1-3 Role of Government in the working of the good of the society

1. Maintaining internal order and external security

The government maintains internal order and external security by forming agencies such as the police force to protect its citizens and what society believes should be protected.

For example, during the Little India riot, the Singapore Police Force and Singapore Civil Defence Force were integral in bringing the situation under control. This reduced the possibility of people getting injured, therefore establishing peace and safety in a few hours.

With peace and safety maintained, society can continue functioning as normal and progress.

Hence, by maintaining internal order and external security, the government ensures that our society can keep on functioning and growing because there will be fewer disruptions to society (e.g. wars, worker’s strikes).

2. Ensuring justice

The government ensures justice by having a Judiciary that independently interprets and applies laws passed by the legislature. It ensures that Singapore citizens will be protected against those who go against the law.

For example, those who are victims of domestic violence at home can apply for a Personal Protection Order (PPO) from the courts. If approved, the courts can prevent or restrict the abuser from entering the victim’s house.

When a crime is committed, the Judiciary ensures that the offender is caught and the appropriate punishment is given out. This will deter the offender from future crimes as well as deter other potential offenders.

Hence, by having an independent Judiciary, Singaporeans have confidence that the courts will judge people fairly and enforce laws against those who commit crimes.

3. Providing goods and services for the public

The government provides public goods and services for free or at a subsidised rate for its citizens.

For example, a service provided for the public is transportation. In Singapore, the government has worked towards developing a people-centred public transport system which has more connections and better services.

A good and reliable transport system that is accessible to everyone ensures that citizens of Singapore are able to have an affordable way to get around.

Hence, by providing goods and services for the public, the government value adds to the quality of life of its citizens because all citizens have access to these public goods and services.

4. Safeguarding the interests of citizens

The government safeguards the interests of its citizens by implementing various programmes through legislation.

For example, the Central Provident Fund (CPF) enables Singaporeans to finance their housing and healthcare needs, and have a source of lifelong income in retirement.

CPF ensures that Singaporeans will have enough money to live comfortably and with dignity in their old age even though they may not be earning income anymore.

Hence, when citizens know their interests are being safeguarded, they will have a sense of security about living in the country. This ensures that citizens’ needs and interests are well taken care of and no one is at a disadvantage or left unattended to.