Singapore is one of the asymmetries and anomalies in the history of nations. Small and scarce of natural resources including human capital, we should not have survived, let alone survive well. To remain relevant in the global value chains, Singapore must be the nexus between the developing countries in Asia and the advanced economies of the West. Singapore must be a meaningful gateway and passage way for the Chinese and Indian economies. Extending our economy by building townships, eco-cities, industrial parks in foreign lands are like sowing the seeds of growth on foreign soil. When such models become successful, it will pull along Singapore’s economy. Singapore’s government will need to focus on developing local enterprises into specific clusters for success – like research and development in genome, bio-chemical and pharmaceutical products or high end manufacturing in nanotechnology or in building Singapore into the Great Entertainment Paradise – a Service Haven.
With our growth, Singapore still need to hold fast to the precept that no one should be left behind with our progress and it should not be a tale of two worlds – the rich and poor worlds. Poorer Singaporeans should share the success of the country with re-distribution of economic benefits in the form of GST rebates, utility subsidies, medical coverage and education for the poor. Workfare is one good way for the poorer segment to gain some pay re-balancing. Always Singaporeans First!
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