I posted this earlier on a friends timeline in response to him saying that the young have forgotten how much LKY matters, and a lalaland revisionist claiming that Singapore already was a 'second world' economy left with a 'working model' by the British. And the usual BS that it was Albert Winsemius responsible for Singapore's success :
"One needs to remember that Singapore was never meant to be independent and never operated as an independent state prior to 1965. The 'working model' the British left us with was an entrepôt port with a huge hinterland. Independence cut us off from the hinterland. That 'working model' was thus destroyed. Albert Winsemius, our economic adviser at independence, said that we were a 'poor little market in a dark corner of asia'
It took great leadership of a great team to put not only Mr. Winsemius's plan into reality, but also rally a people who were never a nation. In 1965, the various races identified much much more with their countries of origin than with their new country.
At independence, many countries were much more likely to succeed. We had our port for sure, but no longer our hinterland. Every other country in SE Asia had bucket loads of natural resources. The Philippines had far an away not only the most literate population, but an English speaking one.
Where are they now?
Where are we now?
Is there anymore to be said?
No.
But we have to say it again and again, lest we forget. And the young already have."
Also something harsh but true: another bunch likes to say that what was important were the Singaporean people, not the leaders.
I say BS
Our people were not so different from the Malaysians for example.
What differentiated us was exceptional leadership.
Calvin Cheng
*Article first appeared on https://www.facebook.com/calvinchengnmp/posts/882334945149916