Issue 1: Exploring Citizenship and Governance
Chapter 1
Extract 1
Each country must adopt solutions that fit its specific circumstances and priorities. However, sustainable development is not a solo mission—it is a collective goal. Citizens may hold different views on government policies, but they can provide feedback to help shape government decisions.
Extract 1
Extract 1 highlights the importance of citizens and the government working together for the good of society.
Question: In your opinion, how can citizens and the government collaborate to make informed decisions for the benefit of society in Singapore? Explain your answer with reference to two strategies.
One strategy is for Singaporeans to provide feedback and suggestions through engagement platforms such as Reaching Everyone for Active Citizenry@Home (REACH). REACH, the national feedback and engagement unit under the Ministry of Communications and Information, gathers citizens’ views on public policies and listens to their concerns. To encourage participation, REACH organises face-to-face and online engagement sessions, such as public forums, dialogue sessions, and roving “listening points.” It also uses social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp, and Facebook to reach out to Singaporeans. The feedback collected is then consolidated and shared with relevant government agencies, which allows them to make more informed decisions that reflect citizens’ needs and concerns.
Another strategy is for Singaporeans to participate in a Citizens’ Jury. This is a form of deliberative engagement that involves citizens directly in the decision-making process on issues of national importance. For example, the Ministry of Health (MOH) convened a Citizens’ Jury in 2018 as part of the War on Diabetes. Participants recommended measures such as installing more water coolers in public areas and introducing diabetes awareness campaigns in schools. MOH supported 14 out of 28 recommendations and committed to exploring others. These initiatives showed how citizen input could shape health policies, enabling the government to implement solutions that better address public concerns and benefit society as a whole.
Extract 2 (Exam Style)
When Singapore became self-governing in 1959, we needed national symbols to unite all citizens and represent Singapore to the world. Six national symbols, such as the National Anthem, National Flag, and Coat of Arms, were created to shape the Singapore identity. Over time, Singaporeans have also found new ways to represent our nation and people.
Extract 3 (Exam Style)
In January 2024, the Singapore Government Partnerships Office was set up to create more opportunities for Singaporeans to work with the Government. It helps citizens contribute by linking them with relevant agencies. This is part of efforts to empower people to take action and promote civic participation, so that building a shared future can strengthen unity.
Question: Extract 2 and Extract 3 are about how national identity and civic participation shape one’s understanding of citizenship in Singapore. Do you think national identity is more important than civic participation in influencing one’s understanding of citizenship in Singapore?
Paragraph 1 (National Identity)
A sense of national identity comes from the shared belief that we belong to the same country. Singaporeans can develop a sense of national identity through common spaces, practices, and experiences, which build belonging and emotional attachment. For example, hawker centres are seen as important common spaces that reflect Singapore’s multicultural heritage. In 2019, many Singaporeans, including those overseas, pledged their support for Singapore’s nomination of hawker culture to UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, which was officially recognised in 2020. This shows that when citizens feel a strong sense of identity and pride in their country, they are more likely to be united and feel responsible for contributing to Singapore. Hence, national identity shapes one’s understanding of citizenship by fostering belonging, which strengthens commitment to the nation.
Paragraph 2 (Civic Participation)
Civic participation refers to citizens actively taking part in public affairs to address issues that affect society. This helps citizens take ownership of problems and work together to improve the country. For example, Singaporeans can attend dialogue sessions, meet Members of Parliament, write feedback online, or participate in initiatives such as the Forward Singapore exercise launched in June 2022, where citizens shared their views on refreshing the social compact for the future. Such participation allows citizens to contribute ideas and influence decisions that shape the nation. This strengthens their sense of responsibility and involvement in public life. Therefore, civic participation shapes one’s understanding of citizenship by helping citizens realise that they have a role to play in shaping Singapore’s future.
Paragraph 3 (Weighing – National Identity is more important)
While both national identity and civic participation are important, national identity is more crucial in influencing one’s understanding of citizenship. This is because a strong sense of belonging motivates people to participate actively in civic life. Without first feeling emotionally attached to Singapore and identifying with shared values, citizens may not see the need to be involved in public affairs. For example, the pride and attachment Singaporeans feel towards hawker culture or the National Flag motivates them to step forward to protect and promote what they value. Hence, national identity is the foundation that inspires civic participation, making it more important in shaping one’s understanding of citizenship in Singapore.
Chapter 2
Extract 1
International events can have a direct impact on Singapore and its citizens. Singaporeans need to stay informed about current affairs and understand how local and global news can affect their lives. This is so that they can contribute thoughtfully to discussions and solutions on some of the issues.
Extract 1 highlights the importance of Singaporeans being aware of local and global news.
Question: In your opinion, what can be done to improve Singaporean teenagers’ awareness of current affairs?
One way to improve Singaporean teenagers’ awareness of current affairs is through schools. Schools can keep students informed about local and global news using various platforms. For example, some schools have programmes where students deliver a short news presentation to keep their peers updated on current issues. These presentations can be followed by discussions during Character and Citizenship Education (CCE), English or Social Studies lessons. School-wide presentations on current affairs regularly expose students to important developments in Singapore and beyond, while classroom discussions help them understand how these issues affect their lives. This allows students to form their own opinions and develop critical thinking skills, which raises their awareness of current affairs.
Another way is for government agencies to work with social media influencers who are popular among Singaporean teenagers. For instance, in 2018, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) engaged more than 50 social media influencers to explain the Budget to their followers. These influencers shared posts and stories about how the Budget measures affected them personally, and encouraged their followers to visit the Budget website to learn more. Other government ministries can adopt this strategy to educate young people on national issues that affect them. Since teenagers already spend a lot of time on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, influencers can present news in a way that is engaging, relatable, and easy to understand. This makes current affairs more accessible and increases teenagers’ interest in keeping up with important issues.
Extract 2
In a fast-paced and ever-changing global landscape, many unexpected events and challenges may arise. Therefore, the government needs to anticipate change and stay relevant when making decisions to ensure Singapore benefits in the long term.
Extract 3
Citizens and the government can work together to achieve positive outcomes for society. Therefore, more opportunities have been provided for people to have a say in decision-making in Singapore over the years.
Extracts 2 and 3 reflect two principles shaping governance that have contributed to Singapore’s development from a third-world to a first-world country in less than 40 years.
Question: For the continued development of Singapore, do you think it is more important for the government to uphold the principle of anticipating change and staying relevant than the principle of providing a stake for everyone, opportunities for all?
The principle of anticipating change and staying relevant involves being forward-looking and taking action early to minimise threats. For example, in 2020, the government set aside $5 billion for the Coastal and Flood Protection Fund to prepare for rising sea levels. This fund will finance long-term infrastructure projects to protect low-lying areas such as the East Coast, Punggol, Changi, and Pasir Ris, where many Singaporeans live. It will also safeguard key economic areas like Marina Bay, Tanjong Pagar, and Jurong Island, which house multinational corporations and petrochemical facilities. This shows the importance of anticipating change and staying relevant, as it prevents problems from escalating into crises that could harm both citizens’ lives and Singapore’s economy.
The principle of providing a stake for everyone, opportunities for all involves giving citizens a voice in decision-making. One example is the nationwide engagement session Forward Singapore. From 2022 to 2024, more than 10,000 citizens from all walks of life took part in dialogues and surveys on issues such as the economy and environmental sustainability. Such sessions allow the government to better understand citizens’ concerns and adjust policies accordingly. This helps to build trust in government, promotes political stability, and gives citizens a stronger sense of belonging. When citizens feel their voices are valued, they are more likely to stay rooted in Singapore, contribute to its progress, and work together for the good of society.
In my opinion, both principles are important, but providing a stake for everyone, opportunities for all is ultimately more important for Singapore’s continued development. Giving citizens a stake nurtures their sense of belonging, ensuring they remain committed to contributing their talents and skills to Singapore despite global opportunities. It also helps Singaporeans support and accept government policies, even when difficult measures are introduced to anticipate change. This strengthens trust, stability, and unity, which are critical foundations for long-term development. Hence, while anticipating change is important, providing a stake for everyone ensures that Singaporeans remain engaged and willing to work together for the nation’s future.
Chapter 3
Question 1
Extract 1
Each country must adopt solutions that fit its specific circumstances and priorities. However, sustainable development is not a solo mission — it is a collective goal. Citizens may have different views on government policies and can provide feedback to influence the government’s decisions.
Extract 1 highlights the importance of citizens and the government working together for the good of society.
Question: In your opinion, how can citizens and the government work together to make informed decisions for the good of society in Singapore? Explain your answer with reference to two strategies.
One strategy is for Singaporeans to provide feedback and suggestions through engagement platforms such as Reaching Everyone for Active Citizenry@Home (REACH). REACH is the national feedback and engagement unit under the Ministry of Communications and Information. It seeks to gather citizens’ views on public policies and listen to their concerns. To encourage participation, REACH organises both face-to-face and online engagement sessions, such as public forums, dialogue sessions, and roving feedback booths known as listening points. It also uses social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp, and Facebook to reach out to Singaporeans and collect feedback on key issues. REACH then consolidates and shares this feedback with relevant government agencies. As a result, these agencies can make more informed decisions for the good of society, based on the concerns and suggestions given by citizens.
Another strategy is for Singaporeans to take part in a Citizens’ Jury, which is a form of deliberative engagement that involves citizens in the decision-making process on significant issues. For example, in 2016, the Ministry of Health (MOH) launched the War on Diabetes campaign to help Singaporeans prevent and manage diabetes. In 2018, MOH convened a Citizens’ Jury and later announced that it would support 14 out of 28 recommendations and explore the rest. One recommendation implemented was a campaign to encourage drinking more water, which led to the installation of more water coolers in public areas. Another was a diabetes awareness campaign and curriculum for children. By considering and acting on these recommendations, the government showed how feedback from citizens could directly shape policies. This allows the government to make more informed and effective decisions that benefit society.
Question 2
Extract 1
In an international report, the Singapore Police Force was rated among the best in the world for order and security. It was also praised for being incorrupt.
Extract 1 highlights that Singapore has an effective police force.
Question: In your opinion, why do you think it is important for Singapore to have an effective police force? Explain your answer with reference to two reasons.
Reason 1: Maintaining law and order
An effective police force is important in Singapore to maintain law and order. A strong and efficient police presence helps prevent and respond to crimes, ensuring that residents feel safe in their daily lives. For example, the Singapore Police Force has implemented the Neighbourhood Police Post system, which allows officers to be stationed within communities, providing quick assistance and regular patrols. By maintaining law and order, the police help reduce crime rates and ensure that society functions smoothly. This creates a sense of security among residents, allowing them to carry out their activities without fear and contributing to a stable and orderly society.
Reason 2: Safeguarding national security and public confidence
Another reason an effective police force is crucial is to safeguard national security and public confidence. Singapore faces various security threats, including cybercrime, terrorism, and organised criminal activities. For example, the Police Cyber Defence Centre works to prevent and investigate online threats, while the Special Operations Command handles security incidents and public emergencies. By effectively managing these threats, the police not only protect citizens but also instil trust and confidence in the government’s ability to ensure safety. This encourages social cohesion and allows Singaporeans to live, work, and interact in a secure and confident environment.
Extract 2
The government addresses the needs of society by establishing structures, policies, and national programmes in a targeted manner. For example, the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) develops resources to enhance the capabilities of social service agencies (SSAs).
Extract 3
Individuals can also take the initiative to address the needs of society. Volunteers contribute their resources, knowledge, skills, and experience to help others. For instance, some volunteers teach the elderly how to stay healthy, exercise, and remain active, while others tutor underprivileged children or donate money to support community initiatives.
Extracts 2 and 3 illustrate how the government and individuals work together to address the needs of society.
Question: In your opinion, who is more important in helping to address the needs of society: individuals or the government? Explain your answer with reference to relevant examples.
Individuals’ importance
Individuals play an important role in addressing the needs of society because the government may not be able to reach everyone or provide for all needs on its own. Volunteers and philanthropists can step in to fill these gaps. For example, philanthropist Khoo Teck Puat donated a large sum of money to build Khoo Teck Puat Hospital in Yishun. Before the hospital was built, residents in the northern part of Singapore had to travel long distances to other hospitals for treatment. By providing convenient access to healthcare, Khoo Teck Puat helped meet the medical needs of residents efficiently, contributing to the social well-being of the community. When individuals take such initiatives, they complement government efforts and ensure that more citizens’ needs are addressed.
Government’s importance
The government also plays a crucial role in addressing the needs of society because it has the resources and authority to implement large-scale policies and support systems. For instance, the Housing Development Board (HDB) ensures that most Singaporeans own a home and oversees the construction of public housing to meet the needs of the growing population. Access to housing protects citizens from the elements and provides a sense of security and belonging. By addressing essential survival needs such as shelter, the government helps maintain social stability and fosters national unity, showing that citizens are valued and cared for.
Weighing and conclusion
Both individuals and the government are important in meeting societal needs, as they complement each other. While the government can provide large-scale policies and systems that benefit many, some individuals may still fall through the cracks. In such cases, volunteers and philanthropists can step in to provide targeted assistance. When the government and citizens work together, as seen in the examples of HDB and Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, the needs of everyone in society can be adequately met. This collaborative approach ensures that both widespread and individual needs are addressed, making society more inclusive and resilient.