Hi editor,

I note with regret that the Public Entertainment Unit has decided to reject the application by Mr Alex Au to hold the forum, "Gays and Lesbians within Singapore 21". (Straits Times 24/5/2000).

What is more pertinent, however, are the reasons given in the report for the rejection. Firstly, it is stated, "The police cannot allow the holding of this public forum, which will advance and legitimise the cause of homosexuals in Singapore." 

The hidden assumption in this argument is that homosexuality can actually be nurtured, i.e. a heterosexual can decide that he or she would be better off being a homosexual once more forums like that are held.

Such a hidden assumption must thus be justified. I would argue that, given the current climate of intolerance towards homosexuals in Singapore, anyone who really has the choice whether or not to be a homosexual, would definitely choose to be a heterosexual. It is thus more likely that homosexuals may not have a choice.

Secondly, the Public Entertainment Unit states that, "The mainstream moral values of Singaporeans are conservative," and that "It will therefore be contrary to the public interest to grant a public-entertainment licence."

Such an assertion makes me wonder, “Who are the ones that decide on whether such forums are contrary to public interest?” If it is the majority of Singaporeans, I would like to see a survey being done to gauge “the public interest” towards this issue. Before the results are released, it would be premature to conclude that it is against the public interest.

In this aspect, holding the forum would be good for all Singaporeans as those who really think that there are very good reasons for maintaining the status quo would be able to present their views at such a forum and assess the strengths and weaknesses of their own arguments. The viewpoints of all Singaporeans should matter, no matter what their sexual orientation are.

Sincerely,
Kelvin Tan Tuan Wei