Three corner contest

I have decided to go for a three contest contests after reading in the mainstream media that Dr. Tan Cheng Bock is not open to discuss this matter and has said categorically that he will not withdraw from the contest.

No need for lies, online bashing

http://sg.news.yahoo.com/blogs/singaporescene/tan-kin-lian-no-lies-online-bashing-044911646.html#mwpphu-container

Quote
Some take his statements and "give it the most negative twist", some have posted lies and defamed him online since he announced his Presidential bid, said former NTUC Income chief executive Tan Kin Lian.
Unquote

Contest the Presidential Election

If I get the certificate of eligibility, I will contest the Presidential election. I have already started to send out my message by e-mail to my supporters and asking them to send out the message to their friends, colleagues, neighbours and acquaintances. Many of them are responding positively.

I will pay for the election deposit on my own. I have already collected sufficient pledges to cover the basic expenses (but on a modest budget). If there are more donations, I can increase the outreach activities after the campaign starts.

I have now decided to proceed with a three corner contest. (I read in the mainstream media that Dr. Tan Cheng Bock is not open to discuss this matter and has said categorically that he will not withdraw from the contest.).

Tan Kin Lian

President's power of clemency

A journalist asked me to comment on the changes that I like to see in the constitution on the power of the President. (She said that Dr. Tony Tan had given some comments in his interview on this matter).

I replied that I like to see the constitution changed to give the full power of clemency to the President. He can seek the advice of his Presidential Council  or the Cabinet, but should not be compelled to follow the decision of the Cabinet.

This does not mean that he will act against the advice of the Cabinet. The Cabinet or Home Affairs Minister can give its recommendation for the President to make the final decision. Unless the President has strong reasons, the President is likely to take this advice. This is a more proper approach.

It is also better for the Government to allow the President to exercise clemency, and help the Government get out of a difficult situation, for borderline cases - where there is an element of doubt. In other cases, the President has to reject the appeal and take the burden of this difficult situation.

Safeguard the reserves - investment policy

Dear Mr. Tan,
I am disappointed that you accepted the statement by the Law Minister that the President have no say on the investment strategy. How can you safeguard the reserves when it can be invested recklessly? 

REPLY
I accept the statement that the President must work within the powers allowed under the Constitution and should not interfere with the decisions of the Government. I also agree that it is necessary for the President to have a say on the investment policy as a logical extension of his duty to safeguard the reserves. I agree with the Law Minister that this involvement does not go into the day to day execution of the investment policy - which should be left to the full time professionals. I do not wish to debate this issue now, and will be happy to let the matter be resolved by the next elected President. It can be discussed behind closed doors.

Foreign students policy

http://www.temasekreview.com/2011/06/27/young-singaporeans-angry-at-dr-tony-tan-for-depriving-them-opportunities-at-home/

Quote

Due to Dr Tony Tan’s pro-foreigner education policies, many Singaporeans missed out on places in local universities and had to further their tertiary education overseas, a fact not lost on a NTU graduate who said:

“Tony Tan is responsible for one of the greatest policy errors that will cause great, untold harm to Singapore. His foreign students policies have caused an entire generation of Singaporeans to lose loyalty for Singapore.

Which citizens would not lose their feelings for the country if they are discriminated in the very country whom they have sacrificed 2.5 years of their lives under a humiliating military conscription service."

Unquote

Voices of the People

Endorsements for Tan Kin Lian for President.

All endorsements

Wait until after the election

Many people are writing to me for assistance on their insurance and other personal problems, more so than previously. I am not able to find the time to assist them now, as I have many things to attend to for the Presidential Election. I hope that they can approach me after the election, when I can find more time.

Endorse Tan Kin Lian

I have decided to vote for Tan Kin Lian as President of Singapore for the following reasons:


1. He really cares for the welfare and well-being of ordinary people by expressing his concerns and making suggestions on the following issues:
· the affordability of HDB flats
· unemployment insurance for the workers
· the widening income gap between the elites and ordinary workers
· the transportation woes of ordinary people
· the high public medical fee
· the need of minimum wage
· the selling of complex credit-link notes to ordinary people
· the selling of high cost and low yield insurance products to ordinary people

2. When he was the CEO of NTUC Income, he implemented many low cost insurance policies (with low commission costs) which benefited many ordinary Singaporeans.

3. He also expressed his concerns on the high ministerial salaries and the record high salaries/bonuses of the elites.

4. He spoke up for the ordinary people who lost money to toxic products sold by banks

5. He prefers to adopt a conservative approach in the investment of our national reserves

6. He has indicated he would donate at least 50% of the President’s annual salary to a charity set up to promote causes which he believes in.

Pang

Fund raising for the campaign

I have mentioned a fund raising target of $100,000 to $200,000 for my campaign to cover several items, including the deposit. I expect to bear any balance of the campaign expenses that are not covered by the donations.

If there is any balance in the campaign funds, especially after the refund of the deposit (assuming that it is not forfeited), I will donate the balance to a charity or other worthy causes. It will not be practical to refund the balance to any of the donors. Quite likely, I will have to bear the deposit on my own.

Tan Kin Lian

Visuals for my campaign

Here are some possible visuals for my campaign.
Please give your rating to each visual (1 to 6) in this survey. 

Example for the young

Hi Mr. Tan Kin Lian,

 

First salute you for standing up and be counted. This alone is worthy of your endeavor to set an excellent example for younger generations of Singaporeans to emulate and inspire them to participate in the political process.

 

Secondly, I wish your nomination is successful with a Certificate of Eligibility.

 

Thirdly, may I suggest that when you campaign, focus on the following aspirations of Singaporeans, especially the younger generations and the more educated:

 

1) A more just and equal society (fairness is what they are yearning). Be it rich or poor, government scholars or ITE dropouts, 

managers or taxi-drivers, they must be equal partners in nation-building, progress and prosperity. Nobody should be left behind and there must always be a level-playing field for all citizens. They must be equal partners in nation-building, progress and prosperity. Nobody should be left behind and there must always be a level-playing field for all citizens.

 

2) Separation of the State and political parties, religion, language and race. Regardless of your political views, your religion, language or race, every Singaporean has the same right to participate in the political process, to aspire to be MPs, to aspire to be Prime Minister, President. So such talk as "an Indian is not ready for PM", "I do not apologize to say PAP is Singapore" must be rectified. Patriotism is not the domain of the PAP, it is not the sole-proprietorship of the MIWs. A Singaporean who argues on policies and holds differing political views may be more patriotic, if not equal, to any MIW. As such, I hope the EP can look into the abuse of nation's assets funded by taxpayers (also part of the nation's reserve) for partisan political gain, such as PA, CDCs, HDB upgrading, MRT stations selectively closed in opposition wards, etc.

 

3) A voice for the people, a change in relationship between the rulers and the citizenry. It must not be a 'father-son', ' Ruler-subject' Confucius paternalistic style, but ' brothers-sisters' helping each other and respecting each other in a same family. Go back on what Mr. Ngiam Tong Dow has said before :

 

"Sparta was a militaristic city where the leadership was largely self-selected from the best and the fittest through meritocracy. Athens was a civic-minded city where there was diversity of views from the various Philosophers. In the end, Athens survived far longer and better than Sparta. Sparta ended up with dictatorship and elitism."

 

Singaporeans by and large hate ruthless meritocracy, elitism, although they are competitive and striving in nature.

 

My best wishes and I will help mobilize support for you in my own way.

 

TS (Teck Suan) Low

Message from Tan Kin Lian for President

My name is Tan Kin Lian. I am standing for election as President of Singapore.

Many people have told me that they want a President who can:

• Be a voice of the people
• Be independent of the PAP Government
• Safeguard their CPF money and the national reserves

If you give me your support and I get elected, I promise you that I will carry out these tasks diligently.

I come from a humble family background. When I was a child, I lived in a rented room and had to move residence a few times. Later, I lived in a HDB flat for 7 years. Today, I live in a ordinary house and like many Singaporeans, I have a car but often travel by bus and MRT. 

I understand the struggle of many people who find it difficult to earn enough to meet the cost of living, have to travel in crowded public transport daily and have to face the competition for jobs. I am close to the ordinary people in Singapore and can be your voice to carry your views to the Government.

I have never been a MP or minister in the PAP Government. As President, I will be able to think and act independently of the Government and take a different perspective in looking after the interest of the people of Singapore. I will work in cooperation with the Government to find solutions that are best for the people. 

In my decisions, I will be guided by my personal values of honesty, fairness, positive attitude, courage and public service and by the views of the people (which I will actively seek).

I am qualified and have the financial knowledge to safeguard your CPF money and the national reserves. I had nurtured an insurance company for 30 years, looking after the savings of over 1 million people and managing assets of $17 billion. 

I understand the need to be prudent in our investments, to avoid speculation and to invest for the long term. I can bring this knowledge to the duty of the President in safeguarding the reserves.

I wish to run for President as a public duty. I do not wish to receive a large salary as President and will be willing to donate at least 50% of the salary to charity and other worthy causes.

I hope that you will give me your support and will encourage your friends, colleagues, neighbors to support me. Please help me in spreading this message to them.

Tan Kin Lian

Candidate for President of Singapore

Presidential Election - fund raising

Reply to Straits Times journalist.

I am setting aside a modest target of $100,00 to $200,000 for the campaign. (I understand that Dr. Tan Cheng Bock is targetting $500,000).

The funds will be used for:

a) Deposit of $48,000 to take part in the election

b) Printing of campaign materials

c) Distribution of campaign materials

d) Out reach activities, e.g. meeting people in markets, train stations, etc

e) Rallies

f) Rental of premises, logistics, contractors, sound system, manpower expenses

g) production of videos to appear in the internet

So far, the donations have been slow. I approached a few companies and wealthy people that could make a significant donation, but they declined - explaining that they prefer to be "neutral". I understand, as they are afraid that their donation will be frowned on by the people in power. The support from the ordinary citizens have also been slow - which is typical of Singaporeans - to wait for the last minute. It is hard for me to plan my activities when the funding is not clear.

I am working on a modest, shoe string budget and will carry out some of the outreach activities and rallies - only when the funds are available. 

I intend to have campaign materials to be distributed to all households (and will need the help of supporters or paid manpower to handle the distribution).

I can meet the expenses on my own, but I want the people to have the chance to contribute financially to the campaign as well. I do not wish to shoulder this arduous task and journey on my own, with the help of a few supporters. I hope that more Singaporeans will come forward to make my campaign into their own campaign as well.

They can read my statements in www.easyapps.sg/tklep

They can donate here: http://www.easyapps.sg/tklep/Donate.aspx

They can enrol to be my supporter here: https://spreadsheets.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dGprMUhXNnVzS3dJcVNXWXkySnBZeGc6MQ#gid=0

Presidential Election - contest of 2 or 3 candidates

Several journalists have asked me about the possibility of dicussing with Dr. Tan Cheng Bock on one of us withdrawing from the campaign.Here is my answer:

Some people have asked me to consider talking to Dr. Tan Cheng Bock and discuss if one of us should drop out of the campaign to give the other candidate a better chance to contest against Dr. Tony Tan. But other people felt strongly that I should continue to contest the election as I am most independent of the PAP. 

I will keep the options open and will decide after the certificates of eligibilty are issued. I have mentioned this point to Dr. Tan Cheng Bock previously. I believe that he is also waiting to see what happens before he decides.

I am now quite clear that I will offer a choice to the people to vote for a person who can:

a) He will be think independently of the PAP in looking after the interest of the people.

b) He will actively seen and communicate the aspirations of the people to the government

c) He is capable in safeguarding our CPF money and the national reserves 

I will also donate at least 50% of the President's salary to charity, if I am elected. I wish to help the children from poor families to pay their school fees and elderly poor to pay their hospital bills. I also hope to get the support of other Singaporeans in contributing to this worthy cause.

Nuclear energy

Hi Mr Tan, Thank you for your courage to step forth to be counted as one of the Presidential hopefuls. I wish you all the best in this fight to be the President of Singapore.

I have a pertinent question.

What is your stand on nuclear energy? The PM has said that we have to "study nuclear option". We know that in Singapore, that is a euphemism for "we will do it". Nuclear energy implementation take time to research and build. This matter will definitely be tabled within the next term of the new President.

Would you care to share your thoughts on your blog regarding this matter? What role do you think the President's role will be to support or veto this initiative? 

Chris Chan

Dear Chris Chan,

I think that the President does not have any authority to veto this initiative.

Personally, I do not know the seriousness of the danger of using nuclear energy in a small and densely populated place like Singapore. If I were to be in charge, e.g. as the prime minister, I would ask for the views and recommendations of the experts and weigh the pros and cons carefully.

False and malicious smears

There is a person who has posted several malicious statements about me in several websites under a pen name. He had accused me of many inappropriate behavior, including mishandling a case of a long serving employee who was traumatized by a "TKL favored manager". Several of his statements were false and I had rebutted them in the website.

I found out later the real name of a person who was making similar accusations against me in Tan Cheng Bock's facebook.

From the statements, I guessed the identity of the "TKL favored manager". I asked him if he knew about the case and gave him the name of the accuser. He recognized the name immediately as the boy friend of an employee who had worked under him, and who had accused him of mistreating his girl friend, who was transferred to his department and had performed badly. He could not remember what had happened to that case, but confirmed that the complaint was handled by the general manager of the division.

This was a case that I did not deal with personally - as there are people in the line of authority who were responsible to deal with the matter. The accuser must have felt very angry over this matter and is now spreading malicious smears against my character in several websites and circulating the smears widely by e-mail. He was not even an employee of NTUC Income, but he made many detailed statements that appeared to the public to be the grievances of a former employee.

A few people told me that their friends had received the e-mail and had a bad impression of me through the accusations. One person said, "there is no smoke without fire". This is the damage that can be caused by malicious lies.

When Tang Lian Hong said that some people were "liars", he was sued so extensively that he had to flee Singapore. I do not object if someone called me a liar (which is just an opinion), but the smears against me by this person (and I know his identity now) is many times more serious and malicious. I have to consider taking legal action against him when I find the time later on to gather the appropriate evidence.

Tan Kin Lian

Spread the message

Dr. Tony Tan will be getting the support of the mainstream media.

I need my supporters to spread the word through word of mouth and through the internet. Here is your chance to be involved. My statements are in my blog and website (www.easyapps.sg/tklep). You can send any of the following messages to your friends, and ask them to send to their friends.

I support Tan Kin Lian for President for the following reasons:
a) He will think independently of the PAP in looking after the interest of the people.
b) He will actively seek and communicate the aspirations of the people to the government
c) He is capable of safeguarding our CPF money and the national reserves 
Please go to www.easyapps.sg/tklep to read about his statements and also enrol as a supporter or donate to the campaign.

CPF Cut

http://singstatistician.blogspot.com/2011/06/dr-tony-tan-used-funny-numbers-of.html

By now, many Singaporeans are used to seeing PAP Ministers using “funny” numbers to try and defend the indefensible. For example when Mr Mah Bow Tan was still Minister Mah Bow Tan, he used to deluge us with all sorts of strange statistics to show that HDB flats were “affordable”. 


Similarly when Mr Raymond Lim was Minister Raymond Lim, he used to show us surveys of  how happy all of us were with public transport.

If you wind back the clock to 2003, we can see that Dr Tony Tan also used “funny” numbers to try and fool Singaporeans. Back then, the PAP had wanted to cut the Employer CPF contribution. To justify this, Dr Tony Tan quoted a PERC study which showed that wages in Singapore were supposedly higher than the US and Australia !

Justice, democracy and nepotism

Hi,

Dear Mr. Tan

Some quotes you can use to complement your values of honesty, fairness, positive attitude, courage and public service.  The first two are famous quotes and I coined the next 3.

1) Not only must Justice be done; it must also be seen to be done. Justice delayed is justice denied.

2) Not only must democracy be done; it must also be seen to be done. Democracy perverted is democracy denied

3) Not only must nepotism/cronyism not be done; it must also be seen not to be done."

Ho Kah Fong

 

Local transport - urgent step for an integrated transport system

I have written to the Minister for Transport, Lui Tuck Yew, to consider developing local transport (to bring people from their home to MRT stations, bus interchanges and town centers) in an efficient and inexpensive manner. Details are set out in this paper.

These measures will encourage more car owners to use public transport and reduce the congestion on the roads. It will also provide employment opportunities for Singaporeans to operate local taxis and mini-buses.

The paper is reproduced below:

TKL Website, 15 May 2011

Local Transport
Local transport is an important component of an efficient transport system. It provides transport for short distances within a town and brings the residents from their homes to the town center, train station or bus interchange and back.

It should be inexpensive and convenient, with short waiting and travelling time. It will encourage car owners to opt for public transport, rather than use a car to commute to work.

Modes of transport
Local transport should use small vehicles, such as small buses or cars and should travel short distances of up to 3 km.

There can be many routes local bus services travelling to different parts of the town on fixed schedules. Most of the travels are likely to be to the town center for shopping or for transfers to long distance travel using buses or trains or back to the homes.

Local taxis can operate on flexible routes according to the needs of the commuters. They can be operated as a shared taxi to reduce the cost.

Regulatory requirements
The cost of local transport can be reduced through regulatory measures. The vehicle taxes can be reduced or
removed. Licenses can be issued liberally, so that market competition can reduce the cost and improve the quality of service provided of local transport. Insurance can be provided through central purchasing arranged by the local transport regulator. The regulator can also provide the central service of coordinating the services provided by the individual operators, matching supply and demand and communicating these services to the commuters.

The requirements to obtain a license as a local transport operator can be simplified compared to providing the
service over a entire city. The local operator needs only to know the road conditions and landmarks within the town.

Employment opportunities
Local transport can provide employment opportunities for older people who lose their jobs due to global competition. They can find alternative occupation and earn an income by providing service as a local transport operator.

Experience of other countries
Many large countries with towns in remote locations have developed practical systems of local transport. They provide a low cost service that meets the needs of the residents of the town.

Experience of Singapore
Singapore started as one town for the whole island. The concept of smaller towns in each part of Singapore was developed only during the past 20 years. To serve the expanding population, the strategy was to have a network of buses and trains that can bring people from any part of Singapore to another part. This strategy did not seem to work well, as many commuters find the transport system to be quite complicated. It is time to review the strategy and to develop the concept of local transport to serve each town and to have fast transport between the different towns.


Conclusion
An efficient feeder service to provide efficient and inexpensive transport within a town is an important
component of an efficient transport system that can serve all the towns in Singapore.
Tan Kin Lian

Conversion of Facebook account to a Page

I have now converted my Facebook account into a Facebook Page. My friends have now been transferred as fans in this page. This allows future fans to be registered automatically, without the need for my approval. With this change, my friends cannot send messages to me through Facebook. You can send messages (by e-mails) directly to me at kinlian(at)gmail.com.

Correction of Property Prices

Minister Khaw Boon Wan is taking bold steps to increase the supply of HDB flats (for sale and rental). I believe that the measures have the endorsement of PM Lee. I support this strategy.

Many people have expressed the view that these measures will result in a correction of property prices and that existing property owners (especially those who have bought the properties at the high prices) will be unhappy.

I wish to give the following views on why a correction in property prices will be for the long term benefit of Singaporeans.

a) Existing property owners can upgrade their homes at a lower cost
b) First time buyers (especially the young) will pay lower prices for their HDB flats
c) The correction does not affect existing property owners who have bought a single property for long term occupation
d) The property prices will eventually increase due to inflation and demand, but at a moderate rate (excluding the speculative factor)

The only negative factor is that a property owner may be unable to meet the mortgage payment (e.g. on loss of employment), resulting in a force sale of the property. In that situation, the property owner can switch to a new mortgage where the bank takes higher priority over the CPF savings. This will allow the bank to allow a temporary suspension of the mortgage payments, instead of making a false sale.

I have seen the price of my property fell by more than 30% during economic recessions or financial crisis. It did not last long. After a few years, the property prices recovered.

I believe that a correction of the property prices will be in the interest of Singaporeans in the long run. I want to encourage property owners to look at the prospect in a positive way. I also want to advise young Singaporeans not to pay high prices for your HDB flats or private properties now, as the prices are likely to  be lower in a few years time.

Tan Kin Lian

Report Abuses

Some blogs or websites have a feature to "Report Abuse". If you find any defamatory or insulting remarks against any candidate, you can use the "Report Abuse" to alert the blog owner. If more people take this action, it will make the blogs a cleaner place and a more respectable alternative media.

Promotion of TKL books - last 3 days

Enjoy attractive discounts and waiver of handling charge. Only 3 days left.
http://easyapps.sg/iShop2/Quantity.aspx?ID=4

Track record of Dr. Tony Tan

http://singstatistician.blogspot.com/2011/06/dr-tony-tan-participant-in-defamation.html

Now that Dr Tony Tan has formally announced his intention to contest in the Presidential Elections, it is timely to have a look at his track record when he was a political office holder. As he has had a long career as a PAP politician, it is not possible to fit all of the issues into a single blog posting. I will therefore be splitting up the discussion into several blog postings.

Shape Quiz - new layout

Here is a new layout for the shape quiz. It is easier for the public to practice their skills in forming the challenging shapes from the four pieces. Good for children, adults and seniors. This video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svVY82K0_iA explains how the puzzle can be solved. I am giving the puzzles for the events that I will be attending over the next few weeks.

Independence from political parties

Dear Mr. Tan
I am surprised at the statements from the government and Dr. Tony Tan - which seemed to be targeting you. I have known you to be a person who is pro-Singapore and also, at one time, pro-PAP. Although you are not pro-PAP now, you are also quite fair in your approach. Although you are willing to support the opposition parties, you cannot be considered to be anti-PAP. 

There is no need for the PAP should not target you or be afraid that you will be elected. The only reason I can think of their attitude is that they may have something to hide. Perhaps there are big losses in GIC or Temasek that they do not want you to find out. Is this the reason why they do not like you to be elected?

REPLY
I think that the GIC and Temasek have been quite transparent in reporting their losses during the global financial crisis and that the losses would probably have recovered by now I don't think that they are big losses to be hidden away.

I will try to be honest, fair and positive in my approach. I want to be independent and will support any policy (from any political party) that is good for the people of Singapore.

Smear in blog

Here is a smear against me by someone who is promoting another candidate. http://www.sammyboy.com/showthread.php?95763-Tan-Kin-Lian-Robin-Hood-Complex
If you disagree with the remarks, can you post your views in the blog?

Endorsement by Goh Meng Seng

http://singaporealternatives.blogspot.com/2011/06/elected-presidency-why-tan-kin-lian.html

Having said all these, Kin Lian is definitely not a Saint. He will have some shortcomings just like anybody else. But most importantly, in my opinion, after all the contacts I have made with him, I feel that he has the necessary qualities to be a good and effective President in performing the role of safeguarding our reserves. Someone who is fair minded but yet has the moral courage to stand up against all odds to ask the necessary and difficult questions. Up to the point of risking his own personal friendship with his ex-PAP colleagues, in safeguarding the interests of the People and the Nation.

Thus, my personal support of Mr. Tan Kin Lian in this Presidential Election.

Goh Meng Seng

Malicious smear

There is a malicious smear in a blog. I have given a reply. I post the smear and the reply here.

Anonymous said...

Hi, got to know this website through a fren's facebook.I must say that I am 100% kee Chiu on those negative comments on TKL. I once am a ex-income staff working in bras basah hq. Let me give some egs of TKL's tyrant acts. 1) staffs that has the same views with him gets promotion like rocket. If the staff is a pretty young women, she can get double promotions within a year. One such eg is the female manager from actuarial dept and also the female marketing manger. 2) Staffs who used to be his favorite right hand man was kicked away to other buildings away from hq dept. This is what has actually happen to risk dept head. 3) He is another durai(n/f). There is a swimming pool on level 6 of ntu income hq. His office is onthe same level. Every morning, he will be swimming while his staffs are working hard in the office. It is a common knowledge among female staffs not to swim in the pool as he will be sighted ard the pool. I have to state that i m a supporter for alternative voices in the parliment. Am stating these issues because I do not want singaporeans to vote for TKL then u will not just repent but also regret for next 5 years after presidential election. TKL is also another Taiwan ex-president in the making. If Papies are wrong in shielding "dunno what TPL is wrong, I'll still vote for Papies supported candidate rather than TKl.

24 June 2011 23:35

Tan Kin Lian said...

I am alerted to this malicious posting (23:35) and wish to present some facts:

a) Promotions, transfers and the few cases of staff termination are carried out in accordance to our staff process managed by the human resource department and the line managers. I am not personally involved, except to give approval for the major decisions. At the top management levels, I have to get the approval of the staff committee of the board of directors.

b) On the pretty young women that got double promotion in a year, perhaps the writer can send their names to me at kinlian@gmail.com. I do not recall of any specific person in this category. However, it may be possible for a few people (of both genders) to get double promotions in a year during the 30 years of my tenure. This is probably exceptional and I might not be the person responsible for the decision.

c) The swimming pool is on the roof (7th level). My office is on the 6th level. During the 20 years in the office, I might have used the pool a total of 20 times. I should have used it more for exercise, but could not find the time. The description of "every morning" is grossly exaggerated or deliberately mischievous.

Some people said that I should ignore these malicious smears, but I am told that it is being circulated by e-mail also. So, I might as well give a reply.

President as a unifying force

From the Straits Times: What do you think DPM Teo means when he says a president has to be ... a "unifying factor at a higher level for all Singaporeans"? 

Reply: I also agree that the President should be a unifying factor for all Singaporeans. This statement was first made by Dr. Tan Cheng Bock and I am happy to share the same sentiment. 

I believe that Singaporeans can be unified by sharing similar values. I want to encourage them to embrace the values of values of honesty, fairness, positive attitude, courage and public service. Many people have told me that they like these values and are happy to support them. 

My actions will be guided by these values. For example, I want to be honest and positive in expressing the concerns expressed by many Singaporeans about safeguarding their CPF savings and the reserves of Singapore. I want to help to address their concerns can be addressed in a constructive way. One way is for the President's Office to issue an annual report that the citizens can understand. This will help in the communication and educating the citizens.

I also shared my views about public service - to address the concerns expressed by many Singaporeans about the high salaries earned by the top leaders, including the President. I want them to know that I am not contesting this office for the high remuneration and will be willing to donate a significant part of the President's salary towards charity, if I am elected. (I hope that my personal views on this issue does not cause any discomfort to other government leaders - as I recognise that they have financial needs and priorities that are different from me). 

I respect and support the timely action taken by the Prime Minister to set up a review committee to review the salaries of the top leaders and hope that it will, to a large degree, address this concern of the people. I will do my best to get the people to understand and accept the positive actions that are being taken now.

I believe that the people of Singapore will feel engaged, committed and proud to be Singaporeans, if they feel that they have a voice and that it is being heard. I hope that the office of the President can play a part to provide this channel - although I recognise that other channels are also being developed. To support this initiative, I have suggested the concept of the President's personal council - which I will be giving more 

thought to in the weeks ahead. 

Tan Kin Lian

Survey - 3 candidate contest

Contesting the Presidential Election

Some people commented in some blogs that it would have been better for me to participate in the general election, rather than the presidential election. I like to explain my decision.

I did not want to contest the general election as I did not like to spend time to run a town council, if I were elected. I was also not yet ready to join any of the political parties – until their leaders agreed to merge and build their membership base.

Initially, I did not want to contest the presidential election either. I changed my mind after receiving requests from many people to stand and offer them a chance to vote. (They said that I was one of the few non-PAP people that might be able to get the certificate of eligibility).

After Dr. Tan Cheng Bock expressed interest, I decided also to join in. My reasoning was that it would be difficult for the “powers” to disqualify both candidates but it would be easier for them to find the reason to disqualify a single candidate.

I acknowledge that I do not have the same “class” or “charisma” as Dr. Tony Tan. If that is what the people of Singapore wants, I would be quite happy to lose the election.

I can only offer to the people the chance to vote for a candidate who is willing to listen to the people and reflect their aspirations, have an independent approach to the decisions that have to be made by the President’s office (i.e. does not need to be confrontational to the Government) and able to use my knowledge to safeguard their CPF money and the national reserves.

Some people may prefer some other candidates and not me, but that is all right. There is really no need for them to insult me or smears my character or reputation. (I refer to defamatory remarks and smears posted against me in some blogs or websites or being circulated by e-mail. I hope that right minded people will stop these bad behavior.)

Tan Kin Lian

Statements in Chinese

Here are the translations of my statements in Chinese.
http://www.easyapps.sg/tklep/Information.aspx?CatID=3

Presidential Election 2011

Do you prefer to see a contest between 3 candidates or to see 1 candidate withdraw for a straight fight between 2 candidates? Give your views in this poll.

The Clash of the Tri-Tans

http://politicalwritings.wordpress.com/2011/06/24/the-clash-of-the-tri-tans/

A comment:
TKL will forever be the foremost servant of the Citizens. The others may be servant now but your Master later upon being elected just like their past political cohorts have amply demonstrated. SO VOTE FOR THE TRUE ELECTORATE SERVANT, TKL.

Tan Kin Lian for President Website

If you wish to know about my statements issued in connection with my candidature, please go to www.easyapps.sg/tklep and click on the "Information" tab. If you wish to make a donation or send an endorsement, you can click on the appropriate tab at the website. Thank you for your support.

www.easyapps.sg/tklep

Holding the second key

Dear Mr Tan

I am glad someone has seen through Dr Tony Tan's proposed candidacy.  He held the first key for a long time until he relinquished it very recently with a view to getting hold of the second key.  Will a holder of the first key, should he be elected the President and become the holder of the second key, uncover his own past sin (if any) while being the holder of the first key?  Do Singaporeans want to give a past holder of the first key the second key now and be none the wiser?       
Singapore needs to make a different choice!
LXH


Dear Mr. Tan

Dr. Tony Tan as Elected President is like appointing the Chief Financial Officer of a company after his immediate resignation to become its External Auditor. What do you think?

TSL

Statement - Role of the Government

Over the past few days, several citizens have expressed concern on the stand taken by the Singapore Police Force regarding the disposal of a bomb found in a private property. The Police had expected the owner to engage a private contractor to remove the bomb.

A few months ago, a citizen shared that he had lodged a report to the Police about the loud noise made by a specific car regularly in the early morning. Instead of dealing with the noise, the Police asked him to lodge the complaint to the Land Transport Authority (who was in charge of the roads) and if, it no action was taken, to report to the Environment Agency (for noise pollution).

A week ago, the media was abuzz with the public uproar over the high prices indicated by the private developers of the Centrale 8 DBSS project at Tampines Central. The public was particularly upset over the government's explanation that DBSS is not HDB and that pricing is the prerogative of the private developers.

Concerns of the citizens
These examples point to four major areas of concern, which I share:-

1. Fragmentation of the government duties: it seemed that some government agencies are unwilling to deal with an issue that falls on the margin and are trying to push the responsibility to another agency
2. Deterioration of standards: There will be a drop in standards, especially in security and safety, if important matters are not properly attended by the government
3. Higher cost to the citizens: When citizens are expected to engage the private sector to carry out services that could be more efficiently handled by the public sector, the total cost must increase.
4. Breach of Social Contract: Having collected taxes and levies and being elected by the people, there is the expectation that the government will deliver the appropriate services to the people, instead of pushing back to them.

Role of the Government
I echo the sentiments of the citizens and ask the Government to recognize its duty to provide the appropriate level of public service in an efficient manner and reduce the overall cost of the nation.

I also ask the various government agencies to work together in a coordinated manner to carry out these duties. Where the responsibility is not clear, it is better for the agencies to sort out the matter internally, rather than push the problem to the citizens.

Tan Kin Lian

Food of thought - the Presidential image

Dear Mr. Tan,
Many people consider Dr. Tony Tan to have the "Presidential" image. I wish to point out that President Nathan also had that image for the past 12 years. 

While it is good for Singapore, this are other important duties of the office as well. It is now time to have a fresh image, of a President that reflects the aspirations of the people. 


Mr, Tan, you can bring a fresh new image to the office, and I urge you to stand for the election, and not be deterred by Dr. Tony Tan's "Presidential" image, as many of my friends like to see a change.

The first and second key

Someone pointed out to me that Dr. Tony Tan was involved in holding the first key, i.e. to invest the money of the GIC. It will be difficult for him now to hold the second key- as it is a conflict of interest. There is merit in this argument although it may be possible for Dr. Tony Tan to be independent in his approach when he changes his role. But it is a difficult question for the voters to decide if this is possible.

Volunteers for Tan Kin Lian for President

I appreciate the many spontaneous responses of many people offering to support me in the Presidential Election campaign. Please provide your particulars in this form, so that my campaign director can contact you. I apologise for the lengthy form, as the information is needed for the planning of the activities. Thank you for your support.

 Register here

Ages of the candidates

A young supporter sent this message to me.
Mr.Tan, two candidates are 71 years old. You are 63 years old. I prefer a younger candidate, but if there is none, I will vote for you.


Note: Mr. Ong Teng Cheong was 57 when he became President. He completed his office at age 63.

Dr. Tony Tan's participation in the Presidential Election

Statement by Tan Kin Lian
http://www.easyapps.sg/tklep/Frame.aspx?ID=29


I welcome the decision by Dr. Tony Tan to contest the Presidential Election. His participation will give a wider range of choices for the people of Singapore.

Dr. Tony Tan has been closely connected with the PAP Government for about 20 years. He had served as a cabinet minister in many ministries during his illustrious political career and had been closely associated with many of the policies that were implemented by the Government. He would represent a good choice for Singaporeans who prefer to see continuity in the past and current policies of the Government.

I will participate in the election to offer a different choice to the people. I have never served as a Member of Parliament or a Cabinet Minister in the Government. Over the past years, I have expressed my views on many occasions in the media and through other channels on issues concerning the livelihood and welfare of the people.

I believe that I am in closer touch with the ordinary people in Singapore and can get a better sense of their views and aspirations. I would be able to reflect these aspirations in exercising the powers of the President in safeguarding the assets and the CPF savings and other duties of the office. In particular, I would be able to provide a different perspective and act independently of the Government in the decisions that have to be made by the President. 

In carrying out these duties, I will be guided by my values of honesty, fairness, positive attitude, courage and public service and by the views of the people that I will actively seek.

Tan Kin Lian

Contest of the Tri-Tans (not Titans)

Somebody said that this election is a contest of the Tri-Tans - Tan Cheng Bock, Tan Kin Lian and Tony Tan. It is not a contest of the Titans - because I represent the small guys.

Moscow Night - a Russian song

I wish to dedicate this song to the international community in Singapore, including our new citizens and permanent residents.

Cooperative Study Tour to India

I joined the study tour to India organised by the Singapore Cooperative Movement. I was fascinated by the beauty of India. Here is a group photo in front of the Taj Mahal. 

I also got to know many leaders of the cooperative movement personally during the trip. Many served their cooperative society and members with dedication for many years.

President Ong and the Singapore Dance Theatre

President Ong Teng Cheong was the founder Patron of the Singapore Dance Theatre. He asked me to serve in the Board of Directors of SDT. I held this position for more than 10 years but retired a few years ago. 

President Ong promoted the Singapore  Dress (based on the Orchid motif). He is willing the orchid motif dress. The other people in the picture are Daniel Teo (director) and Goh Siew Khim (founder and artistic director).

Budget for Election Campaign

I expect the budget for the election campaign to be $100,000 to $200,000.  I will personally contribute to a significant part of the expenses, but I like to give the chance for my supporters and well wishers to have the opportunity to take a stake in the future of Singapore. I invite you to make a donation here.

The appeal letter reads as follows:



Be a Stakeholder in Singapore's Political Future:
Appeal for Donation

This year’s Presidential Election promises to be a step forward in the development of our political system. For the first time, several credible candidates, including myself, have declared their intention to contest. This will be only the second time since the implementation of Elected Presidency that Singaporeans would be given the opportunity to vote. I believe that all citizens and organisations will welcome this positive development of our Nation’s political landscape.

Candidates for the Presidential Election are expected not to have any political affiliation. They will have to depend on friends and volunteers to help them in getting their messages to the people. However, it would be very costly to reach out to one million households out there. For a fair scrutiny by our citizens, candidates should be able to reach out directly to our voters by their own means without being over dependent on the media.

If I am elected as the President, I like to be able to work in full co-operation with the Government, but I will be guided by my five values of Honesty, Fairness, Positive Approach, Courage and Public Service. I will at all times also be guided by the views of the people, which I will actively seek. My statements and views can be found here: http://www.easyapps.sg/tklep/Information.aspx

In the spirit of allowing active citizenry to grow, I am writing this appeal to you to make a donation to my campaign costs. By making a donation to my campaign, you will be taking an active step forward to become stakeholders of our Nation’s political development process. No amount is too small or obviously, too large. All expenses will be properly accounted for and will be audited. Please indicate whether you wish to be acknowledged publicly or wish to be listed as “Anonymous”. See http://www.easyapps.sg/tklep/Donate.aspx

I hope you will see fit to contribute. Even if you do not, I hope you will consider voting for me when the time comes. Thanking you in advance.

Tan Kin Lian

Donations for the campaign

The contribution to the election campaign has been slow. I hope that more people will come forward and give their financial support. 

Presidential Election - split of votes

Someone made this observation. The two Dr.Tans will split the 60% pro-PAP vote and get 30% each. TKL will get the non-PAP vote of 40% and win the election. But other people think that that Dr. Tan Cheng Bock will be able to attract the non-PAP vote as well, and win with 50%! Right now, he is leading the latest poll. What do you think?

Line Dance World Record 2002

Here is a video of the event, where the World record was broken in 2002.

Line dancing - Guiness world record

 More than 10,000 line dancers performed a dance "Rasa Sayang" at a single location - and achieved a Guiness world record for Singapore. Congratulations to Peter Ng for organizing the event.

It was fun, but I forgot the steps now.

Here is  a video of the event where the world record was broken in 2002,