Admirable qualities of the American way

America faces many big challenges. They have to rebuild their economy, to reform health care, to regulate the financial sector. They faced a big budget and trade deficit.

I have been followed the debates in Congress over the past months and speeches by President Obama. I also listened to the inaugural speeches of many past Presidents. They gave me the confidence that America will overcome these challenges and be a better nation. Here are my reasons:

a) Honesty. The leaders of America are honest people. They recognize the problems and face them squarely. They engage in honest debates and have an open mind to explore the options. The people expect their leaders to be honest, sincere and open.

b) Courage. The leaders and the people have the courage to face their challenges and are determined to overcome them. They are driven by what is right, good for the country and needs to be done. They do not shirk their responsibility.

c) Fairness. They believe strongly in fairness and justice. Their solutions will be for the benefit of the people at large, and not just a few.

d) Public service. The leaders earn a modest salary, which is a fraction of what they can earn in the private sector. Their salaries are benchmark against the national average, not against the top salaries in the private sector. But they are proud to be in public service to serve the people and the nation. This is a stronger motivation than monetary rewards.

e) Positive. They are a positive people. They show confidence and hope in working for a better future. This is the strength of a people who cherish freedom over tyranny.

I hope that the leaders and people of Singapore can embrace these qualities, so that our nation can also be strong and united.

Tan Kin Lian