As anticipated, and reported in “Steps needed to convince S’poreans about population increase” (Jan 30), it will not be easy to convince Singaporeans about the projections in the White Paper on population, which is set to be debated next week in Parliament.

I am unsure of the time-frame that will be given for discussion and any changes before final adoption, but I know that the proposals will have wide-ranging implications on Singaporeans, especially future generations.

Our landscape, culture, social norms and way of life will undergo changes and, possibly, strains. I am sure that many of us will need convincing that there will be a high quality of living.

The National Development Minister said, in “Getting the right mix of 6.9 million people” (Jan 30), that a high quality of living is a “top priority” for the Government.

But no one person, not even Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, has 20/20 foresight.

As many of us are already uncomfortable with the status quo, the White Paper’s recommendations should not be pushed through quickly but be discussed with input from as many stakeholders as possible.

The Government should keep an open mind on the feedback and any better ideas that may be suggested.

Let us have an open and thorough debate. Whatever the outcome, we will then move forward together as a nation.