Irresponsible advertising is the norm in the auto business. For decades, advertising and promotional materials have packaged cars of all sizes, shapes and sticker prices in basically the same way, promising freedom from other road users. Full Story
Even if totally independent, it would be difficult enough for any group of bloggers, no matter how well respected, to persuade others to adopt a code. Herding cats would be simpler. The merest whiff of government involvement would destroy any chance of success – that would be like trying to herd cats while walking a dog. The best thing the government can do to encourage the process is to provide a clear and unambiguous signal that it will not tighten the regulation of political speech. Full Story
The next time people encounter racist or religiously offensive speech, it would be nice to see swift responses from credible and respected civil society groups, Members of Parliament, and other ordinary citizens. If the speaker doesn’t get the message, organise boycotts, for example, and give him or her the clear message that our society isn’t going to take such offence lying down. The more we can respond ourselves through open debate and grassroots action, without the need to ask law and order to step in, the stronger our society will be. Full Story
Responding to Singaporeans' greater appetite for political engagement, Lee Hsien Loong has pledged that his government will be more open with information and allow more debate. However, the prime minister also appealed to the opposition and PAP backbenchers not to pander to populist sentiment. Those who want good government should not be afraid to speak up for unpopular positions that happen to be right, he said. Full Story
Amy Khor, chairman of REACH, has encouraged the Government to engage netizens on sites that "allow for reasoned and constructive debate and gain traction". "Netizens themselves who desire rational discourse should support such sites or else start them," she said. Khor's speech in Parliament also reflected the PAP's alarm at the appeal of less rational wesbites – an alarm that may result in new legislation. Full Story
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has called for online spaces where Singaporeans and the government can engage in more balanced, open and rational debate on issues. He did not say how such spaces could form, or whether the government intended to create or facilitate such sites. The most effective solution would be bottom-up projects, created independently by established bloggers with street-cred. Could Singapore’s socio-political bloggers, for so long seen as a thorn in the government’s side, be the answer to the PM’s prayers? Full Story