Singapore must not fear unusual, innovative approaches to future challenges, says Jayakumar at book launch

Veteran statesman Professor S Jayakumar, 87, emphasized at the launch of his book on Wednesday (Aug 12) that Singapore should not shy away from taking unusual and innovative approaches to future challenges. Prof Jayakumar's new book, Creating Three Unique Singapore Laws: An Inside Story, traces the origins of the elected presidency, Group Representation Constituencies (GRCs), and Non-Constituency Members of Parliament (NCMPs) through constitutional amendments during his tenure in government from 1981 to 2011.

The book aims to shed light on the deliberations that led to these laws, which the People's Action Party and its government have long kept confidential, a practice that ensures collective responsibility and prevents leaks. However, Prof Jayakumar believes that the public deserves insight into how Cabinet discussions unfold and the processes of compromise and consensus.

He also aims to dispel the misconception that Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore's founding Prime Minister, discouraged dissent, as Lee was open to contrary views, including those from younger ministers. Prof Jayakumar highlighted that Lee's far-sighted approach to governance extended beyond his own premiership and lifetime, as evidenced by his foresight in implementing the GRC scheme, which was initially criticized by opposition politicians.

The book further reveals Lee's commitment to listening to alternative options, a practice that continued during Jayakumar's service under the governments of Goh Chok Tong and Lee Hsien Loong. Despite numerous uncertainties, Prof Jayakumar believes that Singapore's small size and unique circumstances have been factors in the country's development since independence, and these factors will continue to shape Singapore's future.