Project task A, Question 5

As everyone knows, Singapore is a multi-ethnic country with people from many different race , culture and religious backgrounds .It is possible for people to live in peace and harmony. Singapore has enjoyed racial and religious harmony among its people since its independence. Various policies and programs have been implemented to ensure that everyone living in Singapore, regardless of race or religion , lead a harmonious life .

The challenges faced to maintain this lifestyle are ongoing . Singapore must have been determined to maintain the peace so that Singaporeans could live such peaceful lives . The only problem faced by the government is that we would have to create more opportunities to nurture this bond within each Singaporean and allow it to flourish . There are many ways to foster social cohesion in Singapore.

1.Building a national identity.

a)Multi-racialism is the policy to promote equality among the races , with no special right granted to any particular racial or religious group. Everyone has equal opportunities to succeed , regardless of their background.

b)Common practices are actions that Singaporeans carry out together. Singing the national anthem, taking the pledge are some examples . All these help to foster national identity.

c)Bilingualism is where students are expected to learn English and Mother Tongue. English is the common language as well as a non-native language for all the ethnic groups, so that no one have any priority above another.

2.Safeguarding the interests of the minority groups

a)the policy of minority representation give minority groups a say in governance, its a good way to safeguard the interests of the minority group

b)Association plays an important role in helping members of their community who are less fortunate to get aid in their studies and training for their jobs . Self help groups will also give moral support to members of their own community.

There are still other ways to foster social cohesion such as to provide common living space,opportunities offered by educational institutions for everyone else .as well as some events and programs organized by grassroots organization.

All these can help to maintain the peace and foster the social cohesion in Singapore .



Chen Yi Zhe