An ageing population does not necessarily lead to an aged society. It is about anticipating the state of affairs to come and taking pre-emptive measures before Singaporeans turn grey (Panel wants to expand ElderShield coverage; Jan 31).

It is a matter of perspective.

The productive workforce that pays taxes cannot feel short-changed by shouldering the burden of financing greater social spending, which will surely rise as our population ages rapidly. The young should not be lured to greener pastures abroad. There must be stakes here to keep them rooted.

In Scandinavian countries, personal taxes are high but people are supportive because they feel that when they are old, they will be taken care of. The high tax rates do not disincentivise work. In fact, the people enjoy a good work-life balance.

It all boils down to a perception of fairness.

Is there populist pressure to spend more to please the swelling ageing ranks? If so, we risk being polarised along age lines. More must be done to manage the disquiet. Again, it is about the perception of fairness.

Singapore has always been proactive in addressing issues. We may be ageing but certainly not so aged as to be unable to tackle the tough questions.

Lee Teck Chuan