Embedded Files
Issue 2: Living in a Diverse Society
Inquiry Focus – Working for the good of society: Whose responsibility is it?
Why this Issue matters - This Issue invites students to begin exploring what it means to be an informed, concerned and participative citizen. Students will deepen their understanding of citizenship and governance, and learn how citizens and government play complementary roles in working for the good of society. In a complex society and world, understanding their roles as citizens will influence how they respond to various situations and issues in Singapore and the world. This will serve to develop a stronger sense of civic consciousness, enhancing the roles they play as citizens who are rooted in Singapore with a global outlook.
Chapter 5
Question 1
Extract 1
It is important to ensure the integration of Singaporeans and new citizens who have decided to take up Singapore citizenship. Successful integration helps strengthen social cohesion and a shared sense of belonging.
The table below shows the top values that Singaporeans felt were important for new citizens to embrace in order to integrate successfully:
Top Values for Integration in Singapore
Respect for Law
Tolerance
Multiculturalism
Equality
Extract 1 shows the values that are important for new citizens to demonstrate to be integrated successfully.
Question: In your opinion, why are these values important for new citizens to demonstrate to be integrated successfully? Explain your answer with reference to two reasons.
It is important for new citizens to demonstrate these values so that Singapore can remain a safe and conducive country for everyone to live in. Firstly, respect for the law is crucial because Singapore is known for its low crime rate and strict legal system. When new citizens follow the rules and regulations, they contribute to a safe and orderly society. For example, returning trays and cutlery after meals at hawker centres shows consideration for public spaces and respect for social norms. By demonstrating respect for the law, new citizens help build trust within the community, reduce the chances of conflict, and create a sense of belonging for themselves and others.
Secondly, multiculturalism and tolerance are essential for peaceful coexistence in Singapore’s diverse society. People in Singapore come from different racial and religious backgrounds, and cultural practices vary. For instance, during the Hungry Ghost Festival, burning offerings and joss sticks may affect the surroundings. By practising tolerance and respecting these traditions, new citizens help ensure that people from different backgrounds can live together harmoniously. This promotes social cohesion and also attracts skilled foreigners, who can contribute positively to Singapore’s growth and development.
Extract 2
It is important for citizens to respond to socio-cultural diversity in a sensitive manner. Citizens can also form community groups to manage socio-cultural diversity.
Extract 3
Citizens can also play their part as individuals or in groups to respond to issues arising from socio-economic diversity. Extracts 2 and 3 reflect on the role of citizens in managing socio-cultural and socio-economic diversity.
Question: Do you think that it is more important for the citizens to manage socio-cultural diversity or socio-economic diversity?
Firstly, citizens play a crucial role in managing socio-cultural diversity. For instance, they can organise themselves into community groups such as Welcome In My Backyard (WIMBY) to raise awareness about the lives of migrant workers in Singapore. WIMBY actively promotes interactions between migrant workers and the local community. For example, they organised “An Afternoon Out”, where Bukit Batok residents bonded with migrant workers over games and conversations. By participating in such activities, citizens can develop a deeper understanding and empathy towards different socio-cultural groups. Consequently, this reduces misunderstandings and tensions, fosters mutual respect, and strengthens social cohesion within the community.
Secondly, citizens also play an important role in managing socio-economic diversity. Individuals can contribute their time, effort, and resources to support those in need. For example, Mr Nizar Mohamed Sharif founded Free Food For All (FFFA) to provide nutritious halal food to disadvantaged groups, regardless of race or religion. The charity distributes food through various channels, including ready-to-eat meals, fresh vegetables, and groceries. By engaging in such initiatives, citizens help improve the quality of life for the less fortunate, enabling them to focus on work, education, and social mobility. This demonstrates how citizens’ contributions can address socio-economic inequalities effectively.
However, it can be argued that managing socio-cultural diversity is more important than socio-economic diversity. When socio-cultural diversity is managed sensitively, it reduces conflict and promotes a sense of acceptance and belonging among different groups. Strong relationships built on understanding and empathy create a supportive environment, which in turn allows citizens to address socio-economic issues more effectively. Therefore, prioritising socio-cultural harmony provides a solid foundation for overall social cohesion, enabling citizens to work together constructively across both cultural and economic aspects of society.
Chapter 6
Question 1
Extract 1
As societies become increasingly diverse, relationships among people can become complex.
Extract 1 reflects on how Singapore is becoming an increasingly diverse society.
Question: In your opinion, what can the government do to encourage harmony in a diverse society? Explain your answer with reference to two ways.
One way the government can encourage harmony in a diverse society is by sharing cultural experiences. This helps Singaporeans to understand and appreciate the country’s diversity. For example, events such as Racial Harmony Day, National Day and International Friendship Day are celebrated in schools. Racial Harmony Day, held on 21 July, commemorates the racial riots of 1964. On this day, students wear traditional costumes and experience food and games from other cultures. This allows them to learn more about the customs and traditions of their peers. By experiencing these cultural activities, students become more tolerant and respectful of others. If people do not understand their differences, they may become hostile and suspicious, which threatens social harmony. Therefore, cultural sharing encourages people to celebrate diversity, be more accepting, and contribute to unity in society.
Another way the government can promote harmony is by educating the young to be inclusive and conscious of diversity. This can be done by making it compulsory for schools to include topics on respecting differences in subjects such as Character and Citizenship Education (CCE). For example, schools organise group activities where students of different races, religions and socio-economic backgrounds work together on projects. In my CCE lesson, I worked on an art project with a team made up of classmates from diverse backgrounds. Although we had different opinions and ideas, we focused on completing the task together. Such experiences help students look beyond race, religion, or socio-economic status and view one another as fellow Singaporeans. This strengthens teamwork, understanding, and acceptance, which are important in nurturing social harmony.
Extract 2
The influx of foreigners has seen Singaporeans divided on the country’s reliance on foreigners. While some are grateful for the support from foreign workers, others see foreigners as competitors for jobs here.
Extract 3
A lack of understanding among different socio-cultural or socio-economic groups in a diverse society can result in stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination.
Extracts 2 and 3 reflect on the negative impacts of living in a diverse society.
Question: Do you agree that the competition for resources is more challenging to manage than stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination in a socially diverse Singapore? Explain your answer.
One factor that makes living in a socially diverse Singapore challenging is the competition for resources. With the influx of foreigners, Singaporeans feel they have to compete for jobs, housing, and transport. For example, in 2019, The Independent Singapore featured an unemployed single mother who had lost her receptionist job to a foreigner. She lamented that foreigners often have an advantage because they can work longer hours, including weekends, as their families remain overseas. When Singaporeans have to compete with foreigners and are replaced by them, it can lead to unhappiness and tensions develop. If left unchecked, it can lead to tension and conflict and tear the diverse society apart.
Another factor is the problem of stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination. These occur when people judge others based on race, religion, nationality, or occupation. For instance, during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021, a nurse and his family faced harassment from neighbours who labelled them a “virus,” sprayed disinfectant on their daughter, and poured disinfectant at their doorway. Despite being on good terms with these neighbours for six years, the nurse and his family were suddenly ostracised due to prejudice against frontline workers. When negative prejudice takes the form of insensitive and hurtful remarks or discriminatory actions among Singapore residents, it can lead to tension and conflict. Eventually, if left unchecked, it can tear the diverse society apart.
While both factors threaten social harmony, stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination are more difficult to manage than competition for resources. Competition can be addressed through government measures such as fair hiring laws and policies that ensure Singaporeans are given due consideration for jobs. However, prejudice and stereotypes are rooted in mindsets and attitudes, which are intangible and harder to change. Laws can regulate behaviour, but they cannot easily correct biased beliefs. If such prejudices persist, they can deepen divisions and undermine trust in society. Therefore, managing stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination is ultimately more challenging than handling competition for resources in Singapore.
Question 2
Question 2
A photograph taken during Racial Harmony Day Celebrations in a school.
Extract 1 shows a group of students celebrating Racial Harmony Day in school to celebrate the diversity and multiculturalism in Singapore.
Question: In your opinion, how can Racial Harmony Day celebrations be made meaningful? Explain your answer using two suggestions.
Suggestion 1: Cultural immersion for students
One way to make Racial Harmony Day celebrations meaningful is to provide cultural immersion experiences for students. By exposing students to the food, clothing, language, and practices of different ethnic groups, they can gain a deeper understanding of the diversity in Singapore. For example, schools can organize food tasting sessions, outfit try-on activities, and exhibitions showcasing cultural practices. Student and teacher representatives from various ethnic groups can also serve as ambassadors, sharing their culture and answering questions from others. Students can reflect on their learning points after the activities, helping them better understand the similarities and common ground they share with others. This understanding fosters respect and acceptance, allowing students to appreciate diversity and interact more harmoniously with peers from different backgrounds.
Suggestion 2: Involving adults in the community
Another way to make Racial Harmony Day meaningful is to involve adults in the celebrations. The government and community centres can organize cultural sharing sessions and dialogues where adults learn about other ethnic groups. For example, representatives from different cultural groups can conduct talks or home visits, allowing participants to see the daily lives of people from different cultures firsthand. This approach ensures that lessons from school are reinforced in the wider society and that adults who did not go through the Singaporean education system also gain opportunities to understand and accept others. By involving both students and adults, Racial Harmony Day can have a lasting impact on the whole community, promoting understanding, respect, and harmonious interactions across different cultures.
Extract 2
In a diverse society, there are many opportunities for people from different backgrounds to interact with one another. Through these interactions, individuals can share their experiences and perspectives. Such exchanges can result in positive outcomes that benefit society.
Extract 3
One’s ethnicity is an important factor that shapes one’s identity. As such, many people feel strongly about the customs and traditions they uphold. These cultural practices may be unfamiliar to someone outside the community, which can sometimes lead to negative sentiments when misconceptions arise.
Exam-Style Question (Revised)
Extracts 2 and 3 highlight how living in a diverse society can result in both positive and negative experiences.
Question: Do you think the advantages of living in a diverse society are more significant than its disadvantages? Explain your answer with reference to relevant examples.
An advantage of living in a diverse society is the exchange and appreciation of culture. The presence of different cultural groups provides opportunities for people to learn about one another’s customs and traditions, fostering mutual respect. For example, fusion fashion like batik and Western clothing hybrids created by Ms Oniatta Effendi incorporates traditional Indonesian wax and dye techniques into contemporary designs that people of all backgrounds can appreciate. Such cultural exchanges help create common grounds that everyone can relate to, encouraging understanding and stronger relationships across communities. By appreciating elements from different cultures, people are more likely to interact harmoniously and respect one another’s cultural identities.
A disadvantage of living in a diverse society is the potential for prejudice and discrimination. Differences in cultural practices and beliefs can lead to misunderstandings or tensions when people make assumptions about others. For instance, in 2021, a local Chinese man confronted a mixed-race couple on Orchard Road, claiming that the man, who was Indian-Filipino, should only date within his own race. The incident highlighted how assumptions based on cultural differences can lead to prejudice. Such behaviour can create deep-seated mistrust and hinder social harmony, as people may focus on differences rather than shared values, causing friction in society.
Overall, the advantages of living in a diverse society outweigh the disadvantages because cultural exchange benefits everyone. While tensions may occur due to differences, these can be addressed through initiatives that promote understanding and appreciation of other cultures. When more people actively learn about and respect other cultural practices, they are less likely to hold prejudices or focus on differences that cause conflict. This allows individuals to reassess assumptions, interact harmoniously, and strengthen societal cohesion, making the benefits of diversity more significant than its challenges.
Question 3
Question 3
Extract 1
A photo of a man carrying a poster that translates to “Singaporeans can’t take it anymore!” This was taken during a Labour Day protest in Singapore, which called for tighter curbs on the influx of foreigners.
Extract 1 shows that many Singaporeans are unhappy with the number of foreigners in the country.
Question: In your opinion, why are some Singaporeans becoming increasingly unwelcoming and intolerant towards foreigners in Singapore? Explain your answer with reference to two reasons.
First reason: Competition for Resources
Many Singaporeans are becoming increasingly unwelcoming and intolerant of foreigners due to competition for resources and cultural differences. One reason is competition for resources, particularly jobs. With the influx of foreigners, the population grows, and limited resources such as employment opportunities, housing, and public transport must be shared. For example, in Singapore’s financial and technology sectors, some employers prefer hiring foreign PMETs (Professionals, Managers, Executives, and Technicians) from countries like India and China because they are willing to accept lower salaries than local workers. This creates the perception that foreigners are taking jobs away and limiting opportunities for locals to progress in their careers. Consequently, some Singaporeans may feel their livelihoods and social mobility are threatened, which makes them less welcoming towards foreigners.
Second reason: Cultural Differences
Another reason is the cultural differences between Singaporeans and foreigners. Since foreigners come from diverse backgrounds, they may hold values, beliefs, and practices that sometimes clash with local norms. For example, in 2012, a Chinese national posted on social media criticising Singaporeans for being “dogs” after a conflict over reserved MRT seats, sparking public anger. When foreigners are perceived as not adapting to Singapore’s norms, locals may view them as “outsiders” who are in the country only for work or education. Such misunderstandings often lead to resentment and reinforce the perception that foreigners are not integrating, increasing intolerance among Singaporeans.
Extract 2
Singapore’s diverse society allows people to interact with others of different races, religions, ethnicities, and nationalities. Such interactions encourage cultural exchange, as people share ideas, customs, and traditions.
Extract 3
Thermo Fisher Scientific, a multinational company, employs scientists from around the world. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it worked with the Ministry of Health, Temasek Holdings, and the Economic Development Board (EDB) to produce COVID-19 test kits and personal protective equipment.
Extracts 2 and 3 highlight some positive effects of living in a diverse society like Singapore, including cultural exchange and the sharing of skills and knowledge.
Question:
Do you agree that cultural exchange and appreciation bring about more significant benefits than the exchange of skills and knowledge in a diverse society? Explain your answer with reference to relevant examples.
Cultural Exchange and Appreciation
Cultural exchange and appreciation bring significant benefits to society. In a diverse society like Singapore, people from different backgrounds can share their ideas, customs, and traditions. For example, non-Chinese can learn about Chinese customs like the lion dance and its significance, while non-Malay individuals can learn about Malay greetings, such as kissing the back of the hands of elder family members. Such interactions can also lead to creative outcomes, like the fusion of local and foreign cultures in areas such as food, music, and fashion. For instance, acclaimed local chef Willin Low received praise for creating dishes like laksa pesto linguine, which fuses Singaporean and modern European cuisine. By being open to learning and sharing, people can better understand one another, forge meaningful relationships, and promote harmony in society.
Exchange of Skills and Knowledge
The exchange of skills and knowledge also benefits society, especially in professional and scientific fields. People from diverse backgrounds can contribute their expertise to create innovations and solutions. For example, Thermo Fisher Scientific employs scientists from around the world who collaborated during the COVID-19 pandemic to produce test kits and personal protective equipment. Similarly, overseas scientists have worked with local researchers through ASTAR joint research programmes, contributing to breakthroughs such as the H1N1 flu vaccine. Such collaboration allows new ideas to emerge, attracts businesses to invest in Singapore, and supports economic growth and overall development.
Paragraph 3 (Weighing and Conclusion)
While both cultural exchange and the sharing of skills bring benefits, cultural exchange and appreciation are more significant because it is a prerequisite for effective collaboration. Understanding and respecting others’ cultures fosters harmony and builds meaningful relationships, which are essential for people to work well together. Without cultural understanding, there would be conflicts and miscommunication, making it difficult to enjoy the full benefits of skills and knowledge exchange. Therefore, cultural exchange lays the foundation for trust, collaboration, and long-term societal cohesion, making its impact more significant in a diverse society like Singapore.
Chapter 7
Question 1
In September 2021, a survey of about 2,000 Singaporeans and permanent residents (PRs) conducted by the Institute of Policy Studies found that slightly more than half of them felt strongly that immigrants were taking jobs away from locals. They also believed that the government had spent too much money assisting immigrants.
Earlier that month, similar concerns were raised by opposition members of the Progress Singapore Party regarding the government’s foreign talent policy, which they argued had led to Singaporeans being displaced from their jobs.
Extract 1 shows that many Singaporeans and permanent residents are not welcoming towards foreign talent because they believe foreigners pose economic threats.
Question: What important messages would you share with locals to encourage them to be more accepting of foreign talent? Explain your answer with reference to two messages.
One message I would share is that the government remains committed to prioritising Singaporeans. For example, under the Fair Consideration Framework, employers submitting Employment Pass or S Pass applications must first advertise their job vacancies on MyCareersFuture, an online portal for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents. Action is taken against companies that unfairly prioritise foreigners over locals. In addition, SkillsFuture provides generous subsidies for Singaporeans to take courses and upgrade their knowledge and skills. Such initiatives help ensure that locals continue to have a fair chance in the job market and can earn a good livelihood. By showing that Singaporeans’ interests are protected, these measures reassure locals and encourage them to be more accepting of foreign talent.
Another message is that foreign talent adds value to the local workforce by sharing knowledge and expertise. This is particularly important as Singapore develops new growth areas such as digital technology and artificial intelligence. For example, attracting highly skilled professionals from regions like the United States’ Silicon Valley allows local employees to learn from their experience in leading-edge companies. Such collaboration enhances locals’ competencies and capabilities, enabling them to advance in their careers and earn higher wages. By highlighting how foreign talent helps Singaporeans develop their skills and achieve career growth, locals are more likely to view foreign workers positively and be accepting of their presence.
Extract 2
In countries like Sweden, governments adopt a government-financed approach to meet the needs of their socio-economically diverse societies. Social services are provided to all citizens equally, regardless of their socio-economic status or ability to pay.
Extract 3
In a country like Singapore, a shared-responsibility approach is adopted to meet the needs of its socio-economically diverse society. This means that the government works together with individuals, families, and community groups to ensure that the needs of Singaporeans from different socio-economic backgrounds are supported.
Extracts 2 and 3 highlight the different approaches countries adopt to meet the needs of socio-economically diverse societies.
Question Do you think a government-financed approach is more effective than a shared-responsibility approach in meeting the needs of such a society? Explain your answer with reference to relevant examples.
Government-Financed Approach – Sweden
The government-financed approach can effectively manage the needs of a socio-economically diverse society. In this approach, social services are funded by the government and provided to citizens regardless of their background or income. For example, in Sweden, citizens receive substantial subsidies and allowances to support healthcare, education, and employment. Medical services are free for residents up to the age of 23, with dental care subsidised thereafter, while education is fully funded up to the tertiary level. Additionally, the Swedish Public Employment Service provides free vocational training to unemployed individuals, helping them gain skills for industries with high demand. By providing accessible healthcare, education, and training, the government-financed approach ensures that all citizens, especially those from lower-income groups, can maintain a good quality of life and achieve social mobility.
Shared-Responsibility Approach – Singapore
The shared-responsibility approach can also meet the needs of a socio-economically diverse society while promoting sustainability. In Singapore, individuals, families, community groups, and the government work together to provide support. For example, healthcare is heavily subsidised by the government, but citizens are encouraged to save for their own needs through Medisave accounts. Additional subsidies are provided under the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) to help lower-income groups access quality care. Similarly, cash payouts like GST Vouchers and U-Save rebates support households with immediate financial needs, while training programmes such as the Workfare Skills Support scheme help low-wage workers upgrade their skills and secure better-paying jobs. This approach ensures that support is targeted to those who need it while encouraging self-reliance.
Weighing and Conclusion
While both approaches provide support, the shared-responsibility approach is more effective in the long term because it is sustainable and adaptable to demographic changes. Many countries, including Sweden and Singapore, face ageing populations and shrinking tax bases, which increase the strain on government resources. In countries with fully subsidised services like Sweden, rising demand may force unpopular measures such as higher taxes or extended retirement ages. By encouraging individuals to take responsibility for their own well-being, Singapore reduces pressure on government resources while still providing targeted help to those in need. This ensures that social services remain available and effective for all citizens, making the shared-responsibility approach better suited for meeting the needs of a socio-economically diverse society.
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