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I am 22 years old and i come from one of the younger generation that’s still being treated like kids.

I hated National Service.
but I served it with pride.
I still serve my Reservist with pride.

I don’t think it’s so funny when people joke about Singapore being a "Fine" city but I have to admit…the shirts do sell.

There are times when I agree with what this country has to do.
But it’s when I disgree that I feel this country has to know.
I respect the laws of this nation, but I still break the rules sometimes.
I want to join in the Smile campaign but really, i’m not that happy.
I want to contribute to the GDP but hey, i’m still struggling with my allowance.
I’d like to use the national anthem in the background, but i’m sure i’ll get slammed, even though i think it’s a great show of patriotism.

I make fun of scholars and gahmen representatives because I think they’re too narrow and uptight. I’m sad that when people write about their different views[in contrast to those of the government] they have to say, "I am not slamming the government". My country still thinks we are dissidents even though we really aren’t. 

I know I am young and sometimes rebellious.
and sometimes I may dream greatly about living elsewhere

But deep inside

I know. This is home.

I am Ridzuan Ashim
And I am Singaporean
So say we all.

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This is my share of the National Day meme started by Mr Brown and Mr Miyaki, inspired by the Molson beer "I am Canadian" commercial.

If you like, you can record your own version of "I am Singaporean" and post it on your blog. You can also tag it iamsingaporean and entitle it "I am Singaporean".