Open Letter to Mr Philip Yeo

Congratulations on your victory. A bitter victory that perhaps left quite a few scars.

AcidFlask has apologised in the manner you wanted him to.

But, tell me, was it worth it?

Was it really necessary? Did it do more hurt than heal in the end?

What are the repercussions on your reputation? The very same reputation that you strive so hard to upkeep?

Did the apology reassure you, made you sleep tighter at night? Did the apology improve your quality of life in any way? Did it do wonders for your ego? (ok don't answer the last).

It was supposed to be a simple, clearcut shushing procedure.

How did it get blown up? Why did it get blown up? Why did it enthrall so many local and foreign entities?

Would it then contrastingly have become more of a loudhailer effect?

Were their interest in the affairs in your best interests?

On Hindsight, would there have been a better way to resolve the issue? One more subtle, one more proportionate, one more reasonable?

On Hindsight, would it have been better to dismiss it with a wave of your hand? He is but a student, whereas you are the head of a government agency. The repute and goodwill that have accrued over the years surely outweigh the student's. Do you doubt that people will see your good works in a different light just because of a simple student's inane comments on an obscure blog? If so, why?

I, for one, do not doubt, nor have ever doubted your esteemed name or works, nor will this issue affect my opinion in any way. However, this event has cast a dark cloud over sensitive, fragile issues such as the Singapore's reputation in the eyes of the world and free speech. It has planted seeds of doubt which would hopefully not be allowed to sprout. I recognise that defending your name is important. But in the same vein I beseech you to understand our position (as citizens of Singapore, and as purveyors of free speech).

I do sincerely hope that it was worth it.