Workers’ Party honours first generation S’poreans
They could be parents, grandparents, elderly cleaners, retired civil servants or the first National Servicemen.
This National Day, the Workers' Party is turning its attention to the first generation of Singaporeans who struggled to build the nation during the early decades of independence.
"This generation embodies the true Singapore spirit - the determination to work hard, overcome the odds and carve out a better life for their children," said WP chairmen and Member of Parliament for Aljunied GRC Sylvia Lim in a statement released on Monday.
In a special tribute thanking this generation of pioneers, Lim urged Singaporeans not to forget their contributions.
"The men and women in our pioneer generation have borne society's burdens for the past 46 years and more. ... Our nation must now give its best in return to them."
"Even as we strive for progress and economic efficiency, our nation has an obligation to help this generation of Singaporeans live their latter years in dignity, comfort and fulfilment; free from worry and fear for lack of provision," she said.
The National Solidarity Party's (NSP) secretary general Hazel Poa also wished Singaporeans a happy National Day on Monday.
She called on Singaporeans to "stay engaged with matters of the state" and to continue to speak up for their beliefs even after the General Election.
Highlighting "challenging times ahead", Poa pointed to the faltering economies of the US and Europe, existing problems such as the escalating cost of living and heightened tensions between locals and foreigners.
"While these foreigners have been the easy targets of our discontent, remember that they too have the right to seek a better life on our shores, much as our forefathers did before. We who have been here for so long must never condescend and forget that Singapore is a society of immigrants," she stressed.
Poa added, "In the years ahead, let us exercise our new found power with responsibility and mutual respect, to realise the society that we want — one that is just, prosperous and compassionate."
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