Deputy Prime Minister Wong Kan Seng said this in Parliament yesterday, after Nominated MP Eunice Olsen urged a review of the Public Entertainments and Meetings Act.

She said that in order for Singaporeans to 'meaningfully identify - beyond monetary terms - with the notion of belonging to a First World nation', there needed to be more space for 'public expression and activity'.

Noting that 1,000 Singaporeans a year give up their citizenship, she asked: 'Would a better balance between law and order and a demonstrable regard for the importance of social expression have made a difference for them?'

Replying, Mr Wong described how policies on public expression had evolved and relaxed over the years, but stopped short of allowing outdoor and street demonstrations.

Demonstrations held indoors or within stadiums are permitted, as any disorder would be better contained.

'We are presently reviewing how we can further liberalise the use of Speakers' Corner as an outdoor venue for more political activities including demonstrations,' he said.

Outdoor demonstrations have been banned since bloody riots in the 1960s led to deaths, injuries and damage to property, a fact Mr Wong referred to.

He said that even in many supposedly mature societies, there are peaceful protests that degenerate into riots and violence.

He said Singapore had seen real change over the years, with more divergent views expressed in the media, on the Internet, and in letters to government leaders.

'While the occasional robust response is given when felt necessary, there has been generally a more accommodative dialogue with the man in the street,' he said.

He emphasised the need to maintain certain fundamentals even as society opens up more.

Top of the list: In a multi-religious society, the rule of secular law is especially vital.

'If we are to have maximum space to pursue our interests with equal basic protection, we must also observe equal basic liability and obligation,' he said.

Second: The sensitivities of each ethnic community must be respected, with no denigration of another's religion or ethnicity.

Third: There should be no foreign interference in domestic politics.

'They are free to share their ideas, views and criticisms. But foreigners do not have the right of citizens to participate directly in the politics of Singapore,' he said.

Fourth: With greater autonomy, there must be greater individual accountability for one's actions.

Ultimately, said Mr Wong, these fundamentals are the light by which Singapore will steer, and review, its policies.

xueying@sph.com.sg

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