Bonding Singapore

Managing Ethnic Diversity

Managing Ethnic Diversity

• Building a national identity

– Multi racialism

• Equality among all races

• Favouring of certain race is prohibited by the Constitution

• 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 friendship

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