Singapore had its General Elections last weekend. I have lived in the opposition stronghold for the last 25 years by the grace of my parents’ housing choice. It has been an emotional rollercoaster ride for me. I shared the joy of the WP wins with my friends at Hougang stadium only to discover at 3am that I have lost my town. What used to be a symbol of the last bastion of democracy in Singapore. The internet is aflutter with sympathy messages, an outpouring of emotions, there were impromptu marches chanting our outgoing MP’s name. This is the kind of town I live in. It has been difficult to put in words what it means to those who’ve only heard of our town but have never participated in the carnival-like atmosphere after the election results have been announced. This year when the incumbent from the ruling government’s name was announced, there were no celebrations. The streets were quiet save for massive outcries from those gathered in the coffee shops expecting to hear the beating of the drums echo the beating of our hearts. A petition by passionate residents is going around. Everyone is signing in hope of a by-election. My friends and I did too. But let’s be pragmatic. Singapore wasn’t built on tears and emotions. The legends of our efficiency are not to be dismissed. This will be swept under the carpet, our lives will go on. The petition will only serve to amplify the strength and the sentiments of a town’s people love for the champion of their voices. There is no hope for my town but there is hope for humanity. I am proud of the neighbours who share my beliefs, I am sorry for those who live here and are not part of this movement. I grief. This is a new lap, my fellow Singaporeans.
An Exercise In Trivial Pursuits 