It was not until the wee hours of Sunday's morning that the results of the Presidential Elections were out and it was because there was a recount of votes. Indeed, it was a close-fight between Dr Tony Tan and Dr Tan Cheng Bock. Ultimately, Dr Tony Tan is Singapore's new President.
It was a close call but thank goodness for small wonders. Sensibility won by a small percentage.
After all the fuss, I'm glad that we'll have relative peace for the next 6 years. I have enough of the personal attacks and undermining of the ruling party efforts.
This is the upward trend that is going to afflict Singapore for years to come: more and more people voting for the opposition and those affiliated with them. There is no stopping this wave. There is and will be increasing fragmentation in the society where the line is draw between 2 camps; supporters of the ruling party and those who are not.
I can't help but feel that as Singapore and the world progresses, humanity is lost. The world according to some people consists of themselves and their houses. They can only see how can this and that benefit me, how can my self-interest be met.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
What I want my President To Be
I want the President of Singapore to be a person with experience, dignity and ability to represent Singapore on the world stage. He must be a person who can hold his own in front of foreign dignitaries and head-of-states. He have to be Singapore's top diplomat.
I can hardly care for the "incentives" the candidates promise to bring to the people because how true that will be, no one knows. Let's be honest, where will he get the money to provide additional incentives to NS men and the lot? Out of his own pocket? Besides, how long do you think he can carry out this? One year, or maybe two?
These ideas are short-sighted and the people who vote because they can only see the benefits and care for their self-interests are completely irrational. Is that the kind of president they want? One who promises them "goodies" and an "alternate voice"?
It's disappointing that despite continuous emphasis on the role and duties of the president, there are people who just cannot look past their prejudices and tinted glasses. Their dislike for the ruling party spilled over to that of presidential elections.
On another note, is the ruling party of Singapore that bad? With the way things are going, you'd think that the party has done a great deal of injustice to Singaporeans.
If these people are really that disappointed with the system here, they ought to be shipped to Libya, where they can experience "true political injustice" and political unrest.
Furthermore, they are an ungrateful lot, I must say. Reaping in the benefits and yet pointing fingers when things are not up to their liking. The ruling party is not perfect, but they have done Singapore proud. They have provide accountability to the citizens all these years.
That being said, I am not confusing the role of the president with that of the Parliament or the ruling party. I am merely making things clear.
I can hardly care for the "incentives" the candidates promise to bring to the people because how true that will be, no one knows. Let's be honest, where will he get the money to provide additional incentives to NS men and the lot? Out of his own pocket? Besides, how long do you think he can carry out this? One year, or maybe two?
These ideas are short-sighted and the people who vote because they can only see the benefits and care for their self-interests are completely irrational. Is that the kind of president they want? One who promises them "goodies" and an "alternate voice"?
It's disappointing that despite continuous emphasis on the role and duties of the president, there are people who just cannot look past their prejudices and tinted glasses. Their dislike for the ruling party spilled over to that of presidential elections.
On another note, is the ruling party of Singapore that bad? With the way things are going, you'd think that the party has done a great deal of injustice to Singaporeans.
If these people are really that disappointed with the system here, they ought to be shipped to Libya, where they can experience "true political injustice" and political unrest.
Furthermore, they are an ungrateful lot, I must say. Reaping in the benefits and yet pointing fingers when things are not up to their liking. The ruling party is not perfect, but they have done Singapore proud. They have provide accountability to the citizens all these years.
That being said, I am not confusing the role of the president with that of the Parliament or the ruling party. I am merely making things clear.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Surviving University
University is not all it's cracked up to be. It's stressful and full of apprehension. My main goal is to survive and do well and graduate with a degree. The other things are just secondary.
I know why they say University life is lonely and it's true that you won't have deep friendships. Everyone is rushing to their own classes and lectures and to put in unkind term, for self benefits. It's almost like "making use" of people for that one module.
Oh well, my main concern is whether I can survive these uncharted waters that is the first semester. It's crucial to do well because it will give me the confidence I need to endure the next 5 semesters. On the other hand, it will crush me if I fail to do well and meet my expectations.
I'm not even thinking honours right now because it all depends on how I do and how well I can adjust to University life. I'll cross the bridge when the time comes.
I know why they say University life is lonely and it's true that you won't have deep friendships. Everyone is rushing to their own classes and lectures and to put in unkind term, for self benefits. It's almost like "making use" of people for that one module.
Oh well, my main concern is whether I can survive these uncharted waters that is the first semester. It's crucial to do well because it will give me the confidence I need to endure the next 5 semesters. On the other hand, it will crush me if I fail to do well and meet my expectations.
I'm not even thinking honours right now because it all depends on how I do and how well I can adjust to University life. I'll cross the bridge when the time comes.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Confidence for the Future?
It's not whether I have confidence for the future, it's I have no confidence in the people of Singapore. With recent happenings, one have to wonder if our values is starting to erode and deteriorate.
Presidential elections will be here on the 27th of August.
I have this thought that since the President of Singapore is supposed to be just and above the parliment that maybe, there will be not be that much protest about whether he was formerly part of the ruling party. But, I was wrong. Some people are still narrow-minded, short-sighted and hard-headed.
Despite re-emphasising on the role of the President, people and even some Presidential candidates seem not to get the gist of it. Maybe, they seek to change the system or play up citizens' feelings and expectations?
The President of Singapore is mostly a figurehead, I would have thought that is established by now. To put it bluntly, he will be a "puppet". The Prime Minister has the power of the government, whether you like it or not.
Don't make empty promises like promising to change this and that and raise expectations. Is this considered misleading? I know that some citizens are fired up by the thoughts of bringing changes but they are going to be disappointed.
Time and again, various parties have stated that 'keeping an eye' on the government is the opposition party's job, not that of a President.
Past and recent examples show that 'thinking of doing something' is almost always not the same of doing it. For example, one can say he will cut taxes but in reality, he will find that it's easier said than done.
Besides, one of the main duty of a president is to be a diplomat. He will be the one whom other head of states will meet.Needless to say, there has to be a certain bearing and demeanour in the way the President conduct himself to be a representation of Singapore. The way one speaks and carries himself will reflect on the image of Singapore. And let's be honest, first impressions do count.
I like the way an editor puts it, don't hide under the axiom "Let Singaporeans decide".
Presidential elections will be here on the 27th of August.
I have this thought that since the President of Singapore is supposed to be just and above the parliment that maybe, there will be not be that much protest about whether he was formerly part of the ruling party. But, I was wrong. Some people are still narrow-minded, short-sighted and hard-headed.
Despite re-emphasising on the role of the President, people and even some Presidential candidates seem not to get the gist of it. Maybe, they seek to change the system or play up citizens' feelings and expectations?
The President of Singapore is mostly a figurehead, I would have thought that is established by now. To put it bluntly, he will be a "puppet". The Prime Minister has the power of the government, whether you like it or not.
Don't make empty promises like promising to change this and that and raise expectations. Is this considered misleading? I know that some citizens are fired up by the thoughts of bringing changes but they are going to be disappointed.
Time and again, various parties have stated that 'keeping an eye' on the government is the opposition party's job, not that of a President.
Past and recent examples show that 'thinking of doing something' is almost always not the same of doing it. For example, one can say he will cut taxes but in reality, he will find that it's easier said than done.
Besides, one of the main duty of a president is to be a diplomat. He will be the one whom other head of states will meet.Needless to say, there has to be a certain bearing and demeanour in the way the President conduct himself to be a representation of Singapore. The way one speaks and carries himself will reflect on the image of Singapore. And let's be honest, first impressions do count.
I like the way an editor puts it, don't hide under the axiom "Let Singaporeans decide".
Friday, August 19, 2011
Not Rocket Science
Social work as a module is not my cup of tea.
First of all, I'm not exactly a person who is able to relate to people's problems easily. Empathy and compassion are not my strong points. I'm not a touchy-feely kind of person. I'm not comfortable working with people, period.
I'm an introvert who value privacy and me time. Asking me to delve deep into others' problems makes me uncomfortable and gives me creeps. I don't like people prying into my business and vice versa.
When a classmate cried for some reason in the past, while others would surge forward to comfort her, I would hang back, because I believe that the real comfort is to cry in peace and not have a group of people crowding into your space. It just makes you feel more rotten. That's my way of thinking anyway. There's no wrong or right, right?
A social worker encompasses everything I'm not. I don't know how to approach a problem and lend a comfort hand. I can 'hmmm' and 'ahhh' at the right time, that's all.
Anyway, I only choose this module because I need to fulfil the requirements and there aren't many choices left to choose from. It's a simple reason and it's not rocket science. I'm not "changing the world" or "making thr world a better place".
First of all, I'm not exactly a person who is able to relate to people's problems easily. Empathy and compassion are not my strong points. I'm not a touchy-feely kind of person. I'm not comfortable working with people, period.
I'm an introvert who value privacy and me time. Asking me to delve deep into others' problems makes me uncomfortable and gives me creeps. I don't like people prying into my business and vice versa.
When a classmate cried for some reason in the past, while others would surge forward to comfort her, I would hang back, because I believe that the real comfort is to cry in peace and not have a group of people crowding into your space. It just makes you feel more rotten. That's my way of thinking anyway. There's no wrong or right, right?
A social worker encompasses everything I'm not. I don't know how to approach a problem and lend a comfort hand. I can 'hmmm' and 'ahhh' at the right time, that's all.
Anyway, I only choose this module because I need to fulfil the requirements and there aren't many choices left to choose from. It's a simple reason and it's not rocket science. I'm not "changing the world" or "making thr world a better place".
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Anti-climatic
Yesterday was the second day back to school, or more appropriately, University. I would say it's quite anti-climatic. With all hype surrounding University, I had thought that things will be a little more "exciting" but no, it's just normal.
Perhaps, I will worry again when the tutorials start proper. Afterall, projects are a big deal and I am really scared that I will end up with less-than stellar group members.
A friend told me that University can be lonely and I can see why. There is no fixed class, therefore, a friend for this tutorial does not mean she will be there for the other tutorial. We are all drifting souls, going from one place to another.
I realise that since the end of Polytechnic, I have been worrying non-stop throughout the months of holidays.
First, I worried about not getting offers from Universities. Then, I worried about whether I made the right choice in not choosing SMU Business. After which, I worried about whether Arts and Social Sciences is a good choice and whether the major I intended to do would be a good track for me. Now, I have to worry about all sorts of miscellaneous stuff; group members, exams, projects, tutorials, locations for classes, printing services etc.
I admit I am a worrier and I will get wrinkles sooner or later. I've been wound too tightly for years.
Perhaps, I will worry again when the tutorials start proper. Afterall, projects are a big deal and I am really scared that I will end up with less-than stellar group members.
A friend told me that University can be lonely and I can see why. There is no fixed class, therefore, a friend for this tutorial does not mean she will be there for the other tutorial. We are all drifting souls, going from one place to another.
I realise that since the end of Polytechnic, I have been worrying non-stop throughout the months of holidays.
First, I worried about not getting offers from Universities. Then, I worried about whether I made the right choice in not choosing SMU Business. After which, I worried about whether Arts and Social Sciences is a good choice and whether the major I intended to do would be a good track for me. Now, I have to worry about all sorts of miscellaneous stuff; group members, exams, projects, tutorials, locations for classes, printing services etc.
I admit I am a worrier and I will get wrinkles sooner or later. I've been wound too tightly for years.
Friday, August 12, 2011
First Day Jitters
You would have thought that at 20 I would have gotten over the first-day jitters. After all, I've enough experience of being a new kid in school. But no, of course not, even adults will experience butterflies in their stomachs on the first day to work.
In a way, I am glad that school term is here, again. It brings closure and I've been waiting for the axe to drop anyway.
University is pretty intimidating, isn't it? When you have to take a bus to get to the library, you know you are in it bad.
I miss my Poly! I miss the library and the facilities. I had spend many happy hours sleeping on the study tables. I miss the Business School's computer labs and its printers where we can print whatever we want. On top of everything, I miss the close proximity the school provides.
Sighs, I never thought I will be saying this but circumstances change. I do miss the tough times which bring sweet returns. I have been really lucky in Poly and I hope to be in University too.
I cannot lose my touch.
In a way, I am glad that school term is here, again. It brings closure and I've been waiting for the axe to drop anyway.
University is pretty intimidating, isn't it? When you have to take a bus to get to the library, you know you are in it bad.
I miss my Poly! I miss the library and the facilities. I had spend many happy hours sleeping on the study tables. I miss the Business School's computer labs and its printers where we can print whatever we want. On top of everything, I miss the close proximity the school provides.
Sighs, I never thought I will be saying this but circumstances change. I do miss the tough times which bring sweet returns. I have been really lucky in Poly and I hope to be in University too.
I cannot lose my touch.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Green Fields
Yesterday was fun even though we didn't get to go out much.
First, we went to Eight Courtyards showflat.
The whole estate is really appealing to the senses and it's the epitome of the new concept of wellness living. There are more facilities than the usual gym and swimming pool. I assume there won't be a problem with parking lots as well because there will be a multi-storey carpark in addition to an underground carpark. How cool is there?
Of course, I am not delusional enough to think that we'll get to buy a condominium. Besides, I love where I'm staying now, with the extra big living room and bedrooms (as compared to mickey-mouse houses these days). It's all for good fun and I do enjoy the aesthetics and the deco of the showrooms.
After which, it's time to take photographs of the soon-to-be-gone fields and forested areas of Yishun. It hurts me to think that in a few years time, all these lovely greenery will be gone. Somethings need to be sacrifice for development. I just wish that they will slow in down.
First, we went to Eight Courtyards showflat.
The whole estate is really appealing to the senses and it's the epitome of the new concept of wellness living. There are more facilities than the usual gym and swimming pool. I assume there won't be a problem with parking lots as well because there will be a multi-storey carpark in addition to an underground carpark. How cool is there?
Of course, I am not delusional enough to think that we'll get to buy a condominium. Besides, I love where I'm staying now, with the extra big living room and bedrooms (as compared to mickey-mouse houses these days). It's all for good fun and I do enjoy the aesthetics and the deco of the showrooms.
After which, it's time to take photographs of the soon-to-be-gone fields and forested areas of Yishun. It hurts me to think that in a few years time, all these lovely greenery will be gone. Somethings need to be sacrifice for development. I just wish that they will slow in down.
Tuesday, August 09, 2011
NDP 2011
Another year, another National Day Parade gone by.
With the new Marina Bay Sands and the Art Science Museum fully constructed, the skyline of Singapore is finally completed and whole. This is the first year where spectators are treated with this beautiful view.
I spent this day watching the parade at home as usual. Next year, I plan to book a room at Marina Bay Sands to celebrate. Let's hope it will come true. I also plan to ballot for the much coveted tickets.
Watching the parade evoke a sense of pride in me and I can't help but get tear-eyed as I took in the sights that Singapore has to offer. Truly, we have come a long way and it is my wish that Singapore will be always on the rise for the better.
Monday, August 08, 2011
Passe
Seeing all those students in their red and white apparel today makes me feel nostalgic and a little bit old.
This is no longer my era. It's considered passe for me. I've grown up and on to better things. Perhaps, that's why I always feel like I'm missing out. I can't let go of the past. I look back and see the good old days.
This is no longer my era. It's considered passe for me. I've grown up and on to better things. Perhaps, that's why I always feel like I'm missing out. I can't let go of the past. I look back and see the good old days.
Saturday, August 06, 2011
Displeasure
Blah, it is no wonder that people find Singapore "stifling", because I find it drab too. I can hardly swallow my displeasure over that problem, you-know-what. That sore spot that got me everytime.
Seriously, there are times when I tried not to think about it, but still, sighs.
I suppose there will be enough chances in the future, but what if I don't want it to be in the future? What if I want it to be now, before that passion and spontaneity is gone?
Seriously, there are times when I tried not to think about it, but still, sighs.
I suppose there will be enough chances in the future, but what if I don't want it to be in the future? What if I want it to be now, before that passion and spontaneity is gone?
Monday, August 01, 2011
Uncertainty
University seriously stresses me out.
I'm worried that I don't have the confidence and skills to conquer University. I'm just a very ordinary, average kind of person. Reading all those reviews about the modules and having to have strong writing skills make me did a double-take. Do I have what it takes to ride through this storm?
There are times when I like to think that my English is not that bad, I did editing for projects during the Polytechnic years and hey, they were pretty good.
Perhaps all these uncertainty and anxiety will pass once I start classes proper and know what to expect.
It's just like Polytechnic all over again, I freaked out pre-poly too. Looking at all those modules and credits, I didn't know how in the world I will do it right. But, I did well and that's all that matters.
University is a big deal, isn' it? It either make or break you, in certain circumstances. Afterall, what are the odds that you will make it big without a proper education? I know the chance is out there, but I am practical and this is a practical country.
I'm worried that I don't have the confidence and skills to conquer University. I'm just a very ordinary, average kind of person. Reading all those reviews about the modules and having to have strong writing skills make me did a double-take. Do I have what it takes to ride through this storm?
There are times when I like to think that my English is not that bad, I did editing for projects during the Polytechnic years and hey, they were pretty good.
Perhaps all these uncertainty and anxiety will pass once I start classes proper and know what to expect.
It's just like Polytechnic all over again, I freaked out pre-poly too. Looking at all those modules and credits, I didn't know how in the world I will do it right. But, I did well and that's all that matters.
University is a big deal, isn' it? It either make or break you, in certain circumstances. Afterall, what are the odds that you will make it big without a proper education? I know the chance is out there, but I am practical and this is a practical country.
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