GE 2011

It has been an exciting fight, with some hits and misses, and more importantly, the political awakening of sorts for many. A first in many areas such as allowing the use of new media in campaigning, younger candidates unveiled and contested in the election, reactions of epic proportion to certain keywords, and  opposition contesting out of their comfort zone.

The main news channels reported that based on their past experience, results could be announced anytime soon. And that phrase was repeated since 11pm yesterday night. But the results weren't announced till much much later, close to midnight. Past experience doesn't necessary guarantee future outcomes, do they? Many then resorted to twitter for latest unofficial updates.

The people of Singapore has voted, and PAP has won the majority and this is expected. Most would want to retain the continuity and stability in the economic progress of the country. However, this year, the voters had sent strong signals. Look at the votes. Many areas sees  ~40+ % of voters had voted for the opposition. It was  with surprise when one or two elected ministers said that they had learnt more about the needs of the citizens during the past 9 days. So, what happened to the past 5 years when they were in office? Think there is much to be reflected and to be improved upon.

It was also with great pity that the country lost Mr George Yeo, as WP has won Aljunied GRC. While Marine Parade gained Ms Tin Pei Ling. Mr Yeo, is a person who is not aversive to the new technologies and one of the few ministers who has been actively engaging the younger generations through the use of new media. He has served the country well, in his capacity as Foreign Affairs Minister. Thank you Mr George Yeo. (and am proud to have shook hands with you once before!)

Voters had indeed taken a leap of faith in Aljunied. The winds of change is here, and the change is now.

Singapore, Voting

The time is now. This opportunity only comes once, every 5 years. Vote wisely, or you shall live to repent! Or so, we have been told. In recent days, the word "repent" is widely reported, perhaps widely (mis)used.

What is politics? According to wiki, politics came from a Greek word πολιτικός and it means "of, for, or relating to citizens". It is a process where collective decisions are made. So, is politics then an Art or a Science of running the government? The wise will say, "It is both a Science and an Art." It needs to be regulated, methodological and yet, have heart. But the core of the matter remains the same. These decisions ought to be for the betterment of the citizen, and collectively agreed upon by the citizen. Who then can help citizens to voice out their needs? This decision now lies in your hands, Singaporeans. Come Saturday, you will have equal power in determining which party or who can best represent your 'voice' in Parliament.

It is with fascination, that the young have been actively following the election campaigns. Social media, I think, undeniably helped in this aspect. Political apathy? Perhaps not anymore. The first step to any change, is awareness.

Happy voting. Great power comes with greater responsibilities.