Respect and tolerance are the cornerstones of society, not English language proficiency
On February 27th, the Secretary-General of the Workers’ Party, Pritam Singh, proposed in Parliament that English language proficiency be used as a selection criterion for new immigrants. Language, religion, and race are sensitive issues that can touch the nerves of many people, resulting in newspaper comments and public discussions. This proposal has no practical effect […]
PSP’s performance or lack of it gives opposition a bad name
It is clear that PSP got its seat in parliament because it succeeded in stirring a raw nerve among Singaporeans against foreign talent. Dr Tan Cheng Bock and his merry men found a simple political slogan for its campaign – anti-CECA. Before Aug 2019, “CECA” was not a widely known term. Yes, Singaporeans saw more […]
Disappointing CECA debate by PSP puts uncertainty over the party’s credibility
It was extremely disappointing to listen to PSP Leong Mun Wai in Parliament as he sought to exploit Singaporeans’ anxieties and play up xenophobia for PSP’s own political agenda. PSP had been against CECA since its formation It all started when Progress Singapore Party (PSP) chief Dr Tan Cheng Bock brought up the Comprehensive Economic […]
No real regional cooperation if China does not have trust of its neighbours: ESM Goh
In a keynote speech, ESM Goh Chok Tong said that there can be no real regional cooperation if China does not have the confidence and trust of its neighbours. Achieving real cooperation requires more than a change in the tone, style and language of public communications, he said. Mr Goh outlined 3 principles to reinvigorate […]
Managing the B. 1.617 variant first found in India and now in 44 countries
The World Health Organization said on Wednesday (12 May) that the B. 1.617 variant of the COVID-19 behind the acceleration of India’s explosive outbreak is found in at least 44 countries. This variant was first found in India in October 2020. Singapore has managed to keep it at bay for many months. With the variant […]
Why we can’t shut our borders like China, Australia and New Zealand
In his ministerial statement in Parliament (10 May), Education Minister Lawrence Wong who is also co-chair of the Multi-Ministry Task Force said larger, continental-sized or resource-rich countries like China, Australia and New Zealand can shut their doors and minimise the flow of people but Singapore cannot. “They are able to keep things going with their […]
Singapore and Australia sign Digital economy Agreement
The Signing of the Singapore-Australia Digital Economy Agreement (SADEA) on August 6 2020, marks a milestone in the long-standing and multi-faceted partnership between Singapore and Australia. It will allow our companies to take advantage of opportunities in the digital economy and tap on new technologies to create new digital products and services, Trade & Industry […]