Gangasudhan with contribution from Ravi Philemon >> TOC Review
TOC caught up with Nominated Member of Parliament Mr Viswa Sadasivan who discussed his views in a candid chit-chat session
TV personality, CEO, consultant, trainer and now NMP, Viswa Sadasivan, the former face of hard-hitting current affairs programmes such as Talking Point and Feedback of years ago, is today a specialist in media and crisis management who helms the consultancy firm Strategic Moves.
As most Singaporeans are aware by now, Viswa has assumed his role as an NMP since July this year – just before turning half-century old – and has since presented his maiden speech in parliament. Having settled down into his role quickly and fairly comfortably, TOC felt it a good time to find out more about what the newly-minted NMP stands for.
Representing Values, Not Agenda
Off the bat, Viswa made it clear that he does not represent any interest group or organisation, preferring instead to be faithful to a specific set of causes close to his heart that he feels are integral for Singapore society’s continued progress. For example, comparing the Singapore education system with the American system, he noted that where the system here was ahead by leaps and bounds at the Primary and Secondary levels of education, the same could not be readily said for the higher levels.
He referred to Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences and pointed out that Singapore is primarily focused on the ‘Mathematical-Academic’ form of intelligence with much less importance given to the other forms. Viswa thus feels the Singapore society of today suffers from labelling – strict definitions that are not malleable and are compartmentalising members of the society, and also points out that such labelling leads to oversight in various manifestations.
He illustrated this by identifying the notion of success in Singapore as being predominately about academic achievement, job title and the accumulation of wealth alone, and sadly noted that the cost of this was the exodus of talented people who do not attain high-enough academic qualifications, a glamorous office or great wealth – which, by Singapore standards, becomes a failure to achieve success altogether.
Man with a (Specific) Mission
Thus, based on his strong conviction in the humanness of society, he intends to discuss issues and make appropriate recommendations that facilitate greater parity within society – parity that transcends social class, age and perception. For one, he sees the elderly in Singapore as unnecessarily being painted as weak, feeble and needing to be cared for constantly. However, he notes that a vast majority of the elderly today (and more so in the future) is self-sufficient, confident and independent, and suggested that more dignity and respect could be afforded to this segment of society by simply changing the negative perception towards them.
Noting wryly that he would be able to visit Downtown East for free in five years as a ‘senior citizen’ himself, he shared the personal dilemma of seeing himself being an active and productive member of society for the next 3 decades yet feeling an implicit sense of stigma in becoming an elderly person – which should not be the case.
Similarly, he raised the lack of recognition of the fluidity of life where today’s comfortable law-abiding worker can be tomorrow’s homeless person due to some unforeseen circumstances. He feels that the processes currently in place tend to categorise someone who is suffering a dip in fortune too easily as a failure or as a master of his own doom – which then duly deems such an individual devoid of any sense of dignity. However, this would not be the case and such a desperate person should never be treated as a beggar without any feelings.
Unfortunately, his experiences have shown that in many cases of ill-fortune, those in difficulty are treated as mere cases to be dealt with instead of people with real problems that need solving. Again, he sees this as primarily the downside of negative perception and labelling – something that a shift in mindset on the part of the authorities can go a long way to resolving.
About THAT Speech
Referring to the maiden speech he gave in parliament as an NMP, Viswa takes nothing to heart and instead feels it was a good debate with worthy exchanges of ideologies. He notes that it was never an issue of right or wrong but of bringing up something he felt reflected the sentiments of Singaporeans. And in that regard, his assessment of the aftermath is that the majority of Singaporeans have at least thought about what the Pledge means to them.
And on retrospect, he considers the debate to have been even-handed and something for the people to judge. On a side note, he observes that many are now aware of what Article 152 of the Singapore Constitution means and is convinced that the net result has been a positive impact on society.
Viswa also shared that he spent much time and effort in preparing his maiden speech in parliament and revealed that it is in fact the curtain-raiser for what he feels should be his roles and responsibilities as a Nominated Member of Parliament – duly offering the contents of his speech as a concrete indication of what he stands for.
What Makes Him Tick?
Someone who takes issue with the term ‘National Service Liability’ and considers it ‘National Service Commitment’ instead, Viswa sees himself at a point in his life where he is ready to do more than just earn money. When questioned on what he would have done if the NMP scheme was not an option available to him, he revealed that he would have looked into building something in the social sector such as initiating a social enterprise or creating an NGO.
His decision to apply for the NMP position was made after careful and considered thought and is serious about ensuring that he is true to his convictions at all times during his tenure. In fact, he credits a close group of long-time friends for keeping him grounded and focused and admitted that he would be lambasted by them should he not be doing it for anything less than the right reasons. He reiterated though that he questions his own motives for his choices and actions continuously and is extremely mindful of not letting any sense of ego get in the way of good judgement.
He also believes that engagement and discussion are bedrocks of progress in a society and feels that the government should take the initiative to open up and embrace the larger community so that the society as a whole can mature and the people can learn to discern. However, he noted that where discourse occurs there will invariably be disagreement and such difference of opinions should be dealt with mutual respect.
Viswa sees a trend of authorities reacting to discussion more often than responding, and himself, distinguishes those involved in debate among 3 characters – the Critic, the Sceptic and the Cynic. The Critic, he says, is someone who does not agree with the other’s point of view; the Sceptic is someone who cares enough to ask questions to find out more; and the Cynic is someone who does not care and simply enjoys making the other party squirm.
He suggests that most Singaporeans are either critics or sceptics and he welcomes debate with such members of the society, however, admits that he does not have the time for cynics – and intellectual cynics at that. He also feels that the authorities should not dismiss sceptics as cynics, lest they become so due to the frustration of being ignored.
An Apolitical Animal
It seems that becoming an NMP is not an end-goal for Viswa Sadasivan and when asked about party politics, his response is an almost-flat ‘no’. He revealed that he has been asked, in general, to consider joining a political party in the past but has since realised that being a part of any political party requires one to be faithful to organisational directives that may conflict with his personal beliefs. This is something he is not prepared to do and thus, by virtue makes him unsuitable to be a political party member. Instead, he derives fulfillment from being true to the causes he believes in and staying bound by his personal conviction and conscience.
As for his thoughts on the NMP scheme itself, his opinion is that whilst it serves a function and purpose in the current socio-political climate, it should not be viewed as a permanent solution for Singapore. He suggests that the scheme could evolve into a selection-election hybrid or the selection process itself could adopt more transparency with clear criteria, on which candidates and selected NMPs alike could be assessed. But whatever the changes, his view is that at the end of the day, the scheme should be credible in the eyes of the people.
The Verdict
Viswa Sadasivan appears to be concerned more with real issues than the superficial processes. In the 2 hours spent with him, TOC observed a warm and caring individual who thought nothing of seating reporters in his home-like office and chatting without any hurry.
His responses were forthcoming, insightful and considered, and he readily revealed more than any ‘aspiring politician’ would ever would – leaving the decision on what to include in this report to TOC’s journalistic integrity.
A man who seems to display more characteristics of a social activist than that of a politician, his wish to be judged by the people on his actions is perhaps no highfalutin ideal.
He has an impressive client list :
Most starts with ‘Ministry’ , ‘ National’ and ‘Singapore’.
http://www.strategicmoves.com.sg/clients.shtml
I assume these form the main bulk of revenue for his firm?
This shows his credibility.
I mean he very credible lor. What else?
You have a dominant, monolithic government, so what do you expect? Many people inevitably work with the establishment. There are frankly, few other ways to gain standing and success without having some sort of interaction with an organisation that is in some way linked to the government. This however does not mean that one has no credibility or does not stand his/her own ground.
Visva is yet another PAP prop to hoodwink Singaporeans who want real change — a change to end corruption, nepotism and cronyism.
Top posts at Govt organs and institutions, GLCs and TLCs are dominated by relatives, friends, hangers-on, of those wielding political power who are themselves helping to millions of dollars in salary. Despite the economy in the doldrums, these societal parasites continue to enjoy out-of-this world remuneration.
I wonder what Visva’s take on all these burning questions that are the “talking point” of the large majority of Singaporeans?
I never ever forget a position a man takes, but in his case I’ll be glad to make an exception.
SD
1) Gummy Balboa on November 9th, 2009 10.27 am
He has an impressive client list :
Most starts with ‘Ministry’ , ‘ National’ and ‘Singapore’.
so?
only stupid people who cannot Think will be worried about such. The points brought up in the interview itself seems ok enough. Of course, what he continues to say (as NMP) will be the most important if you wish to judge him.
Viswa is one with status; successful career(business) wellknown in this CITY, consulted by Ministries and National Organizations.
He must certainly wants to ensure his own respectability and integrity, i do not see any reason for him to want to jeopardize his personal standing. If there is anymore that he has to work for; i say get yourself rever by the people for doing the right things for them.
patriot
“Viswa takes nothing to heart and instead feels it was a good debate with worthy exchanges of ideologies.”
How can there be a debate when there isn’t any debate to begin with when the old man admonished him to “shut up and sit down” and every members in the parliament did exactly what was told. How can it be called a debate when the old man has the right of reply only whereas Viswa, having revering the old man like God, never rebut the highfalutin nonsense of the PAP Godfather ?
frankly…from the ground…his likeability is low…just cant explain it…something to do with trust!
look at whats happening to TOC.
sigh….
A man who stands for nothing cannot be taken seriously. All speeches made will just be pretty words and nothing more.
I have a question.
Just give me your most confident answer : Yes / No.
Is there NO POSSIBILITY of Conflict of Interest
when a businessman is trying to represent the people and yet is a nominated by the …. and his client list is ….
I worry if most singaporean may not be able to answer this one so tough a question. go ask a prof and see if he can confidently answer it.
“The points brought up in the interview itself seems ok enough. Of course, what he continues to say (as NMP) will be the most important if you wish to judge him. ”
Could you show what result he has achieved ?
Can one contribute to the betterment of Singapore without being part of a (any) political party?
“A man who stands for nothing cannot be taken seriously. All speeches made will just be pretty words and nothing more.”
Maybe LKY is right to say that Viswa’s parliament speech is nothing but highfalutin. If a man who cannot stand by his own speech and defend it rigorously, isn’t the speech is just highfalutin ? The moment LKY opened his mouth, Viswa backed down totally and even treat LKY’s criticism as a badge of honour that cannot be rebuked. What is Viswa really thinking ? Had he really made some effort to defend his speech in parliament, all would not have been sound so defeating. Really two steps forward, three steps backwards.
Still, some will say it is very easy to criticize if one is not in his shoe then. But then why he even want to become NMP if he is not prepared to speak his mind and to defend his speech ?
Still, all hope is not lost, may Viswa be willing to show more boldness in his next parliament speech otherwise everyone will reluctantly agree with LKY that the speech is nothing but highfalutin.
“He feels that the processes currently in place tend to categorise someone who is suffering a dip in fortune too easily as a failure or as a master of his own doom – which then duly deems such an individual devoid of any sense of dignity. However, this would not be the case and such a desperate person should never be treated as a beggar without any feelings.”
what to do ? you may even get fined for pitching you own tent along east coast road if you are homeless. wonder whether permit will be granted for such application, if it is really being forwarded.
as usual cynics talk about matters on the periphery, rather than the substantive that this article provides.
Whatever happened in his maiden speech was fantastic, so much so – MM has to comment correct and whatever. he two two steps fwd or three step back wards – at least he took the first step! Bravo Vishwa
Alot of comments and ugly critics has been flying north south east west, how many of you once stop to think the guts this man has. He has balls man!!!!!
the last post…don’t kid yourself..i can see beyond all the beautiful window dressing…let’s put it bluntly…call a spade a spade…he’s representing his own interests…business stupid!
If he is caring, what has he done to help the poor and weak before he became NMP? Good to know. He must have done a lot.
Indonesia has “wayang kulit”.
Please think of a name for our NMP scheme.
“Indonesia has “wayang kulit”.
Please think of a name for our NMP scheme.”
NMP is already a good name. NMP = No More Pap , so does that sound wayang enough ?
12) Jeremi Au Yeng on November 9th, 2009 4.14 pm
Could you show what result he has achieved ?
Achieved? Do NMPs achieve anything other than talk in Parliament? If so, that he got LKY riled up enough to stand up and talk should count as an achievement, no?
Frankly, NMPs are people that nobody voted for. They do not have any voting powers one way or the other. So, other than ka jiao-ing the PAP during Parliament, I do not expect to them to achieve anything.
SG. is both blessed and cursed by the PAP govt. The govt. are a bunch of people. People are humans who make mistakes (in Govts. too) There has never been critical assessments of govt. both in parliament or in media.
viswa, why did you only speak up AFTER being nominated by … erm, i suppose a PAP leader?
why you did not speak up without being nominated?
do you need to be nominated before you speak up?
I just like to understand more about you.
So there is no need for Opposition anymore?
complete 1 party dominance?
I am always impressed by businessmen that they not only know how to earn money, calculate profit margins , think of how to earn more and more, they can also speak and write well, maciam like poetry in motion.
Scrap the NMP system. PERIOD.
The truth is that the NMPs only represent themselves, which is a scheme to convince the people we don’t need opposition – if you think deeper, you will come to the conclusion the NMP scheme will never benefit the people one way or another. They may brought up issues that sometimes aligned with our thoughts from time to time, but in truth, they are like anyone (albeit a grander stage) on the street whom write feedback to the government – and can be conveniently ignored as well.
In my opinion, Singapore needs leaders that have to go via the baptism of fire to truly understand their roles to the public. Scrapping the NMP System will expedite the process.
In conclusion, it doesn’t matter how well or how bad each NMP has/had performed. It’s another backdoor system that should not have existed in the political sphere in the first place.
No one charges forth into the fray without making an informed judgement.
If you were in his shoes, do you expect him to go out charging? It’s better to make nuanced efforts to be a politician first..
I do not see much solid value in NMP system.
“In my opinion, Singapore needs leaders that have to go via the baptism of fire to truly understand their roles to the public. ”
Dr Chee is one proven guy in this respect.
The other is the late JBJ.
Singapore’s Opposition is the most tamed in the world.
“Singapore’s Opposition is the most tamed in the world.”
Beside, Singapore’s Opposition is the most damned in the world. Damn if they do, damn if they don’t.
Mr Viswa Sadasivan should seriously consider standing as an independent candidate in the coming GE. Why not? In this way, you have more moral strength to speak against policies that are against the interest of Singapore without risking being dumped as NMP.
What’s really happening @ TOC?
Aiya, talk so much for about? What does it prove?
Why want to form NGO? Form a political party lah. More challenging and convincing, right?
Singapore is so short of capable opposition party candidates, yet people are still so frighten to form or join political parties, except of course on the PAP.
See? How many of the top scholars have joined PAP and Admin Service? Why all of them have no guts to join Opposition political parties? Is it because it is too risky, too troublesome, will be victimised by powerful people in the PAP? Frighten and scare, right?
FEAR! FEAR! FEAR!
Let’s give Viswa a chance to prove himself. I think he was just being polite to the old man in not rebutting him, despite being put down for allegedly spouting highfaluting nonsense.
Who knows, Viswa in being consultant to the government agencies he works for, might even influence them into being more open-minded, more reform-minded, more people-oriented.
Talk about change from within — good old Viswa might have more than a trick or two, up his sleeve.
http://theonlinecitizen.com/2008/05/singapores-crisis-of-leadership/
So much for those who claim he has said nothing in the past. There is more, do some research before you start jabbing on your keyboards.
He has been talking, and will probably keep on doing so in the future, while many of you continue to hide behind your computer screens and pretend to be the lords of politics.
SG. may one day be doomed by the arrogance of the pap govt. When push comes to shove, when catastrophe hits the world in all places, SG may find itself with no friends. With NO credible opposition (in part pap’s doing) why should the rest of would help you. I think it is in pap’s (or rather SG’s well being) to grow a credible opposition.
Nicely written article!
@ 35) tookie
“http://theonlinecitizen.com/2008/05/singapores-crisis-of-leadership/
So much for those who claim he has said nothing in the past. There is more, do some research before you start jabbing on your keyboards. ”
If what’s reported in the link you gave represents the type of “said nothing” rebuttal, then I sad for the future of Singapore if Viswa is the type to add value to the Singapore politics.
Try compare him with Jamie Han at the NUS a few years ago.
As to his comment in the link about depoliticisation &/or apathy, I think he’s ignorant.
I would recommend that Mr Viswa Sadasivan either joins an opposition political party, or form a new political party or enter the next elections as an independent candidate.
Only then can most Singaporeans take him seriously.
Firstly, as an NMP, his position is controlled by the government, right from the start – i.e. the selection process – until the end, when and if he decides to go for a second term.
Secondly, as an NMP he can sail in the comfort zone, taking pot shots at the government and the policies without having to pay the ‘cost’.
Thirdly, as an NMP he does not have the moral support of the electorate, so his words do not carry much strength. They would be just seen like academic discussions by the people in power.
Fourthly, as an NMP he cannot vote on many issues in Parliament.
Last but not least, as an NMP he is condoning and supporting the system that is trying to do away with real opposition politicians and alternative choices that the people are aspiring to.
Therefore, no matter how he presents himself, many people will still perceive him as a government man, and also a pro-PAP man. He simply adds up to the 82 PAP MPs already in the Parliament, albeit trying to present his so-called ‘independent’ view points, which indirectly the PAP to entrench its power even deeper.
It would be good if our MR NMP can go for the fundamentals instead of performing the role of a cosmetics advertiser.
The NMP scheme is just a transparent redundant o no electoral representation to deny the relevance of opposition in Parliament. Enough said.