| Looking at the fundamentals, perhaps it is a mistake altogether to allow governmental bodies/corporations so much autonomy especially with issues that concern public interest. If stringent laws can be passed to make it a safer and better place for us all to stay in, shouldn't we have a bigger say in things that concern out daily lives? I am not even asking for political freedom. Just for a platform, or somewhere for us to give our two cents worth and not be looked down upon by our global neighbours as apathetic or submissive. Don't even suggest Speakers' Corner again- it's been unofficially termed a decoy by most of us out there. A little public opinion can go a long way. Bringing in world renowned architects or encouraging inventors to invent systems like these which easily cost a couple of millions of dollars are easy decisions to make when you are all the way up the corporate ladder, but it wont go down easily with the public. Announcing the decision to implement a system and then asking for feedback is so not asking for public opinion. Ideas from men who are chauffeured to work in their large luxury cars almost spell certain death for projects that are meant for people of the lower rims of society- those up there have no idea how those below live and breathe. Significantly vox pox (voices of the majority) means nothing in the local context because more voices, more signatures won't guarantee you get what you want. You get what the government think is good for you. 'Tis saddening- doubt this was what our forefathers envisioned when they came to Nanyang and started building this place up with their bare hands. Kai 2002 |
| Part II |