She went on to share two key ideas for her first points; one on how in many Asian countries, her parliamentary colleagues have to face murder or encounter arson for their views and affiliations. Second, even in the US, she felt increasing cynicism among Americans and suggested to ambassador Herbold, which was in the audience, of whether Singapore's compulsory voting will be a panacea for the United States.

On the checks on the executive, she suggest that information available in the public domain should be increased. She also noted that the rise of alternative media will put pressure points on mainstream media to be more balanced in its reporting. She ended with comments on Asian values, "My view is that if democracy embodies citizen participation in public life and in determining the kind of society we have, there is enough scope within it to cater for Asian values. All politicians should face their electorates squarely and seek mandates which are truly democratic"

During the dinner breaks, delegates from different countries talked and took photographs with her.

On the confluence 06, CNA has a decent report here. I will not repeat what was already reported but will instead share some of my personal observation on the ministerial dialogue with Minister of Defence, Mr Teo Chee Hean. His speech to the student can be found here.

I asked a question on overseas voting, on whether the Minister will revisit the strict criterion of overseas voting and allow more overseas Singaporeans to vote, along the lines of argument in an article I have written earlier. The Minister's replied that there are two factors that hinder the expansion of overseas voting. One is that Singapore must ensure that those who vote overseas have a stake in Singapore. Another reason is the limited resources in terms of the limited number of embassies that can handle overseas voting capabilities.

Another student asked whether Singapore will have a liberal arts college one day in view that Singapore wants to create global and thinking citizens. The Minister reply's was that education itself has two aspects; one that fosters thinking and the one that emphasises on practicality in skills. He does not want Singaporeans who can think only but do not have the practical skills to thrive in this economy of ours.

Having attended several of these forums, I notice a disparity in the quality and empathy of replies by PAP MPs, Private Sector Personnel and Opposition members. Some like Minister Teo and Halimah Yaacob carry astute, patient and understanding replies while others are more brusque and less understanding.

Did you attend the Gala Dinner or the Confluence 06 Ministerial Dialogue? Do you have comments on Sylvia's Speech? What do you think of the recent annoucements by the government to reach out to overseas Singaporeans? Share your thoughts with Singapore Angle.