OPINION: Dismayed by White Paper, uncertain about future - Kirsten Han

inSing.com, 13 Feb 2013

While speaking in favour of the recently published White Paper on Population, Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Teo Chee Hean argued that the policies would prevent young Singaporeans from leaving Singapore for greener pastures in the future.
After what I feel is a pointless five-day debate – the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) was always going to be able to push the paper through given its majority presence in the House – the paper was passed on 9 February. It was approved by 77 Members of Parliament; 13 voted against it, and eight did not vote.
I could practically hear the cry of dismay from my circle of friends online.
Judging from their reaction, DPM Teo’s comments were incredibly out of touch. Many young Singaporeans, such as myself, don’t believe the White Paper will improve our lives. Full story