Dear Friends,

Most of the time, a soft word turns away anger.

I raise the issue of MP for Pasir Ris-Punggol Ms Sun Xueling publicly shaming a resident as a reminder to treat residents with dignity and respect.

Even if they are rude and use boorish language.

This issue was raised to me by some residents, who felt aggrieved by Ms Sun’s actions.

The resident had written to Ms Sun out of frustration as problems with the estate had been left unaddressed.

To Ms Sun’s credit, she did follow up on the complaint and give a response a day later.

However, there is no need to publish the letter online and highlight the flaws in the resident’s language.

Even if one feels offended by the resident’s comments, lashing out and retaliating is never the solution.

Children are taught that in school, though sometimes they forget.

As a public figure, I have encountered my share of nasty people.

Some would make things personal and pass very hurtful comments about my appearance and my language.

One time, I had to lodge a police report as someone threatened to harm my family.

Yet, we have to take things in our stride.

There is no need to take the high ground, especially in a case where a resident wants to give feedback but is unable to do so in an appropriate manner.

Serve residents with humility, treat them with care, and accord them some respect if they mistakes.

The SDA strives to do that, and I hope that our current PAP MPs will remember that.

Desmond Lim
Chairman
Singapore Democratic Alliance