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Saturday September 5, 2009

Your 10 Questions


Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye

Featuring ex-politician and social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.

The crime rate in the country has increased dramatically. Why do you think that is so? Any solutions – long and short term? – Katherine Yen, Selangor

The surge in crimes, particularly street crime and house break-ins, is viewed with utmost seriousness by the Government with its declaration of crime prevention as one of the National Key Result Areas and Key Performance Indicators. The increase can be attributed to the general economic downturn, social ills, drug addiction, unemployment as well as the presence of illegal immigrants.

The short-term solution is to deploy more police personnel on the streets and in crime-prone areas, ensure the omnipresence of the law enforcers and set up more close-circuit TVs. The long-term solution is for the Government to promulgate effective social policies and programmes to prevent and control criminal activities.

There is a need to build safe communities through the implementation of safe city and neighbourhood initiatives involving the police, local authorities, the private sector, NGOs and the residents to achieve a crime-free environment.

You are highly regarded as a social activist. How different is it from being a politician and which one allows you to serve the public better? – Kaizer Amiruddin, Perak

I am committed to serving the nation and the community in various capacities. Even when I was a politician (MP), I devoted a lot of time to social causes. Whether I am in or out of politics does not really matter in terms of my commitment and desire to serve.

If you could turn back the clock to 30 years ago, what would you do differently? What is your advice to the youths who aspire to become politicians? – P.G. Sheng, Batu Pahat

I would not do anything differently given the circumstances then and my nature and style of handling situations.

To those who aspire to be in politics, it requires dedication and sheer commitment to serve with integrity. It also calls for sacrifices for the cause one believes in.

You have been encouraging corporations to consider Employee Assistance Programme and promote mental health programmes at their workplaces. What else can be done towards this end? – Lim Chern, Kuala Lumpur

I am a strong advocate for corporations to adopt an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). The EAP aims to help companies or organisations address issues or problems that may affect the job performance of their employees as well as the productivity of the enterprise.

EAP provides both prevention and early intervention of employee problems, thus improving the employee’s health, functioning and overall quality of life. As chairman of the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, I shall continue to impress upon corporations the need to introduce EAP in their respective organisation.

I recall many years ago an illustration by our cartoonist Lat of you, as an MP seated with a typewriter bashing out complaints on behalf of the rakyat. Do you still use this faithful machine? – Bulbir Singh, Seremban

The mobile typewriter which I used as an MP for over 20 years to serve the people is of great sentimental value to me and one of my most treasured possessions. As a matter of fact, I owned two mobile Olivetti (Lettera 25) typewriters. I donated one to the Election Commission Museum two years ago upon their request for artifacts to be displayed in the museum. I am keeping the other one which is still in good condition. I will not part with this faithful machine. An interested party recently offered to purchase my machine but I turned it down.

I have to move with the times in this ICT age and circumstances have compelled me to go IT which is part of my learning curve.

Do you agree that the Government should consider increasing the permissible age for buying alcohol and tobacco? Do you think that is effective in reducing the consumption of alcohol and tobacco among youths in the country? – SC Yap, Johor Baru

The Government could consider increasing the permissible age for buying alcohol and tobacco after due consultation with the relevant parties.

The idea is to keep youths and teenagers away from alcohol and tobacco consumption which may lead to social ills.

But, at the end of the day, what is really important is effective law enforcement. Without enforcement it makes a mockery of laws and regulations.

As vice-chairman of the Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation, what is your stand on Chinese youths not interested in joining the police force? – Mohd Faizal Abdullah, Kuala Lumpur

I wish to encourage more of our multi-racial youths to join the police force, not only Chinese youths but also Indians and others.

The Chinese make up less than 5% of the 90,000-strong force.

Where do you get the stamina and motivation in spite of the challenges and criticisms you face? What do you do when you feel tired – physically, emotionally and mentally? – L.C. Tan, PJ

It has not been easy and certainly not without stress. I need lots of energy and stamina to do the very things I am doing now. It is a sense of responsibility and commitment to the organisation I belong. And it is a call for national service that prods me on to be involved in a number of organisations I am in now. There are of course criticisms which, rightly or wrongly, I take in stride.

When I get tired and stressed up, I just take my mind off things and plan for short breaks. Health of course takes precedence and I go for regular check-ups and workouts.

Mental health is very important. Of course, words of comfort from your loved ones and close friends mean a lot and are a great source of inspiration.

What are your personal values?

– Rokiah Anas, Kuala Lumpur

I abide by a number of values which form the principles and foundation of my life.These are self-discipline, humility, understanding, caring, honesty, mutual respect, patience, peace, faith and of course reflection. If I have to do something I always give it the best shot.

My charitable activities through the S P Setia Foundation are most rewarding because they produce results and give me a strong sense of fulfillment.

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