I was reading the Sunday Times this morning. On this significant day of the year, page after page, the papers, English and Chinese alike, were filled with greetings and salutations , from corporations and individuals, wishing the nation "Happy Birthday". Amidst other news and articles, this article written by Janadas Devan , Review Editor, evoked some thoughts:
"Singapore's National Day is an anti-anniversary. Unlike the independence day celebrations of other nations, Singapore's can never be a remembrance of its founding."
"History, usually generous and colourful in celebrating births, has bequeathed to us only one memorable event to mark our origin: Mr Lee Kuan Yew cried that day. He did not cry with joy."
"For me,", he said, "it is a moment of anguish." The SEPARATION "broke everything we stood for".
Many a times, it is tough decisions like this that pushes us out of our comfort zone in pursuit of greater achievements. As an agency, we have been faced with different threats, both internal and external. The decision to detach ourselves from our extended "family" gives us only ONE option alone -that is, to SUCCEED.
A brief history: In 1963, Singapore became part of the Federation of Malaysia. However, the union was short-lived. The Malaysian Central Government, ruled by the UMNO, became worried by the inclusion of Singapore's Chinese majority and the political challenge of the PAP in Malaysia. After a chain of events like racial riots, transport disruption etc, Lee Kuan Yew signed a separation agreement on 9 August 1965, declaring Singapore's independence. MM Lee was not without his fears. Singapore's lack of natural resources, a water supply that was beholden primarily to Malaysia and a very limited defensive capability were the major challenges staring at him in the face.
It is by no coincidence that National Day has always held a special place in my heart. Just to share some Kodak moments of the day:
"I love Singapore!!!"
The Fly Past 
The nation recites the pledge in one voice at 8.22pm.
The Singapore Flyer -our nation's pride, dazzled in an illuminating RED.Bother NOT with what others say. Fear NOT of tomorrow, for Together, WE can scale ALL heights.
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hee ! Ganbatte Singapore !
ReplyDeletei read only the first half when i posted that comment . for that was all that was up at the time .
ReplyDeletewhen i finished the rest of your post , i had tears in my eyes .. and wished i could've been there to help MM Lee , not that he would've needed it , just that i would have liked to have mattered to him or singapore's growth .
Boss, it's an inspiring post.
ReplyDeleteThank you. For everything.
YOu're welcome, Esther. One heart, One voice. Everything you pledge for is within your reach.
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