steph

2006-08-23T21:57:00.000+08:00

NATIONAL DAY RALLY- EMBRACE TALENT, TECHNOLOGY TO SECURE S’PORE’S FUTURE: PM (The Straits Times 21 August pg1)

There may be no ‘goodies’ for us this year however Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has prepared us to anticipate potential challenges and has shared ideas for Singapore to remain competitive.

It was heartening to hear that the government has given us opportunities to improve such as the aim of enabling every Singaporean to use IT and provide more job opportunities, which will allow us to improve our skills. In addition diverse or unconventional talents are also encouraged to develop or showcase their skills in Singapore to keep our country vibrant.

However Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has also highlighted the importance for us to give our own input. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has mentioned that we may be in demand in other countries but we must remember that fewer will be in our homeland, keeping it dynamic and beating. Hopefully such a point will cause our locals to stay and shape the society or help bring in new talent when overseas.

Finally we may have technology and talent however the unity in us is important as it binds us together to face challenges confidently and effectively. Terrorism is all over the place and we need to understand each other with faith to prevent distrust that will tear the nation apart.

Therefore although we do not have any monetary incentives, we do have a ‘goodie’ in knowing what is ahead of us, and the rally has given us an idea on how to tackle these challenges.

2006-08-12T20:59:00.000+08:00

SO WHO’S THE DOPE? ALL OF US, ACTUALLY (The Straits Times 12 August pgS15)

Floyd Landis was found to have abnormally high levels of testosterone in his bloodstream. Other riders have been disqualified before the race as they were linked to the blood-doping scandal.

But is it really possible to expect extraordinary results from people without some help from science? Many have been using artificial means just to be ordinary such as teeth whitening. Technology is readily available and for athletes to play by the strict rules wouldn’t it be self- sabotage?

So has competition actually raised our standards and allow improvement or has it just made us turn desperate and resort to man-made means? I believe the answer is neither black or white hence should we still be shocked at athletes borrowing some help from science?

2006-08-12T19:53:00.000+08:00

BRITAIN FOILS MAJOR BOMB PLOT (The Straits Times 11 August pg1)

Advanced technology has given birth to more advanced weapons like liquid bombs which terrorists manipulate.
THANK GOODNESS the bomb plot was foiled by Britain. Blowing up as many as 10 US-bound planes is seriously ruthless. This proves that all they need is to succeed once to wipe out numerous lives while we have to succeed all the time to avoid tragedy.

Ever since the attempt, security checks have stepped up tremendously such as the ban of bringing in liquids to the plane.

Although the alleged plan was not carried out, damages have occurred. Thousands of flights have been cancelled and shares in European airlines have fell.

I strongly believe that the terrorists are trying to stir up distrust amongst each other, as it will only weaken nations. People now live in fear and suspicion as suspects were British-born.

Right now anyone could be a terrorist and any substance could be a bomb. This world is filled with uncertainty and it is just disheartening. I just hope that the terrorists can wake up and see that whatever they are doing is pointless and if all they wanted was revenge, they have seriously gotten it and should end it here.

2006-08-12T18:20:00.000+08:00

VIOLENT GENE THEORY ABOUT MAORIS SPARKS CONTROVERSY (The Straits Times 10 August pg17)

A New Zealand scientist has claimed that Maoris have a ‘warrior’ gene, which makes them more prone to violent and criminal behaviour.

Since I have recently gone to New Zealand as a school trip and have watched them performing their traditions, this article has caught my attention.

Well the article has mentioned that it is a genetic reason to the over-representation of Maoris in violence statistics. Perhaps its true however I believe their violent nature should be controllable as the scientist said the influence is rather small.

In addition, although the ‘warrior’ gene is associated with violence, it does not mean Maoris are aggressive for the wrong reasons. All in all more research has to be done to come up with a substantiated conclusion to the reason for the Maoris being more prone to criminal behaviour.

2006-08-12T17:06:00.000+08:00

POLICE WANT DRUG ADDICTS HELPED, NOT ARRESTED (The Straits Times 10 August pg11)

Malaysia has shown us they truly care for the people by getting agencies to rehabilitate drug addicts instead of giving them the handcuffs. The police have decided to take the step of nipping the problem in the bud by tackling the larger task of going after traffickers and pushers.

I feel that the police deserve to be commended for having a clear aim and putting it into action. This is evident in the decline of heroin and cannabis users as effective measures have been taken to dismantle syndicates dealing in such drugs.

2006-08-12T17:05:00.000+08:00

A SOFT SPOT FOR SILK (Times 14 August pg60)

Silk is the original Chinese invention, which is tightly tied to the country’s identity.

It is disappointing to realize China’s silk has lost its quality to Italy only to lead the world in the quantity of it silk production. However from the article, it is relieving to hear that there is someone who is determined to restore Chinese silk back to its historical place, as it is part of its heritage.

From here I have realized that with globalization, the future generations are entrusted with the responsibility to keep our traditions alive instead of letting our culture be diluted.

This is important as it helps us unite as a country when we share our distinctive culture. In addition, Singapore is rather dependant on tourism for income. We must not let homogeneity get to us from Americanization, losing our local flavour and in turn our tourists.

2006-08-12T15:54:00.001+08:00

HOW TO KILL THE TIGER (Times 14 August pg24)

Economic growth along the border might help many escape from the poverty cycle, however it has also pushed hunters to new levels of greed.

As the ranks of affluent Chinese increase, so does the demand for tiger skins, ground tiger bones etc for use in traditional Chinese medicine. Although the Chinese demand may be driving a poaching boom, conservationists blame New Delhi for failing to protect their tigers.

I believe India has been too occupied in ensuring a constant economic growth thus fails to give proper attention to the poaching situation. This can be seen from its 30- year old conservation effort, which has been understaffed and underfunded.

Hopefully India can react faster and more effectively to this reality, as India should aim to attain all-roundedness.

2006-08-12T15:54:00.000+08:00

A RECURRING NIGHTMARE (Times 24 July pg32)

The terrorist attack in India reminded the world that a country with a dazzling economic boom is not immune to problems that threaten cities all over the world.

At first I thought the main aim of the terrorist attack was to break the financial backbone of India, however it did not stop there. Instead it is an attempt to drive a stake into good relations between Hindus and Muslims. In a way this try was a success. Many innocent Muslims have been suspected and harassed by the police, creating tension. Everything India has built will be destroyed not by the attacks but the accusations and suspicions.

On the contrary, we can look at the situation another way. After the attack, everybody came to help the victims such as donating blood regardless of race. This probably shows that despite the tension or discrimination, the people have recognized themselves as a nation.

From the incident, Singapore can learn an important lesson. We may be different in terms of race and religion. We may step on each other’s toes unintentionally however it is vital to recognize ourselves as one to face challenges ahead of us. I dread the day where we start pointing fingers at each other for the cause of a potential attack.

2006-08-12T15:52:00.000+08:00

SRI LANKA’S WATER WAR (The Straits Times 9 August 2006 pg6)

The Tamil rebels released water from a disputed reservoir in Sri Lanka, ending a 19-day blockade that had sparked the worst fighting between the government troops and guerillas in four years.

It is gloomy to see the deep mistrust between the two divides in the country. Thank goodness Singapore treats racial harmony importantly especially with terrorism going on. We have to believe in ‘one people’ to face challenges which might divide us where we might start pointing fingers such as bombings.

Hopefully LTTE and the government can resolve their problem, as it does not bring any benefit to the country but injuries to the people and the economy.

2006-08-10T13:08:00.000+08:00

ECONOMY SHONE IN FIRST HALF, ROWING 9.4% (The Straits Times 9 August 2006 pg1)

It is heartening to know our efforts have been paid off, having heard from our Prime Minister Lee Hsien Long that our economy has grown by 9.4 percent in the first half of the year.

The government has created many job opportunities from the service sector and has further developed our manufacturing sector. With such efforts put in how can we not be proud to have such capable leaders. I believe this would put the PAP in a more favourable light.

However we definitely did our part as after all it takes two hands to clap. I have seen people I know going for courses to bring their skills to a further step ensuring we remain competitive in this global competition.

Although we have come this far, we must not be complacent of our achievements. Instead we have to constantly improve and anticipate potential threats to our growth such as bird flu, terrorism and trade protectionism. Only than can we remain in the cycle of prosperity.

2006-08-09T14:23:00.000+08:00

THE WORST OF FRIENDS (Time 24 July pg36)

North Korea's provocative missile tests have strained the patience of their longtime ally China.

Eversince China's economy has been modernized and prospered, the longtime alliance has been increasingly strained.

Not much effective actions have been done as neither countries want to lose out. China worries draconian sanctions such as cutting off fuel shipments will trigger the regime's collapse. Whereas Korea is afraid to lose China as its largest trading partner. Thus the missile tests situation is rather stagnant.

I fear that the longer it takes to find a deterrent for North Korean provocations will lead Kim to be bolder in his stunts.

This tension reminds us the importance of flexibilty to enable good diplomacy. we must also learn not to take advantage of our political relationships with other countries.

2006-07-18T00:25:00.000+08:00

WHAT YOUR DOODLES SAY ABOUT YOU Reader's Digest July 2006

Who would have ever thought that doodles could actually say about a person? Doodles actually relieve stress at times. Doodling actually reflects your state of mind. Solutions may even come to you when doodling. Who knew that drawing vehicles would mean wanting a holiday, arrows and stars would mean ambitions and no doodles would mean precise and direct. Well usually I would draw pictures of my friends!! I wonder what that means?? I love my friends??

2006-07-18T00:22:00.001+08:00

1 in 4 secondary school students bullied The Straits Times July 16 2006

Many students have been bullied and some of those who have been bullied become bullies themselves. Some said they became bullies as they were bullied before. They feel that since people were once unkind to them they should treat others the same. It is rather sad to see that students who get bullied are the ones who are becoming bullies!! Since they were bullied and people were unkind to them once why would they want to be unkind to other people??? Bullying usually starts small and if one does not curb it, it might become a big problem!! Action has to be taken!!

2006-07-18T00:22:00.000+08:00

DE-FAT YOUR CATS Reader’s digest July 2006

Cats now days are becoming fat and inactive. If you are not able to feel your cats’ ribs that would mean that your cat is not very healthy. Then you have to ensure your cat plays more, moves more and one should watch how much it eats. The cat might die if it is not healthy. Now day’s owners do not really know whether their cat is healthy or not. I feel that owners should give their cats regular check ups!!!

2006-07-17T21:02:00.000+08:00

LIGHTEN UP WITH YOGA Reader’s Digest July 2006

Yoga can actually relieve stress, build muscles and help you to lose weight!!
Overweight people lost weight after taking up yoga! Yoga makes one eat less and makes one aware of your body. I never knew that yoga relieves stress and helps you lose weight. I never knew that yoga would relieve one’s stress and ensure one eats lesser! With all the stress in school indeed I would need to join yoga!

2006-06-03T01:30:00.000+08:00

WHY THE DA VINCI CODE MOVIE WON'T BE GETTING MY $9.50 (Straits Times 2 June pg39)

Regarding the banning of the movie, I have to say I am rather glad the government has decided to allow the movie to be viewed in Singapore. Much as I feel as a Catholic the movie should not be shown to prevent faiths to be put through such a test as we are not ready, as a civilian I believe people who do not practise our faith deserve the right to watch it if they want to.

The government has shown that they have not forgotten Singapore is multi religious thus knows that the movie cannot be banned here as discontent would rise. In addition the government should be applauded to rate is as NC16. This is because viewers above this age would most likely be able to think for themselves whether they should watch it knowing the consequences more clearly. Thus those against it should just uphold tolerance and acceptance and in out own lifestyle choices, could we then make gestures of protest.

2006-06-01T15:41:00.000+08:00

FUNNY MONEY (Straits Times 1 June pgH1)

There are increasing counterfeit cases however it is not rampant and there is no involvement of syndicates. Thank goodness. With syndicates, things will be messier and complicated.

Oh it was really initiative and alert for the manager to have taken note of the fake note. I believe many of us would just shrug it off assuming we are thinking too much. With more of us being proactive we would certainly help our country curb such acts.

The government has also helped by making it more difficult to create counterfeit notes by including more special features. Thus I believe it takes two hands to clap where our society and government have to work together to create a better country.

2006-06-01T00:38:00.000+08:00

BATTLE OF THE CASTES (Time 1 June pg14)

It is good to have the rigid caste system abolished ever since India's independance. The country would be able to develop more effectively when important roles are allocated to people due to their merits and not by caste.

However university places are still reserved for those at the higher castes. I guess much as the government is doinf its utmost, the caste system will still be there as it has been around since soo many years ago. Perhaps what the government is trying to do is to allow the new generations to start anew and be able to mix around. By then the caste system will not be much of a problem. hopefully.

2006-05-21T22:37:00.000+08:00

UNDERSTANDING MUMS AND DAUGHTERS (The Sunday Times 21 May pg32)

A mother and daughter relationship is very special and different from any other. However it takes effort for that bond to be made closer. Most mothers tend to have the mentality that they need to know everything that is goings in their daughters' lives to get closer to their them. On the other hand most daughters do not tell everything to their mothers. Firstly it is impossible to totally come clean to anyone and there is a possibility for not wanting their mothers to worry unneccesarily much as not telling will not make much of a difference. However the point is no matter what there will be secrets and mothers have to understand that this is part of growing up. Daughters and sons in fact should also learn to open up more to their parents to ensure them that we want them involved in our lives.

2006-05-21T17:45:00.000+08:00

CHINA'S THREE GORGES DAM COMPLETED (The Sunday Times 21 May pg1)

China's dam project is one of the biggest in the world. However it's usefulness is still in question. China's economy and energy usage is growing at a breakneck pace and the amount of electricity produced by the dam will only meet two percent of the country's energy needs by 2010. In addition the dam will slow down the river's flow causing erosion problems. Most worrisome, such an enormous dam might be a terrorist target. Hopefully the government will be able to find a solution to the adverse effects the dam will cause especially with sacrifices that have been made such as villagers forced to be relocated and a hundred deaths caused by building the dam. But there are its benefits, definitely more job opportunities. Other than that we will only know what will happen next when the dam is in full operation at 2008.

2006-05-14T01:11:00.000+08:00

MAD ABOUT CARS (Straits Times 13 May pgS2)

Singapore is no longer the most expensive place in the world to buy a car. However i believe it is just a ploy for the government to earn more money. With more people driving cars, more road tax can be earned. Thus I firmly believe that maintaining cars are still expensive.

I have always thought the government was trying to curb the number of cars present in Singapore to avoid further jams and to protect the environment.Right now I am not too sure perhaps right now the government is focusing on improving people's effiency and standard of living.

Therefore I am not too concerned about COE but the maintainence costs. As for the enviroment, I'm am sure the government would find a cleaner fuel- natural gas.

2006-05-14T00:56:00.000+08:00

ONLINE TEEN-TILLATIONS (Straits Times 13 May pgH12)

Online sex once a domain of adults are now increasingly engaged by teens. Although I understand many teens do it due to curiousity or for some harmless fun, there is a high possibilty that they will get into trouble. Paedophiles have been experienced long enough and would know how to crack such tough shells.

From the article I have read that online sex is how some people regain their self esteem as they are able to have any image online. It will only further aggravated their situation as they are hoping to be someone else and will not make use of the time to appreciate themselves.

Teens might also become addicted to online sex probably due to the thrills that it provides. This is really dangerous and will only instill unhealthy thoughts in young minds.

2006-05-10T00:33:00.000+08:00

HOLLYWOOD: THE REVENGE (New Scientist 11 March pg42)

Many companies are coming up with new ways to stop the increase of piracy. With advanced technology, programs have been installed in many pirated dvds and when inserted into dvd players, crashes will occur. Such an action will then deter a person from owning a pirated dvd.

In my opinion, piracy should be stopped as it discourages the creativity in the artistes. The decrease in sales of their dvds due to cheaper pirated ones would cause harm to their jobs.

In addition dvds are now much more affordable and we should be willing to pay a little more to appreciate the effort the artistes put in. As a result they would be motivated to create more quality films. This is because if may were to accept pirated goods, film's quality would be compromised to achieve a cheaper price.

2006-05-08T12:06:00.000+08:00

TEACHING CHILDREN GOOD MONEY HABITS WILL HELP IN THE LONG RUN (Straits Times 8 May pg33)

Children should be taught the value of money at an early age as that is when they are most susceptible to their parents' influence. Teaching children the value of money is important as they will grow to become more sensible. One example is when children are taught to save up their allowance to buy something they really want. This teaches them patience as they will learn to curb their unneccessary wants for a certain cause. Children will also grow to learn the difference between neccessities and what is not required.

However is a tendancy for parents to offer monetary rewards for certain achievements of the child such as achievements for tests. Although this may motivate the children to study for the wrong reasons, they have learnt that money is earned through hard work and will thus spend more carefully. Good money habits are essential for the future and its important that these habits are instilled in them from a young age to put them in good stead for their futures.

2006-04-30T18:11:00.000+08:00

BATTLE OF WILLS (Time 1 May pg18)

With the fast paced development taking place globally, countries are making great afforts to remain competitive.

This can be seen in Nepal. Nepalese are now protesting for democracy knowing that it will improve the country's well-being and are trying their hardest to get rid of the constituitional king, who is seen arrogant and cold, despite knowing that their lives are at risk.

Although the king has decided to nominate a Prime Minister, no laws have been enforced to prevent him from siezing power again. It is clearly seen that he is more concerned of himself than the country and I believe the civilians are aware of it too as I have read that only when there is real democracy will there be no protests.

Many have also died during the demonstrations and all the king did was to compliment the security forces for dealing with the demonstrators effectively.. COLD

Go Nepal people!!! :)) all the way for democracy

2006-04-30T14:33:00.000+08:00

WHAT SORT OF PARTY IS THE WP? (Straits Times 30 April pg 6)

It is the second time Mr Gomez messed up and I seriously feel that this is going to affect the votes much as Mr Low Thia Kiang, the Worker's Party chief do not think so. This is because Mr Gomez mistake did not occur once and it's quite clearly seen that they intended to hide the issue till the PAP kept pressing them. To me it just shows the transparency and responsibility they have. Although it was an innocent mistake an individual made. As a politician, one should be more careful with his actions, bearing in thought that there will be consequences which will not only affect himself but his group.

2006-04-22T01:14:00.000+08:00

CHINA AND U.S. THE GREAT DIVIDE (Time 24 April pg18)

One of the world's most important bilateral relationship, China and America. After previous clashes with each other such as their ideologies, it is heartening to see that they are putting effort in forming diplomatic ties with each other.

I believe that the reason behind this diplomacy is for economic benefits. America will benefit as China's economy has boomed and the nation's importance on the world stage has dramatically expanded. China will definitely benefit from this diplomacy as U.S. is still the world's undisputed superpower, much as this gap is narrowing.

Of course the other reason for the diplomacy is for political benefits. Both are big countries, with manpower and technology. Having diplomacy will prevent them from going against each other as often and solving their disagreements more peacefully leading to more stability in the countries. Both countries can also work together to solve common problems.

My father once mentioned that friends are of convenience, I guess that applies to countries as well.

2006-04-22T00:13:00.000+08:00

JC STUDENT STUDENT JUMPED TO DEATH DUE HIS PENIS TOO SMALL (Straits Times 20 April pg1)

I find it upsetting that a JC student commited suicide due to such inferiority complex. However like what Mr Praeman said, there must have been other causes as it's quite impossible for pepople to commit suicide based on one reason. I guess that issue might have just tip the scale way too much to the extent of the suicide.

Haha it was my mother who showed me the article, rushing to my room and exclaiming the reason for the suicide and told me not to commit suicide. Haha..no problem..

It is quite alarming to learn that such an incident will happen in Singapore. Thank goodness it is an isolated case. But I do know friends with suicidal thoughts and I feel that talks should be given to teach us to love ourselves more as not everybody have families they can open up to. Although such talks can be boring and may seem absoutely unnecessary, I believe that there are those who might just need these talks in order to give themselves another chance.

All in all suicide is never the solution, instead it brings more problems like causing pain to the families who lost their member due to suicide. Regarding the student commiting suicide due to his small penis is seriously unnecessary and proves him to be less of a man he should be, not being able to face his problems bravely.

2006-04-14T19:12:00.000+08:00

IS IT A BOLD MOVE OR A CAVE-IN? (Straits Times 14 April pg22)

I am relieved that the Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi has scrapped the bridge project. I certainly do not think it is a cave-in. It took alot of courage to come to a hard decision like this. I also admire the Prime Minister for listening to his people. Although they may not know the full story, it still shows that he is concerned about his people's views.

The Prime Minster also considered the pros and cons carefully knowing that it is an expensive project and relationships with Singapore will be hurt. Even if the bridge is built, there are many conditions imposed by Singapore thus I personally do not think there will be much benefits for Malaysia. The conflict between Malaysia and Singapore is seriously not needed since we are located so close to each other. Therefore the decision was a careful one as it involved many considerations.

2006-04-14T18:20:00.000+08:00

IS IT HARDER FOR POOR KIDS TO SHINE IN SCHOOL? (Straits Times 14 April pg47)

Children who are living in poverty might face a more difficult time shining in school. However that does not mean that they will not be able to excel. I have known friends who are financially challenged abd yet they can top their classes. Perhaps this fuels their determaination to study hard to escape that cycle of poverty. I am sure that as long poor kids to not end up in self-pity, they can make it. Plus the government is looking into providing more educational opportunities for them such as by setting up the Opportunity Fund to pay for little extras like school trips and computers.

2006-04-07T22:59:00.000+08:00

LINK BETWEEN FISH AND LAND ANIMALS FOUND (Straits Times 7 April pg W22)

It is really exciting to find that there is a link between fish and land animals. With so many questions nature has in store for us, it is great to have answered one more of them. I wonder if there are any links between animals and plants.. I do not really think so though, but it would have been really cool. With the findings of such evolutions, I cannot help wonder if Darwin's theory is true. But it challenges the point of God creating mankind.. ok i better not think about this anymore..

2006-04-07T22:20:00.000+08:00

PAP'S SEARCH GOES BEYOND THE HIGH-FLYING SCHOLAR TYPES (Straits Times 6 April pg H5)

It is good to know that PAP is looking for candidates who are capable of leading the country even if he or she is not scholarly. Much as education is very important but if it is going to be the main factor, many potentials will remain untapped. This is especially for those who have failed their English. This is because I have friends who failed their O'level English but scored either straight As or high Bs. I find it such a pity as they are really capable in many ways. I believe that PAP should continue to find new people who may not be scholarly but possess a positive attitude, EQ and the ability to deliver what is promised. In addition with a diversity of people's backgrounds and upbringing, it is more likely they will have an easier time helping our people live better lives.

2006-04-03T00:39:00.000+08:00

HE FINDS NO JOY FROM $500K ‘BIRTHDAY GIFT’ (Straits Times 1 April)

I am saddened that Mr. Chong had been gotten into a motorcycle accident 3 years ago and is unable to walk and talk now. His girlfriend had also left him due to the state he is in. It did not help when I realized his girlfriend broke off with him due to the accident. This shows that she does not have true love for him, unable to stand by him when he needed her. Though he is recieving much money he does not have much happiness right now. If he had not been reckless he would not have gotten into an accident and would have been in a good state right now. All in all i feel that money really cannot by happiness.

2006-04-03T00:04:00.000+08:00

A ROBOT IN THE KITCHEN (Reader's Digest April 2006)

Technological advancements have increased greatly. Scientists are presently researching on devices that would help very much in kitchens. In another few years robots would be able to do all jobs in houses. Kitchen appliances would become more sophisticated and easier for the owner. I feel that with these advancements it would be much easier for us. As technologies increase our work load decreases and every individual would indeed like that. Even I would want my work load to decrease! But if our work loads decreases we would become lazy and this would be unhealthy. All in all I feel that we should not be fully dependent on technologies.

2006-03-25T19:12:00.000+08:00

'FLEXI' CLASSROOMS FOR 13 SCHOOLS PICKED FOR UPGRADING (Straits Times 25March pg H11)

Thirteen schools have been picked for upgrading. By 2012, fifty to fifty-five other schools will also undergo upgrading. The total cost of the project is four billion dollars. From here one could tell that the government has placed alot of importance on education, hoping that students will be able to study better in a more conducive enviroment. With seventeen million dollars spent per school and much effort put into the planning, I am certain students will have an easier time concentrating on their studies.

2006-03-25T16:29:00.000+08:00

AFGHAN CLERICS DEMAND DEATH FOR CONVERT (Straits Times 25 March pg 35)

What happened to religious tolerance? Shouldn't there be an international law where religious conversions are allowed? I am sure people will not convert frivolously so shouldn't conversions be tolerated?

I feel so much sympathy for Rahman, the man who has converted from Islam to Christianity, whom many wants dead. Hopefully his life will be spared and recent conflicts between the Islamic world and the West will be resolved.

2006-03-12T18:38:00.000+08:00

NONOI'S MUM A LIFE FULL OF TROUBLE (Sunday times 12 March pg 14)

I did not pay attention to Nonoi's mother and failed to realize the difficult times she went through till I read this article. Perhaps I was too caught up feeling sorry for Nonoi's death.

Nonoi's mother Madam Mastura was a school dropout, married twice, was jailed and mothered three children. All these before she was old enough to vote! To think she has to suffer the blow of losing Nonoi. I hope she will have the strength to live life fruitfully.

After reading the article, I cannot help but reflect on myself. I am lucky that I am able to live comfortably to this stage and as to having a bright future, I must remind myself to study hard and bring with me the values my family has taught me.

2006-03-11T17:36:00.000+08:00

NEIGHBOURHOOD PATROL HELPED SEND CAT KILLER TO JAIL (Straits times 11 March pg 12)

It is a relief that the cat killer has been caught and dealed with. It was really gruesome when I read that dead cats were seen along the cat killer's corridor. How can one be such a sadist?

However it was uplifting when I read that it was the residents who took the initiative to track the culprit down. Although it took five months of night patrolling, the hard work finally paid off.

Hopefully such a case will not be repeated and the cat on the article is so cute!!

2006-03-05T01:27:00.000+08:00

TEMASEK STRENGHTENS PRESCENCE IN CHINA WITH $7B INVESTMENTS (Straits Times 4 March pg S31)

Temasek Holdings, the biggest and richest investment company in Singapore! Lately the company has been in the newspapers unlike the previous years. I wonder why..

I am glad that Singapore has decided to invest in China significantly instead of joining the competition having observed the long term prospects of the country. By doing so, Singapore is strengthening its foothold in the Asia economy. At the same time, bilateral ties between Singapore and China will be brought closer.

This really sets me thinking. We have really good foward-thinking leaders in Singapore, always striving to improve the country. I seriously hope that the we the future leaders can carry on with the race and do Singapore proud. Yea~ :))

2006-03-05T00:35:00.000+08:00

SEX CRIMINALS: IS THERE ENOUGH INTERCHANGE BETWEEN ARMS OF LAW? (Straits Times 4March pg S8)

Having read the article I have to say I am quite disturbed to have also realized that rapists are usually caught only after a few rape attacks. However I am relieved to know that the courts decided to put incorrigible rapists away for a really long time. This is because there have been a few rapists when released, still continuing with the attacks!! It is really scary as it is also happening in HDB areas and not just secluded places like alleys, as more people will be under the risk of being raped! If only I knew where those sex crimianals live, this way I can avoid them. It is not that I am not giving them a chance to repent by trusting them, but it is just too risky for me. I am very sure many will agree with me:) Well, hopefully there will be less molestation or rape cases as the victims will be greatly traumatized.

2006-02-22T16:25:00.000+08:00

JAPANESE SCHOOL'S SPECIAL LESSONS (Straits times 22 Feb Page 22)

Teaching Japanese students in Singapore, the history of the World War 2 and the role played by the Japanese can be difficult and delicate.

Initially as I was reading the article, I had thought it was our local government who made it compulsory for the Japanese students to learn about the impact of the Japanese Occupation comprehensively. To my surprise, it was the Japanese teachers who had initiated the covering of Singapore and Japanese wartime history to much detail, to the extent of teaching the students about Singapore geography and culture to its economics.

On top of that, the teachers made great efforts to use materials that taught the students about the brutal realities of the war which is a stark contrast to the official textbooks used in Japan. Compared to the materials not officially endorsed by the Japanese education authorities, the war and subsequent Occupation in China, Korea and Southeast Asia only took up a modest two hundred pages in an official history textbook with a careful tone. As expected, the wartime events were stated as a matter-of-factly.

In addition, as I read that students in Japan will learn about the horrors of the atomic bomb denotations in Nagasaki and Hiroshima without understanding why the Americans were pressurized to do so. I cannot help but worry that the Japanese youths will not be able to understand the tension between his or her country and the victimized countries.

Being able to understand that it is difficult to present the brutal side of our forefathers to the younger generation, I would really like to thank the Japanese schools which have gave the Japanese students the privilege to be much more aware about the relations between its home country and China or South Korea.

Thus I really hope that this privilege would also be given to more Japanese citizens, not just in Singapore. :)