Having observed so many recent newsreports with regard to the problems coming up in our society. Discomfort with the rapid (or not) influx of FTs, rising costs of living coupled with seemingly stagnant pay rises, steadily increasing housing prices, poor commuter experience + apparent increase in costs of commuting…
It made me think, what other worse situation could possibly result?
Among the numerous possibilities, one which I beliee to have significant importance: Loss in confidence with the gah-men.
And what could make one feel worse is the fact that the cause of this perception, is not because of the real (which is hard to measure and compare on its own) decline in the ability of them to deliver (on their promises), but because of the way in which their efforts and well-intentions are not effectively communicated and understood by the masses.
I get an increasingly nagging impression that they can no longer connect as well with Singaporeans anymore – this is especially to the younger generation, who, unlike their parents, have gone through thick and thin, and toiled blood and sweat together, and hence are more understanding and connected to the Government, are only most aware of the problems which they experience now, in an economical climate where rate of growth slows (our economy now being considered ‘developed’)*, and improvement to living standards is felt even much less.
The pragmatic, measured responses in which to deal with those real concerns raised by citizens and the many widespread problems in society occurring now, may sometimes do less good than hoped, and instead bring about more unhappiness and discontent… Past tried and tested methods may now be insufficient. The Gvt has to be careful with the way they handle ‘political PR’, lest initially harmless dissatisfaction becomes entrenched, and festers into something much worse, with serious consequences. Because while policies can be most effectively and elaborately planned, ultimately what I believe matters to the man on the street is the effect on the ground which he is able to take notice. And many a times, what stands in to fill the time gap (or lag) between the point of implementation and the final desired impact, would be the constant assurance by the policymakers themselves – most crucially, this done with the human touch and connection – such that the wait is patient, is understanding.
On the other hand, this could well be the opportune time for alternative opinions to be voiced, but most certainly with all good intents, for the improvement of society as well as the country, and not simply for the advancement of one’s own selfish and shallow beliefs. And definitely, not at the cost of social, and economical and governing stability.
Because of the circumstances in which I am in, and till I no longer have my current responsibilities to fulfill as a child and student, I may only stay at the sidelines and remain an observer. But the least I could do is to raise the interest of others, for better or for worse../
*Note: It should be noted however, that growth forecasts for the economy for the full-year is expected to be above 10%; various economists estimate between a 9% – even as high as 15% for GDP growth. But, experts say that this is an exceptional year, where production is only returning to pre-crisis levels, and where producers gearing up to prepare for future increase in demand by replenshing their stock and building more warehouses and reserving spare capacity. Hence, most expect growth in subsequent years to be lower. (Don’t worry, given these bullish growth, they also assured that inflation is not likely to be serious; hyperinflation most likely would not occur since import inflation and domestic demand inflation are effectively kept in check by MAS policies)
