Voting is a vital part of nation-building

"I don't intend to vote this year. I don't have much use for politicians and, anyway, my vote won't make any difference," a close friend told me ("No walkovers, 2.46m to vote on Sept 11"; yesterday).

I can understand his attitude.

It is easy to become cynical about government or feel that our vote is insignificant.

But what would happen, I reminded him, if everyone had his attitude? What kind of leadership would we likely get, then?

We need leaders who are men and women of integrity and wisdom, and we should be thankful that we live in a country where we have the privilege of choosing our leaders.

We must never take that responsibility lightly.

For the past 50 years of nation-building, because of all those in authority, we could live peaceful and quiet lives.

So, let us vote and, as we vote, let us remember all those who have been in positions of political leadership.

I hope all the candidates in this general election take their responsibilities seriously and seek sound wisdom to do what is good.

Lin Yunbiao

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on September 03, 2015, with the headline Voting is a vital part of nation-building. Subscribe