[Straits Times] Life in S'pore: Not so black and white

I absolutely agree with the title, though in terms of the content, I think the author missed out the other end of the spectrum: Singaporeans who are overly critical to the extent that they fail to recognize the historical context that necessitated some important political and policy decisions. Another point which is also not fully spelled out in the article is the weird configuration of our collective psyche in 'projecting' who we are differently when faced with different audiences. Hence on one hand we can have Singaporeans lamenting ministers' pay over kopi with their fellow country-mates, while on the other hand, comments like 'why don't you leave Singapore if you are so critical' from the same Singaporeans when communicating with a foreigner.


Life in S'pore: Not so black and white
By Philip Merry , FOR THE STRAITS TIMES

I AM British. I have lived in Singapore for 20 years and I think Singapore is one of the best places on earth to live.

Yet, when in conversation with Singaporean friends about what can be improved here, I am often told: 'Well, if you don't like it you can leave!'

I usually retort: 'I love Singapore. I have lived longer here than I have lived anywhere in my 59 years. But that doesn't mean I have to forget my critical faculty.'

This is similar to the reaction of Singaporeans to the recent praise from Canadian Eric Brooks, telling him : 'Well, if you like it so much why don't you become a citizen.'

What is it about Singaporeans that causes such black and white thinking? To me the sign of a great nation - and a great citizen - is pride in the country coupled with the ability to recognise what needs to be improved.

I am proud to be a British citizen but that does not blind me to my country's many faults. Both go hand in hand - it's not an 'either/or' matter.

Too often the debate in Singapore forces people into 'hate it' or 'love it' camps. That gets us nowhere. In fact, I would argue that my love of Singapore (or Britain) requires that I be critical of aspects of the country that I find difficult.

Having spent the last 20 years here teaching cross-cultural understanding to Singaporeans as they strive to work with other cultures, I feel I have a certain licence to speak - as a permanent resident and a friend, if not as a citizen.

My key message to Singaporeans is this: Look at what you love about Singapore and more often than not you will find that there is a shadow side to each one of its strengths. Above is my list of Singapore's pros and cons. What is yours?

Is Singapore a wonderful place to live? Yes, no doubt. Has it one of the best physical, social and cultural environments in the world? Yes, certainly.

But please Singaporeans, for the sake of the future of your great nation, don't lose the critical factor.

It is never 'either/or'.

The writer is CEO of the Global Leadership Academy.