This headline in the papers made me recall my GP (General Paper) lessons at Pre-U. Occasionally, we discussed about things like communism and democracy. I think most of us students had only superficial knowledge of these. America was capitalism, China was communism and Singapore, democratic socialism.
I remember writing an essay, something about Nationalism. My scanty knowledge of nationalism was from a few articles I read in newspapers and magazines. But I wrote as if I knew a lot. Come to think of it, I was really a toad in a well.
But one thing, even in those days I was aware that race, religion and language are sensitive topics. Later I also understand why Malay is our National Language. I studied some Malay out of necessity but have forgotten more than 90% already because of un-use.
Last year, a newspaper in Denmark published some cartoons on Prophet Mohammad. There were protests by Muslims in many countries. I read some blog comments. A few Singaporeans have this view - After 40 years of independence, we are more mature now, so we can discuss racial and religious issues rationally. We should be allowed to debate them freely.
I find it hard to agree with this view.
Another news item – A brief ceremony to remember victims of the Japanese Occupation - peace is precious. (Singapore fell to the Japanese in 15 February 1942.) Peace and independence are linked to defense.
Some people feel that Asean countries are friendly and we have no imminent danger of being attacked, so Singapore does not need to maintain a strong armed force or to spend so much on defense.
This is another view I don’t agree with.
These two things (policies on religion and defense) you cannot try out first and if something unpleasant happens, then revert to original position.
1 comment:
Agreed. Race and religion are sensitive topics. Don't pray pray.
Relations with other countries may be good now but they can take a turn for the worse at any time. We have to be prepared at all times.
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