The conversation with Joshua today touched on something that is very close to our heart.

The topic of discussion is Singapore, and its future. In recent times, the ruling PAP-led government is gradually running out of ideas or perhaps, running out of the possibility to push Singapore to a next level in a top down approach.

Singapore had always been learning and following the best practices in the world, following well established value chain that developed economies had been and done that. From attracting MNCs around the world to set up the manufacturing sector for Singapore, expanding on Singapore’s strength as a maritime port; and then transforming from manufacturing to service focus as Singapore steps up the value chain. Becoming a financial hub as well as one of the most sought after tourist destination. However, what is next?

The government’s attempt to bet on making Singapore a key gaming and animation industry center in the region. Tons of money is also pumped into the research in various high tech fields, with varying results. Adoption of new technologies in Singapore also seemed to be slow, despite being the prime location to test out all the latest awesome stuff… In a way, all the superficial awesomeness of Singapore led by the top down approach no longer seemed to be working.

The problem is largely down to the people and culture. There isn’t the kind of culture in Singapore that drives entrepreneurship or innovation. The people are always leaning towards taking well established safe paths. For some, defensive and resistance to competition and change. Others, becomes complacent and unwilling to take ownership/responsibility for what they are working on. Like the government’s habit of pushing work into the private sector, relinquishing direct control and responsibility, and preferring to pointing fingers when things goes wrong. MRT breakdowns, HDB under-building and hospital beds shortage are indication of the slow decay in planning and responsibility.

Many of the people also did not take the advantage of the internet to understand the world around them, and when you read the kind of irresponsible comments they make on neighbouring countries and foreigners/foreign workers – its indicative of the lack of world view and understanding. The inability to view the macro picture and relate to the cultural/geopolitical differences means that Singaporeans are unlikely to venture overseas in contrary to what the government hopes. The lack of initiative to venture and to stay within the borders to “earn the Singapore money”, means that the government will have to continue to serve as the “nanny” to the people and micromanage the “free market” in order for there to even be a viable market for the locals to earn their keep.

Some form of “cultural revolution” is required. And the transformation in mindset, thinking, perspective and culture will not be easy.

But the silver lining is this: the Prime Minister understands this fully and invites Singaporeans to be part of this change. A change that marks by policies and solutions being crafted from the ground up, where innovation and hope are driven by the common man. We decides to answer that call.

The metamorphosis will come.