S’pore politicians extend well wishes for new year

SINGAPORE: Singapore’s Emeritus Senior Minister and Member of Parliament (MP) for Marine Parade Group Representation Constituency (GRC), Mr Goh Chok Tong said his wish for 2013 is simply that it will be a better year for the world and Singapore.

Writing on his Facebook page, he said 2012 has been an eventful year for the world and Singapore.

Among the events coming to his mind — Hurricane Sandy, US President Obama’s re—election, leadership changes in Asia, and the civil war in Syria with innocent lives lost and life disrupted.

Mr Goh also recalled the the Indian girl who was gang raped and later passed away, the MRT train break—downs, the illegal strike by Chinese bus drivers, the high—profile sex scandals and the industrial accidents in Singapore.

He added that he cannot instantly think of good events to recall, not that there were none but that they were overwhelmed by the bad news.

Mr Goh wished Singaporeans good health, success in their studies, career and business, family happiness, peace of mind and luck as well.

Also expressing his new year wishes on Facebook was Minister for Communications and Information and Minister in Charge of Muslim Affairs, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, who hopes the new year will be a better year for all women.

He said as the world bids 2012 good bye and welcomes 2013, there are many events that come to his mind.

Dr Yaacob said the acts committed against the Indian lady who died after being gang raped and assaulted and Ms Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani girl who was shot in the face, have especially shocked him with their callousness and unspeakable violence.

Dr Yaacob stressed that no one deserves what the two women had gone through, and everyone deserves a shot at happiness and a better life.

Dr Yaacob said it was against this tragic backdrop that he was heartened to see his friend’s daughter doing well getting the Edusave Award.

The Minister stressed that it is society’s duty to help everyone to realise their fullest potential.

To every father, mother, teacher and those in a position to shape and influence the lives of others, Dr Yaacob urged them to treat their ward with care and respect and give them the dignity they deserve.

He also urged them to empower girls and teach boys to respect.

Finally, Dr Yaacob’s perennial wish is for a homeland for the Palestinians.

Meanwhile, Education Minister Heng Swee Keat is confident of making learning more engaging for students, as he looks forward to 2013.

In a New Year message on his Facebook page, Mr Heng hopes families spend more time together in 2013.

He also urged parents to help their children set realistic goals, cheer them on in their efforts, encourage them to make friends, help others and develop a range of interests.

He also called on Singaporeans to care for those in need, even as they care for their children.

Mr Heng, who chairs the Our Singapore Conversation effort, also thanked the many people who have given constructive suggestions during the sessions.

He hopes many more will take part in the sessions in 2013.

— CNA/xq/ms