other hand, Singapore's Opposition has been facing an extremely challenging political environment, with its different sets of mammoth difficulties, such as GRC politics, little human resources, limited monetary resources, censorship issues, fragmented opposition facing a deeply entrenched incumbent.In my opinion, given such a situation, over time with possibly 2 to 3 more years to our next GE, the positive spill over (if any) of Malaysian Opposition's good performance on Singapore's Opposition would have been potentially limited.In the light of the professed 'surprise' by our Foreign Minister George Yeo. Singapore's ruling regime will be now anxiously analyzing the factors contributing to BN's poor performance. The ruling regime is likely to mirror contextual similarities of the unexpected political outcome and busily brainstorming preemptive measures to prevent any political spillover across the Straits.As an opposition activist, I am really happy with the way how things turn out in Malaysia's GE2008. May Singapore's Opposition, specifically The Workers' Party succeed too! Away Notice I will be away till 15th March 2008.For urgent WP matters, kindly contact my WP colleagues.Otherwise, I am still contactable via email. WP's Organisational Culture Below are my responses to a recent interview conducted by a group of undergraduates:Q: Could you elaborate on the organizational culture of the Workers’ Party and what are the directions of the Workers’ Party in the near future?A: The current organizational culture of the Workers' Party is one that is driven by a hugely conservative leadership. Personified via the Secretary-Generalship of Low Thia Khiang & the collective leadership of WP's Central Executive Committee. SG Low's conservative leadership serves Singapore & WP well for this period of time. The primary reason is that, time is required for WP to build up a strong political & organisational core base.During this period of core base building up, centralized control, organisational discipline are necessary to propagate and to cultivate political talents with motivations of 'a certain type'. Eventually reforms, intra-organisational liberalization, emergence of more diversity and partisan factions will be the norms though.This does not mean that presently there are no vastly differing view points in WP. In an earlier postings (via my blog), I shared about my intense debates with SG Low on WP's strategic organisational directions. SG Low who was primarily Chinese-stream educated, is someone who has a high propensity for sound reasonings, impartial justifications and balanced view points. Chairman Sylvia Lim on the other hand was solely English-stream educated. She is an effective parliamentary tag-team partner with our SG, given her differing perspectives, independent viewpoints and wide ranging world views. Overall the collective leadership team of current WP's CEC is made up of concerned citizens who have collectively decided to 'do something', to better Singapore's political fundamentals. Particularly I would like to highlight the progressive growth of WP's Youth Wing membership base. This growth is primarily due to Pre/ Post GE2001 and Post GE2006 membership influx of concerned Singaporean youths.In my opinion, for a pivotal break through in Singapore's political landscape, WP must strive to win at least 1 GRC (Group Representative Constituency) in the coming General Elections. Without breaking through the psychological barrier of PAP's invincibility of GRC-politics, there can be only limited political development in Singapore.Q: May you also elaborate on a situation where this organizational culture has worked advantageously to your cause? A: One such particular situation was WP's strategic decision to contest Ang Mo Kio GRC in GE2006. This was the outcome of a thoroughly debated upon decision. Both possible outcomes (to contest or not to contest in PM Lee's constituency) hinged firstly on national interests, secondly constituency and lastly partisan ones. This debate process and eventual decision took WP almost 3 years. Nationally, as a result of WP's organisational culture of intense internal deliberations, this outcome of politically challenging the PAP at their leader's turf gave Singaporeans a historical choice whether or not to rectify PM's 'walk-over' mandate.Constituency-wise, by so doing, WP's decision to send a team to face the PAP at Ang Mo Kio GRC enabled constituents the chance to be politically educated and to be involved first hand.Partisan-wise, it enabled WP's youth leaders to 'take on the best', gaining tremendous political experience to understand PAP's mobilization methodologies better. This benefited WP's perspectives and enabled WP to mount effective future campaigns against the PAP for the people. Q: How did the organizational culture influence the process (how you go about the situation), as well as the people (mainly the members in your Party as well as the voters)?A: As the current Organising Secretary, I consistently balance WP's leadership conservative decision making considerations prior to the embarking of any new political and organizational initiatives. On the other hand, change is very much on the move, with WP supporters and members hoping to witness more 'visible' WP contributions at the national stage. I am sure voters would also like to see a more engaging WP across macro & micro levels. Having said that above, WP as a fully volunteer-based organisation must strive for sustainability, to work within its human resource and monetary limitations.Q: How did the people involved respond? A: A significant portion of those involved understood WP's situation. Most are willing to work within the current organisational culture and to improve the WP organisation, regardless of existing organisational circumstances. Some have left, for example my ex-comrades & ex-WP leaders Chia Ti Lik & Goh Meng Seng. Primarily their respective departures were due to differences in WP's political organisational approaches. Q: What are their feelings and thoughts?A: In the case of my ex-comrades, putting aside my personal disappointments with their decisions, I respect their decisions, comprehend their feelings and accepted their views points. It is my sincere wish that they can continue to contribute positively to Singapore's overall political development. In this respect, Ti Lik is currently a key founder/ leader of a local human rights initiative, SG Human Rights grouping. Meng Seng is a CEC member of fellow political opposition party, NSP (National Solidarity Party). It will very insightful to listen to their viewpoints on this matter too. For those who stayed on in WP's political journey, I am very glad and honored to be fighting alongside each and everyone of my WP comrades.Q: What was the outcome?A: Having experienced the departure of 2 members from WP's collective leadership team. I am of the view that WP must constantly reflect its organisational approaches and most importantly continue to stay tuned to the demands of our emerging youthful electorate. I strongly believe that as a political organisation WP must continue to welcome and strategically manage diversity in its rank-&-file. I look forward to meet more of such individuals. Q: Finally, do you have any advice for us, as students, seeking a career in Singapore politics?A: When I first joined WP, Low Thia Khiang said this to me, 'Yaw, you must learn how to harness your fiery passion into that of a combusted coal'. There is much wisdom and truth in these words. Hence if there is just one advise I can give to any student aspiring to become a political activist, the above would be it. Courtesy Call to DAP Perak Chief I am currently at Sitiawan, Perak (my late father's hometown) attending to a family matter. I took this opportunity to make a courtesy call to DAP Perak Chief Ngeh Koo Ham at his office.Mr Ngeh was also the Sitiawan Assemblyman and Opposition Leader of the recently dissolved Perak State Assembly.In the 2004 elections, Ngeh thrashed MCA’s Ling Mee Lin when he secured 9,874 votes over her 4,737 votes, earning himself the Sitiawan state seat with a 5,173-vote margin. This year, Mr Ngeh will be facing MCA's Lumut Youth division deputy chairman Ding Siew Chee. Despite Mr Ngeh's hectic campaign schedule, we spent some time together discussing politics in general.Mr Ngeh is an unassuming and effective assemblyman. He is rather well received by many of his constituents whom I spoke to. In my personal capacity, I extended to him my best wishes for this Saturday’s polls.Photo above: Mr Ngeh Koo Ham Read More about Mr Ngeh here