Onward, Singapore!

What key messages did you take away from the Prime Minister's National Day Rally on Sunday? Which of the policy changes outlined by PM Lee strike you as most important or urgent, and why?Bek Kheng LeeManaging DirectorAzen Manufacturing Pte LtdHAVING been a dialysis patient for the last 14 years, it saddens me to see many cases of needy patients not obtaining optimal treatment for their kidney failure, simply because they are not covered by medical insurance and cannot afford the high medical costs of regular dialysis and medication.mini storageAs such, the new MediShield Life for universal coverage certainly strikes me as the most important. Unlike those offered by private commercial companies, MediShield Life serves to genuinely help those who need it most, and does not discriminate against the elderly or those with pre-existing illnesses.Singaporeans who suffer from chronic illnesses and who do not enjoy existing coverage will certainly be very thankful to the Singapore government for this policy change.Tan Chong HuatManaging PartnerRHTLaw Taylor WessingTHE key message to me was a willing and able government that is taking charge of the issues affecting Singaporeans, and one which wants to stay in power and win subsequent elections. This augurs well for Singapore.The most urgent policy change to me is the overall strategic shift in providing for Singaporeans who are in need and taking steps to ensure an inclusive society. A government of the people for the people is the PAP government I have come to know. With professed egalitarianism and compassion, the next phase of nation-building may have just begun.Ray FergusonChief ExecutiveStandard Chartered Bank SingaporeFROM a business and investment standpoint, the long-term plans outlined by Prime Minister Lee to retain Singapore's edge as a global port and aviation hub are viewed positively as it demonstrates the government's commitment and vision for the future.Singapore's strengths lie in its unparalleled connectivity to Asia and the rest of the world, and it is particularly well placed as a ''Global-Asia hub''. Plans to double capacity of the airport and build a new port hub are major milestones requiring significant investments, which we believe will maintain Singapore's competitiveness and attractiveness to businesses and investors looking to grow in the region.Dr Lee Kheng HockPresidentThe College of Family Physicians SingaporeTHE changes to our healthcare system address the evolving needs of all strata of society, particularly the elderly, those with pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, and the under-served segments of the population. MediShield Life has attracted the most attention because of concerns over rising healthcare costs across all life stages. However, it is the changes to the Medisave outpatient policy that will have the most impact in the short to medium term by lessening the financial burden of those in the ''sandwiched class''.Our College welcomes the revised policies which effectively tackle healthcare challenges for Singaporeans.Yeoh Oon JinExecutive ChairmanPwC SingaporeTHE Prime Minister's message was on three vital areas (housing, healthcare and education) that affect all Singaporeans. Our government is to be applauded for not only opening avenues for conversations but reacting swiftly with constructive changes. The initiatives in each of these are key to providing better access to three basic necessities. On this basis I cannot rank which part of PM Lee's message I prefer.Notably, in the area of housing, it is encouraging to see that help will be provided to the lower and middle-income families to support their upgrading to larger units where possible, making three and four-bedroom flats more affordable. It is also good that the suggested policy changes are not expected to affect the resale market, as this would help with the preservation of current property values.With regard to healthcare, it is timely to consider the options of expanding Medishield coverage, extending CHAS to everyone in low-income households and exploring the possibility of allowing Medisave to be used for outpatient treatments in a bid to address concerns of rising healthcare costs. However, while Medishield Life is expected to benefit everyone universally (regardless of age, health or economic status), it is important to ensure that the new scheme provides for wider coverage with affordable premiums, particularly for those who will not qualify for any subsidy, or else it could create a difficult environment for the average Singaporean - more so if their individual taxes are raised in future under an inflationary environment.While sceptics will say the proof of this pudding is in the execution, I believe more conversations as a nation will also help to tweak the multitude of changes from this National Day Rally and maybe more. My favourite line from the PM is his repeated request for us to ''have faith''.Tan Hak LehChief Executive OfficerAIA SingaporeTHE Prime Minister's speech at the National Day Rally 2013 was well-balanced, taking a long-term perspective to address national issues of an ageing population and increasing cost of healthcare globally, while responding directly to real everyday concerns of Singaporeans on the issues of housing, healthcare and education. Announcements on initiatives in healthcare are of great importance, given their immediate and future implications for members of the community.AIA Singapore supports efforts to bridge the under-insurance gap among families and we are aligned with the government's approach of investing in the health of our nation. In all, we are encouraged by the numerous efforts which will strengthen the family unit, and AIA Singapore will continue to work in close collaboration with the authorities to achieve this.Kelly KuhnPresident, Asia PacificCarlson Wagonlit TravelWE applaud the Prime Minister on his bold vision to sustain Singapore's growth and ensure it remains a vibrant hub in South-east Asia. The long-term strategies laid out for development across key sectors will help instil further confidence in Singapore's future among the business community.As we anticipate growth in the travel industry over the next few years, developments in infrastructure _ particularly the upgrades currently underway at Changi Airport, such as the Project Jewel and the opening of additional terminals _ will play an important role in strengthening Singapore's position as a destination of choice for both business and leisure travellers.Jack ChuaCEOERA Singapore''THE government is listening to the people, and not just listening but also trying to do something about the issues that are of utmost concern to Singaporeans.'' This is what I thought after listening to PM Lee's National Day Rally speech. I was especially heartened by the revamps in MediShield to include the elderly and those with pre-existing illnesses because really, considering their age, increased health risk due to medical history and increasing medical costs, they are the ones who need such a safety net the most.This is especially good news for those who cannot afford to take out private health insurance for themselves or their loved ones. The inclusion will help alleviate considerable financial burden off their caregivers, and give both insured and their families peace of mind knowing that there is MediShield to fall back on should the insured require any expensive medical treatments.I only wish that the extra premiums imposed on them will also be reasonable and minimal, else it will be meaningless and will defeat the whole purpose of the scheme.Florence NgManaging Director, FounderStraits Talent Pte LtdIT is heartening to see that the government has taken on board feedback from the ground through the year-long National Conversation. The plans for long-term infrastructure improvement (relocation of the Paya Lebar airbase and the container port operations) so as to free up more usable land for future development is an excellent one, and will go a long way to ensure our competitiveness amid an ever-evolving global economy. The forthcoming changes to our education system are also a move in the right direction. This is two-fold: it reinforces our meritocracy model as well as the development of our future generation to prepare them for the challenges ahead.I applaud the move to tweak the P1 registration system to ensure a more even distribution of student profiles across our school network. This will motivate greater parent and community volunteerism. The shift towards a more holistic performance appraisal of children is also welcome, and is especially important in our drive towards character building and cultivating a more caring community and nation. All in all, an excellent road-map for the way forward.Sam YapGroup Executive Chairman and Co-FounderHTwo Investment Holdings Pte LtdI WAS excited over the various strategic moves and initiatives announced by the PM in his National Day Rally speech. Bold ideas on infrastructure, public housing, healthcare and education were presented. I agree that collective efforts from all sectors would be required to ensure the success of these plans.The plan envisioned by the PM is for the future of our nation to stay strong and relevant with the changes and developments coming ahead of us. The many policy shifts will benefit a lot of people in the community, whether it is in healthcare, education or public housing. As a company providing educational services to children and families, we feel that new initiatives and policies in education will be most impactful and relevant to many people. They reflect the government's acceptance of feedback and views on this topic through the OSC with reasonable steps taken to ensure some ''blocks'' are removed.I also applaud the announcement of more childcare centres for young children to support the many young families in Singapore. As an organisation, our company will endeavour to support these initiatives.Michael DiGeorgeManaging DirectorARINC Asia Pacific DivisionBEING an aviation technology and solutions provider, ARINC is most excited about the expansion plans for Changi Airport. With passenger figures rising, we see airports in the region investing to keep up by equipping themselves with the right technology and building new terminals. Airports face a variety of challenges, including managing the increasing cost of infrastructure and processing large volumes of passengers efficiently. To resolve these, airports are looking for other sources of revenue. Changi Airport, already one of the world's best, is rightfully on track to becoming the ''airport of the future'' and retaining its position as a key aviation hub in the region. The unveiling of ''Project Jewel'' underpins the evolvement of airports into ''aeropolises''.In time to come, revenue from these ''aeropolises'' would undoubtedly contribute a substantial amount to a country's economy. More importantly, this represents a radical transformation of the passenger experience at the airport, making it enjoyable, fast and seamless. The airport of the future, then, truly becomes an area in which one can live, work and play.Max LohCountry Managing PartnerErnst & Young LLPTHE message that Singapore must be future-ready was clear and present. It is imperative that we anchor our position in a globalised economy while building an inclusive country that brings out the best in our people without leaving anyone behind.We need courage and foresight to change and seize opportunities, and a collective faith that the risks and pain that the current generation bears will reap a better world that future generations deserve. And most importantly, every Singaporean individual, in their own way, should and must be a steward of our collective future. Corporates can contribute too, and it is this belief in our role that we at EY have ''Building a better working world'' as our new organisational purpose.Seah Kian PengCEO (Singapore)NTUC Fairprice Co-operative LtdTHE Prime Minister's National Day Rally outlined the strategic shift in our approach towards nation building, aligning the efforts of the individual, the community and the government. It is an encouraging message that is underpinned by the themes of determination to overcome adversities to succeed in life and dedication in giving back to society to enhance our lives and those of our next generation.More importantly, PM's speech puts together in a big picture what the government has been trying to do in various smaller steps: fix the current capacity crunch, while planning and implementing changes for the long term; and all with the big picture in mind. This is not an easy feat because there is always the pressure to take care of the short term, the squeaky wheel, while leaving the longer-term problems for the next generation. But PM and this government are not like that.And this is the one major impression that has remained from this rally _ true, there is an increase in social spending, and the government is providing more welfare, but there is also some market and financial discipline. All these additional benefits must ultimately be paid for, and I am glad that the PM did not shy away from making these hard announcements. As PM said, long-term planning is an ''act of faith'', based on a belief that we will be here for the long term. And the only way we can do this, is to continue to make the right choices, no matter how hard they are.Mohamed IsmailCEOPropnex Realty Pte LtdI AM heartened that PM Lee has given the clear direction and assurance that BTO prices will not only remain affordable for generations to come, but that it will also remain an asset class for Singaporeans to benefit from in the long term.This is despite the many suggestions during the OSC about tweaking the policies such as lowering lease period, selling back to HDB, increasing the MOP and reducing the prices of HDB properties, etc.PM Lee's new housing policies have already benefited many, as highlighted at the rally that even the bottom 20 per cent of home-owners can be equity-rich by up to $200,000 when they sell their HDB properties.The wider provision of subsidies will also certainly benefit many who need them at the entry level, as it will allow everyone an opportunity towards home ownership.Lim Soon HockManaging DirectorPlan-B Icag Pte LtdTHE key message from PM is clear: the government is not only listening but is taking concrete action to tackle many of the long-standing problems raised by our citizenry in relation to healthcare, housing and education. The government wants to strike out a new social compact with our citizenry, but everyone must play his or her part in the new Singapore, going forward.The policy shift in healthcare as outlined by PM Lee, in particular Medishield Life, to cover everyone irrespective of age or health condition, is most important and urgent, given our ageing population. In relation to this, to keep premiums affordable, the government will have to introduce other intiatives, such as telehealth services, in the new continuum of healthcare, from acute care in hospitals to stepped-down care in community hospitals to home care. There is definitely a role which telehealth services can play in triage management and chronic disease management to right site healthcare, through greater personal ownership, and as a consequence to keep healthcare costs as low and as affordable as possible.David SiahCountry ManagerTrend Micro SingaporeSINGAPORE has always lived up to the values of a forward-thinking nation, growing from strength to strength over the years. As a top financial and business district and a regional base for many companies, our people are expected to lead by example. While we excel in academics, it takes a different set of skills to instil a culture of entrepreneurship and leadership _ a process which takes time to cultivate and is nurtured from a young age. The Prime Minister's proposal to broaden the Direct School Admissions categories to admit those with qualities like character, drive and leadership into top schools is an important step in ensuring that the country nurtures the right talent.Through the recognition of various strengths and the holistic nurturing of our youth today, I believe Singapore would take a greater leap forward in building a community and work environment that fosters good leadership skills.Toby FowlstonManaging Director, SingaporeRobert Walters (Singapore) LtdTHE annual National Day Rally often serves as a reminder of Singapore's constant efforts towards progression, to which most Singaporeans anticipate the upcoming plans and projections for the country. Always a topic of popular debate, the promise of enabling every working Singaporean to own a home is one of the most significant key messages. The affordability of housing is of top concern and the implementation of such policies is likely to impact and improve the standards of living.The future plans for Changi Airport's Terminals 4 and 5 also promise a lot of prospects and opportunities for the coming generations of working professionals in Singapore. This will create jobs across business functions and continue to uphold Changi Airport's global award-winning brand name.Christophe DuchatellierCEOAdecco AsiaTHE government's stance on creating new jobs within the aviation and services sector, through the development of two new terminals, clearly indicates the strong interest it has in ensuring the stability and security of Singaporeans. As much as we can expect new job creation within the aviation-related areas, we urge job-seekers to constantly look towards upgrading and upskilling themselves to remain relevant in this competitive and challenging landscape.Clearly, the government has taken positive steps in ensuring social and economic growth, through the various healthcare and education policies, allowing for Singaporeans to look forward to a better future.Brad GrayRegional Director, South East AsiaPolycomTHE focus on education in this year's National Day Rally was encouraging, with policy changes in the form of a revamped PSLE system and flexible learning environments highlighting how learning no longer needs to be confined within a classroom environment. Technological advances have made cross-country knowledge sharing and other unconventional learning platforms possible, thus defying the traditional boundaries of education.Policy changes in healthcare acknowledge the need to cater to Singapore's ageing population. Initiatives should be put in place to enhance access to healthcare facilities and improve existing systems. Investments in communications infrastructure can facilitate services such as video-consultations from home, thus reducing the need for the elderly to travel and simplifying access to healthcare. Similarly, flexible working policies can be adopted to develop an elderly-friendly working environment. These allow the older workforce to continue offering their expertise using technology that allows them to work from any convenient location.Dhirendra ShantilalBoard Director & Head, Asia PacificFircroftIT was a heartfelt speech. I am especially encouraged by PM Lee's proposal to fine-tune our education system into one that instils a genuine love for learning in students, instead of focusing only on examination performance. I believe that opportunities should be provided for every child to excel to his or her own ability, and at the child's own pace.This holistic educational approach demonstrates the Singapore government's commitment to invest in each individual, and creates a more diverse, versatile and flexible workforce that is also more competitive globally. Part of a more holistic education is to better prepare tertiary-level students for the working world through greater participation in internships.Another important area is healthcare, especially the revamping of MediShield with MediShield Life, which would benefit many elderly residents. While the government is cognisant of not overburdening future generations with higher healthcare premiums, taking care of our elderly is at the core of many Asian traditions, and reflects the vself storagelues we hold dear as a society.Kong Chee MinGroup Chief Executive OfficerCenturion Corp LtdIT is comforting to know that the government is going to do its best to help SMEs cope with the tightened foreign worker supply. The PM's speech has also provided a clear direction about not being over-reliant on foreign labour, by managing its demand while not stopping the inflow of foreign workers into Singapore.Foreign workers will continue to be essential contributors to Singapore's economic development. For jobs that are not palatable to Singaporeans, foreign workers are a lifeline. As they are for almost all of our corporate clients, who house their foreign workers in our accommodation facilities.Kenny GohChief Executive OfficerMacroKioskIT is encouraging to see the Singapore government's initiatives in addressing the country and society's changing needs. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's National Day Rally address highlights the government's commitment to developing well-thought-out, long-term policies and initiatives that cover both the social and corporate sectors.The new infrastructural developments at the airport, in particular, will strengthen Singapore's position as a key gateway to Asia. Singapore's government has effectively leveraged on Singapore's airport as the first touch-point for tourists and business visitors.To continue to build loyalty with first-class business, travel and lifestyle experiences and at the same time reduce operational costs, the government needs to ensure that they have the right technological solutions in place as they build new terminals and facilities at Changi airport. With the growing consumer preference for mobile, paperless communications, mobile technologies will play an integral role in delivering personalised services, such as mobile check-in, mobile ticketing and mobile notifications, in order to address the efficiencies in managing the increasing passenger traffic.Anton RavindranCEO & FounderRapidstartIN his National Day Rally address in Mandarin, PM spoke about the labour crunch. One of the issues which need attention today is the rising cost of operating a business in Singapore and the lack of manpower resources because of the recent foreign talent/worker policies effected by the Ministry of Manpower in recent times. Homegrown businesses and SMEs are facing increasing challenges in recruiting and retaining manpower and some have folded as a consequence in recent times. This ultimately means loss of jobs for Singaporeans who in turn will compete with other Singaporeans for existing jobs.Besides, the new global economy which competes for global talent (which is primarily the key asset of any enterprise) must create an environment which is conducive to enable enterprises to sustain existing business, create new businesses, and to scale and become regional and global enterprises. This would create more and even better jobs. If the issue is about foreign worker/skills depressing the income levels of Singaporeans and/or contributing to the increasing stress on national infrastructure such as public housing and transport, some form of levy, surcharge or tax could be levied on such foreign talent. Such additional tax should not be an issue for them as Singapore has one of the lowest tax regimes globally which the foreign talent can benefit from. Such collection could be used to build additional housing and transport infrastructure to support the increase in population.Trying to keep the pie at the same size will not yield bigger or even better slices. The only way forward is to enlarge the pie by adding talent. We cannot grow by nurturing only selected enterprises. Encouraging more to venture and to set up more enterprises of their own (which will become bigger and global) would create better jobs for Singaporeans.Deepakjit SinghChief Executive OfficerEncompass Digital Media AsiaIT was most affirming to see that the nation has embarked on forging a new social compact, between the government and its people, and between businesses and individuals. As a result of these shifts in society, we will continue to see the transformation of our economy hasten into one that will be led by high-value services, and managed by a more productive workforce which will comprise Singaporeans at its core.In his National Day Rally speech, the Prime Minister reminded us of the wisdom of Dr Goh Keng Swee, who cautioned Singaporeans against taking liberties with past successes, but to build on them and scale greater heights. Enriching the robust foundations of Singapore's successes as an aviation, maritime and financial hub, the government has also identified the prospect of transforming Singapore into a broadcasting and media hub for the world. In my opinion, the country's strengths in the rule of law, respect for intellectual property, budding talent base, and concentration of corporate headquarters place Singapore in a unique position to become the world's digital media valley, where superior content is created and produced and where digital media is developed and managed.Encompass believes in the potential of this transformation and will continue to partner with the government and businesses to realise this aspiration. Beyond expanding our 88,000 square feet facility, we plan to invest $15 million to $20 million in Singapore over the next five years, as we keep up the momentum of attracting leading broadcasters from around the world to the country, so as to make Singapore a genuine hub of excellence and activity.Soon OngChief Executive OfficerClarity GroupPRIME Minister Lee's speech was by far the most decisive demonstration of the changing face of Singapore. In the course of Clarity's 35-year history, the company has seen the city's landscape evolve from one where godowns and shophouses would skirt the Singapore River, to a skyline that now rivals some of world's leading commercial capitals. This year's National Day Rally addressed the next step of our transformation, which signalled a shift in focus from the hardware to the heartware of the nation, and how together, we may realise our collective aspiration.IT was also reassuring to note that the Prime Minister commenced his speech about Singapore's next wave of economic transformation by recognising some key advances in technology _ such as the use of robotics _ that were developed, and are already making a difference in Singapore. As a business which has always harnessed technology as an enabler for people to enjoy a higher quality of life, Clarity is looking forward to being able to play its part in helping Singapore realise its vision for a new Changi Airport, and a milieu of new developments in the Marina Bay area that is currently home to the world's busiest shipping port. The next-generation development _ whether commercial or residential _ will be a smarter one that will?yield greater premiums for their owners with more efficient monitoring and use of energy and facilities.In homes today, we have developed solutions for?families to be able to control and manage household services such as cooling, lighting, blinds, security, and data throughout the apartment via their tablet or smart devices intuitively. Lights,?air-conditioning and environmental control?can work together autonomously. For instance, having set a preferred temperature for a designated space, our smart systems will be able to calibrate air-conditioning while intelligently calculate and react to any heat permeating the room with photovoltaic windows that tint automatically. With less heat, air-conditioning units need not work so hard, which results in massive energy savings.?In homes of the future, we envisage these same residential facilities to take intelligent action as a result of learnt preferences of its owner, from security to entertainment experiences. Imagine the possibilities of applying these advances to next-generation projects like Project Jewel and the new airport terminals, as we nurture a more productive workforce to harness these technologies to deliver on an enhanced service experience. The next step forward is indeed going to be an exciting one!Dora HoanCo-Chairman / Group CEOBest World International LtdTHERE are three main concerns _ housing affordability, medical expenses and education _ which are equally important and urgent to different segments of population. From the National Day Rally, PM has demonstrated that the government will fundamentally address these concerns and from there, pave the way to accommodate the population increase. For the younger generation, who are too intimidated by the housing cost and competitive educational system to have children, the government will be enhancing the housing grants. This will relieve the burden of owning a house. Besides that, the change in PSLE scoring system will be beneficial in alleviating the stress.The next segment will be the senior citizens, who are concerned about the affordability of healthcare due to lack of insurance coverage. Hence, introducing mandatory lifetime coverage for MediShield will be a great and timely move for all Singaporeans. In addition, the relocation of Paya Lebar Air Base and Tanjong Pagar port will help to provide more space for the increasing population. All these paint a positive future for Singapore.David LowCEOFuturistic Store Fixtures Pte LtdTHIS year's National Day Rally saw the Prime Minister outlining the nation blueprint for advancement in the next 20 years. My key takeaway is the government's strategies to keep the country sustainably competitive in the global world by instilling faith in our people and confidence in investors. These ''acts of faith'' will create political stability which is fundamental to support the blueprint. With progressive development plans in infrastructure and basic needs of housing, healthcare and education addressed in alignment to standards of a developed nation, we should see healthy economic growth of 1-3 per cent which reinforces stability in the long run.For the blueprint to take off, the utmost important directive would be to address the needs of the lower tier ensuring a secured safety net comprising affordable housing, promised education and medical coverage. This comes with a high cost and of equal importance would be the calibration of our budget allocation. End of the day, it helps to narrow the gap between the rich and less privileged through working on the fundamentals instead of pure populist-driven policies.Liu ChunlinCEOK&C Protective Technologies Pte LtdTHE government has changed the way of thinking in managing the country by taking real actions: putting in effort through ''Our Singapore Conversation'' initiative in order to understand better the needs and wants of our people, and subsequently combining these findings with the best interest of our country. As a result, the policy changes in subsidy for home purchases and healthcare (including Medisave and MediShield) are very impressive and well-planned.There is also good news for the economy as the government has committed more spending on infrastructure like new port hub at Tuas, Changi Airport Terminal 5 and Jewel at Terminal 1. As a homegrown company that provides security and protective solutions, our company is ready to accept and welcome these great business opportunities to be involved in these future developments. The Jewel Project at Changi Airport is going to be a wonderful experience, one similar to that offered by the Gardens by the Bay, for both the local as well as the foreign visitors.The policy changes are providing the seeds for a better future for our next generations, just like what our forefathers had done for this generation: laying down a solid foundation for the country. In addition, the new developments will create new jobs for at least the next 30 years.David LeongManaging DirectorPeopleWorldwide Consulting Pte LtdPM's 2013 National Day Rally speech is really the drawing of a vision with concrete action plans. A year-long Singapore Conversation has culminated?in real?action on education, healthcare and housing which directly impact on lives.Education is?featured strongly in the rally. His?imagery of a range of peaks and many paths to achievements and to the top of the peaks is a great way to express the education vision. The landscape is not about one mountain or Mount Singapura but a range like the Himalayas each with a visibility on its own highland, each with its own stratosphere. To each his own to achieve and the government will provide the access through the different elevations _ primary, secondary, ITE, polytechnics and universities. Elitism and exclusivity of access to privileged and pedigreed schools are?mitigated with better porosity allowing non-connected or affiliated households and families to have access to good institutions _ but on ballots. Everyone has equal chance _ for primary schools only. For secondary schools, it will be based on merit on scores and other non-academic attributes. This is?very reassuring since education is the greatest social leveller.The challenge to build a more just and socially equal society is?a work in progress and the government must start with getting policies?aligned and coherent?and to deliver them with a heart _ not?clinical coldness.?Homes and hearts must be in the same place. Where there are hearts that care, homes?are?where the hearts are.Joshua YimCEOAchieve GroupTHE policy changes that strike me most are in the areas of housing and healthcare. In terms of housing, there has been a lot of concern among the people, especially low-income families, about whether they are able to afford a home. PM Lee's speech provides a great assurance that every one of us will be able to afford a roof over our heads, and he provided a precise breakdown of the numbers whereby even a household earning $1,000 a month will be able to afford a flat.As Singapore progresses, many of its citizens have begun to feel that the country is getting more and more expensive, catering to the rich and not to commoners. Likewise, medical care is getting more expensive for the man in the street. It is good that the PM's Office is rolling out various strategies to assure the general public that the healthcare system will remain affordable.Having said that, I do feel that more can be done to address the issue of an ageing population. According to the Population White Paper released earlier this year, the number of citizens aged 65 and above will triple to 900,000 by 2030 and this group will be supported by a declining base of working-age citizens. This is a very serious issue that will impact the healthcare system and our society as a whole. I believe the PM's Office is looking into this issue and the policy changes he has announced during the National Day Rally show that the government is moving towards the right direction in terms of taking care of its people.While these steps outlined by PM Lee are very encouraging, I would like to see more initiatives to help the low-income especially, who may not have a strong nest-egg for their retirement.Patrick LiewSpecial AdviserHSR Global LimitedPM Lee inspired me to inculcate six leadership disciplines:1. Envisioning _ Having An Electrifying Vision: PM Lee is part of one of the few if not the only team of leaders that plans 20 years in advance, a dream that captures our imagination.2. Exemplifying _ Setting The Right Example: You may not agree with everything that PM Lee has said in all his speeches but you can't fault him for over-promising and not delivering on the major goods. More importantly, he has demonstrated by his leadership, performance and lifestyle that he is a leader who is worthy of our respect.3. Enrolling _ Developing An Effective Team: As I studied PM Lee's team of leaders in the Auditorium, I have to say that by any international standards, it is a great team of people. They have the commitment, character, competence and compassion that have made Singapore one of the most admired countries in the world.4. Empowering _ Enabling Teammates To Fulfil The Vision: PM Lee has been building upon one of the most effective leadership succession models. As Singaporeans, we should be thankful that few governments in the world have a more vigorous system in selecting, developing and promoting its leaders.5. Encouraging _ Inspiring and Motivating Your Team Mates: Throughout his speech, PM Lee gave credit to individuals, communities and the government, all of whose constituencies are important and vital in building our nation. He was generous in praising fellow colleagues and ordinary persons on the street.6. Excelling _ Taking Your Team Unrelentingly To Higher Levels: PM Lee reminded Singapore about the rapid change and uncertainty caused by globalisation, technology, and competition.He challenged us to change our mindset, aim high, and adopt a new strategic direction so as to enhance our well-being, advantage and growth.Thirumalai ChandrooChairman/CEOModern Montessori International GroupHEARTFELT and motivated _ that's what I felt of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's National Day Rally speech. It was a speech that addressed facts and spoke of issues that many Singaporeans are grappling with on a daily basis. PM Lee addressed the core areas of housing, education, healthcare and building strong ties as a community, which are all important to keep the development of our small but feisty Singapore going.One that really struck a chord with me as most significant is education; for I am in the business of teaching. Ensuring that our future generations are given the best opportunities and resources is important to me as it ensures that a well-educated community has a great deal to offer to the growth and stability of the country. PM Lee emphasised the importance of meritocracy in Singapore's education system. He also acknowledged that it could do with more changes, which is the hallmark of our nation that constantly seeks to better herself and never becomes complacent with her current success.A holistic and open approach was the ideation behind our march forward for education this National Day Rally. PM Lee announced that PSLE is going to move towards a letter-based grading system which I view as a positive welcome, as it allows children to perform without the added pressure of how a single point in a T-score could ultimately affect their grades. As an educator myself, it is my thought that, when students are prompted from within to learn, they fuel inner qualities which are required for their destinations in advance. These qualities include resilience, creativity and self-discipline; which cannot always be tallied by scores.Another significant move is the provision for secondary school students who are in the Normal Academic stream _ to pursue a higher level subject if they have done well in that subject in their PSLE. This is a very positive and enriching move for any student who may be weaker in some subjects and stronger in others. This allows students to expand their knowledge of subjects that they show keen interest in.Thus having a broader banding system and opening up more options for our secondary students will maintain the positive effect of requiring schools to come up with a more holistic approach to their methods of education. It is progress towards creating students who are interested in reaching a particular goal fundamentally, and then the motivation to pursue it will fall from within. Their interests and natural abilities should become a starting point for learning, for them to enjoy the learning process and eventually specialise in a field that would become their career. Of course, on the contrary: a more open system at higher levels will also mean that parents may put more emphasis on children when they are younger, expecting pre-schools to offer a more academic-based curriculum as opposed to the ''play-as-you-learn'' approach we take today.Though it appears to be a perfect tempest of changes, it will take time to develop these initiatives and understand their potential, and I believe that with our strong foundation as a developing nation, nothing can deter us as we continue to make headway in a constructive manner.迷你倉