The Straits Times Blogs » ST team @ National Day Rally 2009

LIVE: National Day Rally 09 from 8pm

ST team @ National Day Rally 2009 — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 13:43:00 +0000

By Joanne Lee, Online Editor at ST Headquarters

Melissa Pang, Online Content Producer at ST Headquarters
Tessa Wong, News Reporter at ST Headquarters
Goh Chin Lian, Political Correspondent at NUS University Cultural Centre
Kor Kian Beng, Political Correspondent at NUS University Cultural Centre

Continued from ST's live blog from 6pm.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 8:02pm): Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong is now continuing this year's National Day Rally after a half-hour break with his English speech - pointing out that this year is Singapore's 50th anniversary of self-government.

He'll be touching on the following topics, in this order: The Economy, healthcare, social harmony and shaping Singapore together.

Tessa (ST newsroom, 8:04pm): PM Lee returned to the stage bearing snazzy graphics on multimedia screens. The prominence of multimedia and new media in this year's speech could be seen as a follow-up to last year's speech where he emphasised on using such mediums in engaging with Singaporeans.

Meanwhile tweets bearing the #ndrsg hashtag are dramatically spiking as more people tune in for the English speech. There's now an average of 10 tweets per minute. Many are commenting on the much improved standard of the multimedia, such as the stylish font, logos and graphics.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 8:05pm): Kicking off on the topic of the economy, PM Lee said he had inserted a warning about the current economic crisis in his Rally speech two years ago.

Things turned out much worse than expected, but now the eye of the storm has passed. First half GDP shrinkage was 6.5 per cent but not as bad as feared. The government, he says, is looking ahead cautiously to the rest of the year.

remember, in his National Day Message last Saturday, he had forecast a shrinkage of GDP this year between 4 and 6 per cent. Analysts, however, generally agree that the numbers won't be so big and will likely come in at between 1 and 2 per cent.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 8:07pm): Giving his assessment on how the Singapore economy has responded to the stimulus efforts, or the Resilience Package, announced in January, he says it's worked. There's no need for a new prescription now and the government will review and decide what to do for next year.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 8:12pm): Flashing photos of Star Wars' Yoda on the big screens, PM Lee just spoke about how Singapore is growing entirely new economic activities - including interactive digital media. (The Yoda was to illustrate how leading players like America's Lucasfilm, the Star Wars creator's company, have established significant operations here.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 8:14pm): Turning to multinational companies (MNCs), he says the Economic Development Board is engaging them in strategic dialogue on five- to 10-year plans to locate their headquarters and high-end manufacturing here to service the region.

A key strength, he emphasised, is Singapore's brand name. This will benefit local companies when they venture overseas and give foreign companies confidence to invest here. He said Singapore should never compromise or lose this advantage.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 8:16pm): Talking about preparing the workforce for the new world now, PM Lee said the government will establish two new CET campuses: an East campus in Paya Lebar Central and a West campus in Jurong Lake District. These are to be one-stop shops for training and retraining of workers and job-matching services. The Ministry of Manpower is to announce more details later.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 8:18pm): Noting that the economic recession was a deep trough, PM Lee says we can we confident of the future because of the way Singapore has coped with the downturn.

By the time the economy turns around for sure, new strategies, investments and workers' upgrading efforts will have taken effect so Singapore will be all set to pick up strongly again.

Tessa (ST newsroom, 8:23pm): PM Lee turns his attention to healthcare, saying that while Singaporeans know we have good doctors and hospitals, the worry is whether they can afford it when they grow old and retire. He goes on to talk about the 3Ms that underpin our healthcare system - MediSave, MediShield and MediFund.

Healthcare issues, incidentally, is a hot topic now as Obama strives to reform the healthcare industry in the United States. Singapore, as a socialist-democracy, has modelled its system more on the British NHS.

Tessa (ST newsroom, 8:26pm): "We need to structure the whole system properly, in order to cater to the needs of the elderly." PM Lee goes into his plan for what he calls "integrated, step-down care".

The key step would be to link up acute hospitals and community hospitals, where stabilised patients would be transferred from the big hospitals like Tan Tock Seng to smaller hospitals like Ren Ci to receive what he calls "slow medicine".

"This would be the best of both worlds," he said.

Tessa (ST newsroom, 8:30pm): PM Lee gives examples of RenCi and Tan Tock Seng hospital collaborating, saying that the two hospitals will soon be connected by a bridge. He also gave examples of other tie-ups, adding that they will build "sister" community hospitals next to Khoo Teck Puat hospital, and Jurong General Hospital. Doctors and patients mus think about it as a whole system, he urges.

Tessa (ST newsroom, 8:34pm): Singaporeans, stay healthy, urges PM Lee who adds that the best way to keep health costs down is to maintain healthy lifestyles.

He lauds a wellness programme that Lim Boon Heng came up with, which is piloting in 12 constituencies and due to be expanded across the island eventually. This programme is involves medical check-ups, regular exercise and social networking.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 8:35pm): And the audience breaks into a round of applause as PM Lee thanks medical professionals for taking care of the population during the H1N1 emergency. despite being under stress, he said they did not shirk their responsibilities.

One neurosurgeon even performed brain surgery under full personal, preventative equipment. Singapore, PM Lee said, owes these professionals a debt of gratitude.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 8:37pm): Moving into the third topic now - harmony, particularly racial and religious harmony.

The "most visceral and dangerous" fault line is race and religion, said PM Lee. Even though Singapore is in a good position in maintaining multi-racial and multi-religious harmony, he said we still need to talk about the topic sensitively but honestly, to assess progress, recognise trends and remind ourselves we must do better.

Tessa (ST newsroom, 8:41pm): He emphasised the importance of religion in people's lives, using the anecdote of a constituent he had met who had turned over a new leaf following his conversion to Christianity.

The Grand Mufti of Syria also shared with him a parable about a mother who had four children: a Muslim, a Christian, a Jew and a Buddhist. The mother was asked who she would prefer; her answer was that she would not choose one over the other, but would love the one who cared for the other siblings the most.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 8:44pm): Citing an episode of "Lonely Planet Six Degrees" which featured a Malay wedding being held in a Singapore HDB void deck next to a Chinese funeral nearby, he said sometimes things go awry.

As mentioned in his Chinese speech earlier, there was indeed such a case brought before the MP for mediation. The Malay family, however, gave way graciously to the grieving Chinese family, even though they had first claim.

Apparently such cases are very rare - 1 in 300 funerals, Singapore keeps statistics on everything he quipped - but PM Lee warned that just one case that escalates into conflict would be "bad".

Kian Beng (UCC, 8:45pm): During the break, when I spoke to MPs, they said PM's anecdote highlighted the need for mutual understanding and constant consultation between sporeans ofdifferent race and religions.

Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC MP Hri Kumar said he had a similar example which was resolved amicably by his grassroots leaders. "it's a difficult issue. It requires the different groups to give and take. But can we expect all groups to do that always?That's the challengethat spore faces constantly."

Tessa (ST newsroom, 8:48pm): From this anecdote, PM Lee concluded: "We need good sense and tolerance by all sides, and a willingness to give and take."

Rising religiosity is a trend all over the world. He cites the United States as a key example, where a wave of revival of megachurches and tele-evangelism which is harnessing new media. US politics are strongly influenced by religion, with the Christian right a major force in the Republican party.

Tessa (ST newsroom, 8:52pm): There is an intense revival of Islamic faith worldwide as well, says PM Lee, who points to Malaysia and Indonesia - as places where this is happening.

One wonders if this means Singapore faces a bigger challenge in maintaining its secularity as its bigger neighbours experience a stronger sense of a global "umma", or Muslim community.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 8:54pm): Religious is a positive force in human societies, says PM Lee, providing spiritual strength and a sense of purpose in our fast-changing world. But stronger religious fervour needs to be checked in our multi-religious society.

What we risked otherwise is - and this is how PM Lee has broken it down - aggresive proselytisation, intolerance and exclusiveness.

Such dangers have seen a recent case of a couple who surreptitously distributed Christian tracts offensive to other faiths. They were charged and sentenced to eight weeks imprisonment. Less extreme cases include complaints about groups trying to convert very ill patients in hospitals.

There have also been cases in which children who fail to "convert" their parents have declined to fulfil their parents' funerel rites and even stayed away from funerals - what PM Lee calls the "ultimate unfilial act".

Tessa (ST newsroom, 8:57pm): He cautioned against subtler expressions of intolerance, such as preferring not to share meals with others, or disapproving of yoga because they supposedly contain religious elements. Here he gives an example in Malaysia where the government had to quash rumours that yoga is not halal.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 9:00pm): PM Lee is now sketching out some basic rules to keep religious harmony in Singapore.

First, all groups must exercise tolerance and restraint. Many faiths share the island, and Singaporeans cannot expect to behave as dominant religious groups in countries like the US or Muslim countries. "Live and let live" has to apply here.

Secondly, religion must stay separate from politics. We cannot invoke religious arguments in the political arena as such arguments would only provoke other religious groups to "push back". This is why, he explained, the Peoples Action Party tells its members not to mobilise members of their religious groups to campaign for them.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 9:03pm): Thirdly, the government must remain secular: to uphold moral values, hold the ring for all groups, and ensure all religions can be practised freely.

Tessa (ST newsroom, 9:04pm): PM Lee asks rhetorically, does this mean religious groups cannot have any views on national issues? "Obviously not," he answers, giving examples of how such groups have propagated their teachings on social issues and moral questions such as the integrated resorts, the human organ transplant act, and S377A."

"Public debate cannot be on whose religion is right and whose religion is wrong," he says, but on secular considerations of public interest.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 9:06pm): Fourth, PM Lee emphasised the preservation of common space that all Singaporeans share - including sharing meals, schools and workplaces together.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 9:10pm): Turning to the Aware leadership tussle a few months ago, PM Lee said the Government was not concerned who controlled Aware or its policies (since the Government's views on things like sexuality education in schools are clear).

What the Government was alarmed about was that it was an attempt by a religiously-motivated group to take over a non-governmental organisation it disapproved of and impose their own agenda. What the Government was afraid of was the push back from other groups with opposing views - which indeed happened vocally and stridently.

Tessa (ST newsroom, 9:14pm): His verdict: "This was hardly the way to conduct a mature public discussion of issues."

He then thanked the National Council of Churches of Singapore and the Catholic Archbishop for issuing statements that gave a responsible stand on the issue.

He ends things off by acknowledging that it's been a heavy going topic for this year's Rally.

"Usually it's about making babies or bonuses. Well, no bonuses tonight," he says wryly.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 9:18pm): Turning to the topic of Singapore's future now, PM Lee is going through a photo slideshow now of Old Singapore. We'll try to bring you those photos in a while.

Tessa (ST newsroom, 9:21pm): He's now showing a photo of Boat Quay before its major clean-up, then flashes a picture of the area now, specifically the start of it where the Penny Black pub is. "This must be taken in the early evening, people look sober," he remarks, to some laughter.

Then... Robertson Quay in the 1970s, source: URA

Now... Boat Quay 2009, source: URA

Tessa (ST newsroom, 9:23pm): He's showing pictures of Toa Payoh now, before it became a housing estate. I wonder what used to be on the site of the Singapore Press Holdings building!

Toa Payoh in the late 1960s, source: URA

Tessa (ST newsroom, 9:24pm): In what must be a highlight of the slideshow, PM Lee shows photos of Ivan Kang of Yishun.

The first shows him half-naked trying to start a fire to cook food using an odd looking trumpet - the next shows him about 20 years on, and bending over his shiny stovetop. And still half-naked.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 9:25pm): He's now showing a picture of toilets. A toddler bathing out of a century egg barrel draws laughter from the audience. PM Lee says he used to use one too.

Showing a current upgraded HDB toilet with its showers and toilet pedestals, it is quite a change, he says, "toddler not included" to more audience laughter.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 9:29pm): Turning to the change in the Singapore Armed Forces, he just juxtaposed a photo of old artillery solders carrying a 120mm mortar - all they can carry - with a photo of a new soldier wearing new pixellated camouflaged gear which " you shouldn't be able to see". This draws more laughter from the audience.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 9:33pm): On shaping Singapore, he stressed that the government is continuing to work hard at renewing the city to build Singapore's future.

Giving an update, not just on updating the hardware, but creating opportunities, memories and heartware, he starts with a look at educational institutions. A first-class education system continues to be a goal and huge investments have been made at all levels, including school facilities like media production studios and indoor sports halls. Other than schools, modern libraries are also being built in town centres.

Beacon Primary School Media Production Club, source: URA

Source: Bukit Panjang Government High School

Republic Polytechnic, source: URA

Bishan Community Library, source: Look Architects

Tessa (ST newsroom, 9:34pm): Other goals are convenient public transport, and clean public spaces for Singaporeans to enjoy parks, gardens, reservoirs and canals.

Orchard Central and buskers on the strip are also singled out as examples of how our city centre is becoming more vibrant.

Orchard Central, source: URA

Orchard Pedestrian Mall, buskers from Rhythm de Pasion, source: URA

Kolam Ayer ABC Waterfront, source: PUB

Forest Walk at Southern Ridges, source: URA

Tessa (ST newsroom, 9:39pm): Now the fun bit: A virtual fly-by of the upcoming Marina Bay landscape, set to uplifting tinkly music. PM Lee is now talking the audience through a video showing close-ups of the Gardens by the Bay, the Sky Park on top of the integrated resort.

A zoom-in of lots of little people inexplicably running up and down the double helix bridge, and then we're off to the mist walk in front of the IR.

Then a green lung on the other side before sliding across Clifford Pier. "The Merlion is stilll there, the Durian, and the promenade where you can see the sunset," says PM Lee, playing Singapore guide.

The clip ends, the audience claps. I feel like I've just played the Singapore version of The Sims.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 9:40pm): Drawing to the close of his speech now, PM Lee just said 1959 was a moment of great change for Singapore when it gained self-government. In another 50 years, he added, Singapore will be equally unimaginable in its growth.

The key is to "stay united through rain or shine".

Joanne (ST newsroom, 9:42pm): Turning to last Sunday's National Day Parade, he singled out the 8:22pm pledge which saw Singaporeans from all walks of life, all over the island and overseas, reciting the pledge together.

He concluded his speech saying: "As a "one united nation" we can continue to upgrade and rebuild our city, and make this place our home, our future, our Singapore."

On that note, the audience bursts into applause for Singapore's waving Prime Minister. Thank you for joining us live here on ST.com and do leave your comments here on how you felt about the speech.

Read The Straits Times tomorrow for ground reactions to the National Day Rally speech and get the at our special microsite here:

LIVE: National Day Rally 09 from 6pm

ST team @ National Day Rally 2009 — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 11:31:00 +0000

By Joanne Lee, Online Editor at ST Headquarters
Melissa Pang, Online Content Producer at ST Headquarters
Tessa Wong, News Reporter at ST Headquarters
Goh Chin Lian, Political Correspondent at NUS University Cultural Centre
Kor Kian Beng, Political Correspondent at NUS University Cultural Centre

JOANNE (ST HQ, 6pm): IT'S the National Day Rally tonight. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will be delivering his 6th state-of-the-nation address since being sworn-in as Singapore's 3rd prime minister in 2004.

He will deliver his speech in Malay and Mandarin first at 6.45pm, and then in English at 8pm.

The Straits Times team will blog updates LIVE from the National Day Rally, both on the ground and from the ST headquarters. Join us as we feed you with the mood over at the UCC and the main newspoints from PM Lee's speech. Stay tuned!

(Read ST's curtain-raiser here and Joanne's pre-Rally blog here.)

Kiang Beng (UCC, 6:14pm): The cheerful music has begun from a small band but the mood is one of cautious optimism at the National University of Singapore's University Cultural Centre as ministers, MPs and grassroots leaders start arriving for the National Day Rally. They include Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong and ministers Mah Bow Tan, Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Abdullah Tarmugi.

Grassroots leaders say they hope to get some assurances from PM Lee about the economy and what the government plans to do to ensure job security for Singaporeans.

Mr Goh Peng Hong, vice-chair of the Citizens Consultative Committee (CCC) in Sembawang ward, told me his feedback with residents showed that they are looking for some strategies to tackle the downturn and beyond.

Kian Beng (UCC, 6:20pm): Mr Koh Tong Seng, chairman of Changi Simei CCC, says he is looking forward to PM Lee speak about race and religious harmony given the recession. The 54-year-old told me: "When the economy is not doing well, some groups of the society might be lagging behind and there might be resentment towards other groups. I hope PM will assure Singaporeans that there are sufficient jobs for them and also help if we need it."

Chin Lian (UCC, 6:29pm): Methodist bishop Robert Solomon expects the Prime Minister to talk about the place of religion in the public square - not just between those who are religious, but also between the religious and those who are secular. The audience is entering the auditorium now, as MPs and ministers arrive and mingle.

Tessa (ST newsroom, 6:42pm): Meanwhile in the newsroom, a team of about 15 reporters, correspondents and editors are busy scarfing down an early dinner while gearing up for the big speech.

This year PM Lee is expected to speak on the economy, Singapore's transformation in the past 50 years, health care, and racial and religious harmony. The last one is a particularly prickly issue, given recent events such as the Aware leadership saga as well as the ongoing immigration debate. It will be well worth paying close attention to what PM Lee says.

Kian Beng (UCC, 6:43pm): Ms Indranee Rajah, MP for Tanjong Pagar GRC, says she welcomes PM's focus on racial and religious harmony, which she addes could be triggered by the Aware episode a few months ago.

She said healthcare is also a timely issue especially in a recession when Singaporeans are more concerned abt the impact of falling ill. MM Lee Kuan Yew and all ministers are now seated in the auditorium waiting for PM Lee to speak in Malay and Mandarin.

Opposition MP Chiam See Tong and his wife are here too.

Joanne (ST newsroom, 6:49pm): During his short preamble, he says he's going to use more technology during his speech this year, and jokes that the big onstage screens will not, however, be showing tonight's football match Manchester United and Birmingham - much to the amusement of the audience.

Tessa (ST newsroom, 6:50pm): PM Lee kicks things off talking about how they have decided to harness new technology and new media to reach out to more Singaporeans. Platforms favoured by young people such as blogs, Facebook and Twitter are being used, as well as more use of multimedia.

My two cents worth as a young Singaporean: It's high time the Government started using such mediums; it's already somewhat behind the curve behind other developed countries, notably the United States, in adopting new media to engage citizens (Barack Obama, for instance, has had a Twitter account since 2007). I'm looking forward to tracking the discussion on Twitter with the hashtag #ndrsg.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 6:50pm): He's started with his Malay speech, opening with an observation that Sinapore has come a long way since self-government 50 years ago and there is much to rejoice over despite the economic downturn.

PM Lee is speaking at the University Cultural Centre, National University of Singapore. This is the ninth time that Singapore's most important political speech of the year is being delivered at the UCC and there are more than 1,600 in the audience tonight.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 6:51pm): Citing Malay/Muslim organisations Mendaki and Muis as examples, PM Lee says that Malays play an integral part in the Singapore story. Led by Malay MPs and community leaders, the community has successfully adapted to the globalised world.

Education has been key to this success. Malay parents understand the importance of good qualifications for a better future, which has resulted in an improvement in the Malay educational performance. But there remain some who still need to do better in school. Mr Lee is urging these students to take advantage of the many opportunities opening up for Singapore.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 6:54pm): Historically, he says we have overcome adversity many times before. We will overcome the global economic crisis too. Mr Lee is happy to mention that many Malay workers are using the SPUR programmes. The jobless have also displayed initiative in seeking help from e2i and CDCs to find new jobs.

Mr Lee is urging those who have lost their jobs to quickly re-train and find a new job. "Some job is better than no job at all," he said in Malay. Also, be financially prudent. More residents are seeing MPs for help. While MPs will do their best to help those facing difficulties, individuals and families must also do their part. This means spending within your means, and not spending every dollar that you expect to earn.

PM Lee welcomes the "Bijak Belanja" (Spend Wisely) campaign which encourages Malay/Muslims to be thrifty during the fasting month.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 6:57pm): PM Lee is now on the topic of maintaining racial and religious harmony.

September 11 was a defining event for our religious harmony. Mr Lee has praised the Malay/Muslim community's immediate and forthright condemnation of terrorism following 9/11. This, he says, is reflective of "a growing self-confidence and progressive attitude when handling sensitive religious issues". PM Lee sees the same spirit in other issues such as the organ donation.

It is a reaction that confirms the development of a distinct identity, said Mr Lee. Malay/Muslim Singaporeans are different from Malays in Malaysia, Indonesia or Brunei in wanting to be identified as Singaporeans first.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 6:59pm): There needs to be more opportunities for various religious groups to interact. Everyone should make the effort to befriend neighbours belonging to other communities.

As the Malay saying goes: "Jiran sepakat membawa berkat". Neighbours who live harmoniously will bring blessings to all.

Having different faiths is an asset for Singapore, but don't allow religion to pull us in separate ways. Exercise tolerance and restraint in the spirit of give and take, and work together to build a shared future.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 7:02pm): PM Lee ends off the Malay speech saying Singapore is entering a new phase. The Malay community too. There are many bright opportunities opening up ahead, and the community should work together with the governement and leaders to address current problems.

His sixth National Day Rally
since becoming PM in 2004.
ST Photo: Terence Tan

Melissa (ST newsroom, 7:04pm): Moving into the Chinese speech now, PM has switched to Mandarin and kicked off by saying Singapore is experiencing an unprecedented economic storm, but that the economy is stabilising.

The global situation has stabilised and some firms are starting to hire. Massive retrenchments are not likely for Q3. We need to be mentally prepared, and in the long term, there is some hope and some green shoots to be seen.

The government fully supports our SMEs. For example the local furniture industry has transformed from a sunset to a sunrise industry. Singapore's SMEs have gone to the whole world, having successfully broken into the East Asia, Eastern Europe and Latin America markets.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 7:08pm): The Singapore Brand is a symbol of excellence and is very important, says Mr Lee. It is a unique weapon that businessmen must enhance and not undermine, and Singaporeans are urged to leverage on it.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 7:11pm): Moving on, PM Lee is now talking about the importance of Singaporean workers taking the initiative to upgrade ourselves. SPUR, e2i,and CDCs, are some ways jobless workers can help themselves.

Written on a wall mural at e2i is the saying: "The mountain doesn't move - the road winds around it. If the road can't turn, the man can still turn; If the man can't turn, his heart can turn." So if you face a mountain in life, go to e2i to find a way, PM Lee urges.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 7:12pm): Turning to healthcare issues now, the Prime Minister says there is a need to build more hospitals, such as the Khoo Teck Puat Hospital in Yishun and Jurong General Hospital. Why?

Elderly patients need appropriate step-down care. Many do not need to stay in large hospitals during recovery, and these community hospitals can provide care at a lower cost.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 7:16pm): PM Lee highlights Ren Ci Hospital and Tan Tock Seng Hospital as good models. The latter provides the medical care, before transferring to Renci, located next door, for step-down care when they stabilise. The patients can go back to TTSH for acute treatment if they worsen.

PM Lee said at a recent meeting with some managers from nursing homes, he was told that some elderly folks had been abandoned by their families.

These elderly parents were sent to the nursing homes by their children, who would then disappear, some even going to the extent of changing their address on their IDs. When contacted, they said they would not care even if the homes turf out their parents. "It is a new social phenomenon and we must deal with it."

To deal with this "uncomfortable problem", PM Lee said the Government will explore how best to use the Maintenance of Parents Act.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 7:18pm): Still on the healthcare issue, PM Lee urged Singaporeans to exercise, not smoke, and watch their diets to ensure a healthy lifestyle. Not only will it lead to a healthy body, it is a pleasureable activity that will help you make more friends too.

It is an issue that we have to be responsible about, because Singapore is facing a rising obesity trend.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 7:21pm): In China, there is a fear of the "3 highs" - high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol. There is a booming weight loss business in China, where some companies charge customers according to how much they lose.

To the amusement of the audience, PM Lee says that in Singapore, the annual healthy lifestyle campaign ensures "free weight reduction". Still, nationwide obesity rates continue to rise. We have to work harder to prevent this, and the "3 highs".

Melissa (ST newsroom, 7:23pm): Moving on to a more serious subject, Mr Lee is now discussing the issue of race and religion.

It is important, he says, that the spirit and sincerity of interaction among religions exists. Despite enjoying much peace and tolerance in this half century, we must not become complacent. Especially at a period when Singaporeans' religious fervour is increasing.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 7:29pm): A case in which the government must maintain a sensitive and neutral attitude on race and religion, is on land acquisition.

Sometimes the government acquires religious sites, a situation which has affected all religions, from Buddhist and Hindu temples to Christian churches. Some affected groups may not want to move, express unhappiness and petition the government.

PM Lee assured Singaporeans that the government will consider these views seriously, and will explain to affected groups if they cannot accomodate these petitions.

Melissa (ST newsroom, 7:32pm): The government must follow four broad principles: Mutual tolerance and accomodation; separation of politics and religion; neutral and secular government; expansion of our common space. These will be vital to the stability and survival of Singapore.

PM Lee will expand on these principles in the English version of the Rally speech.

Ending his Mandarin speech, PM Lee says: "I am confident we can again pass new tests and overcome challenges and build an even better and more prosperous Singapore for all."

Continued here: ST's blog from 8pm.