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UNIT 2

UNDERSTANDING GOVERNANCE 

pRINCIPLES OF GOVERNANCE

Most Important

Leadership is key

  • Honest and incorruptible 

  • Outstanding personal qualities .

  • Must be pragmatic enough to do what is right rather than what is popular.

  • The will to make unpopular but right decisions.

  • For example , the government went ahead to introduce NEWater despite concerns regarding its hygiene as the government felt it was the most effective solution to Singapore's water shortage problem .

  • Thus , good leaders are able to inspire the people by coming up with good policies. they will be able to win the support of people when decisions are made for the good for the country.

 

Without good leadership , no right policies will be made as there are no good leaders to make proper decisions for the country . In this regard , the principle of leadership is key is the most important factor . 

 

 

Anticipate Change and stay relevant

  • Government must be forward looking 

  • Take risks to meet future challenges 

  • For example , Singapore decided to built the 2 integrated Resorts (IR) at Marina Bay and Sentosa to attract tourists and boost Singapore's tourism sector .The decision ensures that Singapore stays ahead in regional tourism and our economy can continue to grow .

  • Singapore has also taken steps to ensure that Singapore is self sufficient in water supply , this has been done through producing NEWater and deslinated water , which are alternatives to raw water from Malaysia.

  • A good government must have the ability to meet the needs of the people , Since Singapore is limited in resources , a government that carefully plans ahead willbe able to meet the people's needs and win their support . 

 

Reward for work and work for reward 

  • Meritocracy 

  • Work for reward and reward for hard work is when the government rewards those who do well . 

  • For example, Students who excel in their studies will recieve Edusave scholarships or Merit Burasries.

  • This prinicple encourages people to continue to work hard to help Singapore develope and stay ahead of the competition . A fair government that gives its people equal opportunites will be able to gain the support of the people .

 

A stake for everyone and opportunities for all

  • Having a say in decision- making develops a greater sense of belonging to the country . 

  • For example , in 2004 the government consulted the people on the issue of having a casino as a paart of an Integrated Resort . Many people voiced their support and concerns through feedbacks .

  • As more people are committed to the country and help build Singapore , this principle is able to achieve good governance .

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