Like many born in
1965, I grew up with Singapore and I am a product of 50 years of nation
building, social and economic policies. Undeniably, my life story is
intertwined with the nation’s history.
Therefore, I cannot see why the celebration of Singapore’s golden jubilee
should include Jubilee Special Packages for babies born in 2015. What
significance does the nation’s 50th anniversary have on infants
who are too young to understand? Will mementos like baby products that infants
quickly out-grow impact the birth rate next year? Is that the purpose of the
package?
I am proud to be a Singaporean whose life narrative is intertwined with the
nation’s growth trajectories. For better or for worse, those born in 1965
have borne the brunt and reaped the benefits of family, economic and social
policies implemented in the last 5 decades.
As I turn 50 with Singapore, I hope the SG50 committee will include something
to mark our common destiny. Why not turn the focus on these Singaporeans
who will turn 50 rather than babies born in the year 2015? Perhaps the
committee could seek public feedback for ideas on how those turning 50 with the
nation could commemorate their birthdays together.