Dengue cluster at Farrer Road condo

Straits Times, 16 June 2006

12 CASES have been found in Farrer Court Condo and 5 others at nearby Victoria Park homes. I find it infuriating and disappointing that people have disregarded repeated reminders through media and fliers to empty flower pot plates, pails, plant bowls, vases and air-con and dish trays to stop dengue fever. They have behaved so irresponsibly by causing other innocent parties to fall ill. The National Environment Agency found 16 breeding grounds where 15 were indoors! I was aghast at the large number. Officers found 443 larvae in the breeding sites located about 500metres separated away. I do not understand why these people are so obstinate to see the health dangers their care-less behaviour leads to. I feel that the government has done well by fining these people.

More families using English at home

Straits Times, 15 June 2006

FINALLY the importance of mastering English language has been emphasized again. I feel that it is good that more people and families divert to speaking English as this language is the most common form of communication worldwide whether in business or studies. Among the Chinese families, the proportion speaking English at home increased by 5% in 5 yrs. Among Malays, it was 6% and in Indian families, 3%. It is encouraging for the future of Sinagpore to hear that the population of chinese, malays and indians have become better-educated with Singapore residents working longer hours. This looks bright for the future of our young nation.

Blogger who posted cartoons of Christ online being investigated

Straits Times, 13 June 2006

IT is saddening to hear that many people are misusing blogs. The airing of their personal views have become offensive and insulting to readers. I feel disappointed that people have gotten themselves involved with the law as a reult of uncensored writing. The number of youths being charged for posting unsightful remarks or pictures on their blogs has increased. This has also caught the attention of many elders. I find it interesting on how fast news travels from a person's website/online diary (diary) to the media. Indeed this shows that technology has improved so rapidly that righteous social issues do get neglected. However, i feel that one must not generalize all bloggers are insensitive when writing their views. Hence, i feel respect is an important factor here.

Disabled climbers to scale Mt Kinabalu - with help

Straits Times, 12 June 2006

I AM proud of these people who are determined to prove themselves against discrimination. I believe they have set a great example to other disabled people that they can still do the same things that able-bodied people do. I am very encouraged by the spirit they hole by climbing these mountains. Although climbing is dangerous for Ms Leong since she cannot hear her other teammates calling for her, she has successfully climbed Mt Kinabalu. Thumbs up for her. Her courage and determination has dispelled the notion that disabled people should not try and be adventurous. There is even so much more motivation to those who have tried and not stepped out of their comfort zones when people are still calling up to join climbing expeditions for the disabled after organisations closed applications after 2 months. I believe Singapore needs more of these adventurous people to stand up for their beliefs that rids of discrimination.