Freedom with responsibility the Singapore way, unlike West

What moral authority do Westerners have to lecture Singapore when their societies are in a shambles? (S’pore hits back at Economist: Protesters not in court over criticism; March 18)

Perhaps they have been blinded by their fervour to seek freedom, which has resulted in stagnant economies, dysfunctional families, social discord and dilapidated infrastructure.

Despite how some foreign media portray Singapore, we are far from being a labour concentration camp. We enjoy great freedoms. We feel safe on the streets because they are free from drugs and guns. Crime rates are relatively low.

We are free to express our views, but must be careful not to disrupt social harmony. We seek a responsible press that offers balanced reporting. Anyone who feels maligned by an article has a right to be heard.

We have been brought up to have manners, be considerate, respect public property and abide by the law for the common good. Has being a civil society made us a repressed people?

Nobody coerced us into voting for a certain political party. Voting is mandatory, which gives the elected a clear mandate to govern.

As for judicial independence, who has the last word? Is a judiciary independent because it has consistently ruled against the establishment? Likewise, is it partial if it has done the opposite? Cases brought before the Bench have their own merits.

The self-appointed adjudicators with foreign press badges, or armchair critics at best, do not have the last say on this.

We celebrate equality in Singapore because of meritocracy. Education is a leveller, and accessible to all.

We have not lowered the bar for underachievers or raised it for overachievers just for the sake of appearing equal.

I cannot help but think that maybe because we have not played out some scripts — that we should remain in the Third World, with revolving governments, rioting, poverty and unrestrained freedom of speech — we have invited uncalled-for taunts.

Our circumstances are unique. We should find the way that works for Singapore. Freedom comes with responsibility lest we go down the path of the West.