Ling, flanked by Dr Fong (standing front, ninth left) and Chan, joins the students and other guests in a group photo.
MIRI: Students need to be encouraged in acquiring and learning soft skills such as leadership and effective communications, as these traits could help them go far in life and become successful individuals.
Senator Alan Ling says the country needs future leaders who have the right attitude and values, and it is only right that these characteristics be instilled in them during the formative years.
“For instance, the issue of corruption has long been affecting our country’s development and the federal government has been showing great commitment in creating a transparent culture and a governance with integrity, by making it compulsory for its cabinet members – ministers and deputy ministers – as well as members of the Parliament of both the upper and lower Houses, to declare their assets publicly.
“This is an important step in imposing the right values, where the government servant and leaders whom are entrusted to manage the wealth and resources belonging to the country. They are not allowed to gain self-enrichment by abusing the powers and the positions that they held as such act is called a breach of trust,” said the senator prior to officiating at the prize-giving ceremony at Riam Road Secondary School (RRSS) here yesterday.
Ling also assured all that efforts towards enhancing governance and anti-corruption initiatives were being undertaken, but added that everyone must play their part in combating corruption.
In this aspect, he stressed that it was the duty of parents and teachers to guide the youths, as it was never too early for ‘the young ones to learn about good values’.
Meanwhile, Ling took the opportunity to wish RRSS chief executive officer (CEO) Dato’ Dr Fong Onn Min and the deputy CEO, Chan Siew Ngo, all the best.
It is informed that the two will retire next month.
“Having served RRSS for more than a decade, they (Dr Fong and Chan) are outstanding educationists and their contributions will always be remembered and appreciated,” said Ling.