Why Singaporeans are Unhappy with the Government

I am increasingly filled with chagrin at the inadequacies of the government. I really am. True enough, Singapore has come a long way from being a small fishing village to what it is now, thanks to the Collective efforts of all segments of society. Not just the government. 

Here's an open letter to you, the ones leading Singapore. We all know something is wrong with our Singapore. I don't feel at home anymore. Singapore used to be an Utopia for me, for us, Singaporeans. 

We used to be able to do many things essential for a quality life. We had time to cherish our families & friends, while earning a decent living. Of course, things were cheaper back then. 

I miss the good old times where we had the space and national identity as Singaporeans. Singapore was for Singaporeans back then, and we easily identified each other. Be it Chinese, Malay, Indian or Eurasian, we spoke in one voice. 

We did not meddle in politics as we knew we were in good hands. All were taken care of. We just had to feed our families and contribute to Singapore's growth. But look at where we are now. What happened?

Citizens are increasingly unhappy with how things are run. May I remind you that this is a country, not a business? What for attain all the awards and recognition, when citizens suffer? 

We only want to exist comfortably, knowing that the people we have put in charge are really sincere in helping us. You must be reminded of your place, dear leaders. We chose you to make our lives better, not to talk down to us. 

I get this sense that you think you are bigger than us. Touch your heart and ask yourself this, how does one, with all the luxuries in the world, know how it is to struggle? Do you know how uncomfortable it can get, going to work in our 'world class' transportation system everyday? Do you commute via public transportation yourself?

I am a 21 year old, who have just given up 2 years of my life serving my country. My dreams and aspirations are pushed back due to this, and to add salt to the wound, foreigners get free rides in our education system. I don't have rich parents, material possessions or a reputable standing. This is the case for many Singaporeans, if you don't already know.

Do you have the slightest clue how difficult it is now to exist here? You say go study. I can study. In fact, all of us can. But let me ask you this. Who feeds our family in the time we are studying? Who pays for it? Do you ask yourself this? When can we start our career and raise our own family? 

We all have a responsibility to feed our families. But hey, its not too big of a problem to you I guess. It ain't your problem anyways right? The sole purpose we put you where you are is to alleviate our plight. 

You jack up COE to encourage the use of public transport. We all know our public transport system cant handle the influx of passengers, judging from the sheer number of breakdowns recently. Breakdowns have become so rampant that bridging services had to come to light. 

It is interesting to note that the ERP gantries never break down. What message are you getting across here? Money is everything? Please rethink and do some soul-searching dear government. I am exasperated at the state of things in Singapore.

I duly note that not all you do is wrong. We understand the importance of a strong economy. I thank you for making Singapore a distinguished City. But we need to find the balance here. I believe the phrase 'Eat all foods in moderation' resonates my feelings well.

All is well you say. It aint. I dare you to put yourself in our shoes. Give up your luxuries and live like the average Singaporean. Only then will you understand how it is to struggle. 

Being a Minister is not a just job; It is a calling to serve people. You can't be attracted by the money to serve. This is the real service to the nation. Take into account what we, Singaporean Sons have sacrificed for Singapore. 

I am particularly unhappy at what MP Josephine Teo actually said recently. Did you actually think about how insensitive you are to Ns men?