"You know the Singaporean. He is a hard-working, industrious, rugged individual. Or we would not have made the grade."
Lee Kuan Yew
Singaporean identity comprises of diverse individuals from different countries, who uphold different cultural beliefs, yet live together in harmony. Unlike a liberal model of citizenship, in which it is the state’s duty to protect citizen’s rights, Singapore’s republican model of citizenship emphasises the role of citizens’ obligations to the state in the nation building process. In a nation which prioritises the community over the individual, this model of citizenship thus bestows clear responsibilities and civic duties upon citizens. Singaporean citizens, regardless of ethnicity, are subject to an inherent duty to contribute to the prosperity of the country, whether it be through compulsory national service, or participation in the workforce.
The origins of Singapore’s multicultural system of citizenship are illustrated in the Peranakan Museum, which explores the culture and history of the families of those who migrated to Singapore. From my own perspective, the nature of ongoing recognition of the Peranakan identity highlights Singapore’s acceptance of other nationalities. When I considered the rich ethnic history presented in this museum, I was able to see how the origins of multiculturalism still play an important role in Singapore’s diverse range of citizens today.
Singapore’s ethnic categorisation framework, CMIO, upholds cultural pluralism, encouraging ethnic minorities to integrate into Singaporean society but still uphold their culture. However, our guest speakers from Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2) provided an alternative perspective to the ideal Singaporean brand of a cosmopolis that inspires racial harmony. By providing support to non-citizen transient workers who are exploited and stripped of rights and protection, TWC2 attempts to secure certain rights for non-citizens in Singapore. This informative session highlighted a paradox, as while migrant workers actively participate in Singapore’s development, a precondition of active citizenship, they do not receive any rights due to their non-citizen status and the government’s refusal to grant dual citizenship. An eye opening walk through Little India highlighted how transient workers are exploited in a country that prides itself on its diverse community.
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