What are your thoughts on this year's National Day Rally?

Question

What are your thoughts on this year's National Day Rally?

Answer 1

Singapore Inc is a bad idea! It turns Singapore into a company & its directors only care about grown at the expenses of its original residents! the worst is the so called grown using GDP is a fake to hide the real problem in the economy-- poor productivity & low efficiency. Couple with practically no creativity, we have in fact a disaster on hand.



In addition, The Singapore Inc model affects the way the directors solves its major problem encountered: low birth rate. What they did is not to find the cause but to simply import as many as possible within a short span to make up for the numbers. The solution is fast & cheap but it is affecting the very basic social fabric! It change the demographic of the society at an alarming rate so that tension is almost irreversible!



Singapore is a lost cause if our citizen do not wake up to it. The coming Ge might be the last chance to reclaim the country from the directors of singapore inc! By the next GE, we will be the minority in our own country!

Answer 2

Well I like to mention about the foreign talent and new immigrant. The country has already taken so many of them in the last few years. Everywhere we go, we see so many China people, Filipino and other ASEAN countries people.



Suddenly I feel like a foreigner in my own country. Too many of them in too short time. Maybe it is time that they should stop taking in new immigrants. Give us a break for their competition with us in education for school, for our work, for our businesses, for our homes , for our recreational space.



If they continue to take in so many foreigners into this country in such a short time, these new immigrants may feel they are Singaporeans. But sadly, we the Singaporeans are feeling like foreigners.



So how are we going to have the Singapore Spirit if this goes on?

Answer 3

Every National Day, the Prime Minister gives a very positive to boost the morale of Singaporeans.



But thereafter, behind Singapore's back, the Singapore Government BACK STABS Singaporeans, from increasing public fares under the guise of "a fairer distance based fare" to unnecessarily artificially increasing day to day living costs and many more.



I am disappointed.

Answer 4

I am still thinking if my situation happened in my working place is an isolated case.... The PR/New immigrants from our very near neighbouring countries are really behaving like they are the Singaporeans and the native Singaporeans ate their subjects.... They seemed to be overseeing me like they are the new government and ganged up and landed me doing lower value works with no work satisfaction and not to say any opportunity for advancement. Furthermore, these people seemed to be supported by management of their relevant sources.....They are not competent but think they are FT and jeopardise all prospective native Singaporeans.... Will these people one day become a threat to our government which I supported wholeheartedly?



I am suffering...but dare not quit as I have no confident of getting another job because I am ageing ,.. but I am fit and competent......How???

Answer 5

Hmm.......how does the ave sporean benefit from the 15% to 18% growth ?



same tune every year, upgrading to improve productivity, etc



when u are jobless and no money, which is most impt ? having a job which we have to compete with the foreign talents (???) or spend more $$ to upgrading one self thru courses ?



i had a few friends who heed the govt advices by going for numerous course to upgrade themselves and still got retrenched and jobless now.



i would like to ask the govt.....how do you share the country economic growth and success with the sporean citizens ? from what i see now, they are telling us we have to increase our productivity to compete with the foreigners in our own country.



houses are getting expensive, foods prices are getting higher, jobs are getting tougher as we have to compete with foreigners, transportation and PUB bills are higher and their pay checks are getting higher.

Answer 6

Again and again same old motherhood statement like previous years.... "We need FT, welcome them ! " thats all you can say despite the many problems we true singpaporeans are facing ? come on !!! Total disappointment.

Answer 7

actually,i didn't watch it,i was mad at them for removing my favourite show on channel 8

Answer 8

I did not listen to the rally. I do not believe anymore talk. Talk is cheap. I do not believe any more statistics and economic growth, show me that I am living better than before.



Where is my swiss standard of living? A dream sold by the last prime minsister.



My dad owns a landed property and a car as just a telex operator and my mother a teacher. He works straight 8 hours only and only did one extra course in his life. Can I achieve it on same job? If not I am worse off than my parents time.



I earn much lesser and cost of living is much more than 10 years ago. But my skills and qualifications are at least two notch up. I did at least 30 additional courses since I got my degree, 10 professional certification. Still I am much poorer than 10 years ago. Am I better off? Obviously NO.



HDB 3 room can be as large as 82 sqm. 4 room can be 108sqm, 5 room can be 128sqm. Now, they are at least 15sqm smaller and more costly. Is my living better?



So do not tell me dreams. Do not tell me stories, do not tell me 15% growth. If I am not better off than my father, if I am not living bigger than before, if my spending power is diminishing, if I am more qualified but paid lesser and worse off, then its all empty to me.

Answer 9

I was having my dinner and need some white noise from the TV to enjoy my dinner. And all the Mediacorps channels are showing the NDR. I switched off my TV to save some electricity bills after finishing my dinner. Nothing extraordinary about his speech.

Answer 10

Cliche " Singaporeans always come first ! Million of Foreigner will join later !



Sigh......typical Politics plus Humbug.



I really miss our dear Dr. Goh Keng Swee.

Answer 11

Every National Day Speech or Rally, is meant to let Citizens have some light into our Government's plans to improve our lives, instil sense of National Pride into you and give you something to dream about. In short, it is to encourage you to strive harder and be more positive of your future as a Singaporean.



Education, is key and fundamental to our country's future as our children are pillars of our future's society and supports or maintains a steadfast economic progress for our country. The crux of it lies in how much benefits will really be accorded to our own breed and creed compared to the PRs and foreign students? In addition, how equal will it really be between the gap of the rich and the poor, giving true equality and fair competitiveness? Last but not least is whether our education system is turning our future generations into paper chasers and finally ending up in a never-ending cycle of bills to get by and settle?



As for foreign workers, reducing from 100,000 to 80,000 and slowing down the influx is quite a piece of good news. But then there is the part left out which is on allowing 45,000 Bangladeshi domestic workers (maids) to be recruited into Singapore. Bangladesh is considered as a Non-Traditional Source (NETS), used to be only for the marine and construction sectors but is it not adding on of 25,000 more foreign workers than reducing?



The Government engaging in the property market by introducing more new public housing off 22,000 units, increased from previous 16,000 units is a good measure to cool off the rising prices of properties. But what type of public housing? Designed and Built which price tag is as close to the private condominiums? Or is it going to be really affordable to Singaporeans? Furthermore, new restrictions imposed like increasing the number of years to reside then owner can sell it, is good. But why decrease percentage of loan amount from 80% to 70% for second property owners? Any measures taken for Senior Citizens who wish to buy a second property for his own use or retirement stay and leaving his first property to his off springs who may not be able to buy one on their own? Or in a divorce case, a spouse may have to get a second property so that appropriate accommodation be provided when the family splits up?



Singapore have a growing population of senior citizens. Are we forcing them to live under one roof, cramped up in a small flat, with married off springs and grand children? Is this the idea of a 3 tier family, suffocating in a single unit? Should we not consider our senior citizens who have slogged their lives and contributed to our Nation, in one way or another?



With Singaporeans seeking and dreaming of the 5 "C"s, marital woes surged and divorce rates went up and causing our birth rates to go down. When that happens, either one of the spouse may have to end up sleeping o the streets? Being a Singapore Citizen, why can't they buy a second property unit and have alternatives for their lives after or during their rough patch of their lives?



The decreased percentage from 80% to 70% on loans will not only make the above 2 categories of people's life more difficult but also adds on to their burden, ending up in another cycle of bills and loans to pay and to settle till they die. Does that mean Singaporeans are going to be like what our (SMM) LKY had said that all Singaporeans should not have any retirement age?



Dreams, aspirations, hopes,... it is up to every Singaporean to go for what they want and work for. I believe all Singaporeans will only really dare to dream, aspire and hope, if it is truly equal and fair to the 100% true Singaporean whose fore fathers had contributed to the building of our Nation and made us really as One United People.

Answer 12

I am very disappointed! Our PM trying very hard to convince the nation to accept the new immigrants and giving lousy examples as how well they did and he expects us to buy the idea and accept them? This is not the way to pacify us. We are still not happy with immigrant coming here too easy and too fast. Why the PM kept reminding us that we need the foreign talents and also the foreign workers otherwise we will be out-of-job? Have he forgotten we are the talent that made Singapore today? It seem that now to me, our economy depends largely by the foreigners, without them we will collapse? Mr Lee has also forgotten we are the people gone through the same education system set by our fore-father. I have plenty of colleagues who came in the morning and leave in the evening , to and fro of Singapore and called themselves" PR ONLY HOR!" :-( As a Singaporean, we all served the nation but I realize we have almost the same entitlement as a PR.



The property markets has been ridiculous since the beginning of the year. Countries around us including China & Hong Kong have already made a at least one implementation to stabilize the rising property market. Do we really needs to wait for the Rally to announce the measure? Didn't you realize foreigners have already invaded our property market? Our local buyers has been waiting too long for this? After reading your proposal, I almost freak out! The measure is to curb local and nothing going to affect the foreigners shopping spree here? What is this? I m one of the sandwich group who are dying to buy a resale flat and realize most sellers are PR who don't even stay in Singapore? They are asking sky high COV selling to me "Singaporean", sad, right? Whats more, some divorcees each own a HDB before they got remarried? I think the HDB office needs to work harder. You have so many restrictions and yet you lost touch n count on your own system/

Answer 13

Part 1

While it is good that PM lee address some of the issue facing singaporeans. I find that while his solution solve problems at surface it fails to solve problems at the root



1. bringing in more foriengers would only slow down the declining population, but it would not stop the decline. In fact the more forienger the more decine in the number of singpaoreans born babies.



2. The government has always thought that we singaporean are against foriegn workers and foriegn talents. The thing is no singapore is against them. I now have to define both of them. foreigner worker are worker from foriegn country that do jobs that no singaporean want to do, like mid night shift and contruction and cleaning. Foriegn talents are forienger that is the elites in their industries or area of expertise. I and many singaporean welcome those 2 since we know we cannot do without the former and also our conditions would improve due to the influences of the latter.



But what me and many singaporean are against is foriegners workers, which is define as those people that come and take jobs in areas where singaporean want to work in, and moreover the foriegners under define are not a lot more capable than the local they replace. Foriegner workers includes PRs also.



So it is not the number that is the concern, nor is the speed, it is where the workers goes to that is the issue. If the governmetn can ensure that only real talents come and the non talents only take jobs that singaporean shun, then I dont see any issue about foriegners coming. Of cause too many and too fast is still no good since our capcaity may still be limited.

Answer 14

Managing Singapore is like a super large company trying to manage 6 million employees

It is not easy to please everyone.

BUT a wrong move or direction from the government will bring disaster.

Still remember the “2 is enough policy” what happened many years after? (what had happened to Singapore now in 2010)

“Foreign talents” do contribute to the economy. The same question, what will happen to Singapore when we have 10 million people of mixed identity?

Will we have a population explosion? What are the effects? More expensive housing example

(I am not an expert on this matter, perhaps some experts out there would care to do a study)

Answer 15

I think the speech is all wayang talk. Since GE is coming around so the speech is written such that it will calm most of the NOISE from the general public regarding housing, education etc. But after GE, its back to increase of public transport cost, increase housing cost and so on But govt will give you a small rebate as a token for their reason to increase all the pricing to make you feel better for a short period.

Cost of public housing is ever increasing. I find it hard to buy even BTO flats let along resale ones. The aim of HDB should be clear. Make it a mission to let every singaporean the ability to own a HDB flat and not make money out of selling BTO flats. The price of BTO flats HDB claim is the subsidized cost but how can it be subsidized when the cost of the BTO flats now is 100K or more than a few year ago?

I guess HDB only used the average selling price nowadays, minus away all the grant they will give estimate $40000 and minus off the average COV amount average $30000 and you get the price of the BTO flats. So what subsidy are they talking about.

Singapore no doubt is a safe country to live and let our children grow up in but the cost of living is so high that the average singaporean find it hard to cope with. Even the minister's wages is increasing but not the general workforce wages.

Hope they will do more for Singaporeans!

Answer 16

The PM has done an excellent job by addressing all the major concerns that Singaporeans are facing, such as education, housing and transportation. I can't agree more that every child has different potentials and we need to nurture them.



I am particulary touched when the PM announced that two buildings will be named after Dr Goh Keng Swee, the architect of our nation. One area that could have been covered is the Aging Population.



I was moved to tears when I saw the video clips on the opening ceremony of the YOG.



I am proud and truly blessed to be a Singaporean.



Kudos to our governement for what they have done for the nation. We are small, but we have big dreams.



Majulah Singapura !

Answer 17

The speech delivered by our Prime Minister had been well rounded, touching on majority Citizens concern. While acknowledging past efforts of early ministers, also highlight on the visions of Singapore, the progress and strength of Singapore, and the difficulties we are facing.



To those whom are having huge dissatisfaction with the current government, it can be understood why as well. However take heed Singapore will not be slowing down. It's individual choices whether to keep up and catch the wave or being under the wave.



Singapore's early ministers had done a terrific job in the past few decades, in the process of building our nation, fulfilled majority early settlers dreams to achieve prosperity and a place we call home. Confucius saying, to manage a nation well, first, make the people prosperous, thereafter, educate them, lead with a just hand and it starts with the leaders, thereafter will citizens follow. Work hard, work smart, yet don't overdo or under-perform. All these ideals are being observed and well carried out, therefore, we had been seeing miracle in the past few decades.



Asked if our government is a good one from the past to current? From the bottom of my heart, yes. Will I vote for them with the upcoming election? Maybe no.. because of self interest that current citizen is the key, it's not always about the projected growth which cannot immediately relief our discomfort.



With the on going stimulants and thrusts to propel Singapore to be a top economy, problems too emerged, good portion of the citizens are under stress to catch up with the higher standard of living and the blistering pace of economic progress. Industries are growing more uncertain, medical care are getting hard to afford, shopping centers are getting too congested for comfort, make a rally speech and citizens hang to their words, waiting for the next touch of gold and highlights on supported industries. The list goes on. The underlying reasons converged to, because government rules are mandate, thereafter a conforming society will be more suiting.



Citizens whom feels uncomfortable definitely will like their voices to be heard and answered, we need changes even if it means slow down and hear us out.

Answer 18

Generally disappointing after hearing it.

I think PM Lee will still stick to the some policy or thinking.

He ask us all to bare with it, in regards to Housing, transportation, FW/FT influx issue.

The given answer was simple, "you just have to be more productive" " Don just work hard " " learn to work smart".

Well my thinking are also simple, the issue with current high housing price and clam transportation are the result of FW/FT/PR influx. I have no personal issue with those (FW/FT/PR) decent people looking for a better life here but i have to ask the government ( The controller & Planer ) to explain why so fast so many? This has put on stress to everyday citizen's livelihood and so you (PM LEE) said some unhappy few have to be more understanding and welcome them. So its every 3 singaporean (young, old or few baby) to 1 foreigner, i don have to use the word how i feel to see the change around me which Impact everything. I think some foreigner will feel unwelcome too. There will be more problem to come if carry on like this.

Our well build infrastructure are on extra weight of around 33% for now if base on the number 1 plus 3. Did the planner have ever considered it before you open the gate?

I hope you don tell us to bare the unbearable in time to come.

Please show us what had the "current government" has done, not how good our previous minister did.

It mislead people what today's leader had contributed to this nation. I just disappointed to heard it.

Answer 19

There should be a distinction between foreigners who come here to work and those who are married to Singapore citizens. Many of those who are married to Singaporeans are still not given Long Term Visit Pass of 6 months or more, don't talk about PR status. I don't really understand what the Government is doing - on the one hand they are saying that we need foreigners to work here, but on the other hand, foreigners who are married to Singaporeans are not treated as part of the family. This has generated a lot of unhappiness and conflicts for these people.



Walter

Answer 20

wow ... so much negative respond. I think the ruling party really have to listen closer to the ground. It is true the Rally speech was full of distraction and no real focus on problematic issues. What do CEO tell their company staffs? Just make sure you deliver on the target set or you will be left behind. So Singapore youth, this is your wake up call ... you have become soft and soon you will be replaced and become a burden to society. For the rest of us, haven't you heard from the PM's father? You will not be able to retire. Just work till you enter your grave. I guess that's what being a Singaporean is all about.

Answer 21

Listening to the PM National Day Rally, reading the recorded speech and the thoughts on this YA channels,I am rather amazed by the different ways of thinking and doing things. Some thoughts expressed here seem disturbing e.g Justice Singapore`s comment;as I have no sources to confirm . On my view, our PM and his team had done us proud and as the challenges now and the future intensify ,I earnestly hope that this team or the next and future one would have the same drive and courage to spearhead our country. I had my NS in the years of 70s ,quite similar to PM Mr Lee; Col .Dr Goh visited us ( I was in the picture somewhere) to inspect the School of Arty OCT Passing Out Parade. He was Col of SA and he dressed up like one.This is a man truly committed to his job/duty.I pay him my respect when he was laid in Parliament House. Commitment is the word i emphasis.

Answer 22

The speech was fantastic. Addressing most of the problems at hand. I was totally taken in by the amount of propaganda. As much as I want to believe all will work out fine, I can't help but have reservations. From the past few years till now, globalisation (as much needed as it is) has created social problems for us and the govt has taken a reactive approach. My dad's still unmemployed for YEARS (we've given up on that already), we're struggling to make ends meet while the govt boasts of thriving economic growth. How does that help Singaporeans at the individual level esp for the low and middle income group? There's something to think about and they're not thinking hard enough.



Lim Swee Say "Cheaper, faster, better"

MM Lee "No retirement age for Singaporeans"

V. Balakrishnan "How much do you want? You want three meals a day at the hawker centre, food court or restaurant?"



Competition prevails at virtually every aspect of our lives and more so with the influx of foreigners. What is our quality of life at present? I don't anticipate a better quality of life, but rather, conversely.

Answer 23

I think that our Dear PM have delivered a good speech which covered a lot of issues in hand.

After reading a lot of comments posted here, I must mentioned that it is really not an easy job to run a government here just like everywhere else. And our government has did a pretty good job in most issues and problems, although there are still areas for improvement like housing and work issues.

I think that the government should improve the current housing policies more as I am a early parent still without my own flat and HDB has not done a great job in their balloting exercise nor the prices control of public housing. The prices are getting unreasonably high for both new and resale flats which I believe that without a minimum wage policy, the flats will be unaffordable for a lot of young Singaporeans. Even if they can afford now, they cannot afford to stop working or fall sick as it will means they will not be able to serve their HDB loans as their CPF are empty without any backup.





ColvinTay

Answer 24

The property markets has been ridiculous since the beginning of the year. Countries around us including China & Hong Kong have already made a at least one implementation to stabilize the rising property market. Do we really needs to wait for the Rally to announce the measure? Didn't you realize foreigners have already invaded our property market? Our local buyers has been waiting too long for this? After reading your proposal, I almost freak out! The measure is to curb local and nothing going to affect the foreigners shopping spree here? What is this? I m one of the sandwich group who are dying to buy a resale flat and realize most sellers are PR who don't even stay in Singapore? They are asking sky high COV selling to me "Singaporean", sad, right? Whats more, some divorcees each own a HDB before they got remarried? I think the HDB office needs to work harder. You have so many restrictions and yet you lost touch n count on your own system/

Answer 25

The speech was well delivered as always. Issues discussed were very relevant to the ordinary citizens. But I am dissapointed that more was not done to the ever increasing Cash Over valuation (COV). HDB flats should be for basic needs and not for making money. The value of the flat should be determined by HDB in view of current market and not by the ordinary person hoping to make a quick buck. The government keep saying about increasing the number of flats. But not everyone is eligible and can only buy resale flats which has been comparable to the prices of private apartments. Please do something to ensure the main of objective of HDB flats......for affordable homes for the ordinary Singaporeans!!!!!!

Answer 26

I think it is a pre-election strategy appearing to tell voters that the PAP is listening to the electorate and responding!



What does "slow down the inflow" mean? Why is this never quantified? If this cannot be quantified and the enforcement procedures cannot be explained what kind of plan is that? Obviously there is no execution plan so it is just another public relations exercise.



MOM, the gatekeeper, never checks to see if applications to bring in foreigners are really necessary. They have no control or internal audit to check on their own work. An independent organisation (like PWC, etc.) should be appointed to vet these applications to make sure that all applications are bona fide.



Stop issuing Singapore Permanent Residency (SPR) like free movie tickets and that will slow the inflow. Carry on issuing work passes only since this is what is really needed. Foreigners should have worked in Singapore for a minimum of say 5 years before they can apply and be considered for SPR.



Applicants and foreigners should be called for interviews (at their costs) and applicants should be subject to prosecution if they are found to be lying that they are unable to find Singaporeans to do those jobs. There is so much rubbish going on there and that is why we have been having poorer quality and productivity as well as a poorer standard of living for most Singaporeans and a growing covert hostile work environment.



If you want a foreigner to come and work in Singapore, and MOM refuses, just write a sob story and tell MOM what the foreigner can do in the future!!! Bring in your Mother, Father, Brothers, Sisters, Cousins, relatives, in-laws and friends or who ever and just tell MOM they are all necessary!!!



There are of course a good percentage of genuine "foreign talent" but the majority is just cheap labour that should just not be here at all. These foreigners who have been given an opportunity to come here from developing countries now tell us we Singaporeans are not suitable for jobs, etc. and their friends and relatives are!

Answer 27

Me too I don`t Like the **** being called Singapore Inc. Thats rubbish, How can you run a country like a company. There is a real problem at the base, A strong undercurrent, those has to be addressed. I don`t believe in the GE that Singaporeans will wake up and all.That will not happen if a few hundred dollars carrot ( GST rebate )given.

Anyway I don`t give importance to the Rally speech or even to watch it.

Answer 28

I never ever listen to the national day rally speech. I just work, earn enough money and have the life I wanted. so far, No problem at all. I had my HDB fully paid, I managed to buy things I wanted, spent 2 holidays per year ( one short haul & 1 long haul ) . I spent most of my time overseas, Every 2 months, I will be back to Singapore for a month. In my recent returned to Singapore in July, I must said that.....really there are too many FW around in MRT , Coffee Shop , Shopping Center...etc.

Answer 29

All those talks are great, very forward-looking and the correct way to go, for Singapore. These are the ingredients for a harmonious and prosperous future for Singapore and Singaporeans, old and new.



But, no doubt I am not throwing cold water on such promising insight, what I dislike most are the constant trumpet-blowings of the past glories by the previous leaders and so forth. Past performances, when correct & right (on hindsight), will not guarantee future's outcome. Please reflect on some of mistakes in previous policies and not to repeat them. Better still, apologies to the people who were affected directly or indirectly by those errors of judgement and I will be very, very proud of the genuine leadership, who are after all human like anyone else, able to admit their mistake/s.



Majority of Singaporeans are descendents of immigrants, so, I have no qualms about new immigrants. And as a true-blue 4th generation Singaporean, I won't ask for any charity or handouts.



I can fight and compete, with whomever, on the same footing and level playing field any day anytime.



The NDR was great, please put it into practise, thanks!

Answer 30

Nation Day Rally is never an occassion to make its people unhappy. It is always abt the happy things etc so I say let the action do the talking. I hope that our government can be more transparent and be RESPONSIBLE and ACCOUNTABLE for the problems. Failed investment by town council, YOG overspending - 100 mil - 300+ mil. Why and how did that happen? And imagine with that much money spend vs the quality of food our volunteer is getting etc? Why why why? Show us what you mean I am sure many people are watching.

Answer 31

I saw the National Day Rally speech by Our Prime Minister Lee Hsien Long. Its was very well done as he can speaks Chinese,Malay and English Version. The speech was fantastic as he dun have to look at the Pages and read out the message,just like Obama very free flow with his speech, no hesitation,bold,versatile words etc.This is what we called Leadership.The voices is strong as he spoken.The audiences will watched and see what the government had done for us and do for us in the near future.Every word and every details is being absorbed by them . He proves his point what we have done so far as a red dot city.Yes. he have spoken the past and the present of the YOG achievement, the donation and so on.But we should look from now right up to another 20 year what Singaporean can attain and achieve.First is the small enterprise which he did emphasize,he is on the right track,as many countries in Asian have neglected the Small companies and thus far are unable to achieve their economy growth. Take for example Indonesia no support from the government and small companies doing business for 20 - 30 years with 1500 workers but when the China goods encroached into the market,Indonesia small companies collapsed and leave many jobless, In Jakarta alone more than 2- 3 million are unemployed .Second is the advance Technology: With advance Technology and Machinery then i think Singapore will have a stable growth for another 20 years ahead of us.3) Breed Pure Singapore do to global business and get back the bacon by partnering with the government or oversea MNC companies but we will be the lead in the joint venture.4) As Singapore is a cosmopolitan city and a tourist attraction, the government can build their own Hotels to attract the tourist and make more revenue. In Indonesia , the government indeed own some of their hotels etc.Well we must look ahead as the China chinese always said :Wa Meng siang qiang kang mean we look ahead. Sorry for my chinese words not profound but i meant well for Singapore.

Answer 32

Education, is key and fundamental to our country's future as our children are pillars of our future's society and supports or maintains a steadfast economic progress for our country. The crux of it lies in how much benefits will really be accorded to our own breed and creed compared to the PRs and foreign students? In addition, how equal will it really be between the gap of the rich and the poor, giving true equality and fair competitiveness? Last but not least is whether our education system is turning our future generations into paper chasers and finally ending up in a never-ending cycle of bills to get by and settle?



As for foreign workers, reducing from 100,000 to 80,000 and slowing down the influx is quite a piece of good news. But then there is the part left out which is on allowing 45,000 Ba

Answer 33

I agree with cocoon, choo & BLUR. I just sold my hdb 4 room and stay in my sister house. cause my CPF is insufficient to to pay up the bank loan in five years time every year interest keep on increasing . 10 years ago I brought a 3 room flat and getting a 40k grant after 5 to 6 years I sold away the house which I do not earn any cash profit.and brought a 4 room in the open market which is 230k and getting the bank loan of 170k and been paying for 7 years but the figure still stay there.

I got no choice got the sell away the house before they come and seal the house. Right now if I buy a house from BTO I need to come dig out 55K cash just for the levy. Open market variation very high and need 40k cash. Do you think all singaporean got so much cash in our pocket. What can I do my son is asking me when can we have a cheaper house to stay. please advice.



We just dress nice and smart on the outside but in our pocket on the left side there is one big hole on the right side there is bills not $$.

Answer 34

Many of my negative thoughts turned positive after Prime Minister, Mr Lee Hsien Long's speech.

I use to question - is the influx of foreign workers and emigrants really necessary, will Singaporean have lesser rights in future, will the over-crowded train problem be solved etc. There is some clarity

now and I guess we will be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Answer 35

Everything was fine about the PM's speech. But yesterday in 1 day I saw 3 terrible incidents on the MRT which made me start to wonder about the PM's plans for immigrants.



1. A local old man requested a young foreigner to give up his reserved seat. The youngster refused of course and started verbal abuse to the old guy for about 10 mins. till he got off the train



2. 2 young foreigners fighting away that it almost came to a fist fight (no idea what the fight was about)



3. 1 local and 1 foreigner both young also arguing for what i don't know but almost coming up in arms against each other.



This is becoming a wee bit worrying. What happened to the gracious society that we have built up ( we locals) and the graciousness that the government is always trying to encourage.



Now there are talks among the locals that whether it is safe and advisable to remain in Singapore. For those who have children studying abroad have them thinking either to join their children or to encourage their children to remain there and not to return as we as locals are not getting any special preferences so there is no carrot dangling here for them to return.

Answer 36

Good speech. Well defined and explained. But not convincing. Maybe we have too much discouragement until it overshadow all the good works done.



It is very unhealthy and dangerous that despite all the good works done; we don't feel good or

patriotic as before.



I sincerely hope that our goverment can mitigate such feeling. Without any doubt, PAP is a good

goverment. But I fear we are too discourage to appreciate. Maybe we are going too fast without

sufficient buffer to cushion the impact.



Most will understand our goverment directions. But it is the day to day events - overcrowded MRT

stations; adapting to influx of many foreigners; workplace competition; etc. that may cause u to

think twice. Are we on the right path ???

Answer 37

Frankly speaking, our government needs to understand that their policies had deviated along with time. What our society required is foreigner talents, not just foreigners in huge numbers to make up for the targeted increase in population to feed the enlargement of infrastructure.



The recent influx of foreigners had no doubts created a huge gap in employment between locals (citizens only, not P.Rs) and the foreigners (includes P.Rs). Our P.M had been talking about revolutional changes top current education systems, not a bad idea, but reluctant to admit, that no matter how good our education system becomes, singaporean still can't compete with the foreigners on low starting wages which eventually resulted in advantages at a later stage, losing out also with foreigners holding non-recognised certificates which were being used in pars with what we have.



How can our government turned a blind eye to what's happening around us?? Take for example, the 3 companies i've worked for, 2 past companies & current one, I'm the only singaporean around in the office, true-borned singaporean, singaporean that serves the army, singaporean that really serves the nation. Does our ancestors, our parents, ourselves, did all the efforts in the past to make what singapore is today... just for foreigners??? Majority of them are not talents and such talents should not exceed 10% of our population and employment.



My dear government, I know all blogs were closely monitored and i know you will read this, please help the singaporeans & perhaps our next generation. Do not give away Permanent Resident status so easily to anyone. I knew of some applicants who don't even know how to write their own names had been approved with a P.R status, do you really accept them as talents?



We do need talents, real talents, even investors, but not people who's here to dig monies, unless the government can ensure 0% unemployment in our country. The unemploment rates should be calculated based on local-borned singaporean ONLY, not including P.Rs which had been conferred by the recent policy changes.



I strongly believed that "No one country will strive to build everything just for the benefit of others." Thank You.

Answer 38

Disappointing. There is really little new solution given for our set of current problems faced by us the citizens.



Well i suppose the problem with the influx of foreign talent would be here to stay for more then awhile, i was kinda mystify that since increasing the national population is of such importance, wasn't there a detailed plan to assimilate all this new residences into our social fabric? Because by creating such a big debacle from the massive inflow of FT which lead to overcrowding of our public transport and roads and housing be properly planned would bring adverse effect on our current citizens? Which would then create greater disparity between the old and the new citizens?



For example a day off the car for every 6 or 7 days of driving? This might reduce the effective number of cars on road each day thus easing congestion. Introduction of 3rd hand buying of HDB rule for new immigrant? (2nd hand buying remain with citizen as pr who brought a 3rd hand home when they came initially would have became a citizen by the time they are entitled to change homes?) which would follow in the original sprite of HDB, of solving the housing issues and promote HDB flats as a primary tool for housing and not speculation (since this would effectively reduce the amount of buyers of 2nd hand housing thus not as attractive tool as a short term investment tool?) and expending the capacity of current train by extending the platform of current train stations to fit in an additional cabin or 2?



We simply cannot leave our current system as it be and tell the citizen that this is what we have and you either suck it up or find a better living yourself. Theres a meaning why civil service is called civil service. Not to detach yourself from the people that you're suppose to serve. Just my 2cents worth of ideas(and comments).

Answer 39

I am very disappointed! Our PM trying very hard to convince the nation to accept the new immigrants and giving lousy examples as how well they did and he expects us to buy the idea and accept them? This is not the way to pacify us. We are still not happy with immigrant coming here too easy and too fast. Why the PM kept reminding us that we need the foreign talents and also the foreign workers otherwise we will be out-of-job? Have he forgotten we are the talent that made Singapore today? It seem that now to me, our economy depends largely by the foreigners, without them we will collapse? Mr Lee has also forgotten we are the people gone through the same education system set by our fore-father. I have plenty of colleagues who came in the morning and leave in the evening , to and fro of Singapore and called themselves" PR ONLY HOR!" :-( As a Singaporean, we all served the nation but I realize we have almost the same entitlement as a PR.

Answer 40

Aaaiiiiyahhh... Let's face it, it is still only the rich who will benefit from the newly implemented systems. Property measures? 80% loan for 1st time 70% for 2nd property? Whichever it is, does anyone know that there are rich single buyers who can buy more than 10 to 20 units at one single condo launch? What does these loan mean to them? NOTHING! So does the average income earner or new upgraders able to afford to buy? Yes, but still at a higher price. The only measure to curb these speculators - now up to the gvt to decide....

Education? It reminds me of the time where I visited the chicken farm and looked at the poor little chicks only a few weeks old, it was fed with kind of bio-chemical or hormonal enhanced feed and after several weeks, it's ready to be sold to the market as adult chicken, and it still has the sound of baby chick. Those poor little chicks!

Answer 41

I happy to hear our Prime Minister Lee Hsien Long's say, make me very proud as Singaporean,only i hope Singapore goverment will do more to Singaporean, help Singaporean fist,im sure PAP will more understand Singaporean internal problem,



Like me i be Bankrup because i gerentor my friend,my friend play me,i hope Goverment will help me to let me out from Bankrupcy, so i can be like other Singaporean to have a dream.

Answer 42

Its an orgy of self glorification while demeaning the contributions of earlier immigrants to nation building by bundling them together with more recent ones. Time may proof that recent immigrants are no more than economic mercenaries who will not hesitate to emigrate again when they find better economic rewards elsewhere. On the other hand, older immigrants of my father's generation do not have the choice to leave because of the communist government in China and the relatively more severe hardship (famines, persecution among others) there and do not have the resource or capability to go to some other country.

Answer 43

It's a one way Communication... One talk and all listen. He say that he understand our saturation, but i wonder if he really know our saturation... we need someone that faces competitors from the outside world to understand what it feels like to be over taken by them.



Does he know that most of the bosses here in singapore are foreign worker? The foreign worker here only think about their own pockets. How well does he knows about how the companies in singapore are really making us their first priorities?



Its pointless to have a Rally if it's only to listen and to follow. We really need some solutions. We do not need more schools if they are not so many foreign students here. Spending money to build more schools will only invite more foreigners.



I really wish the gov will invest more on their own people (singaporean). Help those that really need helps. lower down the Standard of living for singaporean and increase the Standard of living for foreigners. that is what dubai is doing.

Answer 44

Was a bit disappointed that the birth rate issues were not discuss in much details.

Firstly, its appreciative to hear that the government has already acknowledged its citiizen concerns on the large influx of foreigners (worker/immigrant). And they have already let in so many of them and has promised to slow down to let the local take breather. So what about the longer term? are we expecting another wave of foreigner or new immigrants few years down the road as I see the longer term fix to this problem is to find way getting the local start producing again. The respective ministry would have to review why the past policies had failed in increasing the fertility rate.

Answer 45

The decreased percentage from 80% to 70% on loans will not only make the above 2 categories of people's life more difficult but also adds on to their burden, ending up in another cycle of bills and loans to pay and to settle till they die. Does that mean Singaporeans are going to be like what our (SMM) LKY had said that all Singaporeans should not have any retirement age?

Answer 46

On foreign "talent", appreciate government's effort to comfort native Singaporeans but stress the need to remain competitve.



Singaporeans are not against the import of foreign talents if, and only if:



1. Singapore issue work permit to those who have talent/ skills/ money that Singaporeans are lacking (i.e jobs that require skills which Singaporeans do not have); and



2. the foreign talents working here CAN create new jobs for Singaporeans (and not bring their friends and relatives from their home countries to take away jobs from Singaporeans).



The government may like to be more vigilant when issuing work permits. For jobs that Singaporeans can fill, work permit should not be issued. (Note: One work permit issued to a single foreigner would potentially lead to many work permit subsequently issued to their family members in Singapore.)



The government would also be differentiaiting foreign TALENT vis-a-vis foreign WORKER. Trust that the government is also aware that not all foreigners are TALENT and hence, renewal of permit to worker should be more stringent.



Following PM Lee's message, we know that we could rely on the government to ensure that Singaporeans will always have priority over jobs that Singaporeans can undertake.

Answer 47

I agree and support Cocoon. PM's speech also mentioned that the govt will increase the workers levy to curb the influx of foreign workers. The PM need to be made aware that its the foreign talents, eg. clericals and supervisory staffs, managers, etc, that are adding to our Singaporeans concern and not the foreign general workers we find in the shipyards or the construction industries, or the maids and factory workers. So, by Increasing the workers levy, I think it is not going to help the Singaporeans in anyway and instead, add burden and increases additional operating cost for companies. In other words, opening the flood gates for FT to compete and share jobs that are in demand by Singaporeans and closing the gates to jobs that Singaporeans shun.

To-ba lek concept. Pls review.

Answer 48

To all SINKaPOOReans whom complain so much from A-Z about Singapore & its Govt, If you are not happy, leave lah! there is so many countries in the world which you can find a decent job with a decent pay. and its possible to lead a happy, healthy & stress free life. Be it alone or with your family. I am not happy living in my own country of birth, complain so much also wont get me anywhere. I left with only S$2K in my wallet and the rest is history. I am happy now and newly wed to my long time gf whois also a Singaporean. 5 years overseas happy and not looking back. My thoughts abt this years NDR is the same like any other NDR in recent years. So people, move forward. Think out of the box for a moment. To stay and not be happy? or to move on and search something new and better somewhere? That is all. thank you for reading from a FT from Singapore.

Answer 49

Is the government really sincere about controlling the property market. The measure put in earlier seems to be just for show only but not sincerely controlling the ever increasing prices. Based on what is announced today (70%, holding from one year to 3 yrs), it seems to be another just-for-show to appease the people. Why not make it 50% for 2nd home and above?. If government is sincere and not out to make more revenue, why impose stamp duty, why not impose buyer has to hold for 3 yrs and cannot sell unless there is a good reason.

Just like the COE, are we sincere about controlling car population. I don't know. What i can see is just more revenue for government by decreasing quota and causing the COE to be more expensive. What i can see is more ERP and increases in ERP charges stating it is to alleviate peak hour jams but again indirectly increasing revenue. Did we really solved the peak hour jams with ERP charges, did we really control car population with COE?. While, the spirit of Singapore is true and sincerely felt by all in Singapore but the spirit of the way government implement measures, it seems just to increase revenue for government but not sincerely to do what they said the measures are for.

Answer 50

Hi

I appreciate the effort by PM Lee in trying to allay Singaporean's fears about foreign talents, PRs and its related issues of over-crowding, HDB, transport... etc. Just wonder how the government is going to solve an issue that is not addressed so far - that of the greying population. It is not unreasonable to assume that for every foreign talent brought in, who becomes PR or citizens later, 2 elderly parents soon accompany and too becomes PR. This is especially true for foreign talents who comes from country with single-child policy and elderly parents are vulnerable if left alone in country of origin. So, for a foreign talent who comes in to work and obtain PR or citizenship, his wife comes in soon with a child and in a year or two, both their parents (i.e. 4 eldery persons) join in the greying population statistics as well. Just wondering what will the extra burden to our health care system by like and what plans does the government have to address this.



Another observation, from the attendees of course that are highly subsidised by WDA, it is very obvious that more than 70% are PRs and not local citizens. Also wondering what is happening to tax payers' contributions? money that are poured in to train foreign talents who may not be here for long?

Answer 51

As one who's older than Singapore, I don't believe in seeing beautiful pictures or slides. You need to live within Singaporeans in heartland just to feel & understand them. Nice pictures/slides are for kids.

Singaporeans do have many concerns but cannot or will not bring them out because of reasons only Singaporeans can understand. I hope to see more hard working, happy and health Singaporeans spending time with loved ones and doing more actitivies/sports together than just chasing a selfish dream. A city country should have it own live force with or without F1 / YOG / IR /etc. This Singapore spirit should be for all Singaporeans to build on and from base upward and not from top downward. Singaporeans should also build this spirit on their own without any GRASSROOTS' help because Grassroots got more important things to do ;-)

Answer 52

The housing issue could temporary ease the $$$$$ of HDB going up. Though, I am waiting for my new flat to come the next 2 or3 yrs , I hope more solid solution to resolve this issue to prevent property from going overnight,

My suggestion,AS PR who purchase flats here, Are those normally got chase by the Agent to buy in rush and being instill fear on them, hence, causing the price to go up.

My feel is they should pay double the tax if not 3x the tax if they sell their HDB flat.



The NS men who will be receiving the award, I do not kmow is wise for this young people morally?

but, I wil think this will lessen the burden of the old folks when their son grow up and need $ for study and buy house.



More people will grow old vwry soon, This topic is not touch, Maybe higher health susidy for 62yrs of age and above, Rewrd for those who are 65 yrs old, may be pay them $200 a month for them to tie over.

Most of this age group people are not able bodies and they will be shun away by employer.



I am not asking for more to be given out...but if you have budget to give away...NSman and old people?ask the men who have serve his good 2yrs or more....



I spoke to my youger frens, nephew, colleagues, all say they prefer to rec' $ at the old age.

Answer 53

I HOPE THE GOVERNMENT SEE THIS. All in all to summarize i think at least the government hears the people and at least they are trying to do something for us, a big thank you. All other issues (housing, education, floods, transportation etc etc) can be solved (at least I believe) slowly in the years to come, the main root of the problem now is TOO MUCH FT, FW. I have to agree that we do need some FT FW but not too much, that's the root of all complains if the government realised. I dun know how much is the right number, but 30k-50k sounds reasonable.

Answer 54

Finally, the marginalised has a dawn of Hope.

NS is able to buy a home.

There is an alternative of dual education.

Hope Employers will follow the Government new approach of giving the marginalised a decent minimum salary in line with the increase cost of living.

Yes, the People should be praise.

Good Show.

Answer 55

What I couldn't stand were the satisfied, smiley faces of the audience during the rally. So fake. I acknowledge tat the S'pore govt is workg hard for her people but the picture was painted over-rosy during the speech. Too positive. Which explains the contentment on the audience's faces? No mention of the underprivileged n marginalised in our society.

Answer 56

finally ending up in a never-ending cycle of bills to get by and settle?



As for foreign workers, reducing from 100,000 to 80,000 and slowing down the influx is quite a piece of good news. But then there is the part left out which is on allowing 45,000 Bangladeshi domestic workers (maids) to be recruited into Singapore. Bangladesh is considered as a Non-Traditional Source (NETS), used to be only for the marine and construction sectors but is it not adding on of 25,000 more foreign workers than reducing?



The Government engaging in the property market by introducing more new public housing off 22,000 units, increased from previous 16,000 units is a good measure to cool off the rising prices of properties. But what type of public housing? Designed and Built which price tag is as close to the private condominiums? Or is it going to be really affordable to Singaporeans? Furtherm

Answer 57

Govt plans to increase space for commuters for the transportation problem. After solving the problem of creating more space, then will invite more foreigners to flow in and fill up the empty spaces. Then blame Singaporeans for not giving birth and increase the foreign intake. Pure breed Singaporeans will suffer more, we are more divided then ever. Will these ever stop? So long to our Pledge. "One People, One Nation, One Singapore" should be "Many People, Many Nation, One Singapore" Its time to change that so PLS Pure breeds Pls show your stand in the coming GE.

Answer 58

More foreigners means more competitions. So, Sinaporearn spends more hours in their work and stress level increases everyday. More stress more time in work, how to have more baby? Low birth rate, Gov takes in more foreigners to create even more competitions and cause even lower birth rate. Do you think this is against our own policy to increase birth rate? Even PM Lee mentioned that last year our birth rate had declined after increasing the baby bonus.



If this don't stop, Singaporean will be replaced by foreigners very soon.

Answer 59

What national day rally? Have not been listening to one for ages. You kind of anticipate or could predict what the PM going to say in response to concerns on immigration and job especially. It's the same answer said in a different way.

Answer 60

What more can I say, I love Mr Lee Hsien Long's

Answer 61

He hogged every TV channel!! Fine him $130!!! Alright, that aside, I have not been hearing our Prime Minister's speech for years. Its like propaganda anyway. Which head of state will tell bad things to their people? Comical Ali of Iraq is a classic. Seriously I Only followed yahoo and CNA follow up later which gives different view, more interesting. End of the day, this country is just too crowded. Kids too stress and passed their homework stress to parents. Children lost their child thinking already. Bad for future generation, unless one only looks at economic value to accertain the success of one country. Look at Kuwait. Rich country and people. When war comes, everyone runs. Better still, volunteers to fight along US to get back their country comes up to only a handful. Hopefully those handful included adopted.

Answer 62

What? No NSS (new singapore shares) or other carrots. Only lot of sticks like more foreign coming in, blaming singaporeans for lack of children given the expensive standard of living here. Guess the government be seeing a "Great" result in the next election.

Answer 63

I thought it was a generally a good rally. The continuing education for NS man is really something that should have been done 20 yrs ago. we guys are really losing out to our female counterparts. by the time we finish Ns our female classmates(poly or JCs) have finished their degrees and already started their careers. we guys cant even remember what we studied in poly so how o find a job?



but they did not address housing policy for singles. why must i a tax payer not allowed to buy a house? the government is using my money to give tax relief to married ppl. baby bonus from my tax. housing grant from my tax. maternity leave from my tax. but i cannot buy a house. hopefully they bring down the age limit from 35 to 30 or 32. next year.

Answer 64

In my own point of view, I am never 100% supportive of PAP, but I always believe we have to see things in a whole, and not just the side of it. I got to agree that our government will and have to do more to allow us, Singaporeans more welfare, as the current urban stress is already hitting us hard and with more foreign talents gathering in, it adds more to our pressure and is suffocating us badly. However, I always believe and will always welcome them into our country, aren't we all from other countries in the past as well? Lets not discriminate anyone in this, look at the good points rather than being covered in the bad ones.

The thing that we have to be proud of is still the way our country is governed. I agree everyone's unhappy with that amount of money our government is paid, look elsewhere, would you be happy to have a group of government panel fighting inside and making the country fall from grace? One got to know that governing one country is never the same as operating one company organization, which is already hard enough to handle.

Just ask yourself one question, would you trust someone who have brought a country to fame or someone who doesn't even know a thing about governing a whole country, and yes, "A COUNTRY".



Live your life to your fullest, rather then complaining, appreciate what we are having now, and yes, I'm a Pure Singaporean. Be proud of your country.

Answer 65

These people, as most Singaporeans would agree, are not 'FTs' like what our government always claimed (???). We have better quality Singaporeans here, far better than these so-called 'FTs'. Our government should put an immediate stop importing these 'FTs' (??? or cheap labours???) so as to release more jobs to the needy Singaporeans. We want more jobs to be taken up by the local Singaporeans and hear more friendly Singaporean accent wherever we are! (Bus and MRT stations, Shopping Malls and Hawkers' Centres etc.)

Answer 66

It's a great Victory speech . Every Singporean loves a winner.The mood is very positive.

Compared to last year's where every word had to be measured, the mood was one of skepticism and doubts.

Let's move on with more innovations for success from education to develop very child to his or her full potential, to import the best through immigration, from economics to

more creative developments to make a bigger, better Singapore.

I see a phoenix rising out of the ashes. Keep flying upwards..

Answer 67

My eldest son doesn't serve NS cos he signed on as a Police Officer and deemed to have served NS after 5 years in the Service. As such, he lost out on the $9000 incentive to be given to NSmen while he should be recognised more than them as he is contributing more in terms of years of service. He will be in the force till he is 50 unless he resigns. Not fair. By what yardstick do you measure sacrifices and contributions?

Answer 68

I partially agree with Singaporeans. But alas, if the country has to meet the target o growth, no other go. Singaporeans now feel that certain jobs are below their dignity and hence the problem. The same is happening all over the world including India and I am really at a loss how the future is going to be.

Answer 69

i think the Goverment should hire more Quality FT to replace the ministers and the Civil servants. They will be more than happy if pay them 1/3 of our minister's salary. By doing this we can save cost. Than will see whether all those affect will still be loyal and vote for you. People will not understand if they are not affected like me. Look around you, those FT are not FT. Our degrees, Diploma and other qualifications are useless compared to those qualifications that previously not recognized. Upgrading are useless, employer will always chose to hire FT.

Answer 70

I thought it was good especially the part about education for all & the chance to give all students another chance even if they did not do well in their psle, O levels or A levels and that 1 examination does not determine the life of a student. I also thought that it was a reassuring speech to alot of parents with children in school.

Answer 71

Thanks to PM Lee Hsien Loong for his National Day Rally speech. It was very captivating and interesting. Good speech of promises. Thumbs-Up!

Answer 72

It is right for PM to remind us that we ourselves are descendants of foreign talents. Had our forefathers not choose to leave China, Malaysia, India, etc, today, we are going to be no different from these foreign talents. We should not deny them of fighting for a better life for future generations, like our forefathers had done. It is true that we are too comfortable in the present environment and we had lost the resilience of these foreign talents. We are just too lucky that we do not have to marry a husband who had to go overseas and be construction worker, nor marry a wife who had to be someone's maid. However, it is also comforting that government is aware of the employment issue associated with them. Hope they can implement plans to address to the unhappiness among Singaporeans.

Answer 73

Are you joking? Are we allowed to say our views? Hmmmm let me think.

Well I guess just one thing. The immigrants. Nobody speaks English anymore in that country. We once went back to Singapore for a visit. My husband and I encountered some problems at the airport and decided to ask one of the customer service staff at the airport. Guess what??? She didnt understand us and said she doesnt speak English and she worked for Singapore Airlines. We went to KFC and asked the girl at the counter for a plastic spoon and she didn't know what a spoon is.

As much as I love Singapore, the people that migrated there disgust me to my stomach. Most of them have no proper education. Singaporean who has good education background usually lost their jobs to uneducated and ignorant immigrants who knows nothing about the work scope because of cheap labour.

Answer 74

I don't really play attention on the details, as I know. it's going to be the same. I just don't understand why the audience are laughing most of the time, when the rally is not funny at all, infact, sort of boring. Singaporean, can you be real?

Answer 75

I really appreciate the thoughts and plan he put forward on MRT expansion as well as mitigation steps on rising property cost, specially HDB housing.

Growing concern of foreign talents among the local citizen and need of foreign talents / skilled workforce for future development is a challenge. By setting up new ministry to look into new immigrant would certainly help in many ways. Overall he has covered all burring issues comprehensively... although I am not Singaporean Citizen but I feel proud of being in Singapore. Overall Singapore government has got the leadership with vision, character and spirit of making it happen... YOG is a recent example. The message I take away from the speech is .... existing Singapore is baseline and there is a need to look forward and take it next level of benchmark....



"Never rest on your laurels...there are challenges and solutions as well"

Answer 76

Why he only look at the MRT route which is crowded? How about the LRT? The place I am staying have no MRT and the LRT is 15 mins walk away and because of the last election we have our bagging for very long bus stop, which only have 1 bus that comes in every 30 mins, that brings us only to the interchange at BPP (no MRT) and we see even now those rich man area like Bt. Timah and River Valley etc is going to have MRT...so sad :(

Answer 77

stop giving us indirect benefits like monies to be credited to education account / CPF medisave / CPF special accounts etc etc.. worst still, the payment is split over a 10yr period...



its a good figure to publish that the government is giving out hundred of millions to the citizens but ultimately the monies are still locked up in the government coffers that citizens cannot touch....whats the point...



i already have a degree, what can the monies that are credited to my education account be used for? to study for my masters? i believe the monies are hardly barely enough for even a module of a master's degree program. government put money in an account that i can't touch and use....signnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn.........................................



another example, let say that you are an employee that is earning $4k a mth. Your company declares that it is giving out 3mths bonus to you. WOW! hurray! i will be getting a bonus of 12k, BUT BUT BUT, hang on for a sec, your bonus is to be paid out over 10 yrs (12k /10 = 1.2k per yr ) over 4 quarters ($1.2k / 4 = $300) and in the form of shopping vouchers.



In order to use the shopping voucher, a minimum spend of $100 at the retail outlet is required. iam pretty sure everyone has gotten some of those useless shopping vouchers before....It claims to be worth $300 - $400 in value, but most of the time this vouchers comes with minimum spend of $100 to enjoy a 10% discount etc etc etc...



nice numbers to tell all my friends and relatives that iam getting 12k in bonus but when i open the can, it is just a bag of worms.... sign again......................................

Answer 78

I agreed with cocoon.

Well we just a stranger in our own country. The foreigners they come,they make money,they get PR,they buy house,aftter few years they sell the house ,make $$$$$$ then go back to their homeland and relax whole life.

We work,work work until age 70,pay house until 60, pay government until we die. After we die also have to pay for our ash.

Its really stupid,If this is china or india ,will that government allowed this to happen to their ppl ? Only in singapore this will happen. Becos you know why ???? Government wants $$$$$$ not your reason. Your problems and suffering is a waste for them,as they been listening to this daily so it doesn't make a differents. What ever they say ,we ppl shake our head ,so why they worry . Am i rite ?

Its our fate ,You want to voice back ??? Then prepare to get bankrupt . Your peace will be slowly taken away somehow.

So live with this my fellow singaporean,

And yahoo,pls dont waste our time for our comments.THIS WILL NEVER WORK.

Answer 79

It was a good speech. Many of the issues affecting Singaporeans were dealt with. Yesterday MND outlined the new curbs on property speculations. Speculations are also the work of many property agents. This must also be reined in.

Answer 80

Singapore needs foreign talents especially those with good ethics and values. I think the the new People and Talent Department need to have is a team to look into the "qualifications" of these "Talents". I have heard that there are "talents" who purchased their qualifications and tried to get S Passes, Employment Passes and/or Permenant Residences. I guess it is not difficult if no one is checking.

Answer 81

Firstly, i did not watch the speech but i read the news. The annual 'Pep' talk not making much impact on me these days.



Singaporeans r so stressed-out at every level except those up there in the top 5% salary range.

The malls r full, MRT is packed, carparks r full, roads are jammed. Will we even have space to breath in the future? Singaporean r leaving the country for holiday in droves, some even emigrate, have we come to the stage where we need to go overseas and spend out hard-earned money just for a breather?



How much 'productiveness' can you squeeze out of us? Most of us already work 40hrs a week, both spouse working, many hold 2 jobs to make ends meet. Why the desire to artificially boost the population? why can't we let it grow naturally? Are companies complaining they can't find enough employees? or do they just want cheaper workers? (casinos r one-off). I can understand the need to be cost effective and i fully welcome all immigrants who wish a better life in Singapore just like our ancestors. But seriously, are we that desperately short of man-power that we have to bring in foreign workers en-mass?



Look at how the foreign talents r pushing up housing prices edging our our newly-weds out of the market, look at the appaling living conditions of the exploited foregin workers. Don't rush these things if you can't manage it properly. Planning sucked and execution mediocre if u asked me. In recent years, we have seen escaped convicts, massive flooding, huge losses at Temasek n GIC, Charity scams!!! Are u guys sleeping on the job?!!! has anyone been held accountable at all? stop protecting their asses or loose your credibility.



I only have 1 thing to say to PM Lee, please 'feel' for your fellow citizens, don't just do things for the country, the country is ultimately made up of us tax paying citizens. Singapore Inc?... who gives a rat's ***? look down here, look at the people!!!....We are here to stay and grow, we will stand and fight, shoulder to shoulder with u and any immigrant who wishes to contribute, and we absolutely refuse to carry your bloated incompetant *** on our shoulders. Go play 'Civilisations' on the computer dun mess with our lives.



Stressed-out tax paying individual

Answer 82

Finally our good govt is addressing our issue of the big influx in foreigner.

In fact, when they first open the "flood gate". they should have thought of it and expands the public transportation & housing gradually with increase in population.

But at lest, govt has brightened up and will slow down influx plus expanding its public transportation.



Great work Mr Lee, but i guess most are wondering why no announcment of year end bonuses & the issue with BTO flats getting more expensive?

Answer 83

Every Year nearly all National Day message are still the same.. Hopefully what being said must be done for the better future & benefits for all singaporeans. Those better off sure benefits it also must show other ways to help those who can't make it, lesser fortunate ones. Make Singapore a better place to live , work & play. More good years for us all. Majullah Singapura...Cannon...

Answer 84

The government intends to make a non native Singaporeans Singapore. Very disappointed.

Answer 85

Who dares to share thoughts on PM Lee's Speech? Not afraid of going to jail?

Answer 86

I think the govt policies of immigration are well-intentioned and have our country's long-term interests in mind. However, it is badly handled, hence we see dissatisfaction on the ground.



We have a lot to learn from Japan in this respect, eg. how they use technology like robots to substitute certain tasks traditionally performed by humans, the creative ways in which they tackle labour shortage issues, instead of simply taking the easy route by letting in cheap labour from abroad.



I kinda like foreigners in our midst though, I like Singapore's cosmopolitan feel. Besides, we have a lot to learn from them too. I take pride in the fact that we are among the most open and cosmopolitan cities in Asia. Xenophobic attitudes from locals will certainly give Singapore a bad name.



It's a delicate situation.

Answer 87

I think the speech is all wayang talk. Since GE is coming around so the speech is written such that it will calm most of the NOISE from the general public regarding housing, education etc. But after GE, its back to increase of public transport cost, increase housing cost and so on But govt will give you a small rebate as a token for their reason to increase all the pricing to make you feel better for a short period.

Answer 88

how to share when we scare we talk no good den we got arrested!! seems like is there any point now talking or thinking which everything was fixed ? You people got eyes and brains to think , a pencil and a piece of paper and YOUR decision will make Singapore a better next 5 years and so on to come.

Answer 89

well, do you singaporeans think by complaining here will change your life? i don't think so at all. you will just have to suffer in silent or do something about it. everything comes with a price.



kind of weird when singapore is one of the best place in the world while its citizen is one of the most unhappy in the world.



i agree with the "not happy, then leave" concept. you can be easily replaced anyway.



what do the following have in common?

kidnap incident in The Philippines, what did the Hong Kong citizen do? citizen of Taiwan besiege the president office. how the Fall of the Berlin Wall occurs. the Tiananmen Square incident. just look around and there are more to name. when people unite and stand together against their unhappiness, things do change. but too bad, we are just too "ball less" as there are being "removed" by higher powers to be like the few examples.



looks like singaporeans are left with 2 choices, live with it or leave without it.

Answer 90

The PM is right to say that we must maintain the existing ethnic distribution in Singapore. It is this unique character of Singapore that makes me feel at home...



Although I am a Chinese by ethnic classification, was Chinese-educated in my early education, and have worked and stayed in various parts of China for the most recent 10 years, I never felt at home while in China.



Although I was a Malaysian citizen by birth and educated in Malaysia up to pre-university years, which meant that I never spent my childhood and formative years in Singapore, I don't feel at home anymore when I visit Malaysia now.



Although I am conversant in Malay, I never felt any emotional attachment with that language when I was growing up in Malaysia. Now, I feel proud that our PM can address in good Malay, and I feel good that I can comprehend his speech without translation.



Although I am not that successful in my career and in my life, I feel that my only right decision was to choose to become a Singapore citizen 20 years ago.



My best wishes to Singapore!

Answer 91

Good but he missed out welfare issues on the less fortunate (impaired/handicapped,gifted) Singaporean again.....The less fortunate still don't get better attention and to share the glory of Singapore's success and better wellfares wree not addressed to these people left behind the modern societies of high living costs...which is quite disappoointing every year I heard his speech.

Answer 92

They seemed to be overseeing me like they are the new government and ganged up and landed me doing lower value works with no work satisfaction and not to say any opportunity for advancement. Furthermore, these people seemed to be supported by management of their relevant sources.....They are not competent but think they are FT and jeopardise all prospective native Singaporeans.... Will these people one day become a threat to our government which I supported wholeheartedly?

Answer 93

The government has always thought that we singaporean are against foriegn workers and foriegn talents. The thing is no singapore is against them. I now have to define both of them. foreigner worker are worker from foriegn country that do jobs that no singaporean want to do, like mid night shift and contruction and cleaning. Foriegn talents are forienger that is the elites in their industries or area of expertise. I and many singaporean welcome those 2 since we know we cannot do without the former and also our conditions would improve due to the influences of the latter.

Answer 94

Life in singapore are tougher and harder for Singaporean who are PURELY born in this land and our government is not helping the Singaporean well enough...Pity to the low & middle income purely singaporean family, pity to purely singaporean elderly who needs to work and pay for their living till they die, pity to purely singaporean kids who have to stress up and being pressure in their studies especially those purely singaporean family with 3 to 5 kids and above, no better benefits for these family.There are alot of purely singaporean family gave birth to 5 to 10 kids so what does the government means that singaporean family does not produce enough babies?



Compare to the oldern days, our grandparent maybe lived in poor but they lived happily with their 10 children in their attap house, no $ but veggies & fruits are easily found in their backyard but compare to now, we live in concrete house but torture, stress and pressure with the taxes, cost of housing, daily expenses, cost of education, monthly bills, medical expenses and all cost in singapore are extremely high. What kind of better living is the government talking about where alot of $$$ involves?



Hiring talented and educated FW but how come they do not speak english..oo..I forgot government do not eat at Mcdonalds, KFC or work in a factory and normal offices etc...hhhmmmm...no wonder they do not know that the FW do not know how to speak English.



Even the most popular demand job (administrative, account, marketing & etc) by singaporean being occupy by the FW. A simple job such as class 3, 4 & 5 driver position are also occupy by FW. How can our talented singaporean work whereby majority of the companies are thinking of cheap labour and most company cannot efford to pay or do not want to hire educated, skills, experience Singaporeans who can produce good quality of work to the company.

Answer 95

Sorry i miss the Rally, but i dun think its help.

Problem solve in singapore:

Traffic control - control numbers of car COE went up follow by ERP then parking then public transport ( what the point encourage us to take public transport).



I'm planning to have a baby but money come 1st. I don't want my baby to suffer with me. Spare me a peanut will help alot.



sporean benefit from the 15% to 18% growth? Who? Me?



i Love this sentances from amex (houses are getting expensive, foods prices are getting higher, jobs are getting tougher as we have to compete with foreigners, transportation and PUB bills are higher and their pay checks are getting higher.) My plans for baby will take Years.



I love staying in singapore but singapore love us?



SINGAPORE PLEASE HELP THE POOR!!!!!! Put yourself into the shoe of the Poor not the RICH!!!!

Answer 96

as a foreigner holding a PR staus here, I can only said thank you to Singapore. We are treated like part of Singaporean by the country & this will never happen in other country. For this, I would say thank you again. I will stay here as long as Singapore still want my service. Singapore has given me a chance to help upgrade my family in my country. Again, thank you....for your kindness to us, PM Lee.

Answer 97

Good speech but have to see whether real actions are in-line with the implementation of the things that is in the NDR speech. Every year same all talk but little actions. ??????? When will the day of reckoning come???

Answer 98

Remember Our senior minister assurance that every sporean will have '2 bites of the cherry' concerning our purchase of HDB flats? At the rate our 'instant' citizens rolling in, my 2nd timer chance of buying a new HDB flat is practically nil.

Answer 99

Happy that they are finally addressing housing issues for young adult couples who wish to start a family.



But there should be a limit on foreign talent, at the moment, i feel like i am a minority in my own country. 8 out of 10 of my colleagues are foreigners



:(

Answer 100

She hit the nail on the top--Lincoln warned us we'd fall, not from forces devoid of yet issues interior of. individuals enable our "media" to be a gaggle of BS artists with their schedule somewhat of info. We enable our rules to be violated robotically because of fact we are instructed we are too "fortunate" and others have "much less" and we OWE it to them to enable them to be uncivilized with impunity. we are consistently criticized for issues that are actually not our issue. Imaginary wrongs are consistently whined approximately. previous, previous complaints are under no circumstances given a relax even while so previous no person alive can submit to in techniques while it grew to become right into a valid grievance. Why we experience we could desire to consistently "make an apology" to everyone for each little thing while we did not do something to them is a sturdy question. that's resulted in reducing ourselves to the backside easy denominator somewhat of elevating others to our point. How stupid is that?

Answer 101

A prince never lacks legitimate reasons to break his promise.

~Niccolo Machiavelli



It is useless to hold a person to anything he says while he is in love, drunk, or running for office.

~Shirley MacLaine



Politicians are the same all over. They promise to build bridges even when there are no rivers.

~Nikita Khrushchev



The man who promises everything is sure to fulfill nothing, and everyone who promises too much is in danger of using evil means in order to carry out his promises, and is already on the road to perdition.

~Carl Jung



For every promise, there is price to pay.

~Jim Rohn



The promises of yesterday are the taxes of today.

~William Lyon MacKenzie



When a man repeats a promise again and again, he means to fail you.

~Proverb



Vote for the man who promises least; he'll be the least disappointing.

~Bernard M. Baruch

Answer 102

Huge commission was earned by Lee’s leader of succeed invitation of foreign Investor (Extra Income, not included in the salary): 2% of the total amount of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) are and 1% Commission of the total FDI has been delegated to related minister of parliament. (References sources: FDI stock $264.1 billion :31 December 2009; International Monetary Fund Official data (IMF.org)

******************************************************************

Now, Please think that how much does Lee’s and all the Minister of Parliament earn (commission of FDI only not salary) at Year 2009 ?

FDI stock $264.1 billion

1) Minister Lee’s earn: 3% of the amount of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) = 7.923 billion US Dollar

2) All of the related minister earn: 2% of the amount of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) = 5.282 billion US Dollar

3) IF 5% of FDI $264.1 billion (US5.282 billion) give to Singaporean whom household income less than 4,000 / month – 300,000 Individual

4) Each Singaporean / Regular Singapore Permanent Resident is entitled for extra income of: S$17,606.667 annual

5) Do you think is this a serious CORRUPTION happened in Singapore?

6) Anti corruption agency (ACA), Singapore is dominated by Lee’s , do you think they would take action for investigation? ACA is only disclosed the minority case of corruption, not big amount involved senior minister and Lee’s. ALL Singapore, please think whether Anti corruption agency, Singapore perform at Integrity way?

Answer 103

Tomorrow Mr mah will say something about HDB rule,but they don,t really care about we singaporean who can,t afford to own a HDB. What the point of changing rule here and there but don,t look into the problem. They set rule but din,t understand the problem.

Answer 104

I got alot of foreign worker in my company. Initial most of them were from China but later the trend swift to India after most of the China had gone. Maybe India are cheaper now. From my experience i learn from them ( china ) they came here to work for few years, and yet there can buy big house( 3 story ) in one payment back in their home town. From my India friends he said he just need to work for few year and can relax in their home town, don't need to work so hard liao. I am so admire them and envy for so short time they can fullfill their dream, but for me i still don't know when i can finish paying my house loan, don't know can feed myself when i get old, don't know still got work for me when i get older. Got overtime i wack regards weedends or hoilday, my highest overtime record is 265 hour per month. i wack the overtime until no more overtime for me to wack, but then, i still cannot sustain my finance. Why ? i join the compay at the basic pay $1500 and after 10 years working i still cannot hit over 2k, can say anything ? NO, why ? because there are talented foreign and more cheaper than you. So, do you think i lazy ???? Note my level are higher then those i had memtion. sigh.....

Answer 105

i didn't really watch it.but i just wan to share something i overheard earlier this week spoken by a wise grandma whom i didn't know.this is what she say:

i pity all the young adults these days.no money buy flat.

10 years ago.25years old adult buy flat for 100k plus.

now 25 years old but flat from 300k-500k...how to buy.

everything up,pay no up.most of them 5% annual increment.inflation more then that...



this is a true encounter.i just want everyone to think.what driving our property prices up.it not those rich men who speculate,it those foreigners who is bringing up the demand.is the govt going to do something about this to protect the citizens?grant not everyone can get...get also no use...40k grant then property up 100k.time to up the grant or heavily subsides citizens?people please go read hdb website.what they say about building affordable flat for singaporeans.

Answer 106

you guys need to think more, its all a matter about being the best. Singaporeans like to blame others for their mistakes and inferiority such as " forgeign talent , hard to compete" thats why singapore are always 2nd best. This is why we need the goverenment to do things that will help us , and " control" us in that sense because we are only 2nd class citizens. If we are to survive without the goverment help , Singapore will not even make it as much as the past. Recognise what the government has done for all of us and not focus on things like minor things like " distance fare " , " free speech " . Instead work on being the best in your field and then help to shape singapore into a better place. Governing a small country with no natural resources is no smal feat. The government has to make tough decisions all the time, and the benefits always outweight the " losses" . All of this is coming from an 18 year old , so really... singaporeans older than me, dont just blame the government for the wrongs but instead choose to think what you can do for your country instead of just sitting on your comfy sofa.

Answer 107

Is it worth it to celebrate in this same manner every year ? Time taken to practice, school kids involved, unions parade, bands parade, display of fireworks, then folks rush for tickets to see the parade, closure of roads on top of closures of roads for VIP summit, F1 racing.



One small island, squeezing so many events on to it. Like an apple being bored by worms, sooner or later something's got to give. Already precious land leased out to two casinos. We already have less open spaces to walk. Pathetic.



This land is my land... give it back to me.

Answer 108

it is about how the PAP wants to make more money so that it will be able to substain their high salary. it is about how the foreign talents from china, india bangladesh get into singapore so that they can reduce normal singaporean salary and at the same time, inflation is going higher and higher. it is all about giving advantage to the government while the people suffer in silent..

Answer 109

If my homeland has such a far-sighted, dedicated and fair government leading the country, I can safely tell you that I won't be here in S'pore 20+ years ago, till today...... Some of the S'porean just being unrealistic and shortsighted in their expectation of their government... Wait till you get one, then you will know how lucky you were before....



No government is ever ideal, just like there is never a ideal employer in every work place. However, if there's more pro than cons, and everyone have a safe roof over their head, safety in the society, a job with decent income to bring up the family, that're good enough... anything extra that you get are just a bonus in life... see it that way and you will appreciate more what you already have, but didn't realize/appreciate it...



I am just another immigrant ( SPR ), like those mentioned by your PM in his speech earlier,...but an appreciative one.. What about you ??

Answer 110

I am particulary touched when the PM announced that two buildings will be named after Dr Goh Keng Swee, the architect of our nation. One area that could have been covered is the Aging Population.

Answer 111

It's a one way Communication... One talk and all listen. He say that he understand our saturation, but i wonder if he really know our saturation... we need someone that faces competitors from the outside world to understand what it feels like to be over taken by them.

Answer 112

Next time, please do not put this sort of silly program over all channels. Just put on one channel so that those poor souls without cable TV or MIO TV won't have to switch off the TV and sleep early! I would rather watch Tom & Jerry on cartoon network, then watch people talk crap!

Answer 113

Unemployed Singaporeans and their future not mentioned. To upgrade and land a job, or retire, etc. Job creation for this group of people never mentioned. This is helpful for those who are currently unemployed or those who will be unemployed when they are >40.

Answer 114

A speech well delivered.



I feel PM Lee addressed most of Singaporeans immediate concerns. Congested transportation network, influx of immigrants, job security, housing security and education. I'm glad PM Lee and his cabinet are hearing us, voices of Singaporeans.



Many punchlines and anecdotes are shown. I feel proud knowing SembCorp & Keppel are the Singaporean Companies which built the oil rig to fix the Gulf leak problem. PM Lee also highlighted for us to be innovative, how to convert the humble soya bean stall and make it big. Over the past years, there have been many success stories. I like the story on the SBS Bus captain as well. I could see that she's proud to be Singaporean and she's well liked on bus route 109.



Despite being a year of general election, PM Lee stuck to his value and not dish out freebies and rebates. If he do that, there will surely be talk that oh, GE coming, so that's why they giving out rebates etc. I'm glad he didnt give any.



Overall, I always like hearing to our PM talking to his citizens and rally our morale each year. I hope to see PM Lee talk more. Preferably, such rallies can be increased. No reference was made to our MM Lee as well. Personally I feel PM Lee is trying to establish his own style and I feel its refreshing. I really like our PM and our government.



Well done PM Lee for leading Singapore to where we are today. I'm proud to be a Singaporean and am happy to serve my dues thru National Service.



Happy Birthday Singapore

Tan Qing Hui

Answer 115

I am thankful I'm a Singaporean. I'm thankful we have good, wise and dedicated leaders to lead Singapore. Thank you PM Lee for your leadership! Your message encouraged my heart.

Answer 116

No need to complain so much la.



This quote i heard from i'net ma help u:



2 fundamentals of cool Life:



Live, Like u r the king.....Or



Walk Like U don care, Whoever is the king...

Answer 117

For singaporeans who do not welcome foreigners, thinks again their contributions to singapore, they helps in building HDB, MRT which you are all enjoys.... Singapore buy goods from other countries, sell goods to other countries.... Singapore benefits a lot from foreigners.

Sadly government need to get the job done but they cannot rely on singaporeans alone with limited manpower...... but i think all singaporeans be it citizen or government need to know what is ENOUGH..... Want to many things, got too many jobs, then no time, no energy to produce baby...... because exhausted :)

Answer 118

What about citizens who have already completed 2-2.5 years of NS and reservist training cycles? Are they entitled to the $9K?



Ric

Answer 119

why do government keep on praising foreigners. They come here for job for money.

Too many foreigners in our country. The government open up almost all the industries.

Who benefit, employer and who suffer, the singapoeans whose wages remain low and struggle to survive.

Answer 120

i heard that there is this through train programme that allows normal academics students to go into polytechnics.

actually, my thought is this is a very smart move.

i believe government is seeing many talents from polytechnic students as well and many people are choosing polytechnics rather than Junior colleges (JCs)



1. helps motivate normal academic students; at the same time

2. discourage express stream students to go to Junior colleges (JCs)



overall, government is trying to push each stream to a greater level, good move. :)

Answer 121

The speech is all about how singapore and singaporeans needs FTs to grow..



It should be the OTHER way round !!



FTs need singapore and singaporeans to grow instead

Answer 122

Around 30 years ago, I answered affirmatively, "Definitely Yes, I will defend my country at all costs." Today to the same question, "Maybe, (thinking very hard) think twice."



Question - Am I loosing my identity?

Answer 123

II have never been in favor of school children rotting in the sun for hours for the entertainment of politicians and general public.

Answer 124

I believe more foreigners will come to take jobs that were created for S'poreans. Govt creat jobs for foreigners. S'poreans come first it's bullshit. For YOG,Govt spent 300mil but for NS men 9000SGD but will be paid "tranches" . Its like throwing peanuts to monkeys. Are all our children monkeys?. Our children serve NS to "take care" of the rich in SIngapore . Our childern "die" even during NS duty for whom/for what>>>. I too served NS and was pround of it,cos we were protecting S'poreans. But now who are we protecting the rich and the "nfamous!!! Rich foreigners came and enjoy our 'security" and happy. and we s'poreans get 9000SGD in tranches sampai "buah jatoh".



Signing off "Rich" Singaporean

Answer 125

I guess HDB only used the average selling price nowadays, minus away all the grant they will give estimate $40000 and minus off the average COV amount average $30000 and you get the price of the BTO flats. So what subsidy are they talking about.

Answer 126

Does he know that most of the bosses here in singapore are foreign worker? The foreign worker here only think about their own pockets. How well does he knows about how the companies in singapore are really making us their first priorities?

Answer 127

Will the resale flat prices come down as we have a lot more rich PR buying resale flats putting a lot of pressure on resale prices.

Answer 128

I really wish the gov will invest more on their own people (singaporean). Help those that really need helps. lower down the Standard of living for singaporean and increase the Standard of living for foreigners. that is what dubai is doing.

Answer 129

My fellow Singaporean brothers and sisters, uncles and aunties... believe me, we all are screwed big time. I failed to see what these foreigners can make us native Singaporeans live in our own country with great comfort.

Answer 130

Fire Fighting.



Folks, think deeper and further, look back at history of mankind.

Rise and fall of any overwhelmingly dominating empires and dynasties.

We might look good now, superfically on the outside.

Where are we heading to from now.

If you dont think harder, at least look, listen, feel.........before it is too late!

Answer 131

I am afraid that his speech only teaches the problem of what we encountered in Singapore.

But, his speech will not tackle the problem. So, the government should stop the

program of letting new immigrants for the time being.

Answer 132

Magnificent speech but its not really helping poor singaporean

Answer 133

Vieux vin dans une nouvelle bouteille

Answer 134

hahaha.. after seeing 2 fellows in our online community being invited back for coffee for their postings (if u include the chinese reporter, it's 3), who else dare to say anything critical anymore?



let those sycophants, lackeys, toadies, bootlickers, puppets gather here n have a field day ba.. :)

Answer 135

Awesome speech. PM Lee is getting better and better in terms of experiences, charisma and sense of humour. He has delievered as our PM. He deserved my respect. Good work, our dear PM. Keep it up

Answer 136

Got so many things to say but one wrong word or sentence and I will kena nab so better keep it for the coffee-shop talk.

Answer 137

First feel good effect la, nothing new, next sounds like a history and political lessons.

Answer 138

Expectedly, we are being told again to open our hearts to the foreigners.



What they will never understand is that the attitiude of some of these so-called f.t needs to improve !!

Will you welcome anybody who go into your house, called you a bunch of fools and boost how big their home is instead of yours ? No Way !!



Why not lecture them instead ??

Answer 139

Though the English version was long, it was well delivered and spoken. Though I was at home viewing it from my TV set, I could connect with him and the audience, especially with the humors and punch lines that our PM Lee shared. As usual, he sounded very sincere in his plans to help further develop and improve Singapore, especially in overseeing and addressing the concerns of his fellow Singaporeans. I am particulary touched when he spoke about making plans to ensure that where education is concerned, more will be looked into to include everyone in the system, especially the less- abled in their studies so that in the long run these group of children can ultimately make their mark in their lives.

PM Lee, to you I give my full salute and may God continue to give you and your fellow mates the wisdom to govern our country to be the best we can be.

Answer 140

The freak floods is a sign of the coming karma...



We are living in a 末法时代... demons everywhere...

Answer 141

No matter what the PM says and what our feelings are, do not give up on singapore. We are Singaporeans first and foremost. It really saddens me to hear people throw up their hands and say," might as well be PR as foreigners are treated better." Singaporeans need to stand up and claim back our country by impressing the govt that we as a people do have the right skills and attitudes to take the country into the next crucial phase. The global economy is crumbling around us as we speak and opening up the country to foreign talents does have its merits in keeping Singapore afloat. Perhaps we view things only in the present but the future holds a different picture. While nobody really knows what the future holds (and neither does the govt), the best that the govt can do is to ensure the economic survivial of singapore. One day all these 'madness' may make sense to the rest of us.



What I am afraid is the loss of our cultural identity with too many foreigners coming into our country without the proper cultural education. I can't go into the US without learning english and lessons in American thought, language and history.. and I was just going there to study. But these measures ensure that the delicate cultural balance is not affected. What many singaporeans are facing is cultural displacements as foreigners insists on speaking their own language and forming sub cultures within our borders. Just wondering who is assimilating who and what? For singapore to progress acceptance and integration is important but not from the Singaporeans' end. If I should one day decide to be American, I will have to speak with an american accent, learn American history and learn to be proud of it. However, not so with our immigrants. Even as a student and a work intern in America, I had to undergo drama and speech lessons to change my accent so that I sound American. The PRCs still insists on speaking their brand of Chinese and majority arrongantly refuse to speak english. thankfully, I am bi-lingual but what about those people who don't speak Chinese like our Malay and Indian brothers and sisters?



To the govt, just one word - Reaganomics. Reagan deregulated some federal controls and gave them over to the commercial leaders of US. Many applauded his "corporatisation (commercialisation) of america" which served the country well and many remember the actor-turned president fondly. The country flourished then but the ills did not surface until serveral presidents later and now the country is in a deplorable mess. Singapore Inc has certainly served the people well for Singapore is one of the richest and most developed country in ASEAN right after Japan, not to mention highly respected.



Unlike other coutnries that have opted for external economic expansion [imperialism] (e.g.Japan), we have opted to lure them here to our country and grow them like cultures in a laboratory. Hmmm, who knows our govt may have a winning formula here? We certainly don't have the resources to expand externally, but we can conquer via influence and economic evangelism. When these people return to their countries hopefully, they will remember their days in Singapore and stick out a economic helping hand to us should they one day become important political and economic figures in the global scene. But HOPE is the operative word. Sometimes, I wonder if our neighbours will help us the way we are currently helping them economically should one day we turn to them for assistance for our citiozens. For now, we can only hope for the best.



However, we need to address the issue of overcrowding. In the colder climates, there is a syndrome that happens every winter - cabin fever. As the weather becomes colder, people become trapped indoors and before you know it, they become frustrated due to cramped existence. Tempers flares and quarrels increase. We are suffereing from our brand of cabin fever here which is exacerbated by our weather. Immigrant growth has been exponential but our infrastructure such as transportation have not really kept up. Increasing prices is not going to curtail the demand -- altho that is one of the basic principles that we all learn in A level economics -- as public transportation is a basic need in a crowded city like Singapore. I now have to wake up two hours early to catch a bus and train in order to get to work on time, and I have to leave home and office two hours ahead of time if I don't want to be late for an appointment. When I tell my foreign friends this, they think I am commuting to work in another city. No there are no jams, I tell them, it is just that our transportation system is slow and sometimes when the bus gets to my place, its is already crowded and I have to wait for the next bus.

Answer 142

Its only safe to say what they like to hear....besides nothing we say can change anything.



And about the rally speech.....can't remember what it was abt.

Answer 143

Yes, 50 yrs from now, nobody knows what we (Singapore) would be like as we prepare for the challenges ahead...May all (Singapore) have many years of prosperity!

祝: 风调雨顺, 国泰民安!

Answer 144

100 points. Yes, it's one of the best National Day Rally speech in years.

It's content is well balance. Contain many issues that is of real concern to not just the Singaporean but also new immigrants.

I am most surprise that PM Lee would bring up a slide on the MRT loading study as one of the topic. In many countries, this would deem not an important issue to deserve government attention, let alone in a National Day Speech.

Perhaps, many citizens of bigger countries may felt that Singapore Government can accomplish such an excellent report card is due to the fact of Singapore being "small".

I choose to defer.

PM Lee bring up the Singapore Spirit that was dream and driven by our fore-fathers. And I can truly support it.Everything that we enjoy today is not given freely but it was through hard work and "never-say-die" attitude from our fore-fathers.

Even though Singapore is a small country, but every country, be it BIG or small are filled with real fresh and blood human being. Human beings that is filled with different background, culture, language and religion. It is this differences that makes it more difficult to govern this country. It is this differences that makes it hard to satisfy everyone need.

Bravo to the Singapore government for promoting Peace, Harmony and Respect for each other.

It is this Racial Harmony that has help Singapore to Progress as a Nation!

Bravo to the Singapore government for building a STRONG ARM FORCES that brings about PEACE and STABILITY, so that INVESTORS dare to come and invest and thus provides jobs for Singaporean.

Bravo to the Singapore government for setting up a "complicated" education that can allow any Singaporean who want to be well educated to have the necessary support and equal chance to succeed. No matter you are a slow starter or a fast learner, there is a place for you.

Bravo to the Singapore government for encouraging our next generation to be more involved in Social Responsibility. This will ensure that our aged population will not be neglected.

My sincere thanks to PM Lee for bringing up many information in his National Day Rally speech which are of great interest to the nation and not just so but those information such as building of the platform for Oil Spill Salvage in USA.

My wife and I sat through the Chinese and English speech, even when we have to send our son back to his army camp, we continue to listen to PM Lee speech via 93.8FM.

It was the most enjoyable few hours and most enriching moments to note that we have a government who cares for the people and in return receives the support from the people in return.

Congratulations again to Singapore's 45th birthday, to the government and to all Singaporean and the New Citizens and Foreign workforce as each has done his/her part to bring Singapore to what she is today!

Steve Chia

Answer 145

WHO CREATED ALL THESE PROBLEMS OF MASS INFLUX OF FT’S, HIGHER COST OF LIVING, RECRUITING AND OPENING DOORS FOR FT’S WHO IN TURN WILL RECRUIT THEIR OWN COUNTRYMEN AND JOBS WILL BE SCARCED AND LIMITED AMONG THE SINKAPOREANS TO FEND FOR THEMSELVES? WHO CAUSED THE STEEP RISE IN PROPERTY MARKETS? WHO CAUSED THE ACCELERATING AND INTENSE PRESSURE IN TEACHERS? WHO CAUSED THE LOCAL CHILDREN TO COMPETE FOR PLACEMENT IN PRIMARY SCHOOL? WHO CAUSED MANY MIDDLE AGED AND RETRENCH LOCAL TO REMAIN UNEMPLOYED FOR SUCH A LONG TIME BUT YET THE IMMIGRATION OF FT’S REMAINED UNCHECKED AND THE PROBLEM LEADS TO COMPLAINTS FROM LOCAL SINKAPOREAN AND ONLY THEN SOLUTION HAVE JUST BEGUN IN ORDER TO APPEASE THE LOCAL AS GE IS DRAWING NEAR? WHO WILL ATTRACT MORE THAN 100K OF FT’S WHEN THE ECONOMY JUST STARTED TO REBOUND BUT THE FUTURE OF LOCALS STILL REMAIN BLEAKS? WHO WILL INCREASE THE RETIREMENT AGE AND ABOLISH RETIREMENT AGE WHEN EMPLOYERS WANT CHEAP, BETTER, FASTER WORKERS JUST LIKE THE FT’S WHO ARE YOUNGER, MORE EDUCATED, WORKING EXPERIENCE FROM THEIR OWN COUNTRY, CAN WORK LONGER AND ALTHOUGH EARN LESSER CAN EARN DOUBLE, TRIPLE,******* THAN IN THEIR COUNTRY? WHO CREATED ALL THIS MESS AND TRY TO MAKE AMEND SO THAT MORE VOTES CAN BE ATTAINED AND MORE SUPPORT FROM THE LOCALS CAN BE ACHIEVED? WHO CAUSED THE STIFF COMPETITION IN JOBS, SPACE CONSTRAINTS, OVERCROWDED PLACES AND MRT, ONLY TO INCREASE THE DECLINING BIRTH RATE? IN TIMES OF RECESSION, WHO WERE MOSTLY AFFECTED IF NOT THE LOCALS! IN TIMES OF PEAK ECONOMY WHO WILL REAP THE BENEFITS THE MOST IF NOT THE FT’S. SO, TO SPEAK WHY ALL THIS BULLSHIT AFTER SO MANY YEARS OF TORMENTING, TORTURING AND SUFFERING PERIODS THAT MOST HAVE ENDURED, ESPECIALLY THE POOR, MIDDLE-INCOME, UNEDUCATED, MAYBE YOUNG AND NEW GRADUATES, INEXPERIENCE LOCALS SEEKING JOBS, THOSE WHO TOIL AND SWEAT IN NS AND RESERVIST AN EVEN FOR PEOPLE LIKE ME WHO ALWAYS KEEP VOTING FOR PAP AND REFUSE TO STOP BELIEVING IN PAP. HOWEVER, THIS TIME ROUND IT IS TOO MUCH FOR ME TO HANDLE AND FROM NOW ONWARDS, IT IS A BIG ‘NO’ TO PAP. I SWEAR NEVER TO VOTE FOR PAP EVER AGAIN!

Answer 146

More Good Years Ahead.

Answer 147

OMG!!!......Think I'm getting another round of pay cut to retain my job against the FT.

Answer 148

This is my view regarding questioning foreigners,,,for additional, mostly of the foreigners have good intentions in your own country...many instances that foreigners do helped and do care to your citizens..I think in any country, are in the same situation..In life,there are give and take..We are all human...Bless us all

Answer 149

What to expect! Already spend so much in the stupid YOG. Now it is time to suck for all people.

Answer 150

I was hoping there will be something to release me abit from this Rat Race but there were none. guess I have to keep running, pants! pants!)

Answer 151

As far as I am concerned, just another speech....blah, blah, blah. I going back to sleep.

Answer 152

Didn't touch on early childhood education?? Disappointed ...

Answer 153

Definitely a reassuring speech from the PM but please slow down the foreign immigration influx.

Answer 154

I'm so scared to give my frank views....might end up in jail....lol.....

Positively, its encouraging...but there too are issues that need to be address, he missed out.

Answer 155

not tt bad, just that hope for more benefits for singaporeans. anw for those people who says no money about these and that. SAVE MONEY LAH! dnt go clubbing, dnt go smokin and dnt go gamble ur money off. I sure you will hav more money than wat you hav currently now!

Answer 156

*look around nervously*

u guys sure here safe to voice out?

Answer 157

Politics & politicians... itz the same everywhere...

Answer 158

Its just another cool story...

bluff chewren de...

Answer 159

aniway its just a speech...

Answer 160

NO HELP FOR POOR SINGAPOREAN

Answer 161

big bonus this yr?? how big? last yr zero bonus...

Answer 162

my thoughts is very simple.. jus accept wat it said.. or can we not accept n they change for us??

Answer 163

nothing interesting

Answer 164

@ jingji on September 3, 2010 at 9:10 am

新加坡政府和人民过去做了很多好事,当隣国發生大災害時, 有出錢有出力, 觧救他们的困境,

但新加坡政府却冷血的对待人民，不顾人民死活！尽量挤压，就像挤压牙膏一样

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朋友,你説的一奌都沒錯,新加坡政府和人民过去做了很多好事,当隣国發生大災害時, 有出錢有出力, 觧救他们的困境, 就是这样,我们的人民,才福星高照,个个有好東西吃,好衣服穿,好屋子住, 同時,还有很多人上升到 5C的富貴圏当貴傧,也許他们做了很多对人類国家有貢献的好事,才会得到这样的好报的! 最近,每个人欢天喜地, 庆祝国家生日,举辦運动会YOG和各国朋友同欢共庆,真是人生一大喜事. 这也是上天给们的恩賜,我们应説多謝. 但是只有妳一个人被漏掉,同时被人家当成一支牙膏一样挤压掉, 对不起,請不用当心一支牙膏才三塊錢,他们不还妳,我可替他们付三塊錢給妳, 請不用悲伤, 同時在此劝妳, 我们国家和人民幫助他国是一件好事,妳要高兴,那妳以後做事会很順利,不会像現在這样煩恼啦 !