Singaporean Joan Sim, 27, a PhD student at Nanyang Technological University’s (NTU) School of Biological Sciences, had a burning question for former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.
Given the big influx of immigrants here in a short time, and a dilution of the national identity, what can we do to create a sense of belonging and foster social cohesiveness, she asked.
And rather personal ones at that.
Following her question, Mr Lee spoke about the fast ageing population.
That, plus the drop in the fertility rate, are major worries for Singapore’s leaders.
Mr Lee then paused and looked at Miss Sim.“How old are you now?” he wanted to know.
“Twenty-seven,” she replied.
The queries came thick and fast: Are you married? (No) When will you finish your PhD? (In two years) So you’ll be 29 then. Do you have a boyfriend? (No)
That was when Mr Lee drew attention to the biological clock and a woman’s child-bearing years.
After 35 (years old), the dangers of having children with Down syndrome rises, he said.
“My advice, please don’t waste time. I hope you get your PhD and your boyfriend,” he added.
The audience laughed loudly. Miss Sim turned red.
She told The New Paper: “It was very, very embarrassing. At that moment, I wanted to hug myself and disappear.
“My mind turned into a total blank when he started asking those questions.”
Content used in this not-for-profit blog remain the property of their respective owners.
No comments:
Post a Comment