In light of Singapore’s low fertility rate and ageing population, the Government continues to rely on immigration to sustain the nation’s population and avoid long-term decline in its citizen numbers. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister for Finance and National Development, Indranee Rajah, addressed a Parliamentary query on the Government’s initiatives to enhance public understanding and support for immigration as a key component of Singapore’s population strategy.
Speaking on behalf of Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong, Minister Rajah outlined three key measures the Government is implementing to address concerns surrounding immigration.
Managing Immigration Responsibly
Minister Rajah emphasized the importance of maintaining a stable and measured pace of immigration. She noted that the Government is cautious when granting Permanent Residency (PR) and Singapore Citizenship, ensuring that individuals who are granted these statuses can contribute meaningfully to Singapore, integrate well into society, and demonstrate a long-term commitment to the country.
“The majority of immigrants we welcome are of working age and make significant contributions to our economy. Many also have family ties to Singapore or have previously studied, worked, or lived here,” she explained. “We continually review our immigration framework to ensure it aligns with our evolving social context.”
Supporting Immigrant Integration
To support the integration of immigrants into Singaporean society, various programmes have been introduced to help them adapt to local norms and values. One such initiative is the mandatory Singapore Citizenship Journey, which requires new citizens to complete a course designed to enhance their understanding of Singapore’s history, culture, and societal values.
Additionally, the People’s Association operates a nationwide network of over 1,500 Integration and Naturalisation Champions. This initiative drives local-level integration efforts and promotes positive relations between new citizens and their Singaporean neighbours.
Promoting Public Education on Immigration
Minister Rajah also highlighted the Government’s efforts to foster public understanding of immigration through education and communication initiatives. She pointed out that students in Singapore are taught the importance of integration and social harmony through National Education programmes in schools. Events such as International Friendship Day further promote these values.
In addition to these efforts, Social Studies lessons guide students in understanding the significance of living in a diverse society and how they can contribute to social cohesion. History lessons focus on the contributions of Singapore’s founding leaders, from the nation’s early days as a British port city to its establishment as an independent nation in 1965.
Minister Rajah concluded by reiterating that these initiatives are essential for fostering a society that values integration, harmony, and the contributions of all its members, both citizens and immigrants alike.
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