In the UK, I observe first-hand the deleterious effects of sudden strikes, individualism overtaking national interests and the freedom to demean political office holders quite regularly. Also, there are many instances of horrible crimes reported in media daily.

The National Health Service seems to be a disaster and a hot political potato. Several friends of mine had to wait for more than two years for bypass operations.

It is our efficient government which ensures better health care all round. It is a great credit to our Health Minister, Mr Khaw Boon Wan, who was singled out for rare public praise by Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong when he said that he is the best Health Minister Singapore has had so far.

Mr Khaw's revelation of his late mother's terminal illness in Malaysia and having to make the tough decision to pull the plug as nothing more could be done shows both the head and heart working together in unison at optimal level.

No wonder our health service has been lauded as one of the best in the world and more and more foreigners and VIPs seek out Singapore for treatment of serious illnesses.

On a more personal note, I know for certain that NUH and SGH doctors are keeping me alive through the years. I was saved from meloidosis, heart problems, cancer and many serious illnesses by the super efficiency of our medical consultants and staff of these revered institutions. These consultants, just to honour a few, include Prof John Thambiah of NUH, Prof Christopher Cheng, Dr Ooi Boon Swee, Dr Aaron Wong, Dr Peter Sng, Dr Tye and Dr Constance Lo of SGH and many more.

You have to be overseas to appreciate your own home turf. The grass is considered greener on the other side till you step on dung.

Ananda Perera