Why I joined the Opposition
By Gerald Giam
23 January 2010 | 4,736 Views | 73 Comments | 
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It has been just over a year since I joined the Workers’ Party (WP) as an ordinary member. I must say that the past year has probably been the most exciting and eventful year of my life, and there is every indication that the year ahead will top that. Although I declared months ago in the “About Me” section of my blog that I am a WP member, this will mark my first full blog post about my involvement with the opposition.
I wasn’t always an opposition supporter. I have no history of oppositionists in my family and most of my friends and teachers from school days knew me as someone who always followed the rules and did not question authority. Many, therefore, have expressed surprise that I have taken the plunge into opposition politics.
I first got interested in current affairs during my undergraduate days at the University of Southern California in the United States in the late nineties, where I majoring in electrical engineering. Although the level of political apathy on campus was still high compared to that of previous generations of students, it was enough to help me to see that what happened in the political realm had a huge impact on everyone’s life, including my own.
I brought my interest in politics back to Singapore when I returned in 1999 to serve my National Service. Back then, I used to think that being part of the PAP government machinery was the only way to effect positive change in Singapore. This was a reason why I made a drastic career switch from my first job as an IT consultant to work in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in 2005. It was also why I had volunteered for more than seven years as a youth leader in South West Community Development Council, which I have since resigned from.
Ironically, it was during my time in the civil service that my eyes were opened to the reality that Singapore needs a stronger opposition in order to ensure better governance for our future generations.
The civil service is generally a very well-run organisation, with many intelligent, competent and committed officers at all levels of the hierarchy. As a political desk officer in MFA, I had the privilege of interacting with a diverse array of officials—fellow policy officers, protocol officers, management support officers, permanent secretaries, ambassadors, ministers, and officers from other ministries like the Ministry of Trade and Industry and IE Singapore.
I made a number foreign visits during my stint in MFA, usually staffing ambassadors and ministers in small delegations. This gave me an opportunity to have lots of personal interaction with them and get a sense of how they thought about issues away from the glare of the media. I remember occasionally even getting into debates with them, sometimes over the PAP’s lack of commitment to democratic principles and fair play. During one such debate, over drinks on evening in a foreign capital, I recall the wife of the ambassador turning to my director and telling him, half in jest: “Don’t suppress that idealistic spark in him!”
Fortunately my director didn’t suppress my idealism, not that I displayed much of it after that—it is generally not career enhancing to have a reputation for being too idealistic in the Singapore civil service, where hard-nosed pragmatism is a prized asset. But I realised that despite its efficiency and professionalism, the civil service can only help fulfil the political objectives of the party in power. It cannot change those objectives, because it has neither the power nor the mandate to do so. Policy directions are set by politicians in the ruling party. (By policy directions, I’m referring to issues like whether or not Singapore should provide a universal social safety net for needy Singaporeans, not whether the Public Assistance grant should be $360 or $400.)
My friends in the PAP tell me that it is more effective to change Singapore from within the PAP than from outside. I believe that changes to the finer details of policies are possible from within, but fundamental changes to the way the country is governed can only come if the top echelon of leaders in the party either radically change their mind, or are replaced. Neither is about to happen anytime soon.
The pace of change from within will be too slow to meet the challenges of this fast moving world. Our country cannot afford to allow our competitors to pass us by or for our income divide to reach dangerous levels, while we wait for some senior gentlemen at the top to pass from the scene.
The need for an effective opposition
The PAP has conditioned Singaporeans to see the political opposition as a destructive force in society. They routinely accuse the opposition of “playing politics”, engaging in “unconstructive criticism” and “opposing for the sake of it”. These are very untrue and damaging characterisations.
In the United Kingdom, where we inherited the Westminster Parliamentary system from, the official title of the largest alternative party is “Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition”. This implies that the opposition opposes the government—“Her Majesty’s Government”—and its policies, but not the state, as represented by the monarch.
Even while the PAP remains in power, there is a useful role for the opposition to play. The opposition can use its platform in Parliament to apply pressure on the government to change policies which are not serving Singaporeans well. As much as the PAP wants to portray itself as impervious to public pressure, the reality is that when they know that there is a real threat to their support at the next elections, they will have to bow to public pressure built up by the opposition.
This is the beauty of genuine political competition. Just like how commercial competition forces businesses to work harder, become more efficient and provide better services to woo their customers, political competition will force the ruling party to focus more on bettering the lives of all Singaporeans in order to earn their votes.
I joined the WP because I believe Singapore needs an alternative leadership that is capable of taking over the reins and steering our country to its next level of development, should the PAP stumble. This will ensure that Singapore will continue to prosper and thrive even without the PAP in power. I believe the WP has the potential to be that alternative government in the future, and I want to play my part to contribute to its growth and development. I hope to be able to help my party sharpen its policy proposals and broaden its outreach to Singaporeans who are not usually interested in politics.
I am under no illusions that the road ahead as an opposition activist will be long and fraught with obstacles, not to mention minefields. Many who have gone before me have paid a heavy price for their ideals. Some have lost everything they had, except their dignity. All Singaporeans are heavily indebted to these heroes, whether or not they realise it.
I hope I will not have to suffer political persecution like these heroes did, but I know many things are beyond my control. I therefore ask my friends and readers for their prayers and support, as I take my first of many steps in this long march towards building a better Singapore for all Singaporeans.
————–
Dear readers, thank you for all your kind comments and words of support. My team and I cannot fight this fight alone. We need YOU! Please click here to find out how you can join me in this cause.
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I am a member of the Workers' Party. I blog in my personal capacity about policy issues in Singapore. 
January 23rd, 2010 at 2:12 AM
[...] From Gerald Giam’s blog: [...]
January 23rd, 2010 at 2:15 AM
Change is sometimes a good word, almost too easy to say, and difficult to execute at the same time.
Just look at the Obama administration. I’m not going to grade his performance, simply because it’s complex and controversial.
For something like a country/government, its intricacies and complexities, it’s 牵一发而动全身。civil service is but political machinery, to perpetuate the goals, vision or myths.
The reward system in Singapore does catapult such people and allow them to perpetuate the system. That’s precisely why they are strong and weak at the same time. They are strong because they reinforce and reinstate their system and beliefs. They are weak because just like any system, they will share single or similar points of failure.
The problem with the failure, I think, is that it’s not shouldered by them. You can see in the US that there are “socialised private externalities”. So all the ills of casinos, loan sharks, sky-rocketing real estate prices, staggering debts that fuels consumption, and eventually the widening of the rich-poor divide are but things that disturb the “bottom feeders” of the economy.
Since I didn’t do well in school, I wouldn’t even dare to dream about serving in the civil service, LOL. It’s almost like I’m fulfilling their prophesy of being a condemned bottom feeder perhaps.
January 23rd, 2010 at 2:23 AM
Hey Gerald,
Finally, you’ve made it official.. ;)
You have a good heart and a good brain as well.. I wish you the very best and I want you to know that you have my support in this new endeavour of yours.
It is my fervent hope that you will make it to Parliament one day. ;))
Andrew
January 23rd, 2010 at 2:29 AM
thank you for doing this, you have my support
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:26 AM
Gerald, Take care brother. May God bless you.
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:33 AM
It’s heartening to know that you have come forward to serve and change Singapore for the better. It must have taken you a lot of courage.
All the best to you, hopefully more of the better and none of the worst. Take care.
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:46 AM
Congratulations on making this move!
It may be a rough road ahead, but at least your life is following your idealism and principles!
Best of luck on your endeavour!
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:02 AM
For Singapore!
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:07 AM
You have my support too , Gerald.
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:47 AM
Good on you Gerald. I wish u success. Your bravery and sacrifice will be rewarded. The time and mood is for major change in Singapore.
January 23rd, 2010 at 12:27 PM
wise choice! 弃暗投明
William Jennings Bryan
“Never be afraid to stand with the minority when the minority is right, for the minority which is right will one day be the majority.”
January 23rd, 2010 at 12:50 PM
Gerald,
Your courage and the passion to help others will move those who knows you.
You have my prayers and support.
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:23 PM
Gerald,
Wonderful piece. As a PR committed to Singapore, but who has been resisting citizenship because I know I’d have to become active in Opposition politics whilst my wife has a career with MOE (where she’s had several ‘interesting’ conversations already), I am heartened by your courage.
One thing has always bothered me: You mention the Westminster system and how the UK refers to the primary opposition party. What I can’t remember ever having seen discussed is the UK Opposition’s traditional use of “shadow” ministers, to publicly voice alternative policy directions, call the Gov on the carpet when needed, and so on. Judging from time spent there, and long-time reading of the UK political press, I’m amazed that it hasn’t been tried (or made to stick?) here.
January 23rd, 2010 at 3:21 PM
Jeff,
“What I can’t remember ever having seen discussed is the UK Opposition’s traditional use of “shadow” ministers, to publicly voice alternative policy directions, call the Gov on the carpet when needed, and so on. Judging from time spent there, and long-time reading of the UK political press, I’m amazed that it hasn’t been tried (or made to stick?) here.”
As long as kangaroo judges and judiciary system that can only be subservient to the LKY due to high pay and status, the opp party will face difficulty in enforce check and balance. Any attempt to enforce those check will be taken as as direct defamation and accusation by LKY and his cronies and endup in summary judgement by those kangaroo systems. It has happened to Chee and JBJ.
January 23rd, 2010 at 3:38 PM
Thank you all for your kind comments and support. In the months ahead I will need to call on every one of you to partner with me in this endeavour to help build up this alternative government–and the first step is to reach out to more Singaporeans and win more seats in Parliament.
January 23rd, 2010 at 3:44 PM
I’ve been in the civil service since 18yrs before I decided to leave …. My own father once a great supporter of the PAP…..A political secretary for an MP .. he left a broken man. Even when they tried to call him back, he said no… he rather do social service. So here I am… continuing his legacy.
Its good to have younger generation taking interest in Politics and dare enough to be in the opposite site. I salute you. We need a healthy opposition. You know I was in KL during the March 8 election… in the streets watching the oppositing celebrating their victory. Even if just an observer, its a very powerful feeling. So young man…. hang on there…
January 23rd, 2010 at 4:25 PM
I salute you for your endeavour to build an alternative government. So far, WP is a credible opposition and most people like you may form the alternative government if the condition is right. Any fruitful competition of ideas is always good for Singapore. Remember to learn the lessons of those oppositions who had paid a heavy price for their reckless ventures without any evidence. Do not fall into the same mould and you may one day fulfil your cherished dream. Wish you and WP all the best and hope to see you in Parliament soon!
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:09 PM
Hi Gerald,
For too long, the silent majority has stayed silent and let the elite run the country. And for too long, the ’silence’ of the ruling party on issues affecting our lives, our livelihood and our children is just deafening.
For too long, we have been on the wrong path to democracy allowing one party to amass such power.
Welcome to the journey to make Singapore a better place for all.
January 23rd, 2010 at 10:11 PM
It’s admirable you’re taking the lead for this generation. Others will follow, benefiting from each step taken forward. It’s heartening for me as I come from the “lost generation” born in the 70s. I guess the time is ripe, I feel the tides are changing, ride the waves well.
January 23rd, 2010 at 11:47 PM
Dear Mr G,
My full respect to you and your decision.
You may not remember me, but we met before.
This is a simple view of mine, may be worth considering:
Point 1:
At this point of time, you are at a solid ground to quickly claim leadership. There are many relatively young and professional man/woman who are able to reason well that will listen to you. You speak in the frequency of logic, proper reasoning, and with heart.
Point 2:
With a solid background that you have, it is a true advantage. Do treasure that advantage and leverage. Remember, leverage.
Point 3:
Though on general landscape, it seems that it is not a level playing field; but for you niche start-up position, it is to your advantage. Because it is the exact reason why your position must exist and try to change it a more a level field.
Point 4:
Remember, there is power in number. DO WORK IN TEAM OF SOLID MAN AND WOMAN.
Point 5:
Have faith in your belief, your religion, your work and the very fundamental belief that truth prevails at all time.
Good luck my friend.
January 24th, 2010 at 10:07 AM
Hi Gerald,
The knight decides on the road less traveled!
Two points which I suspect you have already figured out…
1) Please assure your parents you will be fine. We know too well what happens to errant opposition politicians in Singapore. Assure them you’ll be in the mold of a Chiam See Tong, not a Chee Soon Juan.
2) Have good legal counsel. I’m sure your ACSian network has no shortage of talented lawyers who share your passion. In Singapore, if they can’t sue you, they can’t get you.
All the best… and we all know the best is yet to be…
Regards,
An Old Friend
January 24th, 2010 at 10:20 AM
An addendum…
3) Learn to deliver in Mandarin. Throw in a dialect if you can, preferably Hokkien or Cantonese, although this is diminishing in importance.
4) You are too honest, too frank, too guileless to dabble in politics. In life, that’s great. In politics, that’s an Achilles heel. Shore up on strategems… perhaps start by reading Sun Zi, Machiavelli, 36 Strategems, Three Kingdoms etc.
January 24th, 2010 at 11:27 AM
Well done man. We need good opposition to tear down the familee walls.
If the PM loses his AMK, Bishan, Marine Parade GRC, I will like to parade with you fellows.
Kick the million dollar f**ker out of the systems.
Let the all retired in JB as suggested by MR f**ker Khaw Boon Wan the MALAYSIAN.
January 24th, 2010 at 5:33 PM
Congratulations Gerald on taking the first step. Your eloquence, your sincerity, your intelligence and your group of friends will help you all the way. I sure wish you all the success and may more young men and women like you take up the challenge to contribute to the good of Singapore
January 25th, 2010 at 1:24 AM
It is independent, intelligent and brave personal decision. Unless ofcourse you are feeling insecure about your decision and defensive or fear of retribution. Don’t second guess yourself, dive in with both feet. Congratulation.
January 25th, 2010 at 11:11 AM
[...] Road to Election – Gerald Giam’s Blog: Why I joined the Opposition [...]
January 25th, 2010 at 1:15 PM
You have been tuning into FM 90.5 too often and unlikely to be useful to other channels.
Sorry, no vote from me here.
January 25th, 2010 at 3:38 PM
Well lets hope that you will not be part of the milder to be more credible opposition, and stand out for the ideals, some of which you have written strongly – not mildly.
January 25th, 2010 at 4:44 PM
You have my 200% support , Gerald.
January 25th, 2010 at 6:53 PM
I will vote for any opposition candidate of your calibre as long as they are not ‘bicycle thieves’ which was a disparaging remark often used by LKY in the olden days to insult opposition candidates. I admire people like you who have almost nothing to gain for serving the country in this way unlike those serving the PAP.
January 25th, 2010 at 9:31 PM
From one older ACSian to a younger ACSian: I salute you
on your decision to take the hard but more rewarding road
to improve the lot of all Singaporeans. Along the way you
will meet with many obstacles and pitfalls, but remember
that what does not kill you will strengthen you.
May our motto come true for us all – The Best Is Yet to Be!
January 25th, 2010 at 10:42 PM
Thanks, Gerald. Hope more quality candidates will join opposition. You have my vote!
January 25th, 2010 at 11:27 PM
Hi Gerald,
After reading your article, i learn that we have somethings in common namely : IT consulting, Electrical engineering and being non-apathetic and interest in current affairs.
Unlike you, i do not have the courage to step forward. I do have the courage to support rare gems like you in the background by posting in forums and blogs.
I support you because we share the same ideals and you are doing the right thing.
regards
Rix
January 25th, 2010 at 11:31 PM
Hey Gerald,
Like you , i too was too honest and straigh forward and had “idealistic sparks”. When in the wrong place , this could invite unwanted things.
But this only means our thinking is right.
January 26th, 2010 at 2:22 PM
Dear Mr. Giam,
I salute you with my highest respect. It is people like you, rather than those who repeatedly threaten to quit over milion$$$ pay, would truly make Singapore a great country and a great place to live. You are on moral high ground and I admired your passion, courage and sacrifice. You have got what it takes to be a true great leader. You made me feel that there is hope for Singapore.
To those who are in power, I urge you to allow this young man to develop for the betterment of Singapore. You may laugh at my naiveness in politics but I hope you would consider that your children / grandchildren etc. would be glad to have a country that all of them can be proud of too.
I wish Gerald well.
All The Best,
Tony
January 26th, 2010 at 4:30 PM
I believe the WP has the potential to be that alternative government in the future, and I want to play my part to contribute to its growth and development.
It will be naive to think the WP can be the alternative government without including other Opposition parties.
WP needs to engage and work with other Oppositionists, otherwise it will remain a pawn in the PAP’s game plan.
January 27th, 2010 at 12:46 AM
Okay… without writing a thesis… I have a little response to legion.
If WP hangs out with the wrong crowd, they’ll be rolling in the mud, and be just another “also ran” that earn no respect and have no prospects. They’ll be donating their deposits to the national coffers election after election.
On the other hand, if WP plays its cards right, if they take a leaf out of the PAP play book (PAP worked with the Communists in the early days to build its base), oppose when necessary, cooperate when it is for the common good, and grow from strength to strength, WP may actually have a shot in the long run.
And if they have a few of the elite-scholar types who have not lost touch with the common people join them and build from there, they will give PAP a run for its money perhaps one election from the next.
Being a pawn on the way to the throne is no shame. Acting like a fool and yet not know, is sad to say the least.
Regards,
An Old Friend
January 27th, 2010 at 1:01 AM
Thank you everyone for your words of encouragement and support. I will work hard and do my very best to live up to your expectations.
For those of you who would like to do more to help the opposition cause, please click here to see how you can join me in this worthy race.
January 27th, 2010 at 1:33 AM
all the best. i hope that you will fight for all singaporeans.
i do hope you will be able to pull the Opps together. I believe, your biggest obstacle may not be the PAP, but the WP detractors, and you know who they are.
January 27th, 2010 at 8:08 AM
It seems to me the biggest enemy is almost always within. Only parasites in the lion’s bowels can feed on the mighty predator.
History is replete with examples. Our short political history is no exception…
LKY, GCT and the entire PAP machinery couldn’t do much to Chiam See Tong or the SDP then. In fact, some PAP folks had to pay him damages and SDP’s stock was rising fast. Chiam See Tong then lost SDP, to Chee Soon Juan… his protege.
LKY’s almost spotless record has, among the accolades, Teh Cheang Wan on it.
This is where we all hope the protagonist will develop the wisdom to see through shenanigans and plots. And this is where we hope all the Sun Zi and Machiavelli will come in handy.
//———–
I have never posted this many comments on a single blog. I guess this decision (by Gerald) to join the WP means a lot to me and to many of us who are following this blog.
January 27th, 2010 at 11:32 AM
[...] Gerald Giam joins the Workers’ Party January 27, 2010 by admin · Leave a CommentFiled under: littlereddot, politician Another well qualified singaporean join the opposition party. As reported in TOC, Gerald Giam had joined Workers’ Party. At the same time on Gerald Giam’s blog, he blog on “Why I joined the Opposition“. [...]
January 28th, 2010 at 12:53 AM
A simple quote from someone:
“…. People need to know there are questions surrounding things. If they do not know, then they will never know that there are options…..”
So, Mr. G, do:
1. Command respect NOT fear.
2. Ask tough and valid questions, NOT necessarily with answers on hand. If you do not have answers, admit it. Ask and consult others (many willing to help). If it is really has no answer at this point of time, be frank, people will respect that.
3. Position yourself carefully as an option, NOT THE ONLY option. We are no longer in monopoly world. As An Old Friend wrote:
‘… oppose when necessary, cooperate when it is for the common good, and grow from strength to strength … ‘
(By the way, An Old Friend, you have a great insight, a very valuable adviser to Mr G. Also your language and words are very familiar.)
4. Have a TOTAL commitment (personal suggestion: do not be humble by saying ‘try to do my best’. It is a good phrase culturally, but lack of commitment professionally. Instead ensure your audience that YOU ARE DOING YOUR BEST NOW, TOMORROW AND CONTINUOUSLY.
5. Seek SUPPORT WIDELY. Treasure the ‘unthinkable’, for they may come to help at a critical time.
I, and the rest of us, HAVE CONFIDENCE IN YOU. Tough responsibility my friend, but worth it.
A slight modification from the original version in 1900’s:
MEN WOMEN WANTED FOR HAZARDOUS JOURNEY.
SMALL WAGES, BITTER COLD,
LONG MONTHS OF COMPLETE DARKNESS,
CONSTANT DANGER, SAFE RETURN DOUBTFUL.
HONOR AND RECOGNITION IN CASE OF SUCCESS.
Good luck my friend.
January 28th, 2010 at 1:31 AM
Hi all, my responses to some of the points raised:
Jeff @23Jan – I agree that setting up a shadow govt is a good milestone that the opposition should strive for. But the milestone before that should be to elect at least 20 oppo members to parliament.
ObserverOne – If we’ve met, I hope we can meet again. Thanks for your advice. I agree.
An Old Friend – Yes I intend to fight smart and live to fight another day. I won’t let my emotions or my pride cause me to do sily things that get me in trouble. Having said that, I know that if the PAP wants to fix me, they can. It’s something I’m prepared for, but not something that consumes me.
You know any lawyers, ACSian or otherwise, who would be interested to help me?
“You are too honest, too frank, too guileless to dabble in politics. ”
I hope we can build up a different type of politics in Singapore.
soojenn – Yes I intend to continue standing up for my ideals as well as that of ordinary Singaporeans.
Rix – Joining the opposition in Singapore does not require extraordinary courage. You just need a passion for politics/policy and a love for people. I hope you can join us!
Tony – I agree. Part of my reason for joining is to build a better SIngapore for my children and grandchildren.
ObserverOne – You’re right. I’m not just going to do my best. I’m going to DO IT.
January 28th, 2010 at 3:37 PM
Now that the imminent challenge is the General Elections, there is an issue that I hope you and the WP can address: voter paranoia about the secrecy of their vote is and has been I think one of the biggest stumbling block to Opposition Party success next to the electoral boundary/resource lack problem.
The bulk of eligible voters used to be aged over 40 (it’s changing now)and the irrational fear of repercussions from voting Opposition has I believe worked in favour of PAP. There are also all sorts of urban legends floating around about people not getting their HDB applications approved allegedly due to their having voted Opposition.
I hope the WP recognises this social pattern and perhaps has a strategy in place to educate people on the voting process and voter confidentiality. It sounds rather minor and small, but it’s a mindset that is very hard to change cos it taps directly into people’s psychological fears that their bread and butter will be threatened by voting a certain way. And the group that has the most to lose but are now very largely represented is the MIDDLE CLASS. As long as people FEAR that something they have can be taken away, nothing can overcome that, not political ideals, not social grievances and certainly not their confidence in an opposition political party, no matter how persuasive you are.
I certainly do my best to educate people about how it works, why we have serial numbers on voting slips (one-man-one-vote, from British system) and what happens to the votes (locked and sealed in Supreme ct for 6 months before being burnt). Hope WP will also try to do this in some way.
January 28th, 2010 at 11:46 PM
Dear Mr G,
I am very happy that you responded to each and everyone who writes in this comment blog. This shows a great part of you to acknowledge feedback.
As for your invitation to meet again, I am in the opinion that this is not the time yet. It may not be to your advantage to meet me in person at this point of time. Perhaps at a much later time of our friendship.
However, this is my commitment to you: As far as I am able to contribute ideas, writing, strategy and analysis, I am fully committed to help you; with ONE condition that you stay truthful, focused, mindful and keeps working hard.
I remember a great quote from my mentor: “Stay hungry and humble”.
Note: you may contact me by writing on your own blog.
January 29th, 2010 at 12:08 AM
ObserverOne – That was a quote from Steve Jobs wasn’t it? Yes it’s good advice.
January 29th, 2010 at 5:10 AM
Honestly, I know nothing about politics. I find it trouble, boring, and annoying. What’s worse, is I dislike PAP’s action, but I find it hard to find a good Opposition that stands out.
But I guess I’m wrong. After reading what you wrote, it truly spark great deal of intrests to see what might happen in the next General elections. I’m not going to comment on either parties or what I think about what you said.
Bottom line, I’ll be keeping my eyes on your progress. For us Singaporeans, I hope you Oppositions don’t let us down. If there’s a time for change, that time, is now.
January 29th, 2010 at 1:23 PM
Go and travel a bit in our region. Look at their schools, roads, housing, defence, civil service, airports, police force, national reserves, public housing, pubilic utilites, rivers etc. Singapore 50 years ago was like them.
You got your education from the system and now you want to change the system. Great. But what make you so sure that it will be better. Arrogance? and Ignorance? or simply Naive. My friend it is not easy. Of course after the country is develope everyone is coming out wanting to serve Singapore.
I think it is good that the Opposition gets better qualified people like you to give the PAP a good fight. And if you do win, please don’t bring dont dismantle it. You don’t have to justify nor explain to us why you want to join the opposition. It is a non-issue and your right.
January 29th, 2010 at 11:16 PM
Dear Mr G,
This is my personal opinion, for you to digest and filter:
What Thinktok wrote is a good point to start homework. This view is solid and popular.
But it has basic flaws that you should be able to identify better than me. Start from those basic flaws, question them, and convince Thinktok that his/her view may not be the best view.
Also, do NOT position yourself as someone who know everything. In fact, at certain time it is best to ask instead of answering. Employ Socrates approach in your reasoning and persuasion.
January 30th, 2010 at 10:51 AM
[...] to Election – Gerald Giam’s Blog: Why I joined the Opposition [Recommended] – Sgpolitics.net: PM Lee: Complete loss of perspective at Singapore Perspectives [...]
January 30th, 2010 at 11:39 AM
Please allow me to write some thoughts about the view suggested by Thinktok. Also, I would like declare that this has nothing to do with any person in particular. It is a general comment.
Point 1: Perspective of work done and result achieved.
What we have today is NOT the result of yesterday’s work. It is the result of 10, 20 or 30 years ago (in general). Thus it should be acknowledge that this is the result of HARD WORK FROM PREVIOUS GENERATION (who are more or less senior citizen now).
With regards to this view, the question is: “What are we doing today? Is this something that can make our next generation proud? Is this something that will enable our next generation to stand on a higher point as compared to others in this region?” I am not in position to discuss this now. I believe given the extensive traveling of Thinktok, he/she should be more clear about this than me.
Point 2: Perspective of collective hard work.
Please remember that there are many people who have done great things for Singapore. Some received acknowledgment, most did not. This good result that we have today is BASED ON COLLECTIVE HARD WORK. It is not based on one person ideas, or one person hard work only. Nor it is based on one party ideas, or one party hard work only. A fair perspective must be established. Proper acknowledgment must be given.
With regards to this view, there is a question: “What have been done to those who have contributed their life, soul, and hard work to achieve this result? Is this fair that someone, or some entity than use this result as a bargaining tool for self-interest? Is it true that all this result solely based on one man, or one party hard work?”
Point 3: Comparison to others in this region
Given extensive traveling and reading, one should be fair to acknowledge that others in this region is still behind us.
However, one should also acknowledge that there are significant changes happening there. Some of this significant changes are structurally important, as they are preparing their system to propel much faster at a later date.
There are many points and many question with regards to this view. I would like highlight just one that comes to my mind recently:
Both in our neighbours, the economy sector is more or less decoupled from politics sector. This is clearly proven and shown in the last 3 to 5 years. This decoupling is good from the perspective of a proper and ideal system.
And what about us? Is the public statement that establish a very close link of HDB value to politic is true?
I am not expert, so I do not know their answer.
January 30th, 2010 at 1:05 PM
Dear GG,
I’ve read many political blogs,YOUR’s the BEST!You’ll have many supporters.
In the 60’s, I saw Man in white with the lightning logo, winning people’s heart & vote.Today! they’re harvestings from this island as I’d pasted many 10 cents stamp on my POSB saving card.
Bumiputra(son of this earth) like me are paying thru our nose for the all the high costs of living invented by our commercialized elite ministers!(No more for a belly of FIRE to serve the citizen)PAP mean Party & the People, so our 3 rm HDB flat cost $7K in our own land of the 60’s, and it’s hundred of thousands for now! Why? We have Billions in reserves but been losted by the elites??? They are bashing the citizen that had voted for them to pay for their errors!Today, the elites are inviting FT to stay & they must vote for them if they become citizen.How SAD!!!
So GG, stand up and do somethings, be a an altenative, to shut their claims that no other opposition is better than them, for i’m old and have seen how our elite, doing us in as they’d forgotten those old folks that are not able to catch up with their high salarys thus pushing our cost of livnghood!
I’ll support and wish all the best to you & our future leaders!
January 30th, 2010 at 3:51 PM
Dear Mr G,
This is a good standard for your reference please.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/photos-and-video/video/creating-new-jobs-investing-high-speed-rail
January 30th, 2010 at 4:31 PM
GeekyPrince – I’m very glad your interest in politics has been sparked. Politics affects our lives much more than most of us are aware of. The more you pay attention to it, the more it will come alive and be of interest. Yes I will focus on fighting for the wellbeing of Singaporeans, whether I’m a blogger or a politician in future.
Thinktok – I’ve been to places as varied as Denmark, Japan and the US, as well as Nigeria, Bangladesh and Egypt. I am well aware of how Singapore fares vis-a-vis all these countries. I know running a country well is not easy. Personally I have no intention of dismantling anything in Singapore that works. But what doesn’t work we must fight to remove. That’s what any responsible and rational opposition should do.
I take issue with your assertion that “after the country is develope everyone is coming out wanting to serve Singapore.”
I wasn’t born yet when Singapore was undeveloped. But now that I am living in Singapore in the year 2010, I want to do my part to make sure it continues on the path of progress.
ObserverOne – I agree. I don’t know everything — I’m not even close. I would like to leverage on academics, thinkers and ordinary Singaporeans to come up with the best alternative policies. If you know anyone I should speak to, please do introduce us. And thanks for the links.
Ah Piak – Thanks for your support. Do join me and ask your friends to join me too — we need to work together to bring about change in our beloved Singapore.
January 30th, 2010 at 5:06 PM
Dear Mr G,
One person whom I know who is a truly good person with good heart is F726247 S369. Try to contact him please.
January 30th, 2010 at 5:43 PM
How do I contact this person?
January 30th, 2010 at 8:32 PM
He is your senior, now 82. Lived in Boston, Massachusetts.
January 31st, 2010 at 12:22 AM
ObserverOne – what is F726247S369? A senior, now 82 and previously lived in Boston, Massachusetts? Pardon me for saying this but this sounds more like a scene from “A beautiful mind”.
GG – Loving the stuff I’m reading. Love to see and hear more from you in the near future. All the best!
January 31st, 2010 at 12:39 AM
I would certainly call Mr Chiam See Tong, Mr Low Thia Khiang and maybe JBJ as heroes who stands and fight for Singapore, but definitely not Chee Soon Juan. He is a joke, so please fight with dignity and righteousness and not follow into his footsteps.
All the best and do articulate more of your views and solutions on current policies. We will be keen to know how you will contribute and make a difference! :)
January 31st, 2010 at 9:56 AM
Pardon me, there is a reason why I wrote this way.
Mr G, you are G37253 G426.
Sydney, you are S9363974337.
Please acknowledge who I am.
January 31st, 2010 at 10:18 AM
Mr G,
I have confidence in you and your team. What your senior has achieved in the past, you and your team should be able to surpass it. He should be more than helpful to share experience and give his opinion.
By the way, I personally think that the latest public comment that closely link HDB to one person performance is very disturbing. This is because most of us have one thing in common, that is our biggest asset is the the roof over our head. And this is paid throughout our life, not to mention the price + interest. And now, its value is so conveniently linked to one man performance? Oh dear. I do not know how and why this happen.
January 31st, 2010 at 1:12 PM
GG I quote you:
‘I wasn’t born yet when Singapore was undeveloped. But now that I am living in Singapore in the year 2010, I want to do my part to make sure it continues on the path of progress.’
It is a bit presumptious to think that you can do a part to make sure… Politics is a long and arduous task. Maybe it is the big salary? Maybe it is a genuine commitment. What make you so sure you are the right man with the right aptitude and solution?
We are very vary of people who can talk and talk too much. Like Obama he promised change. What kind of change do you have in mind.
I asked you to travel our region because Singapore started slightly behind. This Government had done well and of course there is a lot of room for improvement like untested ministers, high salaries, overstaffing at the top etc
That YOU can do better makes me very excited!
January 31st, 2010 at 9:54 PM
A friend referred your blogsite to me – I am glad.
Somehow, I feel rejuvenated again – reading your statement has made me proud to be a Singaporean still cherishing the Singapore Ideal.It wells within me my own days of trying to live the Singapore Dream…
From nearly 40 years ago, my “quarrel” has been with our possibilities of being great – not just good.And, the long-term path would be to open up discourse on all fronts.
Our size, our level of literacy, if not education, must – in my mind drive us to the “Athenian city state model,so to speak, where we can debate as ONE – “Ruling’ /”Opposition’ parties,whatever.. beceuse we are ALL Singaporeans with one common goal.
I am filled with joy for your ideals, and can only offer my encouragement and prayers – esp when trials come your way.
Take care and God Bless
February 1st, 2010 at 12:09 PM
F726247S369 Francis Seow?
February 1st, 2010 at 5:56 PM
keep it up we will support you all the way
February 1st, 2010 at 7:27 PM
+
February 1st, 2010 at 9:40 PM
Mmm. I like where this is going. This is an interesting sign.
February 1st, 2010 at 11:34 PM
Mr G,
One possible suggestion that I have for you:
Quickly get some crash course on economics. This is very fundamental. Having been an entrepreneur, you can surely feel some basic touch and feel of economics in real-life sense. But that is NOT enough, you need to read more than just numbers. Yo need to understand each and every concept very clearly, because you HAVE TO be able to see further than those statistics. Also, make sure you can spot CREATIVE STATISTICS (i.e. a very harmful but commonly used tool).
Also, knowing the basic is NOT enough. You need an expert to stand beside you, always. He/she is able to read your mind vice versa very clearly. So it is important to be honest to each other. Once you gain trust of each other, treasure them. Of course after knowing he/she is a solid person. (This relationship is just like a relationship between a man and his arm).
I will sign off for a while. No further comment from me until it is needed. Please take care.
(Note: just write on your blog if you need me to respond).
February 2nd, 2010 at 8:47 PM
Sydneysider – Thanks for reading!
sandy – I promise I will focus more on coming up with better solutions.
Thinktok – I don’t think it’s presumptious of me to say I will “do my part”. I’ve already said that I am ready for the long march. I’m only 32 and am in no hurry at all.
Wah Yong – I’m thrilled to hear your feel rejuvenated. I hope you can not only pray for me, but join me as well.
ObserverOne – Yes I am working on increasing my economics knowledge.
February 3rd, 2010 at 12:36 AM
There is a friend from a neighboring house. He came by invitation and later on, asked to leave by order. A good mixed of an economist, a businessman and an administrator. Having been freshman, he studied and analyzed clearly current economic situation, WITHOUT BIAS.
Also, he had developed a reasonable good blue print for what and when to do list because he was asked to head a heavy institution. But things turned out different then. He had to go. His blue print, well, was adopted without permission.
IF you are able, please contact him. Listen, filter and learn. Thanks.
February 3rd, 2010 at 12:44 AM
tt,
any guess?
February 3rd, 2010 at 1:28 PM
GG is someone who the Opposition parties need and it is a blessing WP has you. Frankly, I’m getting sick and tired of past elections of Opposition parties spending most of their election time bad-mouthing PAP. They were never going to connect with the people this way. Talk about current and domestic issues affecting Singaporeans and most importantly, get the youth involved in Singapore politics. Get them to question things and think critically.
March 9th, 2010 at 2:11 PM
My advice to u is not forget the Malays. Have more Malay friends. Learn Malay with a heart to understand them. If u mixed wif ur Chinese friends always, u will hv a parochial view if u become a leader one day. The Malays supported LKY b4 after that we are forgotten and some become beach people. If u need to study Malay contact me. One more thing to ensure that you build a credible team, for every 1 chinese worker u work with, have 2 Malay workers there too, to neutralise Chineseness. I fear coz of ur ACS background, Foreign Service and Uni of Calif background, u hv scant exposure to Malay people an important potential segment of ur supporters.