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Thursday, July 06, 2006
Regarding TODAY
Some of you have been asking, so here goes.
I have been informed that TODAY has suspended my column.
It has been a trying few days for me, my family, my mum and my friends. Thank you all for your emails, letters, calls, SMSes, blogs and comments, I don't know what to say.
Thanks.
Thursday, July 6, 2006 at 07:39 AM in Musings, Popular | Permalink
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Comments
I hope this won't stop you from continuing to blog about day-to-day topics that concern us all.
Thanks for writing.
Posted by: takchek | Jul 6, 2006 7:47:11 AM
Hey. Sorry to hear about it man. Needless to say, I think your column will be missed dearly. Hang in there and keep finding the funny.
Packrat.
Posted by: Packrat | Jul 6, 2006 7:54:23 AM
MB, we'll miss your column, but do what you need to do. Be keeping you in prayers. Keep smiling and loving. =)
Posted by: wai | Jul 6, 2006 7:59:40 AM
*sigh* We sort of expected this to happen, didn't we? It's such a shame indeed. Keep writing, MB for it would be such a lost to all of us if you don't.
God bless you and your family.
Posted by: Trish R | Jul 6, 2006 8:08:12 AM
I can't believe this. Sigh!
Posted by: kf | Jul 6, 2006 8:11:49 AM
dear mrbrown,
been following your blog since the SNEs and even occasionally going back to your archives for reminiscence.
a pity our government can't take critisms, but that's nothing new. do not let this setback take you down, and stay strong.
we are Singaporeans and we'll continue to speak up! even if your column is suspended, so long as your site is up, your articles will still be read!
SO SAY WE ALL!
Posted by: zhihao | Jul 6, 2006 8:17:36 AM
I can't believe it either. >_>
..After a while of thinking, I revert back to "That truly sucks."
Posted by: Faeleia | Jul 6, 2006 8:21:23 AM
You will always have my support. For now, I will boycott TODAY until you are reinstated.
Posted by: JBI | Jul 6, 2006 8:22:20 AM
If only the international community knows what happens, at least the world knows that Singapore is not democratic; contrary to what Lee Hsien Loong says in Australia and New Zealand.
When will Singaporeans realize that voting PAP is simply not worth it!
Posted by: RealPeoplesActionParty | Jul 6, 2006 8:24:12 AM
Dear Mr Brown,
This is my first post here. I've been reading and supporting your columns as they are funny. More importantly, heartlanders like myself identify with the issues you have raised.
Even if 'Today' has suspended your column, please continue to blog on Singapore issues every Friday. I'm sure you have many loyal supporters.
I'm just very sad about the way how the government handled this issue.
All the best for you and your amazing family.
Cheers.
Posted by: ctlk | Jul 6, 2006 8:24:19 AM
Its a pity mrbrown. No matter what, you will always have a "column" in the hearts of us all.
God bless you and your family.
Posted by: derek | Jul 6, 2006 8:26:12 AM
Hang in there...
Posted by: churchill | Jul 6, 2006 8:26:13 AM
dear all,
i'll stop buying all prints from SPH, and hope you guys can do what it takes within legal means.
Posted by: zhihao | Jul 6, 2006 8:29:29 AM
never did read that "newspaper" anyway! keep it going mb. take care
Posted by: hucks | Jul 6, 2006 8:30:56 AM
what makes it all so sim tia is that the paper may have thought it was being so progressive putting a column out like that but at the first sign of distress from the government, it clams up. I mean... come on... this isn't THAT big a deal, right. It's an opinion from one person, responded by another opinion from a person or group of people who didn't seem to have caught the ball in the first place. its so petty its laughable apart from the fact that the letter appears to specifically aim at indusing fear or some level of apprehension. its infuriating and embarrassing.
Posted by: ting | Jul 6, 2006 8:33:17 AM
Be encouraged MB,
It goes to show your words do mean a lot to Singaporeans..
I'll stop reading TODAY, til they reinstate u. Hope you know that we'll always support u, and how MICA behaves, now the public knows. How they spend taxpayers' $$$ on questioning citizens, clamouring us for opinions with solutions or otherwise shut up attitude is way too much...
Posted by: LL | Jul 6, 2006 8:35:30 AM
Hey Mr Brown,
Sorry to hear that, man. Please don't change - continue with your witty, humourous blog and podcasts. I really don't see how Bhavani's charges agianst you hold any water - they all look very petty and for a lack of better English word, narrow-minded(xin xiong xia zai).
Hang in there. If things are bad, how about selling your "Tur Kwa" monogrammed T-shirts and other merchandise? Sure got people buy one.
Posted by: KaKiLang | Jul 6, 2006 8:40:00 AM
Just because the newspapers are silent doesnt mean they can pretend to be deaf too. Let's write to TODAY to let us know how we feel. I for one am NOT picking up ANY LOCAL NEWSPAPERS ON FRIDAY.
MediaCorp News Pte Ltd
Caldecott Broadcast Centre, Andrew Road. Singapore 299939.
Tel: (65) 6333 3888
Fax: (65) 6251 5628
news@newstoday.com.sg
Posted by: monkeyshine | Jul 6, 2006 8:40:22 AM
Let's CALL TODAY at 6333 3888, its too easy to dismiss emails.
Posted by: gogogh | Jul 6, 2006 8:41:38 AM
This is utterly sick.
I feel for you mrbrown. Please hang in there. You have all our support. Please don't give up. And please take care of yourself and your family.
Posted by: soulgroove | Jul 6, 2006 8:42:10 AM
MB, we're with you!
I have started relating to everyone around me (who doesn't blog) about how the Government bullies an ordinary Singapore citizen and hoping to keep us silent on our own country's issues.
I'll make sure they pay for this, in my small little way.
Power to Singaporeans.
Have Faith....
Posted by: fellow singaporean | Jul 6, 2006 8:42:57 AM
For what it's worth, this is the reply from TODAY to my feedback on MICA's letter about Mr Brown.
Dear Eddy
Thank you for your feedback. We will not be publishing any correspondence on this issue. Shoud you feel atrongly, you may want to wish to redirect your views to the source of the letter.
With regards.
shavone yeo
editorial assistant
did: 6236 4878
fax: 6534 4217
news desk: 6236 4888
email: shavone@newstoday.com.sg
MediaCorp Press Ltd - http://www.todayonline.com
[Note : I did send in a feedback directly to MICA on Tuesday. It's Thursday now and there is no reply from them.]
And for those interested, this was what I actually wrote to TODAY is:
"If higher oil prices inevitably results in price increases in electricity tariffs and taxi fares, why doesn't lower oil prices inevitably results in price decreases of the same?
Instead of calling mr brown a partisan player, and accusing him of blaming the government, why not admit these are grouses founded on what could be observed through the eyes of the metaphorical man-on-the-street?
I have found mr brown equally ""merciless"" in dealing against non-governmental entities as well as governmental entities, using humour, irony and satire to reflect what he observes.
Rather than accuse his piece to be calculated to encourage cynicism and despondency, shouldn't one ask whether cynicism or despondency already existed before mr brown wrote about them in a manner to bring some
relief, no matter how little, to those affected. At the minimum, it allows them to know that someone else understands, and able to verbalise, without being belligerent.
mr brown's popularity was the result of his being able to express with wittiness of what some of his fellow citizens are experiencing.
If this is not acceptable to the government, I would strongly advise mr brown to withdraw from publishing his well-appreciated writings in the print media and return to the original roots of where he had his first success."
Posted by: Eddy Tan | Jul 6, 2006 8:48:36 AM
This is expected, there is no true freedom of speech. Truth will prevail somehow, often time Truth is ugly to those who think they are in control. Nevertheless truth has to be proclaimed and will have the final victory.
Take heart and take care mr brown.
Posted by: yc | Jul 6, 2006 8:51:21 AM
Sent this letter yesterday to TODAY but they rejected it saying they won't be publishing any correspondence on the matter! I reproduce it here for all to read anyway:
Humour as the Worst Heresy
Like the irascible blind librarian, Jorge of Burgos, in Umberto Eco's 'Name of the Rose', K Bhavani in her letter 'Distorting the truth, mr brown?' (July 3) also seems to consider humour an insufferable heresy. mr brown, in documenting the quirkier side of Singapore life, should find the ability of the government to accommodate even mild dissent highly dysfunctional.
mr brown's piece, "S'poreans are fed, up with progress!" (June 30), expresses in a light-hearted way every ordinary citizen's frustration with rising costs, especially after the euphoria of the election. To see it as a 'polemic' or 'diatribe' against government policies shows a dangerous tendency on the part of government officials to see the devil when he's not there. It is good that the government takes its job seriously but that is different from taking itself too seriously!
Posted by: Ang Tok Woon | Jul 6, 2006 8:52:12 AM
Didnt an editor approve what mr brown wrote? Aren't there many more layers of people above supervising the content of the newspaper? Why is it that with the first sign of trouble- they hang the lowly writer out to dry? THIS IS THE CHARACTER OF THE PEOPLE WHO WORK IN THE NEWS HERE. No conscience. They dont stand by what their paper has published. They BETRAY their fellow industry colleagues. NOT A SINGLE JOURNALIST, EDITOR or ANYONE HAS SAID ANYTHING IN THE LOCAL PRESS, RADIO OR TV. THIS GETS ME MAD.
There are many people here in the forum who appreciate brown and the freedom of speech. Looks like NOBODY in TODAY, ST, MEDIACORP has ANY opinion on MICA's letter and Brown's article.
mr brown- you have my support. TODAY-i'm never picking it up again and i'm emailing all my friends.
Posted by: mentalman | Jul 6, 2006 8:52:26 AM
What a bully.
Posted by: Lisa | Jul 6, 2006 8:54:40 AM
Someone says that we dont think.. well u cant blame us for that.. we are not allowed to think...
MB, take care. life goes on. U & ur family w'll be in my prayers..
Posted by: disappointed | Jul 6, 2006 8:54:40 AM
You still have your blog. It is the one thing they cannot shut down. If they do, the fallout will be tremendous.
So blog on, MB. You have all our support.
Posted by: gecko | Jul 6, 2006 8:57:38 AM
Who cares? The Internet reaches out to everybody right?
Posted by: d8nnis | Jul 6, 2006 8:58:12 AM
a sad day for mankind.
Posted by: native writer | Jul 6, 2006 8:58:26 AM
Very soon there may not be any TODAY. Well at the rate Herald, New Nation .... were being closed down over my life time so far.
Posted by: yc | Jul 6, 2006 9:00:26 AM
The press has boycott the voice of the Singaporean. Time for us to boycott the press (and mediacorp!)
Posted by: boycott | Jul 6, 2006 9:01:04 AM
mr brown, you started with your blog, and you will still have your blog.
you will not be silenced and we will continue to hear and read you.
so say we all!
Posted by: SneeringTree | Jul 6, 2006 9:02:38 AM
I'm upset on behalf of the people who dont really follow your blog but do enjoy reading you offline.
Posted by: boycott | Jul 6, 2006 9:04:27 AM
My prayers go out to you and your family. Don't despair and remember to be socratic about this whole fiasco. We chastise and dissent only because we love this nation.
Posted by: Jeremy | Jul 6, 2006 9:05:15 AM
Hi MB,
I'm truly sorry to hear that your column has been suspended. This is really uncalled for. I have been following your column eversince its publication in TODAY. It saddens me to know that our government is intolerant of satire and humour. A fun and vibrant city for Singapore? Perhaps only what they claim to be.
Hang in there MB. Do let us know if you need help such as good soccer tips to tide over this difficult period.
I'm sure many out there would like to help. God bless.
Posted by: Skipper | Jul 6, 2006 9:05:33 AM
You know what? I'm actually glad you won't be writing for the TODAY rag. It's delivered to my house even though I didn't ask for it as I live in landed property. I use it to line my rabbit hutch for the droppings, except the Friday edition, of course. Readership is down for the Straits Times because Singaporeans no longer believe the "official" print media, I expect less will go for the Today at MRT stations, except when they need to wrap fish. I have only one request - ask your buddy Miyagi to quit his column.
Posted by: Kenny | Jul 6, 2006 9:05:40 AM
Dear Mr Brown,
I read your message with regret. I am not a Today reader and I have only been following your work only after the Tur Kwa Man podcast.
First thing that come into my mind is whether this column job is your main bread and butter? If this is so, do you have any plan for the future? I believe that your column has influence many in Singapore and they are willing to help a friend in time of need.
In any case, just drop me a mail should you need my support. I am not an above average Singaporean but I will see how I can help.
Posted by: denzuko1 | Jul 6, 2006 9:06:18 AM
no worries~ you have everyone's support! your blogs, newspaper columns & podcast are liked by thousands and millions! losing the opportunity to write in TODAY is no big deal to you. you've brilliant ideas, just do it.
Posted by: Neal | Jul 6, 2006 9:08:40 AM
The internet is still bigger than the gahmen. Stopping one MB means more MB will rise up.
Posted by: Babycfm | Jul 6, 2006 9:09:04 AM
hang in there mr brown, as long as you keep our voices vocal, we're support you in whatever you do.
Posted by: -sco | Jul 6, 2006 9:09:50 AM
well, what can I say? our gahmen is at it again. 'the media entralled' is a very interesting perspective on the development of media in this little isle. its available on amazon.
Posted by: aBsOluT_VoDka | Jul 6, 2006 9:10:29 AM
In respond to Kenny's comment, I don't think that Mr Miyagi should quit in protest. I believe Today will not hessitate to let Miyagi go. He should stay. As Chinese saying goes, retaining the green mountain will not fear that you do not have woods to burn.
Posted by: denzuko1 | Jul 6, 2006 9:10:29 AM
Dear Mr Brown,
I don't think you should feel bad about this. You gained much more than you lost, actually...
HS
Posted by: Heavenly Sword | Jul 6, 2006 9:13:04 AM
the paper is right in that we should be addressing it to the source of the letter... MICA. I think most sentiments, whether in support of MrBrown or in disagreement with how MICA's handled this, are very visible here, so the push to contact TODAY may be misdirected, even if it means that the broader public is not made fully aware of the backlash. The best person to direct concerns to is the Press Secretary of MICA herself.
Ms K. Bhavani
Press Secretary to Minister/Director
Corporate Communications
140 Hill Street, #02-02 MICA Building, Singapore 179369
EMAIL: bhavani_k@mica.gov.sg
Posted by: waitasec | Jul 6, 2006 9:16:28 AM
Not surprising move by the gahmen.
If they can set aside the more important issues during the most important(election) times to Singaporeans, to go gaga over a piece of ter kwa, I mean form, what else in priority can't they go wrong?
You have our support Brown.
We are the HDB flat dwellers.
Who fell into the gahmen kelong and now kena pay for the flat till thy kingdom come.
Posted by: TulanPAPliow | Jul 6, 2006 9:19:02 AM
Dear Mr Brown,
If there's any way we can help, let us know. I hope you weren't depending on that column for a substantial amount of income, and I hope the family is there for you at this emotionally draining time.
Good luck with your full time job. I hope your boss is at least understanding.
Here's to your wellbeing.
Posted by: Anon Scaredycat | Jul 6, 2006 9:19:57 AM
ah email and call BOTH Today and MICA!
Posted by: mentalman | Jul 6, 2006 9:20:54 AM
You are a blogger not a silly columnist who writes to please the gahmen.
You'll always have your blog and have us to support you.
Posted by: esael | Jul 6, 2006 9:23:03 AM
I hope your thoughts will continue to be shared here..
Its a TGIF column.... I cannot understand why MICA's comment backfired and Mr Brown gets the boot...
Someone else deserve the boot more than Mr Brown.. Someone in MICA..
Easy to run the country in this administration.
Anything u unsatisfied with, someone will get the blame..
One person take the responsibility, easier than having the whole corporation taking the blame..
I believe all article are approved by senior editors or editor-in-chiefs before they make the print..
If the article has been approved by someone else above Mr Brown, then how come still only one person take responsibility..
The Govt vs One Man.
Govt wins.. always..
But today, that One man is Mr Brown...Whom speaks the same language as all of us middleclass.. whom swears just like us... whom shares snippets of family life with us..
The "One man" IS ACTUALLY US..
Posted by: Franklin | Jul 6, 2006 9:24:06 AM
Mr Brown,
I am boycotting today paper for u.
So say we all!
Medi
Posted by: medi | Jul 6, 2006 9:26:02 AM
It's indeed sad to hear that.
Refuting an article is one thing, shutting down people's right to response and taking away their mode of expression is another.
Mr Brown has not maligner anyone... he is just stating his views, is it so wrong?
Writing to Today is useless, their hands are tied. There are a few ways we can help and address this.
(i) Don't write to BHAVANI, she will not bother to response. Write to MICA feedback unit or any of the direct mails that we can find to high level people within MICA or even the minster himself. If enough mail gets in, other people within MICA will notice and hopefully something will change (don't expect anything to be done specifically for this case, but at least in future they know... hopefully they learn).
(ii) Write directly to the PMO on how we feel, if enough letter get in, this will generate enough buzz. You'll be surprise that there might be enough sympathizer within civit service as well.
(iii) Try writing to ST and see whether they dare to publish or not (chances slim but who knows).
Posted by: KT | Jul 6, 2006 9:26:47 AM
how typical of these people from the high places on mother earth. they are never creative in their writings either. in addition, this really reflects how well they take about the whole issue.
anyway, keep up the wonderful work that you have done. i personally enjoy every single bit of it. i intend to download all the potcast and burn them into CDs. guess my friends from overseas will really enjoy all these. i may even let my children or grand-children hear them one day (if i ever get married n create babies... LOL)
KUDOS!!!!
Posted by: totoro69 | Jul 6, 2006 9:27:58 AM
Those idiots!
Posted by: NoHarmDone | Jul 6, 2006 9:29:44 AM
utterly disappointed.
but the action taken by Today and MICA is further evidence of the original sparring point.
so buckle up and enjoy your ride in our 'world state'...
although it's pretty much hard to enjoy given the cost of fuel, erp charges, expressway jams...and whatnots.
take care and continue with your blog!
Posted by: sidewalkslam | Jul 6, 2006 9:30:14 AM
Something is rotten in the state of Singapore when a ministry filled with supposedly intelligent people cannot take satirical humour or see the truth for what it is.
The ruling party did not fight a pretty war in the GE and now they've reinforced my impression that they do not have the makings of a mature, secure government who has come into their own.
The govt laments about the political apathy of Singaporeans and wishes for a participative population.
It is imperative that they re-examine their own practices and ask themselves if they are practising what they are preaching.
This is a definitely a sad moment in Singapore's growth into a mature civic society.
mb ... we are all behind you all the way.
Posted by: lovebell | Jul 6, 2006 9:30:37 AM
check out chinese station 100.3 now. they are talking abt this case.
Posted by: passerby | Jul 6, 2006 9:32:12 AM
Have Faith.
You still have your blog.
Posted by: Kelly | Jul 6, 2006 9:34:49 AM
Continue blogging Mr Brown...
TODAY can don't publish your articles, but we can still go to your blog to read them.
You can be sure to have our support
Posted by: Mr Brown's Supporter | Jul 6, 2006 9:35:21 AM
I'm gagging at this piece of news. TODAY can be free or hey, it can even pay me, but I am so not reading it anymore.
Gosh, I'm puking from this. What a petty move, I'm utterly disgusted.
Mr Brown, sending good vibes to you and your family. Have Faith.
Posted by: Earthtone | Jul 6, 2006 9:35:56 AM
Hey MB,
Hang in there. You have my support. I believe many like me will continue to support your articles, with or without TODAY. Keep writing.
Posted by: Hades | Jul 6, 2006 9:36:25 AM
I was disgusted by the Governement's response to your article and I wrote to the newspaper to tell them about it. I just received an email from TODAY that they will not publish my letter and any other correspondence related to that article.
Posted by: Andrew | Jul 6, 2006 9:40:04 AM
Who needs TODAY when there's WWW. Folks, please vote wisely in future lol! Remember today, don't forget about it 5yrs later. Remember...
MB, you're our voice and we greatly appreciate your works. Thank you!
Posted by: misstuppy | Jul 6, 2006 9:40:05 AM
passerby, anyone- can you share with us what they said on radio?
Posted by: yesnoyes | Jul 6, 2006 9:40:23 AM
So the powers-that-be have made their overt move. At least now we know where they stand. They intend to drive bloggers underground. Fine by me.
mb, everyone is behind you. The rest of the world needs to know of this incident to shame the people orchestrating it.
Posted by: geekgeek | Jul 6, 2006 9:40:33 AM
Mr Brown, take care, God bless.
Posted by: matthew | Jul 6, 2006 9:46:29 AM
Is Singapore Democratic ????
What is there to smile about ?
Just because the son of the great one says so ??
Posted by: syt | Jul 6, 2006 9:46:30 AM
a sad day for singapore indeed.
nothing more to say.
mb, praying for you and your family.
i don't need to tell you that you've done nothing wrong.
hang in there yah? so many people are behind you, and thinking about you, and believing in you. i know that may not translate to an immediate alternative source of income right now, but it's gotta count for something.
Posted by: this is awful | Jul 6, 2006 9:46:56 AM
a sad day for singapore indeed.
nothing more to say.
mb, praying for you and your family.
i don't need to tell you that you've done nothing wrong.
hang in there yah? so many people are behind you, and thinking about you, and believing in you. i know that may not translate to an immediate alternative source of income right now, but it's gotta count for something.
Posted by: this is awful | Jul 6, 2006 9:47:17 AM
Keep writing, you have our support. You have hit where it hurts. Yeah!
Posted by: LF | Jul 6, 2006 9:47:54 AM
So much for a government that's open to feedback and criticism. Elect them in and that's what you get, arrogance!
Posted by: Floorfan | Jul 6, 2006 9:48:40 AM
Guys!
Stop paying lips service to Mr Brown! There're two things we must DO now:
1. Let's mass-email to friends and relatives to boycott ST and Today!
2. Go spread the words around and help Mr Brown source for advertisers to come in and finance mrbrown.com or mrbrownshow.com. This is the real support we can the least do.
Who need the news from the shittytimes anyway? IF WE WANT FREEDOM OF SPEECH LET'S HELP FINANCE THE MAN: MR BROWN!
Action starts now..............
Posted by: DOM the clown | Jul 6, 2006 9:49:01 AM
bummer.
it's not easy but i hope this doesn't stop you from writing in any way. have always enjoyed reading your posts and listening to your podcasts. chin up.
Posted by: fuchsiacow | Jul 6, 2006 9:49:25 AM
dude, you should print up a batch of those tur kwa t-shirts -- i'm sure you'll get lots of orders. i'll definitely buy two -- one for me, one to send to K. Bhavani.
Posted by: %#&$ | Jul 6, 2006 9:51:50 AM
Hang in there, Mr Brown. You have my support and my prayers. God bless you and your family, and may He grant Singapore and her people the freedom we deserve.
Seriously, how different is our political system from North Korea's?
Posted by: Elgin | Jul 6, 2006 9:53:13 AM
They're attacking their own people!
Posted by: stan | Jul 6, 2006 9:53:15 AM
as i said before, the tighter they grip onto power, the faster they lose it.
Posted by: miak | Jul 6, 2006 9:53:24 AM
P.S. If you setup a paypal link on your site, I'll be happy to donate money to your cause. That way, you can get an alternative source of income other than that from the so-called "media" in Singapore.
Singapore wasn't ranked 147th in terms of press freedom for nothing...I tell you, we are the laughing stock of the developed countries.
Posted by: Elgin | Jul 6, 2006 9:57:02 AM
who cares about TODAY and that tiny little column? MB, you dun need tat. The internet n your blog is truly where home is. Please continue to write n podcast. We will continue to support you.
So say we all...
Posted by: tiger4 | Jul 6, 2006 9:59:11 AM
How annoying that mb's column is dropped, but yet sadly predictable. I hope Ms Bhavani and MICA are reading the comments on this blog, because they best be ready for the ride at the next GE.
Posted by: EverydaySingaporean | Jul 6, 2006 10:00:04 AM
The editors' heads should roll, not yours, MB! Anyway, don't go back to TODAY even if they ask you... I believe writers hate writing within confines? Blog on... forget about writing for those half-past-six papers!
Posted by: coolmosz | Jul 6, 2006 10:01:11 AM
Dear Mr Brown,
I am truly sorry to hear it.
Chin up!
I love your blog, your articles and your family. I love the way showed your love for your family to the world and connect with the rest of us ordinary people out there.
Please don't stop writing or doing your "Mr Brown Show".
All the best for you and your beautiful family.
Posted by: Jing..xx | Jul 6, 2006 10:02:17 AM
Keep smiling everyone. Remember - FOUR MILLION SMILES!
Posted by: mrs budak | Jul 6, 2006 10:02:33 AM
Personally I don't real today, and now I have no intention to ever do so.
I really enjoy your blogs and the painful truths that you shared. I really hope singaporeans could attain the next state of enlightenment, if not we will not be able to move forward as a nation.
We know we love this country.
Posted by: 333 | Jul 6, 2006 10:02:43 AM
I second that thought on creating a paypal donation link..
I will contribute...
Posted by: Franklin | Jul 6, 2006 10:04:36 AM
I sincerely hope that mrbrown does not lose hope and stop writing. Even though the Govt might be against him, he will always have people supporting him.
On a side note, I too will be glad to donate to mrbrown to make up for his lost income from the TODAY column. We should let the Govt and TODAY know that their underhanded means cannot affect our right to freedom of speech and opinion.
Posted by: Andrew | Jul 6, 2006 10:05:37 AM
ah brown,
i very disappointed that Today dun like you anymore.
they suck.
dun't worry, a lot of people still like you. many my spanner weilding fren repair car one still like you.
today we come together scold the Today and SPH, and we see many other people also scold gahmen.
but people scold, and pap stil win. dunno why.
i dunno what i can do to help you. you drive what car? i give you free oil change lor... but you buy engine oil yourself. cos i cannot afford synthetic oil one... knife cooking oil i use for my kub-kia scooter bike.
ah lian,
the pap is the golden eagle, they know what is going on, they are watching......
If Today say they dun put ah brown story liao, we all come here read ah brown and support him ok?
my some fren dunno english, dun have internet, i use office internet print and translate hokkien tell them story. they all very like.
ah lian, always tell your fren (got one word advocate isit?) come read ah brown story here.
even if gahmen those miw agent come and shut down this page, i willing to donate money to ah brown print newspaper and distribute at mrt station.... or at least photostap using my office photomachine lah... hahahaaa....
gahmen and sph sucks, we know, but we know also e-mail forward forward very powerful.... i nowadays scared drink coke, use number [1] PET water bottles, press ATM scared ppl copy code.. you think i know from where? e-mail lor....
ah brown, i help you distribute your story by forward e-mail, and print for my no internet fren. even the malaysia mechanic also say funny. you make fun of him he also nebermind... but our gahmen leh? sucks.... cannot joke and take sarcasm one.
i use screw driver screw sph lah~~
ah brown, i support you, my tear drop on office key board..... wait cleaning auntie scold me....
Posted by: ah beng | Jul 6, 2006 10:08:09 AM
Hi Mr Brown,
We will continue to support you and your family. If you need financial assistance, do feel free to create a Paypal account.
We'll be most glad to contribute to the continuation of this amazing blog. The last avenue for alternate opinions as compared to Govt-controlled media and their vehicles.
Cheers.
The sane Singaporeans.
Posted by: The 33% People | Jul 6, 2006 10:08:47 AM
today is from mediacorp not SPH, right?
Posted by: brownie supporter | Jul 6, 2006 10:09:10 AM
The problem is that Singapore is run much like a corporation, with a monopoly over it's market. The corporation has done well (i.e. earn money.. noted through our increased surplus) over the years but has failed to take into consideration it's workers (i.e. citizens).
The people who runs are corporate score well on IQ ("top talents") but is low on EQ. They cannot get the people to empathise with their policies or approach. The "talents" running the show think too high level, always going for the "greater good". However, what is so called good for Singapore's progress does not necessary translate to being good for an average citizen (e.g. increase cost of living). we are unwilling to slow down our pace caused we've been "brainwashed" that doing so will slow our porgress and cause our "doom".
Allowing corporation to increase profits keep the corporation happy so that they stay on in Singapore (for MNCs) and increase the coffer of the investors (be in Singaporean or foreign). Supposedly this will increase employment rate and make Singapore more competitive. But is this really true? Corporation's main objective is to earn money, not to give out jobs. If a corporation can increase profits by just raising their charges, it will not necessary increase its manpower (as it is, most corporation will employ 8 people to do 10 people's work... all of us "happily" putting in 10+ hours a day when our official working hours is closer to 8). So does this translate to greater employment? I'm not so sure.
Although most citizens will not be able to see the same views as the government, but they are also afraid to make a mistake, so most will still vote for PAP. The main reason PAP won the election is more due to the "credibility" (or lack of) of the opponents rather than any overwhelming support.
People has commented that we should vote for the opposition, I'm not so sure. Will the opposition be better? I'm also not so sure. Frankly, I also don't have much faith on the opposition.
What is left for me to do? Migrate? But I miss my friends and my family and other countries not necessary much better either.
So all I can do is rant and make noise and hopefully things get "better" (everyday just keep fingers cross and keep getting disappointed). I'm sure MB share the same view but he end up getting the short end of the stick cause he is a well known person and his "rants" raffles some feathers and make some people uncomfortable.
What is a sad state we have come to.
Posted by: KT | Jul 6, 2006 10:10:02 AM
dude, dont take it to hard man! You are an inspiration and the voice of so many and that counts for alot dude! Keep on believing and keep doing what you do!
My personal opinion for a long time is the only good thing about Today paper is it comes in handy for my bird cage..the size is just right!! Thanks Today!!
Posted by: mystivan | Jul 6, 2006 10:10:34 AM
Thank you for your writings. Such over-reacting gestures from Today and MICA lead to much disappointments. Your blog will continue to be my daily web diet. Be greatly blessed.
Posted by: weipeng | Jul 6, 2006 10:10:39 AM
Seldom a 140th Today reader, Singaporeans cannot even rant on the about the "upgrading" issues after the election? What a cheap shot!
Been following your blog since election period. Keep on blogging as you write better than I am. Who cares about reading Today? Remember - Do not join STOMP those who did had sold their souls.
You have my support.
Erasure.
Posted by: erasure | Jul 6, 2006 10:11:16 AM
my paper's 80 cents now goes to MB's pay pal hahaha
Posted by: hopeful | Jul 6, 2006 10:11:22 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQeJE47VbhY&search=boundin%27
Roll with the punches.
Take care.
Posted by: C Lee | Jul 6, 2006 10:13:18 AM
Dear Mr.Brown,
Keep on doing what you do best.
Posted by: G.O.A.T | Jul 6, 2006 10:13:39 AM
MB, you've articulated the grassroot issues in Truth. MICA slamming it as "polemity" & "partisan" is behaving like the ostrich; sticking it's head into the ground and exposing it's a***.
Denial won't take us forward, will it?
Don't stop helping the ordinary folks express these real frustrations - keep blogging.
Posted by: Dennis | Jul 6, 2006 10:14:46 AM
Hi MB! I've always enjoyed reading your columns. Stay strong there! Don't stop writing because of a letter written by an "armchair expert" who does not experience Singapore the way we do. You have the support of us little folk in Singapore.
Posted by: Shi | Jul 6, 2006 10:16:30 AM
dear Mr.Brown,
Feel sorry to heard TODAY suspence the Mr.Brown column... but not Mr.Chocolate right?! who cares about tiny column, we can't hear your voice from there anyway!!
Which side are you on?
Posted by: fang | Jul 6, 2006 10:18:19 AM
http://talkback.stomp.com.sg/forums/showthread.php?t=951&page=3
This guy kenken in STOMP says all the comments here are rubbish and that all the people here are only whining.
He is the 38% that voted PAP in Hougang...
Posted by: kenken=PAP | Jul 6, 2006 10:19:12 AM
hey mrbrown.. you're still much loved by us... you'll always have our support... you've been an inspiration to us all..
Posted by: elvin | Jul 6, 2006 10:22:10 AM
Just hear about your suspension over at UFM1003 today. It surprised me. On one hand govt had asked Singaporeans to voice out on the other hand they tried so hard to ban those who really voiced they thought of what most of us had.
As for the Ms Bhavani not sure is she act by herself or someone on top. If she is act on her own I can only say she is those "lucky" top few percent of Singaporeans who wouldn't be affected by any new policies, charges ... that govt issued because they had been taken care of. If she is acting on behalf of MICA than so much the "softer touch".
Singapore is a long way to go to be democrate. anyone know why Singapore is call "Republic of Singapore"? Any Star Wars fans here. Where is the emperor?
Mr Brown keep blogging you got all our support.
Posted by: Johnny | Jul 6, 2006 10:22:16 AM
Dear Mr Brown,
Thank you for your heartfelt article. It spoke out my thoughts and feelings. I must confessed that I did vote for PAP during the last election and now I see my folly in doing so. I know your article is not to discredit the government, but MICA reply in this issue and many other incidents have finally destory whatever trust and hope I have in them. This can of worms is slowing opening up. Many people will get to see these worms and hopefully changes will be make in the future.Honestly I dont not have a solution to the current state. But one thing i can do, to help my family(wife, daughter and son) to see the worms in this can. hopefully the next time round, our one vote will make the different.
Posted by: one vote | Jul 6, 2006 10:22:43 AM
Sadly, no matter how much we rant about this incident here, we have no choice but to rely on state-controlled media for local news. This is just a passing thought, but could we create a website like wikinews but for local news? That way, we can have a news avenue without any "intervention".
Posted by: Andrew | Jul 6, 2006 10:23:22 AM
i just receivd this email from bhavani.;
is it a JOKE or what????
Dear Ms Cheong
Thank you for your feedback.
Mr Brown gave his take on several issues in his column last week. I
responded, on behalf of the Government, to his column as it was necessary
to address these issues.
Yours sincerely
Bhavani
K BHAVANI | Press Sec To Minister and Director, Corporate Communications
Department | Organisation Management Division
Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts
( 6837 9865 6 6837 9837
www.mica.gov.sg
Creative People, Gracious Community, Connected Singapore
Posted by: chinchowdoll | Jul 6, 2006 10:23:33 AM
Hey. I got idea liao...
Instead boycott Today dun take their free newspaper, we all go and pak chio (rob) the Today newspaper uncle, take all his newspaper so other people dun have anymore liao.... then send back to printer let them hey-lan (puzzled)
I using newspaper to cover my customer car floor mat, and fender cover.... protect dirty and scratch... they say straits time the ink sometimes drop off when wet, Today better, but i take out stapler so no scratch the fender cover. customer service mah~~~~
i got 2 rabbit, they pang sai (poo) on Today newspaper also, cos the size just nice to put in their cage, i no need to fold... Mwahahahahahaaaaa.....
Posted by: ah beng | Jul 6, 2006 10:24:10 AM
We love you MrBrown, you'll always have our support! Continue with your blog, we all love it.
Posted by: Nexgen | Jul 6, 2006 10:24:50 AM
This is sad indeed and I'm just disappointed that Today had pulled the plug. Guess there isn't much if a choice especially when gahment owned the media & press...erm actually pretty much everything else too. Well so much for promoting information and arts by MICA nevertheless MB do keep writing.
Posted by: dada | Jul 6, 2006 10:25:28 AM
Hello MB,
You are James Gomez the second.
jamesgomeznews.blogspot.com
Lee Hsien Loong is even more ruthless than his old dad...i think....
Next to suffer will be Gayle Goh....
good luck
Posted by: James Gomez | Jul 6, 2006 10:26:06 AM
don't let them bring you down. keep doing what you do best. take care..
Posted by: starmist | Jul 6, 2006 10:26:52 AM
*to my cats* Hey kittys.. look fresh papers to poo on...mint and unread!
Well... at least now you can restart your SNE posts. I miss those.
Posted by: errol | Jul 6, 2006 10:27:09 AM
Those golden eagle know how to watch only lah - like those chee ko lao ah pek, can't perform one.
ah brown, you need extra income hor, let me know.
I got jiemei in Austalia. She can help you sell ter kwa shirts. She say her ah lao Howard very nice one. Don't get upset even when TV shows make fun of him.
You can start company to sell Brown podcast merchandise, more popular than those superman capes.
Posted by: ah lian | Jul 6, 2006 10:27:09 AM
Some points:
1. The government's response? How predictable and "creative"
2. Boycott the Straits Times. Which paper on earth charges online subscription fee.
3. Look. There really is nothing special about the Straits Times anyway except propaganda. Everyone is better off reading another paper that states things of importance.
4. I sure hope everyone posting here makes their feelings felt at the polling booth.
Posted by: Top Dog | Jul 6, 2006 10:28:19 AM
wah mystiven, you same idea as me siah~~ just you type faster than me using 2 finger type only....
Posted by: ah beng | Jul 6, 2006 10:29:37 AM
i think it's hilarious that they can end their emails with 'creative people, gracious community, connected singapore'.
what world are they living in???
Posted by: chinchowdoll | Jul 6, 2006 10:36:05 AM
"Truth ran away a long time ago and didn't leave a forwarding address. There are two sides. For and against. Us Vs. Them. Truth? There is only one truth: Us is right; Them is not only wrong, but evil. Attack with anything and everything that can be used against Them; ignore anything and everything that can be used against Us." by Sin on the ceased Superpet Forums
Posted by: tiger4 | Jul 6, 2006 10:36:37 AM
Cool.. suspended column = u can spend more time with your babes... your family misses u..
Posted by: get-a-life | Jul 6, 2006 10:37:02 AM
Looking on the bright side for myself, I do not have to anymore jolly join in the Q for TODAY papers every morning at my workplace...(which usually sucks due to a long Q of old retired folks in front of all the working people)
B'cos the only reason I took the TODAY is to read your column~ But I'm still visiting u on your webpage~
Keep it going!
Posted by: Brianc | Jul 6, 2006 10:37:02 AM
Your column was the only one worth reading in all the English-language dailies. If anything, this turn of events has pretty much made a martyr of you in the eyes of the Singaporean public.
I know I'll remain a faithful reader of your blog.
(So say we all! :)
Posted by: germaine | Jul 6, 2006 10:37:06 AM
feel damn disgusted the Today management don't dare to stand by their employees. what a sad state of affairs.
Posted by: wah lao | Jul 6, 2006 10:37:50 AM
So much for hearing what an average singaporean has to say. can someone back up the files for this blog so that we can hear what PAP has to say when the next election comes.
Posted by: 4 glass walls | Jul 6, 2006 10:41:01 AM
WTF You saw BAHVANI'S EMAIL SIGNATURE TAGLINE????
"Creative People, Gracious Community, Connected Singapore"
Creative People = mr brown ok?
Gracious Community = allowing different points of view to exist!
Connected Singapore = know who the fuck mrbrown is because he's all over the internet.
I conclude Ms Bahvani sucks as her own job!
Posted by: whoa! | Jul 6, 2006 10:41:48 AM
You are not joking right?
Just because of that article? So much so for "asking for feedback". I guess it will make more of us shut up.
Posted by: DK | Jul 6, 2006 10:43:32 AM
TODAY has no idea what a huge mistake they are making. besides, it doesnt really make sense since an Editor approved ur article in the first place. so if ur column is suspended, shouldnt mrEditor be suspended as well?
but anyway, we are all behind you mrbrown. do continue inspiring all of us readers with all your stories and posts. you've been an inspiration, really. take care.
(:
Posted by: jing | Jul 6, 2006 10:44:41 AM
mrbrown,
dont ever lose Faith,
people like you make me proud to be singaporean.
it is too easy to get cynical and jaded in a country like ours.
keep on writing - the pen is mightier than the sword!
Posted by: chinchowdoll | Jul 6, 2006 10:45:01 AM
hey brownie, cheer up. heeps of ppl out there love your stuffs. just do a backup of your archives in case 'someone' wanna shut this site down (they can do anything.. hah). but still, we all still yearn for a CD collection of Mr Brown's stuff years later rite? ciaoz.
btw, gah'men sucked and it's a fact.
Posted by: kingtay | Jul 6, 2006 10:46:25 AM
I have stopped my ST subscription and will stop reading TODAY.
It's the least we can do to show that we are not willing to just sit around and allow people to screw us again and again.
It has already been proven that voicing out is insufficient; it can be conveniently ignored or easily suppressed.
They can ignore our emails, they can choose not to print our letters, but without readership, newspaper is nothing.
"Whatever you do may seem insignificant, but it is most important that you do it."
Posted by: ly | Jul 6, 2006 10:46:49 AM
okay lar.... we started from your blog, and now we still have it
so we didn't lose anything (yet) :)
Posted by: Ark | Jul 6, 2006 10:47:15 AM
Brown f'ler...
steady lah... you're femes 'politician' liao... And silly me alwiz tot you were juz a plain ol' blogger-columnist...
Which party do you belong to, btw? The coalition of coffee drinkers?
Posted by: vandice | Jul 6, 2006 10:47:51 AM
Haiz...somehow this is not too surprising for me. When is there ever freedom of speech in Singapore? If there is no means for us to reflect and spar our views, we can't be blamed to be insensitive to Singapore's politics. Why should we care, if our views will never be listened.
Let's cross our fingers that the gahmen will not close this site.
Posted by: why | Jul 6, 2006 10:48:34 AM
Hi mrbrown,
you don't have to say anything.
we ALL appreciate your plain-speaking way of telling the truth. Calling a spade a spade.
You still have your blog.
Let's see how things develop and get on from there.
Continue your podcasts!
Cheers
Dr. Huang
Posted by: Dr. Huang | Jul 6, 2006 10:49:11 AM
mb, consider yourself BoingBoing-ed :)
http://www.boingboing.net/2006/07/05/singapore_gov_condem.html
Posted by: geekgeek | Jul 6, 2006 10:51:41 AM
This is indeed a sad day for media freedom in Singapore. It is an act of self-censorship by TODAY. There was no need to completely suspend mr brown's column. At most, TODAY could have avoided publishing political commentaries by mr brown that may offend the Government. By going all the way and suspending mr brown's column (which more often than not contains benign non-political humour), TODAY has demonstrated its willingness to "go the extra mile" to second guess what they think the Government Ministers want to see.
http://singaporepatriot.blogspot.com
Posted by: Singapore Patriot | Jul 6, 2006 10:51:53 AM
Hello KT,
PAP has repeatedly say Singapore is a company , Singapore Inc.
Singapore is not a country.
We ar not citizens but digits and employees only.
We are a cost and when we grow old, PAP wants us to 'conveniently die off' or offload to retirement villages.
Singaporeans are nothing to PAP as long as they do not contribute CPF,
Singapore is not for Singaporeans but for PAP and foreigners....
Posted by: sad case | Jul 6, 2006 10:52:19 AM
Quick...strike while the iron is hot...get the online petition going...
Posted by: blackfeline | Jul 6, 2006 10:53:33 AM
tot the gov ready to open up, get closer to us the 'commoner'.. this episode had set them back way far from reaching dat vision.. so utterly dissapointed..
Posted by: optimistic not any more | Jul 6, 2006 10:53:53 AM
Another idea: Over the next few days, mail your copy of Today newspaper to MICA, PMO or Mediacorp, with an attached note "Reinstate Mr. Brown column"
Posted by: Send it back | Jul 6, 2006 10:53:57 AM
Well, seems to me that the suspension from TODAY had nothing to do with MICA and was a decision made by TODAY in its own interests, so we can stop blaming that on MICA for the time being.
And give MICA a break, I think they need more time to prepare their "press kit", like what happened with the Temasek Holdings acquisition ;-) let's see if they send out their internal press kit to the press again.
And, mrbrown? you know what I think? TIME FOR ANOTHER SNE *LOL* Now that they've bothered replying to your TODAY column I'm sure all of us have learned alot about this government that we, as a people, have just kept in power for the 41st year.
Posted by: kureshii | Jul 6, 2006 10:55:20 AM
Hello, I'm new and heard you people have a whole net culture. If feelings are so strong, why not use your tech savvy to host an online 'no confidence' referendum instead of being so resigned:
#1 To wit, that the floor has no confidence that the current administration posseses either the ability or the will to lower the cost of living and thus the burden on the average citizenry. Aye or nay ?
#2 To wit, that the floor has no confidence that the average citizen, on account of the cost of living, will have a place in his own country to retire with reasonable comfort after 60 as long as it is governed by this administration. Aye or nay ?
This will not replicate the recent GE as it is issue specific rather than a general comment on administration performance
If the majority response is 'nay', then this administration may indeed enjoy silent majority support. If the 'ayes' have it, any astute politician may want to take note. Either way, fair is fair. Or don't tell me we have lost interest in the topic already ?
Posted by: sw | Jul 6, 2006 10:56:53 AM
let this be a telling example of why singapore leaders are blatant hypocrites.
--------
Lee told reporters Singapore's government had "no reason to want to restrict any democratic or political rights of opposition politicians or leaders'' and that free speech was allowed as long as speakers stayed within the law.
"You can make speeches, you can publish articles, you can put things up on the Internet, you can speak _ we have a speakers' corner which is highly underutilized _ and contest elections,'' he said.
---------------
Posted by: loupgarou | Jul 6, 2006 10:57:58 AM
mr brown, i've been following your column since the first issue, even when i'm oversea! sad to hear that TODAY has suspended your column.
carry on your blog! all the way!
Posted by: viz | Jul 6, 2006 10:58:44 AM
This reall disgusted me. It does not matter whether the MICA call for the suspension, or the Today doing it for their own interest. This show that the MIW can and does control the media.
Let's hope the 666 would wake up and realized that it was never the west who had misunderstood our 'uniqueness', but it is our 'uniqueness' that deserve the 140th ranking.
Posted by: MICASUX | Jul 6, 2006 11:00:06 AM
I don’t know what to say. Seems like injustice happens everyday in Singapore and nothing is being done about it.
Every Friday, I would try my very best to get hold of a copy of Today and the only reason is because of MrBrown’s column. Otherwise, there is really no great loss not reading Today (or Straits Times). I believe we can get better articles from other news sources.
Posted by: silk | Jul 6, 2006 11:02:32 AM
Hey MB, just because they suspended you Today column, doesn't mean you can slack ok? We'll still be reading your blog! Who needs newspapers anyway?
加油!
(So say we all!)
Posted by: spuid | Jul 6, 2006 11:02:44 AM
A sad day for Singapore. What they have been saying about wanting true feedback and opinions - all bullshit.
Like to hear from the man himself. LBY is retiring; want to hear from mm or pm. Like to see how they throw smoke for the 66.6%
Posted by: bb | Jul 6, 2006 11:04:21 AM
ITS TIME FOR A NEW SNE, I mean come on, you slacked off long enough, now that you don't actually have to write a column for today, its time to bring back the SNE series..
1) only in singapore where everyone knows who the person is behind their pen name can you be said to be Hiding behind a pseudonym....right out in the open.
Posted by: loupgarou | Jul 6, 2006 11:05:35 AM
Dear Mr. Brown,
I have been following your blog for quite a while and really enjoy reading your works.
Please continue to write and do your podcasts as you have many fans and supporters. We love your works.
It is sad to see that the way the govt, unable to handle criticism, uses the press/newspapers to blackout stuff that are negative to them. No longer do I trust the newspaper reports but I search on the net for a more balanced view.
Thank u for providing the alternative read,
Thank u for providing us with a voice in Singapore,
Thank u for bringing much joy and laughter to our mundane lives.
Thank u Mr. Brown
Posted by: JL | Jul 6, 2006 11:05:45 AM
This reinforce the point that the newspapers are controlled by the government. Something trival happens, the government kicked up a fuss and the very same editors in Today who cleared the article panicked and make a hasty decision which is totally unfair to a man who's just trying to express his views.
We have totally no freedom of speech, OB markers everywhere, state controlled media, government hawks eyeing anyone who steps out of line. Before the elections, they encourage us to think, to give our views and use words such as "inclusive society". Yet now, they punished a man who merely gave a humourous take on the growing concerns of Singaporeans at the rising costs of living.
I think the government have a lot of work to do to overhaul its arrogant, inhumane and high handed image. They can start by sacking all the PR people who's lost touch with the ground and continuously gives bad advice.
Posted by: Chong | Jul 6, 2006 11:08:23 AM
USA Govt is more liberal and can take humor in their stride, so unlike some government system.
Some Govt really kanna sai!
Posted by: Suhendra | Jul 6, 2006 11:08:36 AM
i never liked the today paper, except for your friday column. bring back `STREATS'.
Today paper never lived up to its slogan:
TODAY is a compact newspaper with quality content that is distributed free in Singapore, Mondays to Saturdays. Launched in November 2000, TODAY has established a reputation for sharply angled news reports and thought-provoking analyses and commentaries, living up to its slogan "We set you thinking". The paper's news comment columns - written by staff and a wide range of contributors and covering both local and global issues -are a particular strength.
STOP LYING! COWARD!
Posted by: Joe | Jul 6, 2006 11:08:50 AM
Terribly disappointing to hear this.
Posted by: vish | Jul 6, 2006 11:15:39 AM
*hugs*
Posted by: startears | Jul 6, 2006 11:16:00 AM
Maybe they will get alll the Pro PAP journalist to take over.
Chua sisters, Loh chee kong, aaron low, tan sai siong, nicholas fang etc..
please add on the list...
LOL
Posted by: lol | Jul 6, 2006 11:17:00 AM
Mr. Brown,
You have our support. Do not be discouraged.
Posted by: Bill | Jul 6, 2006 11:17:19 AM
MrBrown: From these turn of events, you've already gained more than even Today nor the Govt can even imagined. Like the Acidflask saga, this is likely to end up giving our current civil administration yet another internationally recognized black-eye. It's too bad the govt preached about engaging the public as seen in their 2006 manifesto, yet they've instead slammed down against an everyday man who speaks as how others truly feel. See the disappointing disconnect?
Posted by: Kevin | Jul 6, 2006 11:17:40 AM
I'm deeply saddened to know that your column has been suspended. It has been part of our (my boyfriend & I) ritual to look out for your columnm and catch up on the latest "posting" in print.
Your writings has become a weekend ritual for both of us.
We love your witty writings.
Who would have known that a Press Secretary who did not do her homework properly (so obvious, mrbrown hiding behind a name? com'on! do a better analysis) would be so harsh in her writing?
I am deeply saddened by the fact that the perceived transparency is only "perceived", not actual. Speech is still controlled.
YOu have my support mrbrown! Ganbatte! Press this aside and stride on with gusto!
Posted by: Grace Ang | Jul 6, 2006 11:18:02 AM
Copied and Paste from Littlespeck. This question is worth brainstorming. Examine the Pros and Cons
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http://littlespeck.com/content/polit...ics-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 parliamen