Rejected by ST Forum
Government needs to do more to reassure Singaporeans that there is free speech
There has been a lot of talk about free speech here in Singapore. Mr Lee Hsein Loong for one, as reiterated more then once that we do have free speech here in Singapore. The interesting thing is that many Singaporeans still do not seem to believe him. The idea that the government rules Singapore with an iron fist still seems well stuck in the minds of its people. While indeed the S21 plan reminds us and perhaps reassures us that every Singaporean counts. As well that every Singaporean's view counts. It seems insufficient.
In view of this, I believe that it be necessary for the government to reassure Singaporeans that there is indeed free speech here. The government might feel that they have done so already, but it does not seem to be enough. Furthermore, lively debate in the Forum page does not signify that most Singaporeans do not fear speaking out openly. This is so because Forum page writers form a minority in Singapore. In order to drive away this fear, I find it necessary for the government to make an official statement on this. It is undeniable that after political dissidents like Chia Thye Poh and Tang Fong Har were sent to detention, there has been prevading fear in most Singaporeans against speaking out against the government and their policies. Only with an official statement on the genuine plans of the government to allow free speech, then will this fear be removed. As well as to reassure us that the consequences previously suffered by dissidents would not occur again.
In addition to that, it is also essential that the government take kindly to the alternative ideas introduced by opposition members in parliament. If the government does not even bother to listen to politicians that represent Singaporeans, then it seems virtually impossible that the government actually bothers to listen to ordinary citizens. Indeed, if the government truly believes in free speech that it has to do so unconditionally. It is necessary that they officially declare that there is free speech here. In order for Singapore to ride safely and smoothly into the new millennium, Singaporeans cannot live in fear any more. I would like to believe that there is free speech here in Singapore. But like any other Singaporean, I do need a confirmation on it and its consequences. Right now, the OB markers are rather vague. I would like to suggest that the government properly define these OB markers.
Tan Weiming