It must be such a shock for an empire which has been investing in so many countries, but has never encountered a problem like this before.

Market observers have commented that Temasek has been blundering since it took over Shin in January. Though the deal was struck with families related to then prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Temasek was little known to the Thai public. Following the investment, representatives of Temasek seemed unwilling to answer questions raised by the press. Obviously, that raised new questions about why Temasek was so secretive - and it became even more secretive when there was a probe into the nominee issue.

It was heard on the street that Temasek executives had been advised to stay silent. Indeed, a lawyer will tell you that is the best thing, and as we know from movies, anything you say could be used against you later.

Somehow, this is against Thai culture. In Thailand, it is easier for people to favour the outspoken. The louder and more often they speak, the more understanding they receive from the public.

This might not be the case in Singapore, and now Ho Ching, chairman of Temasek, may have to think about whether the organisation should remain mute - now that silence is no longer golden.

Expectations still growing

Days before the names of the new ministers are to be announced, many organisations have aired ideas about what the new government should do to improve their respective industries.

On the first day he was appointed interim prime minister, General Surayud Chulanont received a proposal from a labour organisation which asked for an increase in the minimum wage.

Then the tourism industry yesterday launched a set of suggestions on how the government should improve their sector, even though the names of the ministerial candidates have not yet been publicised.

Yesterday, the Federation of Consumer Groups Organisations also came up with a list of proposals geared towards the Energy Ministry, where Piyasvasti Amrananda is tipped to take control. The federation urged the new government to revise the private power production scheme.

It is interesting to see how many proposals are flooding the new government even before the ministers are officially announced.

It is a worry that members of the new government will not be able to satisfy everyone, as it will be in office for only a year. They are already burdened with too many expectations.

achara_d@nationgroup.com