WHEN the Forward Singapore initiative was announced this June, there was the predictable range of reactions. Some people stayed apathetic while others expressed cynicism along the lines of “We’ve been here before”, referencing previous conversation initiatives. I am glad to say many people see this latest initiative in a much more positive light. For surely it is another evolutionary step towards building a broader and deeper collaboration between citizens and residents of Singapore and the government. 

While citizens are voters and the people to whom the government is answerable, the residents of Singapore are another important constituency given their economic role. A global city like Singapore needs to serve its citizens and provide an optimal environment for residents to attract and retain the best. The 2 goals are not mutually exclusive but instead equally important for sustained economic, national and societal success.

We are fortunate to live in a country where good governance, in the broadest sense of the term, is the norm in public life, not the exception. Where government not only cares but listens, learns, evaluates and takes a balanced view to ensure the best possible outcomes for Singapore. There are no special interests in Singapore except those of its citizens.