Sunday, October 28, 2007
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
New Chapter 2007...trying my luck on RADIO AND TV LICENCE..sent on 10th JAN 2007...NO LUCK TOO!
Thank you for writing to us. We do appreciate your making the effort. We receive 70 letters on average each day. Limited space means we can publish only about a dozen every weekday. This means having to make often-difficult editorial judgments on which letters to publish. We regret we are unable to publish your letter, and hope you will appreciate the constraints on space we face every day. We hope you will continue taking an interest in the Forum Page.
Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aizafor Forum Editor
The Straits Times" Nick Pedro
10/01/2007 08:04 AM
To:stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject
ST Forum
To: Straits Times,
ST Forum
To The Editor
I wish to submit this to your forum in VOICES.It is the time of the year when we need to pay the TV and Radio license. I note that half the programme that I am watching is probably trailers and advertisements. I usually watch the news and probably some serial and movies, and that goes for the rest of my family. Most of my entertainment is from watching DVD movies rented from shops and kiosks, which stalls recently screened movies, serials and documentaries. I do not watch the Indian movies although I am an Indian, as these movies ends late at night. Basically I am only watch probably about an average of 3 hours of TV and Radio a day. I note that there is a large variety of programmes in the Chinese section. There are two channels dedicated to Chinese programmes. The news in the Chinese programmes is very detailed and consists of many local news. Whereas, the English news are very fast, constricted with less information and news, especially on local news. Maybe the present TV Company should take the cue from cable TV companies.These make me to wonder why I am paying as much as a Chinese viewer when I am practically watching less news and fewer programmes. I would appreciate it since I am watching about an average of 3 hours per day on one TV at home, that I be charged at a pro rata payment as this would enable me to offset my DVD rentals. I find that it is not be justifiable to charge me a full license when I am watching less than others. Thank you and best regards
Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aizafor Forum Editor
The Straits Times" Nick Pedro
10/01/2007 08:04 AM
To:stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject
ST Forum
To: Straits Times,
ST Forum
To The Editor
I wish to submit this to your forum in VOICES.It is the time of the year when we need to pay the TV and Radio license. I note that half the programme that I am watching is probably trailers and advertisements. I usually watch the news and probably some serial and movies, and that goes for the rest of my family. Most of my entertainment is from watching DVD movies rented from shops and kiosks, which stalls recently screened movies, serials and documentaries. I do not watch the Indian movies although I am an Indian, as these movies ends late at night. Basically I am only watch probably about an average of 3 hours of TV and Radio a day. I note that there is a large variety of programmes in the Chinese section. There are two channels dedicated to Chinese programmes. The news in the Chinese programmes is very detailed and consists of many local news. Whereas, the English news are very fast, constricted with less information and news, especially on local news. Maybe the present TV Company should take the cue from cable TV companies.These make me to wonder why I am paying as much as a Chinese viewer when I am practically watching less news and fewer programmes. I would appreciate it since I am watching about an average of 3 hours per day on one TV at home, that I be charged at a pro rata payment as this would enable me to offset my DVD rentals. I find that it is not be justifiable to charge me a full license when I am watching less than others. Thank you and best regards
POLLUTION...REJECTED sent on 14 dec 2006
Thank you for writing to us. We do appreciate your making the effort. We receive 70 letters on average each day. Limited space means we can publish only about a dozen every weekday. This means having to make often-difficult editorial judgments on which letters to publish. We regret we are unable to publish your letter, and hope you will appreciate the constraints on space we face every day. We hope you will continue taking an interest in the Forum Page.
Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aizafor
Forum Editor
The Straits Times"
Nick Pedro
14/12/2006 09:02 AM
To
stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject:FORUM
To The Editor,
Straits TimesThe Forum,
I wish to submit my entry as follows,I notice that the air around us is getting dustier day by day. This is happening in spite of the decline of forest burning in Indonesia or whether it is windy or not. The air quality is definitely a concern as it affects asthmatic patients. It is also the cause of potential asthmatic, bronchitis and sinus prone patients. Is the National Environment Ministry or the Health Ministry taking samples of air around Singapore and determining the causes of air pollution. I also wish that the National Parks to investigate if trees around are attracting and accumulation dusts, which in turn gets blown into homes. The surprising thing is that some twenty years ago the dusts are not as rampant as it is now. More surprising is that it affects homes at higher levels too. Are the developments, in terms of construction, the principal cause?For the record, whenever I clean up my house in a couple of day’s later dust settles down again. Imagine we are breathing air together with these dust particles. It puzzles me where these dust are generated from. I would also wish that the Town Councils who are responsible for the exterior walls of buildings employ contractors to wash walls, windows sills, etc. We can keep our environment clean but we also nee to keep the air clean, for healthier living.
Thank you
Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aizafor
Forum Editor
The Straits Times"
Nick Pedro
14/12/2006 09:02 AM
To
stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject:FORUM
To The Editor,
Straits TimesThe Forum,
I wish to submit my entry as follows,I notice that the air around us is getting dustier day by day. This is happening in spite of the decline of forest burning in Indonesia or whether it is windy or not. The air quality is definitely a concern as it affects asthmatic patients. It is also the cause of potential asthmatic, bronchitis and sinus prone patients. Is the National Environment Ministry or the Health Ministry taking samples of air around Singapore and determining the causes of air pollution. I also wish that the National Parks to investigate if trees around are attracting and accumulation dusts, which in turn gets blown into homes. The surprising thing is that some twenty years ago the dusts are not as rampant as it is now. More surprising is that it affects homes at higher levels too. Are the developments, in terms of construction, the principal cause?For the record, whenever I clean up my house in a couple of day’s later dust settles down again. Imagine we are breathing air together with these dust particles. It puzzles me where these dust are generated from. I would also wish that the Town Councils who are responsible for the exterior walls of buildings employ contractors to wash walls, windows sills, etc. We can keep our environment clean but we also nee to keep the air clean, for healthier living.
Thank you
MRT AND TRAINS...THROWN OUT!!!!
Thank you for writing to us. We do appreciate your making the effort. We receive 70 letters on average each day. Limited space means we can publish only about a dozen every weekday. This means having to make often-difficult editorial judgments on which letters to publish. We regret we are unable to publish your letter, and hope you will appreciate the constraints on space we face every day. We hope you will continue taking an interest in the Forum Page.Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aiza
for Forum Editor
The Straits Times"
Nick Pedro nickpdr@yahoo.com.sg
06/11/2006 09:08 AM
To:stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject:MRT AND TRAINS
To The Editor,
Straits Times,
Forum,
Every time when we are inconvenienced by the public transportation we tend to discriminate against our fellow commuters. This has been a perennial problem. Day after day we hear about the woes in the transportation system, whether it is private or public. There is never a good system that we make private cars owners to change their traveling mode to public transport. I think the time is right now.We hear cries of complaints that commuters rushing for their seats, blocking of entrances and exits, failure to give up seats, crossing of legs or placing of personal articles thus occupying two seats, close contacts with strange body odours, bad air ventilation, and the list goes on.I would like to reiterate that, the next time when we come across such an incidence, do not jump into conclusion and point the finger at a fellow commuter. One simply does not understand that when a commuter pays a fare, it is for a seat on the trains. No one pays for a fare to stand. Sub-consciously commuters need to have a seat. It is an entitlement and it is an explicit contract with the train company. However, due to the long waiting period and poor design the train company has flouted its obligation to provide seats for all commuters. Similarly this goes for the buses.It is sad to note that although there is a jump in our population there is not much going to have the carriages upgraded. Our platform is built to accommodate only six carriages, therefore we cannot extend the present carriages to eight or even ten. If there is a way, even the carriages could be widened to accommodate more seats with smoother ride, lush ambience and piped music, however there is cost involved. Any increase in the frequency of train trips during peak hours will burn a huge big hole in SMRT’s pocket. I am sure that the obedient commuters can still fork out a three to five cents increase, if it is going to be speedier, comfortable and convenient than a taxi.The air conditioning is a shame or should a say a sham. I hope that we do not catch Legionnaires disease. A train taken in a cool morning at about 6.30 am can make you arrive at your destination as if you were just out from a sauna. This has been going on despite much feedback. SMRT should try and diversify into spa business.I would therefore suggest that SMRT has four categories of transport charges. These are namely, “Seating”, Non-Seating, Air Conditioned and Non-Air conditioned. However, please place a disclaimer for the “seating”, with “Seat At Your Own Risk”.The same goes for our buses. I am sure we all enjoy luxury tour buses. Why do the present SMRT buses do not have enough leg room, seats that are comfortable, drivers that are not braking abruptly and turning sharply veering bus commuters like a pendulum and having cool air conditioning system in a humid country like ours. The buses we have are sometimes shared with roaches, the air condition gives out “steam”, the seats are so smooth that one can slip out of their seat at bends, the standing room is enough for one person with anorexic, and while waiting for a bus the men can shave and ladies can do their make-ups (especially during peak hours).I would suggest that we should create another body for the transport system, to oversee the LTA and PTC and name it LATE (Land And Transport Entity). This body will ensure that the authorities concern will walk the talk. A failure to improve the system would cost the member of LTA & PTC, to loose their cars and take the public transport system for a full one year. Ultimately, it is deemed that there is no keen interest to make the transportation the best we have ever seen. In doing that people will be satisfied, maintenance cost will increase and revenue will decline. I only hope I am wrong.
Ms Noor Aiza
for Forum Editor
The Straits Times"
Nick Pedro nickpdr@yahoo.com.sg
06/11/2006 09:08 AM
To:stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject:MRT AND TRAINS
To The Editor,
Straits Times,
Forum,
Every time when we are inconvenienced by the public transportation we tend to discriminate against our fellow commuters. This has been a perennial problem. Day after day we hear about the woes in the transportation system, whether it is private or public. There is never a good system that we make private cars owners to change their traveling mode to public transport. I think the time is right now.We hear cries of complaints that commuters rushing for their seats, blocking of entrances and exits, failure to give up seats, crossing of legs or placing of personal articles thus occupying two seats, close contacts with strange body odours, bad air ventilation, and the list goes on.I would like to reiterate that, the next time when we come across such an incidence, do not jump into conclusion and point the finger at a fellow commuter. One simply does not understand that when a commuter pays a fare, it is for a seat on the trains. No one pays for a fare to stand. Sub-consciously commuters need to have a seat. It is an entitlement and it is an explicit contract with the train company. However, due to the long waiting period and poor design the train company has flouted its obligation to provide seats for all commuters. Similarly this goes for the buses.It is sad to note that although there is a jump in our population there is not much going to have the carriages upgraded. Our platform is built to accommodate only six carriages, therefore we cannot extend the present carriages to eight or even ten. If there is a way, even the carriages could be widened to accommodate more seats with smoother ride, lush ambience and piped music, however there is cost involved. Any increase in the frequency of train trips during peak hours will burn a huge big hole in SMRT’s pocket. I am sure that the obedient commuters can still fork out a three to five cents increase, if it is going to be speedier, comfortable and convenient than a taxi.The air conditioning is a shame or should a say a sham. I hope that we do not catch Legionnaires disease. A train taken in a cool morning at about 6.30 am can make you arrive at your destination as if you were just out from a sauna. This has been going on despite much feedback. SMRT should try and diversify into spa business.I would therefore suggest that SMRT has four categories of transport charges. These are namely, “Seating”, Non-Seating, Air Conditioned and Non-Air conditioned. However, please place a disclaimer for the “seating”, with “Seat At Your Own Risk”.The same goes for our buses. I am sure we all enjoy luxury tour buses. Why do the present SMRT buses do not have enough leg room, seats that are comfortable, drivers that are not braking abruptly and turning sharply veering bus commuters like a pendulum and having cool air conditioning system in a humid country like ours. The buses we have are sometimes shared with roaches, the air condition gives out “steam”, the seats are so smooth that one can slip out of their seat at bends, the standing room is enough for one person with anorexic, and while waiting for a bus the men can shave and ladies can do their make-ups (especially during peak hours).I would suggest that we should create another body for the transport system, to oversee the LTA and PTC and name it LATE (Land And Transport Entity). This body will ensure that the authorities concern will walk the talk. A failure to improve the system would cost the member of LTA & PTC, to loose their cars and take the public transport system for a full one year. Ultimately, it is deemed that there is no keen interest to make the transportation the best we have ever seen. In doing that people will be satisfied, maintenance cost will increase and revenue will decline. I only hope I am wrong.
THINK SINGAPOREANS SENT TO STRAITS TIMES...REJECTED TOO!
Thank you for writing to us. We do appreciate your making the effort. We receive 70 letters on average each day. Limited space means we can publish only about a dozen every weekday. This means having to make often-difficult editorial judgments on which letters to publish. We regret we are unable to publish your letter, and hope you will appreciate the constraints on space we face every day. We hope you will continue taking an interest in the Forum Page.
Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aizafor
Forum Editor
The Straits Times"
Nick Pedro
06/12/2006 12:53 PM
To:stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject:Forum
The Editor, FORUM,
Straits Times
I wish to submit the following,It is about time that we think Singaporeans first. There is always the element of patriotism in Singaporeans. There are several issues arising from employing foreigners. The end results most of those who have been given citizenship can easily return to their countries once again. We need to give Singaporeans key posts. For example in our soccer, hockey and table tennis teams although we have foreigners; we never did make a huge difference. Even if we win it is not of level ground. I would rather that we lose as Singaporeans and be proud that we tried our best. We need to expend these monies in sports for worthwhile use, which makes sense, for Singaporeans.There are families here that could not afford to bring their children to cinemas, Underwater World, Cable Car rides, Night Safari, etc, because they are too expensive. Why is there a need to enjoy these places when you cannot afford it, one could ask? One feels marginalized when their children could not afford to go to such places while working and slogging for thirty, forty years or so as Singaporeans. Should all households at least own a car? Why not, for families can bring their children for picnics and to places that they have never been before due to any transportation available to these places. There are many who have never actually traveled all over Singapore. The lower income families can also purchase three or five years old second hand cars at a very low price and tax free, instead of exporting them overseas. I feel that the old and young and handicapped must not be forgotten when the government plans the handouts to be given to cushion increases in price when GST is risen. The best would be not to penalize Singaporeans who own bigger flats. Everyone loves to see their children enjoy the spacious luxury of our homes for children to move about and have their own rooms. Everyone also wishes to come home to a large living room to relax, after a day’s work. This is basically the reason why we work, that is to own a home, have food and live comfortably. I hope one day the HDB architects would introduce more toilets/bathrooms into the flats so everyone can enjoy without rush a warm bath, in a large or an extended family. There should be more open spaces and fields for children to run about, for soccer players to kick about and old folks to enjoy the flora and fauna. We are living in a “closely knitted” environment. I believe we have the space to provide for each households landed property, if our population was like before. There is a need to realize the Singaporean’s dream, than only it would take the present government many more years into running our country. It would be therefore be appropriate if the government work on a per head basis in a family household than on 3, 4 or 5 rooms’ flats, in order to distribute part of the revenue from the increase. Many a time families with large number of children, parent as a sole bread winner, families with extended families are disadvantaged by this policy. In some case those owners of 3 rooms’ flat owns a car and a private apartment, with both husband and wife working with a monthly combine salary of eight thousand compared to a 5 room owner, whose salary is two thousand a month. Whose wife is unemployed and are with four children and it would not be a fair yardstick to who are the needy. It must be deeming to be fair, in terms of how much expenses a family has and at the same time it is pro family. We need to have satisfied citizens before we can actually realize the full potential of Singaporeans. I am really proud that a Singaporean actually swam across the English Channel. In this instance I shall be biased and add that it will be Singaporeans who take Singapore to greater heights. Majullah Singapura.
Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aizafor
Forum Editor
The Straits Times"
Nick Pedro
06/12/2006 12:53 PM
To:stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject:Forum
The Editor, FORUM,
Straits Times
I wish to submit the following,It is about time that we think Singaporeans first. There is always the element of patriotism in Singaporeans. There are several issues arising from employing foreigners. The end results most of those who have been given citizenship can easily return to their countries once again. We need to give Singaporeans key posts. For example in our soccer, hockey and table tennis teams although we have foreigners; we never did make a huge difference. Even if we win it is not of level ground. I would rather that we lose as Singaporeans and be proud that we tried our best. We need to expend these monies in sports for worthwhile use, which makes sense, for Singaporeans.There are families here that could not afford to bring their children to cinemas, Underwater World, Cable Car rides, Night Safari, etc, because they are too expensive. Why is there a need to enjoy these places when you cannot afford it, one could ask? One feels marginalized when their children could not afford to go to such places while working and slogging for thirty, forty years or so as Singaporeans. Should all households at least own a car? Why not, for families can bring their children for picnics and to places that they have never been before due to any transportation available to these places. There are many who have never actually traveled all over Singapore. The lower income families can also purchase three or five years old second hand cars at a very low price and tax free, instead of exporting them overseas. I feel that the old and young and handicapped must not be forgotten when the government plans the handouts to be given to cushion increases in price when GST is risen. The best would be not to penalize Singaporeans who own bigger flats. Everyone loves to see their children enjoy the spacious luxury of our homes for children to move about and have their own rooms. Everyone also wishes to come home to a large living room to relax, after a day’s work. This is basically the reason why we work, that is to own a home, have food and live comfortably. I hope one day the HDB architects would introduce more toilets/bathrooms into the flats so everyone can enjoy without rush a warm bath, in a large or an extended family. There should be more open spaces and fields for children to run about, for soccer players to kick about and old folks to enjoy the flora and fauna. We are living in a “closely knitted” environment. I believe we have the space to provide for each households landed property, if our population was like before. There is a need to realize the Singaporean’s dream, than only it would take the present government many more years into running our country. It would be therefore be appropriate if the government work on a per head basis in a family household than on 3, 4 or 5 rooms’ flats, in order to distribute part of the revenue from the increase. Many a time families with large number of children, parent as a sole bread winner, families with extended families are disadvantaged by this policy. In some case those owners of 3 rooms’ flat owns a car and a private apartment, with both husband and wife working with a monthly combine salary of eight thousand compared to a 5 room owner, whose salary is two thousand a month. Whose wife is unemployed and are with four children and it would not be a fair yardstick to who are the needy. It must be deeming to be fair, in terms of how much expenses a family has and at the same time it is pro family. We need to have satisfied citizens before we can actually realize the full potential of Singaporeans. I am really proud that a Singaporean actually swam across the English Channel. In this instance I shall be biased and add that it will be Singaporeans who take Singapore to greater heights. Majullah Singapura.
THINK SINGAPOREANS FIRST sent on 05 Dec 2006
Thank you for your contribution to our VOICES section, but I'm afraid we aren't able to use your letter.
Please however continue to send your views to TODAY. We try to use as many letters as possible, space permitting.
Once again, thank you for your interest in TODAY.
Best Regards,
Shanthi R.
MediaCorp Press Ltd, TODAY
Tel: 6236 4888
-----Original Message-----From: Nick Pedro [mailto:nickpdr@yahoo.com.sg]
Sent: 05 December 2006 12:52
To: NEWSSubject: VOICES
To The Editor, TODAY
VOICES
It is about time that we think Singaporeans first. There is always the element of patriotism in Singaporeans. There are several issues arising from employing foreigners. The end results most of those who have been given citizenship can easily return to their countries once again. We need to give Singaporeans key posts. For example in our soccer, hockey and table tennis teams although. we have foreigners, we never did make a huge difference. Even if we win it is not of level ground. I would rather that we lose as Singaporeans and be proud that we tried our best. We need to expend these monies in sports for worthwhile use, which makes sense, for Singaporeans.
There are families here that could not afford to bring their children to cinemas, Underwater World, Cable Car rides, Night Safari, etc, because they are too expensive. Why is there a need to enjoy these places when you cannot afford it? One feels marginalized when their children could not afford to go to such places while working and slogging for thirty, forty years as Singaporeans. Should all households at least own a car? So that they can bring their children for picnics and to places that they have never been before due to any transportation unavailable to these places. There are many who have never actually traveled all over Singapore . The lower income families can by second hand cars that are three or five years old for very low prices and tax, instead of exporting them overseas. I feel that the old and young and handicapped must not be forgotten when the government plans the handouts to be given to cushion increases in price when GST is risen. The best would be not to penalize Singaporeans who own bigger flats. Everyone loves to see their children enjoy the spacious luxury of our homes for children to move about and have their own rooms. Everyone also wishes to come have a large living room to relax, after a day’s work. This is basically the reason why we work to own a home, have food and live comfortably. I hope one day the HDB architects would introduce more toilets/bathrooms into the flats so everyone can enjoy without rush a warm bath, in a large or an extended family. There should be more open spaces and fields for children to run about, for soccer players to kick about and old folks to enjoy the flora and fauna. We are living in a “closely knitted” environment. I believe we have the space. However, we need It is a Singaporean’s dream. That should take the present government many more years into running our country.
It would be therefore be appropriate if the government work on a per head basis in a family household than on 3, 4 or 5 rooms’ flats, in order to distribute part of the revenue from the increase. Many a time families with large number of children, parent as a sole bread winner, families with extended families are disadvantaged by this policy. In some case those owners of 3 rooms’ flat owns a car and a private apartment, with both husband and wife working with a monthly combine salary of eight thousand compared to a 5 room owner, whose salary is two thousand a month. Whose wife is unemployed and are with four children and it would not be a fair yardstick to who are the needy. There are it needed to be fair, in terms of how much expenses a family has and at the same time pro family.
Regards
Please however continue to send your views to TODAY. We try to use as many letters as possible, space permitting.
Once again, thank you for your interest in TODAY.
Best Regards,
Shanthi R.
MediaCorp Press Ltd, TODAY
Tel: 6236 4888
-----Original Message-----From: Nick Pedro [mailto:nickpdr@yahoo.com.sg]
Sent: 05 December 2006 12:52
To: NEWSSubject: VOICES
To The Editor, TODAY
VOICES
It is about time that we think Singaporeans first. There is always the element of patriotism in Singaporeans. There are several issues arising from employing foreigners. The end results most of those who have been given citizenship can easily return to their countries once again. We need to give Singaporeans key posts. For example in our soccer, hockey and table tennis teams although. we have foreigners, we never did make a huge difference. Even if we win it is not of level ground. I would rather that we lose as Singaporeans and be proud that we tried our best. We need to expend these monies in sports for worthwhile use, which makes sense, for Singaporeans.
There are families here that could not afford to bring their children to cinemas, Underwater World, Cable Car rides, Night Safari, etc, because they are too expensive. Why is there a need to enjoy these places when you cannot afford it? One feels marginalized when their children could not afford to go to such places while working and slogging for thirty, forty years as Singaporeans. Should all households at least own a car? So that they can bring their children for picnics and to places that they have never been before due to any transportation unavailable to these places. There are many who have never actually traveled all over Singapore . The lower income families can by second hand cars that are three or five years old for very low prices and tax, instead of exporting them overseas. I feel that the old and young and handicapped must not be forgotten when the government plans the handouts to be given to cushion increases in price when GST is risen. The best would be not to penalize Singaporeans who own bigger flats. Everyone loves to see their children enjoy the spacious luxury of our homes for children to move about and have their own rooms. Everyone also wishes to come have a large living room to relax, after a day’s work. This is basically the reason why we work to own a home, have food and live comfortably. I hope one day the HDB architects would introduce more toilets/bathrooms into the flats so everyone can enjoy without rush a warm bath, in a large or an extended family. There should be more open spaces and fields for children to run about, for soccer players to kick about and old folks to enjoy the flora and fauna. We are living in a “closely knitted” environment. I believe we have the space. However, we need It is a Singaporean’s dream. That should take the present government many more years into running our country.
It would be therefore be appropriate if the government work on a per head basis in a family household than on 3, 4 or 5 rooms’ flats, in order to distribute part of the revenue from the increase. Many a time families with large number of children, parent as a sole bread winner, families with extended families are disadvantaged by this policy. In some case those owners of 3 rooms’ flat owns a car and a private apartment, with both husband and wife working with a monthly combine salary of eight thousand compared to a 5 room owner, whose salary is two thousand a month. Whose wife is unemployed and are with four children and it would not be a fair yardstick to who are the needy. There are it needed to be fair, in terms of how much expenses a family has and at the same time pro family.
Regards
Rejected by STRAITS TIMES..on CPF Issues again
Thank you for writing to us. We do appreciate your making the effort. We receive 70 letters on average each day. Limited space means we can publish only about a dozen every weekday. This means having to make often-difficult editorial judgments on which letters to publish. We regret we are unable to publish your letter, and hope you will appreciate the constraints on space we face every day. We hope you will continue taking an interest in the Forum Page.
Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aizafor
Forum Editor
The Straits Times"
Nick Pedro
16/11/2006 08:13 AM
To:stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject:FORUM
To : STRAITS TIMES, Forum
Attn: The Editor
I would like to give my feedback on the CPF issue following yesterdays’ issue in Voices by Soh Yu Seng. I am equally surprised that union organizations are agreeable to CPF being sustained as it is. Although this may affect a be a small percentage of the working force, they do not want to marginalize this portion of workers. Many of us have bought flats based on the 40 per cent CPF contributions and took loans for 25 years. Now we are short of contributions to cover the impending monthly installments.The employers pay only 13 per cent, whereas the employee’s contribution is at 20 per cent. I would also like to reiterate, unless we may have forgotten, the CPF is for sole to ensure we have enough funds to see us through and not for the purpose of buying flats. We end up using that bulk of the CPF for purchasing a house and having none minimal from the CPF for food, medical, transportation, bills in later years. I hope that the intention is not for us to sell our flats in order to weed out the financial woes. This will only be done on a last resort. Trust me this amount would diminish in a very short time, too and than what.I would seriously urge that we put a check with CPF board on the numbers of its members who are in arrears and have no or minimum contributions in their ordinary account be executed, in order to see the trend at this stage. We need to be represented and our plights heard.I only wish that the CPF Board could have invested our special account savings on insurance that will yield better revenue upon retirement.In view of the above I feel that there is a need to have the CPF reinstated to its original 50 or 40 per cent that we enjoyed previously in good times, when there is visible sign of growth. At least we can level again when there is a downfall.
Thank you and regards,
Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aizafor
Forum Editor
The Straits Times"
Nick Pedro
16/11/2006 08:13 AM
To:stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject:FORUM
To : STRAITS TIMES, Forum
Attn: The Editor
I would like to give my feedback on the CPF issue following yesterdays’ issue in Voices by Soh Yu Seng. I am equally surprised that union organizations are agreeable to CPF being sustained as it is. Although this may affect a be a small percentage of the working force, they do not want to marginalize this portion of workers. Many of us have bought flats based on the 40 per cent CPF contributions and took loans for 25 years. Now we are short of contributions to cover the impending monthly installments.The employers pay only 13 per cent, whereas the employee’s contribution is at 20 per cent. I would also like to reiterate, unless we may have forgotten, the CPF is for sole to ensure we have enough funds to see us through and not for the purpose of buying flats. We end up using that bulk of the CPF for purchasing a house and having none minimal from the CPF for food, medical, transportation, bills in later years. I hope that the intention is not for us to sell our flats in order to weed out the financial woes. This will only be done on a last resort. Trust me this amount would diminish in a very short time, too and than what.I would seriously urge that we put a check with CPF board on the numbers of its members who are in arrears and have no or minimum contributions in their ordinary account be executed, in order to see the trend at this stage. We need to be represented and our plights heard.I only wish that the CPF Board could have invested our special account savings on insurance that will yield better revenue upon retirement.In view of the above I feel that there is a need to have the CPF reinstated to its original 50 or 40 per cent that we enjoyed previously in good times, when there is visible sign of growth. At least we can level again when there is a downfall.
Thank you and regards,
HIGH DENTAL COSTS...sent on 15 Nov 2006
Thank you for your contribution to our VOICES section, but I'm afraid we aren't able to use your letter.
Please however continue to send your views to TODAY. We try to use as many letters as possible, space permitting.
Once again, thank you for your interest in TODAY.
Best Regards,
Shanthi
Editorial Assistant
MediaCorp Press Ltd
-----Original Message-----From: Nick Pedro [mailto:nickpdr@yahoo.com.sg]
Sent: 15 November 2006 10:37
To: NEWSSubject: VOICES
To the Editor, VOICES,
Dear madam/sir
The following is my submission,
I recently went to have my tooth extracted. I need a referral from the polyclinic in order to go to the National Dental Centre Pte Ltd, for a subsidised rate. I have pay to pay S$8.00 to the poly clinic and S$72 to the Dental Centre. All in all I paid about $80 for a tooth extraction. I thought this was expensive and went to the neighbourhood Dental Clinic at Queenstown. There I have to pay $37 for diagnosing and scaling. A fraction of my income goes to just to maintain my teeth in a healthy condition.
I find this very expensive. If there is an ardent need to ensure good dental records of the populace there is a need to reduce these costs. The least would be to allow the use of CPF to defray these costs. It will be especially taxing on the lower income and retired elderly to pay these amounts in cash..
The same would be for those with long or short sightedness. In order to have the National Eye Centre to examine your eyes, it would cost a bomb. The local optical shops assessments are not up to the standard. The cost of a pair of glasses is also exorbitant. I have to go to Singapore Polytechnic Optometry for a lower cost examination. However, you have to wait for weeks for an appointment. It is still worth the wait.
These may not may be a major medical treatment however, it cost as much., preferably eyes are checked six monthly and it is still an core medical essential of our body. I urge that we need to thoroughly look into reducing such costs starting from these two above for start.
Regards
Please however continue to send your views to TODAY. We try to use as many letters as possible, space permitting.
Once again, thank you for your interest in TODAY.
Best Regards,
Shanthi
Editorial Assistant
MediaCorp Press Ltd
-----Original Message-----From: Nick Pedro [mailto:nickpdr@yahoo.com.sg]
Sent: 15 November 2006 10:37
To: NEWSSubject: VOICES
To the Editor, VOICES,
Dear madam/sir
The following is my submission,
I recently went to have my tooth extracted. I need a referral from the polyclinic in order to go to the National Dental Centre Pte Ltd, for a subsidised rate. I have pay to pay S$8.00 to the poly clinic and S$72 to the Dental Centre. All in all I paid about $80 for a tooth extraction. I thought this was expensive and went to the neighbourhood Dental Clinic at Queenstown. There I have to pay $37 for diagnosing and scaling. A fraction of my income goes to just to maintain my teeth in a healthy condition.
I find this very expensive. If there is an ardent need to ensure good dental records of the populace there is a need to reduce these costs. The least would be to allow the use of CPF to defray these costs. It will be especially taxing on the lower income and retired elderly to pay these amounts in cash..
The same would be for those with long or short sightedness. In order to have the National Eye Centre to examine your eyes, it would cost a bomb. The local optical shops assessments are not up to the standard. The cost of a pair of glasses is also exorbitant. I have to go to Singapore Polytechnic Optometry for a lower cost examination. However, you have to wait for weeks for an appointment. It is still worth the wait.
These may not may be a major medical treatment however, it cost as much., preferably eyes are checked six monthly and it is still an core medical essential of our body. I urge that we need to thoroughly look into reducing such costs starting from these two above for start.
Regards
ANOTHER VERSION OF THE CPF ISSUE...REJECTED, SENT ON 14 Nov 2006
Thank you for your contribution to our VOICES section, but I'm afraid we aren't able to use your letter.
Please however continue to send your views to TODAY. We try to use as many letters as possible, space permitting.
Once again, thank you for your interest in TODAY.
Best Regards,
Shanthi
Editorial Assistant
MediaCorp Press Ltd
-----Original Message-----From: Nick Pedro [mailto:nickpdr@yahoo.com.sg]Sent: 14 November 2006 13:06
To: NEWS
Subject: VOICES - CPF issue
To : TODAY
Attn: The Editor
I would like to give my feedback on the CPF issue following yesterdays’ issue in Voices by Soh Yu Seng. I am equally surprised that union organizations are agreeable to CPF being sustained as it is. Although this may affect a be a small percentage of the working force, they do not want to marginalize this portion of workers. Many of us have bought flats based on the 40 per cent CPF contributions and took loans for 25 years. Now we are short of contributions to cover the impending monthly installments.
The employers pay only 13 per cent, whereas the employee’s contribution is at 20 per cent.
I would also like to reiterate, unless we may have forgotten, the CPF is for sole to ensure we have enough funds to see us through and not for the purpose of buying flats. We end up using that bulk of the CPF for purchasing a house and having none minimal from the CPF for food, medical, transportation, bills in later years. I hope that the intention is not for us to sell our flats in order to weed out the financial woes. This will only be done on a last resort. Trust me this amount would diminish in a very short time, too and than what.
I would seriously urge that we put a check with CPF board on the numbers of its members who are in arrears and have no or minimum contributions in their ordinary account be executed, in order to see the trend at this stage. We need to be represented and our plights heard.
I only wish that the CPF Board could have invested our special account savings on insurance that will yield better revenue upon retirement.
In view of the above I feel that there is a need to have the CPF reinstated to its original 50 or 40 per cent that we enjoyed previously in good times, when there is visible sign of growth. At least we can level again when there is a downfall.
Please however continue to send your views to TODAY. We try to use as many letters as possible, space permitting.
Once again, thank you for your interest in TODAY.
Best Regards,
Shanthi
Editorial Assistant
MediaCorp Press Ltd
-----Original Message-----From: Nick Pedro [mailto:nickpdr@yahoo.com.sg]Sent: 14 November 2006 13:06
To: NEWS
Subject: VOICES - CPF issue
To : TODAY
Attn: The Editor
I would like to give my feedback on the CPF issue following yesterdays’ issue in Voices by Soh Yu Seng. I am equally surprised that union organizations are agreeable to CPF being sustained as it is. Although this may affect a be a small percentage of the working force, they do not want to marginalize this portion of workers. Many of us have bought flats based on the 40 per cent CPF contributions and took loans for 25 years. Now we are short of contributions to cover the impending monthly installments.
The employers pay only 13 per cent, whereas the employee’s contribution is at 20 per cent.
I would also like to reiterate, unless we may have forgotten, the CPF is for sole to ensure we have enough funds to see us through and not for the purpose of buying flats. We end up using that bulk of the CPF for purchasing a house and having none minimal from the CPF for food, medical, transportation, bills in later years. I hope that the intention is not for us to sell our flats in order to weed out the financial woes. This will only be done on a last resort. Trust me this amount would diminish in a very short time, too and than what.
I would seriously urge that we put a check with CPF board on the numbers of its members who are in arrears and have no or minimum contributions in their ordinary account be executed, in order to see the trend at this stage. We need to be represented and our plights heard.
I only wish that the CPF Board could have invested our special account savings on insurance that will yield better revenue upon retirement.
In view of the above I feel that there is a need to have the CPF reinstated to its original 50 or 40 per cent that we enjoyed previously in good times, when there is visible sign of growth. At least we can level again when there is a downfall.
REJECTED BY STRAITS TIMES...SAME ISSUE ON CPF
Thank you for writing to us. We do appreciate your making the effort. We receive 70 letters on average each day. Limited space means we can publish only about a dozen every weekday. This means having to make often-difficult editorial judgments on which letters to publish. We regret we are unable to publish your letter, and hope you will appreciate the constraints on space we face every day. We hope you will continue taking an interest in the Forum Page.
Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aizafor
Forum Editor
The Straits Times"
Nick Pedro
07/11/2006 10:37 AM
To: stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject
Forum
To The Editor,
Straits Times
Forum,
Dear madam/sir,
One of such situation is our CPF contributions. It seems that the employer’s contribution of thirteen per cent and the employee’s contribution of eighteen per cent. I know that the contribution was at twenty-five per cent each. The crux of the matter is that, many of us have purchased homes based on previous contribution rates, which was higher than the present one. This has affected the loan repayment some how. Will the CPF contribution be restored and to how much?Secondly, I note that the interest rate for the savings account has dwindled to a less than 1 per cent rate, which is 0.25 per cent. Do the interest rates for savings account rise if there is a growth? How long will it take to see an upswing in savings interest rates?
Best regards,
Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aizafor
Forum Editor
The Straits Times"
Nick Pedro
07/11/2006 10:37 AM
To: stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject
Forum
To The Editor,
Straits Times
Forum,
Dear madam/sir,
One of such situation is our CPF contributions. It seems that the employer’s contribution of thirteen per cent and the employee’s contribution of eighteen per cent. I know that the contribution was at twenty-five per cent each. The crux of the matter is that, many of us have purchased homes based on previous contribution rates, which was higher than the present one. This has affected the loan repayment some how. Will the CPF contribution be restored and to how much?Secondly, I note that the interest rate for the savings account has dwindled to a less than 1 per cent rate, which is 0.25 per cent. Do the interest rates for savings account rise if there is a growth? How long will it take to see an upswing in savings interest rates?
Best regards,
REJECTED..CPF CONTRIBUTIONS
Thank you for your contribution to our VOICES section, but I'm afraid we aren't able to use your letter.
Please however continue to send your views to TODAY. We try to use as many letters as possible, space permitting.
Once again, thank you for your interest in TODAY.
Best Regards,
Shanthi
-----Original Message-----From: Nick Pedro [mailto:nickpdr@yahoo.com.sg]Sent: 06 November 2006 15:13To: NEWSSubject: VOICES
To The Editor, TODAY,
Dear madam/sir,
One of such situation is our CPF contributions. It seems that the employer’s contribution of thirteen per cent and the employee’s contribution of eighteen per cent. I know that the contribution was at twenty-five per cent each. The crux of the matter is that, many of us have purchased homes based on previous contribution rates, which was higher than the present one. This has affected the loan repayment some how. Will the CPF contribution be restored and to how much?
Secondly, I note that the interest rate for the savings account has dwindled to a less than 1 per cent rate, which is 0.25 per cent. Do the interest rates for savings account rise if there is a growth? How long will it take to see an upswing in savings interest rates?
Best regards,
Please however continue to send your views to TODAY. We try to use as many letters as possible, space permitting.
Once again, thank you for your interest in TODAY.
Best Regards,
Shanthi
-----Original Message-----From: Nick Pedro [mailto:nickpdr@yahoo.com.sg]Sent: 06 November 2006 15:13To: NEWSSubject: VOICES
To The Editor, TODAY,
Dear madam/sir,
One of such situation is our CPF contributions. It seems that the employer’s contribution of thirteen per cent and the employee’s contribution of eighteen per cent. I know that the contribution was at twenty-five per cent each. The crux of the matter is that, many of us have purchased homes based on previous contribution rates, which was higher than the present one. This has affected the loan repayment some how. Will the CPF contribution be restored and to how much?
Secondly, I note that the interest rate for the savings account has dwindled to a less than 1 per cent rate, which is 0.25 per cent. Do the interest rates for savings account rise if there is a growth? How long will it take to see an upswing in savings interest rates?
Best regards,
SEXUALITY
Thank you for writing to us. We do appreciate your making the effort. We receive 70 letters on average each day. Limited space means we can publish only about a dozen every weekday. This means having to make often-difficult editorial judgments on which letters to publish. We regret we are unable to publish your letter this time, and hope you will appreciate the constraints on space we face every day. We hope you will continue taking an interest in the Forum Page.
Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aizafor
Forum Editor
The Straits Times"
Nick Pedro
07/02/2006 04:42 PM
To:stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject:SEXUALITY
To The Forum,
I refer to the letter by Dr Gabriel Oon Cheong Jin, on “Sexuality workshop an eye-opener for teens” yesterday. The way I read the letter it seems that this issue may have traumatized your good self. This is especially so when you generalized “sexually active young” and that “like in my time, masturbation and homosexuality behaviour were not rare in the schools”. I totally agree with sending the messages on pre-marital sex, use of contraception, abortions, stem cell research, hazards in smoking, consumption of drugs, “gangsterism” and suicidal tendencies be introduced to upper secondary and tertiary and even to universities. However, the degree and manner in which Family Life Society need to introduce need to be “milder” and superficial. Such lessons cannot be taught with both genders present. Simple messages “Do not smoke, it is hazardous to health” is enough a message. You may note that it is always easy to bring the horse to the water but you cannot force it to drink the water. Therefore how detailed and descriptive the messages can be it cannot be hammered in if the children are not willing to listen. We also must be aware that this is not for all children. However, we need to identify the children that may need this “lecture”. I think this is a bigger problem and need professionals and social workers and individual counseling. Can we afford the time and money? Any way, these teenagers are aware of these if they are able to learn and understand grammar, living organisms and algebra. I am sure you do not have to be a young medical student to know about sexual diseases. Teenagers also knows that plastic tears and shears therefore the best contraceptive is “refrain” for teenagers and singles and “spouse” for married couple.Actually, I should have started with, “Why the urgency to learn about sexuality?” Can someone enlighten me? Is there a crisis? Is there any statistics to show problems with teenagers or adults on sexuality? Why the fuss, suddenly?Basically, if there is ever such a problem, we have become no different than western countries. There they have accepted it as a norm. Here we are steadfast in our cultural and traditional values. As we learn languages as in mother tongue, these values must be subtly inculcated. The most “primal” need of children is parental love. Parents have the first responsibility and should not shove it and blame on society or education should anything befall on their children. We were all children once and we need to understand our children from that standpoint. We always “disown” the children when we call them “teenagers”. They are still our children all the same. Most of the parents love the pseudonym “independent”. This is a very dangerous word in the sense you are telling the child indirectly “I do not care”. I feel that if you would give love to the child, he or she will reciprocate this love. Nowadays the parents have very little time for their children. Both of them are working and when they are at home the children are out for tuition or with friends. I can easily say the children would therefore acquire 90% of their knowledge from friends than from parents. If they find good friends, everything is fair and well, but what if they have friends that are not!
Do you Yahoo!?New and Improved Yahoo! Mail - 1GB free storage!
Yours sincerely
Ms Noor Aizafor
Forum Editor
The Straits Times"
Nick Pedro
07/02/2006 04:42 PM
To:stforum@sph.com.sg
Subject:SEXUALITY
To The Forum,
I refer to the letter by Dr Gabriel Oon Cheong Jin, on “Sexuality workshop an eye-opener for teens” yesterday. The way I read the letter it seems that this issue may have traumatized your good self. This is especially so when you generalized “sexually active young” and that “like in my time, masturbation and homosexuality behaviour were not rare in the schools”. I totally agree with sending the messages on pre-marital sex, use of contraception, abortions, stem cell research, hazards in smoking, consumption of drugs, “gangsterism” and suicidal tendencies be introduced to upper secondary and tertiary and even to universities. However, the degree and manner in which Family Life Society need to introduce need to be “milder” and superficial. Such lessons cannot be taught with both genders present. Simple messages “Do not smoke, it is hazardous to health” is enough a message. You may note that it is always easy to bring the horse to the water but you cannot force it to drink the water. Therefore how detailed and descriptive the messages can be it cannot be hammered in if the children are not willing to listen. We also must be aware that this is not for all children. However, we need to identify the children that may need this “lecture”. I think this is a bigger problem and need professionals and social workers and individual counseling. Can we afford the time and money? Any way, these teenagers are aware of these if they are able to learn and understand grammar, living organisms and algebra. I am sure you do not have to be a young medical student to know about sexual diseases. Teenagers also knows that plastic tears and shears therefore the best contraceptive is “refrain” for teenagers and singles and “spouse” for married couple.Actually, I should have started with, “Why the urgency to learn about sexuality?” Can someone enlighten me? Is there a crisis? Is there any statistics to show problems with teenagers or adults on sexuality? Why the fuss, suddenly?Basically, if there is ever such a problem, we have become no different than western countries. There they have accepted it as a norm. Here we are steadfast in our cultural and traditional values. As we learn languages as in mother tongue, these values must be subtly inculcated. The most “primal” need of children is parental love. Parents have the first responsibility and should not shove it and blame on society or education should anything befall on their children. We were all children once and we need to understand our children from that standpoint. We always “disown” the children when we call them “teenagers”. They are still our children all the same. Most of the parents love the pseudonym “independent”. This is a very dangerous word in the sense you are telling the child indirectly “I do not care”. I feel that if you would give love to the child, he or she will reciprocate this love. Nowadays the parents have very little time for their children. Both of them are working and when they are at home the children are out for tuition or with friends. I can easily say the children would therefore acquire 90% of their knowledge from friends than from parents. If they find good friends, everything is fair and well, but what if they have friends that are not!
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