Fernn Lim’s Post

Shankar R. Santhiram seems pretty fired up about the state of things in Malaysia, and rightfully so. It's frustrating when political maneuvers overshadow the real needs and progress of a nation. It's clear he's calling for a shift in the way people approach voting and politics in general. Focusing on the candidate rather than blindly following a party is a powerful idea. His call for accountability is essential. Politicians should be answerable to the people who elect them, not just to party leaders. It's a powerful reminder that change often starts from the ground up. Holding representatives responsible for their actions and choices is crucial for a healthier, more responsive government. His sentiment about the loss of what Malaysia once stood for, its multicultural essence, and the need to reclaim that identity is poignant. Rebuilding that unity and strength in diversity requires collective effort, and as he rightly points out, it starts with making informed and thoughtful choices as citizens. What do you think of his approach to redefining the voting process, focusing more on the candidate's intentions and actions rather than party loyalty? Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad Kian-Ming Ong Ts. Mahadhir Aziz, PMP Arham Abdul Rahman Redza Rafiq Abdul Razak Tengku Zafrul Aziz

Today is Singapore's National Day. Singapore is a monumental success story in so many ways and a work in progress in others. My greatest wish for Singapore is for all of us, nationals and foreign residents alike to recognise, acknowledge and express what we know to be true in our hearts - that for most of us, this country has given as opportunities and a standard of living, unobtainable in most parts of the world. Increasingly there are too many fault lines in our society - between locals and foreigners, between the elite and the masses; between the newly woke and the generation of industry and toil. The truth of the matter is that all 6 million of us need to get along in this small space and the best way of doing so, is to focus, on why we call this home. These are my wishes for Singapore: 1. I wish when I catch anyone's gaze on the street for a fleeting moment, we would exchange a knowing looking of gratitude. Like we been privy to the am inside secret that the rest of the world doesn’t know. That, whether we are local or foreign, this country has given us more than we deserve or imagine for. 2. I wish locals and foreigners interact continuously in school, at the work place and in our residential dwellings to realise that we aren’t so different; that one group isn’t better than the other. International schools with exhorbitatnt fees and colonial black & white houses are two examples of where the distinction between local and foreigners reinforce stereotypes and the divides between different segments of society. 3. I wish we are kinder to each other - that we no longer need to be the first in the queue, or refuse to give space on the roads or for that matter in our hearts. 4. I wish we treated migrant workers better and we can start by ensuring that they not transported like cattle. 5. I wish I would no longer be asked the question “where are you from" with such unbelieving looks to that extent that I feel the need to walk around with my birth certificate. Most of all, I wish we stopped asking what this country can give us ( PR, jobs, subsidies, fancy houses) but what we can give to this country to carry on its credo: Majulah Singapura. This country was built on a call to stand up, contribute and be counted. Do that and the Singapore dream gives you spades more. Photo: The Singapore Padang, August 2023

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭'𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐏𝐌 𝐋𝐚𝐰𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐞? 🗺️✨🧑🤝🧑 Last week, it was announced that Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will relinquish his office on 15 May 2024. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong will succeed him on the same day. This is a 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐮𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 for Singapore particularly because Prime Minister Lee has been the 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝟐𝟎 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐰. He has been 𝐤𝐞𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐞'𝐬 𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠*. *World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) describes it as a country’s strategy to convey a particular image of itself beyond its borders to achieve certain beneficial goals. 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐏𝐌 𝐖𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐟𝐭 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞? 🔴 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐬 - Indicates an openness and transparency of communication. - Connect more personally with his audience, engaging with viral trends and encouraging engagement through stunts such as TikTok duets eg. Budget - Leverage LinkedIn to disseminate key information. Mix business with pleasure. 🔴 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐈𝐧 - Spend time on LinkedIn to share professional news and knowledge. The platform where opinions matter. - For politicians, it means posting about policies and work issues on LinkedIn (being a politician is a professional job). - Allow people to understand the background of the work and the policies done at the ministry level. 🔴 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐝𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐥𝐲 - In our late Prime Minister's book that "he ran Singapore not just as a country but as a business or a corporation". - Stay relevant and continue to progress like an entrepreneurial business through this approach. - Looking at the content on his social profiles, DPM Wong strikes a good balance of professionalism and humanity and that is reflective of the Singaporean culture. Agree? 😉 #socialmedia #digitalmarketing #marketing #singaporebrand ✪✪✪ I am #gladysɴg, a #LBFalumni member, at #SkyHighTower #careerağilityinternational Know me better ➡️ Gladys Ng (GCDF)

The following is my answer to a Quora question: “Is there any movement in Malaysia trying to reincorporate Singapore?”   It would not make political sense to do that.  One of the reasons why Singapore was removed from Malaysia was because of the Malay-nationalists about the racial balance. Singapore was one of two Chinese-majority states then.  The other was Penang.  Singapore had a significantly larger population, and a higher ratio of non-Malays.  We must also remember that UMNO never had a significant following in Singapore.  The parties in Singapore, whilst largely Chinese-dominated, were plural.  The PAP campaigned on a “Malaysian Malaysia”, as opposed to a “Malay Malaysia”.  This is the historical baggage there.   In the fifty years since, the divergent political philosophies between these two nations have become especially stark.  The population of non-Malays in Malaysia has shrunk tremendously.  The bumiputera policy, and the concept of Ketuanan Melayu, is deeply entrenched. Singapore rejoining that would immediately threaten that.   Leaving aside this fantasy, Singapore itself has no incentive to rejoin Malaysia.  Considering the huge discrepancy in wealth, Singapore would end up subsidising Malaysia.  Singapore’s leadership also has no desire to rule Malaysia, just like the Malaysians.  We are better off as neighbours, and distinct polities. Terence Nunis Terence K. J. Nunis, Consultant Chief Executive Officer, Equinox GEMTZ

I had my first glimpse into Singapore's fascinating journey after leaving Malaysia after watched a documentary of Lee Kuan Yew 100 Tahun in Youtube. Lee Kuan Yew's leadership transformed this small nation into a robust economic powerhouse. He brilliantly crafted a social model that fostered high-performance communities by placing a strong emphasis on education. In Singapore, they firmly believe that education can empower people to acquire new skills and become experts in various fields, particularly in industry-related areas. This achievement has led to a significant increase in people's incomes, making them attractive to foreign investors. Singapore has effectively leveraged its skilled workforce to boost economic revenue. Lee Kuan Yew was not only an efficient communicator but also a unifying figure. Despite the diverse ethnicities in Singapore, he managed to connect with people by speaking Malay during public speeches on radio and TV in the 60s to 80s, bridging cultural differences. His simple yet powerful motto, 'Do it good, do it best,' continues to inspire Singaporeans to strive for excellence. They believe in making the most of their resources and fostering a 'self-help organization' mentality, which has propelled Singapore to become a world-renowned financial hub. From improving housing plans to enhancing industrial skills and education, Lee Kuan Yew's vision has elevated Singapore to its status as a top global financial hub. Hopefully we can learn to succeed. Regardless where we came from, eventhough we only got our own bare hands to do things, do it good and do it best. Recommended to watch the video. 🇸🇬 #SingaporeSuccess #MalaysiaDay16thSept #LeeKuanYewLegacy #doitgooddoitbest

Congratulations, Anita, on your successful PR application! 🎉 While everyone's journey is unique, we're thrilled to hear about your approval in just 6 months. 🇸🇬🌟 The Immigration People wishes you all the best on this new chapter! 🥳👏 #PRSuccess #SingaporePR #immigrationconsultant #immigrationservices #Singapore #permanentresidency #SingaporePR #successtips #theimmigrationpeople

✨Celebrating 58 Glorious Years of Singapore's Achievements! As we approach the joyous occasion of Singapore's National Day, I can't help but reflect on the remarkable journey this vibrant nation has undertaken over the past 58 years. Having been fortunate enough to call this remarkable city-state home for the last year and a half, I've had the privilege to witness firsthand the spirit of resilience, innovation, and unity that defines Singapore. From humble beginnings to becoming a global powerhouse, Singapore has achieved feats that inspire the world. As we raise our flags high and embrace the colors of the nation, let's take a moment to marvel at some of the incredible achievements that have shaped Singapore's identity: 1. Economic Miracle: Singapore's transformation from a small fishing village to an economic powerhouse is awe-inspiring. The determination to diversify industries, coupled with strategic investments in technology and innovation, has established Singapore as a global financial hub. 2. Green Oasis: Amidst urbanity, Singapore has managed to create an urban landscape that seamlessly integrates lush greenery. The iconic Gardens by the Bay and the commitment to sustainability serve as an example to the world. 3. Healthcare Excellence: The response to the ongoing global challenges demonstrated the robust healthcare system and efficient governance that Singapore is known for. The nation's approach to managing crises showcases its adaptability and readiness to face any adversity. 4. Innovation and Research: Singapore's dedication to research and development has propelled it to the forefront of innovation. From biotechnology to smart city solutions, the nation continues to pave the way for a brighter future. 5. Education Hub: With world-class institutions and a commitment to lifelong learning, Singapore has created an environment that fosters intellectual growth and empowers its citizens to contribute globally. 6. Cultural Diversity: The harmonious coexistence of cultures is a testament to Singapore's inclusivity. It's heartwarming to see how different ethnicities and traditions enrich the nation's fabric. As we celebrate Singapore's National Day, let's cherish the collective accomplishments that define this remarkable nation. Here's to the unwavering spirit of Singapore and its people, who have turned dreams into reality and continue to strive for excellence. Happy 58th National Day, Singapore! #SingaporeNationalDay #ProudToBeInSingapore #Resilience #Innovation #Unity #Progress

🇲🇾 Looking back on an incredible 47 years as a Malaysian since 1957. 🎉 Life's been a whirlwind of emotions, from happiness to heartache, including the rollercoaster that is Malaysian politics. 🏛️ These recent years have seen leaders come and go, non-stop controversies, and dreams of a better Malaysia. As someone who's lived 47 years as a Malaysian, I've witnessed our fellow citizens standing up for what's right, demanding fairness, transparency, and change. 🗣️🕊️ Amidst our unique differences, our rich tapestry of cultures has always been our pride. 🌏🤝 And even in the face of challenges, our unity prevails. But let's talk real here. Today's political scenario? It's been a maze of uncertainty and mixed signals. 🌩️ It's gotten tough to separate the people's needs from the political haze. But you know what? We won't let that dim our spirit. ⚡🇲🇾 The legacy of our freedom fighters whispers in our ears, reminding us that the duty to shape Malaysia's future lies with us. 🙌💪 As we move ahead, let's stand strong, demanding genuine positive changes, true transparency, and a political system that truly serves the people. 🌟🇲🇾 #47YearsOfJourney #MalaysianPoliticsUnmasked #OurCommitmentToChange

Singapore’s Change of Leadership and Global Strategy: A View from My Office Window On stressful days, I often pause to gaze out from my office window, looking at the bustling Port of Singapore, seeing ships loading and unloading continuously surrounded by the vibrant cityscape, I am filled with a deep sense of appreciation for our dynamic nation, somehow made my day less stressful. This view not only showcases our bustling port—one of the world’s busiest—but also encapsulates the spirit of progress and resilience that defines Singapore. I am particularly reflective as Singapore approach a significant transition with Mr Lawrence Wong set to take over as Prime Minister from Mr. Lee Hsien Loong on 15 May 2024. It's a moment that signifies continuity and change, themes deeply embedded in our nation's history since gaining independence in 1965—a year before I was born. Having been adopted by Singaporean parents and becoming a citizen at 21, I have experienced firsthand the opportunities and warmth that our society extends. Working in the private education sector, I have seen a growing number of international students choose Singapore for their studies over other global hubs. This choice speaks volumes about the trust and value placed in our education system and our country as a whole. Looking ahead, although the landscape outside my window will transform with the port relocating soon and new buildings rising, my hope for Singapore remains steadfast. I may not see the next 50 years, but I trust that future generations—our children and hopefully grandchildren—will inherit a nation that continues to thrive on the legacy of its people: Singaporeans, permanent residents, and foreigners who have made this island their home. Here is to the ever-evolving picture outside my window and to a future where innovation and inclusivity continue to drive Singapore forward. #Singapore #Education #FutureReady #LeadershipTransition

The following is my answer to a Quora question: “Is there any movement in Malaysia trying to reincorporate Singapore?”   It would not make political sense to do that.  One of the reasons why Singapore was removed from Malaysia was because of the Malay-nationalists about the racial balance. Singapore was one of two Chinese-majority states then.  The other was Penang.  Singapore had a significantly larger population, and a higher ratio of non-Malays.  We must also remember that UMNO never had a significant following in Singapore.  The parties in Singapore, whilst largely Chinese-dominated, were plural.  The PAP campaigned on a “Malaysian Malaysia”, as opposed to a “Malay Malaysia”.  This is the historical baggage there.   In the fifty years since, the divergent political philosophies between these two nations have become especially stark.  The population of non-Malays in Malaysia has shrunk tremendously.  The bumiputera policy, and the concept of Ketuanan Melayu, is deeply entrenched. Singapore rejoining that would immediately threaten that.   Leaving aside this fantasy, Singapore itself has no incentive to rejoin Malaysia.  Considering the huge discrepancy in wealth, Singapore would end up subsidising Malaysia.  Singapore’s leadership also has no desire to rule Malaysia, just like the Malaysians.  We are better off as neighbours, and distinct polities. Terence Nunis Terence K. J. Nunis, Consultant Chief Executive Officer, Equinox GEMTZ