'A very difficult transition' if PAP falls from power: DPM Teo
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SINGAPORE -While social media is "very powerful in amplifying voices of people who are most articulate" in using this medium, it can also be a drawback, noted Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean.
"One negativity I personally don't like in social media is anonymity because it allows you to make statements without responsibilities. And I don't think we can have a responsible discussion if one is not asked to be responsible for what he says," Mr Teo said at a dialogue, Singaporeans in Conversation, with 250 students yesterday. "That results in a discussion which quite often becomes skewed and unproductive."
In a poll conducted during the session, 65 per cent of the participants said they felt they had a voice in shaping policies. Mr Teo said they did not have to be in party politics to make a difference. "You can express your values and what's important to you by doing something for society."
Asked if it was possible that the People's Action Party (PAP) would not be in power some day, Mr Teo said yes.
"But do I see a smooth transition to a system that's more glorious? The answer is no. I think it will be a very difficult transition. And I'm not sure what the outcome will be and I'm not convinced the outcome will be a better one." He said this was why the PAP places high importance on drawing in those who are able and committed, and who can develop policies that will take Singapore forward.
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SINGAPORE -While social media is "very powerful in amplifying voices of people who are most articulate" in using this medium, it can also be a drawback, noted Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean.
"One negativity I personally don't like in social media is anonymity because it allows you to make statements without responsibilities. And I don't think we can have a responsible discussion if one is not asked to be responsible for what he says," Mr Teo said at a dialogue, Singaporeans in Conversation, with 250 students yesterday. "That results in a discussion which quite often becomes skewed and unproductive."
In a poll conducted during the session, 65 per cent of the participants said they felt they had a voice in shaping policies. Mr Teo said they did not have to be in party politics to make a difference. "You can express your values and what's important to you by doing something for society."
Asked if it was possible that the People's Action Party (PAP) would not be in power some day, Mr Teo said yes.
"But do I see a smooth transition to a system that's more glorious? The answer is no. I think it will be a very difficult transition. And I'm not sure what the outcome will be and I'm not convinced the outcome will be a better one." He said this was why the PAP places high importance on drawing in those who are able and committed, and who can develop policies that will take Singapore forward.