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Maintaining Racial and Religious Harmony

Singapore is a multi-racial and multi-religious society. Therefore, racial and religious harmony is vital for Singapore’s social cohesion. This harmony does not come naturally – we need to take the effort to build trust, and acceptance between different races and religions, and protect the common space that we have.

Through our legal framework comprising laws such as the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act (MRHA) and Penal Code, as well as partnerships and engagements with various stakeholders and the community, we will continue to ensure harmony, peace and security in our multi-racial, multi-religious society.

Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) takes a strong stance against threats to Singapore’s race and religious harmony. Legislation, such as the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act, introduce powers that would allow pre-emptive action to be taken to maintain religious harmony in Singapore.

The Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act (MRHA) was enacted in 1990 to provide for powers to maintain religious harmony in Singapore.

It is based on two principles:

Followers of different religions should exercise moderation and tolerance towards each other and their beliefs, and not instigate religious enmity or hatred

Religion and politics should be kept separate

These principles remain relevant today. The MRHA was updated on 7 October 2019 to help MHA respond more effectively to incidents of religious disharmony, and strengthen our safeguards against foreign influence that threaten our religious harmony. Here are the four key amendments to the MHRA:

 Introduce Safeguards Against Foreign Influence

To safeguard our religious groups [1] against malicious foreign influence that affect religious harmony, religious groups will be required to comply with the following requirements:

Leadership Composition

Key administrative leadership positions [2]  must be held by a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident, and the majority of the governing body has to be Singapore Citizens. The requirement does not apply to spiritual leaders who are foreigners, and do not hold key administrative leadership positions. MHA will consider request for exemptions on a case-by-case basis.

[1] Religious groups include registered societies, companies, partnerships, or any other body of persons that promotes religion or religious worship, or deals with religious affairs of the practice, conduct, teaching or propagation of any religious beliefs.

[2] If the religious group is a company, the key leadership requirements will be imposed on the persons in the entity that hold positions analogous to the President, Secretary, and Treasurer, such as the Chairman, Managing Director, and Company Secretary. If a religious group is a partnership, they would be the partners of the partnership.

Donations and Foreign Affliations

Religious groups can still accept donations from foreign sources. However, there will be disclosure requirements. Single monetary donations of S$10,000 or more from foreign sources must be declared.

Donations from the following foreign sources do not need to be declared, even if it is S$10,000 or more:

• Singapore Permanent Residents;
• Foreigners residing in Singapore on valid Employment passes or Immigration Passes issued by the relevant authorities in Singapore;
• Anonymous donations received through donation boxes placed at religious sites;
• Proceeds collected during collective worship or religious rites/ceremonies;
• Non-cash donations (such as statues or ritual items); and
• Zakat and Fitrah.

Where there is foreign influence in the religious group which undermines religious harmony and is a threat to Singapore’s peace, Restraining Orders (ROs) can be issued to religious groups to stop them from receiving donations from foreign sources, or impose further leadership requirements.

Religious groups must declare any affiliations to foreign persons or organisations in a position of control or power over the local religious group. This is purely disclosure, and the RO will not be able to compel religious groups to dissociate from their foreign affiliations.

 Introduction of the Community Remedial Initiative

If someone has hurt the feelings of another religious community, the Community Remedial Initiative (CRI) allows them to make amends to the affected community and learn more about our multi-religious society.

Under the CRI, the Minister for Home Affairs may offer a person who has wounded the feelings of another religious community an opportunity to perform activities to help him better understand the affected religious community, and mend ties with them. Examples of remedial actions may include a public or private apology to the aggrieved parties, or participation in inter-religious events.

The CRI is not mandatory. The alleged offender can refuse to take up this offer, and the non-completion or refusal of the CRI will not be a criminal offence. At the same time, if the offender agrees to complete the remedial actions and does so, the Minister undertakes not to refer this case for criminal prosecution.

 Updates to the Restraining Order

With the Internet, offensive content can circulate much faster and wider. The updated Restraining Order (RO) will swiftly and effectively respond to offensive online content that might cause widespread religious disharmony.

Firstly, the scope of the RO is expanded to require the offender to remove the offensive online content.

Secondly, the 14-day notice period for the issuance of ROs is removed.

The safeguards remain unchanged. The individual on which the RO is served, and the religious group which the individual belongs to, will still be able to make representations to the Presidential Council for Religious Harmony (PCRH). The RO will still be reviewed by the PCRH, and the President will still have the powers to confirm, cancel or vary the RO.

 Consolidated Offences Related to Religious Harmony under the MRHA

Previously, both the Penal Code and the MRHA had provisions that safeguard religious harmony. With MRHA as the comprehensive act to safeguard religious harmony, the Penal Code offences that pertain to religion were consolidated under the MRHA.

The offences will cover acts that:

• Urge force or violence on the basis of religion, or against a religious group or its members;
• Incite feelings of enmity, hatred, ill-will or hostility against a religious group; and
• Insult the religion or wound the religious feelings of another person.

Download the MRHA Infographics

• Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act (PDF, 1.09MB)
• Declaring your Religious Group's Governing Body (PDF, 1.46MB)
• Declaring Donations and Foreign Affiliations (PDF, 1.19MB)

 Information on MRHA

For more information on the MRHA, read:

• Press Release: First Reading of the Maintenance of Religious Harmony (Amendment) Bill , 2 September 2019
• Second Reading of the Maintenance of Religious Harmony (Amendment) Bill – Speech by Mr K Shanmugan, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law , 7 October 2019
• Second Reading of the Maintenance of Religious Harmony (Amendment) Bill – Speech by Ms Sun Xueling, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development , 7 October 2019
• Reading of the Maintenance of Religious Harmony (Amendment) Bill, Wrap-up Speech by Mr K Shanmugan, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law , 7 October 2019
• Commencement of the Maintenance of Religious Harmony (Amendment) Act 2019 and Section 3 of the Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act 2021 , 31 October 2022

 Speeches on Race and Religion

View speeches on race and religion in Singapore:

• Regardless of Race – The Dialogue 2 – Speech by Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law , 30 September 2019
• IPS-MHA Forum on Religion, Extremism and Identity Politics – Closing Speech by Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law , 24 July 2019
• Ministerial Statement on Restricting Hate Speech to Maintain Racial and Religious Harmony in Singapore by Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law , 1 April 2019

 Surveys on Race and Religion

View surveys on race and religion in Singapore:

• IPS Working Paper No. 33 - Religion in Singapore: The Private and Public Spheres , Mar 2019
• IPS Working Paper No. 34 – Religion, Morality and Conservatism in Singapore , May 2019
• IPS Working Paper No. 35 – IPS-OnePeople.Sg Indicators of Racial and Religious Harmony: Comparing Results from 2019 and 2013 , July 2019
• CNA – IPS Survey on Race Relations , August 2016
• IPS Survey on Race, Religion and Language , 2013 – 2014

Registry of Foreign and Political Disclosures

The Registry of Foreign and Political Disclosures (RFPD) administers the new reporting requirements under the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act (MRHA). The role of RFPD is to ensure that local religious groups meet the statutory requirements and hence, safeguarding against malicious foreign influence undermining religious harmony in Singapore.  For more information on RFPD and its e-services, you may wish to visit  MHA e-Services . Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Tackling racism and racial discrimination

Response to parliamentary questions on efforts to tackle racism and racial discrimination, and efforts to strengthen racial and religious harmony in Singapore

Miss Cheng Li Hui: To ask the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) how does the Government intend to address tensions on racial insensitivities and discrimination on social media platforms; and (b) how does the Government intend to strengthen racial and religious harmony in Singapore.

Ms Carrie Tan: To ask the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) what are the current efforts to build the civic engagement sector for skilled facilitators to lead conversations in the community on sensitive topics of race and religion; (b) how are suitable and effective facilitators sourced for, identified and trained; and (c) how will the tracking, evaluation and scaling of the positive effects of these conversations on social cohesion be made within the community.

Mr Edwin Tong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth & Second Minister for Law:

• Sir, as a multiracial and multi-religious country, we do not tolerate any form of racial or religious discrimination. Racial discrimination sows discord amongst, and between, different communities, and threatens the harmony that we have worked so hard, over so many generations, to build up.
• Our multiracialism is not perfect, and there is still much that we can do to improve. Let me elaborate on our multi-pronged approach to tackle racism and racial discrimination. Enforcement and legal framework
• First, we have an enforcement and legal framework to deal with egregious cases that undermine our racial and religious harmony. Under the Penal Code, it is an offence to commit acts that deliberately wound the racial and religious feelings of any person, that promote enmity between different racial and religious groups, or that are prejudicial to the maintenance of racial and religious harmony. The Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act (MRHA), as amended in 2019, allows the Government to respond more effectively to incidents of religious disharmony, and strengthens our safeguards against foreign influence that threaten our religious harmony.
• The Government does not tolerate hate speech, and will investigate anyone who sows enmity between races. Just last year, an individual used a Twitter account to make racist remarks against people of different races. This included comments against Indians whilst making reference to a news article on foreign workers living in dorms contributing to the apparent high COVID-19 infection rate in Singapore. He was charged for offences of promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion or race under Section 298A of the Penal Code.
• In addition, under the Broadcasting Act, IMDA can direct Internet Content Providers to take down broadcasting material that glorifies, incites or endorses ethnic, racial or religious hatred, strife or intolerance, which is prohibited under the Internet Code of Practice. Encouraging respectful online behaviour
• Second, Sir, we foster social norms for respectful online behaviour and discourse. Recent events have highlighted the polarising effect of online platforms and social media, and we must guard against potential divisions. This is especially important because we can only strengthen our multiculturalism, if we treat fellow Singaporeans as partners, instead of adversaries to be confronted. To achieve this, we will require a whole-of-society partnership, with Government, Industry, and of course the Community, and each of us, collaborating.
• For example, the Media Literacy Council (MLC) promotes responsible online behaviour by working with partners to support projects by our youth promoting the shared values of respect, responsibility, empathy and integrity; and online behaviours that demonstrate safety, responsibility, and also civility.
• Social media companies also play a part in managing content hosted on their platforms, by constantly improving and enforcing their policies to remove content that promotes violence against people based on race or ethnicity. For example, Facebook has a set of Community Standards, which classifies “Hate Speech” as “objectionable content”. Twitter also has a similar set of policies on hateful conduct. And the Government works with these social media companies to promote healthy, online discourse.
• MCCY also encourages ground-up projects that promote racial and religious harmony, including those that leverage digital and online platforms. MCCY provides funding support through its Harmony Fund, and partners community organisations to organise initiatives such as the Mission:Unite Hackathon in December 2020. Encouraging conversations on R&R topics
• Third, we foster open, meaningful and responsible conversations on race and religion. That is important. These conversations bring Singaporeans together to discuss and find common ground on issues important to us as a People, and in the process, build up mutual trust and respect, and also understanding.
• To support such dialogues and civic engagements, we work with stakeholders in the public, private and people sectors to identify and equip individuals with the relevant skills, so that they can in turn create safe spaces for sensitive topics to be discussed.
• Within the public service, we have trained and developed a sizeable pool of facilitators who are able to design and lead engagements both within the public service and with the wider community. An example is the ongoing Emerging Stronger Conversations, which I’m sure many members have heard or participated in, which are mostly led by public officers across different government agencies who are trained in facilitation.
• Beyond the public service, community and religious groups also play a key role in engaging constructive discussions, clarifying doubts and misconceptions, and rallying Singaporeans around our shared values to take a stand against divisive rhetoric on racial and religious issues.
• Our religious and community leaders have amongst them, strong facilitation and convening capabilities. MCCY augments their efforts. For example in June, MCCY supported the Centre For Interfaith Understanding’s launch of a series of public workshops that aim to discover and develop and deepen interfaith facilitators’ roles, and expose them to cross-cutting issues such as interfaith marriages, economic inequality when discussing race and religion. So having other segments of society come together, discussing policies, economic policies, but having the undertone of racial and religious harmony as a backdrop.
• Last month, MCCY also launched the “Create and Connect” digital media workshops where 40 participants from religious and community organisations came together to learn from technology companies on how to impactfully engage audiences on sensitive race and religion issues, and also manage complex online discussions in a constructive manner.
• MCCY also supports community-driven dialogues that provide safe spaces and opportunities for open dialogue and mutual learning. MCCY’s BRIDGE programme was launched in 2017, and has to date supported over 120 such dialogues pertaining to race and religion. For instance, OnePeople.sg has been organising the “Regardless of Race” dialogue series since 2019, with its most recent sixth edition in April this year. These dialogues address salient issues on racial harmony, including the impact of social media on race and religious relations. Enlarging the common space
• Fourth, sir, we are committed to enlarging the common spaces in which all Singaporeans can live, work and play together, and also share in the daily-lived experiences that bind us. Singapore’s approach to maintaining our common space has created room for every community to enjoy our diverse cultural heritage, without asking any specific segment of community to give up its rich inheritances, culture and heritage. Over time, we have achieved a balance that all communities can accept, and it has allowed us to live together in peace for more than half a century. This approach remains fundamental to tackling racism and racial discrimination, and strengthening racial and religious harmony in Singapore. And I must stress that we  all have a part to play.
• MCCY also works with other Government agencies and community partners to provide opportunities for Singaporeans from diverse backgrounds to have meaningful interactions with one another. So it is not just between government and people, but also, crucially, between people to people, as well. These include events organised by arts, heritage and sports organisations, the People’s Association (PA) and the Inter-Racial and Religious Confidence Circles (IRCCs).
• We also nurture the values of respect and harmony in our students. Within the classroom, topics on multiculturalism and the importance of racial harmony are taught in subjects like Character and Citizenship Education (CCE), History and Social Studies. As part of the refreshed 2021 CCE curriculum, teachers in secondary schools and pre-university institutions will receive specialised training so that they can also facilitate conversations, discussions, dialogues, on contemporary issues, including race and religion, to hone students’ ability to understand different perspectives, and engender a sense of empathy and respect for one another.
• Through Co-Curricular Activities and other school experiences, students bond and interact with one another regardless of background. Learning journeys to cultural and heritage sites and the celebration of cultural festivals also help students to foster and develop a stronger sense of identity, learning, and also importantly, sensitivity on racial and religious issues.  Conclusion
• Sir, these are just some of the Government’s initiatives in the community and education domains to strengthen racial and religious harmony in Singapore. Racial harmony in Singapore is a constant work in progress, and our ambition is for the bonds that bind our different communities to grow from strength to strength in the common spaces that we provide. All of us have a part to play in building a united nation “regardless of race, language or religion”. Thank you, Sir.

Celebration of Racial Harmony Day in Singapore Coursework

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Introduction

Venue selection, event marketing.

The main goal of the upcoming event dedicated to the Racial Harmony Day in Singapore is to engage the public in cultural and leisure activities designed to popularize the ideas of racial equality and tolerance. This meeting is aimed at promoting humanism and brotherhood to maintain favorable relationships in society and avoid any racial conflicts. The upcoming holiday is a convenient time for such an event because, according to Frost (2020), in Singapore, issues associated with the racial division are manifested and reflected in the cultural development of the country. Chauvinistic sentiments in society are a relic, and organizing a cultural program for the population can help direct the thinking of prejudiced people in the right direction.

The key stakeholders in the event are the participants, the People’s Association, suppliers, and the media. The distribution of roles is important for building a stable event concept. The government side will provide appropriate financial support and give the necessary permits. Suppliers will provide the equipment and the elements to accompany the holiday, for instance, catering and musical design. Media resources will cover the event and publish relevant materials, and the participants will attend the holiday and purchase the desired accessories.

Since the Racial Harmony Day in Singapore is celebrated on July 21st and falls on Thursday, the entire program of the event will take three days – from Thursday to Saturday. During this period, various entertainment and educational competitions and leisure projects will be offered to the participants. According to the Singaporean Ministry of Home Affairs (2022), promoting religious equality and tolerance is an essential objective of social development. Therefore, one of the activities will be the presentation of the characteristics of different ethnic cultures living in the country. In addition, quizzes will be organized for everyone, and based on the results of the contests, the most erudite participants will receive significant and useful prizes. Given the results of the past year, the most active members of social movements for equality will be noted and rewarded. Finally, joint receptions with people of different racial minorities will be organized for the participants to get to know better the representatives of other cultures.

To select the optimal venue for the event, the number of participants and organizers involved should be thought out in advance. In addition, the possibility of hosting related services outdoors should be made, such as catering, recreation, medical services, and other sites to ensure convenience. Safety aspects are critical to follow to avoid accidents, and interaction with fire and law enforcement agencies should be part of the venue selection process. Finally, weather conditions are imperative to consider to prevent equipment damage or discomfort for all the participants engaged. Due to these factors, the optimal venue for the event is a university campus in which there are both open areas and large closed rooms in which people can also interact.

Types of Target Audience

By promoting the idea of ​​the event among the population, one can distinguish three categories of the target audience, highlighted in Table 1. The primary group includes the direct participants in the holiday programs, including representatives of the population, honorary citizens, and social activists. The secondary category consists of the providers, who will include support teams, service personnel, and other staff members. Finally, the tertiary group involves the media representatives who will be invited to cover the event process, interview, and post relevant materials on online platforms with mass access.

Table 1. Categories of the target audience.

Representatives of the population. Honorary citizens. Social activists.	Support teams. Service personnel. Staff members.	Media representatives.

Marketing Channels

With regard to marketing channels, promoting the event among the population can be carried out differently, but as the most efficient method, one can cite the use of digital resources. As Yoga et al. (2019) state, modern people receive basic information from the Internet, including data about tourism and entertainment projects. Therefore, the publication of news about the upcoming holiday on social networks is the key to the active dissemination of information among stakeholders. Another marketing channel is the involvement of traditional media, for instance, through the distribution of brochures and announcements about the future event. Such a step can also help draw attention to the holiday. Finally, direct emails to the public are a potentially powerful strategy for engaging people in the upcoming event. To do this, this is essential to segment the target audience and highlight those who actively use the Internet to ensure the widest possible involvement.

Marketing Timeline and Budget

The marketing timeline for the future event implies taking the key steps for a successful stakeholder engagement project. Over the next six months, appropriate stages will be implemented to spread the awareness of the Racial Harmony Day celebration. Within a month, negotiations with the administrators of popular online platforms will be completed to use their services and publish the necessary materials. It will take another month to prepare a base of potential participants for direct emailing. In parallel, negotiations will be held with suppliers and the media to participate in the event. The next four months will be used to publish specific materials, answer user questions, and organize all related service procedures.

The marketing budget has several major cost items and associated costs. The main costs relate to organizational nuances (equipment rental, staff fees, and other expenses). Associated costs will concern the acquisition of resources necessary for the comfort of the guests of the event, including food, drinks, prizes, and other details. This is planned that the main costs will be around $150,000, and the secondary costs will be approximately $50,000.

Event Evaluation

Event evaluation is critical to drawing appropriate conclusions about the success of the work performed and assessing potential gaps and omissions. MeetingHand Content Marketing Team (2019) identifies two main reasons that determine the significance of this procedure. They include the analysis of qualitative and quantitative data to identify the adequacy of the applied organizational strategies and the need to receive feedback from the target audience (MeetingHand Content Marketing Team, 2019). In the first case, economic, managerial, and other aspects of the work done are considered. In terms of participant feedback, the satisfaction of the parties involved is assessed to determine if the event has been valuable and important to them.

From the standpoint of specific key performance indicators to take into account, one can emphasize the sustainability of logistics, the adequacy of scheduling, and the effectiveness of marketing activities. As Chi et al. (2018) note, the perceptions of the parties involved are more important after a particular event than before because the organizers get real ratings. Thus, effective and thoughtful work to create conditions for the celebration of the Racial Harmony Day assumes the satisfaction of all interested parties at the end of the three-day holiday.

Chi, C. G. Q., Ouyang, Z., & Xu, X. (2018). Changing perceptions and reasoning process: Comparison of residents’ pre-and post-event attitudes. Annals of Tourism Research , 70 , 39-53. Web.

Frost, M. R. (2021). An unsettled majority: Immigration and the racial ‘balance’ in multicultural Singapore. Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies , 47 (16), 3729-3751. Web.

MeetingHand Content Marketing Team. (2019). How to evaluate an event . Meeting Hand. Web.

Ministry of Home Affairs. (2022). Maintaining racial and religious harmony . Web.

Yoga, I. M. S., Korry, N. P. D. P., & Yulianti, N. M. D. R. (2019). Information technology adoption on digital marketing communication channel. International Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities , 3 (2), 95-104. Web.

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IvyPanda. (2023, August 17). Celebration of Racial Harmony Day in Singapore. https://ivypanda.com/essays/celebration-of-racial-harmony-day-in-singapore/

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Bibliography

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• Apr 20, 2023

Building Bridges, Celebrating Differences: The Story of Racial Harmony in Singapore

Updated: Apr 27, 2023

Ah, Singapore! The land of hawker centres, the Merlion, and one of the world’s most Instagrammed hotel – Marina Bay Sands. But there’s more to Singapore than just its vibrant tourism industry. The country’s success is attributed to its multicultural population living in harmony with one another. How is this possible, you ask? Well, of course, Singapore’s Racial Harmony! It is part of our community, our architecture, our history and even our National Pledge.

However, this little country didn’t always have such a united population, with many disputes amongst the various races occurring over the years. In this blog, we’ll take a look at how racial harmony started in Singapore, the challenges they faced, and the efforts being put in place to maintain Racial Harmony.

The History of How Racial Harmony Started in Singapore

Singapore’s ethnic and cultural diversity can be traced back to its early days as a trading port. The city-state’s strategic location made it a hub for trade, attracting immigrants from all over the world. In the early 1800s, Chinese immigrants started coming in droves, followed by Indian and Malay immigrants in the late 1800s.

Over time, these immigrants established their own communities in Singapore, each with its own language, religion, and customs. The Chinese, for example, built their own shophouses and temples, while the Malays established kampongs (villages) and mosques. This diversity helped shape the unique multicultural identity of Singapore today.

Despite Singapore’s diversity, tensions between different ethnic groups were not uncommon. In 1964, tensions between the Malay and Chinese communities boiled over into the infamous race riots. Over four days, rioters set fire to buildings and clashed with police, resulting in 23 deaths and hundreds of injuries.

The riots served as a wake-up call for Singapore’s leaders, who realised that they needed to take action to manage ethnic and cultural tensions. How did they respond to these challenges? By implementing various policies and initiatives to promote racial harmony. One may view Singapore as a land full of laws, policies, and restrictions ( yes, there’s a lot, even I don’t remember all of them ) but they are essential in guiding the citizens into a more peaceful, united society.

Government’s Efforts in Ensuring Racial Harmony

One of the most notable policies is the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act (MHRA) , which was introduced in 1990. The MHRA aims to prevent the use of religion to incite disharmony or promoted political aims. It provides the government with legal tools to deal with any acts that threaten Singapore’s religious harmony. This act ensures that all religious groups in Singapore can worship freely, without fear of any discrimination or hostility. This policy applies to all citizens, politicians and even the President.

With the internet and social media being integrated to our daily lives, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had to update the MHRA in 2019 to ensure that religious harmony would be protected and practiced even online. There are many foreign influences online that may spread malicious rumours regarding a particular faith or race that can influence Singaporeans’ mindsets and trigger a racial dispute amongst one another. The changes made in MHRA enables MHA to respond more effectively and strengthen their safeguard against foreign malicious influence.

Have you ever heard of the Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP)? It is another policy that was introduced in 1989 to promote racial integration in public housing estates. This policy ensures that there is a balanced racial mix in HDB estates, ensuring that no ethnic group is concentrated in one area. The EIP has played a significant role in preventing racial enclaves in Singapore, promoting racial harmony, and encouraging interaction between different groups.

Back then, each ethnic group preferred staying at certain areas of Singapore. The Chinese preferred staying in Hougang and Ang Mo Kio, the Malays preferred Bedok and Tampines while the Indians preferred Naval Base and Serangoon Road. Even though the Government was able to separate the racial enclaves in 1960s and 1970s due to a massive resettlement and public housing programme, they noticed that such programmes would no longer be feasible for housing that we already developed. And hence, the EIP was implemented. (Ta-da! ) This is the main reason why each neighbourhood would have a clear mix of races, encouraging people from all walks of life to intermingle.

The government has also set up institutions to promote inter-racial understanding and harmony. For example, the Institute of Policy Studies has conducted research on inter-ethic relations in Singapore, highlighting issues that need to be addressed to promote racial harmony. The Inter-Racial and Religious Confidence Circles (IRCCs) have also been set up across the island to encourage inter-racial and inter-religious dialogue

Today, Singaporeans take pride in their multicultural identity and the racial harmony that exists in the country. But how did Singapore achieve this? The answer lies in a combination of government policies and grassroots initiatives. In addition to the EIP, the government has also implemented a range of measures to promote intercultural understanding and harmony. These include the annual Racial Harmony Day, which is celebrated in schools and workplaces, and the Community Engagement Programme, which encourages Singaporeans to volunteer in their local communities.

At the grassroots level, there are countless initiatives aimed at promoting racial harmony. These include community events, interfaith dialogues, and cultural exchange programmes. One example is the Harmony Circle, a grassroots movement that brings together individuals from different ethnic and religious backgrounds to build friendships and promote mutual understanding.

The impact of these policies and initiatives has been significant. Singapore has managed to maintain racial harmony, and its citizens have a strong sense of national identity. The EIP has ensured that public housing estates are racially integrated, preventing the formation of racial enclaves. The MHRA has ensured that all religious groups can worship freely without fear of discrimination or hostility. The IRCCs have encouraged inter-racial and inter-religious dialogue, fostering mutual understanding and respect. Overall, these policies and initiatives have helped Singapore become a multi-cultural society that celebrates diversity and promotes racial harmony.

The Various Festivals of Each Culture

Now that the more political part of this blog is done, let’s talk about how Singapore embraces each culture! Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse population compromising Chinese, Malay, Indian and other ethnic groups. This diversity is celebrated and showcased through various cultural festivals and celebrations that take place throughout the year. These festivals not only provide an opportunity for people to come together and enjoy the rich traditions and heritage of different communities but also contribute to the country’s racial harmony.

One of the most prominent festivals in Singapore is Chinese New Year, which is celebrated with much fanfare and excitement. The streets are decorated with vibrant red lanterns and banners, and families gather to enjoy sumptuous meals, exchange ang baos (red packets filled with money) and participated in lion dance performances. The festivities are not just limited to the Chinese community, and people from different backgrounds come together to join in the celebrations. Be prepared to also see red being a prominent colour during Chinese New Year as red symbolises power, celebration, fertility, prosperity, and repelling evil.

Similarly, Deepavali or the Festival of Lights, is an important festival for the Indian community in Singapore. It is a time for families to decorate their homes with lights and rangolis, exchange sweets, and enjoy traditional Indian cuisine. They would also decorate the entrance of their houses with rangoli, intended to welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and good luck. The streets of Little India come alive with colorful decorations, and people from different backgrounds join in the festivities, lighting lamps and participating cultural performances. Purple would be the prominent colour during Deepavali, as it represents wealth and grandeur according to Indian beliefs.

Hari Raya Puasa, also known as Eid al-Fitr, is a festival celebrated by the Malay community in Singapore. It marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting, and is a time for feasting and visiting family and friends. The Malay community opens their homes to welcome guests of all races, and everyone joins in the celebrations, enjoying traditional Malay cuisine and cultural performances. Throughout Ramadan, many Bazaars would be opened at various locations, selling halal street food, various house decors and clothes for the Malay to prep for Hari Raya Puasa itself. Similar to the other festivals, green would be the prominent colour, as it is a symbol of bliss, life, fertility, and beauty, according to Islamic beliefs.

Apart from these major festivals, there are many other cultural celebrations in Singapore that showcase the country’s multiculturalism. For instance, the Pongal Festival is celebrated by the Tamil community, and the Thaipusam Festival is a time for devotees to offer prayers and make offerings at the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple. The Hungry Ghost Festival is also a significant event for the Chinese Community, where they pay respect to their ancestors and perform rituals to appease the spirits. Meanwhile, the Hari Raya Haji is also celebrated by the Malay community, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) complete faith and trust in God.

What about the other common Western celebrations, like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, New Years? Of course, we celebrate them too! Singapore embraces all cultures and religions, respecting every culture’s belief to their best abilities. The streets of each of their heritage districts would be decorated with beautiful lights respectively, music from each culture would be played in shopping malls, supermarkets and more depending on the festivals and more.

What is unique about these celebrations is that they are not limited to the respective communities, and people from different backgrounds participate in them, sharing the joy and festivity. Singaporeans are proud of their diverse heritage and culture, and this is reflected in the way they come together to celebrate each other’s festivals and traditions. They showcase the richness and diversity of Singapore’s cultural heritage and contribute to the country’s reputation as a harmonious and inclusive society. So, let’s come together and celebrate the beauty of our differences!

Educating & Promoting Racial Harmony

Policies and festivities aside, what are other ways Singapore promotes racial harmony towards its citizens? That would be through education and media! Today, both education and media play a major role in educating and influencing people- both young and old. With education being readily available for each Singaporean, it is important to promote and instil a strong sense of racial harmony in each student.

Singapore’s education system emphasises multiculturalism and teaches students to respects and appreciate different cultures. Schools in Singapore celebrate the various cultural events by allowing students to dress up in their tradition costumes, performing the traditional dances and even playing traditional games during their free time. This allows each student to have a first-hand experience in learning about the traditions, history, and values of different cultures. The schools also celebrate Racial Harmony Day, which falls on 21st July of each year. In addition, schools also organise cultural exchange programs with either local or international schools where students can interact and learn from one another.

But education doesn’t just happen in the classroom. Media, too, plays a crucial role in promoting racial harmony. Singapore’s media industry is highly regulated and promotes positive images of different cultures. For example, MediaCorp, Singapore’s largest media company, produces television shows and dramas that depict the diversity of Singapore’s population. Channels specifically dedicated to each ethnic groups are also available: “Channel 8” for the Chinese, “Vasantham” for the Indians and “Suria” for the Malays. Despite being dedicated to the various groups, the shows and dramas still feature actors and actresses form different ethnic backgrounds, highlighting the richness of Singapore’s multiculturalism.

Furthermore, the media in Singapore also promotes the celebration of multicultural events. For instance, Singapore’s National Day Parade feature performances from different ethnic groups showcasing their unique cultures. The parade also features traditional costumes and music, highlighting the diversity of Singapore’s population. Overall, education and media have been effective tools in promoting racial harmony in Singapore. Through the education system and media industry, Singaporeans are exposed to different cultures and learn to appreciate and respect them. With its strong emphasis on multiculturalism, Singapore is a shining example of a country where diversity is celebrated and embraces.

What Worked for Singapore & Some Challenges

With all the efforts done to promote racial harmony, not all has been successful. There are still many challenges for Singapore to tackle, both in present day and in the future. But first, let’s talk about the successes. Like aforementioned, Singapore is a unique melting pot of cultures with Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian communities coexisting in relative harmony. This has been achieved in part through government policies that emphasise racial harmony, such as the Ethnic Integration Policy, which ensures that neighbourhoods remain racially balanced. Together with the current education system and media channels, these efforts have established a harmonious living within races, while also educating each citizen about the various cultures.

However, despite these successes, there have been challenges. Singapore has had to confront issues such as xenophobia, which can be exacerbated by economic anxiety and competition for jobs. There have also been incidents of racial and religious tension, such as the 2013 Little India Riot.

But fear not, because Singaporeans are committed to maintaining and improving racial harmony in their country. For example, the government recently launched a national conversation on race, inviting Singaporeans to share their experiences and ideas on how to strengthen social cohesion. There are also grassroots efforts such as the #BetterTogetherSG movement, which aims to foster empathy and understanding between different communities.

In Conclusion…

Hence, what can we learn from Singapore’s approach to promoting racial harmony? First and foremost, it takes a concerted effort from all members of society, from the government to individuals. It also requires ongoing dialogue and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths and issues. But ultimately, the benefits of a harmonious and diverse society are immeasurable, from the richness of a cultural exchange to the strength of social cohesion.

So, let’s keep the conversation going, Singapore! Together, we can continue to build a society that celebrates diversity and fosters understanding and empathy.

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Racial Harmony Day 2019: “The Singapore Connection”

Published Date: 22 July 2019 12:00 AM

News Press Releases

1. Racial Harmony Day (RHD) 2019 celebrates The Singapore Connection, where students reflect on the shared experiences and values that have connected us as Singaporeans. Students are also encouraged to consider how we can create a more open and inclusive culture, even as our society becomes increasingly complex.

2. Schools commemorate RHD each year by emphasising the values of respect and harmony in our interracial relations. Since its inception in 1998, RHD has promoted interracial understanding among our students, and is a key part of our National Education efforts.

School visits

3. President Halimah Yacob and MOE's political office holders joined students at the following schools to commemorate RHD today:

(Guest-of-Honour: President Halimah Yacob and Ms Low Yen Ling, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Education) At Punggol Green Primary School, students enjoyed an interactive drama performance where they sang folk songs like “My Sunny Island, Singapura”. They also engaged in a lively discussion on the importance of diverse common spaces in Singapore, topics such as kampung spirit and the racial riots, as well as their own role in promoting racial harmony. Students also experienced the recreated common spaces of an HDB void deck and a kopitiam, where they had the opportunity to participate in cultural activities such as the making of kolam and batik painting. At the end of the programme, students, together with the President, penned their vision for Singapore on lightbulb-shaped cards that were showcased in a dedicated corner in the school known as the SG Connection Garden.

(Guest-of-Honour: Mr Ong Ye Kung, Minister for Education) To provide a memorable and rich experience for students, Chua Chu Kang Secondary School enacted three wedding celebrations to showcase diverse cultural practices in Singapore. This included the sprinkling of rose water on guests and having sweet treats during Indian weddings, the tea ceremony for Chinese weddings, and the exchange of poems between the relatives of the groom and bride for Malay weddings, which Minister had participated in as well. Minister also stopped by the school’s Bicentennial Wall, a ceramic wall mural, completed by students and staff. The Bicentennial Wall symbolises how Singapore has progressed as a nation, through the contributions of its people. At the end of the programme, Minister joined students in their discussion on how common spaces could be shared among different racial groups.

(Guest-of-Honour: Ms Indranee Rajah, Second Minister for Education) Stamford Primary School students discussed the different traditions found in Singapore. They also participated in activities that illustrated how the community contributes to racial harmony. For example, P5 students viewed a showcase by Reader Theatre that shared how a community can remain united despite their differences. A group of kindergarten students also joined in the celebrations. Together with parents and community partners, students set up booths that showcased ethnic costumes, local food, and traditional games.

(Guest-of-Honour: Mr Chee Hong Tat, Senior Minister of State for Education) An interactive exhibition was set up for students at Seng Kang Secondary School for them to explore local cultural practices and ethnic games. Students were also engaged in discussions on what it means to live in multi-racial and multi-religious Singapore. As part of their Aesthetics Exposure Programme, students learned about the various music genres unique to the different racial groups in Singapore.

(Guest-of-Honour: A/P Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Education) Students at Zhonghua Secondary School enjoyed a skit by their English Language Drama and Debate Society, followed by a discussion on inclusiveness. Students also learned to appreciate cultural music and cuisines, played ethnic games, and made craft work at stations organised by the Parent Support Group. They also explored a student-curated photo exhibition that showcased diversity in Singapore.

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Commentary commentary

Commentary: Building racial harmony in Singapore must start from an early age

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If we think that racial harmony is an enduring Singapore value that we should uphold, then we need to start sensitising our children early, says Mercy Karuniah Jesuvadian.

The pre-school years are when children start asking questions about the people and things around them. (Photo: Ministry of Education)

Mercy Karuniah Jesuvadian

SINGAPORE: Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam highlighted on Thursday (Sep 21) that Singaporeans have an aspiration for race to matter less but pointed out that Singapore still needs “continuous work” to maintain multi-culturalism.

"The aspiration for race not to count is something that needs working out. It cannot just be a pledge, it cannot be just an incantation," he added.

“It requires conscious action, conscious acts of the state, which work if they are supported by people,” he said.

Indeed, in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country like Singapore, our openness to embracing diversity has been a key tenet of a meritocratic system that has allowed generations of Singaporeans to chase after their dreams.

Our warmth in welcoming those who are not like us as a cosmopolitan society has helped us stand out in a world that is increasingly inward-looking.

Imbuing these hopefully lifelong shared values into our children must start from a young age.

Indeed, perhaps it should start at the outset of a child’s education journey.

The pre-school years are a time of immense change for children. From the ages of two to seven, their cognitive capacities grow and expand. Their observational skills sharpen, their language skills improve and their ability to articulate their thoughts and feelings deepen.

At the same time, they begin to pay more attention to their surroundings and people’s perspectives. Children are by nature curious and the pre-school years enhance this trait as children interact with each other and are exposed to new social dynamics.

In fact, parents may even observe that their pre-school children ask more pointed questions about the things, people and events that they encounter and experience – many of which can be difficult to answer or even embarrassing to address.

They may question actions that have become practice as a course of habit and convenience that we take for granted, such as why we should wash our hands before a meal or challenge long-held assumptions about gender roles that mummy and daddy play.

Loved ones, parents and caregivers who spend a lot more time with a preschool child may find themselves answering questions that also probe deeper issues of diversity touching on ethnicity, class, skin colour, gender, disability and culture.

ENCOURAGE CURIOSITY AND VALUE QUESTIONS ON DIVERSITY

Social scientists have underscored the need for young children to be prepared to engage with diversity in a positive and proactive manner.

The world today is characterised by heterogeneity and the ability to build and sustain working relationships with people from different communities is a key 21st century skill. It is critical that children are able to spend time with each other in a way that is respectful and harmonious even as the world becomes more fragmented and even more deeply fractured.

A key means to developing an ability to co-exist is to first fully accept another person for who the individual is. For young children, it is essential to guide them to new understanding that differences are not deficits but that our differences make us complementary parts of a larger world context.

In situations where differences in opinion arise, children need to know how to handle dialogue in order to seek appropriate solutions to mend rifts in their understanding. Doing so encourages them to search for mutually valuable solutions while embracing differences as a positive. This way, children learn that relationships built on respect, trust and empathy form the foundation of inclusive societies that value and appreciate diversity. 

Parents are in the best place to nurture in their children a welcoming and embracing mind-set towards the differences they observe around them. 

Pre-school children still view their parents as superheroes, and are likely to mimic their parents’ speech and behaviour. When children note differences based on physical attributes like skin colour, eye shape and colour, parents should seize the chance to engage them in conversation.

Parents should try to find out why their children raised the questions they do, instead of seeking to give a quick answer to ward off more questions. In doing so, parents can be patient and open, in seeking to listen and discuss their children’s observations rather than dismissing their questions or changing the subject because the topic is difficult to handle.

A safe environment for children to discover new meaning in what they have noticed, and feel at ease to share their thoughts and feelings should also be created. Acknowledging and encouraging them to share their observations can help children build up their communication skills and sense of confidence, improving learning outcomes.

Showing appreciation for their questions and perspectives demonstrate to children first-hand the value of acceptance and diversity.

ENCOURAGE AUTHENTIC FRIENDSHIPS, ENABLE EMPATHY

Expanding one’s social vocabulary and building a capacity to make friends with people from all walks of life should start from an early age. It is in this second area that parents can help them focus on the value of acceptance when they highlight differences.

When children come back with stories about the run-ins at the playground or in school with another child from a different background, parents can steer the conversation to values, and treating others the way they themselves wish to be treated. A discussion on friendship, camaraderie and respect can be sparked.

Parents can also leverage positive experiences that their children may have with other children of different backgrounds to strengthen these same lessons. 

Once children learn to build authentic friendships with those around them, they are less likely to fixate on communal or cultural differences, but focus on their mutual trust and rapport, and an appreciation for each other’s company. They will also grow a greater capacity to deal with conflict, by seeking clarity and mutual understanding from a place of affection.

Last, empathy is a critical skill for young children to build.

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines empathy as “the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and experience of another of either the past or present”. It foregrounds the need to comprehend another’s thinking and emotional response by first accepting a person for who they are and respecting their experience of an event or phenomenon.

Empathy invites dialogue and is a stepping stone towards a healthy understanding of identity, by emphasising that there are many ways of being and doing. For children to master it however, requires it to be demonstrated and reinforced by adults and older peers that the child has frequent contact with.

Practice is also key, for children to be able to relate to anyone. A basic understanding of empathy already exists, and just needs to be built upon and extended to a conversation on diversity. For instance, children who soothe their peer when he or she falls down are already demonstrating an ability to put themselves in another’s shoes. 

To build on this, parents can get them to articulate how a character may be feeling or thinking when reading stories or watching television programmes together, for instance. This way, children cultivate a habit of understanding events and people from multiple perspectives.

As we help our children make sense of the world, perhaps we too would be reminded of Singapore’s strength in diversity and how to care for one another as an inclusive society.

After all, this is one lesson we will never stop learning.

Dr Mercy Karuniah Jesuvadian is a lecturer at the Early Childhood and Special Needs Education Academic Group at the National Institute of Education at the Nanyang Technological University.

This is the eighth commentary in Channel NewsAsia’s series on learning and education.

​Read the first commentary on whether Singapore schools should adopt digital textbooks  here .

Read the second commentary on how Singapore teachers should manage issues on race in the classroom  here .

Read the third commentary on whether our young need expensive enrichment classes  here .

Read the fourth commentary on the struggle parents face in choosing a good school for their child  here .

Read the fifth commentary on the role parents must play in their child's pre-school years  here .

Read the sixth commentary on whether passion and patience are sufficient qualities of an ideal pre-school teacher  here .

Read the seventh commentary on whether private higher education is a 'second chance' option in Singapore here . 

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Applications and Essay Online

Essay On Racial Harmony In Singapore – 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 500 words

In a diverse and multicultural society like Singapore, the concept of racial harmony plays a crucial role in fostering unity, understanding, and respect among its residents. With a population made up of different ethnic groups, such as Chinese, Malay, Indian, and others, Singapore has worked diligently to promote racial harmony and maintain social cohesion.

This blog post will explore the significance of racial harmony in Singapore and how it has been achieved through various initiatives, policies, and efforts by the government and community organizations. Through a series of essays, we will delve into the history of racial relations in Singapore, the challenges faced in promoting harmony, and the successes achieved in creating a harmonious society where diversity is celebrated.

By examining the experiences, perspectives, and contributions of different ethnic groups, we aim to shed light on the importance of embracing inclusivity, acceptance, and mutual respect in building a harmonious and cohesive society. Through these essays, we hope to inspire discussions, reflections, and actions towards promoting racial harmony not only in Singapore but also in other multicultural societies around the world.

100 words Essay On Racial Harmony In Singapore

Singapore, often hailed as a melting pot of cultures, embodies racial harmony like no other country. With a diverse population comprising of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and other ethnic groups, the nation has successfully fostered a culture of understanding, respect, and acceptance among its citizens. The government’s policy of promoting racial equality through initiatives like the Ethnic Integration Policy and the Presidential Council for Minority Rights has played a pivotal role in maintaining social cohesion. Additionally, Singaporeans celebrate various cultural festivals together, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among different racial groups. The country stands as a shining example of racial harmony and multiculturalism for the world to emulate.

150 words Essay On Racial Harmony In Singapore

Racial harmony in Singapore is a significant aspect of the country’s identity. In the Indian context, Singapore has worked towards creating a society where people of different races, including Indians, respect and understand one another’s cultural differences. The government has put in place various policies and programs, such as the Ethnic Integration Policy and racial harmony day celebrations, to promote understanding and unity among its diverse population.

Singapore has also emphasized the importance of multiculturalism in schools and workplaces, ensuring that people of all races are treated equally and given opportunities to succeed. This inclusive approach has helped to create a harmonious society where individuals of different races can live together peacefully and contribute to the country’s progress.

Overall, Singapore’s commitment to racial harmony serves as a model for other countries striving to build a united and inclusive society, where diversity is celebrated and respected.

200 words Essay On Racial Harmony In Singapore

Racial harmony in Singapore is a key aspect of its multicultural society. With a diverse population consisting of various ethnicities such as Chinese, Malay, Indian, and others, the country has made significant strides towards fostering unity and understanding among different races.

In the Indian context, the community has played a vital role in promoting racial harmony in Singapore. Indians have actively participated in cultural exchanges, interfaith dialogues, and community events that celebrate the diversity of the nation. The Indian community has also made significant contributions to the economic, social, and cultural development of Singapore, further strengthening the bonds between different ethnic groups.

The government of Singapore has implemented various policies and programs to promote racial harmony, such as the Ethnic Integration Policy, which ensures a balanced distribution of different ethnic groups in residential areas. Schools in Singapore also emphasize multicultural education, teaching students about the various ethnicities and cultures in the country.

Despite the challenges faced, Singapore has successfully maintained racial harmony through mutual respect, understanding, and acceptance among its diverse population. The Indian community in Singapore continues to play a crucial role in promoting unity and diversity, making it a shining example of racial harmony in a multicultural society.

250 words Essay On Racial Harmony In Singapore

Singapore is a shining example of racial harmony in the global context. With a diverse population made up of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and other ethnicities, Singapore has actively promoted racial harmony as a cornerstone of its nation-building efforts.

In the Indian context, Singapore stands out as a model for the successful coexistence of different racial groups. The Indian community in Singapore, comprising mainly of Tamils, Sikhs, and other ethnic groups, has played a significant role in shaping the country’s cultural landscape.

The Singaporean government has implemented various policies and initiatives to promote racial harmony, such as the Ethnic Integration Policy, which aims to prevent the formation of racial enclaves and promote interaction among different ethnic groups. The country also celebrates Racial Harmony Day annually on July 21st, where students and the public are encouraged to wear traditional ethnic costumes to foster greater understanding and appreciation of different cultures.

Furthermore, Singapore has put in place laws to criminalize racial and religious discrimination, ensuring that all individuals are treated equally regardless of their race or religion. The country also actively promotes racial integration in housing estates, schools, and workplaces to create opportunities for people of different ethnic backgrounds to interact and build relationships.

In conclusion, Singapore’s success in achieving racial harmony serves as an inspiration for other countries facing similar challenges. Through proactive policies, celebrations of diversity, and fostering a sense of national identity, Singapore has shown that it is possible for people of different races to live together in harmony and contribute to the progress and prosperity of the nation.

300 words Essay On Racial Harmony In Singapore

Racial harmony in Singapore is a key aspect of the country’s success as a multicultural society. The concept of racial harmony is deeply ingrained in the fabric of Singaporean society, with the government actively promoting racial tolerance and understanding amongst its diverse population.

Singapore, being a melting pot of different cultures, has a unique approach to fostering racial harmony. The Indian community in Singapore, which makes up a significant portion of the population, plays a crucial role in promoting intercultural understanding and cooperation. Indians in Singapore come from diverse backgrounds, including Tamil, Malayalee, Punjabi, and Gujarati communities, among others. Despite their differences, they come together to celebrate their cultural heritage while also embracing the customs and traditions of other ethnic groups.

The Indian community in Singapore actively participates in initiatives aimed at promoting racial harmony, such as the annual Racial Harmony Day, where people of all races come together to celebrate the country’s cultural diversity. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of tolerance and understanding in a multicultural society like Singapore.

The government of Singapore also plays a significant role in ensuring racial harmony in the country. Through policies such as the Ethnic Integration Policy and the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act, the government works to prevent racial segregation and promote understanding among different ethnic groups. These policies have been effective in maintaining social cohesion and preventing interethnic tensions.

Education also plays a crucial role in promoting racial harmony in Singapore. Schools in Singapore teach students about the country’s multicultural history and the importance of respecting and accepting people from different racial backgrounds. This helps instill a sense of empathy and understanding in the younger generation, ensuring that the values of racial harmony are upheld in the future.

In conclusion, racial harmony in Singapore is a result of the collective efforts of the government, communities, and individuals to promote tolerance, understanding, and respect among all racial groups. The Indian community in Singapore, with its rich cultural heritage and traditions, continues to play a vital role in fostering racial harmony and ensuring that Singapore remains a harmonious and inclusive society.

500 words Essay On Racial Harmony In Singapore

Racial harmony is a critical aspect of any multicultural society, and Singapore stands out as a shining example of successful racial harmony. It is a small island nation with a diverse population consisting of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and other ethnic groups. This racial diversity has the potential to create tensions and conflicts, but Singapore has managed to maintain peace and unity among its various racial groups through effective government policies and initiatives.

Singapore’s journey towards racial harmony can be traced back to its colonial past. During British rule, the colonial government implemented policies that segregated the different racial groups, leading to societal divisions and tensions. However, after gaining independence in 1965, Singapore’s founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, recognized the importance of racial harmony in ensuring the country’s stability and progress. He implemented a series of policies aimed at promoting racial equality and integration.

One of the key initiatives introduced by the Singapore government was the Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP), which mandated that each public housing estate should have a balanced mix of ethnicities. This policy aimed to prevent the formation of racial enclaves and promote interaction and understanding among different racial groups. As a result, Singapore’s public housing estates are now home to residents from diverse racial backgrounds, living side by side in harmony.

In addition to housing policies, the Singapore government also established institutions such as the Presidential Council for Minority Rights and the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act to safeguard the rights of minority groups and promote religious tolerance. These institutions play a crucial role in mediating conflicts and ensuring that the rights of all racial and religious groups are respected.

Furthermore, the Singapore government has invested in education as a means of promoting racial harmony. The country’s schools have a multiracial and multicultural curriculum that emphasizes the importance of racial harmony and understanding. Students are taught to appreciate and respect different cultures and traditions, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among Singapore’s youth.

The Indian community in Singapore has played a significant role in promoting racial harmony. Indians form one of the largest minority groups in Singapore and have made significant contributions to the country’s economy, culture, and society. The Indian community actively participates in intercultural events and celebrations, promoting cross-cultural understanding and cooperation.

Singapore celebrates Racial Harmony Day on 21st July every year to commemorate the 1964 racial riots and promote intercultural understanding and harmony. On this day, Singaporeans of all races and ethnicities come together to participate in various activities and events that showcase the country’s rich cultural diversity.

In conclusion, Singapore’s success in achieving racial harmony serves as a model for other multicultural societies around the world. Through a combination of government policies, education initiatives, and community engagement, Singapore has managed to build a cohesive and inclusive society where people of different races and backgrounds live together in peace and harmony. The Indian community in Singapore has played a vital role in promoting racial harmony and contributing to the country’s multicultural fabric. By celebrating diversity and embracing inclusivity, Singapore continues to be a beacon of racial harmony and unity in a globalized world.

Final Words

In conclusion, racial harmony in Singapore serves as a shining example of successful multiculturalism and diversity. The country’s commitment to promoting racial unity, religious tolerance, and social cohesion has paved the way for a harmonious society where people of different ethnicities and backgrounds live and work together peacefully. Through its policies and initiatives, Singapore has been able to build strong foundations for social integration and mutual respect among its citizens.

However, it is crucial to continue fostering intercultural understanding and celebrating diversity to ensure that racial harmony remains a cornerstone of Singaporean society. Education, community engagement, and open communication are key components in sustaining and strengthening racial unity in the country. By embracing the unique cultural identities of its various communities and promoting cross-cultural interactions, Singapore can build a more inclusive society where everyone feels a sense of belonging and acceptance.

As Singapore continues to progress and evolve, it is essential to prioritize the values of racial harmony and social cohesion to build a more vibrant and resilient nation. By working together to address issues of inequality, discrimination, and prejudice, Singapore can continue to be a beacon of multiculturalism and harmony for the rest of the world.

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NDR 2021: New law to deal with racial offences, promote harmony through softer approach

SINGAPORE - Singapore will introduce a new law on racial harmony to encourage moderation and tolerance between different racial groups, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Sunday (Aug 29).

The new Maintenance of Racial Harmony Act will consolidate all existing laws dealing with racial issues, which are currently scattered under various pieces of legislation, such as the Penal Code.

Apart from providing for punishments to deal with racial offences, the new law will also incorporate "softer and gentler touches" that focus on persuasion and rehabilitation.

For instance, it will vest the authorities with powers to order someone who has caused offence to stop and make amends by learning more about the other race.

This softer approach will help to heal hurt and mend ties between races, rather than leaving resentment in the wake of such incidents, PM Lee said.

The Prime Minister devoted a third of his National Day Rally to the topic of race and religion, noting that race relations have come under stress during the Covid-19 pandemic.

While the real solution to racism is to change attitudes, which takes time and effort, legislation can play a role, he said.

"Laws may not, by themselves, make people get along with one another or like one another," PM Lee noted. "But laws can signal what our society considers right or wrong, and nudge people over time to behave better."

He pointed to the existing Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act, which the new law will be modelled on.

The law has never been used since it came into effect in 1992. But its very existence has helped to restrain intolerance and promote religious harmony, he said.

Similarly, the new law on racial harmony will signal the "overriding importance" of this issue to Singapore society, he added.

In his speech, PM Lee made reference to several recent high-profile racist incidents, noting several of these have targeted Indians.

There are two reasons for this, he surmised. One could be the large number of Indian work pass holders in Singapore, while the other could be linked to the Delta variant of Covid-19, which first emerged in India.

But it is illogical to blame these issues on Indians and let these frustrations impact racial harmony, PM Lee said.

"Just as it is illogical to blame the Alpha variant on the English, the KTV cluster on the Vietnamese, or the initial outbreak in Wuhan on the Chinese," he added.

"We must address the real issues - manage the work pass numbers and concentrations, and improve our border health safeguards."

While these racist incidents are a reminder of the fragility of Singapore's harmony, they do not negate the country's multiracial approach which has worked well, he said, adding that racial harmony did not happen spontaneously here.

He outlined how Singapore has worked hard to achieve the current delicate balance, where people of different races and faiths live peacefully together.

Even so, racial harmony is still a work in progress and will be for a long time, PM Lee said. He noted that everyone retains racial or religious preferences, which are natural in every society.

"But sometimes, it goes beyond racial and cultural preferences to become biases and prejudices. Then it is a problem," he said.

He gave the example of job advertisements which require Chinese speakers even though it is not clear that this is a genuine job necessity. He also cited individuals who are rejected for rentals after property agents find out they are not Chinese.

People from minority groups experience these things more acutely because they are the ones most affected by such racial discrimination, PM Lee said.

"They feel angry, hurt, disappointed that the words in our National Pledge are still an aspiration, still not fully achieved," he added.

"I know it is harder to belong to a minority race than to the majority. And this is true in every multiracial society, but it does not mean that we have to accept this state of affairs in Singapore."

This is why Singapore must keep working at the issue, PM Lee stressed.

The majority must be more sensitive to minority concerns, while individuals must also have the moral courage to take a stand against racist behaviour, he said.

This means expressing clear disapproval of racist incidents, and also calling out deliberate racist agitation that masquerades as something else.

The campaign against the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement with India (Ceca), for instance, claimed to be about putting Singaporeans first but had a strong racial undertone, PM Lee said.

The new Maintenance of Racial Harmony Act is part of keeping Singapore's policies on race and religion up to date, PM Lee said, noting that racial and religious harmony is dynamic.

Societal views and beliefs shift over time, with each new generation holding different perspectives on racial issues.

Older Singaporeans who lived through the racial riots that marked Singapore's journey towards independence usually believe that such issues are best left alone.

"They think: Discussions can become disputes, disputes can become quarrels, better don't talk about such things too much," he said.

But younger Singaporeans, who have largely grown up in an environment of peace and harmony, think differently.

They believe that as the country is now mature and stable, issues of race and religion must now be discussed more openly, and existing policies and assumptions re-examined, to improve the status quo.

"These generational differences in views are perfectly understandable and should be accommodated," he said.

The Prime Minister then turned his attention to how Singaporeans are influenced by external religious trends in a changing world.

For instance, many Christians think of themselves as members of a worldwide communion, while Muslims consider themselves to be part of a global ummah, or community of believers.

"So when religious norms elsewhere shift, norms and practices in Singapore are also affected," PM Lee said.

This is similar to how Singapore is exposed to, and subsequently influenced by, external political developments, he added. These include the Black Lives Matter movement in America, or the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians in Gaza.

"Our own circumstances and context are completely different, and these are not our quarrels," he noted. "But they do affect our people."

Such changes are why Singapore needs to adjust its policies on race and religion from time to time. But it must do so based on its own needs, rather than simply reacting to trends abroad, PM Lee stressed.

And as it makes such changes, it must proceed with caution. This is because race and religion will always be highly sensitive issues, he said.

"We have to take the time to discuss respectfully, make sure everybody understands, and build a consensus before we make any move."

R​ead next: 7 highlights from PM Lee Hsien Loong's ​National Day Rally

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• Lee Hsien Loong
• Race issues
• Singapore society
• NATIONAL DAY RALLY 2021

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