Insights
Q: What 3 words would you use to describe each of the SGs?
A: Friend. They are both my friends. And for SG – understanding, and very efficient. A superb administrator, she brings order wherever she goes, including to the Supreme Court Registry. She was also in charge of the new Supreme Court building before becoming SG. That was probably why she had the requisite experience when it came to Upper Pickering Street!
As for Jeffrey, he is fun. He’s always got something to say! And the last word – connection. Jeffrey has lots of friends and connections all over the world, both personal and professional. I think he even said once that Sumiko Tan of the Straits Times is related to him!
Q: What advice would you give to a young drafter?
A: Don’t look upon yourself as a mere wordsmith or technician. You are more like an architect. You not only build, but you design and apply the aesthetics in terms of elegance of language and structure. More importantly, you uphold the rule of law and ensure that, within your capability, your work does not result in injustice or unfairness. It’s like being a doctor, more of a calling than a profession.
Don’t forget that your work will affect a cross-section of the population more than the individual client, or the individual accused, as in the case of the prosecutor.
Q: What do you think of the new national day song?
A: Just heard it online. It is very catchy and grows on you. I think the theme of unity and the multi-generational rapping is significant. Singaporeans are in danger of becoming cynical and critical. (Ed: O, touché!) But I am still fond of the evergreen Home performed by Kit Chan and Stand Up for Singapore as re-arranged by Zubin Mehta when the New York Philharmonic Orchestra performed it in the National Stadium in 1984.
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