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Why Myanmar can develop in a different way from Singapore

The comment by Myanmar democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi that her people enjoy a more relaxed way of life, compared to Singapore, sounds enticing (“Myanmar should not seek to recreate S’pore’s policies”; Sept 24).

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Lee Hong Leong

The comment by Myanmar democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi that her people enjoy a more relaxed way of life, compared to Singapore, sounds enticing (“Myanmar should not seek to recreate S’pore’s policies”; Sept 24).

Given Myanmar’s size and natural resources, it is possible to develop in a less stressful way.

In comparison, Singapore is a small nation without natural resources. The only resources we have are a clean, effective government and an efficient, skilful and hardworking people.

A millionaire could stop working and tell an office worker to do the same. What comes next is obvious.

Singapore has been likened to a very large firm, which is true to a certain extent. As we compete globally, many countries are waiting to steal our lunch.

It is a jungle out there; if we slow down, then we will slide down the path of no return, just like Nokia and BlackBerry.

Without assessing the environment and position we are in, it would thus be naive to take the comments of others too seriously.

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