It's a Pixelated World

Morally righteous = Politically capable ??

2012-02-15T18:32:00.001-08:00

RE: SCDF commissioner suspended, CNB chief under investigation

RE: Public servants have moral authority to uphold: MPs & public

RE: MP Yaw Shin Leong expelled from WP, Hougang by-election

Bad news always come in a bundle.. Or at least ever since the election last May. Being a politician comes at a price; loss of privacy. Let us not even start the debate on whether the “extraordinary” salary that can help soften the fact on lost privacy; personal space. The recent arrest of the 2 top civil servants for corruption, not in monetary terms but maybe for kind return sparks a furore of debates and discussion online on moral capacity.

Can a person who is morally flawed capable to deliver high quality performance in his work? No. A couple of you would debate this point. Question is, can a person make sound judgment? If a person who is morally weak and is susceptible to external influences will continue make skewed or biased decision. Like it or not, once we human allow ourselves to be easily influenced emotionally, we make wrong choices. It is akin to buying things out of compulsiveness instead of doing one’s homework and has consideration before making the purchase is likely for one to end up buying things that is not required. For politicians that have greater cascading effect by his daily decision, it makes it more important for him to be morally upright than anyone down the streets. I applaud WP’s brave decision to take the brunt and face to public to remain accountable and transparent.

US chapter drawing to a close soon…

2012-02-15T18:03:00.001-08:00

Counting down to 17 Mar; the day I am back in sunny Singapore. The first half of my experience was filled much with a variety of experiential sharing, real-life examples, reality on retention, ever evolving doctrines of useful applications and most importantly professionalism. I had a pretty interesting start to the year with my family, sharing most joy, company, learning and experiencing living in a very different culture. And just about everything starts to fall into a routine of early PT days during weekdays and road trips out during the weekend, I am going home. I had enjoyed my time here and had learnt much from an experienced organisation that relied on orderly pragmatism to live another day.

Happy Valentine’s Day

2012-02-13T22:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines’ Day to all.. May all married couples enjoy more blissful years and single will find their true love…

Quality Family time…

2012-02-10T19:06:00.001-08:00

I had just realised I have spend more quality time with my family more than what I had since the birth of my elder daughter. What is this quality time that everyone have been talking about? Before my trip here, I had always thought that I have given sufficient attention to my family; I had cared enough; I had spent enough time teaching my daughter the basics of language. I am wrong. I had spend more time at work than committing more effort to see my children grow. Never had I spend enough effort to know my wife better, in fact I thought I had until now. Never before I knew so much about my daughter, her ranting and her romantic side when she whisper lovely sweet nothings before I turn in for the night. And now, I miss my Elissa, my youngest of the two daughters. Probably not the wisest choice to not bring her to US although I had spend hours discussing with my wife on how tough to bring her along as she just turn one; she would probably not remember anything anyway. How I wish I could turn the clock. Experience is something that cannot be replaced by any educational tools, just like how I knew Estella more.

Tan Chuan-Jin

2012-01-18T17:40:00.001-08:00

It is interesting to read BG(NS) Tan Chuan Jin’s parliamentary speech on the Ministerial Salary; it is the best I had heard so far. In 3 simple points, he objectively point out the idealistic in the realistic world without being partisan about the issue. Why serve? Pricing service and rhetoric and reality of service.

“Who do we serve? We serve our people, our country, for today and for tomorrow. As the honourable Mr. Yee Jenn Jong states, Singapore is not a company nor a business. It cannot be run as such. All of us agree. It is far more than that. But should we not be prudent? Should we not put in place systems and processes to keep things going well? Should we look at numbers? Should we look at details? Should we make those difficult decisions that are sometimes necessary but painful for some?”

“Mr. Chen states that political service is not a discount factor. I agree. It is not. I have talked about why we serve….So in the same spirit, would it be correct to say that in WP’s reckoning, that Political Service is a “mark-up factor?”…I don’t think so. That would be a cheap political shot. Because that is not what you mean.”

“I admire those who proudly proclaim that there is no sacrifice in stepping forward to political service. It took me a long time to decide even though I had been serving in our Army. Political service is public service but somewhat different. Does this make me a less committed Singaporean?..I am pained by the knowledge that I will miss the many moments when my children are growing up and time with family. My parents are not getting any younger. Those moments missed do not return. Ever. In time, I will look back, and there will be gaps. But that’s life….I’m not sure how one considers it a privilege to miss these precious moments. It trivializes all of us who do cherish these….Does that make all of us lesser beings?”

Oppositions really literally means their existence is to oppose?

2012-01-17T06:54:00.000-08:00

RE: WP plans differ little from recommendations: PAP MPs

Hmm.. What stays in the past stays in the past; seems like gone were the days when we have quality debate and logical rebuts in Parliament even though we had overwhelming majority of a single ruling party. Maybe, it was made easier with lesser quality of opposition voices then. I could not sit easy with the debate going on in Parliament. After WP MP, Mr Chen Sao Mao, made his party’s first views on the recommended political salary package, several PAP MPs rebutted the WP’s proposal.

Extracts from Straits Times Online, “Mr Zaqy was among at least five PAP MPs
who critiqued the WP's proposals in on Monday's parliamentary debate on the
recommendations of the Committee to Review Ministerial Salaries….He noted that
as civil servants are executives, their pay must be competitive….This means the
WP has not managed to escape a market-based pay system.”

What is he trying to suggest? Opposition means they must oppose to whatever policy that the ruling party makes or agrees on? With social media reaching out to the younger electorate much more and easier than reaching out to the elderly population, the party really needs to review the way their colleagues make their point. While I have utmost respect for our Ministers, especially Prime Minister, the way the rest of the MPs make their points are careless and will, in my view, weaken the party’s political support in the long run.

Being an opposition in the Parliament does not mean that they must oppose to any recommended public policy, but a presence to strengthen policy/ies whenever required. So, their point is market-based pay structure is still relevant.

Are our politicians really earning the most in the World?

2012-01-06T19:29:00.001-08:00

Here we go again; after reading the blasting on Grace Fu’s FB posting on the revised salary framework and find total sense in her post.

“When I made the decision to join politics in 2006, pay was not a key factor. Loss of privacy, public scrutiny on myself and my family and loss of personal time were. The disruption to my career was also an important consideration. I had some ground to believe that my family would not suffer a drastic change in the standard of living even though I experienced a drop in my income. So it is with this recent pay cut. If the balance is tilted further in the future, it will make it harder for anyone considering political office.”

I could not agree more that being a politician means loss of privacy, personal time, and most challenging of all, under public scrutiny. Mind you, she was the CEO of PSA before deciding to join politics and serve Singapore. Hey!! Hey!! If you think that money is the thing that is attracting her, I choose to think otherwise. If you think that a CEO is earning much less than what she could earn as a Minister. Think again. CEO of Singtel, Ms Chua Sock Koong, brought home $4.15 MILLION SINGAPORE DOLLARS last year; MUCH more than what our Prime Minister earns, and of course with much lesser public scrutiny and more privacy when she strolls down Orchard Road. And oh yes.. Directorships right? Another key moan is on the numerous additional incomes they earn from directorships. For your information, almost all CEOs have other directorships. Since I had compared CEO of Singtel, allow me to share that she in fact sits on 38 other boards. Are our politicians really overpaid?

Oh yes, many would say. Many people out there still moan about the “HUGE” pay packets that our Ministers can still bring home even after the revised salary framework. It is not helped that news articles continue fuel discontentment further by comparing the salary with other politicians across the world. Did anyone ask if there is something missing in the reports? Let us get real; if we really want to compare, then the comparison must be holistic. This is what HR practioners call remuneration package or total compensation pay. Pay packets MUST be drawn in comparison with the country’s GDP, cost of living, or most important of all, the nation’s growth; and it must include all the other perks that comes along with the appointment. Kenya President earns US$312,000 a year, and this definitely pales when you put him beside what our Prime Minister earns. But guess what, he is paid higher when you compare his earning against the nation’s GDP. Also, check out what else President Obama is getting on top of his US$400,000 salary. Is our Prime Minister the highest paid politician in the world?

2012.. A new beginning.. Goodbye 2011.

2012-01-01T08:12:00.001-08:00

I look back at my 2011 Resolution and trying to recall the gracious turn point in my career in 2010; 2011 was good for me too. 2011 offers me to attend one of the most prestigious military institutes; US Army; and of course, it is an affirmation of my potential in my career. Ironically, I was contemplating of a job switch in May, just before I accepted the promotion; seriously think about my future in the Armed Forces. Not that I am no longer patriotic, I can continue to serve in the NS side of the house anyway; it is about the job security after an extended career in the military and be out of touch when the retirement time comes. Nonetheless, the choice was made back in Jun and I am here in United States.

Revisiting 2011 resolution; I think I can safely say that I have passed the most important resolution for 2011; that is to spend more time to mend the relationship bridge. Relationship has definitely improved but there is still room to be better. I guess it can never be the same as before; like the saying goes, the crack in the mirror will forever be there. I hope that this can at least maintain for a while. Let me revisit this come 2013.

On personal development, I guess I am more competent in dealing with people; judging from the reactions and feedback that my superior, peers and subordinates had given me. I guess people are more willing to open their hearts to me that keeps me occupied for good reasons. With new faces coming up under my HR arms, I strive to maintain this impression for 2012.

Experience and travel. Interestingly in the last month of 2011, Dec, there is this massive posting of One Hundred-travel list challenge on Facebook; I have made 12 so far, of which 10 is a result of my stay in US. This is one unique experience that probably money cannot buy; and time too, who on earth will have so much time and money to visit so many places in 6 months unless you stay in this country.

Resolution. 2012 Chinese Zodiac Forecast for Horse by Grand Master Tan Khoon Yong indicates a mediocre year for me; and also this is one Master that I follow his guidance as he is quite accurate. I guess my resolution should be health since it has only 1 star rating, but no, it is not my priority. After coming off 2011 stronger on relationship, this year will be the focus on my financial well-being. After balancing the check-book in 2010, doing well in 2011, I strive to fatten the bank a little more than I had usually done. “Value for money” does not necessarily mean cheap.

This year, I will break my norms of having only 1 key resolution; I will have 2. The other focus is to love my family and wife especially more and support her than I had usually done in past years; I had spent too much time on work and neglected family. It is this US trip that made me realised how much I had missed.

Looking back at 2011…

2011-12-31T08:15:00.000-08:00

RE: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's New Year's message

An eventful year 2011 for Singapore and the world. The headliners, Tsunami hit Japan, financial crisis in Europe, death of Terror leader, General Elections, Presidential Elections and more.

Tsunami had hit Japan hard. With nuclear spill threatening every other neighbouring country, there was fear that it may slowly spread to massive part of planet earth. There is no doubt that the world had came together to help Japan tide over this tremendous crisis; what is more heartening is to see a nation from all walks of life come together to volunteer their hands to work on the ravage rubbles. A Japanese united front is probably a distant hope that we could possibly come together when crisis hit. A changed demographic with huge influx of immigrants (or we call them new citizens) need time to work on their loyalty and patriotism. Hitting the headlines every other period, the discontentment about the spices “fragrant” from their Indian neighbour, the urge to evade NS on FB, parents posting on Asiaone forums asking how to get their son from NS, scolding of an old lady caught on video and perhaps more. These news, if they are not aware, continue to thwart efforts by the government and social agencies to integrate new citizens into our way of life. People do not see that they are actually descendants of early immigrants and we are what we are today of yesteryears. Unless we are willing to bear more kids, the population is going to size down dramatically without proper immigration policy. I remember when I was a little kid, “Courtesy, it beings with me”.

Financial crisis in Europe. Overspending, poor public policy, bind currency means bind economy and public outcry on harsh policy on citizens to correct the financial challenges. Have we realised that we are affected? Without natural resources, we are left to fend for ourselves by depending much on how others survive. Australia is perhaps the only first world country not hit by any recession in history. They are so much self sufficient, internal spending economy, exports industries and more. There are obvious signs that the government is working on “Singaporeans First” after the General Elections outcry that see unprecedented loss of a GRC; and in the process losing one of our best Minister and a veteran opposition. We will continue to face the dilemma to balance the tension to lend focus on our people and support international investments in years to come; with the internet age, 5 years is a short time for people to forget the “pain.” Pragmatic public policy is the reason why we have prosper over the last few decades but it will be difficult for us to follow this rein to gain further prosperity with public acceptance.

Death of Terror Leader, Osama Bin Laden. The instrumental leader that brought twin towers down, leaving thousands dead and millions stunned. The decade long hunt for this leader finally came to an end in May 2011. His death is not end the threat of terror for it may spur his followers to avenge his death. Self-radicalised and the haunting Yishun MRT plot remind us that the threat is just at our doorstep and we should not and must not be complacent. It will be too late when it happens.

The two Elections, both General and Presidential Elections, have seen a great change in the way politics are conducted as compared to previous. The introduction of social tools like twitter, Facebook and Blogs has transformed the way on how election candidates reach out to the voters. The usual coffee shops grumble is now widely communicated, thanks to these new portals. Younger generations who may not be tuned to the political development can rely on social tools to get their information, avoiding the traditional news portal like TV and radio; which is widely said to disadvantage the opposition. However, the danger is, as Megan McArdle said in Anatomy of a Fake Quotation, information over these portals may not necessarily be accurate, as they may seem to be. Readers may be misled or even misinterpret information that leads to perceptions; be it good or bad, these portals can only be further exploited.

Fireworks Photography

2011-12-13T17:43:00.001-08:00

How do we get clear and sharp fireworks? Wonder how those photographers get these wonderfully taken photos? In this blog, I will introduce the basics to get a decent fireworks photo.

Here is the checklist you need before basic firework photography.

1) Camera: you need to have a camera that can control the shutter speed so that you can capture the "lines" of the fireworks bursting in the sky; I would strongly recommend a DSLR than prosumer camera for it is more versatile with lenses, better image sensor, ISO control and shutter speed control. I use Nikon D-90.

2) Tripod: You need a tripod that can take the weight of your camera and strong enough to withstand the external influences like wind.

3) Lens: You need a wide lens. Depending on how close you are to the fireworks, it is highly recommended that you have a wide lens to catch the burst of the fireworks. You would not want to have the fireworks sliced off the top of your photograph. A typical kit lens of 18mm at widest should be enough for you to take fireworks with a standoff of approximate 500 metres. The closer you are, the wider lens you would need. I personally use 10mm at widest.

4) Remote Shutter Release: Do you know how long the burst of each firework will last? No, I would not know. A remote for DSLR will come in handy to control how long you want to keep the shutter open when the DSLR camera is in "bulb" mode. This will avoid unwanted camera shake when you press the shutter on the camera.

Camera Settings: Different settings produce varying effects of the fireworks and it is up to you to start experimenting. Before you start experimenting, here are the basics settings for a decent photo;

1) Put your camera to manual mode: This will give you control over the camera's aperture and shutter settings, thus disallowing the camera to "work out" the preferred settings for your photo.

2) Set your focus to manual and infinity: Manual mode - you just do not want the camera to waste time doing auto-focusing; and by the time it gets done, the fireworks is over. Putting it to infinity will give focus to all object in the photo for you would not be able to tell the exact distance of the fireworks, the radius of burst and it will affect the overall composition of your photo.

3) Aperture: F9 - F11. Basically, the aperture controls on the "thickness" of the fireworks or some would argue the "sharpness" of the fireworks.

4) ISO: ISO 50 - ISO 200. The ISO is about how sensitivity your sensor is to the light. It generally control the overall brightness of your photos, which will be important if you are trying to compose your fireworks with landscape.

5) Shutter: Set it to "Bulb" mode. This would allow you to control the total time you want the shutter to be opened. How to choose it? scroll your shutter time towards longer exposure time until the camera indicate "bulb". The longer the exposure, the brighter your photo will be as well.

Photo taking time. Now with the gears and basic settings, you are now ready to go and start your very first fireworks photo. Before you get excited over your very first fireworks photo, you might want to take note a few little things before you start.

1) Get tripod positioned with little chance of "disturbance". I tend to place 2 legs to the front and stabilise it with the railings, walls or, whatever object available. Then, I will place the third pod between my legs to prevent accidental "kicks" by neighbours. You know, when it comes to fireworks, everyone is excited about it.

2) Weigh your Tripod down with a weight. It is simple science of gravity and CG. The lower the CG is, the lower the chances of tripod shakes during photo taking.

3) Composition and Pre-shots. Imagine the position of the fireworks based on the firing point and start composing your photo. The 1/3 rule is a pretty good gauge to start with. Play with the settings as I had explained earlier to make sure that you do not dim out the surroundings, if you are composing with landscape. Remember, use your remote to take the pre-shots with approximate 3 -5 secs exposure. This is approximate the length of time the fireworks burst before it dim out.

4) Wait for the moment. Every single fireworks display is anticipated by all spectators. If you can, get the time schedule of the fireworks or get your sensing from the crowd. Keep your fingers on the remote all the time so that you will not miss any unexpected burst. Open your shutter just before the burst and close it just as it starting to dim out.

5) Keep taking, keep taking. Follow the basic rules and keep taking. Your photo will grow with every experience you gain.

Experiment Time. Once you think you are taking decent photos, you may even want to try some experiments. Blur your focus, multiple exposures, white balance, black card and more.

Transportation blues...

2011-12-05T10:36:00.000-08:00

RE: ComfortDelGro revises taxi fares
RE: Singapore to become a premium car market? In a span of 3 days, we have been hit by probably two of the most unwelcomed news of the year; the reduced COE quota for small cars next year and an increased taxi fare starting next Monday. It is easy to say that "hey, we have one of the best public transportation in the world", so the lowering of COE quota is not going to hit many, much. BUT the growing population is crowding them out in public transportation too.

The big question is, how did the Ministry work this magical figure since there isn't seem to be a balance? Not only the price of vehicle is going to break records after records, the price of public transport is increasing as well; the ever increasing buses and MRT prices and the latest announcement on the hike of Taxi fares. Everything seems to be hiking BECAUSE they say that there is an increased demand. Who doesn’t know it, increased population is going to increase the population density; since the LAND SIZE is not going to increase.

For commoners like us, surely, if we cannot afford to buy a car, we would most definitely have to turn to public transport, isn’t it? With them increasing the public transport fees as well, how would they expect us to move from one place to another? Next suggestion in line.. go healthy, you either cycle or walk. It is simply nonsensical to increase the load on Singaporeans without first solving the over-over-overcrowding public transportation. I also do not think that there is much significant increase in the pay packet for the lower income, the increased fees is not doing to do any good as a whole.

Next, there should be more conversations between Ministries to keep the growth in line to lessen the load on Singaporeans as a whole; the immigration policies (number of PRship and foreigner permits given annually), the settlement of population (where they stay) and diversion of commercial (instead of having high business density at Raffles Place) to spread the population density across the city-island. The rate of transportation policy is then introduced in tandem with the rate of how the “people” move around as stated above. This would reduce the “pain” that we as citizens feel than the current plight of having to experience everything when population is still crowding the key places out, the housing and relocation of businesses, like Paya Lebar commercial hub, have yet to take place.

UPDATE: Taxi fare revisions to hit the disabled, elderly poor

Echoing the letter from the author, the group that is going to be hit hard are the disabled, elderly and poor.

Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina

2011-12-03T20:28:00.000-08:00

A medium sized museum containing precious historical oil paintings dating back to the 1800s; and both historical and contemporary art.

Photography settings:

35mm; f1.8;ISO 50 (To isolate subject and darken the background)

35mm; f1.8;ISO 200 (General Setting)

35mm; f1.8;ISO 400 (Darker or dimmer lightings)

Museum of Art

VIEW SLIDE SHOW

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Public support for the military

2011-11-30T11:21:00.000-08:00

RE: Earrings not allowed for soldiers in uniform

I am enjoying every bit of my United States experience and I bet that I will continue to learn and enjoy. Just like being a Soldier in Singapore, there is a continual need to manage the public impression of Army and taking good care of the soldiers. After all, they are main the structure that supports the military mission; the need for defence and deterrence.

I was having my daily news diet and find that SAF is in the news again. This time, a STOMPER, caught a soldier traveling in public transportation wearing earrings that makes him looks “girly” in uniform. The important impression is that a Soldier must look “gungho” and there must not be any suggestion of “weaklings” in our Army, as suggest by the news clipping. I feel that the more important aspect of this is much more than the impression that we portray as Soldiers; discipline. It has been mandated since the formation of SAF that earrings, bearing long beards (unless for religious reasons), smartness of uniform in public, or for so long it does portray an unprofessional Army, it will not be tolerated. So the rationale of this image upkeep is explained.

My experience in US has brought a new lesson and an important one; public support. It is just simply amazing on how much the public appreciate the military. To them, military is the reason for the freedom they enjoy. There is once an elderly man I took the lift with, turned around and asked me, “Are you from the military?” I replied, “Yes, I am”. The next response then brightened my day, “Thank you for protecting the country”. Wow, I felt great purpose and pride in me for that split moment. Every other big store I visit, including key tourist spots like winter sports area, Vail, Colorado, there are military discounts to appreciate the presence of military that protect their freedom. How amazing is that? This naturally gives the Soldiers the pride and morale push to continue to do well in the military.

In contrast, Singapore has not reached a stage that public recognise military is playing a huge part in freedom that the country enjoys; Who can blame them anyway for we have not come in serious military conflicts nor military threats from others. There might be something that maybe related to; upbringing. Structure drives behaviours, the public education system has also perhaps played a big role in our society expectations. Parents are protective over their child in school; scrutinising the teachers’ behaviour, teaching methods and treatment, just to list a few. Our younger generation thus grew up a more self-centered environment; and these male citizens will serve the nation and the military eventually. This leads to this complicated matrix of public expectations with the same upbringing surroundings that our soldiers grew up in; expectations of their own. I personally do not see that the public will change their expectations toward the military in the near future but one thing I am sure; while there is a change in demographics in the Soldiers we enlist, there is no change in the purpose of our existence, the quality of training that we put in and the readiness for armed conflicts.

Stop the whining about MND

2011-11-29T18:50:00.001-08:00

RE: Blinkymummy – The Problem with Urban Redevelopment & Consultation

Graphic courtesy of URA Singapore

I was reading the news and blinkymummy’s blog on the ever noisy property related news. It was the expectations of property prices and so on, now it is the complain about the need for consultation for any shift in URA’s plan. I share the Blinkymmumy’s beliefs that "high handed" approach has brought us to where we are today. Politics elsewhere has evidently shows that being too populist to gain votes will slow the nation's progression. There will be too many opinions to consider; afterall how many out there is seriously interested to say "yes, this policy is good for the nation though it will hurt me very much". There might be a handful, I hope. I have grew up in the south-eastern district but was relocated to north-eastern district in the late 1990s when the government chose to redevelop the land that I grew up on; I have live happily since. There are always pros and cons to every single policy out there, more importantly, pros must outweigh the cons.. It is the same for simple decisions made everyday.

Since the internet fever from the General Elections in May, people jump at the slightest voice that the ruling party makes. Not that I am pro-government in every aspect, there is a need to rationalise. The expressway is not something new, but of course, it will be painful to those who had spent half of their life there. Since every other motorists who stay in the north are complaining about the heavy traffic during peak hours along CTE. Something and someone has to give way, right? So if the complain does not from the residents in the south, it will be the residents from the north.

I stress again that I am not pro-government is every aspect but there are situations that we need to take a step back to consider the next step ourselves and not rely on the "parents" to think for us, and when is not what we feel like, we shout. It’s high time that we stop whining and make plans to move forward.

Property Expectations

2011-11-20T08:45:00.001-08:00

RE: No good reason to shrink new HDB flats

RE: Making Good Progress with First-timers

RE: Rochor residents unhappy at lack of dialogue over move

RE: Government Gives Go-Ahead for Alignment of Northern Segment of North-South Expressway (NSE)

Image from propertyguru.com.sg

Property, property and more property news. The sudden steep appreciation of public housing prices in recent years and private housing seeing an average 2 bedrooms shooting through the 1 mil mark, has taken a toil on Singaporeans. Not only has it hogged the headlines for months, it has also took center stage in the recent May general elections.

With the change in leadership in Ministry of National Development (MND) after the elections, numerous measures ranging from increased public housing (HDB flats) released in a single tranche to measured pricing of new flats have been implemented. All these measures are aimed to cool the property market and provide affordable housing for our people, especially young couples. Patience is perhaps, a distant language for most of our people. While the ministry with new leadership is trying their best, people do not understand that these measures will take a while before we can see the impact on the property market. Afterall, we do not build new flats overnight.

Expectations of our people and expectations is a function of measurable reality. Our government has done a tremendous job trying to keep the nation strong despite its size and almost absolute zero natural resources to depend on. But did the government try her best to make housing affordable for all? I did some research to give myself some reality checks.

1. Home Ownership rate. Singapore has come a long way to ensure that most of our people own a property, an asset. We have been achieving high home ownership rate with a steady increase from 58.8% in the 1980s to 87.2% in 2010 (extracted from Singstats). Let us compare a city on our side of the globe. Hong Kong, with current population of about 7.1 mil, has raised the home ownership rate from 35% in the 1980s to 69.5% in middle of 2011(public and private). These statistics can easily mean that we have more people in our country owning an asset compared to our comparable neighbour. Take it to the economic powerhouse, US has about 66.3% (3rd quarter, 2011) of its people owning a home. This is some statistics to show where we are.

2. Shrinking size of HDB flats. I do not think anyone can contest the fact that big countries has bigger apartment on average. Though it has been repeated on numerous occasion, let me say again, Singapore is a small island and land is scare. Having smaller flat would also means more affordable housing for our people, but will it sacrifice the quality of life as mentioned by Paul Chan (RE: No good reason to shrink new HDB flats)? My opinion is, quality of life is a function of how people make it out to be. Allow me to draw comparison Hong Kong, though it is larger, their populous area are comparable to us. Even so, Hong Kong has only 8.9% of its public housing with floor area of 60 sqm or more (Hong Kong Housing Authorities) and we have 56.6% of 4 rooms or bigger HDB flats (HDB). Even some of our 3 rooms flats are bigger than 60 sqm. Have they lost the quality of life?

3. Prices index. Are we a victim of our own success? The natural result of strong economic growth is increased population for commercial interactions. The increased population increases the demand for housing has inevitably shot the prices up. In a similar economic standing and geography, Hong Kong domestic index has grew about 100% since 2005 (Private Domestic - Price Indices by Class (Territory-wide) (from 1979)) while HDB has gains about 80% in the same period (HDB Resale Prices). It is a global challenge and China may be next to see the bubble bursting.

These are reality checks for property and I appreciate that MND is working something for everyone, notably for the young families. While we are going through a period a tension over the accelerated property price increment, we must remember that Singapore does not live off property industry alone but a complicated combination of various factors in global economy.

Leadership Philosophy

2011-10-18T17:07:00.001-07:00

“Good leaders lead by example, personal presence, and involvement. Only commanders who are competent to lead can assure the defence of the nation. The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) therefore demands the highest standards of leadership at all levels of command and expects them to lead, excel, and inspire others to give their best to the nation.” (The SAF Core Values, 1997, p. 7).

Leadership is a privilege and an honour that also comes with tremendous responsibility. The Army defines leadership as a process of influencing others to accomplish the mission, inspiring their commitment, and improving the organization.

Singapore maintains a conscript-based military. Every able-bodied male citizen and permanent resident, 18 years old of age and above, must serve 2 years of full time military training. As such, we as leaders are accountable to the parents who entrust their sons to us; to train as effective and operationally ready combat soldiers. Hence, it is of utmost importance that we give their sons tough and safe training.

Mohandas Gandhi once said, “I suppose leadership at one time meant muscles; but today it means getting along with people.” This applies very much in today’s leadership management. Citizens turned soldiers serve with varying motivations; some with pride and some wished they would not need to serve. Furthermore, the current generation of soldiers are more inquisitive and technologically savvy than soldiers of yesteryears. Hence, draconian style is no longer relevant in today’s context and it is important for all leaders to recognize this change in our Army.

I. A.M. S. O.N.E. frames my leadership philosophy and guides me in my everyday work, and I seek every subordinate leader to use this as guiding pillars in your respective command.

Integrity: Will you follow a leader who you do not trust? Sun Tze said, “The masterful leader cultivates the moral law, and strictly adheres to proper methods and discipline; thus it is in his power to control success.” Integrity sets the framework of which the leader will make decision. Moreover, people will only feel safe to share ideas and problems with a leader of integrity. Once a leader ever compromises his or her integrity, even at the slightest, it is lost; and it will take a great deal for him or her to reinstate the lost trust.

Adept in your functional area: It is important that leaders continue to lead by example and be proficient in their area of specialization. Therefore, leaders must be committed to life-long learning to stay relevant in the ever-changing environment. This will not only equip the leader to perform his duties well but also give him the moral high ground to demand standards, respect, and commitment from the soldiers.

Modesty: Learn to be humble. There is no perfect man in this world and it is a big mistake to think you are one. Citizen soldiers grew up in a different era from you and their upbringing will at times bring good alternative ideas that may turn out to be the better solution or even strengthen your decision. Accepting them will not compromise your position as a leader but conversely strengthen their trust in you. A leader who listens well and gets along well with his soldiers will bond the team stronger.

Spirited: When the going gets tough, the tough gets going. Fighting spirit is a force multiplier in war. The best form of welfare a leader can give to his soldiers during peacetime is tough training. Whether it is peacetime training or operational duties, we must continue to persevere to overcome adversity.

Operational readiness: Are you ready when called upon? The fundamental purpose of our existence is to deter, and to defend effectively when called upon. Leaders are responsible to train the soldiers to be operationally ready during peacetime so they can be effective warriors in war.

Nurturing the young: As leaders, we must continue to develop his soldiers; identifying their strength and work on their weaknesses. As citizen soldiers, serving in the military is not their only responsibility but also the influence he has on the society after his military service. This includes but not only to inculcating SAF seven core values; Loyalty to Country, Leadership, Professionalism, Fighting Spirit, Ethics, Care for Soldiers.

Experience: Positive experience generates positive aura. Conscription is not only about the 2 years of military service the soldier serves, but also the positive and meaningful Army experience he brings to the society. Positive experiences will in turn strengthen the relationship between the society and the Army.

What is wrong with 四个门牌一个梦?

2011-10-17T16:59:00.000-07:00

For various reasons, Xinmsn, that provides catchup TV for locals to catch up on shows that they missed for whatever reason, is not providing access for overseas viewers; for apparent commercial gains over connecting Singaporeans living overseas. Instead I got to watch over a China website 七七电视剧.

Anyway, this serial show has kicked up various commotion on the internet, including Blinkymummy. For a person who is living on the other side of the world and following developments in Singapore, the commotions caught my attention.

The first 10 episodes is a pain to watch.. Firstly, there is this China lady who is extremely rude and “countryside”, constantly stepping on the toes of her neighbour, worst, a neighbour (Huang Wen Yong) who is extremely critical of government policy of foreign talent. Secondly, there is this daughter-in-law who is so materialistic and an extreme lady (maybe I should call her a shrew) who demands everything from her husband. Thirdly, a extremely unreasonable landlord who lease his rooms to foreign workers, a caucasian who works in the Singapore Police Force (hmm.. is there one in the real world?) and a camera man from China, Guangzhou. Lastly, a pair of father and daughter cheaters, and I suppose they are Singaporeans.

Has our local producers ran out of ideas to write a serial shows to promote social integration in a better manner? These extreme personalities have given a bad taste to this show, unfortunately. I wonder if Singaporeans are accepting the fact that foreign immigrations are here to stay and we have to find someway to get them integrated. If we continue to have shows like these portraying large immigrant community like China and India, how do we expect our locals and young to accept them?

Already we need to content the negative publicity in the social network realm, now we do not even have the support of the local media to educate our young. I seriously hope that the rest of the episodes have better portrayal of foreigners. I bet that Huang Wenyong’s daughter will fall in love with Micheal (the caucasian policeman).. Ha, to show inter-racial or inter-nationality marriage to promote integration with our locals? (not forgetting she spend sometime in England working before coming back to witness the sour relationship in her family)

My American Dream

2011-09-25T20:01:00.001-07:00

This is probably the first post that I am going to be open about my work.. Other than being a combatant that I had signed for years ago, I have chosen Human Resources as my specialization as a dual tracked Officer in 2005. Since then, honestly and effective have been the guiding pole for my as I navigate in HR line.

In HR, overseas HR courses is far and few. The highlight and prestige is US Adjutant Captains Career Course. Not only because the course is conducted by one of the best Armies in the world but also our Army only send 1 Officer to attend this course in a year. It is a dream for me to attend this course. Given that only 1 can make it, this would mean that I have to be the best if not one of the best in my cohort to be even shortlist for this course. This also meant that the chances of me attending is tough and uphill to stand out of tons of outstanding Officers in the Army.

Opportunity came.. My hardwork pays off.. I was shortlisted.. In my previous blogs, I had mentioned that I was shortlisted but was also almost halted by superiors who deemed other primary tasks are more important than me attending this. It is of fortune that the ultimate decision maker chose to bear the vacancy for my development. It is a chance.

Here I am at Fort Jackson, the home of the Support Battalion. Bearing the flag of Singapore and the Singapore Armed Forces, I shall try my very best to do my country proud.. Just like 2 of my seniors who had came out tops in previous year.. I will live this dream…

The power of social media

2011-08-08T08:01:00.001-07:00

Pace of Information

The success of facebook and blogger has transformed the way we communicate, but what is more startling is the pace of information, gossips and news, and how it reaches to the wider audience. I came across a posting on a wall, Singapore National Day: where are our national flags? http://forums.asiaone.com/showthread.php?t=41664. This article shows frightening signs of our national fabric and it worries me. What worries me more is the pace of this information that came to my attention.

The past

Before the general elections in May, I do not recall being so "connected" to political opinions, gossips and more. As I traces my memory, in the good old days when internet still sound so foreign to many, all these "gossips" are often heard in places like coffeeshops, void decks that are packed with aunties and uncles. The "opposition" complains of politics, frustration with policy implemented, high COE prices stays within the group. The fear of being "identified" when making harsh comments or even defamation suits making it harder for the "opinions" to spiral out of close circle.

Evolution of communication

With the introduction of Internet years ago, it has brought the world to ones home, at absolute convenience. Media starts to slowly raid internet as one powerful platform to market their product and gain global commerce standing. Coupling with the evolution of mobile communication, Internet entrepreneurs change the information model by bringing the world closer, to ones handphone. As mobile technology continues to grow at exponential pace, smartphone makers integrate more and more convenience in this little tool called handphone. With camera, video streaming, internet and more, it became more than a phone. No wonder smartphone became one of the highest subscribed phone in the market.

Facebook

The invention of this Facebook took the world by storm. The user friendly interface, walls, pages, groups, photo album, games, video, flash players, voting tools, check-in, sharing of information, etc are attracting users at lightning pace, making early players like Friendster and MySpace a minor in the market. And it is also the convenience of its information interface that makes information hungry people or Kaypos check facebook updates a daily routine. With its integration of apps in smartphones, it can only strengthen the addiction.

What has changed?

The need for people to complain as an avenue to release their frustration and make themselves heard has not changed, the mode of communication has. What stays within the inner circle in the past is now news for all. As long as you are part of the circle of friends, anyone that posts opinions, link of others' opinions, you are connected to the news. This connection is slowly but surely become the "poison" for the weaker minds.

Control

With internet governs by global community, I do not see any possible legal means to absolutely control how information are circulated. Websites like TRE, Mr Brown Show able to convey a variety of opinions are just a few examples to prove this point.

Effects

A simple analogy to describe this information age is like using a knife. The intention of the user is important, he can use it to cut or he can use it to kill. The blasting, challenge, alternative opinions during the General Elections and the coming Presidential elections by means of social media has proven effective. However, ill-intention can lead to grave consequences, tearing our society apart, our racial harmony, national identity in our people that we have painstaking built over years.

Are you worried?

Fundamental Error

2011-07-27T10:44:00.000-07:00

Today marks the lowest point of my career experience in Human Resource. Despite garnering past experience in recent months that senior management are scrutinising how our HR works behind the scenes to focus on developing and maximising human capital. We fumbled.

There is a fundamental error in the way the department function. I had admired Dr Goh Keng Swee about his spirit to be a good and capable second man to Mr Lee Kuan Yew in the founding years. Anticipating and drawing debates to strengthen the arguments before passing a law or policy. What happen to us?

I could not see eye to eye with my boss on moving forward. The heart issues are seemed to be tackled at the quantity of events or engagement done. I disagree.

Being excluded in the development and posting strategies often left me frustrated. Soul-search, is it a case that I am incompetent that led to this decision? I am puzzled.. It has not be inclusive the day I became deputy. Often explained is the mountainous volume of HR mandate transaction that I am involved, why load me with more.

This is the fundamental error. I could not effectively carry the policy or recommendations in his absence and explained to a group of frustrated senior management. Why? I asked.. if I do not know the big plan or discussion that arrives at the big plan, how can I be effective?

This is a fundamental error. The communication with my boss has to be more open. Don't miss the pound for the penny.
Sent from my BlackBerry Wireless Handheld from M1.

I am going to US!!

2011-07-14T07:58:00.001-07:00

Dream come true.. I have been longing to go for this course some 4 years back. But I have always been disappointed by my HR, telling me that only selected group with certain profile will be selected to represent the organisation. And I dun fit the bill.

After years of continued hardwork despite setbacks, finally, my senior management recognise me for my performance and capacity to hold important appointments. And now this reward.

Such ironic to think that I was contemplating to stay in this organisation just few months ago and even wanted to reject my promotion in Jun, and now I am committing another 3 years at least.

Whatever it is, these episodes had gone down history book and I look forward to learn from US and contribute when I am back.

Sent from my BlackBerry Wireless Handheld from M1.

Walking the Talk

2011-06-08T08:51:00.001-07:00

There is this saying “Walk the Talk”. This seemingly a little gesture yet majestic in value. While I do recognise that my organisation wants to develop our people with 2 things in mind:

1. Reward good performers, this would help to retain talent would they view would contribute much to the organisation.

2. Sending them for upgrading courses. With these development courses, they are exposed to other good practices in the market and they would be able to contribute and strengthen the system in the organisation further.

But how many bosses think the same way?

Lesson from Democratic Republic of Congo

2011-05-22T22:36:00.000-07:00

The news is splashed with reviews after the watershed Election. I wonder... Many thoughts ran through my mind when I was doing this research into the UN mission in Congo. I was very disturbed on the current plight of the nation. Said to be the richest country in terms of Natural Resources, in excess of US$24 Trillion, yet they are the 2nd poorest in terms of GDP per Capita. How can this be?

Greed, Corrupted Government

After the colonial masters left Congo, they were left to fend for themselves. A country boasting the size of Western Europe is definitely no small feat to manage. After the African War in the late 90s, neighbouring countries and rebels took the opportunity to control the mineral rich eastern Congo. The government has no control, or do they? They are earning huge royalties from mineral trading. Transparency International’s 2007 Corruption Perceptions Index identifies the DRC as one of the 10 most corrupt countries in the world and The World Bank rated the DRC’s enforcement of contracts as among the weakest in the world. http://www.economywatch.com/economic-statistics/Congo/Corruption_Perceptions_Index/. The judiciary’s ineffective enforcement of commercial contracts in the DRC has likely discouraged private sector investment and hence economic growth.

After their first election in 2006, efforts were made to strengthen this area. However, just look at their uniformed personnel who are paid a mere US$20 a month, and after a few months, many of them joined the militas instead. Why? Because they were set to "earn" more from looting.

Unstable Security Environment

Rape. The number 1 crime against human rights. An average of 48 women and girls are raped every hour in Congo. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-13367277. They are raped not just by the militas and rebels, but the government's Army is also amongst the offenders. You can imagine. Walking down the streets and even at home, it is not safe.

Crime. The DRC army, DRC police and other security forces have killed and tortured civilians with total impunity, summary executions and more. Militias forcefully conscript children from the villages they raid, training them to kill, rob and rape. This video shows an interview of a Congolese boy emphasising the need to kill for his own survival. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpd3ykS4QOQ. Self-survival at the expense of others is a natural call for them.

Lack of Basic Infrastructure

Lets not even talk about basic telecommunications. There are no roads linking 9 of the DRC’s 10 provincial capitals to the national capital and no roads linking the DRC’s northern and southern regions or its eastern and western regions.

http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d08562t.pdf. This makes lines of communications impossible. While they have the richest natural resources, how would the nation move forward in the economical sense? Investors anyone?

Loyalty to Country and Values

Rape, rob, raid, killing. Fear of violence forces hundreds of thousands to flee from their homes. This makes them one of the largest groups of Internal Displaced Personnel in the world. To me, senseless rape and robbing arising from poverty have absolute no ethical values in our context, but is this a norm to them? Militias and rebels forcefully conscripted children from the village they raid. These children are inculcated with these values from young, they are being taught to rape and kill for survival and for witch magic. So do they have a sense of attachment to the country while trying to find new homes every now and then, do they value another person's rights to live?

My Views

So what do these lessons mean to us?

Greed sets the foundation for failure in a nation, the current state in Congo is a testimonial to it. Being paid well is not just about getting the correct profile into the national front, but also to prevent a catastrophe of structural breakdown in a country with no natural resources to turn to.

Inculcating values starts from young. Congo has proven that a child's mind is pure, and inculcating the wrong values may potentially tear down a harmonious relationship we commonly share in our society made up various ethnic races.

Communication and infrastructure remains an important component in our important economic growth. Our growth continues to depend very much on our value system and the infrastructural development in our country.

Views?

Mixed Results, Change for the Better

2011-05-07T11:57:00.001-07:00

Touted as the toughest election PAP faced since independence. Under the rule of elder Lee, PAP has consistently won the votes of the people. There is not many opposition that is willing to come forward to stand for election, for traditionally, opposition always appeared to be suppressed; facing legal suit, bankruptcy and more. This year, unprecedented numbers of opposition came forward despite the tough history has proved that Singapore has mature as a nation in Politics. More young people are more willing to be involved, they are not afraid to speak up, posting tough and direct comments on new media like Facebook and Twitter.

Nicole Seah, the emergence of a young Nonya who is mature beyond her age. While she and her team did not win, her devotion and compassionate heart was her key campaign, she has brought politics closer to many more young Singaporeans.

I had mixed feelings from this General Election 2011. Watershed as predicted by many including our Prime Minister, Mr Lee Hsien Loong. Mandate drop almost across all seats contest with exception to Hong Kah North’s Dr Amy Khor, and PM outward admission that we hear you may drive the way PAP formulate their policy in the years ahead. I hope that it will turn out to be more consultative and Singaporeans first instead of corporatizing the nation toward economy growth centric. I am not saying that the PAP is lousy, it has done a wonderful job as government, come on… how many countries out there has come out of the financial crisis as well as Singapore did. But how many Singaporeans are left behind? The fact that middle and lower income wage has not been able to catch up with the growth surely have strained majority of our people. So what is so wonderful to be elated about when most of the people are struggling?

Think… and here’s the mandate.. With strong opposition on board, people are willing to forgo the comfort and explore the uncharted waters, Aljunied. PAP still has a strong mandate of close to 61% given that the rest of the opposition may need to catch up on their arguments to convince people that they are able to contribute and not disrupt. This is evident that people has their suspicions on Lain Chiam as she could not hold the debate well as shown in one of the political debate before election campaign. It was sad that Potong Pasir who has been the legendary landmark for opposition to slip and fall. What is more heart aching is the loss of 2 great man, Mr George Yeo and Mr Chiam See Tong. Results are extracted from www.ge.sg.

New Media

This year, social media, Facebook, Twitter, etc, heighten the tension during the election campaign, news travel quickly through posting and sharing of news article. The new found fame in the shortest time ever, Ms Nicole Rebecca Seah from National Solitary Party shot to fame as the public scrutinized against Tin Pei Ling. This new media has found its way into our politics campaigning and will continue to stay in our future politics. This also changed the way on how results are updated real-time. As I wait for the official announcement from the election department. I get to see real-time update from the collection centre, the recount, close fight, lead exchange hands as counting continues.

Loss of veteran opposition

We have lost our veteran opposition, Mr Chiam See Tong. An outstanding politician who had set an unprecedented longest serving opposition in Parliament since Singapore gained its independence. He was voted into Parliament in 1984 defeating PAP's Mah Bow Tan. His determination and perseverance has won many hearts in Potong Pasir that continue to elect him for 27 years. This year, he chose to come out of his comfort zone and lead a team to contest against Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Wong Kan Seng, Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC. It turns out to be a miscalculated move as his frail health (after suffering a stroke in 2008) perhaps did not give much confidence to the voters. Even given his record of accomplishment and sincerity, his team only managed to wrestle 43.06% Bishan-Toa Payoh from the ruling party. A great politician. I wish you health in your retirement.

WORKERS’ PARTY

Workers’ Party. Not only that they have a higher mandate from Hougang, they have achieved a historical breakthrough in Singapore Elections with a 54.71% win in Aljunied GRC since the introduction of GRC system in 1988. GRC was then introduced to ensure that there would be a minority representation in Parliament. Opposition had always faced challenges in putting a strong team together to contest against a stronghold of the ruling party with a Minister leading the team in a GRC. The fear of losing a Minister in a GRC has always been a tough decision for the people to choose. This year, Workers’ Party leader, Mr Low Thia Khiang, lead a team of ‘A’ team with a slogan “Towards a First World Parliament” to provide an alternative voice for the people.

Loss of a great Minister

The historical breakthrough has also sees a loss of a great Foreign Minister that had secured our economic and political future with our regional neighbour and the wider international community. It is unfortunate that Workers’ Party leader formed a ‘A"’ team and chose his GRC as a ground of contest due to the proximity of his Hougang Fortress. Mr Low’s influence may have spread over to parts of Aljunied GRC. It does not help that rising cost of living, ever rocketing housing prices and over-liberal foreign talents policy has driven frustrations on the ground, MM Lee strong words for Aljunied to “repent” during has perhaps anger the fence voters. He certainly did not deserve this; he has done a wonderful job as a MP and Foreign Minister. I wish him all the best.

Polling Day (General Election 2011)

2011-05-07T02:33:00.001-07:00

Judgment Day

My day started early at 0500hrs as I had to ferry my Queen to the polling station. My Queen is one of the officials at the polling station. Today is the judgment day, will my ruling party stays in power with total dominance or a watershed as predicted by many including PM, Lee Hsien Loong.

Tin Pei Ling again

I decided to treat myself to the news on the internet before catching some loss sleep. Guess what, TPL hits the headlines yet again.. This time for breaching the rules of the cooling day. Apparently, as claimed, her facebook administrator has used the wrong account (Her facebook account that is) to post on her Facebook page to clarify on reports that a MacPherson resident had been refused help for her child's tuition fees (See another blogger’s comment). Somehow, she managed to grab the headline for the wrong reasons at an incredible rate since her candidacy introduction. From her “excellent” aptitude as seen in many media interaction, she has effectively made herself a liability in this team. As a team, she probably would not have any problem getting elected credits to her strong party presence that include our Senior Minister, retired BG, 1 hardworking, humble and sincere MP (Fatimah). I am not even sure if she can get her deposit refunded if she was to stand for election in a SMC. Haise, will she be able to contribute much in the development of her elected estate. Let us suspend judgment and see in the next 5 years.

My Turn to poll

Getting excited to have that right to poll after my first attempt at Aljunied GRC. I waited until about 10am to skipped the morning rush (Cannot believe it, it was like the launching of iPad 2, the queue is so long at 8am) to make my choice. The both parties representatives were there, the agent and candidate, I suppose to check on the order and fairness on the conduct of the polls.

I took me less than 5 minutes to complete the whole voting. The choice to vote later saves me queuing time.

Entrance

I produced my poll card and my identity card to the poll station officer for verification. I then proceeded to the “registration” counter to get my sacred vote.

Registration Counter

My ID number was checked against their nominal roll of voters. The Malay lady strike my name off her document and announced the a serial number to the Chinese Officer sitting beside her. The Chinese officer wrote the number down onto the vote and repeated to another pair of Officers sitting across to write down in their documents. I suppose that this is to ensure that the vote issued is properly recorded by 2 pairs of Officers (2nd set as backup) in case there is any voter who wants try “stunts” to vote twice. And that the 2 pairs of Officers are seated across is to ensure fairness and there is no “small talks” between the 2 pairs of Officers during the recording process.

Voting Booth

The grey aluminum looking voting counter ensure that my vote is secret. It was a simple process, (If you have already decided and dun go into a state of confusion at this point), I cross in the grey box beside the party of my choice.

Ballot Box

To maintain secrecy, I folded my sacred vote into half and dropped it into the ballot box before I leave the polling station. What will be the outcome.. My anxiousness grew as time ticks by..