Sunday, August 31, 2008
Since PM Lee Hsien Loong dished out attractive carrots to couples as a measure to boost the birth rate (which has been on a sharp decline), debates have been going on.
The 3 part series on Channel News Asia "Maybe a Baby?" was held just this week. Hosted by The Flying Dutchman, this forum is a platform where women and men, single and married from all walks of life air their views pertaining to the Baby issue. Issues surfaced, such as women are too career minded nowadays, and see no need in finding a partner. One night-stand suits fine, in other words. No time is another factor.
Then comes the men, who claims that Singaporean women are too focused on the 5 Cs when it comes to marriage, adding that they feel scrutinized on the first date already. The men thinks that women probably have a "checklist" to measure a guy's worth - and they don't like it. However, when asked what age would they get their life partner, most replied that the ideal age would be of a similar age, debunking the saying that men in the 30's primarily goes for women in the 20's.
So, what more has to be done to increase the birth rates?
Parents argued that they want paternal leave as well. Then Straits Times came up with a survey of men across the globe, even when given paternal leave, chooses not to use it. A simple reason is that men's earning power are generally higher than that of a women's.
Today, in the Sunday Times, Ignatious Low wrote about educating the next generation about love and sex at a younger age. His ideology is to inculcate pro-baby values and ideologies in them. If not, by the time they enter adulthood, their pre-conceived notion will be difficult to change. Well, true. Isn't that already done with all the Sex Talks and a fixed lesson a week to address issues like relationships and sex? I remember attending these kind of lessons and talks since primary school. Polytchnics now also have a module on Relationships, which saw the most number of student enrolling. When interviewed about the popularity of the course, the main reason is that the module is easy to score. But the students are attending the classes, aren't they?
Another point he brought up was to make hostel compulsory for all university students. It'll be fun, of course. But the next problem brought up by families would be the money issue. Is the government going to fund those who needs financial aids? And talk about democracy when one can't even have a choice of staying in hostels. Some people just prefer flying solo!
On the other hand, i do agree with Mr.Low that probably all schools should be made bisexual. I've had many friends who graduated from an all girls school, and after being thrown into Uni life, they just aren't used to the mere presence of the oppsite sex!
I personally feel that on top of the talks given in schools, Asian parents should be more open-minded when coming to discussing these issues with their children. Parents, besides teachers, plays a crucial role in the development of the children's life - not solely education and providing them with materialistic fulfilment. So, besides educating the children, the Government should probably start courses for parents on "How to communicate with your child about Love and Sex". Labels: General Affairs
Surprise, surprise! And that's what US Republican Presidential candidate John McCain managed to do when the news of his Vice-President choice was revealed. There were speculations, as usual, to whom he would choose. But no one, literally, expected his choice turned out to be little-known Alaskan governor Mrs. Sarah Palin.
Formerly a beauty queen, this woman is the living proof of woman's capability - both at work and at home. Just 2 years ago, she kicked out a Republican governor in the primary and a Democrat governor in the generals. She's got a love for sports which date back to her school days, passion for serving the nation, and a brain, essentially. (P.S. Beauty queens are no longer bimbo(s)!)
Apparently, according to the reports, she has been a pain in the neck to the Republican establishment - just like McCain. She resigned from the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission due to a "lack of ethics", and exposed her party's chairman for corruption.
In short, this woman is not to be trifled with. Her opening speech was full of fire, though I would like to add that the Republican's speeches in general are less capable of inspiring people than the Democrats. Call it my personal opinion, though I am not a supporter of Obama's team.
A Gallup poll released on Friday showed that Mr. Barack Obama is leading with 49 per cent compared to Mr. John McCain, who only polled 41 per cent. This is the first significant lead so far. Did McCain help Obama to the lead by appointing Palin? It's far too early to tell. But what we do know is, these polls may change after the Republican's convention.
Obama currently has the support of Former first lady and former running mate Hillary Clinton, Former President and husband of Hillary Clinton, Bill Clinton (who is still held in high regard by the Americans), Senator Ted Kennedy and not to mention, his wife Michelle Obama, who have won many supporters for herself lately. Big names, inarguably.
Do watch out for the Republican Convention.
Labels: USA Politics
Saturday, August 30, 2008
The moment I stepped into my ex-Secondary school today, floods of memories – both happy and sad – filled my mind. The people have changed, the decorations on the student council boards were different, but somehow I felt warm inside. The mere sight of my old school compound was heartening.
Walking up the stairs I once used often that led to the school hall, I started reminiscing on the comical things we did in school, and how I was so nervous when I first did announcements. Then there are the nerve-wreaking morning duties during the national anthem, and the days when we worked hard for our exams. Gone are those happy days.
I wasn’t having high expectations that my teachers would still remember me. After all, they have hundreds of students graduating each batch! Boy, have they proven me wrong. When I greeted them, recognition showed on their faces as they addressed me cheerfully. I was immensely touched by the simple fact that they actually remembered me.
My teachers did not expect anything in return – all they wanted is to see us have a good future. When I told them I am now pursuing my studies in mass communications, and love it, they simply smiled. Their eyes shone – with pride, with happiness, and with fulfillment.
Even though teachers are not as highly regarded now as when in the early 1970s, my teachers all had a common goal. They hoped that through their teachings, they could inspire and mould lives. The things they do everyday may be little, but it’s the little things that after accumulation, gives birth to something significant.
I am where I am today because of these noble people who felt a calling to teach – to educate, to inspire, and to touch lives. So, to Mr. Shane Kwok, Mr. James Chia, Ms. Yew, Mdm Wang, Mr. Tan Seng Huat, Ms. Jane Sue, Ms. Ismalia and to the many others who have played a part in shaping my life – Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Happy Teachers’ Day!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Though Anwar have created a miracle in the August 26 by-elections when he rose up or exceeded BN's expectations of winning a large margin over Barisan Nasional's (BN) candidate Mr. Arif Shah Omar Shah, it is still early as to whether he can successfully sit in Parliament for long. Mr. Anwar Ibrahim was sworn into Parliament as a Member of Parliament (MP) today. Many will be watching as to whether he is able to deliver his promise of getting a minimum of 30 BN lawmakers on his side by September 16. This date is specially chosen as it marks the day Malaysia was born, which included Singapore when it first founded.70 per cent of his votes have been contributed by Malays, showing a tremendous amount of support. However, doubts of his sodomy charges are still wavering in the air. Mr. Anwar will have to clear his name somehow either through the law IF he allows the police to take his DNA sample when the DNA Bill is endorsed, or by taking an swearing his innocence on Quran like his aide Mr. Azlan did. Although it looks like he currently possesses an upperhand against the government coalition, he sure has an insurmountable amount of obstacles of overcome before his political frenzy can be stabilised - and God bless, may Malaysia'a economy get back on track.Meanwhile, as Anwar celebrates his new-found victory, PM Abdullah Badawi faces fresh calls to step down. There are signs that his political party is falling apart - this time the crack is even wider than during the March elections. A senior member of the United Malays National Organisation (Umno), Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah, have expressed displeasure over the Prime Minister's capability and calls for a new leadership "to unite our people... and forge a clear national direction".Surprisingly, ever since Mr. Anwar has been contesting in the election race, former Prime Minister Mr. Mahathir Mohammad, has kept out of the limelight - something which is uncommon of him. Mr. Mahathir has groomed and named Mr. Badawi as his successor, however after a few years under PM Mr. Badawai governance, Mahathir expressed that Badawi was not living up to expectations and called for his stepping down. Mr. Mahathir has also played a huge role in instigating senior members of Umno to pressure Badawi to resign. Now, Mr. Mahathir's son Mukhriz, another senior Umno figure contesting to enter the party's influencial youth wing, has motioned for Mr. Abdullah's resignation. Is Mahathir still influencing the political direction in Malaysia today, but through someone else's actions and words?Well, for now, its good luck to both Mr. Anwar Ibrahim and Mr. Abdullah Badawi!Labels: Malaysian Politics
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
A gracious move, many would say, when one sees Hillary Clinton, former First Lady and once a Democrat Presidential candidate who got beaten by Mr. Barak Obama, is now persuading her supporters to unite for a better future - support Obama.
She portrayed herself not a loser busy wallowing in self-pity, but as an elegent and a faithful Democrat, who regardless of who sits on the President chair, only hopes for a better life for the Americans. After watching her speech, I could feel the hearts of her supporters being touched by her action. Praises for her poured in. I believe she has not only brought the election race to new heights, but also inspired many more people internationally. Not to mention that even though her supporters will abide to her request to vote for Obama, this lady will never be forgotten - at least to her contributions in the American history. Sensational, that's what she is.
Clinton pledges her vote to Obama simply for the reason that Obama's pushing for the same women rights and equality for women as her. Obama similarly recognises that the fight in Iraq is doing nothing else other than having already drained US$6 billion of resources and countless lives of the American men out there. Mr. Obama has pledged to end the war in Iraq, work on healthcare policies for the 47 million Americans who still do not have one, drive towards Clean Energy Policy amidst other plans.
Hillary also refered to the Obama team as a "strong team", adding that Mr. Joe Biden is "pragmatic, tough and wise", complimenting Obama perfectly. Democrats are optimistic of the outlook for the Presidential Race at this point in time.
Hillary went on to criticise McCain, saying that even though he is her personal friend, but if he thinks that "47 million Americans without healthcare is normal, and that the economy at this time is fundamentally sound...John McCain and George Bush are inseparable.". In her speech, she had repeatedly stated that the Americans "don't need another 4 years of the Bush administration", after 8 years of Bush. During these 8 years, USA chalked up its "biggest deficit in the American history", launched wars on Iraq and Afghanistan, seen a serious brain-drain out of America, and had "eroded" US's standing worldwide.
Present at the speech with her were her husband Mr. Bill Clinton and daughter.
"Barak Obama is my candidate.."
"No way. No how. No McCain."
Well, she not only drew applause from her audiences live, but found myself applauding for her in my heart when watching the video.
If you want to catch it, you may go to MSNBC.
Labels: USA Politics
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Latest Update from CNA News:
The Malaysian ruling coalition bows out of the government as they concede defeat to Mr. Anwar Ibrahim. He enjoyed an easy victory for the by-election in Permatang Pauh, garnering a majority of 31,195 votes that propelled him into the MP seat.
This number is substantially morecompared to the 13,388 votes Mr. Anwar's wife, Dr. Wan Azizah won before she graced into the Parliament in 1998. She had voluntarily vacated the seat for her husband to run in the elections this year.
BN's number of votes was 15,671 trailing that of Anwar's.
Labels: Malaysian Politics
After suffering a crushing defeat from rival John McCain at the Christian Conference with Guest Pastor Rick Warren anchoring the show, Obama wasted no time in delivering a punch back. That is achieved beautifully with the help of newly enlisted Vice-President choice Joe Bidden.
His debut appearance was an attack on the McCaim camp which earned points from the Obama supporters. Joe Bidden, who has many years of experience in foreign policies and a strong trail of working-class supporters is the perfect man for Obama. He has Obama's back on foreign matters. In addition, the working-class supporters garnered would definitely be a boost to Mr. Obama's votes in Ohio, Michigan and other Rust Belt states.
Mr. Biden has proposed a resolution to be reached for the Iraq war to President George Bush after the Sept 11 attacks, and only said that mobilizing the troops would be a last resort. This is probably partly why Biden was chosen - no outfront support for the Iraq war. Hence, in favour with the Americans. That was probably partly why Hillary Clinton lost out to Obama. Not only did she represent a figure of the old politics (unlike a CHANGE promised by Obama), she supported the Iraq war at that point in time. Bummer!
Most importantly, Mr. Biden's a Roman Christian. Another bonus.
However, many things can happen from between now till November 4.
The US Elections is only going to get more intense. So, grab on tight everyone, lest you fall off the roller coaster ride!Labels: USA Politics
Many fence-sitters wavering would probably have decided on supporting Anwar now. Politicians and political analysts have expressed that Anwar is expected to win easily. This came only after a twist in the sodomy allegations against Anwar was surfaced on Sunday night. A Muslim cleric, who witnessed Mr. Saiful Bukhari Azlan taking his oath at the Federal Territory Mosque, claimed that the oath had not been properly conducted. He had also subtly hinted that he did not believe Mr. Saiful as he thought it was a political conspiracy.According to a survey conducted in Permatang Pauh, only an approximate 169 out of 544 Malay voters believed Mr. Saiful's oath.However, I can't help but question the timely arrival of this alarming news, just like that of Mr. Saiful's oath which occured on August 16 - the eve of Mr. Anwar filing the nomination document. The accusation by Mr. Saiful at that time was tantamount to having Anwar saying good-bye to his new-found political freedom shortly after he was barred from entering politics for 10 years since 1998. So, why is no one raising eye-brows on this fresh declaration? In my opinion, the impact of this prominent news came at such a close timing to the election date that is even more powerful than that of Mr. Saiful's oath. It alarmed Malaysians, naturally swaying their votes to Anwar. However, there are only about 2 days left to the election date, leaving a bewildered Barisan Nasional (BN) who can only stare and see the victory go to PR. BN's strategy? Mr. Arif Shah Omar Shah played the sympathy card. Holding up a police report and showing the hoax SMS he received in a press conference, he claims that he is the "poorest candidate in this race", and added that his duty is to "provide service to his constituents". The SMS stated that people could collect payment from him for the by-election.It is possible that PR is the one behind all these drama occurring. They could have sent a hoax SMS, put BN under fire for a possible bribery charge. Then tip off a witness to reverse the suspicions pertaining to Mr. Saiful's oath. Or maybe the SMS hoax was staged by BN themselves. Then again, it may just be what we see on the surface - its just purely a prank by anyone. One thing I've learnt about politics: It's never simple. Labels: Malaysian Politics
Lastest Update: Ex-PM Nawaz has decided to quit the coalition over dispute of the reinstatement of the lawmakers Musharraf sacked. Labels: Pakistan Politics
Monday, August 25, 2008
Pakistan ex-President Pervez Musharraf have been pressured into resigning from his post last Monday, 18th August 2008, to avoid impeachment charges. The charge is unprecedented for a President. Now, the question is: What lies ahead for the terrorist dominant country?Mr. Musharraf have always been a close US ally - or bluntly put - a US watchdog. However, it is probably thanks to the US control over Pakistan and the aid of US's navy that has helped in establishing that little bit of political and economic stability. The opposition parties united to oust Mr. Musharraf. However, after he stepped down, many speculated that the opposition parties would fall apart due to their differences. Well, not the case - at least up till now. Former Pakistani Premier Nawaz Sharif has made it clear that he would accept arch-rival Ali Zadari to be the next President. His condition: Whoever who "abolishes the 17th Amendment" and reinstate the lawmakers fired by ex-President Musharraf will the next nominated President. An official agreement has been signed.Mr. Nawaz, who heads the Muslim league-Nawaz (PM-L) has also slashed the deadline of Wednesday by 2 days. Mr Zardari, widower of assasinated former premier Benazir Bhutto, had won backing from his Pakistan People's Party (PPP) across the board last Friday, 22 August.He will be running for his Presidential post this Friday, 29 August 2008.Labels: Pakistan Politics
To all the Christians who happens to be reading this message:Pray for the Jews in Georgia.Since 1989, over 23,000 Jews have fled to Georgia to seek refuge. There are approximately 12,000 Jews in Georgia caught in a dilemma. 90 percent of those Jews are currently living in the city of Tiblisi, the capital of Georgia. That is where the Russian troops are situated. Even though a consensus have been established and President of Russia Dmitri Medvedev have agreed to a troop withdrawal, many troops still remain in Georgia.The Jews are in a life-threatening situation right now. Please keep them in your prayers.Labels: Israel: The Land of God
I must say, the 2008 Malaysian Elections is really a must-watch. Forget your Channel 5's Must-see-Tuesday. Instead, switch your channel to "Wrestlers: Anwar VS Arif Shah Omar Shah". This is better than W.W.E.
The Malaysian Elections have been dominating headlines day after day since the announcement of Mr. Anwar Ibrahim contesting for a seat in the Parliament. After suffering countless personal attacks on his past sodomy charges from both Mahathir (ex-Prime Minister) and Barisan Nasional (BN), the elections have been pushed to new heights. The escalating heat, the rising worries of the citizens. Boy, is it stressful for the Malaysian denizens right now. I'm in Singapore, and I can feel the anxieties of the PKR and BN.
The elections reached a climax when one of Mr. Anwar's aide, Mr Saiful, took an oath in a mosque and sweared on Quran that he was sodomised by Mr. Anwar. He even challenged Mr. Anwar to do the same to prove his innocence. Mr. Anwar was quick to reply as well, saying that he was "forbidden" by Islamic religious teachers to take an oath on the Quran.
Now, Penang has declared tomorrow a public holiday so that citizens can cast their votes for PKR's candidate Anwar. Previously, it was suspected that the Election Commission who set the Election date on a Tuesday supports the BN, and hopes that this move would discourage Anwar voters from voting.
Tomorrow is the long-awaited day.
I just hope that all this would end soon. After all, at the end of the day, the citizens are the ones who suffer the most (economically, socially etc.).
Labels: Malaysian Politics
The Beijing Olympics yesterday ended with a spectacular BANG! The splendor of fireworks, the voracious crowd in the Bird Nest, and the magnificent cheography of performance which can be credited to Zhang Yimou - beautiful. However, beneath all that glory set my mind reeling on what China had so efficiently swept under their carpet - the politics. During this 2 weeks everyone was so caught up in the Olympic Games that one probably has placed the Tibetan Issue at the back of their minds - thrown into a folder called "Outdated Affairs". No, it is not. To be brutally honest, if several protesters have not caused a motion at the Beijing stadium, I would have displaced this issue into that memory folder of mine too. So, I must really say, "Job well done!", to the China officials. The Chinese government came up with a brilliant strategy: To allow protesters to carry out their protest activities at designated places in China. BUT here's the condition: One must apply for a protester permit before one is being allowed to carry out their activities there. So, exactly how many permits are being issued till this point in time, you may ask. Well, the figures remains unknown, but for all we know, its a perfect zero. Let's wait to see. In the meantime, it'll be interesting to see how China faces this issue after the Beijing Olympics 2008. Labels: China Politics
Sunday, August 24, 2008
As many would have correctly pointed out, the measure was unarguably too successful. And in this case, it has a negative impact on the decades ahead since 1972 when the Family Planning and Population Board launched the policy. The reason: the advertisements and posters have not only sent the message out to those who are setting up a family in the 1970s, but also to their offspring.
My mother was ten at that time, but she remembers the message until now. She’s in her late forties now. Imagine the impact. The decision to have two children, she admitted, have been more or less been affected by the policy. The idea of a small and manageable family of four became the iconic ideal family deeply entrenched in their minds. What left the deepest impression on her mind is the poster of a Family Planning advertisement, showing a family of four under one roof.
Gradually, due to the economy pick-up in Singapore, Singaporeans are becoming more affluent and enjoying a higher standard of living. Then comes the birth of career women who are to a certain extent influenced by the western ideologies. This led to a breakthrough in the younger generation as they embrace the new ideologies and began reshaping Singapore’s workforce. That saw the influx of more women entering the workforce, the rise of a conglomerate of women coming together to fight for their rights and unavoidably, the plunging birth rates.
As for me, my ideal family would be having two children as well – one boy and one girl. A balanced and manageable family, in my thinking. Probably because in my generation I have already been living in the comfort zones of my living room, and not running around in kampong with a big group of friends playing marbles. The Singapore today is vastly different from the past where Singaporeans live together, and hear (literally) everything from marriage squabbles to what your neighbour’s cooking for dinner. A big community living together, that is. We younger generations are just not accustomed to it. Rowdy is just not my thing.
Labels: General Affairs
Gong Li is our fellow Singaporean now – is it a mere rumor or a fact? However, regardless of the truth behind this fact, her image has already been played up by the mainstream media at the infiltration of, may I stress again, a mere rumor at this stage.
I believe that many Singaporeans would welcome Gong Li with open arms. I mean, rebut me, but what’s there not to like about the highly credited Asian beauty? To be frank, I’ve heard her name since I was of a very young age. The pride of the Asians would definitely go to Gong Li without any hints of debate – that’s of course if my parents were the judges, and if there was such an award. The culmination of Gong Li’s career credentials is not one that many in the world can beat in the aspect of fame and riches in the entertainment industry in Asia.
Gong Li’s entrance would be of one that propels Singapore’s name further across the globe, boosting our reputation. Increased media attention internationally is an understatement. Her reasons for applying to become a citizen of Singapore would be highly watched, and probably shared by others. Her entry may well bring more tourists and an influx of foreign talents into Singapore. A big plus would be her fat, enticing paycheck. Not only will Singapore have an addition to the list of billionaires, but also a boost to the nation’s revenue via tax collection. Its good-bye recession, and hello bonuses.
However, will China bear to forgo such a gold nugget? What will then be China’s response on this issue? Her glory would be difficult to establish or give credit to either countries. Diplomatic ties between Singapore and China must be managed well.
I am in favor that Gong Li takes up Singapore’s citizenship, but all said and done, the main crux of the issue remains, is that “Gong Li” the “Gong Li’ that we’ve all been referring to.Labels: General Affairs
