Selected Writings of Ho Kah Leong
Who is Responsible?
In my view, to formulate a unique Singapore culture, the social environment and its ethical values should be based on the best traditional cultural values of all races in Singapore. However, in the process, we cannot totally disregard external culture, in particular the western culture. Before adopting them, one must filter through them. We must only absorb the best and discard the worst. But the question is: who is going to undertake this responsibility? It is not an easy task to decide what is to be absorbed and what is to be discarded.
In the initial stage of our nation-building, much emphasis was placed on economic expansion. Now that we have achieved a firm base in economics, we should put some effort to develop culture as well. The ministry of culture, the various cultural and educational organisations in our public should be in the forefront of this sacred task. In the process of nation-building, placing over-emphasis on economic expansion but neglecting cultural works will result in turning a society into one where everybody is busy pursuing making more money. Everybody wants to enjoy life but does not want to work hard. Such a society is a fragile one and will not be able to withstand drastic changes. It is regrettable that there are signs of this happening within our society. If we do not rectify the situation immediately, our society will rot eventually.
On the auspicious occasion of commemorating the 9th National Day, let us all wish our Republic progress and prosperity. Thank you!
The above are excerpts from a speech by Dr Ho Kah Leong at the 9th National Day Celebrations held by Jurong Community on 17 August, 1974.
For the full speech please refer to page 229 - page 230 of the publication.
Published in 2019 by Candid Creation Publishing LLP
