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A decade ago, national flags were hung by more than half the households in Singapore to celebrate the country's independence. There was a prevasive fear in the community that they will be 'punished' by the government if they do not express their "patriotism" explicity.
Later on, when the state media carried a report that those who hung the flag wrongly or beyond a certain time-frame will be fined and even jailed, the number of flags on display declined appreciably.
Though the above scenario may sound exaggerated and even hilarious, the reality on the ground is not far away: we are a nation united by apathy and ruled by fear.
Taiwanese political commentator Li Ao once made an interesting, if not controversial observation: "Taiwanese are lecherous, Hong Kongers are cunning, Singaporeans are 'cute'" (a Taiwanese euphemism for 'stupid')
Li's remarks triggered a major public furore in Singapore with many writing to the press to lampoon him. However, few bother to reflect on his words to assess if there is any element of truth.
Read rest of article here:
http://temasekreview.com/?p=11909
Later on, when the state media carried a report that those who hung the flag wrongly or beyond a certain time-frame will be fined and even jailed, the number of flags on display declined appreciably.
Though the above scenario may sound exaggerated and even hilarious, the reality on the ground is not far away: we are a nation united by apathy and ruled by fear.
Taiwanese political commentator Li Ao once made an interesting, if not controversial observation: "Taiwanese are lecherous, Hong Kongers are cunning, Singaporeans are 'cute'" (a Taiwanese euphemism for 'stupid')
Li's remarks triggered a major public furore in Singapore with many writing to the press to lampoon him. However, few bother to reflect on his words to assess if there is any element of truth.
Read rest of article here:
http://temasekreview.com/?p=11909
