So the debate on our government's Population White Paper continues. It was a packed house last night and fortunately I got there just in time to grab a seat and my drink (and an extra one for my friend). It was unfortunate that Green Drinks didn't (or perhaps, couldn't?) include someone from the "opposing" camp, someone who could give views on why they think this policy is right. It would have been a very intense discussion! It was good though that there was a youth representative ( Xinyuan said her group only had six, but it's a start!) as part of the panel as she gave a somewhat fresher perspective to the issue. I absolutely agreed with her on one point about people needing to stop and observe their surroundings. Stop using your gadgets for once!
As Dr. Ho pointed out we are losing our wildlife and only a small proportion of our green areas are protected. And, as Xinyuan rightly said, green does not mean the landscaped areas, parks or roads. Somehow, many of us seem to think that by just planting a tree we are saving the environment. I'm sorry, it's only part of the equation - why can't we protect what nature we have? Unfortunately, we have a long way to go and as Ms. Faizah said she hopes to see Environmental Impact Assessment legislation during her time as an NMP. I just wonder whether it will be too little too late.
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