Singapore's 42nd National Day

Some things I hope to see in Singapore

1. Better road transportation.
Fewer cars, better and more considerate drivers, high road usage charge for congested areas, extremely high petrol taxes, affordable public transportation with extensive network and good plying frequencies.

2. Less time for the world out there, more time for me and my loved ones.
If work-life balance is to be achieved, there is a need to kill more than just the 5.5-day work week sacred cow. We are still made to appear 44.5 hours in office (at least) weekly. However, I work in the night to meet incredulous deadlines! Therefore, there should be a fundamental re-think about the hours in the office.

3. Benefits for Single Singaporeans.
For a start, allowing single Singaporeans to own government flats at an earlier age and at least ONE subsidy. Recognise domestic partnerships for gay couples. Allow single Singaporeans a lower tax rate at lower income ranges. Extend pro-rated family benefits to singles and those in domestic partnerships. Allow use of medisave in domestic partnerships.

4. Enforce and raid heinous crimes, but do not intrude into private, harmless acts.
The police has come out to say that they would stay out of bedrooms of consenting adults. Heartening news indeed.

5. Diversity means tolerance.
Manage possible provocation arising from social issues (outside of religious and racial lines). Only this way can Singapore be able to expand the citizens' scope to what the real world out there really is. Differences are to be respected and tolerated, not discriminated against or persecuted.

6. Tweak the education system.
Celebrate inabilities. Not all are cut out to be top scholars. Some school failures were great businessmen making lots of money. Some have become the pride of the country. Provide more avenues for these people to thrive. Abolish compulsory education beyond 8 years. By 14 or 15, one would know if education or further studies are suitable for the child. Do not waste another two years of his or her life. Let them progress to technical, performing, art, whatever school.

If we can get these, it would be a start.