Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong participated in a dialogue at the HarmonyWorks! Conference 2024, held on August 3. The conference focused on promoting racial harmony and integration in Singapore, addressing concerns about casual racism, and exploring ways to strengthen community ties in a multicultural society.
Importance of Racial Harmony
During the dialogue, SM Lee emphasized the importance of maintaining harmonious racial and religious relations in Singapore. He reiterated the core values of equality, meritocracy, and respect for all individuals, regardless of race, language, or religion. “The way we construct our society and ensure that we have equality, meritocracy, and fair treatment is fundamental,” Lee stated. He noted that while Singapore has made significant progress in race relations, the issue of casual racism still needs attention.
Addressing Casual Racism
SM Lee discussed recent incidents of casual racism and emphasized the need for a measured response. He explained that while expressing disapproval of such behavior is essential, it is also crucial to manage these situations with sensitivity and understanding. He urged Singaporeans to engage in open dialogue and cultivate mutual respect, stating, “We need to interact with each other with respect, understanding sensitivities, and avoiding causing offense.”
Emotional Connections and Integration
When asked about emotional connections in racial and religious understanding, SM Lee highlighted the importance of personal relationships. He stressed that genuine connections are built through shared experiences, such as celebrating festivals together, serving in National Service, and growing up in integrated communities. “These emotional linkages make us different as Singaporeans and help us overcome potential racial tensions,” he said.
Immigration and Integration Challenges
The conference also addressed the challenges of integrating new immigrants into Singaporean society. SM Lee acknowledged the importance of maintaining a balance in the racial composition through immigration policies. He emphasized the need for both Singaporeans and new migrants to make an effort to bridge gaps and foster a cohesive society. He stated, “We must strive to strengthen Singaporeans’ cohesion, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or origin.”
Social Media and Its Impact
During the discussion, SM Lee addressed the role of social media in shaping public discourse on race and integration. While acknowledging the positive aspects of digital platforms in connecting people, he also warned about the dangers of echo chambers and the spread of misinformation. He emphasized the need for education and responsible use of social media to ensure constructive dialogue.
Leadership and Community Involvement
SM Lee emphasized the importance of leadership and community involvement in promoting racial harmony. He encouraged leaders at all levels, including community and religious leaders, to set the tone for society. He also highlighted the significance of grassroots efforts and encouraged young people to actively participate in discussions on race and integration.
The HarmonyWorks! Conference 2024 provided a platform for open dialogue on race relations and integration in Singapore. SM Lee Hsien Loong’s insights emphasized the need for mutual respect, emotional connections, and active community involvement to foster a harmonious and cohesive society. As Singapore approaches its 59th National Day, the dialogue served as a reminder of the importance of unity and understanding in building a diverse and inclusive nation.
Source – PMO
