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I have told you many times.
Don't let the water drip when drying clothes.
Now I have to rewash it.
Do you want me to cut off your water pipe?
And…
You keep playing with paper planes.
It always gets into my house.
How many times do you want me to repeat it?
Mom! Save me!
-Someone wants to hit me! -Hey!
-Mom! Save me! Someone wants to hit me! -Got it?
Mom!
Mom! Save me!
-Mom? -Huat.
Mom!
Huat, are you already awake?
How many times do you want me to call you? Get ready, quick!
Su Ting. Su Qin.
What?
Did you dream about asking mom to save you again?
How many times must I tell you?
Mom passed away a long time ago.
Even if the hooligan downstairs
or the old troublemaker next door comes to bully us,
she will not come back to life and save us.
So, we have to unite and fight for ourselves.
This way, we won't get bullied by others.
Brush my teeth.
Brushing teeth every day.
Doing the same thing.
Done.
Su Ting, Huat did not use toothpaste when brushing!
Su Ting, he hit me!
I wanted to rinse my mouth first.
I'm done brushing.
Here.
Don't know how to say thank you?
Whose book is this?
MENSTRUAL PERIOD
Su Ting! It's mine!
I didn't know you had a period too.
And there's even discharge?
Do you want me to buy Bak Foong pills for you?
No wonder the colored pages
of every issue of my SISTERS are missing!
So it is with you.
You are so smart.
And you're getting worse!
That's strange.
How are you in the same class as Heng?
Because of Mom's blessing.
Huat's primary and secondary school are both affiliated,
so there are some privileges.
How else would he be able to enter the school?
Dream on.
Su Qin, why did you say that?
Did I offend you by being in the same class as Heng?
Don't think you're smart because you earn money
working at Emporium as a salesgirl.
Of course she is smart!
She is paying for your school fees.
What's that for?
Su Qin is very capable.
What course did you pass again?
-Nurse at Singapore General Hospital. -Nurse at Singapore General Hospital.
-Did you get a pay rise? -Yes.
It's 50 dollars.
Is 50 dollars a lot?
I will definitely earn more than you next time.
-Show off. -Then you have to be like Su Xin.
Achieve a university degree,
then you'll earn more money.
Don't just say it without doing it.
Huat, you're going to be late!
-Quick! -Where's your bag?
-Don't drink anymore. -Hurry.
-Quick! Get up. -Go now!
-Take this, go now. -Wait!
-Bye! -Hey!
Don't speak dialect in school!
You have been penalized many times!
Pay for it yourself.
Su Qin has 50 dollars!
That money is not to pay your penalty.
Obscure street lights
Quietly lying in the rain
The past has passed my heart
I am Shun Fa.
When my mom was still around,
we walked the path that she had created for us
and didn't have to worry about anything.
Now that Mom is gone,
we took the compensation from the farm.
After buying a three-room flat,
the amount left is not much.
Good morning, Mr. Ah Hui!
Morning!
In the blink of an eye
It is the spring breeze
Layers of homesickness thoughts Have also faded
So Su Ting has taken the responsibility of Mom
and Su Qin, who is weaker in studies just like me
have to work to earn money
to support Su Xin and me.
Since then, the four of us started to walk the path
without Mom guiding us.
Until our hair becomes grey
On a cool road
Pedestrians are rushing
On the street lights
Isolating in the rain
There is a faint singing voice In the distance
So, this is our story.
The story after we left our village.
Time passes like flowing water
In the blink of an eye
It is the spring breeze
YEAR 1979
Layers of homesickness thoughts Have also faded
He is more concentrated in his hometown
Heng!
This is Yong Xing.
My cousin of the same age.
He is the youngest son of my first uncle
whom he and an overseas singer secretly gave birth to.
Aunt was furious,
but she was helpless and had to accept it.
Why didn't you wait for me to come together?
I did.
When I walked to your house, I heard your sister
discussing seriously the menstrual issue with you.
So embarrassing. I felt awkward.
That's why I quickly ran off.
Seriously,
do you have period?
Go to hell.
Heng.
-So he is your cousin? -Yes.
I heard he comes from a Chinese stream primary school.
Poor thing.
Now all the subjects are in English.
-How are you going to catch up? -Ketchup?
No, I don't like ketchup.
I like chili.
But for bread, chili sauce won't go.
You have to use kaya.
You can't understand simple English?
Gosh. Don't laugh at me.
Can't I be Chinese educated?
Why don't you just say helicopter?
"A helicopter…
can fly…
328km…"
How do you read this word?
Let's skip this word.
Do you all think it is funny?
I have been Chinese-educated since I was young.
I've used Mandarin to teach Mathematics for more than ten years.
Now, it is all changed to English.
Like all of you,
I am not used to it either.
But I will give myself some time to improve.
Most importantly, all of you
must learn English in order to catch up.
Mr. Wong, does that mean you cannot catch up?
Yes, I cannot catch up for now.
But you can.
You recite this.
But Mr. Wong, I am just like you.
I cannot catch up either.
There are 25 English alphabets.
-To split it while reciting-- -Wait a minute.
25 English alphabets?
Who taught you that?
There have only been 24 all along.
Do you really think I don't know?
I was just testing all of you.
There are 26, right?
Okay, Yong Xing.
Do this question.
Explain to the rest of the students in Mandarin.
That year, due to the changes in the education system,
all the subjects in school
were to be taught in English.
Let alone those who came from Chinese schools,
even teachers who use Mandarin as their first language
were not able to cope.
Other than the smart ones like Yong Xing,
all the other Chinese students struggled to adapt.
I knew how to answer that question earlier.
But it was all in English.
I didn't understand.
Look! "Learn Mandarin."
"Speak Mandarin."
But why are our textbooks all in English?
I am now very confused.
Heng.
That question just now was so easy.
Don't brag!
You would have done it if you knew.
Why are you still speaking in English?
Aren't they promoting to speak Mandarin?
The government once said,
"As Chinese, we should speak Mandarin.
Else, we would become Caucasian wannabes in the future."
Am I right?
So,
we have to speak Mandarin.
We have to talk about money!
Is it very funny?
You just spoke in a dialect.
Give me your name.
When did I?
If you don't believe me, ask them.
Where is everyone?
I didn't!
Let me go!
Phua Shun Fa.
It is a serious offense to hit an upperclassman.
I will let you off this time.
If there is a next time, the punishment will be more severe.
Do you hear me?
From May 12 to May 18, from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. daily,
the Singapore Armed Forces
will be conducting military exercises at Pulau Tekong, Tampines, Hong Kah,
Marsiling, Lim Chu Kang, Pulau Ubin, and Mandai.
Those who are involved
will fire blanks and thunder flashes.
The public is advised to stay calm.
End of news.
CBD coupon cost of three dollars will be added to your total fare.
I don't understand English.
But are you saying you are not paying?
But sir, don't you know Singaporean law?
Or have you not taken a taxi before?
If the previous passenger went to CBD and has paid for the coupon,
then you don't have to pay for it.
But you are the first to enter the district today.
If you don't pay for it, then do I?
I don't know what you are talking about.
Troublesome.
There are issues with my door.
Don't use too much force or you'll pay for it!
Hey!
Took a ride and not pay for it?
-Not paying and running? -Are you a hooligan?
Do you think I'm afraid of you?
You hit my face?
I don't understand the nonsense he said.
But this is the taxi's law, am I right?
All of us know it.
I've picked up so many passengers and have no issues.
But today, I'm unlucky to pick up a Caucasian wannabe.
So…
I've said so much, but do you understand?
You understood whatever he said.
You just looked at me, so I thought you understood.
But you don't?
-Do I have to repeat? -Yes.
-Do you understand Mandarin? -Yes.
This Caucasian wannabe got in my taxi.
He wanted to go to the city and I bought the coupon.
It's three dollars, right?
After I bought it, he said he wouldn't pay.
He left the taxi after that…
Dear, what happened?
What happened?
That fellow took my taxi and wanted to go to CBD.
He didn't want to pay the three-dollar coupon.
He even tried to hit me, so I hit him.
At the station, he was speaking in English.
He just left like that, but I still have to sign the affidavit.
Did the police explain the content to you?
You can request for it.
I told him I don't understand English.
He didn't have it in Mandarin.
Mandarin is our official language, how is it possible?
-Did you watch TV? -Why?
When you talk to the police, you can cross your leg
and tell them this.
"Before my lawyer comes, I won't answer any of your questions."
-Did you? -Really?
No, but I'll know what to do next time.
There's still next time?
What's the outcome?
Outcome? The outcome is a warning.
As long as you are fine.
We have to be a little easygoing.
NANYANG UNIVERSITY
Look! It feels comfortable to be here.
Everyone speaks Mandarin.
Those who speak English think highly of themselves.
If Singapore didn't have our generation, how would today exist?
You only speak about how noble you are.
Our old neighbors, Qiang and Shun,
are just slightly younger than you.
Just like you, they did not complete secondary school.
They learned how to repair cars and worked in a timber factory.
At night, they sold preserved plums at a night market.
They have opened a few stores now.
They are bosses of their own, and you?
Yes, those born in the '50s
are already working out there.
Singapore is now the second-largest port in the world.
Our economy is booming because of them.
And you? You only know how to talk.
What have you done?
He has done things.
Eating biscuits with black coffee,
gambling at the coffee shop,
horse betting,
and sometimes, going to sleazy bars.
Keep quiet!
You work for the government, so you speak up for them.
That goes without saying.
-And you. -What?
It's Su Xin's graduation. Why are you here? Being nosy?
I heard Nanyang University is closing down soon.
Can't I be here to reminisce about the past?
I am from Nanyang University too.
You are from Nanyang University?
More like it's difficult for you to grow.
Nanyang University?
Don't you forget.
I used to sell vegetables.
The vegetables in the school canteen were all supplied by me.
I am someone who feels guilty.
Guilty?
Do you mean nostalgic? What "guilty"?
-Sorry, I'm late. -You're here.
I couldn't get on the bus earlier.
My friend, Liang.
He sent me here.
Friend?
More like a boyfriend.
Yes, just say boyfriend.
Don't be nosy.
Su Qin, you have already grown up.
It is normal to have a partner.
Hi, everyone.
Hi, ma'am. I am Liang.
I am her sister, not her mom.
Don't be calculative.
I like those who speak Mandarin.
-Good child. Come, let's take a photo. -Let's take a photo.
-I'll help you take. -Let's do it together.
It's okay, I'll help you.
-Good child. -I'll help you.
Come, you are also one of us.
-Quick, take another one here. -Here, come.
This pavilion is very famous. Come quick for a photo.
-Go join them too. -All right.
All right.
One, two, three.
Take a few more photos.
Nanyang University is closing down.
Su Xin, you are the last batch of graduates.
The school is built on every cent we fundraised.
We even organized a fundraising event.
Now, it is closing.
The government is not closing down the school.
It's merging with the University of Singapore.
Then you are not familiar with this.
Everyone will feel upset if the government announces the closure.
But to phrase it as a merger,
people will forget as time goes on.
I even heard
that people who went for job interviews
would rather show their school certificate
than their Nanyang University certificate.
They said the certificate is useless.
Uncle, Su Xin just graduated.
Can you give her some encouragement?
Encouragement? Why don't you ask your mom to bless her
to find a job quickly?
I have to pay for your monthly bills.
Do you know how expensive ten dollars is?
There's a pond there. Let's go take photos.
-Let's go. -Pass me the camera.
Follow me.
-Dear, can you take a photo of me? -Come.
Don't worry, everything will be fine.
Actually, I want to thank everyone for making it possible
for me to be able to graduate today.
Especially Su Ting.
Thank you.
We are a family, don't say that.
Su Ting, all your hard work
will be seen by your mom from wherever she is.
I'm sure she'll bless all of you.
Don't worry.
I admire you.
You are as noble as your mom.
It's nothing.
Our generation is destined to sacrifice for the next generation.
Many older siblings do the same.
And you?
You are not young anymore.
Are you dating someone?
How would I dare to date someone?
I still need to take care of them.
Especially Huat. So mischievous.
Grow up already.
Dear students
Quickly complete your homework
Don't always think about playing soccer
And worse, still to fail
Then that's bad
Your classmates are all helpless
Failing subjects
That's bad
Your classmates are all helpless
Dear students
Quickly complete your homework
Don't think about love all day
Be aware of more than ten subjects
Every subject is doomed
Feeling helpless and full of anger
Be aware of more than ten subjects
Every subject is doomed
Feeling helpless and full of anger
Even the ants need to find food
Without effort, there's no result
If you are young, you should work harder
In the future
You'll be able to support yourself
Dear students
Learn to admit your mistakes
Or it's too late to regret it
In the future
From the beginning
You should know your mistakes
Without self-reliance, you will suffer
From the beginning
You should know your mistakes
Without self-reliance, you will suffer
Let me help you.
Sure, thank you.
It says to go to the storeroom
to bring out all the gardening tools.
A foreign big shot will be coming
to Singapore to plant trees together with the minister.
These also require official documents.
I'm sorry
for asking for your help all the time.
I really have to learn English.
Don't worry, it's effortless.
If you don't mind,
I can teach you.
Thank you.
Huat, come out and help.
Su Ting, can you help sign this?
I am busy now, give me a minute.
-Okay, then I'll sign on your behalf. -Okay.
Wait a minute. Bring it over.
Get busy. I'll help you sign.
Bring it over.
30 marks?
Did you add a zero?
You only scored three marks?
No. I didn't write the zero.
I wrote the three.
So you got a zero?
Are you out of your mind? What are you doing in school?
When the teacher was teaching, you were reading SISTERS, right?
No, I did not read SISTERS. I read Oriental Heroes.
You still read Oriental Heroes?
You!
Su Ting, the textbooks are all in English now.
I don't understand.
Huat, if you fail Mathematics,
you won't be able to get into the Science stream.
Your Mathematics is weak because your English is weak.
That's why you need to learn English.
This is what happened to me.
I'm weak in English.
With no certificate, my position is low.
If you are weak in English, go for classes.
Go until you make it.
I have just enrolled to a night class to learn English.
You should enroll too.
We can't save money on this, do you understand?
But I really don't understand English.
Then why does Heng understand?
Because Heng is my son.
Huat is not.
Light a joss stick.
-Uncle. Aunt. -Uncle. Aunt.
Uncle. Aunt.
We happened to be nearby,
so we thought of coming up to pay respect to your mom.
ANCESTORS
Why did you scold Huat?
Ask him.
He scored a zero for Mathematics and said English was the cause of it.
I asked him to study hard. He refused.
Huat, listen to Aunt.
The government wants foreigners to invest and start businesses here
so that Singapore will prosper.
If you don't learn English,
how are you going to do business with them?
The government still needs talents,
but they need elites more.
If you are an elite who is proficient in English
and works for the government,
you don't have to worry for your lifetime.
Look at Heng.
He will be an elite.
In the future, he will get…
-Presidential Armed Forces Scholarship. -Right.
He won't have to pay for his studies.
When he returns, the government will offer him
to be a high-ranking official or minister.
It's a secure job.
Huat, do you hear that?
You have to study hard and excel.
Right?
You need to be talented to study.
Look at our Heng.
He didn't go for any tutoring and I didn't teach him.
Yet he can speak fluent English.
Even the Caucasians cannot compete with him.
Hard work will help a little,
but from the way I see it, he is lazy.
It's useless.
Uncle, I will force him to study hard
and become an elite.
-Yes. -Yes.
You just don't understand.
Lazy means lazy.
Let's go. Let's not waste more time here.
Let's go.
Elite?
Lim Yong Xing.
92 marks.
Ling Chai Joo.
35 marks.
Chua Choon Lee.
64 marks.
Tan Beng Hock.
What?
-Let's skip school tomorrow. -73 marks.
-Let's go to the arcade. -Loh Hui Qing.
Tomorrow is not a holiday yet.
The next three days after exams are for self-study.
Even the teachers will be nowhere to be seen.
That's settled.
28 marks.
Phua Shun Fa.
Sir, I…
-Sir, my papers. -Lee Guang Beng.
Heng, are we really skipping school today?
Will we get caught?
Don't worry, all the teachers are busy marking the papers in school.
Who will be free to notice us missing?
Let's go.
To the arcade.
You go, I want to read comics.
Let me know if you're leaving.
Troublesome.
The electrical ping pong toy jumps
The jukebox is roaring and yelling
The teenagers began to move their hands
And the coins keep dropping in
The boss is secretly smiling in a corner
Because today's pocket is full
No one knows the excitement within
Rushing home to count the notes
What the hell?
My turn.
-Brat. -Know your limits.
Which gang are you from?
I'll queue up.
I'll treat you to this round.
-Don't mess with me. -Wait.
"Endure."
"Why endure it?"
That's right!
Go to hell!
Boss!
-Boss! -Boss!
Chase him!
Go now!
Don't ask! Let's go!
There's the police! Hurry!
Go!
We're doomed.
None of the three doors can open.
Heng, what's wrong?
I was hit by three gangsters just now.
So I grabbed a glass bottle
-and smashed it against his head. -And then?
-The bottle shattered. -It shattered?
-His head split open too? -No.
-But he has an open wound. -Open wound?
-He must be bleeding. -Of course.
Do you expect it to drool saliva?
-Then why did you pull me in? -Wait a minute.
The police are here.
What do we do now?
Listen to me.
I will count to three.
You'll run out to let the police catch you.
No, what I meant is…
You run out to distract the police and let me run.
What if I am caught?
Huat, listen to your cousin.
Your English or results are not good.
Even if you graduate and get the certificate,
it is no different from toilet paper.
Right?
I have been smart since I was young.
I have set my sights on the Presidential scholarship.
If I am caught, I will have nothing left.
You won't be happy either, right?
Right.
I will definitely be an elite in the future.
Protecting the elite is the duty of the ordinary citizens of Singapore.
Because the elites will bring you happiness.
I wasn't the one who said this. Do you agree?
Yes.
You agreed.
Are you ready?
I will count to three.
-One, three! -One…
Don't run!
Why didn't you count two?
Police!
Come in.
Sir.
Lim Yong Xing.
Is Phua Shun Fa your cousin?
Yes.
Your cousin went to the shopping center
and fought with gangsters.
Really?
He was caught by the police.
But he did not admit to fighting with them.
He said you were involved.
So before I inform your parents,
I want to find out what exactly happened.
Sir, it's okay.
Let me have a word with my cousin.
Huat, things are already at this point.
Just admit it.
As a man,
we must dare to admit our mistakes.
There's nothing to be afraid of. Right?
Admit to what?
You were the one who fought, not me.
Sir, it's him.
I wasn't even at the scene.
Sir.
I was not feeling well this morning.
I went to see a doctor.
I came back here after that.
This is my medical certificate.
I really don't know what happened.
-You went to get an MC? -Yes.
He was sick and not at the scene.
You want to accuse him?
What kind of person are you?
Sir, I have already told you many times.
The one who fought was Heng, not me.
This was what happened.
-I was reading comics in the morning… -Huat, calm down.
-Don't be rash. -I'll explain!
You sit down!
Don't be rash, I'll explain.
-Fine, you say. Make it clear. -Okay.
Sir, I'm sorry.
Let's do this.
Just take it as I am the one who did it.
You can put all the blame on me.
Punish me. I will shoulder the blame.
Shoulder the blame? What do you mean?
-It was you who fought! -Huat!
This is the principal's office. Don't be rash.
You said you'd make it clear.
Don't pretend to be the saint now. Make it clear!
You are so worked up. How can I help you?
You are putting me in trouble, do you know that?
Stop!
You dare to hit someone in front of me?
How do you expect me to believe that you didn't fight?
Sir, it's him, not me.
Your cousin is protecting you.
He even thought of sacrificing himself to shoulder the blame.
Look at how you are treating him.
Look at all these trophies.
They are all from your cousin for doing the school proud.
And you?
You will only make the school and your family embarrassed.
Let me ask you again.
Do you admit to your mistakes?
Sir.
I beg you.
Please don't expel my brother.
He fought in school the previous time,
and I have already warned him.
If there is a next time, I wouldn't hold back.
And he really did commit it again.
Sir.
Why can't you believe me?
Do you really think
that smart students
will have good conduct
and won't lie?
Do you think you are fit to talk about conduct?
You fought in school previously.
And now, you fought outside.
He even hit his cousin in front of me the other day.
I witnessed it.
Ms. Phua.
There is an issue with your brother's conduct.
He talks back to me in class.
He doesn't show any respect.
The school fought to self-handle this case
because we don't want him to have a police record.
We're already helping him.
Sir.
If the school becomes the headline in the news,
it will be embarrassing, right?
That's why the school fought for self-handling, right?
If that is the case,
we can give Huat a chance
and not expel him.
So you approached the police
and fought for self-handling
not because you want to help my brother,
but because you are afraid to be in the news.
That everyone including the Ministry of Education will know
and it will affect the school's reputation.
Ms. Phua, things are not what they seems to be.
Sir.
Can't you not expel him?
Can you give him one more chance?
There is no point begging me.
Because I am someone who goes by the book.
The principal is someone who always lives by principles.
Sir.
If you treat my brother as a hooligan and expel him,
he won't be able to study next time.
He will wander outside every day.
Yes.
You have solved the school's problem,
but you're throwing the issue back to society.
By doing so, you are running away from responsibility.
Is this your principle of education?
Is this your spirit of education?
It's enough.
Su Ting, forget it.
Sir.
I'll ask you one last question.
If I were someone who is good in studies
and can bring glory to the school,
would you still expel me?
I really cannot resign to it.
My brother was expelled just like that.
What is he going to do in the future?
Ming Hui.
Let's report it to the mass media
and let the community judge.
If you do this,
it is as good as officially taking on the school.
Even if you put the blame back on your cousin,
so what?
What will your uncle think?
You won't only offend him,
but you will also make it awkward when you both meet.
Let's go.
Why don't we meet the school's chairman?
Aren't you close with his secretary?
He books the badminton court every week.
I do know him, but it's useless.
If you look for the chairman,
he will at most ask a committee member to hear you out.
Then he will bring you to see the same principal,
and he will say the same thing again.
"I'm sorry, we can't do this."
Isn't the result still the same?
-Is it really like that? -Yes.
Furthermore,
if you make things worse,
it will be tougher to transfer Huat to another school.
Ming Hui.
Is there a system or invention
where we can complain against the Principal
without being known?
Once everyone knows about it, they can help us fight for our rights.
But the school won't know that we are the ones behind it.
This invention will create a mess in this world.
Anyone who dares to invent such things
deserves to die.
What? Facebook?
Not Facebook.
"Deserves to die."
Right, Facebook.
Why don't you go home first?
I'm going back for a meeting.
I'll think of a way again.
He won't be out of school. I'll make a move.
Su Ting!
Something happened to Su Qin!
What happened?
-Bitch! -Let me go!
Stop!
You bastard! How dare you bully my sister?
Old hag, don't insult me.
Huat, close the door.
You bastard!
Who are you calling an old hag?
Pretty lady.
Get lost! Don't you mess with me!
Falling in love is like this.
One is willing to abuse and the other, willing to bear.
I only took some money from her, and she said I am a cheater.
Didn't you tell your sister I've given you happiness?
What is wrong with some service charges?
I didn't know
that I had to pay for it.
I thought it was love.
Did you give him your virginity?
-No, I didn't. -That's good.
He snatched it.
You bastard!
Go to hell!
-I'll chop you to death! -Huat!
-No! Huat! -Huat!
-How dare you to bully her? -Huat, let go!
If you kill this good-for-nothing,
you will end up in jail.
Is it worth it?
Give me the chopper.
You are all smart.
You enter my house and take my chopper.
wanting to kill me.
-Where is justice? -You dare to talk about justice?
Let me tell the three of you.
The world outside is dangerous,
like a dragon's lair and a tiger's cave.
-I am just a-- -Beast!
That is correct, I am a beast.
-But I am also-- -A shameless person!
I am also a shameless person.
I am shameless.
But your sister is unlucky to have met me.
What does that mean?
It means your mom didn't teach you how to judge others.
Get lost!
You look pretty when you are angry.
Your mom really is useless.
She gave birth to four useless people.
Give me the chopper.
You bastard!
You dare to insult my mom?
-Say it again! -It's four against one.
There's no morality.
-Su Ting. -You are good at dodging.
Let me tell you. You bullied my sister.
Let me chop you once.
Now, there are four of us here.
The door is shut.
You cannot run away.
Just once.
Su Ting!
-Don't run! -Su Ting!
-You people are too much!
-Don't you dare to forget! -Don't run!
-Slowly. -Su Ting!
-Su Ting, are you okay? -Su Ting.
Su Ting.
Is it painful?
No.
Su Ting.
I know your heart hurts more.
I am not hurt.
I'm sorry.
I can't do much for all of you.
One is accused and got expelled from school.
The other got cheated in love and money.
If Mom were to know,
she would be disappointed in me.
I'm sorry.
But…
So long as I am still alive,
I won't allow anyone to bully all of you.
Go and rest now.
I can apply the medicine on my own.
Go.
I am fine.
Go.
Go now.
Go on.
Next time, if Mom is not around,
take care of your siblings.
Because you are the eldest sister.
Mom.
Su Ting.
Silly child.
As the eldest sister,
you have already done well.
But,
being the eldest sister
is meant to be hard.
Don't be afraid.
Don't be upset.
Mom is here.
Don't be afraid.
Mom.
You are a good eldest sister.
No, I am not.
Yes, you are.
Mom?
Mom…
Kinship is everywhere
Just like the spring breeze Blowing through the body and mind
Su Qin got cheated.
Su Ting reported it to the police,
but the culprit is yet to be caught.
So long as the bastard is not captured,
Su Ting will not forgive herself.
After I got expelled,
Su Ting got Ming Hui to help.
Through connections, they transferred me to a neighborhood school.
But after Yong Xing's incident,
I lost interest in my studies.
When I was at the new school,
I realized all the students disliked studying and were mischievous.
It made me not feel like studying even more.
Because I no longer knew
where my future lies.
Su Ting believed that I didn't fight.
But there was nothing she could do.
She could only watch me get accused and be expelled.
To face such slandering,
she felt that for us who don't have any background,
even if we fight,
it is useless.
After the TV series, The Brothers,
there were no other dialect shows in Singapore anymore.
The relationship between Yong Xing and me
also slowly faded.
If there was such love in this world
Just like what Ming Hui said,
so long as we do our part,
try to remain silent for the other issues.
It is the only way to lead a peaceful life.
It makes me feel warm inside
YEAR 1981 OPENING OF SINGAPORE CHANGI AIRPORT
YEAR 1982 GOVERNMENT DECIDES TO BUILD MRT
YEAR 1983 CABLE CAR ACCIDENT AT SENTOSA
YEAR 1984 CONSTRUCTION OF RAFFLES CITY
YEAR 1985 PRESIDENT WEE KIM WEE SWORN IN
YEAR 1986
Will you return to Hong Kong after serving NS?
It depends on my dad.
Overall, everything is good.
Big? Rajah, is your house big?
The earlier generations lived in bigger houses in villages.
Our generation now lives in a flat.
It's so small.
It can't even compare with a village's kitchen.
Huat.
So the PC is your cousin.
Why didn't you say earlier?
Don't spout nonsense.
Minister of Environment, Dr. Ahmad Mattar
took a speedboat today to patrol
the cleaning progress of Singapore River and Kallang River
and is happy to express
that all the pollutants of the two rivers
have now been cleaned up.
As we pass by this stretch,
we no longer need to cover our noses.
The river is cleaner than before
and the clarity is up to a meter.
-End of news. -Where is your wife?
She didn't manage to take leave, so I sent my father-in-law to the clinic.
Hawker Inspector.
What happened to you?
I'm unlucky.
You were a civil servant last time.
Isn't it free? You need to pay yourself?
Nonsense.
That's bad. Let me tell you.
Hospital fees are very expensive now.
You don't know this.
It's because the British government had a free welfare system
that deflated their economy.
Don't spout nonsense.
The government is rich. Helping one person will deflate it?
Let me tell you, they are the angels and the devils.
Our government is different from the British.
They don't want the citizens to be too reliant on them.
This government
does whatever they like.
Yes, you are right. I like the sound of that.
Later, the taxi fare will be half price.
Even friends and family need to pay?
Of course.
The government didn't give it to you for free.
How can I give it for free?
Dream on.
Huat, drink this antelope cooling water
and you'll be better.
Let me see.
Is it painful?
No.
But it is so embarrassing.
Why do I need to have this written on my face?
Su Ting, why are you so superstitious
to find someone to write "tiger"?
It is useless against mumps.
He should see a doctor.
-That's right. -He has already taken medicine.
But there's no harm in trying both.
Look at the word. It is so well-written.
Don't look. Just drink it.
-Su Qin, take the dishes out. -Okay.
Su Xin, how's your work?
The usual.
I'm busy making calls every day
to arrange shipments.
Su Ting, let me tell you.
My company is doing business with a Chinese company recently.
My Mandarin is the best among my colleagues.
So my boss wants me to represent the company
to contact China.
That's great.
I believe there will be more Singaporean companies
working with China.
Your chance is here.
Who says Nanyang graduates have no future?
China is opening up now.
Nanyang graduates will be Singapore's most precious talents.
But you'll still need to master your English.
Singapore still needs English now.
I know.
Huat, come over here. Don't keep looking at your face.
Where's Uncle? He didn't come today?
He'll come in a bit.
Why is it for our grandparent's death anniversary every year,
it has to be done by you?
Uncle is the eldest son, but he only knows to come here to eat.
Our purpose is to pay respect to our grandparents
to bless the whole family.
Don't ask too much.
You are getting out of hand.
Uncle, the joss sticks are lit, it's here.
ANCESTORS
The kids don't want to return for dinner, and you didn't say anything.
As their mom, you should have scolded them.
The death anniversary is an important day.
They're getting more disrespectful.
Where's Ah Xi?
Rani's dad fell down yesterday.
Both of them are taking care of her dad.
One person fell but two people need to take care of him?
His wife's dad is his dad.
But his own dad is not his dad?
Forget it, it's just a small matter.
Next time, you should prepare more dishes.
How would our grandparents be full with five dishes and one soup?
Heng is here.
Dad. Mom.
Why? Avoiding me?
Don't dare to sit with me?
You didn't tell me you applied and were awarded the Presidential scholarship.
How long do you intend to hide from me? Tell me.
Dad.
Shut up, don't say it.
I already told you earlier.
Heng's results are good.
The school recommended him.
He can reject it.
Now that he has taken the scholarship,
he has to work for the government.
If the government has him eat shit, he has to eat shit.
If they want him to die, he has to jump down.
Why are you so crude?
If he wasn't capable,
he wouldn't have gotten this scholarship.
He is not your biological son. Why are you speaking up for him?
Weird.
You always tell me to treat him as my own son.
He has gotten the scholarship.
Are you ashamed?
I feel very ashamed now.
After he has taken the scholarship,
he will become a regular soldier.
When he retires and removes the army uniform,
he'll change into a white top and bottom.
This is what I feel ashamed about.
They must be out of their mind.
All the talk about eugenics theory in previous years
is all rubbish.
A smart father will give birth to a smart child?
I am so smart, but I have a son whose brain is full of grass.
Look at his hair. It's all grass, green in color.
Mom, I'm full.
Then…
I said a few words and you're not eating already?
If it wasn't for me who paid for your studies,
you would be like Huat,
doing vocational studies and can only be a carpenter.
Uncle, there are some things you don't know.
I do vocational studies and can only be a carpenter
because of Heng.
He should have been the one who was expelled. Did you know?
I really didn't know.
Is this a TV drama?
How dramatic.
Su Ting.
Your brother can never say anything decent.
He'd better not talk nonsense.
Just because I promised your mom to take care of you
doesn't mean you can disrespect me.
Once I get angry, I won't pay for your electrical and water bills.
Then you'll have nothing to drink. Drink your own pee.
Ten dollars a month is still money.
You help us with our bills every month,
but you keep coming to our place to eat.
You even ate our crackers.
Don't say anymore, enough.
Taking advantage of us is more expensive than the bills.
Enough, don't say it anymore. So disrespectful.
Where are your manners?
I said one sentence and you rebut it with three.
Why? Not eating anymore?
What's the big deal?
You think I can't finish all the food or I can't eat without you?
Let's eat.
This roast pork is not bad. Eat.
Just eat, stop looking around.
Are you unhappy because of your uncle?
You have to master your English
and register as a private candidate.
Once you pass, there'll be a chance to get a better job.
Stop reminding him.
Just endure it. We will be out of the army soon.
Is this the Raffles Hotel?
The place has a rich history.
Yes, country bumpkin. Let's go, quick!
What are you bringing me to watch?
Watch a performance by young Singaporean songwriters and singers.
Do you mean xinyao?
How did you know?
I like that song.
"Water Encounter." It's nice.
-"Water Encounter"? -Yes, "Water Encounter."
You mean "Chance Encounter"?
So it's "Chance Encounter."
Then is Mao Ji Xian performing today?
Mao Ji Xian? Who?
Eric Moo.
Eric Moo!
It's not him, they are all new talents.
Be quick. We'll be late.
Let's go.
Thank you Rainbow Group for their great performance.
Next, we have Green Grass Group
bringing us this duet, "Chance Encounter."
Let's put our hands together to welcome them.
Hi, everyone.
Today, we'll be bringing you the song, "Chance Encounter."
Hope you'll like it.
I walk alone along the mountain road
In the evening
The setting sun seems resoundingly bleak
While softly humming
That serenely dark song
My voice reveals my melancholy
The music drifts faintly
Into the core of my heart
Pulling me towards finding
What I seek along the way
-Then a chance encounter -Then a chance encounter
-With those clear sparkling eyes -With those clear sparkling eyes
-Shakes me as though I were in a dream -Shakes me as though I were in a dream
-In that instant, it seemed as though -In that instant, it seemed as though
-Living in -Living in
-A beautiful meaningful fairytale -A beautiful meaningful fairytale
-From long ago -From long ago
-Silently staring and praying -Silently staring and praying
-Into the endless sky -Into the endless sky
-That this moment could last -That this moment could last
-For an elegant eternity -For an elegant eternity
-In that instant, it seemed as though -In that instant, it seemed as though
-Living in -Living in
-A beautiful meaningful fairytale -A beautiful meaningful fairytale
-From long ago -From long ago
-Silently staring and praying -Silently staring and praying
-Into the endless sky -Into the endless sky
-That this moment could last -That this moment could last
-For an elegant eternity -For an elegant eternity
-Silently staring and praying -Silently staring and praying
-Into the endless sky -Into the endless sky
-That this moment -That this moment
-Could last -Could last
-For an elegant eternity -For an elegant eternity
Stop dreaming.
You are still thinking about it?
Stand up.
The VIP is here.
Stand up. Put on your helmets.
What did you say?
This works too?
Look at this officer.
He has a star.
He must be well-educated.
-How do you know? -Of course.
Those who are not as well-educated like us
can only be small soldiers.
My shooting is accurate.
I'm good at taking cover.
I am also fast when booking out.
-Charge! -Charge!
What do you mean?
Didn't you hear that?
Sir, I really don't understand.
I am Hokkien Peng.
Whatever you said was too deep for me.
Private Phua.
Are you arguing with me on purpose?
How would I dare?
You are my PC.
Don't you know for the past 20 years, my English has never been good?
I heard what you told the foreign commander just now.
You said I am a Chinese Helicopter.
I am a Chinese Helicopter.
My English is weak. Don't you know that?
How was it?
I was charged seven days in the guardroom for not understanding English.
Are you happy now?
Private Phua, go upstairs and take your field pack.
When we were young
Who didn't have a dream?
Unintentionally
You revealed your dreams
On your birthday
I gave you a harmonica
It was unforgettable
To see your smile
The river of friendship slowly flows
And flows into our hearts
Just like cheering for you
At the side of the field
I carry you when you are hurt
Meteor showers appear at night
I imagine his path
The evening breeze listened
To our innumerable dreams
After many years
We met again
And we all have
A weary smile
When I asked my friend
Will you play again for me?
Will it still be the same?
The stream of time flows slowly
When it's time to leave
Pat your shoulder
Don't be too depressed, my friend
Even if the dream seems impossible
Our paths have a purpose
Success or failure
Never forget the past
YEAR 1986
SEAGATE SINGAPORE HAS REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS
YEAR 1986 COLLAPSE OF NEW WORLD HOTEL
YEAR 1987 SINGAPORE MRT OPENS
YEAR 1987 SUCCESS OF TEN YEARS RIVER CLEANUP
YEAR 1988
A rough journey and generous song
Open up the darkness lock
Others found jobs before their ROD.
And me?
After ROD for so long, I still can't find a job.
How useless.
Do just like what the Hong Kong people would say.
Ride a cow to find a horse.
Just work whatever that comes.
I can't even find a cow.
You can work at your dad's factory.
Buddy, I have always wanted to ask you.
Why do you get your Hong Kong drama tapes
earlier than the video rental shops?
Because my mom is a fan of Jade Theatre Hong Kong dramas.
She asks my Hong Kong aunts
to record the TVB dramas
and asks our cousin who is an air steward
to bring it over every Saturday.
That's why it is faster.
Buddy.
We're going to be rich!
What's the matter?
Hi.
I am Video Phua.
HANDSOME SIBLINGS 1,2,3 MY FATHER'S SON 1,2,3
Business is too good.
After calculating,
earning three to four thousand dollars a month
shouldn't be an issue.
Though we do not have any qualifications
and are Chinese educated, we can still earn so much money.
Actually, we are also elites.
We are money-earning elites.
Yes.
Thank you, buddy.
Don't thank me.
You should thank the government for prohibiting dialects
so that people will rent our Hong Kong dramas to watch.
This time, it's "hou sei."
Did you mean "ho say"?
"Hou sei" and "ho say" are different.
Go to hell.
-It's the same. -Go to hell.
Now it's ho say!
What is this?
-A fine! -Ten dollars?
A 30-dollar fine!
It's all your fault for tearing the wrong tab.
Look at this. The date and time are correct.
Just the year tab is wrong.
Yes, if we tore the date before yesterday,
then you can assume that we did it on purpose.
But this is two years later.
It must be unintentional.
Yes.
We didn't do it on purpose.
-Please give us a chance. -Do us this favor.
Hello. We are not saying that we won't be paying.
Even if we have torn the wrong tab,
we only wasted a 50-cent coupon.
You're still the one who collected the money.
You are not making any loss.
Right. Do you think we would wait until two years later
to use it again on the same month, same day, and the same time?
Are you insane? It's just a small amount.
-We are not beggars. -Right.
But I wrote it two weeks ago
through your proper channel.
I have yet to receive any reply.
Delay? Delay no more!
Delay no more!
You don't understand his English?
Department Head, come out!
Boss, I need to speak with you.
-Boss! -Listen!
Son! Why are you here?
-Mom. -What have you done?
Your mom? Why is she here?
-Department Head! -I'm sorry.
Son!
Listen to me!
I want to provide some feedback, please listen!
I am helping you!
I am helping the country and society!
Listen to me! Just ten minutes!
RUSH
Put it down.
Gang Sheng's mom is such a busybody.
You still dare to say others?
It's just a complaint.
Is it that serious?
Gang Sheng's mom told me
because she meant well.
You've always been a troublemaker.
Aren't you afraid?
But Su Ting, I am doing the right thing now.
Look.
There are things that are not right now.
Perhaps they are in high positions and are too busy,
so they don't notice it.
So it is up to me to tell them.
Once they know, it will change.
There is no reason they wouldn't change after knowing it.
Right?
So for me to tell them
is to help the country and society improve.
Just like the song, tomorrow will be better.
I am speaking the truth.
Why can't I tell the truth?
Because there are people who don't like to hear the truth.
They like to hear what they want
because those words are pleasing.
If you create trouble because of 30 dollars
and end up in jail,
how do you want me to answer to Mom?
Is it worth it?
But Su Ting, I meant well.
They don't need you to mean them well.
They have a lot of elites.
If there is any problem, the elites will solve them.
You are not an elite. You are just an ordinary person.
Do you understand?
Repeat after me.
"You are not an elite."
"You are not an elite!"
I'm going to cook now.
Tell him.
Listen to me. Let me repeat.
There are things that are not right.
They are high up and they don't know.
When I tell them, they will know and correct it.
This will help improve the development of the country and society.
I meant well.
-I can hear you. -Su Ting!
You really take my good intentions as rubbish?
-Su Ting! -Su Ting!
Instead of getting tortured by them, why don't I just kill you?
-Su Ting! -Don't run.
Let go!
Fine! I won't kill you.
I will kill myself and apologize to Mom.
-Su Ting, don't do it! -Su Ting!
Take the chopper away!
Mom passed away a long time ago.
As the eldest, I am tired. Do you know?
You are the only male in the family.
You have to help support this family.
Yes, Su Ting is already very exhausted.
I am confused now.
Since I was young,
whatever right or wrong ethics I learned in school
is all messed up by all of you.
I no longer know what is right or wrong.
Su Ting.
I really meant well.
My goodness.
No, this won't work.
This cannot go on.
Su Ting, what era is it now?
You are still doing such things?
It's so old-school.
It's so embarrassing. I'm leaving.
Don't go.
I will take my chopper out again.
Sit down.
I'm just introducing you to a girlfriend.
I'm not asking you to die.
Here she comes. Stand up.
Quick, stand up.
You are Shun Fa?
Yes.
That should be me.
Please have a seat.
Sit here.
Su Ting.
This is worse than death.
I know you are worried about me.
But even if I don't eat,
you can't ask me to eat shit, right?
Don't talk nonsense.
Put your hand down.
Shun Fa, are you afraid of me?
You can tell?
Were you thinking I was the one who was introduced to you?
Dream on.
Actually, it's my sister, Mei Ping.
She is here.
Stand up.
Let's eat. Don't wait.
The food is turning cold.
Dad. Mom.
Dad.
Happy birthday.
Promoted to Lieutenant?
That's fast.
Because you signed on as a regular in the army?
You didn't tell me when you received the scholarship.
You didn't tell me you have signed on as well.
Do you think I am dead?
Dad, signing on is a requirement for the scholarship.
This is the stipulation.
Don't tell me about any stipulations.
I am not happy that you have signed on.
I received the scholarship. Why are you unhappy?
You take their scholarship, so you have to work for them.
Working for them is like being a lackey.
What do you mean by that?
That means after your studies,
you must work for the government to come up with useless laws
to gain monetary benefits from the citizens.
Worse still, it's by unscrupulous actions.
Useless? What useless laws?
Your brother was complaining that day.
You were telling me something
about getting the citizen's money.
You and your wife complained about the government.
Maybe I remembered incorrectly.
It's you, I recall it now.
You were telling me that thing.
That thing!
-So young and already forgetful? -Dad.
Do you mean the parking coupon?
Yes, coupon!
Why do you have a coupon here?
That day, you drove my car and had a fine.
I brought it here to show you.
Do you see this?
Coupon!
There is only a need for five holes on the coupon.
They deliberately designed 73 holes. Why?
Because every hole is a trap.
Once you peel the wrong one,
they will fine you.
That's how they earn money.
Who thought of this?
It is all thought by the lackeys.
Dad, those who return from overseas
can also provide a good contribution to the country.
Contribution? My foot. Nonsense.
You only know how to talk.
Listen to me.
Return the scholarship to the government and don't study.
Dad, after the ROD, the school abroad will start.
Everything has been arranged.
It's not possible to cancel it halfway.
I don't care if you can do it or not.
Return the scholarship to the government.
Don't study.
What?
Unhappy, right?
You want to walk away again?
Yes.
He really walked away.
It's my birthday and he walked away like that.
What is this?
What an unfilial child.
How did you give birth to a child like this?
I didn't.
Happy? My ass.
There is no birthday cake. Happy?
Don't you dislike those who wear white shirts and pants?
Why did you still come?
It's five dollars for the buffet. Why can't I come?
I want to see what they are up to.
I don't understand English.
She said "donation."
You can understand, you donate.
I've already given five dollars. What is there to donate?
I thought it was free, yet they want us to donate.
Crazy.
Let's eat buffet.
-Not bad. -Queue up.
What do you mean queue? Don't worry about them.
-Zhi Wei. -Video Phua.
My girlfriend is here.
Hello.
Me too.
Here's her tape.
I heard you're not doing tape rentals anymore.
The government is clamping down on it.
Is it that serious?
Isn't that Huat?
Huat.
Why are you here?
Uncle.
What? Still angry at me?
-No. -Don't be petty.
Are the new tapes for Handsome Siblings here?
I want it in Cantonese.
A license is now needed for renting videos.
I am no longer doing it.
You quit? Then what are you doing now?
-Shun Fa. -I--
This is my friend, Gang Sheng.
We are now working in his dad's factory as carpenters.
We learn to take videos during our free time.
Not bad.
-Your girlfriend? -Yes, Mei Ping.
I heard from your aunt that she sings xinyao.
Yes.
Are you performing today?
At a later time.
Why don't you have a band?
You're a xinyao performer who plays and sings by themselves.
I'm using an accompaniment tape.
What's an accompaniment tape?
Buddy.
Karaoke is the trend now.
This is the latest equipment.
Look. Just put the tape inside.
Once played,
the graphics and lyrics will be shown.
Why would you still need a band?
Then those musicians will be out of jobs.
No choice. Got to keep up with the times.
Why don't I know these are on-trend now?
You only know how to go to sleazy bars.
How would you know karaoke is on-trend?
-Don't spout nonsense. -Dad, come over here.
Hi, everyone.
This is the latest karaoke box.
Yes.
Karaoke is on-trend in Hong Kong now.
Every night, my wife goes…
"I want, I want you"
Don't say that.
So fierce.
Do you have any new songs?
All the songs are inside. Take a look.
Exactly. The new songs are always slow in releasing.
I have to keep singing those old songs.
That's right.
Huat, I recommend you to film karaoke videos.
Though Taiwan's Your Song is good,
the new songs are released too slow.
I suggest your company be named "Fast Song."
Once new songs are released, shoot them quickly and release them.
You will monopolize the karaoke industry.
-Really? -Really.
-I will really do it. -Then do it.
Is it that easy?
You only know how to rent tapes.
It shouldn't be difficult, Uncle.
Look, the karaoke videos
are always filmed on the beach in slow motion.
They just walk up and down.
Then, they look up and pretend to be sad,
and look down as if at a funeral.
It's pretty easy.
Do it while it's still early.
My friends in this industry in Hong Kong
have all become rich overnight.
They are earning lots of money.
We can start with filming music videos.
I'll help you.
Sounds good.
You can ask your girlfriend to act.
She's so pretty.
The two of them are suitable too.
Hong Kong dramas are good. I'm sure they can act well too.
You must be kidding.
Why don't you ask me to act? I am talented in acting.
Walking up and down, looking up and down.
No dialogues, no NG cuts.
And also,
if there are kissing or hugging scenes
or scenes where I need to roll on the bed,
I will do them for free.
If you
can make me famous,
listen, I won't drive taxis anymore.
Don't talk to me about taxis.
I am full of anger.
Since the start of MRT,
there aren't many people who take taxis.
Now the road tax and oil tax add up to 7,700 dollars.
How do I make a living?
If I have a chance to meet the minister, I want to ask him.
I think a minister is here today. Who?
Tan Yong Ren?
I must ask him.
Where's everybody?
This is the government's territory. Can you not speak so loudly?
All of you are cowards.
Let's talk outside.
Once I mention the government, everyone runs away.
Cowards.
Later, when the minister is here,
I must ask him.
Do you think I don't dare to?
All residents, let us welcome our minister,
Dr. Tan Yong Ren to the scene.
Let's put our hands together.
The minister is here.
Minister!
-Minister, I have something to ask. -What are you doing?
What? Can't I talk to the minister?
Don't touch me!
Don't push me!
-What are you doing? -I have…
Minister, don't go.
I'm talking.
Can't I talk to the minister?
I'll leave.
I don't even know why he overreacted.
Isn't it good to be safe and earn money in Singapore?
Why is he up to so many tricks?
There are troublemakers everywhere.
Son, be smart.
Don't mess around here.
I know.
I just want to go near to the minister.
Damn it. They dare to push me away.
What? He really did push me.
Hush what?
Let me tell you. Every time, they talk about being close to the people.
Why don't they just go and sweep the graves?
Say one thing, but do another.
How can you believe in such a government?
Do you think they will fight for you?
Let me tell you.
Those MOE officers…
-Say louder. -No, I can't.
This is a coffee shop.
What are you scared of?
Anyway, those MOE officers
always come down to my shop to conduct spot checks.
Then they complain here and there
and threaten to penalize me.
I was very angry
and shouted back at them.
Do you know what I said? I said…
"Please. Why do you do this?"
"Why do I do this for?"
"It's for my family."
"I have to feed my family. I didn't take your money."
"If you keep making things difficult for me,
how am I going to do business?"
Hawker Inspector, they are people from your old department.
Do you still know them?
Please tell them.
-Don't disturb us. -Help him.
I don't know a single person in MOE anymore.
All the people I know are dead.
It hurts.
Hawker Inspector, what happened to you?
You wrestled with your wife?
When I was a Hawker Inspector
going after all the illegal hawkers,
do you think it was easy?
Do you think it was easy?
I always got punched.
-Your teeth are still there. -I had it fixed.
It's all because of your brother.
Yes, Ah Xi punched him once.
Did you know my whole body is in pain now?
Because of this job.
Just because I resigned before my retirement,
it has become my problem.
Goodness.
You heard it.
Ah Kun, what do you intend to do now?
Let me tell you.
We cannot trust our government.
They created our problems.
That's why I'm saying,
it's no longer their problem.
This also means our problems and their problems
are different problems.
They will not resolve our problems.
If you still have trust in them
and tell them your problems
and expect them to solve them, then you're nuts.
I only heard "wen ti."
-What is "wen ti"? -Okay.
Let me translate.
I'll translate. He said--
Tell him.
Then what are you going to do?
Do you want all of us to vote for the opposition party?
No.
I want to be the opposition party.
I want to become the opposite party.
Independent.
There is no independent party in our constituency.
What is that?
-Group Representation Constituency. -What does it mean?
GRC means,
in the election team,
there must be three candidates running for election.
If we win,
we will win three seats in the parliament.
But if you lose,
all three are finished.
The government is like that.
They make changes as they like.
They know there are not enough members of the opposition party.
They still request to have one Indian
or one Malay.
Where will the opposition party find people?
They play dirty.
They just want to win.
I…
I am unbalanced now.
Let's not talk about this.
I don't care. I am joining the election.
If I win,
I will help all Singaporeans to solve their problems.
You think I'm afraid of them?
Where's everybody?
Once they heard the word "opposition party",
they all scrambled away.
They're cowards.
Why are you still here?
I want to join you in the election to be partners.
Partners?
I am tired of driving taxis.
I want to change jobs.
If I am elected, I want to be the Minister of Transport.
Why the Minister of Transport?
A lot of people say I look like a Minister of Transport.
Can you manage? Minister of Transport?
If I am elected,
I will change all the laws.
Those who drive will have free parking.
So you want to be the Minister of Transport because of free parking?
Yes.
So after you're the Minister of Transport you still want to drive a taxi?
Yes. Wait, no.
I'll drive when I'm free.
That shouldn't be a problem, right?
Go eat shit.
It's so big.
They even have an ox.
Such a big office.
There's a future in this.
-Hello. -Hello.
Mr. Liu Shun Zhong,
we would like to join your party
to run for Gim Wang GRC.
My expectations are not high.
If I am elected, I just want to be the Minister of Transport.
I know a little Chinese.
English is limitless.
I am the opposite of you.
My Chinese is limitless, but I know a little English.
If that's the case,
we'll be figuring out what each other is saying.
May I know if both of you have university certificates?
What ticket is that?
How high is your education level?
He is asking us how high our school building is.
You guys are funny.
You're very hilarious.
I understand this time around.
He is asking us how high our education is.
Secondary four.
Secondary four?
Don't talk nonsense, is it true?
Yes, secondary four.
You see, I was until secondary two and so was he.
Two plus two equals four.
Can you say it like this?
What about secondary three?
Then three plus three equals six.
Which is also secondary school.
He seems to be happy.
Mr. Liu Shun Zhong.
In that case, can we join your party?
Look, both of us have been through hardship
and have also been bullied by the government.
So by joining your party, we will definitely fight with you.
We're not afraid of the government.
We are from Chinese schools, we have the spirit of Chinese students
and the never-say-die spirit.
But to join our party, you'll need a university degree ceritficate.
Mr. Liu Shun Zhong.
I have always looked up to you.
But I never expected
you'd support elite policies.
You cannot be led by the government.
You are the opposition party.
You must know that in Singapore,
there are many who are not as educated.
But they are elites too.
You cannot belittle them.
It's unfair to them.
I am one of them.
Mr. Liu Shun Zhong.
From the beginning,
you have been speaking in English.
Your English sucks.
And you say that you are English educated.
You are embarrassing those who are English educated.
You can continue with your English.
See if you win.
-Let's go. -Wait a minute.
Liu Shun Zhong.
Please remember what you said today.
You'll regret it.
Let's go.
Next time, I'll say when to leave.
I am the chairman.
Ah Kun.
She will go crazy.
My whole village will go crazy.
Let's be serious.
Osman, you're very famous in the Malay village.
-Yes. -The people in the market know you.
So all the ladies will vote for you.
Shamugam, you used to work as a civil servant.
If you join an opposition party today, your story will be groundbreaking.
And you are familiar with the law.
From front to back door, inside to outside.
You know it all.
And I am good at talking.
I can persuade the bird to fly from the tree to your house.
If we partner up,
we will become an iron triangle.
-That's very powerful. -It's undefeatable.
Join us as well.
Me?
Uncle, I am still young. I don't have enough experience.
Our movie is starting soon.
-We'll make a move. -Bye.
Sit down.
You're not qualified to join even if you want.
You are still young.
I only want you and Ah Hui to stand behind us
to cheer and support.
I am only needed to cheer and support?
Ah Kun, don't do this to me.
The Singapore taxi workforce is counting on me.
Can you let go?
If that's the case…
Okay, I will give you a very important task.
-Really? -You can be our spare tire.
Spare tire only?
It's very important. Look.
If something happens to any of us three,
you will be immediately substituted in.
I am only to be substituted in?
You can't say it this way. Let me ask you.
Do all taxis come with a spare tire?
Yes.
If the tire goes flat, the taxi can't move, right?
-Yes. -So is the spare tire important?
You are that spare tire.
-That important spare tire? -Yes.
I am the spare tire. Very important.
Foolish.
Hawker Inspector, how can you say that?
Do you know?
Your name, Shamugam, sounds very imposing.
Sounds like a minister.
Think about it.
But I don't look like a minister.
Never mind, let's forget about the election.
Osman, we have known each other for so long.
How can you say that? You little point me.
-It's "disappoint." -Never mind.
Let me tell you.
There are things that Singaporeans are unhappy about.
Every time our government sets a new law,
they don't wait for us.
They read it three times and it's passed.
Read it three times a day.
Morning, once. Afternoon, once.
Before work ends, read one more time.
Then the new law comes into effect.
How can they do this?
When I went to the toilet and poo,
before I even locked the door,
the new law was out already.
So comical.
Do you think it's funny?
But Singaporeans don't think it's funny.
They don't respect us.
People first,
then the government.
This is called ming zhu.
What is ming zhu?
It doesn't matter.
Very harmonious.
Perfect.
Looks like my uncle is already obsessed.
From his unhappiness with the government
and complaining about the government to officially opposing the government.
Because of his actions,
our family is put in a difficult position.
There is a struggle between truths and family relationships.
Within the 10 years of the '80s,
with the influx of foreign investment,
Singapore's economy developed rapidly.
Most of the people's living standards
became a lot better compared to the village days.
Though our living expenses have increased,
our income has also increased.
Despite this, there are still a few people
who can't keep up with the pace of national development.
But they are not neglected.
There is also a small group of people
who will only be dissatisfied with their lives.
They only oppose it for the sake of opposing it.
Unfortunately, my uncle is one of them.
From my uncle, I am thinking…
Can you solve any problems by shouting loudly?
Can you trivialize the situation by keeping silent?
Why do you want to follow others to join politics?
Politics is not something you are strong at.
-Stop arguing! -If you don't listen to me…
I won't step into this house again!
My situation now
is called the darkness before dawn.
Dad, there's a possibility that before dawn,
you are already dead in the darkness.
We must change Singapore.
We must bring back the village spirit to Singapore!
You're really here. Do you want to fight with me?
You'd better speak Mandarin.
You speak English like spewing vulgarities.
When shaking hands with the fishmongers and butchers,
never wash your hands immediately after.
This brilliant idea is from the two of us.
He contributed more.
I contributed less.
You also joined Ah Kun's party?
No.
You don't have…
what it takes to be the opposition.
What did you say?
You are a joke.
Before your passport is terminated,
escape as far away as you can.
You are surrounded.
Many policemen are outside.
Everyone, goodbye.
They can arrest me.
But there will be thousands of others like me.
COMING SOON
EVERYONE
GO GET
YOUR SACRED VOTE
SEE YOU IN THE NEXT INSTALMENT!