MyStory

Mdm Roslin Binte Rustam, 1973
Senior Human Resource Assistant, Land Transport Authority

Do you know that you share a very important birthday with our country? 3rd December is the date when Singapore’s National Anthem, the new flag and Coat of Arms (State Crest) were first unveiled to the newly-self-governing state. How do you feel about that?

No. I was quite surprised. I feel honoured. At least it’s a special day to remember on my birthday - it’s when the National Anthem and National Flag was released. I feel proud to be a Singaporean.

It’s been 50 years since Singapore achieved self-governance, and 44 years since Independence. I would like to find out more about your thoughts about Independence. Singapore has seen three governments during its history - British, Japanese and Malaysian. Have you ever wondered what it will be like if Singapore is not independent?

We will not be as prosperous and united as a nation, where all the different races come together. I don’t think Singapore will be a very peaceful country. And then you can see in terms of the economy, maybe it will not be as thriving, and then education-wise, it will not be as good.

Do you think it’s important for Singapore to be independent? Why?

It is important. One thing, economy-wise, if not for a good government, we will never be as what it is now

Do you know the significance of national symbols in general and what national symbols are and what they stand for?

National symbols symbolise our nation itself. Our values, our pride and honour. Without them, nobody will know what Singapore is.

What are some of the biggest changes between the Singapore of your childhood and now? Could you share more about them?

Education is one of them. Compared to last time, I think education is better. Now we have MRT, we have LRT, then we have biggest Changi Airport hub, then we got three terminals plus one budget terminal. We managed to get the best airport in the world and our roads are so much better compared to other countries. Housing-wise also, we are so much better. Last time it used to be kampungs, now it’s so much better itself. Job-wise, career, it’s so much better.

Is there anything you miss about Singapore from the past?

It’s the lifestyle. Now we don’t get to enjoy climbing trees or you know, more freedom. Now it’s more like living in an enclosed area. I think now with the younger generation, the unity is not much compared to last time. Because in kampung, they helped out each other. I think the upbringing of all those younger kids, I think those whoever went abroad, by the time they come back, they focus more on career rather than family. The bonding is not there.

Are there changes that you find positive? Could you share them with us?

Standard of living is better. Though I can say that it’s high in expenses but the thing is we get our nation to strive further. Like I say, if you don’t strive further, you become more like other Third World Country, so Singapore prospers a lot.

What does ‘Home’ mean to you?

A good place where I can relax with my families and friends.

Would you see Singapore as your home? Why is that so?

Yes. We have everything here. Compared to other countries, we have good transport, we have friends, we have good education, career, government…a lot of things.

When you think about Singapore, what are the first things that come to mind?

Food. Tourism attraction like Sentosa, the Zoo. A lot of good shopping centres. People. A multi-racial place where you are united, especially in all those events like National Day or Racial Harmony Day. Even Deepavali or Hari Raya, other races can accept the particular race as itself.

If you have a foreign friend coming to Singapore, what are the top three things that you would introduce your friend to?

Food. Chilli crab, satay, then maybe chicken rice. Places of interest like Sentosa, Zoo, and even the Singapore Flyer.  The third one, it will be best that a foreigner is able to come during special events like National Day or Racial Harmony Day, so they get to see how multi-racial, united as one we are.

What does it mean to be a Singaporean to you?

Proud to be one, because it’s a peaceful nation I live in. I have a good government that cares for its people here. A united nation where people will unite regardless of race, language or religion.It is very unique. And most of the tourists are quite shocked to see that we are a united nation and also they commented that Singapore is a very clean country and a peaceful one.Most of the younger generation, they move out of Singapore and make Singapore internationally known. That’s why it’s like we are being recognised throughout the whole world.

Are there moments you feel proud of Singapore, or to be a Singaporean? Can you share with us these moments?

National Day. You will feel very proud because you get to see everybody gather around and celebrate nationhood. It’s just like, you come celebrate together, they don’t care what race you are.I want to say that I’m proud to be a Singaporean to other people. And I’m still very proud of Singapore because you see what Singapore is capable now after going through a lot of difficulties for the past few years so at least Singapore prospers a lot as a nation. 

What hopes and aspirations do you hold for Singapore?Hopefully, with Singaporeans going abroad, to further their studies or for career or holiday, to promote Singapore as a multi-racial country itself. People overseas think Singapore is just a part of China. So it’s like quite humiliating. Promote Singapore as a multi-racial nation and its government. We should be very proud of our government because we don’t have bribery, and hardly there’s crime. Career-wise, hopefully more jobs to come. Hopefully no more retrenchment. Economy, hopefully will be more stable, especially with the Integrated Resorts coming up in a few years’ time. With the younger generation moving out from Singapore, hopefully they still come back rather than make other countries their own home. Prosper in the future. Better economy. More peaceful. Government-wise, good. People wise, more united.