Playtime Twincharged March 18, 2019 Share March 18, 2019 Tio kan liao..... https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10156477115033579&id=516798578 Airport security should have stepped in la.This is harassment ↡ Advertisement Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ingenius Turbocharged March 19, 2019 Share March 19, 2019 (edited) https://criticalspectator.com/world/new-zealand-tragedy-could-have-been-avoided-if-the-world-studied-singapore?fbclid=IwAR3ZJV89Ga6MC1RIK2znfbuEVPAKQm42e-EF6vglqnWHugILYHwAhM81Kw0 New Zealand Tragedy Could Have Been Avoided if the World Had Studied Singapore (excerpt) It’s hardly a secret that I am hugely impressed by the small city-state of Singapore – what I often present in my articles here. But few people realize or understand why that is – or why I believe this little island has plenty to teach the rest of the globe. The terrible attack that happened in New Zealand will allow me to explain a few of the reasons – and why, had the world decided to learn from Singaporean experiences, this and many other acts of terrorism would likely have never happened. Microcosm of the World There are many areas in which the island state can show the way forward – economic management, combating crime, infrastructural development, taxation, law and so on. All of them, however, are bound by the need to serve the society – one which is arguably the most diverse in the developed world. On the surface it appears to be dominated by the ethnic Chinese who comprise 75% of the 4 million resident population (with Malays at 13% and Indians at 9%). In reality, however, additional 1.65 million – or 30% of the total – consists of mainly non-resident low to mid-range workers from the region – India, Bangladesh, Indonesia and, of course, neighboring Malaysia (among others). So not only can Singapore act as an example of how to elevate a country from the 3rd to the top of the 1st world within mere 50 years – but how to achieve so much when the population is divided along ethnic, religious and cultural lines – with a high percentage of fresh immigrants. Through its diversity it is really a microcosm of the world – and how it should be – where people from all of its corners have come together to work, trade, live in a crime free, clean, well-organized, safe environment. But it was not always so. Singapore gained independence against its will, after being expelled from the federation it formed with Malaysia – a result of tensions between the Malay and the Chinese (both politicians and people) which led to incidents (some deadly) throughout the 1960s. And yet, today, it is easily the safest developed country in the world, recording crime rates between 5 to 15 times smaller than the West. Given its diverse population, representing practically all races and major religions, while sharing such a small space, it is an ideal example how multiculturalism can be managed for the benefit of all. Managing Diversity Conflicts are a natural occurrence in all groups of people. Even if they share the same ethnicity or religion, someone is going to be rich or poor, tall or short, fat or skinny, pretty or not, from the city or a kampong, left wing, right wing etc. Of course the more profound the differences the greater the potential divide and tensions. These issues do not resolve themselves by just leaving people alone – as most tend to gravitate to those who are similar to them, failing to bond closely with others. This phenomenon is often seen in the West in the form of ethnic “ghettos”, what only amplifies the problems stemming from lack of integration and understanding. Singapore, under Lee Kuan Yew’s leadership, took a much more disciplined path. “I am often accused of interfering in the private lives of citizens. Yes, if I did not, had I not done that, we wouldn’t be here today. And I say without the slightest remorse, that we wouldn’t be here, we would not have made economic progress, if we had not intervened on very personal matters – who your neighbour is, how you live, the noise you make, how you spit, or what language you use. We decide what is right. Never mind what the people think.” – LEE KUAN YEW Given the tumultuous situation the country gained independence in – with tensions with Malaysia and Indonesian Konfrontasi – it was essential for its survival that nobody feels inferior, since it could incentivize allegiance to external powers. While Malaysia embraced its Bumi policies, giving preferential treatment to Malays, Singapore had managed to forge a society that everybody could identify with. But it didn’t just happen – it required many years of dedicated, planned management. Unlike the communists , who wanted to wipe out different identities and replace them with the Utopian New Man, Singaporeans embraced their differences. Every child is required to master both English and the mother tongue of its culture – Mandarin, Malay or Tamil. Every group can celebrate its holidays – albeit in a way that preserves equality of representation, so that there are no accusations of favoritism. And to force closer integration, public housing estates – where most Singaporeans live – have racial quota imposed to reflect the make up of the society and ensure different people live next door instead of clumping into isolated, racial districts. Keep Your Views to Yourself Most importantly, however, Singaporean authorities also control what is being said and published – and that is one of the most important lessons. Blindly idealistic free speech absolutists are going to protest right now but Singapore has implemented strict policies to preserve social harmony, which outlaw any attempts at inflaming racial or religious tensions by any criticism or ridicule of different people – or beliefs – in the society. As a result everybody tends to keep theirs to themselves. Religions are equally protected – and equally restricted – to avoid pointless conflicts over ideological issues that could set off a spiral of hate. What you do or don’t believe in is a personal matter that has no place in the public discourse. This equality of treatment is extremely important because it prevents disenfranchisement, which may motivate people to take rash actions out of anger over being marginalized or targeted by whom they perceive to be sellout politicians. That’s what led to the tragedy in New Zealand. Western Recklessness The attack on two mosques in Christchurch – an extreme consequence of the rise of nationalist, right wing sentiments across the developed world – is a result of years of inconsistent policies of Western leaders. (Jihadist extremism there has similar roots). Generations of politicians have utterly failed at integrating foreign migrants (who have been coming to Europe since the 1960s), resulting in their gradual segregation in e.g. the infamous Parisian banlieues. Resulting social and criminal problems only deepened the divide between them and the locals. In the meanwhile, law enforcement has limited means of preventing violence since it can only arrest people who commit crimes – what means the need to monitor them 24/7. Given thousands of suspected radicals it is just physically impossible. In Singapore, however, under Internal Security Act, all individuals credibly suspect of potentially dangerous activity can be detained before they do anything rash. Westerners like to decry these laws as uncivilized and prone to abuse, but what is more important: worrying about imaginary threats or dealing with the real ones? To make matters worse laws curbing provocative hate speech of any sort are either inexistent or applied inconsistently, further contributing to polarization rather than integration. In some cases it has become quite ludicrous. People land in courts and get prison sentences for angry posts on social media – while the authorities… are busy planning how to reintegrate returning ISIS fighters into the society by helping them find jobs and housing. Such short-sighted governance only creates frustration and a sense of betrayal, which are a breeding ground for extreme behavior. The media hardly help either. Westerners tend to be patronizing about media supervision in Singapore – while they are almost uniformly ignorant of the obvious fact that freedom has to come with responsibility. If this responsibility cannot be expected it has to be enforced so that liberties are not abused by self-serving individuals or organizations – while destroying the fabric of the society. As a result European and American media coverage of the current issues of immigration and terrorism is painfully polarized, partisan and destructive. Because sensationalism sells. On the right end of the spectrum you’re likely to hear that what’s happening is some sort of a civilizational invasion of criminals and enemies of the West, and that the locals will soon become a minority in their own countries. On the left you’re going to learn that the real threat to humanity is right-wing fascism and that accepting people from all over the world – regardless of their competences, language skills or criminal record – is the best thing ever. And if you happen to disagree you’re practically a Nazi. Singapore shows that neither of these views is even remotely true. That you can build a culturally diverse society enjoying economic abundance, free from crime, keeping extremism at bay, giving everybody – regardless of their heritage – a chance to become valuable, accomplished people without cutting off their roots. But its story also cautions that to achieve it you need to be honest about the challenges and dangers, enact laws that curb harmful, self-serving behavior and – crucially – apply them honestly and equally. Any deviation from these rules – even with good intentions – is bound to have catastrophic consequences in the end. Like we sadly witnessed just a few days ago… Edited March 19, 2019 by Ingenius 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ingenius Turbocharged March 19, 2019 Share March 19, 2019 (edited) Perspective of a foreigner, and often shared by many other foreigners. Perhaps many of us don't know how fortunate we are and how great our country is. Edited March 19, 2019 by Ingenius 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
PSP415 Supersonic March 19, 2019 Share March 19, 2019 Perspective of a foreigner, and often shared by many other foreigners. Perhaps many of us don't know how fortunate we are and how great our country is.Haha...here, the West is glorified as mount Olympus of FREEDOM. So free that there's no responsibility taught. Everything West must be best. Haiz...they have their best, once...but things not the same anymore. More problems internally and externally. Let's be united. We bloody small and easy to be bullied. Not seen a perfect man or woman yet, so i manage my expectation of a perfect govt. Just sharing. We die a fast death thru internal strife. Hence, be wise. Its not always about me, i, myself and oftentimes, its about Singapore, our home. Not as many places to want to migrate as b4. I old fashioned too. Like my parents, who often tell me, "Dun bring us out of Singapore. We born here, we want to die here". Guess it shaped how they wholeheartedly and steadfastly hold on their loyalty, not to the govt but to the country of birth. Says alot to me. Safe ride Cheers 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ingenius Turbocharged March 19, 2019 Share March 19, 2019 Haha...here, the West is glorified as mount Olympus of FREEDOM. So free that there's no responsibility taught. Everything West must be best. Haiz...they have their best, once...but things not the same anymore. More problems internally and externally. Let's be united. We bloody small and easy to be bullied. Not seen a perfect man or woman yet, so i manage my expectation of a perfect govt. Just sharing. We die a fast death thru internal strife. Hence, be wise. Its not always about me, i, myself and oftentimes, its about Singapore, our home. Not as many places to want to migrate as b4. I old fashioned too. Like my parents, who often tell me, "Dun bring us out of Singapore. We born here, we want to die here". Guess it shaped how they wholeheartedly and steadfastly hold on their loyalty, not to the govt but to the country of birth. Says alot to me. Safe ride Cheers Well said. Many locals complain that Singapore lacks of freedom of speech, such as controlled media, restricted protesting and people being sued for defamation. But they don't realise that it is exactly these policies that has created a our safe haven. Look at what is happening around the world around. Singapore is safe and enjoyed consistent progress, because of a cohesive and harmonious society, with a strong one party governance without having to be busy with political infighting like many states with two opposing parties, look at Malaysia and such. On the other hand, look at China, who has one strong dominant party , and has progressed tremendously. People don't realise how successful and fortunate we are comparatively, until they talk to foreigners who mostly unequivocally will tell you so, as I have experienced countless times. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Civicblade 2nd Gear March 19, 2019 Share March 19, 2019 You mean to say New Zealand is a backward corrupted country ? How did you ever come to this conclusion that Ingenius (which you have quoted) was implying that New Zealand is a backward corrupted country? There was nothing in the quoted section that can lead any reader to this conclusion. I am curious as to why you would pose this question to Ingenius? 2 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Civicblade 2nd Gear March 19, 2019 Share March 19, 2019 How come a question became a conclusion ? Maybe you don't have a conclusion. I don't really know. I am still curious as to why you asked that question after quoting the paragraphs from Ingenius. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Othello Supersonic March 19, 2019 Share March 19, 2019 Perspective of a foreigner, and often shared by many other foreigners. Perhaps many of us don't know how fortunate we are and how great our country is. ahhhh, this angmo must really love Singapore. He has many articles that praised Singapore to the Skies Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fcw75 Hypersonic March 20, 2019 Share March 20, 2019 Damn... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
1fast1 Supersonic March 20, 2019 Share March 20, 2019 Damn... F2C4BEFB-BF9B-409E-8BE9-6E3D8680FA1C.jpeg You will see much, much worse online. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
PSP415 Supersonic March 20, 2019 Share March 20, 2019 (edited) Damn... F2C4BEFB-BF9B-409E-8BE9-6E3D8680FA1C.jpeg No end lah. Lands lost in wars. Constant fighting since 1946. Sometimes i wonder when it will ever end and peace for both sides. In war, forever the women, children, weak and old innocents sure kena...BOTH SIDES. Haiz....guess Benjamin guy better keep quiet. Then again, ppl may still kpkb he did not bother to respond. I read the history of the years of wars. And i realised that the Muslim world dun really care for the Palestinians, viewing them as troublemakers as well when they had not attacked Israel back then. That's why none of the Muslim world willing to cede some of their vast lands to them but encourage them to fight for the lands lost. Yes they cannot accept Israel occupying Jerusalem. But Jerusalem has always been with Israel for a bloody long time. Complicated lah. I sincerely wish peace will reign soon. Pls pardon my lack of understanding and dun take offence ya. Safe ride Cheers Edited March 20, 2019 by PSP415 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Playtime Twincharged March 20, 2019 Share March 20, 2019 Damn... F2C4BEFB-BF9B-409E-8BE9-6E3D8680FA1C.jpeg she conveniently forgot who were cheering as the planes hit in 911., face palm... self pawn.... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lala81 Hypersonic March 21, 2019 Share March 21, 2019 Finally some common sense. U don't need AR 15s to protect yourself against animals or do simple hunting... Christchurch shootings: New Zealand to ban military style weapons, says PM - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-47648549 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fcw75 Hypersonic March 21, 2019 Share March 21, 2019 Good job. This PM Jacinda Arden only 38 years old. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Playtime Twincharged March 21, 2019 Share March 21, 2019 Good job. This PM Jacinda Arden only 38 years old. And she's actually LEADING from the front. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
PSP415 Supersonic March 21, 2019 Share March 21, 2019 Not bad. She is also the first prime minister to march in a gay parade and plans to de-legalise use of cannabis plus remove abortion as a criminal act. I like that she wants to cut down on immigration figures citing infrastructure issues but increase figures of refugees coming to NZ. Hehe...i curious so went to Google. Not the first lady pm for NZ though. But she's the youngest pm in the world. Power. Safe ride Cheers 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wt_know Supersonic March 21, 2019 Share March 21, 2019 (edited) Finally some common sense. U don't need AR 15s to protect yourself against animals or do simple hunting... Christchurch shootings: New Zealand to ban military style weapons, says PM - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-47648549 tell that to ah trump korwhy amdk need guns and thousand rounds of bullets at home he must be expecting an invasion Edited March 21, 2019 by Wt_know Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fcw75 Hypersonic March 21, 2019 Share March 21, 2019 tell that to ah trump kor why amdk need guns and thousand rounds of bullets at home he must be expecting an invasion His thinking is Only a good man with a gun can stop a bad man with a gun. And she's actually LEADING from the front. ð± Not scholar, not general, muggle family, salary less than amk hdb, no decades of experience... Horrible woman... deliberately out to make others look malu.. Not married too. Only have a partner whom she had a kid with. Power...I likey. ↡ Advertisement Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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