Parliament's for "serious discussion, not just criticism"
30 October 2011 1840 hrs (SST)
PERTH, AUSTRALIA: Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has said that Parliament is a place for serious discussion and not just criticism.
Mr Lee added that Parliament is not just a place to hold either the government or opposition to account.
Instead both sides should participate in solving problems together, or Singapore would be worse off for it.
He was speaking to the Singapore media at the end of the three-day Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Perth on Sunday.
Earlier this month, Singapore's Parliament sat for the first time since the May General Election, and members shared their thoughts on the measures needed for the country to prosper.
Mr Lee said that while the opposition had put a lot of effort into their parliamentary speeches, it remains to be seen if they will participate in helping to solve problems.
"This is not just a show, it's not just theatre. This (Parliament) is a place where we are discussing very serious business and where we have to make very difficult choices for Singaporeans on behalf of our voters," he said.
"And I think as government, it's our responsibility to speak the truth to Singaporeans and I think it's the opposition's responsibility also to acknowledge the truth and to speak it, whether or not it's politically advantageous to them," added Mr Lee.
On Singapore's economy, Mr Lee said that there are dark clouds on the horizon, referring to the latest report from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).
The MAS report said that Singapore's economic growth will stall over the next few quarters before seeing a modest recovery late next year because the long-term structural problems in Europe will not disappear soon.
Prime Minister Lee added that Singapore is also facing slowing growth because the economy is more mature.
"For a developed economy, 3, 4% (growth) is not bad. Of course, we've been used to 5,6,7 (percent), or even more in the past, but it's a different phase. When you're an adolescent, you grow and shoot up inches every year. When you're mature you hope to grow, not necessarily taller but wiser and better," said Mr Lee.
On the government's move to raise the minimum qualifying salaries for foreign professionals and skilled workers, Mr Lee said that the government knows it has been painful for employers.
He added that accepting a lower growth rate is the price to pay for managing the population size in Singapore.
Even with these challenges, Mr Lee said Singapore should not be too downbeat. He said Singapore hopes to have quality growth - improved productivity for better wages.
Mr Lee also pointed out that he had met various leaders at CHOGM, all of whom expressed admiration for Singapore and said the country has done very well.
Referring to his meeting with Western Australia's Premier Colin Barnett, Mr Lee said it is keen to develop links with Singapore.
Mr Lee concluded that Singapore is "not doing badly", but can do better.
On CHOGM which had focused on reforms, Mr Lee said it would not be easy to transform the Commonwealth.
Calling the Commonwealth an "old boys' club" brought together by a shared history, he said members work together where they can but they also have disagreements.
On the failed proposal to appoint a watchdog for human rights, Mr Lee said Singapore's support will depend very much on whether such a commissioner will be productive.
The proposal for an independent commissioner on human rights, democracy and the rule of law was one of the reforms called for by an "Eminent Persons Group" that CHOGM itself commissioned two years ago to help it maintain relevancy.
I agree that the parliament should be a place for constructive debates.
But how many times did the government put bill up for debates when it had already been passed?
How many times did the PAP government themselves drawing their million dollars salaries but still call for assistance? Waste of tax payer money if you ask me.
I have no problem with the government making mistakes.
My main problem with this administration is their gross salaries.
Are these people worth being the most expensive cabinets in the world?
I admit there are a few good men in there but they are also what I call “YES MAN” which cannot do anything as long as there is a party whips in the PAP controlling these Member of Parliament.
But don’t forget, it is the people from your constituency that voted you in the represent them, strictly speaking you work for them and not for your party. Gosh they even pay your salary as well.
For Hsien Loong to make this statement, he must look at his own policy.
Can the current government open to criticisms and put bills for parliament debates before passing them?
Can the PAP for once work and think for the man on the street rather for themselves and the elites?
Can Hsien Loong stop thinking debates with the opposition parties are a waste of time and he need to “fix” them?
Talk is cheap. Just do it and the people will see for themselves Hsien Loong.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Modern day slaves
S'poreans' top worries: All about $
Lack of money is one of the causes of all unhappiness among Singaporeans.
Tue, Oct 25, 2011
my paper
AS THE age-old adage goes, money is the root of all evil. But money - or the lack of it - is also the root of all unhappiness among Singaporeans.
The top three causes for unhappiness here: Insufficient personal savings, growing expenditure in the last six months and the current state of the economy. In addition, the most unhappy group of citizens are young adults aged between 18 and 29 years old.
These are the findings of The Happiness Report, a study on the happiness quotient of Singaporeans released yesterday by integrated marketing-communications agency Grey Group Singapore. The study was conducted in June on 200 Singaporean respondents of all races aged 18 and above.
Happiness was also hotly debated in last week's parliamentary sessions, after Aljunied GRC MP Sylvia Lim suggested that Singapore use an index of happiness and well-being to gauge the country's growth instead of relying on just gross domestic product.
In a separate study on the effect of material success on perceived quality of life, Dr Christie Scollon, associate professor of psychology, noted that material wealth is an important part of Singaporeans' conception of "the good life".
"There is a shared consensus that material wealth equates to the good life," said Prof Scollon, who teaches at the Singapore Management University's School of Social Sciences.
"Think of the 5Cs and how everybody knows what they are," she added.
Rising inflation may have also played a part in making Singaporeans unhappy.
The latest figures released by the Department of Statistics yesterday showed a 5.5 per cent increase in the consumer price index last month, compared to that one year ago, due to higher costs for housing, transport and food.
The Happiness Report also noted that a higher percentage of working women are unhappy as compared to their male colleagues.
Grey Group Singapore chief executive Subbaraju Alluri called this "the most revealing finding of the study".
He said that, with 57 per cent of women here in the work force, this points to the fact that a large number of them are juggling their roles and responsibilities at work and in their families.
"Roles for women in Singapore have become more stressful than ever before. The other potential reason could be the corporate glass ceiling that some women face, with the long hours they put in not being reflected in their career progression," said Mr Alluri.
Added Prof Scollon: "They may have so many roles and obligations to fulfil that they often feel guilty while doing one thing, because it means not being able to do something else.
"In short, the modern woman is overly burdened."
First I think the sampling size of 200 is too small. 200 out of 1 million Singaporean in the workforce is like 0.02%. Not even the tip of the iceberg.
So this Grey Group Singapore make itself sound not very professional here. I wonder what their point of publishing this “finding”. Publicity perhaps?
I got to say the findings are nothing new and I bet the result will be more negative if the sample size increases. So maybe the Grey Group don’t want to make the government look too bad while trying to have some publicity at the same time?
Back to the findings.
Singapore is well know for high cost of living, long work hours, competitive education system, inefficient public transports system, place with the most expensive private transports in the world, moronic Ministers and absent of basic consumer rights.
In short I don’t think Singaporean are a happy bunch, the only happy people in Singapore are the Foreign Trashs…. Talents I meant.
With high cost of livings, Singaporeans have to work longer hours with no minimum wages while competing with cheap foreigners workers. While our government slipping champagne in their ivory towers.
The county has became an efficient money making machine with slaves tied town by housing loans and expensive health care. We have forgotten how to take time off, go for long holiday giving up some material wealth like cars and condominiums.
Lack of money is one of the causes of all unhappiness among Singaporeans.
Tue, Oct 25, 2011
my paper
AS THE age-old adage goes, money is the root of all evil. But money - or the lack of it - is also the root of all unhappiness among Singaporeans.
The top three causes for unhappiness here: Insufficient personal savings, growing expenditure in the last six months and the current state of the economy. In addition, the most unhappy group of citizens are young adults aged between 18 and 29 years old.
These are the findings of The Happiness Report, a study on the happiness quotient of Singaporeans released yesterday by integrated marketing-communications agency Grey Group Singapore. The study was conducted in June on 200 Singaporean respondents of all races aged 18 and above.
Happiness was also hotly debated in last week's parliamentary sessions, after Aljunied GRC MP Sylvia Lim suggested that Singapore use an index of happiness and well-being to gauge the country's growth instead of relying on just gross domestic product.
In a separate study on the effect of material success on perceived quality of life, Dr Christie Scollon, associate professor of psychology, noted that material wealth is an important part of Singaporeans' conception of "the good life".
"There is a shared consensus that material wealth equates to the good life," said Prof Scollon, who teaches at the Singapore Management University's School of Social Sciences.
"Think of the 5Cs and how everybody knows what they are," she added.
Rising inflation may have also played a part in making Singaporeans unhappy.
The latest figures released by the Department of Statistics yesterday showed a 5.5 per cent increase in the consumer price index last month, compared to that one year ago, due to higher costs for housing, transport and food.
The Happiness Report also noted that a higher percentage of working women are unhappy as compared to their male colleagues.
Grey Group Singapore chief executive Subbaraju Alluri called this "the most revealing finding of the study".
He said that, with 57 per cent of women here in the work force, this points to the fact that a large number of them are juggling their roles and responsibilities at work and in their families.
"Roles for women in Singapore have become more stressful than ever before. The other potential reason could be the corporate glass ceiling that some women face, with the long hours they put in not being reflected in their career progression," said Mr Alluri.
Added Prof Scollon: "They may have so many roles and obligations to fulfil that they often feel guilty while doing one thing, because it means not being able to do something else.
"In short, the modern woman is overly burdened."
First I think the sampling size of 200 is too small. 200 out of 1 million Singaporean in the workforce is like 0.02%. Not even the tip of the iceberg.
So this Grey Group Singapore make itself sound not very professional here. I wonder what their point of publishing this “finding”. Publicity perhaps?
I got to say the findings are nothing new and I bet the result will be more negative if the sample size increases. So maybe the Grey Group don’t want to make the government look too bad while trying to have some publicity at the same time?
Back to the findings.
Singapore is well know for high cost of living, long work hours, competitive education system, inefficient public transports system, place with the most expensive private transports in the world, moronic Ministers and absent of basic consumer rights.
In short I don’t think Singaporean are a happy bunch, the only happy people in Singapore are the Foreign Trashs…. Talents I meant.
With high cost of livings, Singaporeans have to work longer hours with no minimum wages while competing with cheap foreigners workers. While our government slipping champagne in their ivory towers.
The county has became an efficient money making machine with slaves tied town by housing loans and expensive health care. We have forgotten how to take time off, go for long holiday giving up some material wealth like cars and condominiums.
Monday, October 24, 2011
The quality of our Ministers are shocking.
Low: Better, faster and perhaps cheaper ministers?
Yahoo! Newsroom – Sat, Oct 22, 2011
Workers' Party chief Low Thia Khiang and Labour chief Lim Swee Say from People's Action Party (PAP) locked horns during the final day of the 12th Parliament's first meeting on Friday.
As the last speaker to speak from the opposition bench, Low -- the MP for Aljunied GRC -- took aim at Minister Lim Swee Say’s oft-repeated slogan of “cheaper, better, faster” and said that “perhaps we will start to see better, faster ministers at work and perhaps cheaper (ones) after the ministerial salary review is completed”.
He also urged the government to ask itself why Singaporeans commonly perceived the government to be "more concerned with paying its ministers well than about the welfare of the people."
In reply, Lim – who is the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office as well as chief of the NTUC labour movement —said that his “cheaper, better, faster” slogan was referring to products and services and that comparisons were unfair.
“There’s a fundamental difference,” he said in his speech. “What the NTUC and the tripartite partners and pursuing are cheaper, better, faster products and services, and a cheaper, better, faster economy, not a cheaper, better, faster workforce.”
The East Coast GRC MP also said he was at a loss for words when Low said he felt that ministers served out of self-interest, accusing opposition MPs of taking credit for "the good things" that the government has done since the May General Election by saying that the presence of opposition MPs have brought about policy changes.
Separately, Low also urged the People’s Action Party to refrain from using “doom and gloom” scenarios when debating health care and welfare policy trade-offs.
“I urge the PAP to step out of the shadow of doom and gloom of certain pitfalls of Western liberal democracy and work towards a First World Parliament in our own way,” he said.
Low was defending Non-Constituency MPs Gerald Giam and Yee Jenn Jong's earlier calls for the government to spend on affordable and adequate health care, housing and retirement financing.
Both NMPs were then reminded by Minister of State for Trade and Industry and National Development, Lee Yi Shyan, of the pitfalls of a welfare state, citing the example of a debt-ridden Greece and its welfare system.
In rebuttal, Low said "it is high time the PAP MPs refrain from using this as a red herring to kill debate on alternative solutions and mechanisms to those proposed by the government."
Low added that the government had used the term "policy trade-offs" to defend decisions that benefited them instead of the people. Low gave the example of the decision to build the integrated resorts with casinos and the government "highlighted the benefits to our society over the related gaming and social ills -- never mind the trade-offs," said Low.
Low however did commend the PAP for its "resilience in response to ground reaction" and added that it was not the opposition MPs, but rather the voters that should really claim the credit for recent changes as they had voted more opposition in and that the result is that the PAP takes a serious look at what is happening.
Both Lim and Low also eventually agreed that national interest would remain above their own partisan ones.
In my opinion Lim Swee Say is just another useless Minister.
Think carefully what had he contributed since taking office since 1996. Now he is a Minister in Prime Minister Office doing God’s know what.
What Low pointed out here is nothing new and the Men-In-White had been smoking out and pushing the reality away again and again.
It just gave the man on the street a feeling that the Men-In-White are not willing to scarify there high salaries for the progress of the national at all. They also chose to bury their head in the ground telling themselves there is not much problem with the county since they win most of the parliament seats.
But they forgot how unfair the election process was.
The fact is our Minsters are over paid for the quality of work they provided. Period!
So take a damn pay cut and work you ass off dear Ministers!
People will see and judge for themselves and will choose to keep you around if they deem you are good.
No need to fight for the credits with the opposition. This only reflects how desperate you are.
Lee Yi Shyan also sprouted nonsense but saying it will be the end of the world for Singapore if the government makes health care, housing and retirement financing more affordable.
If the government can’t even or don’t want to work to improve the basic necessity for its people then it is only correct that it is to be replaced.
Yahoo! Newsroom – Sat, Oct 22, 2011
Workers' Party chief Low Thia Khiang and Labour chief Lim Swee Say from People's Action Party (PAP) locked horns during the final day of the 12th Parliament's first meeting on Friday.
As the last speaker to speak from the opposition bench, Low -- the MP for Aljunied GRC -- took aim at Minister Lim Swee Say’s oft-repeated slogan of “cheaper, better, faster” and said that “perhaps we will start to see better, faster ministers at work and perhaps cheaper (ones) after the ministerial salary review is completed”.
He also urged the government to ask itself why Singaporeans commonly perceived the government to be "more concerned with paying its ministers well than about the welfare of the people."
In reply, Lim – who is the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office as well as chief of the NTUC labour movement —said that his “cheaper, better, faster” slogan was referring to products and services and that comparisons were unfair.
“There’s a fundamental difference,” he said in his speech. “What the NTUC and the tripartite partners and pursuing are cheaper, better, faster products and services, and a cheaper, better, faster economy, not a cheaper, better, faster workforce.”
The East Coast GRC MP also said he was at a loss for words when Low said he felt that ministers served out of self-interest, accusing opposition MPs of taking credit for "the good things" that the government has done since the May General Election by saying that the presence of opposition MPs have brought about policy changes.
Separately, Low also urged the People’s Action Party to refrain from using “doom and gloom” scenarios when debating health care and welfare policy trade-offs.
“I urge the PAP to step out of the shadow of doom and gloom of certain pitfalls of Western liberal democracy and work towards a First World Parliament in our own way,” he said.
Low was defending Non-Constituency MPs Gerald Giam and Yee Jenn Jong's earlier calls for the government to spend on affordable and adequate health care, housing and retirement financing.
Both NMPs were then reminded by Minister of State for Trade and Industry and National Development, Lee Yi Shyan, of the pitfalls of a welfare state, citing the example of a debt-ridden Greece and its welfare system.
In rebuttal, Low said "it is high time the PAP MPs refrain from using this as a red herring to kill debate on alternative solutions and mechanisms to those proposed by the government."
Low added that the government had used the term "policy trade-offs" to defend decisions that benefited them instead of the people. Low gave the example of the decision to build the integrated resorts with casinos and the government "highlighted the benefits to our society over the related gaming and social ills -- never mind the trade-offs," said Low.
Low however did commend the PAP for its "resilience in response to ground reaction" and added that it was not the opposition MPs, but rather the voters that should really claim the credit for recent changes as they had voted more opposition in and that the result is that the PAP takes a serious look at what is happening.
Both Lim and Low also eventually agreed that national interest would remain above their own partisan ones.
In my opinion Lim Swee Say is just another useless Minister.
Think carefully what had he contributed since taking office since 1996. Now he is a Minister in Prime Minister Office doing God’s know what.
What Low pointed out here is nothing new and the Men-In-White had been smoking out and pushing the reality away again and again.
It just gave the man on the street a feeling that the Men-In-White are not willing to scarify there high salaries for the progress of the national at all. They also chose to bury their head in the ground telling themselves there is not much problem with the county since they win most of the parliament seats.
But they forgot how unfair the election process was.
The fact is our Minsters are over paid for the quality of work they provided. Period!
So take a damn pay cut and work you ass off dear Ministers!
People will see and judge for themselves and will choose to keep you around if they deem you are good.
No need to fight for the credits with the opposition. This only reflects how desperate you are.
Lee Yi Shyan also sprouted nonsense but saying it will be the end of the world for Singapore if the government makes health care, housing and retirement financing more affordable.
If the government can’t even or don’t want to work to improve the basic necessity for its people then it is only correct that it is to be replaced.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Shocking quality of our defence minister.
All NS men treated equally regardless of background: Ng Eng Hen
20 October 2011
SINGAPORE: Singapore's Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said his ministry is acutely aware that all NS men must be treated equally, regardless of their background.
Dr Ng said the equal treatment for national service has been and must remain a cardinal principle, because without strict adherence to this fundamental tenet, the commitment to NS will be severely eroded and the institution of NS weakened.
Replying to questions in Parliament on the disruption of Dr Patrick Tan, the son of President Tony Tan Keng Yam, Dr Ng said the disruption was in accordance with prevailing policies to obtain his medical degree. Also, a longer period was granted to those admitted to US medical schools.
He assured Singaporeans that neither Dr Patrick Tan, nor any other individual who has disrupted, was given any preferential treatment because of their "connections".
Dr Ng said the policy to allow full time national servicemen to disrupt for medical studies in Singapore dates back to 1973. However, he added that from 1992, disruption for overseas medical studies was no longer allowed as the number of local medical graduates had met SAF's needs.
Dr Patrick Tan deferred his NS for 12 years for a PhD. He re-enlisted in 2000 after having obtained both his medical degree and PhD, and was deployed to the Defence Medical Research Institute in view of his training.
Dr Ng said: "There was no preferential treatment given to Patrick Tan, or any other individual who has disrupted, because of their 'connections'. Let me emphasise to all, including commanders on the ground, that no NS man should be accorded preferential treatment.
"I would like to further assure Singaporeans that Mindef implements a policy of selective disruption for university studies fairly and openly, in accordance with existing criteria. Mindef shall henceforth publish the list of all those disrupted for university (education) annually on a routine basis for public scrutiny."
Isn’t it amazing that the sort of crabs one can says.
Can MINDEF please explain why did you ask me to declare do I have a relative in the SAF and if so what is his/her rank on the first day of my recruit life if there is no preference treatment?
Oh I forgot Cedric Foo answered that a few years ago, he practically said MINDEF indentified white horses so to ENSURE they will not be given preference treatment.
Dumb ass! If really no preference treatment, there should not be any identification at all so commanders have to be fair to each and every soldier.
Ng Eng Hen is beating around the bush here when trying to explain Toni’s Son case.
Basically he just blamed it on old policies.
He failed to explain base on what did Patrick was granted his disruption, he failed to give a statistic on how many applied and rejected during that periods and who is in the committee that review these.
Was Tony Tan the then Minister of Defence in the reviewing committee? If not did the committee know Patrick was Toni’s Son?
This is important as, Gosh! Who will reject your boss son’s application you tell me.
Eng Hen also failed to tell us how many other were given a 12 years deferrer and how many others were posted to Defence Medical Research doing lab work while attaining a Sergeant rank during National Service.
Was this post specially created for Patrick? If not which other NSF were in this position before and after Patrick and please do also tell us what Patrick contributed during his time there.
We are not stupid like you Eng Hen.
20 October 2011
SINGAPORE: Singapore's Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said his ministry is acutely aware that all NS men must be treated equally, regardless of their background.
Dr Ng said the equal treatment for national service has been and must remain a cardinal principle, because without strict adherence to this fundamental tenet, the commitment to NS will be severely eroded and the institution of NS weakened.
Replying to questions in Parliament on the disruption of Dr Patrick Tan, the son of President Tony Tan Keng Yam, Dr Ng said the disruption was in accordance with prevailing policies to obtain his medical degree. Also, a longer period was granted to those admitted to US medical schools.
He assured Singaporeans that neither Dr Patrick Tan, nor any other individual who has disrupted, was given any preferential treatment because of their "connections".
Dr Ng said the policy to allow full time national servicemen to disrupt for medical studies in Singapore dates back to 1973. However, he added that from 1992, disruption for overseas medical studies was no longer allowed as the number of local medical graduates had met SAF's needs.
Dr Patrick Tan deferred his NS for 12 years for a PhD. He re-enlisted in 2000 after having obtained both his medical degree and PhD, and was deployed to the Defence Medical Research Institute in view of his training.
Dr Ng said: "There was no preferential treatment given to Patrick Tan, or any other individual who has disrupted, because of their 'connections'. Let me emphasise to all, including commanders on the ground, that no NS man should be accorded preferential treatment.
"I would like to further assure Singaporeans that Mindef implements a policy of selective disruption for university studies fairly and openly, in accordance with existing criteria. Mindef shall henceforth publish the list of all those disrupted for university (education) annually on a routine basis for public scrutiny."
Isn’t it amazing that the sort of crabs one can says.
Can MINDEF please explain why did you ask me to declare do I have a relative in the SAF and if so what is his/her rank on the first day of my recruit life if there is no preference treatment?
Oh I forgot Cedric Foo answered that a few years ago, he practically said MINDEF indentified white horses so to ENSURE they will not be given preference treatment.
Dumb ass! If really no preference treatment, there should not be any identification at all so commanders have to be fair to each and every soldier.
Ng Eng Hen is beating around the bush here when trying to explain Toni’s Son case.
Basically he just blamed it on old policies.
He failed to explain base on what did Patrick was granted his disruption, he failed to give a statistic on how many applied and rejected during that periods and who is in the committee that review these.
Was Tony Tan the then Minister of Defence in the reviewing committee? If not did the committee know Patrick was Toni’s Son?
This is important as, Gosh! Who will reject your boss son’s application you tell me.
Eng Hen also failed to tell us how many other were given a 12 years deferrer and how many others were posted to Defence Medical Research doing lab work while attaining a Sergeant rank during National Service.
Was this post specially created for Patrick? If not which other NSF were in this position before and after Patrick and please do also tell us what Patrick contributed during his time there.
We are not stupid like you Eng Hen.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Failed to do your job? Well just put others down.
Bhutan is not the 'Shangri-la on earth', says Khaw
19 October 2011
SINGAPORE: The measure of happiness has been a topic of debate in Parliament over the last few days, and constant references to Bhutan have been made as well.
National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan joined the debate, saying he visited the small nation a few years ago and the romanticised version of the ancient kingdom did not fit the reality he saw there.
In his speech in Parliament on Wednesday, he said Bhutan is not the "Shangri-la on earth" that some make it out to be.
Mr Khaw said: "Most of the time, I saw unhappy people, toiling in the field, worried about the next harvest and whether there would be buyers for their products. They have studied us because Singapore is also a tiny nation, living next to big neighbours.
"We have successfully transited from third world to first, and managed to create a functioning and harmonious society for our people. In their minds, Singapore could well be the Shangri-la and they want Bhutan to emulate Singapore."
Meanwhile, Minister of State for Manpower and National Development Tan Chuan-Jin weighed in on the discussion on what some perceive to be the government's obsession with economic growth at all costs.
He said the pursuit of GDP should not be an end but a means to an end.
Mr Tan said the main preoccupation at weekly Cabinet meetings has been to provide for Singaporeans and Singapore.
He added that the government is not perfect and there are things that it can do better and it will do its utmost.
"Life cannot be whittled down into an efficient equation, however effective it may be. Not everything is an economic digit; some of the most important things in life cannot be quantified. At the end of it all, it is about us as Singaporeans, and the future we want to build for our children. And we as the government must have the courage to play our role to lead and do the right things," said Mr Tan.
Instead of doing his job improving the life of Singaporean and making Singapore a nice place to live in, Khaw Boon Wah has to gunned down Bhutan as they are measuring their people happiness index.
So Boon Wah said he saw many unhappy people there toiling the field, worried about the next harvest and whether there would be buyers for their products. Hey you don’t have to go all the way there to see unhappy people. Look at your own country!
Isn’t most Singaporean working long hours days after days worrying about our rice bowl and high cost living and whether will there be a pay cut or will we lose our job to cheap foreign workers soon.
In my mind Singapore in the last county in the world that will be the Shangri-la and I nearly chock on my breakfast when I read Boon Wah suggestion.
For God’s sake we are not even close, Boon Wah where have you been?! Come down from your ivory tower and see for yourself!
Newbie Minister Chan went on saying the government is not perfect. Well if you are the most expensive team in the world you jolly well be damned it!
19 October 2011
SINGAPORE: The measure of happiness has been a topic of debate in Parliament over the last few days, and constant references to Bhutan have been made as well.
National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan joined the debate, saying he visited the small nation a few years ago and the romanticised version of the ancient kingdom did not fit the reality he saw there.
In his speech in Parliament on Wednesday, he said Bhutan is not the "Shangri-la on earth" that some make it out to be.
Mr Khaw said: "Most of the time, I saw unhappy people, toiling in the field, worried about the next harvest and whether there would be buyers for their products. They have studied us because Singapore is also a tiny nation, living next to big neighbours.
"We have successfully transited from third world to first, and managed to create a functioning and harmonious society for our people. In their minds, Singapore could well be the Shangri-la and they want Bhutan to emulate Singapore."
Meanwhile, Minister of State for Manpower and National Development Tan Chuan-Jin weighed in on the discussion on what some perceive to be the government's obsession with economic growth at all costs.
He said the pursuit of GDP should not be an end but a means to an end.
Mr Tan said the main preoccupation at weekly Cabinet meetings has been to provide for Singaporeans and Singapore.
He added that the government is not perfect and there are things that it can do better and it will do its utmost.
"Life cannot be whittled down into an efficient equation, however effective it may be. Not everything is an economic digit; some of the most important things in life cannot be quantified. At the end of it all, it is about us as Singaporeans, and the future we want to build for our children. And we as the government must have the courage to play our role to lead and do the right things," said Mr Tan.
Instead of doing his job improving the life of Singaporean and making Singapore a nice place to live in, Khaw Boon Wah has to gunned down Bhutan as they are measuring their people happiness index.
So Boon Wah said he saw many unhappy people there toiling the field, worried about the next harvest and whether there would be buyers for their products. Hey you don’t have to go all the way there to see unhappy people. Look at your own country!
Isn’t most Singaporean working long hours days after days worrying about our rice bowl and high cost living and whether will there be a pay cut or will we lose our job to cheap foreign workers soon.
In my mind Singapore in the last county in the world that will be the Shangri-la and I nearly chock on my breakfast when I read Boon Wah suggestion.
For God’s sake we are not even close, Boon Wah where have you been?! Come down from your ivory tower and see for yourself!
Newbie Minister Chan went on saying the government is not perfect. Well if you are the most expensive team in the world you jolly well be damned it!
Friday, October 14, 2011
Equality is what the Elites tell you when they need your votes
Our diversity must not divide us: President Tan
10 October 2011
SINGAPORE: President Tony Tan Keng Yam has called on Singaporeans not to allow diversity to divide the country.
A key theme of his Opening Address to the 12th Parliament is how Singapore has to manage an increasingly diverse population, with different demands, expectations and needs, and still remain a cohesive society.
Dr Tan acknowledged that Singapore's politics is becoming more diverse and open, as more people are contending to represent different groups and interests.
"This is positive for Singapore. But in the heat of the political tussle, we must not forget that we all share the same goal, namely serving the people," he said.
"Hence all sides must take a long-term, national perspective, put society's interests above their own, and find the right way forward together despite different views and preferences. Only by getting our politics right and keeping it constructive and responsible will Singapore make progress."
President Tan shared a word of caution that Singaporeans should not forget to be sensitive to issues which can divide society.
"Our diversity must not divide us. Fault lines in our society have to be carefully managed. We have done well in strengthening racial and religious harmony. Now we must try hard to prevent a new fault line from forming between local-born Singaporeans and recent immigrants," he said.
"The government is slowing the inflow to ensure that new arrivals not only contribute economically, but also embrace our values and integrate into our society. Singaporeans, for our part, should help them become part of our Singapore family, just as our forefathers settled here in earlier generations."
President Tan said the govern¬ment will work closely with the people, engage Singaporeans more extensively on issues, tap their ideas and foster a greater sense of shared ownership.
"Singaporeans are active partners in our shared future, not passive bystanders as we progress. Citizens need to make the effort to think through the issues, weigh the options, and make the compromises and choices," he said.
One platform for such an engagement is the new media.
However he added: "On the Internet, truth is not easily distinguished from misinformation. Anonymity is often abused. Harsh, intemperate voices often drown out moderate, considered views.
"Other countries struggle with this problem too. We must find ways to use the new media constructively, to connect with the digital generation and sustain fruitful conversations on issues concerning us all."
President Tan also outlined some of the plans the government has in mind for different segments of society including the lower income, middle income and those who have done exceptionally well.
He also mentioned senior citizens and the younger generation. He said the underlying objective of the government's programmes for the people is to ensure that all citizens will always have a place in Singapore regardless of their background, religion or race.
Dr Tan said: "To achieve this, our economy must grow. This is basic to improving our lives. High rates of growth will become more challenging as we grapple with the limits of our land area and population size, and as our income level reaches that of developed countries. But we should still make 3-5 percent growth per year, and bring everyone along, provided we work together closely and wisely."
He added: "Our success is defined not just by material progress but also by our values and ideals. We want a fair and just society that ensures the well-being of every citizen; a gracious and compassionate community whose members care for one another; and a truly special Singapore, where our children can grow to be the best that they can be."
For lower-income Singaporeans, Dr Tan said Singa¬pore will continue to be a country where they could improve themselves and do well as the country progresses.
For the majority in the middle, President Tan said Singapore will always be a country where they can enjoy the fruits of their labour and have ample opportunities to move ahead.
For those who do exceptionally well, Singapore will continue to offer many opportunities to excel - a secure, nurturing base camp from which they could scale the heights of the world, said the President.
For senior citizens, Dr Tan said Singapore will always be their home where they can spend their silver years with peace of mind.
And for the young, "Singapore will be the place to pursue your dreams and fulfil your promise", said the President.
Concluding his address to the Parliament, President Tan said that very few countries have been able to achieve what Singapore has done and he called on every Singaporean to build on the strong foundation together for a better life and a brighter tomorrow.
Undoing community bonding
ST FORUM 13 OCT
LAST Saturday, a friend invited me to an event organised by the People's Association (PA) at Cheng San Community Club.
The ticket cost $12 per person, and a high-tea buffet was included. In attendance were Ang Mo Kio GRC MP Ang Hin Kee and PA chief executive director Yam Ah Mee.
While I appreciate the efforts of the PA and community clubs in organising such community-bonding events, it left me with reservations.
I was flabbergasted to discover that the organising committee, judges, sponsors and other VIPs enjoyed their high-tea in a closed air-conditioned room while the rest of the guests had theirs outside under a tent.
Why was there a 'divide' for an occasion aimed at community bonding?
On the same day, across the road from the PA event, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong was officiating at an event marking the completion of an upgrading programme.
According to press reports, he emphasised that the Government was determined to improve citizens' lives, and this included community bonding.
What happened was unfortunate because the grassroots leaders who organised the community-bonding event were undoing what the Government is trying to achieve.
Lum Yan Meng
I simply love it when the Government scored own goals.
Actions speak louder the words and this double standards by PA just threw Toni’s words out of the window.
I borrow a quote from Animal Farm:
“All Animals are equal, but some are more equal than others” - George Orwell, Animal Farm.
10 October 2011
SINGAPORE: President Tony Tan Keng Yam has called on Singaporeans not to allow diversity to divide the country.
A key theme of his Opening Address to the 12th Parliament is how Singapore has to manage an increasingly diverse population, with different demands, expectations and needs, and still remain a cohesive society.
Dr Tan acknowledged that Singapore's politics is becoming more diverse and open, as more people are contending to represent different groups and interests.
"This is positive for Singapore. But in the heat of the political tussle, we must not forget that we all share the same goal, namely serving the people," he said.
"Hence all sides must take a long-term, national perspective, put society's interests above their own, and find the right way forward together despite different views and preferences. Only by getting our politics right and keeping it constructive and responsible will Singapore make progress."
President Tan shared a word of caution that Singaporeans should not forget to be sensitive to issues which can divide society.
"Our diversity must not divide us. Fault lines in our society have to be carefully managed. We have done well in strengthening racial and religious harmony. Now we must try hard to prevent a new fault line from forming between local-born Singaporeans and recent immigrants," he said.
"The government is slowing the inflow to ensure that new arrivals not only contribute economically, but also embrace our values and integrate into our society. Singaporeans, for our part, should help them become part of our Singapore family, just as our forefathers settled here in earlier generations."
President Tan said the govern¬ment will work closely with the people, engage Singaporeans more extensively on issues, tap their ideas and foster a greater sense of shared ownership.
"Singaporeans are active partners in our shared future, not passive bystanders as we progress. Citizens need to make the effort to think through the issues, weigh the options, and make the compromises and choices," he said.
One platform for such an engagement is the new media.
However he added: "On the Internet, truth is not easily distinguished from misinformation. Anonymity is often abused. Harsh, intemperate voices often drown out moderate, considered views.
"Other countries struggle with this problem too. We must find ways to use the new media constructively, to connect with the digital generation and sustain fruitful conversations on issues concerning us all."
President Tan also outlined some of the plans the government has in mind for different segments of society including the lower income, middle income and those who have done exceptionally well.
He also mentioned senior citizens and the younger generation. He said the underlying objective of the government's programmes for the people is to ensure that all citizens will always have a place in Singapore regardless of their background, religion or race.
Dr Tan said: "To achieve this, our economy must grow. This is basic to improving our lives. High rates of growth will become more challenging as we grapple with the limits of our land area and population size, and as our income level reaches that of developed countries. But we should still make 3-5 percent growth per year, and bring everyone along, provided we work together closely and wisely."
He added: "Our success is defined not just by material progress but also by our values and ideals. We want a fair and just society that ensures the well-being of every citizen; a gracious and compassionate community whose members care for one another; and a truly special Singapore, where our children can grow to be the best that they can be."
For lower-income Singaporeans, Dr Tan said Singa¬pore will continue to be a country where they could improve themselves and do well as the country progresses.
For the majority in the middle, President Tan said Singapore will always be a country where they can enjoy the fruits of their labour and have ample opportunities to move ahead.
For those who do exceptionally well, Singapore will continue to offer many opportunities to excel - a secure, nurturing base camp from which they could scale the heights of the world, said the President.
For senior citizens, Dr Tan said Singapore will always be their home where they can spend their silver years with peace of mind.
And for the young, "Singapore will be the place to pursue your dreams and fulfil your promise", said the President.
Concluding his address to the Parliament, President Tan said that very few countries have been able to achieve what Singapore has done and he called on every Singaporean to build on the strong foundation together for a better life and a brighter tomorrow.
Undoing community bonding
ST FORUM 13 OCT
LAST Saturday, a friend invited me to an event organised by the People's Association (PA) at Cheng San Community Club.
The ticket cost $12 per person, and a high-tea buffet was included. In attendance were Ang Mo Kio GRC MP Ang Hin Kee and PA chief executive director Yam Ah Mee.
While I appreciate the efforts of the PA and community clubs in organising such community-bonding events, it left me with reservations.
I was flabbergasted to discover that the organising committee, judges, sponsors and other VIPs enjoyed their high-tea in a closed air-conditioned room while the rest of the guests had theirs outside under a tent.
Why was there a 'divide' for an occasion aimed at community bonding?
On the same day, across the road from the PA event, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong was officiating at an event marking the completion of an upgrading programme.
According to press reports, he emphasised that the Government was determined to improve citizens' lives, and this included community bonding.
What happened was unfortunate because the grassroots leaders who organised the community-bonding event were undoing what the Government is trying to achieve.
Lum Yan Meng
I simply love it when the Government scored own goals.
Actions speak louder the words and this double standards by PA just threw Toni’s words out of the window.
I borrow a quote from Animal Farm:
“All Animals are equal, but some are more equal than others” - George Orwell, Animal Farm.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
The miser
Govt to give US$100k to Red Cross for flood-hit nations
The Singapore Government will contribute $127,000 to kick-start the Singapore Red Cross' appeal. - Tue, Oct 11, 2011
The Singapore Government will contribute US$100,000 (S$127,000) to kick-start the Singapore Red Cross' appeal for donations for Thailand, Cambodia and other countries in the region affected by recent floods, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said yesterday.
Talk about being a miser, and what ironies that the most expensive government in the world is donating a mere US$100,000 to various countries affect by the flood.
For God’s sake if you so stingy please don’t report this as you will become a joke.
To put into perspective Lee Hsien Loong’s Salary is about US$2,856,930 and our Minister earn about US$1,600,000 a year.
Gosh US$100,000 is even less then the monthly pay of the greedy PM, hey it’s even less then what a Minister’s monthly salary.
Sad.
The Singapore Government will contribute $127,000 to kick-start the Singapore Red Cross' appeal. - Tue, Oct 11, 2011
The Singapore Government will contribute US$100,000 (S$127,000) to kick-start the Singapore Red Cross' appeal for donations for Thailand, Cambodia and other countries in the region affected by recent floods, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said yesterday.
Talk about being a miser, and what ironies that the most expensive government in the world is donating a mere US$100,000 to various countries affect by the flood.
For God’s sake if you so stingy please don’t report this as you will become a joke.
To put into perspective Lee Hsien Loong’s Salary is about US$2,856,930 and our Minister earn about US$1,600,000 a year.
Gosh US$100,000 is even less then the monthly pay of the greedy PM, hey it’s even less then what a Minister’s monthly salary.
Sad.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Yet another reminder of their greed.
They tried to do it quitely but here I am keeping it on record for yet anther fare increase for our public transport.
So folk you already paid more over the weekend.
Bloody blood suckers.
Thursday, October 06, 2011
Long overdue.
Six PAP Central Exco members step down
The memberse had proposed to step down to facilitate leadership renewal in the party. -myp
Thu, Oct 06, 2011
The People's Action Party (PAP) Central Executive Committee (CEC) has accepted the resignation of six members who had proposed to step down to facilitate leadership renewal in the party.
They are Mr Lee Kuan Yew, Mr Goh Chok Tong, Mr Lim Boon Heng, Mr Wong Kan Seng, Mr George Yeo and Mrs Lim Hwee Hua.
The CEC has also decided to confer upon Mr Lee and Mr Goh the title of Honorary Past Secretary-General, in recognition of their outstanding service and seminal contributions to the PAP and Singapore.
The new members to fill these six vacancies will be chosen through a poll of PAP branch chairmen and cadres representing PAP branches, district committees, the Women's Wing and Young PAP.
The selection is expected to be completed by next month's party convention.
It is only right that they step down and they are no more in the cabinet. I can’t believe it took Lee Kuan Yew 11 years after he step down as Prime Minister and Goh Chock Tong 7 years to do this.
I guess that pay must be good.
Please note the infamous Mah is still in there!! Gosh!
But I still think Lee Kuan Yew will still has some influent in the Party one way or another.
So now Woody has a super long title.
Honorary Past Secretary-General of People Action Party Emeritus Senior Minister MP for Marine Parade GRC Goh Chock Tong!
Must need a very big name card to fit all that in.
The memberse had proposed to step down to facilitate leadership renewal in the party. -myp
Thu, Oct 06, 2011
The People's Action Party (PAP) Central Executive Committee (CEC) has accepted the resignation of six members who had proposed to step down to facilitate leadership renewal in the party.
They are Mr Lee Kuan Yew, Mr Goh Chok Tong, Mr Lim Boon Heng, Mr Wong Kan Seng, Mr George Yeo and Mrs Lim Hwee Hua.
The CEC has also decided to confer upon Mr Lee and Mr Goh the title of Honorary Past Secretary-General, in recognition of their outstanding service and seminal contributions to the PAP and Singapore.
The new members to fill these six vacancies will be chosen through a poll of PAP branch chairmen and cadres representing PAP branches, district committees, the Women's Wing and Young PAP.
The selection is expected to be completed by next month's party convention.
It is only right that they step down and they are no more in the cabinet. I can’t believe it took Lee Kuan Yew 11 years after he step down as Prime Minister and Goh Chock Tong 7 years to do this.
I guess that pay must be good.
Please note the infamous Mah is still in there!! Gosh!
But I still think Lee Kuan Yew will still has some influent in the Party one way or another.
So now Woody has a super long title.
Honorary Past Secretary-General of People Action Party Emeritus Senior Minister MP for Marine Parade GRC Goh Chock Tong!
Must need a very big name card to fit all that in.
Tuesday, October 04, 2011
Smoke out by Lui.
Transport upgrading plans on track
Bus-stops islandwide to be expanded into 'bus hubs'; MRT network to reach more commuters
Oct 04, 2011
SINGAPORE - Besides getting commuters onto the train or the bus, Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew is also looking at improving their journey to the station, while arming passengers with more timely and accurate information to decide on their commute.
Mr Lui revealed in a media interview that the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is starting an internal trial this month to test out a commuter information system which would state "the condition of the bus" - whether the commuter can sit, can stand or must wait for the next bus. The trial is to last for three months.
Yesterday, the LTA announced it would be upgrading and expanding 35 major bus-stops islandwide into bus hubs. When completed by end 2013, the upgraded bus-stops will come with lengthened bus bays, expanded bus shelters, and real-time bus information panels.
These improvements will reduce the amount of time a bus has to spend at the bus-stop and, in turn, help shorten waiting times and improve journey times for commuters. About six in 10 of the 5.5 million public transport journeys made daily are on buses.
The Transport Minister, however, noted that trains currently remain the preferred mode of transport among commuters. Thus, plans are being finalised for additional lines and extensions beyond 2020 as part of the 2011 Concept Plan Review to improve the rail network and serve new areas.
These plans are beyond the S$20 billion invested in existing rail lines and the S$60 billion for new rail lines committed under the Land Transport Masterplan, unveiled in 2008.
The new rail lines under the masterplan include the Thomson Line and the Eastern Region Line. Mr Lui said that the Thomson Line alignment is "almost done", but the Eastern Region Line is proving "more challenging" and "needs to be look at more carefully".
The minister, however, declined to disclose further details on the alignments, citing commercial sensitivities. But he added that new housing concentrations and new sub-regional centres will be factored in when planning the new rail lines.
Mr Lui revealed the Circle Line Extension from Promenade to Marina Bay will be opened in January.
With more rail lines being planned and built, the aim is to double the number of households that live within 400m or 600m of an MRT station. Currently, around 400,000 households live within 600m of an MRT station, while 200,000 households live within 400m.
Mr Lui is also aiming to improve pedestrian connectivity to transport nodes and to "make the walk a little more comfortable".
Thus, pedestrian connectivity to transport nodes will be enhanced, through the development of more sheltered walkways, underground pedestrian networks, and links to nearby buildings.
The fact is I do not see much improvement from the Transport Operators.
In fact I am already getting too tired to write in to complaints against them as these idiots are just greedy corporation that want to pay their CEOs millions at the expense of poor public transports users.
The solution to improve public transport system is simple but no body actually want to look at is seriously as it will affect bottom lines.
Firstly, just improve the frequency of trains and buses damned it!
Overcrowding is the main problem in this country with more the 5 millions resident.
Secondly, has dedicated bus lanes in all major roads to speed up buses.
Increasing train’s networks is a good idea too.
Commuter information system is crab if it keeps telling you the next 3 buses are full and too bad you can’t get on.
There is a lot we can do to improve public transports in Singapore but do identify the core problems and solve it.
Do not pacify the pubic by just having some cosmetic improvements.
This will cause the public to vote for a new Minster next time.
Bus-stops islandwide to be expanded into 'bus hubs'; MRT network to reach more commuters
Oct 04, 2011
SINGAPORE - Besides getting commuters onto the train or the bus, Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew is also looking at improving their journey to the station, while arming passengers with more timely and accurate information to decide on their commute.
Mr Lui revealed in a media interview that the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is starting an internal trial this month to test out a commuter information system which would state "the condition of the bus" - whether the commuter can sit, can stand or must wait for the next bus. The trial is to last for three months.
Yesterday, the LTA announced it would be upgrading and expanding 35 major bus-stops islandwide into bus hubs. When completed by end 2013, the upgraded bus-stops will come with lengthened bus bays, expanded bus shelters, and real-time bus information panels.
These improvements will reduce the amount of time a bus has to spend at the bus-stop and, in turn, help shorten waiting times and improve journey times for commuters. About six in 10 of the 5.5 million public transport journeys made daily are on buses.
The Transport Minister, however, noted that trains currently remain the preferred mode of transport among commuters. Thus, plans are being finalised for additional lines and extensions beyond 2020 as part of the 2011 Concept Plan Review to improve the rail network and serve new areas.
These plans are beyond the S$20 billion invested in existing rail lines and the S$60 billion for new rail lines committed under the Land Transport Masterplan, unveiled in 2008.
The new rail lines under the masterplan include the Thomson Line and the Eastern Region Line. Mr Lui said that the Thomson Line alignment is "almost done", but the Eastern Region Line is proving "more challenging" and "needs to be look at more carefully".
The minister, however, declined to disclose further details on the alignments, citing commercial sensitivities. But he added that new housing concentrations and new sub-regional centres will be factored in when planning the new rail lines.
Mr Lui revealed the Circle Line Extension from Promenade to Marina Bay will be opened in January.
With more rail lines being planned and built, the aim is to double the number of households that live within 400m or 600m of an MRT station. Currently, around 400,000 households live within 600m of an MRT station, while 200,000 households live within 400m.
Mr Lui is also aiming to improve pedestrian connectivity to transport nodes and to "make the walk a little more comfortable".
Thus, pedestrian connectivity to transport nodes will be enhanced, through the development of more sheltered walkways, underground pedestrian networks, and links to nearby buildings.
The fact is I do not see much improvement from the Transport Operators.
In fact I am already getting too tired to write in to complaints against them as these idiots are just greedy corporation that want to pay their CEOs millions at the expense of poor public transports users.
The solution to improve public transport system is simple but no body actually want to look at is seriously as it will affect bottom lines.
Firstly, just improve the frequency of trains and buses damned it!
Overcrowding is the main problem in this country with more the 5 millions resident.
Secondly, has dedicated bus lanes in all major roads to speed up buses.
Increasing train’s networks is a good idea too.
Commuter information system is crab if it keeps telling you the next 3 buses are full and too bad you can’t get on.
There is a lot we can do to improve public transports in Singapore but do identify the core problems and solve it.
Do not pacify the pubic by just having some cosmetic improvements.
This will cause the public to vote for a new Minster next time.
Monday, October 03, 2011
Stupid events that seem harmless.
2011-2012 :: The Biggest Eating Competition in the Region
Stomach this! CP Biggest Eater Competition returns for a second year – bigger, more exciting and challenging than ever!
To be held in 4 major cities across the region: Melbourne, Singapore, Hong Kong and Bangkok, the event is slated to be the biggest eating competition yet in Asia and outside the USA.
A myriad of international professional eaters including top-ranked eaters in the world will come together to showcase their jaw-dropping eating skills and battle for coveted honours at the various legs of the competition. The event will also see the first regional male and female champions crowned in Bangkok, Thailand – home to CP Foods!
Will World No. 1 Eater, American Joey Chestnut's eye-popping record of 380 shrimp wontons in 8 minutes be broken? Can World No. 2 Female Eater, US-based Chinese Juliet Lee retain her title as the biggest female eater with a clean sweep of 160 wontons?
Saw an advert on TV over the weekend promoting the above event.
I am surprise that eating competition is still happening in Singapore. To me it is just plain stupid.
Maybe people had forgotten this in 1989:
Coma youth who choked on mooncake dies
The youth who slipped into a coma after choking on a piece of mooncake in an eating competition last month died at the Singapore General Hospital yesterday morning.
Mr Suie Peng Cheong, 20, had been in a coma for 51 days days.The Secondary 5 student of St Teresa's High School was taken to the hospital where he was put under intensive care soon after the incident during a mooncake eating competition on Sentosa on Sept 9.
The contest was held to usher in the Mooncake Festival. It required contestants to eat a normal size mooncake in the shortest possible time and was jointly organised by the Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) and Shin Min Daily News.
A SDC spokesman had said that Mr Suie, who "ignored advice to drink tea to help wash down the mooncake", choked and then appeared to suffer from a fit.
On the way to hospital, two SDC staff members applied heart massage and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation on Mr Suie, who had difficulty in breathing.
On Sep 25, doctors operated on Mr Suie to allow him to breathe more easily.
The operation, known as a tracheostomy, involved cutting a small hole in the throat.
Mr Suie's mother, Madam Leong Lai Keng, confirmed that her son died at about 5 am yesterday. She said she was not with him when he died.
Madam Leong, 49, who had kept a daily vigil at her son's bedside, said: "I normally visit him in the day and leave in the evening. Friends and relatives would take over at night. I think some friends were with him when he passed away."
She added that early this month, Mr Suie's condition had improved a little.
"He was able to open his eyes a little and roll his eyeballs in our direction when we called out his name. He could slowly move his hand from the stomach to the chest level."
But Mr Suie's condition took a turn for the worse last week. Madam Leong
said: "He could not open his eyes anymore."
This article was first published in The Straits Times on October 30, 1989
There are many other ways to promote your brand or activities organiser can come up with to create vibes.
Eating competitions are dangerous and damaging to one health.
Check out more death around the globe,here, here, here and here.
Stomach this! CP Biggest Eater Competition returns for a second year – bigger, more exciting and challenging than ever!
To be held in 4 major cities across the region: Melbourne, Singapore, Hong Kong and Bangkok, the event is slated to be the biggest eating competition yet in Asia and outside the USA.
A myriad of international professional eaters including top-ranked eaters in the world will come together to showcase their jaw-dropping eating skills and battle for coveted honours at the various legs of the competition. The event will also see the first regional male and female champions crowned in Bangkok, Thailand – home to CP Foods!
Will World No. 1 Eater, American Joey Chestnut's eye-popping record of 380 shrimp wontons in 8 minutes be broken? Can World No. 2 Female Eater, US-based Chinese Juliet Lee retain her title as the biggest female eater with a clean sweep of 160 wontons?
Saw an advert on TV over the weekend promoting the above event.
I am surprise that eating competition is still happening in Singapore. To me it is just plain stupid.
Maybe people had forgotten this in 1989:
Coma youth who choked on mooncake dies
The youth who slipped into a coma after choking on a piece of mooncake in an eating competition last month died at the Singapore General Hospital yesterday morning.
Mr Suie Peng Cheong, 20, had been in a coma for 51 days days.The Secondary 5 student of St Teresa's High School was taken to the hospital where he was put under intensive care soon after the incident during a mooncake eating competition on Sentosa on Sept 9.
The contest was held to usher in the Mooncake Festival. It required contestants to eat a normal size mooncake in the shortest possible time and was jointly organised by the Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) and Shin Min Daily News.
A SDC spokesman had said that Mr Suie, who "ignored advice to drink tea to help wash down the mooncake", choked and then appeared to suffer from a fit.
On the way to hospital, two SDC staff members applied heart massage and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation on Mr Suie, who had difficulty in breathing.
On Sep 25, doctors operated on Mr Suie to allow him to breathe more easily.
The operation, known as a tracheostomy, involved cutting a small hole in the throat.
Mr Suie's mother, Madam Leong Lai Keng, confirmed that her son died at about 5 am yesterday. She said she was not with him when he died.
Madam Leong, 49, who had kept a daily vigil at her son's bedside, said: "I normally visit him in the day and leave in the evening. Friends and relatives would take over at night. I think some friends were with him when he passed away."
She added that early this month, Mr Suie's condition had improved a little.
"He was able to open his eyes a little and roll his eyeballs in our direction when we called out his name. He could slowly move his hand from the stomach to the chest level."
But Mr Suie's condition took a turn for the worse last week. Madam Leong
said: "He could not open his eyes anymore."
This article was first published in The Straits Times on October 30, 1989
There are many other ways to promote your brand or activities organiser can come up with to create vibes.
Eating competitions are dangerous and damaging to one health.
Check out more death around the globe,here, here, here and here.
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