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  Channel NewsAsia 4 Dec 06
Engaging younger Singaporeans with fresh ideas is a challenge for new MPs
By Dominique Loh

SINGAPORE: Engaging younger Singaporeans with new and fresh ideas is a challenge for new members of parliament.

Several of them have expressed this concern as the country moves forward in an ever-changing global landscape.

New MP Hri Kumar likened some young Singaporeans' political inclinations to their desire for fast cars. "When I was younger, I wanted a sports car to drive fast, to feel the wind in my hair. Never mind the dangers or that such cars are notoriously unreliable or the huge fuel and maintenance bills that will inevitably follow," said the MP of Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC.

But he also believes that these Singaporeans will mature and choose a more sensible choice later in life. "Our party is more like a multi-purpose vehicle. It may not appeal to the youth, but when they grow up, get married, have children and take on other responsibilities, their outlook and priorities change. They will ditch their sports cars and buy MPVs."

But even with a reliable MPV-like government, Josephine Teo, also an MP of Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, noted that it cannot please everyone, especially those who feel left out - like some middle income Singaporeans who have expressed their frustrations.

"Such feelings are understandable. Increasingly, when the government does more for one group, we risk another group feeling that they are neglected. We run the risk of the feelings evolving into a sense of envy and eventually for the envy to express itself as dissatisfaction towards the party. It is a downward spiral we must carefully avoid."

And to prevent that from happening, Ms Teo believes it is crucial for party members to keep their ears close to the ground and hearts close to the people.

Another method this post-65 generation of MPs have tried is through blogging on the Internet. Although there are some detractors, most have given constructive feedback on policies and their main concern was for a brighter future for Singapore. - CNA/so
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