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Tuesday, July 04, 2006
browncast: I am Singaporean
National Day is coming soon, so I thought it would be nice to record a message for the occasion.
We were inspired by the Molson beer "I am Canadian" commercial (this is the video from Youtube), and we borrowed the music from the Battlestar Galactica Season 2 soundtrack, a track called "Reuniting the Fleet".
If you like, you can record your own version of "I am Singaporean" and post it on your blog, and leave a link in the comments in there. You can also tag it iamsingaporean and entitle it "I am Singaporean".
Audio file for the mrbrown show 4 July 2006: I am Singaporean
(MP3, File size: 2.7mb, Time: 00:01:56)
Subscribe to the podcast feed here.
(Or click here to subscribe via iTunes)
Technorati tags: singapore, mrbrown, podcast, podcasting iamsingaporean
Tuesday, July 4, 2006 at 10:00 AM in Podcast, Popular | Permalink
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Comments
Amazing :)
Posted by: HX | Jul 4, 2006 10:18:14 AM
"so say we all"
Well said
LOL
Posted by: Mr Yellow | Jul 4, 2006 10:21:16 AM
YES!
WE ARE SINGAPOREANS. That's why we speak.
A right we are entitled from birth. A right we exchanged for taking all that misery in our stride.
Let no one forget that.
Bravo, MB. Compelling and honest.
Posted by: Wisdom | Jul 4, 2006 10:21:17 AM
Interestingly you posted this on the fourth of July. America's Independence Day.
Posted by: HX | Jul 4, 2006 10:23:12 AM
U represent all citizens outside of the Govt offices
Posted by: Franklin | Jul 4, 2006 10:24:06 AM
Disappointed with the Government. Where is the Singapore spirit in the PAP?
Look at the WP; How they really say the pledge with their hearts in the Serangoon Stadium. How we Singaporeans became real Singaporeans finally after authoritarian rule since 1970s.
Remember how Lee Kuan Yew said Merdeka! Singapore had a hope finally.
Remember how WP said the pledge with 100,000 Singaporeans
"To build a democratic society, based on justice and equality"
Singapore now have a hope. But can we be less forgetful?
Posted by: vv | Jul 4, 2006 10:32:38 AM
"So say we all!" well put indeed..we got your back,dawg!
Posted by: Ian | Jul 4, 2006 10:42:49 AM
So say we all.
Posted by: Dragonknight | Jul 4, 2006 10:58:41 AM
Very da powerful, man!
Posted by: X-MAN | Jul 4, 2006 10:58:51 AM
I am Singaporean and I love my country.
I am Singaporean and I will talk about things I’m unhappy about.
I am Singaporean and I want the best for this nation.
I am Singaporean and I matter even though the gahmen doesn’t think so.
So say we all!
Posted by: Desmond Lim | Jul 4, 2006 11:08:13 AM
My greatest respect to you brown. Good show.
Posted by: "Dr." Bob | Jul 4, 2006 11:11:21 AM
so touching... & well said.
Posted by: Jenny | Jul 4, 2006 11:19:50 AM
I pay income tax
I pay CPF
I pay fines
and I am a singapore PR.
Posted by: "Dr." Bob | Jul 4, 2006 11:21:21 AM
So say we all! Very touching..
Posted by: ccx2 | Jul 4, 2006 11:22:59 AM
So Say We All!
Posted by: lubber_duckie | Jul 4, 2006 11:31:25 AM
wah thats classy!
Posted by: hobo | Jul 4, 2006 11:40:10 AM
I am with you!
Posted by: SneeringTree | Jul 4, 2006 11:47:58 AM
So say We ALL! Long Live Mr. Brown!
Posted by: Shan | Jul 4, 2006 12:04:13 PM
So Say We all... Keep on Blogging...
Posted by: Daryl | Jul 4, 2006 12:45:24 PM
Yeah!
Chuck that pledge about progress, justice and equality into the dustbin.
We have a new pledge - so say we all!!!!
Singaporeans are not anonymous... you choose not to hear and see us.
Posted by: anon | Jul 4, 2006 12:59:50 PM
We may not always be seen because there are those who refuse to acknowledge our existence. But, we want to be heard. We have a voice and we are definitely not anonymous. We are citizens of this country, of this land that we call Home.
So say we all! I salute you MB. An honest, true and sincere podcast.
Posted by: Skipper | Jul 4, 2006 2:00:53 PM
That's a great response to MICA's eager beaver.
So say we all!
Posted by: NoHarmDone | Jul 4, 2006 2:08:41 PM
Before one of us goes out on a limb and starts proposing T-shirt designs based on this very inspiring podcast, let me first point all our loyal listeners to the right direction:
http://www.cafepress.com/filmfodder.34409028
It's out there, at about 36 bucks a piece. Wear it proud and say it loud.
Posted by: halozero | Jul 4, 2006 2:21:41 PM
nice one. :) rock on!
Posted by: in_brisbane | Jul 4, 2006 2:53:13 PM
So tocuhing.. Almost cried
Keep up your good work mb...
So say we all.
Posted by: Jc | Jul 4, 2006 3:05:32 PM
Thats a very good one, better than any bloody establishment GE speech.
Posted by: playtime | Jul 4, 2006 3:09:59 PM
I am going down to Worker's Party HQ to join as volunteer. It maybe is a small role but at least I play a role and contribute instead of just using Petitions, forums, blogs etc. Real Action is needed..... Anybody wants to join me ??
The Workers' Party Open House :Time: 8 - 9.30pm:Venue: 216 G, #02-03, Syed Alwi Road:Every Monday
Posted by: Alicia Teo | Jul 4, 2006 3:13:49 PM
http://sarekhome.myphotoalbum.com/albums.php
http://s2.photobucket.com/albums/y29/vnc2005/misc/
http://www.petitiononline.com/LUPtoAll/petition.html
http://forums.delphiforums.com/kelongsg/messages
http://forums.delphiforums.com/sammyboymod/messages
http://onlinehammer.proboards76.com/index.cgi
Posted by: XXX | Jul 4, 2006 3:15:37 PM
very touching and honourable indeed. u have my deepest respect.
"so say we all"
Posted by: blink * | Jul 4, 2006 3:31:36 PM
I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR I WANT ZHNG MY CAR
Posted by: milk | Jul 4, 2006 3:41:43 PM
this podcast touch my soul.
so say we all!
Posted by: bookie | Jul 4, 2006 3:53:19 PM
Very touching!!! Keep up the good work!!!
"So say we all" !!!!!
Posted by: teocs | Jul 4, 2006 3:53:31 PM
Absolutely, positively inspiring mb!
I almost wanted run out, hire a truck, put some MB flags on it and then blast your podcast thru loudhailers in the heartlands. (btw, can you do this in Chinese, Malay & Tamil as well?)
Seriously, I feel ya bro, you captured our sentiments! Thanks for the balls and the Spirit!
Posted by: mystivan | Jul 4, 2006 3:55:18 PM
Dear MB
I totally share your sentiment on reservist duty:
"I hate reservist, but I still go anyway..."
This year will be my 10th and final In-Camp Training (ICT) before I am transferred to Mindef Reserve.
Looking back, my years of reservist was worth the time, energy and frustration not for some ideal of patriotism but for real people like my parents, siblings, spouse and down-to-earth Singaporeans like you and your family.
I still hate the way the SAF functions as a totalitarian bureaucracy, but have mellowed to know it was for something.
The PAP continues to seek power to protect the system that provides the maximum economic rewards to its selected elite while using state apparatus to restrict the political space open to ordinary Singaporeans. Ordinary Singaporeans are starting to see the social compact unravelling as clear self-interests to the ruling elite overcomes social justice and equality for the proletariat.
Posted by: lunatic_fringe | Jul 4, 2006 4:06:40 PM
touching, inspiring, excellent piece of work! mica hear this!!
Posted by: sake_man | Jul 4, 2006 4:14:25 PM
Mr Brown, my eyes well.
I decided not only to wear the top brown, I'm buying brown bottoms (even I dislike brown jeans). I decided not to print "turkwa". "come into mr brown's land at.." will be more appropriate then the back will read "www.mrbrown.com". If what I wore will warrant an arrest, will MB supporters come and bail me out. I have many mouth to feed. Cannot go without a job. I am truly being taxed dry.
There's sadness in your tone, you should not - or we will cry with you.
Posted by: timPAP | Jul 4, 2006 4:49:10 PM
"so say we all", I am singaporean too... Happy birthday Singapore!
Posted by: Jiraiya2005 | Jul 4, 2006 4:50:13 PM
don't say I never say so say we all!
Posted by: Black | Jul 4, 2006 4:50:23 PM
So say we all.
Thank you, Mr. Brown and God bless *sniff*
Posted by: Trish R | Jul 4, 2006 4:51:29 PM
It's funny how I felt more patriotic towards the flawed characters and governence in Battlestar Galactica The Reimagined Series than... never mind.
So say we all.
Posted by: barffie | Jul 4, 2006 4:57:55 PM
wow. you should be the next mao zhi dong!
okay no lah, joking..
SO SAY WE ALL! that made me love singapore x100! =D
Posted by: guinevere | Jul 4, 2006 4:59:05 PM
So say we all.....
My flag wont be flying this year.
What say you?
Posted by: Franklin | Jul 4, 2006 5:35:31 PM
So when u running for elections? lol....
Posted by: DK | Jul 4, 2006 5:38:12 PM
nice one dude.
and we don't bet for the world cup games.
so say we all...
Posted by: sggooner | Jul 4, 2006 5:47:12 PM
I'm touched. Truly. Inspiring is what I'll call it. Sharp and witty and will simply touch the nerve in every Singaporean's heart.
Posted by: JL | Jul 4, 2006 5:53:41 PM
Ha... "I love the national flag even though I don't always put it up WHEN I AM ASKED TO. "
I am singaporean, I like to be confused into making payments:
I love being fined because half the car park area around my block suggests a fine on sundays & public hols, and the other half is free.
I am singaporean, I like to be confused into making payments:
I don't know how much I pay a month for medisave, medishield or even how many CPF is split into the 2 plans of investments my Gov was referring to. But I contribute anyway.
I am singaporean, I like to be confused into making payments:
I borrow a car for 10 years and pay for the OMV, RF, ARF, PARF, COE, Road Tax, Insurance, ERP, Season Parking and so on. I don't know exactly how it goes about but I know the end result is a hole in the pocket.
I am singaporean, I like to be confused into making payments:
I get a government scholarship and further my education, but realise I have to make payment by signing a 3-5 yr bond with them and watch my close friend with her Australian Gov scholarship pay for her $80,000 education without any bond. I enjoy watching her get her AUD$2,200 allowance each month as well.
I am singaporean, I like to be confused into making payments:
I am amazed at how easy it looks to buy a house with so much support from the gov. I buy one and I feel honoured to be part of a paying scheme for the rest of my life. I feel secure that the gov protects "my" house by not allowing much renovation to be done because the building still belongs to them.
I am Singaporean. So Suay We All.
Posted by: Marcus Tang | Jul 4, 2006 6:07:32 PM
Ten Reasons Why I Am Singaporean
1.I live in a HDB flat.
2.I have served my National Service
3.I understand that a melting pot of rojak is nothing if we don't have all the ingredients inside.
4.I love my chicken rice.
5.I believe that we can still be a success story, if we use more of our common sense.
6.I don't have enough common sense.
7.I was brought up to eat prata, drink oolong teh, listen to Guns and Roses and watch Japanese anime.
8.I may not speak Mandarin that well, but I can speak one dialect.
9.I know that many of us are silent, but it doesn't mean they don't care.
10.I want to believe in my fellow citizens, and I hope I am right.
Well, I planned to set out twenty reasons, however, for the life of me, I only could ratch up ten reasons.
So say most of us la.
Posted by: selfrevolution | Jul 4, 2006 6:24:19 PM
shame on you mica. what type of 'communication' ministry is this?
brown, count me in. so say we all!
Posted by: beat sg | Jul 4, 2006 6:32:47 PM
Nice podcast ! So Say We All !
Haha, seems like Mr Brown is a Battlestar Galactica fan too, judging from the soundtrack and the "So Say We All" line at the end !! ^5
Posted by: kns | Jul 4, 2006 6:53:04 PM
That's the classiest response ever mb.
Classiest.
So say we all.
Posted by: V | Jul 4, 2006 7:01:24 PM
So say we all!!
Posted by: sbkoh | Jul 4, 2006 7:46:20 PM
SO SAY WE ALL!
Posted by: zhihao | Jul 4, 2006 7:51:44 PM
why must wait until PAP ask us to speak up then we speak up?
Why everything must wait for our government to tell us ?
They tell us to speak up , we speak up, they tell us to shut up , we shut.
Are Singaporeans performing seals in Singapore Zoo?
Give one or two fish, we must perform liao?
Do not wait for people to tell you then do, speak up when you feel like it and make some action when you feel like it.
Nobody can help you in these matters.
If you want to change things and change Singapore's culture, you have to contribute.
PAP must go and eat humble pie for 20 years.
Posted by: KL | Jul 4, 2006 8:06:25 PM
This podcast is lovely, straight to the point.
Posted by: Chia Kia Hwee | Jul 4, 2006 8:08:20 PM
Who say journalist cannot influence politics?
Look at ST and other major language newspaper perform at each election? They are god damn Pro PAP and Anti- Opposition
It is PAP that is seditious.
They politicise business, GLCs,
community centres, grassroots, RCs,
Singapore's money,upgrading,
elections, Elected Presidency, civil service,
unions, convenience stores, pawnshops,
even kindergartens, they also want to politicise...what the hell
PAP is the one politicising everything, not Mr Brown.
Please get your facts right ,Bhavani.
Posted by: jack | Jul 4, 2006 8:12:52 PM
haha... i rather not touch on the sensitive topic. but hor!!! joy looks so much like isaac now!!! haha...
Posted by: kierra | Jul 4, 2006 8:21:18 PM
Very touching. Yes i do find it very touching. It made tears to my eyes listening. I have followed your blog since the starting of this year. I have not made any comments but this really bring tears to my eyes. Your words are very true. I hope government understand us, the normal citizens, better other than the fact that they said they "know" on papers or sppeches etc.
So say we all!
Posted by: StudentInBeatty | Jul 4, 2006 8:26:24 PM
So say me too, so say me too. Except for the vulgarities, you can be sure of my every support, as you voice the TRUE feelings and sentiments of us the heartlanders. i feel real sad that the Government should choose to respond this way to any one who disagrees with them or say things they don't like to hear. But so what if the K Bhavani responds this way. Let's be true and honest to ourselves, our families, our friends, our fellow Singaporeans whom we know to feel as such. Press on, Kin Mun, Press on.
Posted by: Beng Hwee | Jul 4, 2006 8:40:40 PM
..so say we all..~
Posted by: BugSy | Jul 4, 2006 8:45:51 PM
Why nobody do something like this for Malaysia? sadness....
Btw well said, i was touched by it even though im malaysian
Posted by: Tienacious | Jul 4, 2006 8:48:03 PM
As I listened to the message, I felt a stir in my heart. It was touching and patriotic. Perhaps the govt should take time out to listen to the ordinary folks, to understand what we really want.
Posted by: GH | Jul 4, 2006 8:59:55 PM
First thing first. Mr Brown, you have done a wonderful message right there. A very humorous message with a powerful meaning to it. A job well done.
But sadly. Will we ever have the chance to say it all to the government? Even if we do, will they ever listen?
I would like to leave you a quote from "V for Vendetta".
"People should not be afraid of their governments. Governments should be afraid of their people."
Cheers.
Posted by: Crimson | Jul 4, 2006 9:04:36 PM
Say you, say me; say it for always
Thats the way it should be
Say you, say me; say it together
Naturally
I had a dream I had an awesome dream
People in the park playing games in the dark
And what they played was a masquerade
And from behind of walls of doubt a voice was crying out
Say you, say me... (chorus)
As we go down lifes lonesome highway
Seems the hardest thing to do is to find a friend or two
A helping hand - some one who understands
That when you feel youve lost your way
Youve got some one there to say Ill show you
(chorus)
So you think you know the answers - oh no
couse the whole world has got you dancing
Thats right - Im telling you
Its time to start believing - oh yes
Believing who you are: you are a shining star
(chorus)
Say it together... naturally.
SO SAY WE ALL~!
Posted by: Ronnie | Jul 4, 2006 9:14:52 PM
To quote you, mr brown, "I hear already my bak sai also lao, man."
SO SAY WE ALL!
Posted by: 燕子 | Jul 4, 2006 9:19:34 PM
Cool Stuff. So say we all....
Posted by: Esael | Jul 4, 2006 9:24:12 PM
And I thought you will take it lying down.
Ha. This is classic!
Posted by: Tigger | Jul 4, 2006 9:26:51 PM
Come on Worker's Party,
Gather a fellowship of 84 brave souls and end this nonsense once and for all in GE 2011.
You have my vote.
Posted by: Scholar | Jul 4, 2006 9:37:52 PM
Dear MB,
Hide behind a pseudonym you surely did not and certainly will not, coz all we say so!
Posted by: Yo_Ji | Jul 4, 2006 9:38:42 PM
...
you're f-king brillant.
Posted by: Qinghui | Jul 4, 2006 9:52:00 PM
So say we all!
Posted by: stan | Jul 4, 2006 10:01:37 PM
I am touched with your sense of patriotism which I find in your words. I am really doubtful that few in the civil sector now share your feelings for your country.
Posted by: Denzuko1 | Jul 4, 2006 10:02:21 PM
SO SAY WE ALL!
Posted by: yakybobo | Jul 4, 2006 10:03:04 PM
Mr Brown aka Lee Kin Mun . Who says your name is anonymous? Who says you are hiding behind a pseudonym? You are who you are. So say we all.
Posted by: TheRealAnonymous | Jul 4, 2006 10:05:43 PM
I still cant get over this fact that this is a very touching podcast. I can't help listening it over and over again and crying out loud.
Posted by: StudentInBeatty | Jul 4, 2006 10:09:05 PM
classic. simply classic.
Posted by: hugewhaleshark | Jul 4, 2006 10:12:39 PM
All tok so much.....
In time of WAR, all like tortise, head inside shell esp rich & powrful ppls first 1 2 run.
Posted by: p.o.d. | Jul 4, 2006 10:20:11 PM
I actually cried listening to this podcast. Who dares to suggest you distort the truth.
Posted by: Lincoln | Jul 4, 2006 10:20:45 PM
*sniffs* *wipes tear from eye*
So say me also!
Posted by: Ruok | Jul 4, 2006 10:32:41 PM
When I read that Bhavani's letter on your blog, my heart bled for you when she made a personal attack on you. I have an autistic nephew, I know how is it like to have the whole family struggle financially, physically and mentally for this special kid.
Tears welled up when I hear this podcast.
I think the government, especially Bhavani, owes you an official apology.
Posted by: wee | Jul 4, 2006 10:47:35 PM
We, the citizens of Singapore,
pledge ourselves as one united people,
regardless of race, language or religion,
to build a democratic society
based on justice and equality
so as to achieve happiness, prosperity and
progress for our nation.
Posted by: d8nnis | Jul 4, 2006 10:48:27 PM
Haha so many 'support mrbrown' comments. Well mrbrown is juz part of what we're supporting: FREEDOM OF SPEECH!
Posted by: supremefart | Jul 4, 2006 10:48:40 PM
Well done! mr brown. How do you come with these stuff!
"...becos I teared parking coupon based on carpark timezone, which is ten minutes faster than local time..." LOL!!!
"....I have a blog but I am not anonymous. My name is Lee Kin Mun. My name is mr brown and I am a Singaporean..." THIS IS DAMN GOOD and OF COURSE THE CLASSIC "so say we all"
I think I listened more than 10x. This made my day!
HushBrownish
Posted by: Mr Brownish | Jul 4, 2006 10:53:47 PM
So say we all!
Posted by: Rodman | Jul 4, 2006 10:54:29 PM
Your patriotism is something campaign after government campaign has tried to capture. It's what mainstream journalists have tried to pin down in their simplistic op-eds about Stayers and Quitters, and the clumsy attempt of the government to try to find what makes Singaporeans Singaporean.
Well I think you've put your finger on it. As Singaporeans, there's alot that we're put through and don't much like, but at the end of it all, we suck thumb and do it. And it's the shared experience that all of us live with that makes us Singaporeans Singaporean.
Posted by: Choo Zheng Xi | Jul 4, 2006 10:54:36 PM
The time is up for this government. It simply can't see eye-to-eye with the people.
Posted by: ac | Jul 4, 2006 10:56:38 PM
Shit. This is damn cool. yeah i should start doing my own version and support you! So say we all!
Posted by: BootsOfSpeed | Jul 4, 2006 10:58:06 PM
You are the man, mrbrown.
Posted by: ltm | Jul 4, 2006 10:58:10 PM
Thank you very much. We'd all like to say too.
Posted by: James Bond | Jul 4, 2006 11:01:03 PM
Awesome!!!
That was bloody awesome!!!
You're an icon, mrbrown. A national treasure.
Posted by: Ben | Jul 4, 2006 11:10:00 PM
as a singaporean (and a battlestar galactica fan), your "pledge" brought tears to my eyes.
so say we all!
Posted by: alvin | Jul 4, 2006 11:18:01 PM
It's time for democracy!
So Say WE ALL!
Posted by: MBforpresident | Jul 4, 2006 11:21:24 PM
Wah lao, mrbrown made me want to laugh and cry at the same time.
So say we all!
Posted by: singaporean | Jul 4, 2006 11:21:38 PM
I always believe you will achieve something gr8. Your pledge really moved my heart. You are really our voice and the people's champion.
I am a Singaporean. So say we all
Posted by: tiger4 | Jul 4, 2006 11:28:55 PM
that was a classic.. superb response..
so say we all..
Posted by: stanley | Jul 4, 2006 11:51:36 PM
PAP will allow you to speak up as we open up the society. But when we ask you to shut up, you jolly well shut up.
We will let you know when you can speak up again. Speak for only PAP if you really need to speak up.
Posted by: LBY | Jul 5, 2006 12:13:55 AM
long time no hear so solid thing.
So say we all
Posted by: Lazy | Jul 5, 2006 12:36:48 AM
Beats national day stuff :)
listened for the 5th time liao. (good choice in the bgm)
Posted by: Ed | Jul 5, 2006 1:26:10 AM
It sounds a bit sad, but it definately touches my heart.
Too bad, everyone wants to make the government hear us, but nothing really matters to them saves for the GE which is mostly just a show.
Every year, every thing is the same.
Posted by: Jennifer | Jul 5, 2006 1:37:41 AM
omigod!! I almost cried!! Thank you for sharing something so inspiring
Posted by: ead | Jul 5, 2006 2:45:23 AM
that is so so so so good!
great choice in the background music... got a link or something...
should make a video podcast of this or something
Posted by: bman | Jul 5, 2006 2:55:11 AM
oh, you've just hit 100 comments~!!
SO SAY WE ALL~!
Posted by: Ronnie | Jul 5, 2006 3:36:19 AM
National day? wat is it anyway? wit a nation like this, wit a GOVT like this, is it worth been happy 4 nation & 4 its' ppl?
wat the country have b come?we can speck, but only words tat is sweet 2 the govt, we better not fight back wit the govt & mica.
Brown man, u r not unknown,we know u as the true one tat make a young s'porean,and it is u tat make us know tat we can b wat we r, fighting 4 our rites,u r our only hope, dun give up.
n also, if wearing a Tee shirt saying words.... would it help much????? i dun know..... it is up 2 u ppl 2 think... up till now all i can c is tat freedom in SG is going dw hill,the press is only reporting on the SWEET side of the GOVT n its' officals...... is this freedom?
if any one, just any one out there can save our next breed of S'porean???? is there any one at all???
Brown man have done it all, but he can't walk alone.....
Posted by: KsterK | Jul 5, 2006 4:43:12 AM
National day? wat is it anyway? wit a nation like this, wit a GOVT like this, is it worth been happy 4 nation & 4 its' ppl?
wat the country have b come?we can speck, but only words tat is sweet 2 the govt, we better not fight back wit the govt & mica.
Brown man, u r not unknown,we know u as the true one tat make a young s'porean,and it is u tat make us know tat we can b wat we r, fighting 4 our rites,u r our only hope, dun give up.
n also, if wearing a Tee shirt saying words.... would it help much????? i dun know..... it is up 2 u ppl 2 think... up till now all i can c is tat freedom in SG is going dw hill,the press is only reporting on the SWEET side of the GOVT n its' officals...... is this freedom?
if any one, just any one out there can save our next breed of S'porean???? is there any one at all???
Brown man have done it all, but he can't walk alone.....
Posted by: KsterK | Jul 5, 2006 4:46:32 AM
It is sad that TODAY did not publish any letters even today. Why the total censorship!
Let us email today at news@newstoday.com.sg and ask them!
Posted by: vv | Jul 5, 2006 5:57:52 AM
Well done Mr Brown. This is what I call best of class response to overpaid civil servants.
Posted by: angie | Jul 5, 2006 6:12:39 AM
"so say we all". the best, is yet, to be. :)
Posted by: alvin tan | Jul 5, 2006 7:23:18 AM
The chicken is not one for words but is a constant fan of mr brown. This is great times for Singapore because we hear so many voices of the people. If more people read blogs and write blogs we will come out of the closet and learn to speak for ourselves rather than mouth or moan what the government tells us. What you want to do, finds ways and means to do it. Don't let the fear of the powers stop you. I have voted for opposition (not this time though cos I am overseas) but I have fear too. But the recent elections and the issues around media openess has opened my eyes and helped me understand the extend and amplitude of my fear. I know that I am not alone and those who fear less have spoken. I salute you!
Posted by: feeblechicken | Jul 5, 2006 8:05:47 AM
Bro, relax dude..you are doing great..dun let CBs get you down..
Posted by: Andy | Jul 5, 2006 8:08:55 AM
SO SAY WE ALL!
I am damn proud to be Singaporean, like mr brown.
Posted by: medi | Jul 5, 2006 8:13:07 AM
nice piece of podcast. so say we all
Posted by: py | Jul 5, 2006 8:39:13 AM
hey, a very good response to the (unmentionable word) people. Were they really free or something?
Also, to everyone else, please refrain from speaking about the cost of living or mentioning the (unmentionable) government department. Remember, if you gripe about the increasing cost of living, suddenly you're a player in partisan politics!
And also, we don't want to get poor mr brown into trouble lest suddenly MICA asks him to register his site as a political site for its "persistently political" content. Remember hor. It doesn't take much to be a player in partisan politics these days!
Posted by: Anthony | Jul 5, 2006 8:48:09 AM
Govt n MICA is like world cup.....every one wan 2 c, than wan 2 scold, be cos F up result alway surface.... but really every one wan 2 watch tat y got world cup, if no one watch 2 bother abt them.... c wat happen 2 them.... they will come a day... election.... totally no vote.... world cup no ppl watch... than u know wat reason... poor mangment. bad chairman.everythin......
SO say MYSELF!!!!!!!!!!!! MR BROWN> SINGAPORE YOUNG PPL IDOLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: KsterK | Jul 5, 2006 9:31:15 AM
GREAT entry!
I wish I can say it this well!
Anyway, I love ICT. That's when I take on a totally different identity! I love the stupid things we do, except that it got tougher when I raced into my 30s. I LOVE ICT!! I MISS IT....now that I'm 40!
Posted by: Spunky | Jul 5, 2006 10:02:38 AM
Spunky- its your right to love ICT. it really is. Its the right of anyone who doesnt love ICT to also say it. Or shouldnt they say it? After all its more the PAP's SAF than the country's SAF? Just like its the PAP's HDB and not the country's HDB?
Posted by: fancl | Jul 5, 2006 10:15:36 AM
http://littlespeck.com/content/politics/CTrendsPolitics-060705.htm
National Day
Let PAP flags fly...
But some Singaporeans say opposition must be allowed to march in the parade, too. SgForums discussion.
Jul 5, 2006
Texcoco II posted,
I can't but think this way. Just look at the performance and contents, PAP party flags, videos of Lee Kuan Yew's and his PAP struggle. It's not a bad idea. LKY did good, it must be agreed that without him and the PAP Singapore will have no today.
But why no opposition parties and members invited? After all, they (also) all represent Singapore. I'm not saying PAP should not raise their standards or whatever, but I believe it can be fairer if opposition parties can display their own content, such as flags...
mhcampboy
If you are in power, you rule it in your own way.
Atobe
It would seem that National Day does not belong to the Alternative (opposition) Parties, as their Members of Parliament cannot even get a permit to conduct an OUTDOOR Constituency National Day Celeberation Dinner - on the same scale as the Ruling Party - even if the budget is available.
The MPs from the Alternative Parties are not allowed to address the schools in their Constituencies nor participate in the National Day celebrations conducted by those schools.
National Day is certainly a Propaganda Day for the Ruling Political Party.
Somehow the emphasis on such a grand occasion seems to have forgotten the sacrifices, pain, sufferings and personal contributions of the various generations of COMMON SINGAPOREANS - who have given their support to the Government - not to the Political Party - despite their personal political preferences.
After the 1959 Election - that allowed the PAP to step into the seat of Government for the first time - and with a 54.1% of the votes, controlling 43 parliamentary seats out of 51 - Singaporeans closed ranks again almost three years later, when Singaporeans gave their support to LKY and his team again in a Referendum to join Malaysia.
Most lowly-educated and uneducated Singaporeans of the early 1960s were swayed by LKY's eloquence, and did not discern the narrow differences in the choices available - without any choice to object - in a shrewdly designed Referendum; and 70% of Singaporeans gave support to LKY's call to merger, despite the alarm bells sounded by the Alternative Political Parties.
Almost two years after merger with Malaysia, and after two racial riots, Singapore was bitterly kicked out of Malaysia on 9 August 1965; the date which Singaporeans again rallied to give support to the PAP despite all their political leanings.
Singaporeans had only one goal, and that was to prove to Malaysia that we will outlast and outperform the racial politics practised in Malaysia.
After almost 40 YEARS, what is the achievements and rewards for those who gave their support to LKY and his PAP?
The generations that saw or participated in the politics of the 1950s till this day are now in their 70s and 80s.
Many are languishing in Old Folks' Homes that are run by PRIVATE Charities, churches, temples and religious councils.
After all those years of loyal support, what has LKY and the PAP done that alleviate the ever increasing medical costs to these elderly generations - most of whom have hardly any CPF, Medisave or Medishield to cover their multiple deteriorating physical and health problems?
LKY and his team will fade away with an accumulation of A MILLION DOLLARS A YEAR, while these elderly generation has to depend on their hard-pressed children to find money to pay for all the medical bills generated by the PRIVATISED government-owned hospitals.
Singapore's National Day should belong to all generations of Singaporeans.
National Day should serve as a reminder to the sacrifices, struggles, pain, and contributions made by the earlier generation, as well as.. ourselves.
National Day should allow us the opportunity to pledge ourselves to do better and more for this country, and remind outselves that this country rightfully belongs to us, and which WE should have a bigger say than the politicians.
http://www.sgforums.com/?action=thread_display&thread_id=198507
Posted by: Littlespeck | Jul 5, 2006 10:27:04 AM
If it is true, then it is real sad.
Because if PAP have reduced Singapore's National Day to a political event. We are no different from North Korea.
If PAP wants to politicised everything in Singapore, they can but please leave National Day alone.
PAP can stick to their regulars in politicization like GLCs, grassroots, civil service, SAF, elections, media etc...
Posted by: real_sad | Jul 5, 2006 10:38:58 AM
great podcast. so say we all!
Posted by: anony | Jul 5, 2006 10:49:19 AM
I feel a sense of patriotism when I hear your podcast. Truly this is our nation, we speak cos we care. This is our HOME. We have a say. So say we all!
Posted by: Lings | Jul 5, 2006 11:27:38 AM
Dear Mr. Brown,
Don't feel too depressed by the "hit" you get from the authority, we in AP (alternative parties) got much worse i.e. being labelled as "trouble makers" that need to be fixed! Well, this may not be the best consolation I could offer but it may just make you feel better I guess. ;)
You should feel "honoured" in the sense that it is precisely due to the enormous influence of your blog, podcasts and writing that PAP takes you so seriously. But in a way, it is also the insecurity in PAP that makes them take you as a target....yes, you may be viewed as a "potential threat" to them in the "new media". They are just trying to tame you in such subtle way, that's all.
I believe you think the same way as I do, our conscience is clear and there is basically nothing wrong with putting forward our frank views. We do not expect everybody to agree 100% with our views but based on what right do the authorities demand us to speak their tongue and not to criticise them?
It is really ironic though. I always believe politicians are also CIVIL SERVANTS and they serve the citizens. If the citizens have no right of putting fore their frank views, whether such views are "desirable" or not, how are the Civil Servants serve us without knowing what we want and we think?
Just ignore them, Mr. Brown. You will get use to it very soon. As a good example of good citizenry with social activism, you should continue to do what you are doing without much distractions from them.
Goh Meng Seng
Posted by: Goh Meng Seng | Jul 5, 2006 11:29:32 AM
So say we all!!!
Mr Brown indeed brought the shame out of me as a Singaporean. I am a Singaporean not a PAPrean.
So say we all. Salute!!!
Posted by: Meow | Jul 5, 2006 11:38:46 AM
veri touching indeed ... so say we all ;p
Posted by: fridayreaderonly | Jul 5, 2006 12:54:05 PM
Where can I read the script??? I freakin cannot download or hear the podcast and it drives me crazy...
Posted by: Earthtone | Jul 5, 2006 12:54:52 PM
Haha...
Looks like the Government make the biggest booboo in Singapore history! Making an enemy of its people.
They should really try to understand this sentence - "Singapore is bigger than PAP".
Now, we have a party here, celebrating our Singaporeaness. The Singapore Party is On!
Posted by: partisan | Jul 5, 2006 1:30:42 PM
When I listen to this pod, my eye fill with tears.
!!!! @2@ !!!
! so say we all !
!! SO SAY WE ALL !!
Posted by: agc123 | Jul 5, 2006 2:55:05 PM
"Before one of us goes out on a limb and starts proposing T-shirt designs based on this very inspiring podcast, let me first point all our loyal listeners to the right direction:
http://www.cafepress.com/filmfodder.34409028
It's out there, at about 36 bucks a piece. Wear it proud and say it loud."
halozero. Nice leh, but white leh...
Dunno why for some reason wanna boycott white leh.
Got brown or not? haha!
Posted by: gymrat | Jul 5, 2006 4:04:45 PM
hello mr brown.. wah ur podcast very patraiotic.. i like... by the way i like the background music.. can u send it to me
Posted by: yong sheng | Jul 5, 2006 4:07:41 PM
Very touch by your podcast. Got me in tears.
Posted by: ng | Jul 5, 2006 4:46:12 PM
Well done.
Ich bin ein Singaporean.
Posted by: Gahmen Lackey | Jul 5, 2006 4:48:39 PM
Mr Brown and Mr Miyagi,
I think your podcasts undermine the democratically re-elected government of Singapore. Not only does it do that, but it also airs Singapore's dirty laundry (such as undemocratic elections) to the rest of the world. That drastically distorts our image of a fun loving land of hard working people, and undermines our ability to become a tourist hub going forward, if and when WE (we as in the ruling class) eventually scrap the bio hub idea, just like we (see above, not you) scrapped the IT hub idea.
Your podcasts only drag Singapore backwards. They are baseless and lack meritrocity (ha ha I had to put this in).
I have your income tax records.
P.S: We (as in the ruling class) like to promote creativity by encouraging free speech.
Posted by: PAP SMEAR | Jul 5, 2006 5:11:57 PM
Thank you, mrbrown. As a Singaporean, I am truly grateful for that stoic response.
Posted by: daryl lim | Jul 5, 2006 8:36:48 PM
bravissmo! twas brilliant! =D
Posted by: kL | Jul 5, 2006 9:12:11 PM
Shit! You make me weep!
Thank you Mr Brown. SO SAY WE ALL!!!
Posted by: DOM the clown | Jul 5, 2006 9:28:34 PM
This is Classic.
I believe in a revolution, there has to be some fight.
I believe the fight is worth it even if bloodied.
If something has to be done, it has to be.
Even if it pulls us back, for what we want and demand, we have to and must do it...
Posted by: Waffle | Jul 5, 2006 9:33:41 PM
I was born in Singapore.
I have lived in Singapore all my life.
I go to a Singaporean school.
I eat Singaporean food.
My passport says I'm Malaysian.
But my heart says I'm Singaporean.
Posted by: Chen Ted Kin | Jul 5, 2006 9:59:53 PM
Today in class my lecturer tried to explain his rationality that we have to accept the establishment. What establishment I retort. A revolution is taking place slowly, but it cannot just be in the faceless Internet. We have to take it to the streets, let everyone be known. We have to do that. If not, this will be done in vain. Diplomacy won't work in a revolution, civil disobedience will. It has to start one day.
Posted by: firefly | Jul 5, 2006 10:58:42 PM
我是雲裡風，我是新加坡人。
I've got the Chinese version :)
http://willythecop.blogspot.com/2006/07/i-am-singaporean-national-day-meme.html
So say we all! :D
Posted by: Cloudywind | Jul 5, 2006 11:13:29 PM
One thing you can learn from the Americans (even if you don't like Americans).
You may dislike the leadership, but you must love your country.
Some Americans hate their presidents, but you can be sure they are proud (sometimes too proud) of their flag.
Be proud of your flag and your identity as a citizen of this nation.
I am proud to see so many in this column who still love their country. This to me is truly "Majullah Singapura"!
Posted by: boogie box | Jul 5, 2006 11:22:44 PM
Nice job. Inspiring speech that truly belongs to the heartlanders.
So say we all!!
Posted by: Timothy Ting | Jul 5, 2006 11:54:27 PM
I have no blog. Initially, I wanted to call myself mr darkbrown or mr tanbrown or mr browner .. in honour of mr brown (don't let them cowed you) ... It's like a surname everyone adopts .. a collective brownies .. ha ha. Anyway, here is my piece. ( Aiyah no mic to record and music to accompany.. imagine lor.. ):
I am a Singaporean
I was born in 1965, the morning Singapore was kicked out of Malaysia
My mother used to say "Lee Kuan Yew cried when you were born", her eyes tearing
I don't like to make people cry ..
So I behave, I follow the rules, I dont tear coupon anyhow .. Or will I be FINE
I am fine now .. I just watch what I say ..
Growing up, I lived in a three room flat with mum, dad, three sisters, five brothers, one step sister, my neighbour's son and occassionally my brother's best friend.
We have many many birds, fishes, one white chicken, one talking cockatoo and two tiger cubs
Now, I live in a three room flat all by myself.. whoopee!
I grow up having multiracial friends
My best friend in school is a fellow Malay, Adam
My neighbour and best Maths tutor is Chinese, Chin Boon
My buddy in the army was an Indian, Krishnan
I grow up believing in the concept of multiracial, that is,
until two years ago in KL
There, walk into any fancy restaurants and you will see
my Krshnans and Adams and Chin Boons all mingling and feasting away
at the same time
Here, Adam is waiting in the car and Krishnan is serving Chin Boon but hey ... they are all mingling too!
I am proud to be a Singaporean ... just ask my sisters and brothers
cos they are Singaporeans no more
They have moved across the causeway
Ar ... the causeway
The bane and the boon, the needle that pricks us now and again
The causeway.. OUR causeway .. too
I am Singaporean
I'm from a neighbourhood school but went to a Cathoilc College
I have a degree but no kindergarten education
I grow up with the four Cs but now I only believe in One, Compassion
I served the army for my country!
I stop at every pedestrian's crossings even when there isn't any pedestrian crossing
I shopped at Orchard Road
I saw the merlion when I was young and wondered. Now I am older and I still wonder ..
I am proud of our airport because the canteen there is shiok.
I swim because we are an island in the sun
I eat at a restaurant and ask for chilli padi
I don't eat pork. I am a Malay ...
But, I am a Singaporean first.
So say we all
So say we all
Posted by: roslan | Jul 6, 2006 1:37:46 AM
roslan- that rocked.
Posted by: mentalman | Jul 6, 2006 9:23:11 AM
My dad was a Singaporean, my mum a Malaysian
i was born in the island at KK hospital so i am a
Singaporean by default. My parents separated shortly
& divorced when i was 3, so mum returned to Malaysia.
I followed my dad & forgot how mum actually looked like.
since i was a baby, i was taken care of by a series of
different babysitters until i was 10 years old.
some were good, some were bad. i didn't see my dad often.
i went to 2 different kindergartens and learnt alphabets twice.
i didn't get to learn 1-2-3. i guess that's why i still can't count very well.
other boys had toy guns and footballs to play with,
i played with ants and bottle caps. You only needed a towel to be Superman.
i also had paper and pencil to scribble with. i used to be left-handed.
But my dad didn't like lefties, so i practised with the right hand.
Milo (chocolate-power beverage) was a delicious drink.
There were many ways to enjoy it.
You can drink it hot, you can also freeze it, or add Carnation milk.
You can scoop it straight from the tin directly into your mouth.
You can serve it ice-cold, then sprinkle more milo on top.
You can also soak it with soda biscuits.
as a kid, i used to be caned by my dad for receiving
sweets from other adults. He said, "don't take pity from others".
i roughly understood why. A little self-respect and pride is good.
i like to drink. My dad died because alcohol killed his liver.
i should have learnt, but i didn't. I guess it's all in the genes.
i try to drink more tea and fruit juices these days.
i was a lazy student who seldom pass up my homework.
i was often sent to the Principal's office but she didn't punish me.
She asked me what was my ambition, i said i've never had one.
She replied,"No, you must have ambition, Ronnie."
I thought about it for a long time.
i loved drawing, but didn't think
i could draw well enough to make a living.
i could sing very well, but didn't think i could be a star.
i liked to write, maybe i could be an author.
i could be anything, but my dad used to tell me that
if one has loads of money, one can do anything. With a bit
of effort and a bit of luck, anyone can try to become rich.
Dad was both right and wrong. Life could be easier with
lots of money. But those who have it didn't seem too happy either.
Something else could be missing. I've learnt to depend on God.
i am still single, and i'm going to reach 30 soon.
i took a loan from the bank and financed my own apartment.
i have bills to pay and file my taxes. i've served in the army
& i have 4 more years of reservist training to complete.
i can speak 3 languages plus a few Chinese dialects.
i have many acquaintances but i don't have any close friend.
Once a while i go out with people, but i do enjoy being alone.
i have my own blog; it's written in English, Korean & Chinese.
My name is Ronnie Ng, my blog-name is Crumpiteer &
I am a Singaporean...
So say we all... So say we all...
Posted by: Ronnie | Jul 6, 2006 10:02:30 AM
I was born in 1971 in Kedang Kerbau Hospital just in time before the Two is Enough policy kicked in.
I went to New Town Primary, Fairfield Methodist and Raffles Junior College.
Unlike many others, my Primary School has not been demolished to make way for a new building. It is the same building as it was back in 1978.
My mother cried when I enlisted into National Service, she didn't tell me, my female classmates told me so.
I flunked out of Officer Cadet School (OCS) but learnt a lot about myself - I am now serving on a volunteer Board of Directors as the Vice-President of a 1000 member professional association.
I learnt how hard Indian and Bangladesh foreign workers work when I was in reservist digging shellcrapes and command posts. I now respect physical labour.
I pursued the 5Cs until I realised how empty they were. Now I pursue Christ.
I laughed with mr brown's observations of Singapore life and was touched by his voice for the ordinary Singaporean.
I teared when I heard his and his wife's podcast...because...
I am a Singaporean.
So say we all... So say we all.
Posted by: lunatic_fringe | Jul 6, 2006 2:35:24 PM
Nice to see a worthy meme like this take shape, even if the "I am Canadian" meme is almost 6 years old.
My own I Am Singaporean podcast
http://iamsingaporean.blogspot.com
Posted by: MLim | Jul 6, 2006 4:56:30 PM
I was born at Mt. Alvernia in 1985.
I studied for 6 yrs in pri sch, 4 yrs at a sap sch and 2 yrs at jc.
And I still have 4 more years in university.
I speak english, mandarin, teochew and hokkien. And a little cantonese too.
English was the first language I had learnt. Yet chinese also became my first language at o levels.
I have friends who are chinese, indians and malays. And australians, a serbian, 2 koreans, a japanese and 2 vietnamese.
I have served 26 months of NS, protecting our people at the various KINs.
And I still have 10 more years of reservist to come. I will still serve with pride.
I like to sit at the kopitiam to 'lim' kopi.
But I also frequent starbucks to get my mocha latte.
I like wearing slippers to anywhere I go.
The hawker centre that I always frequent has a market next to it.
I require my daily dose of 'teh' and weekly dose of mee pok. Dry.
Egg prata, laksa, sup kambing, char kway teow bah chor mee are also some of my favourite foods.
I can move from one end of the island to another in less than 2 hours.
I can't buy chewing gum.
Only I can understand why there are 2 "durians" in the city.
I think of 4 digits every wednesday, saturday and sunday.
I wish my parents Happy Chinese New Year. In english.
I celebrate christmas, even though i'm not christian.
I wanted to vote this year, but 85ers couldn't vote.
I am a Singaporean.
So say we all.
So Say we all.
Posted by: gas_cube | Jul 6, 2006 6:04:08 PM
same sentiment .... good stuffs. always amazed how you can pull all the thoughts and put them in a simple short podcast. you have my support and godspeed.
Posted by: ice331 | Jul 7, 2006 5:06:26 PM
Excellent!
Posted by: zhoms | Jul 7, 2006 10:11:27 PM
well done, singaporean!
Posted by: amatu | Jul 8, 2006 2:43:57 AM
I'm on blogger.com and I have no idea how to track back, so just providing a link to my own "I Am Singaporean" at my blog.
http://kuey.blogspot.com/2006/07/i-am-singaporean.html
kuey
Posted by: kuey | Jul 8, 2006 11:17:26 PM
Bery good ah...but hor, this place down here got 'World class' and no class, 'Talents' and not smart enough ones... like that how huh? can still 'We are Singaporeans' or not?!
Posted by: Just Singaporean | Jul 9, 2006 2:27:57 AM
1982 - Toa Payoh Hospital. Emergency Delivery
My father is caucasian. Born 1939 in Singapore. Raised In Katong. Served at a local church and went to St. Pat's. Speaks fluent Malay and kristang. He lost more than half his family in the war including his father. His best friend's nick was 'soup kambing'. His favourite phrase is 'balls to you'. His Favourite food is char kway teow. When the IC system can into place, he chose to be Eurasian not caucasian. He is Singaporean.
My mother is peranakan. Born 1949 in Ipoh. Raised in Katong. IJ girl through and through. Speaks fluent cantonese and a smattering of all other dialects. Her best dish is chap chye. Her favourite phrase is 'haiya, what lah..!'. Her favourite food is chicken rice (thigh only). She loves how safe singapore is and misses her satay beehoon dearly. She is Singaporean.
My Brother was born 1983 in Toa Payoh Hospital. Raised in the North East. He was a Christian Brothers boy. He speaks Singlish and English. His favourite phrase is 'slack one corner bruder'. His favourite food is anything from bedok. He has served 2.5yrs of NS and cherishes the friendships he made. He is Singaporean.
I am Eurasian. Born 1982 in Singapore. Raised in the North East. I am an IJ girl. I speak Singlish, English and after much toiling, mandarin. I understand profanities in most dialects. My favourite phrase is too rude. My favourite food is Chai Tao Kuey from Hougang (and let's face it... everything from hawker centres). I love the noise, the lights and the way rain smells in Singapore. I cried unconsolably when I left at 15 for another country. To this day I smile like a fool when I enter Changi Airport, happy to be home. One day I hope to work in Singapore.
I am Singaporean.
so say we all
Posted by: Cavey | Jul 9, 2006 2:28:02 AM
I too am Singaporean. http://podeam.com/article/670/i-am-singaporean
I was told that my Mother Tongue (with the capital letters) is Tamil. I have had twelve years of formal education in the language – yes, I went for night classes when I was four and five because my kindergarten didn’t offer the language. I still can’t come up with a coherent sentence off the calf. Of course, I have also heard all forms of Singaporean-Chinese-Tamil. “Aprugush, anneh” And I’ve had all forms of coconut tree jokes and disappearing in the dark jokes thrown at me. And I laugh and laugh and laugh when people proudly proclaim that Singapore isn’t racist.
I saw this poster today, advertising locally produced goat milk. My first thought was: “Wah, there are actual live goats in Singapore? Goats not meant for ritualistic sacrifice?” Then I realised Singapore even had cows. I had been to a cow farm here when I was younger. As part of a field-trip. Or rather, excursion. It was for geeky little kids with high IQs in Mensa. I still am geeky. As I did this, I thought of what an excellent assignment it would make for my Audio Production class.
I complain about governance and media stifling and the atrocious prices of pizza. As long as no one in white is in ear-shot. Scared lah. I used to be gung-ho about changing Singapore. I now no longer talk explicitly about politics in the blog.
Thing is, I am still gung-ho. I figure, if aunties and uncles can still queue up for hours on end for years on end in the hope that the last four numbers of their childhood sweetheart’s phone number would one day make them insanely rich, I too can hold on to my dream.
Just last week, I got all indignant when a Filipino online-friend said that his national anthem was the prettiest in the world. Never mind that I complained about singing it every morning for ten years, I typed out “Majulah Singapura” for him. I downloaded the song and added it to my iTunes. I gave him the link, and made him listen to it. The fever spread to the pledge, and that too was shoved down his throat. Ours mah; even if I don’t like, cannot let it lose to other people. Even so, I didn’t dare use the national anthem for this. Later considered disrespectful use, damn suay.
I sent him my entire collection of national day songs: Where I Belong, Stand Up For Singapore, We Are Singapore, and four different versions of Home. These songs all make me fiercely proud. They make my heart flutter, and make me want to run out and buy those mini-flags, you know, the ones filled with candy. They made me write something once that was quoted in the newspapers for national day. Of course, they also quoted me as being a woman.
I am Vicnan Karuppiah Pannirselvam.
I have heard too many mispronunciations in my name.
Most Singaporean documents curtail its last two letters: twenty-five characters only, please.
I blog under the umbrella “Podeam”. And I’m male.
I am Singaporean.
So say we all.
So say we all.
Posted by: Vicnan | Jul 9, 2006 1:08:40 PM
I am a confused Singaporean living in America.
http://www.dorothyho.com/iamsingaporean.mov
Posted by: dot | Jul 9, 2006 1:43:15 PM
I am singaporean too
http://lifeoflewis.blogspot.com/2006/07/i-am-singaporean_09.html
Posted by: Lewis | Jul 9, 2006 11:30:06 PM
I wonder... If this whole issue happended before the GE, would the 'gahment' have lost more than 2 GRCs?
Posted by: Ahdong | Jul 10, 2006 8:03:57 PM
Ok, here's my 2 cents:
I'm proud to be a Singaporean and because I know I'm free.
I won't forget the men who died who gave that right to me.
And I glady stand up next to you and defend her still today.
Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land.
God bless the Singapore.
Where have you guys heard this song? Do you believe S'poreans are that paritotic to agree to the above words? Does you cry tears of joy hearing those words?
Ba-Kao Chen
Hilo, HI, USA
Posted by: Ba-Kao Chen | Jul 10, 2006 11:44:55 PM
And here's mine at my blog - http://tinyurl.com/knxfv
Cheers.
Posted by: Rambling Librarian | Jul 11, 2006 4:03:47 AM
I dunno why mine is not coming up either, here it is.
http://takingavalonapart.blogspot.com/2006/07/i-am-singaporean.html
Posted by: avalon | Jul 12, 2006 8:08:31 PM
I never did well academically and didn't qualify for Poly nor JC.
So I worked...
and with the little money I saved, I took up a private diploma and by God's grace, I was granted a scholarship for a degree by the school.
If not for that, I could have never afforded it.
I am from a single parent family.
My mother has worked hard all these years to bring my sister and I up.
She has always wanted to provide us with a roof over our head.
But she alone cannot afford so.
I stay in a HDB and with my sister and mother.
We share the cost of the housing loan.
I have an aging grandmother and I love her so.
I don't see my family for more than 20 hours a week and I have neglected my family because I want to do good and make more money.
I have a girlfriend of 3 years and I don't know if I can afford to marry her.
I used to dream of being a musician when I was younger.
But that is not feasible in Singapore.
I work hard and keep both my expectations and head low...
So as not to disappoint.
My name is Dean and I am a Singaporean.
Posted by: TheDean | Jul 15, 2006 3:04:23 AM
i am a PR from TW
but turning to be like a s'porean (nt citizen)
i love to speak singlish
and go makan in kopidiam
i like what mr brown writes
if s'pore is going to become a banana republic
i will not say i am like a s'porean again
Posted by: yve | Jul 16, 2006 1:34:24 PM
Singlish version of "Little Red Riding Hood"
During a recent Spoken English workshop, a friend of mine (Lay Cheng) was chosen to read aloud the story of ‘Little Red Riding Hood’. However, it was no ordinary version; it was the Singlish version of Litter Led Liding Hood. It was so funny that the whole class burst out laughing and I was so tickled that I laughed till I cried.
I thought since I enjoyed it so much, why not I share it with others? So I began typing. As I typed, I started to edit the language, thinking it was not Singlish enough. When I was done, I got my husband to read it out loud. This time, the edited version.
Then we got into an argument, er… I mean discussion, on how to further improve it. Then all of a sudden, we both realized to our surprise that we do have a unique language! Singlish is not ‘just’ broken English!
In order to speak and write proper Singlish, we have to make sure that we follow certain Singlish language rules: the sentence structure, spelling, vocabulary, intonation, word stress, rhythm, pause, punctuation etc. There IS a fixed formula.
Singlish cannot anyhow write one… Or rather, not anybody is able to speak and write standard Singlish. Some just try too hard. Of course one must be able to switch between proper Singlish and English depending on the situation etc etc etc (I’m sure you know what I mean…). So do feel proud if you are one of the lucky ones who can speak proper standard Singlish. I do.
Hope you will enjoy the story and perhaps edit it further (advance Singlish maybe?). With that, have a wonderful National Day!
Singlish version of Litter Led Liding Hood
(edited by Sandy & Weekee)
Vely long long time ago, got one girl call Litter Led Liding Hood. She one day wan to go Ah Mah house.
Morning come so she early early go out. She got take one basket to put flower. She doh wan to walk far far so she take shot cut.
But then huh, she dunno got one animal follow her. She happy happy walk until she come to Ah Mah house.
“Ah Mah! Ah Mah! I here aledi, quick come open the door!” she talk. Then Ah Mah talk back, “Come in lah, I never close zit…”
Litter Led Liding Hoot open the house and go inside the door….
Oh, solly solly…shood be open the door and go inside the house then collect. She see her Ah Mah sleep on top the bed.
Then she go ask Ah Mah. “ Ah Mah, how come your eyes so big huh?”
“Like dat I can see you better mahhh…” Ah Mah say back.
“Ah Mah, how come your ear so long one huh?”
“Then can hear