Bonding SingaporeChallenges of a multi-ethnic society

Challenges of a multi-ethnic society To manage different perceptions of different

racial groups Lack of understanding/ communications can

cause outbreaks of violence UMNO communal politics vs. PAP non-communal

politics resulting in the 1964 race riot

Challenges of a multi-ethnic society Politics between the PAP and the Federal gov

ernment in KL Communal vs. non-communal approach UMNO led an anti-PAP campaign

Portrayed PAP as anti- Malays Carried untrue articles in the Utusan Melayu Malays were angry with the PAP

Challenges of a multi-ethnic society 1964 race riots

21 July 1964, prophet Muhammad’s birthday procession

Malays were angry with the Chinese Loss of lives, damage to properties

Challenges of a multi-ethnic society Managing perceptions of different religious gr

oups 1950, Maria Hertogh riots

Custody struggle between the Dutch parents and the fostered mother, Aminah

Custody given to the Dutch parents Malay community felt that the system was unfair to the Mus

lims Curfew placed for 24 hours British and Malayan troops called in

Challenges of a multi-ethnic society Threats from external forces

Transnational terrorism can divide the people; threaten racial and religious harmony 34 JI (Jemaah Islamiyah) members arrests since 2001 Put Singaporeans on high alert against terrorism

Challenges of a multi-ethnic society Threats from external forces

Why Singapore? Open, cosmopolitan society hosting many foreign

establishments – targets to terrorists Friendly to the west

Challenges of a multi-ethnic society Threats from external forces

Response from Singapore Anti-terrorism stance Improve security, alertness Organizations voiced support to maintain ethnic harm

ony in Singapore Muslim leaders condemned the JI group of activities

Continue to ensure social cohesion

Bonding SingaporeManaging Ethnic Diversity

Managing Ethnic Diversity Building a national identity

Multi racialism Equality among all races Favouring of certain race is prohibited by the Constitu

tion Everyone is valued

Building a national Identity Common practices

Singing of the national anthem, taking the pledge, flag raising ceremony

Inculcate loyalty and national pride

Managing Ethnic Diversity

Building a national Identity Bilingualism

Use of EL as a linking language Use of MTL to impart values and cultural traditions

Managing Ethnic Diversity

Safeguarding the interest of the minority groups Minority representation

A say in the governance PCMR (Presidential Council of Minority Right)

No racial or religious group is disadvantaged

GRC (Group Representation Constituency) Ensures that minority race is represented in the parliament

Managing Ethnic Diversity

Safeguarding the interest of the minority groups Self help groups

CDAC (Chinese Development Assistance Council) SINDA (Singapore Indian Development Association)

Aid in studies of the less privilege Gives moral support Tuition classes participated by all races (interaction)

Compete with equal footing

Managing Ethnic Diversity

Developing common space Events organized by grassroots organization

PA (People’s Association) cater to the needs and interests of every S’porean Home visits/ exchange programme build respect and friends

hip

Managing Ethnic Diversity

Developing common space Opportunities offered by educational institutions

Home visits/ exchange programme build respect and friendship Enhanced interactions

CCAs Closer bonds, teamwork, respect

Managing Ethnic Diversity

Developing common space Common living space provided by public housing

1989, Ethnic integration policy ensure interaction among races

Managing Ethnic Diversity

Developing common space Activities by the IRCCs and HCs

Visits to places of worship Appreciate and develop respect

Managing Ethnic Diversity

Developing common space National Service

Shared experience Strengthen the bond among the men

Managing Ethnic Diversity

Ensure security and peace People feel safe

Importance of managing Ethnic Diversity

Ensure economic progress Inviting to foreign investors – well protected

Trade agreement with the USA, 2003

Tourists feel safe and welcomed

Importance of managing Ethnic Diversity