Chan Seng Hoong and Teo Jun Jie
Chan Seng Hoong:
When I was young, life was so wonderful and interesting. I remember seeing a crocodile lying in the garden in my home, seeing predatory birds picking off chicks and being chased by cockerels. Fortunately, my hero father came to my rescue! Good old days that is non-existent now!
Those were the days when children played and enjoyed with friends of all races. Later in the 60’s, things began to change. School was suspended for a few days and then Chinese and Malay children played separately. This was the result of racial riots. We were told to bring our own favourite canned food to be kept in the classroom cupboards for contingency purposes. The situation improved over the years.
In the University, I got to learn more about modern-day Singapore and better understand the tough approach of the government to ensure Singapore’s survival and well-being. Singapore is very fortunate in having competent and far-sighted leaders.
In my working life, I had learnt to be pragmatic and learnt lessons which my teachers were unable to teach. Working hard was important but risk-taking has to be taken to ensure financial independence after employment. Work hard and think carefully. Your future is in your hands!
Through the years, I was living in an environment created by good government and it cannot be taken for granted as I have seen bad ones in other countries. Hopefully, the favourable environment persists. Majulah PAP, Majulah Singapura!
Teo Jun Jie:
Looking back, growing up years were fun. Met many friends (of various backgrounds and races) in school. Played together and helped one another. I remembered how a friend trained in Silat helped me in my fitness.
#1: Got to know more people. Make friends and have fun. Everyone is different and would complement in ways we never imagined. Food is never an issue - simplicity is good. Dad had a motorbike and once in a while, he would give me a ride to try out food around Singapore. I had many favourites: wanton mee, satay, mutton soup, chicken rice, carrot cake, nasi lemak and more… Singapore is small but no lack of pleasant simple surprises.
#2: Keep an open mind, always try out new things. Add colour to life. Work well for food but certainly other aspects too. Parents worked hard and saved up. Not rich but we managed to have overseas trips to countries in the region. Family time together in a foreign land is always fun - see and try new things.
#3: Need not be rich. But having savings is a virtue. Savings allow us to do things that would be impossible if we don’t save. Same for country as it is for individuals. Growing up - in school, in my travels and in my interaction with people beyond my household, I see and appreciate that the world is big. More people and vastly different situations. Not everyone is as fortunate as us. We are better as a whole if more people have it better.
#4: Always appreciate what we have. It is our good fortune to be able to give something to help - be it effort or money. Every bit counts. I always enjoy reading (books, ebooks, articles, etc.). It is fun to get to know new things and be fascinated by them. The world is so big but our time and resources are limited, and we can’t possible travel the whole world. So, read widely.
#5: Tap on the wisdom and experiences of others through their written works and insights. Always seek knowledge and learn as much as possible.