The Prime Minister has unveiled his latest line-up for the cabinet. He described it as “epochal”. I agree wholeheartedly. It is indeed a radical and significant change from previous past reshuffles. The stepping down of our iconic statesmen (both MM Lee and SM Goh), as well as 3 other Cabinet ministers augurs well for the anticipated transformation that the PAP government has been talking so much about. The significant number of younger and newer ministers helming the various ministries also raise the expectations of a thorough and radical review of existing policies that many Singaporeans felt strongly against. However, whilst this may be the expectation, I hope that Singaporeans will be patient in allowing the new office-bearers to do what is necessary. These changes, if any, take time and the eventual anticipated outcome will only be manifested over a period of time.
Kudos also to all the retiring Ministers for having served the nation well over their many decades of dedicated service, seeing the country through good and bad times. Public service is demanding, requires compassion, hardwork, empathy and the heart to serve. There are also other sacrifices like family and personal time, public scrutiny and criticism, some valid but many are often cruel and objectionable.
Nonetheless, this new refreshed slate of cabinet ministers marked a new era of politics in Singapore, a new generation of leaders that will bring Singapore into the future. Let’s unite as one Singapore and secure our future together.
