Analysis on Dilution of the Singaporean Spirit in Youths - Assignment Example

The following analysis and recommendation are based on my research, interviews, and investigation with regards to the issues that lead to the erosion of the spirit and faith of the Singaporean youths in their community and their government and its policies.

The most recent estimates place foreigners claiming at least 40 percent of the Singaporean labor force and more than a quarter of the 5 million residents registered in Singapore. (Chong 2010, p. 145) This phenomenon is not entirely surprising and is actually demonstrated in the experiences of countries who have adopted the same strategy – that of actively attracting immigration and pursuing foreign workers. The resulting multiculturalism and plurality in their respective societies have generated problems, especially for native citizens. The seemingly universal consequence of this phenomenon is explained by the following perceptions:

• It is believed that the influx of foreign immigrants would mean less political and economic opportunities for the native citizens;
• Immigration erodes traditions and a nation’s way of life;
• Language and other cultural artifacts are endangered;
• Immigration would lead to a lowered quality of life, low standards in education, and so forth. (Hirschman, Kasinitz and DeWind 1999, p. 394)

Most of the concerns that have been outlined above are actually valid. For instance, the sheer number of foreign residents in Singapore can hold hostage the government with regard to some policy issues by simply refraining to work. An excellent example is when a group of 100 Bangladeshi migrant workers gathered outside Singapore’s labor ministry, protesting for the release of their severance salary. (Reuters 2009) The protesters were not arrested and no further reports were made as to what the government did especially given the fact that Singapore has strict laws against this kind of activity. Writing for Temasek Review, a Singaporean, Fang Zhi Yuan (2010), questioned this development, stating: “Singaporeans will be wondering why the foreign workers are not arrested for assembly in a public area which can potentially lead to social unrest and disorder while the government and media often kick up a ruckus over a couple of locals committing the same deed.” The political consequence of having a sizable number of constituents that come from elsewhere is indeed a threatening prospect for Singaporeans. This is also true in other areas such as the economy and culture. The prevailing opinion is that this mass of foreign workers brought with them an equally sizable coterie of customs, beliefs, culture, points of view, and so forth that could potentially clash with the native’s own.

On the other hand, it is also important to underscore that some adverse reactions and perceptions towards immigration or the government’s policy to invite more foreign workers are misplaced. For instance, there is a myth about the damage to economic opportunities for Singaporeans. As Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, in his speech at the NTU Students Union Ministerial Forum last October 2010, foreign labor is crucial in the overall health of Singapore’s economy. Then, there are also misconceptions about multiculturalism. Singaporean society could benefit from it, economically, culturally, and socially because:

• Many immigrants have a strong work ethic and may even take on jobs many Singaporeans are not willing to do;
• The creative talents and traditions of different people, which often intermingle could lead to new forms; and,
• Living alongside people from different backgrounds helps broaden horizons and break down prejudices. (Teichmann 2006, p. 20)

Recommendations

            Addressing the problem that has been identified in this report could be pursued using a two-pronged approach. The first is a strategy targeted toward the aggrieved party – the Singaporean youths. As has been emphasized earlier, there are several misconceptions that have to be rectified in order to change their perspectives. In this regard, an intensive educational drive should be pursued, placing particular importance on interactions between Singaporean youths and productive foreign residents that could in reality clear out resentments, prejudices, and misunderstandings. Many young Singaporeans may be more focused on the differences that they fail to appreciate the positive effects of diversity. This, according to Kendler (2008), prevents social interactions that could lead to a more tolerant atmosphere in society. (p. 162)

            Secondly, a strategy must also be undertaken designed for the foreign residents. The government should implement certain assimilation requirements and procedures in order for them to interact, understand and adopt the culture and way of life in Singapore. We could learn from the steps taken by the United Kingdom in this regard. For example, a list of political and cultural requirements are provided in the process of immigration such as the concept of “active citizenship” wherein immigrants are expected to take an oath to the Queen, pass citizenship tests, and display knowledge of British institutions and way of life. (Somerville 2007, p. 52) Educating Singaporeans so that they could be more tolerant of plurality will not be successful if immigrants would congregate together according to their race and are close to the culture and society that they live in.

Finally, the government must take it upon itself to implement Singaporean laws and regulations fairly both for Singaporean citizens and foreign residents. The case of the Bangladeshi protesters highlighted how treatment could be different and, henceforth, aggravates further resentments from Singaporeans.