By: Dr. Carlos P. Gatmaitan, FICD
Fellow
Institute of Corporate Directors
Long before the terms “governance” and “sustainability” became buzzwords in the corporate world, strategic governance practices were implemented effectively by leaders such as Singapore’s founder and prime minister, Lee Kuan Yew. Pragmatic, forward-thinking leadership served as an exemplary model for countries aiming for sustainable economies.
In transforming a small, resource-scarce island nation into a global economic powerhouse, Lee Kwan Yew’s leadership was anchored in three key priorities that continue to define Singapore’s success. In a recent interview, former United Kingdom Prime Minister Tony Blair expressed these priorities as:
Singaporeans should speak English
Get the best human capital worldwide
No tolerance policy on corruption
So simple yet so brilliant and successful as Singapore is the most sustainable and well-governed country in the world, being ranked 2nd in per capita GDP at around $85,000 (Philippines is 124th at $4,400). What is astounding is that Singapore exceeded the Philippine economy way back in the late 1970s, barely a decade after gaining its independence. Singapore’s growth anchored on Mr. Yew’s principles stood the test of time despite having less than 6 million Singaporeans today.
Let’s dig deeper at these three priorities:
1. Singaporeans should speak English — COMMUNICATION
Understanding the importance of effective communication in unifying a diverse population, Lee Kuan Yew mandated that English be the primary language in Singapore. This decision was not aimed at erasing cultural identities but rather at providing a common platform for communication.
The Philippines is blessed (and lucky) that we are the second largest English-speaking country in the world. Reality is we are losing so much ground as the entire world has caught up. Our answer would be to elevate our country’s communication skills in the digital world through accessibility, advanced interfaces, internet speed and applications. Communication in the new world goes far beyond the dialects but rather the medium of the processes involved in relaying information.
2. Attracting and developing the best talent — HUMAN CAPITAL
Lee Kuan Yew recognized that the world’s most valuable resource is its people. His government implemented policies to attract the brightest minds from around the world and invested heavily in education to develop local talent. The emphasis on meritocracy, with the terms Diversity, Equity and Inclusion being given the attention before the acronym became famous today.
The Philippines population ranks 13th in the world at 107 million. Except for business process outsourcing, our top industries in manufacturing, real estate and tourism remain plagued with average performance when compared to our ASEAN neighbors. Through our human capital, our company needs to continuously develop Information technology, E-commerce, logistics, mining and other necessary industries such as food, agriculture, education and skills development.
3. Anti-corruption: Zero tolerance for corruption
A hallmark of Lee Kuan Yew’s governance was his unwavering stance against corruption. Recognizing that corruption could undermine economic progress and public trust, he introduced strict anti-corruption policies, ensuring that government officials operated with integrity and accountability. The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau was given extensive powers to investigate and prosecute corruption cases, sending a clear message that unethical behavior would not be tolerated.
If there was one thing the previous administration did right, it was the creation of the Philippine Anti-Corruption Commission — a great idea but ultimately the absolute worst of the worst in terms of implementation. BBM has since abolished the PACC but has no answer so far to the corruption problem that exists from top to bottom and left to right in our government — plain and simple. What is the answer to the Philippine corruption problem? We call on no less than BBM, the Senate and the House to give a strategic governance plan to exterminate corruption.
If Lee Kwan Yew and Singapore did this over 50 years ago, can we give it a relentless try? Of course! We are the Philippines and love our country dearly.
Disclaimer:
On January 26, 2025, “Strategic governance and sustainability: A direct correlation with success beyond the corporate world” was published. It was authored by Dr. Carlos P. Gatmaitan, a fellow of the Institute of Corporate Directors.
You can read the original article through this link:
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