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Singapore stresses integration's role in immigration policy

A Singaporean official pointed out that immigration can only go as far as integration allows, and the country can only stay open and welcoming to newcomers if it is able to integrate them well.

Singapore (VNA) – Singapore needs to better integrate foreigners to stay open to immigration, which is crucial for the country’s economy and society to remain dynamic, Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow has noted.

Speaking at the Singapore Perspectives Conference organised by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) on January 26, Siow highlighted the growing need for immigration amid concerning demographic realities. Singapore’s total fertility rate (TFR) fell to a record low of 0.97 in 2024, which he characterised as abysmal.

He pointed out that immigration can only go as far as integration allows, and the country can only stay open and welcoming to newcomers if it is able to integrate them well.

According to the minister, all sides will have to make extra effort on this – newcomers must consciously want to integrate, contribute to the community, abide by norms here, and understand what it means to be Singaporean. At the same time, local residents need to remain open-minded, recognise that national identity continues to evolve, and accept that adaptation by immigrants takes time.

During a panel discussion on navigating challenges to social cohesion, Siow, who also serves as Senior Minister of State for Finance, observed that Singapore’s national identity is complex and constantly evolving, and therefore requires careful nurturing and management.

He underscored that maintaining social cohesion is an ongoing task. Despite being a young nation built on immigration, Singapore continues to face challenges in fostering unity. To address this, its government has implemented various policies to build a shared national identity, including the Housing and Development Board’s Ethnic Integration Policy and urban planning measures that place religious facilities in close proximity.

Siow also emphasised the role of grassroots organisations and community leaders, noting that promoting mutual understanding among residents helps build trust and enhances the capacity of communities to cooperate constructively when disagreements arise./.

VNA
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