Active citizenry - the way forward for Singapore

Letter from Jerry Siah Eng Kiat
Honorary Executive Director Spaces Community
Straits Times Forum 20 Jul 06
full article

Singapore has developed very rapidly from a Third World country to a First World economy within a short period of 41 years. Our population has become increasingly educated and mobile, and many of us have grown in affluence.

However, this endless pursuit of material possessions is notbringing happiness to many Singaporeans.

It is no surprise that Singaporeans are the least happy people in Asia.

As we face the next lap, it is not economic pursuit but active citizenry that will be critical for Singaporeans to develop a sense of belonging and rootedness to this country, and in the process, restore our passion, our sense of happiness and social graciousness in keeping with our First World economy.

One area of being an active citizen is to be involved in a social, political or interest group, advancing social or political issues.

Volunteerism is another area of active citizenry.

Active citizenry does not necessary mean laborious, time-consuming or highly intellectual activities. It involves doing what inspires us in many different fields of interest, and even in simply living as civic-minded citizens.

We should make active citizenry a part of our lifestyle, involving our entire family in voluntary works or in an interest group.