Embracing otherhood

It has came to light that Singapore is actually housing a good amount of foreigners, more than one out of four people you see here a foreigner. This condition will undoubtedly cause some challenges to arise.

One of them would be to actually let the people of singapore accept this. As the article pointed out, people here do not seem to see this matter in a good way. It may be the fact that a large intake of foreign talent will take up opportunities that may otherwise go to locals. This may be jobs, residential areas and even education. However we rarely look at the fact that foreign talent need not only encompass high end talent. Most blue collar workers are included in the term "foreign talent". If we are to stop their entry, who would be the ones to build us houses, clean the streets and toilets. Are the people here willing to clean a toilet after JC education.

Another challenge we may possibly face is a less than united society. Foreigners who come in usually take time to assimilate completely into the society. As a country, we must show a united front so as to not be exploited by others. How can we effectively call ourselves one when a quarter is missing. Both sides should understand each other well and be less-prejudiced. Then can the 'foreigners' be integrated into our society and called a Singaporean.

Much like Malaysia, when Singapore tries to bring in foreigners, the country itself becomes extrememly multi racial. In Malaysia, there have been racial riots caused by sensitive issues regarding race. Since then, laws have been erected to prohibit one from even touching on these topics. I believe that Singapore has less restrictions as racist jokes are still heard here. Even i myself only truly understood the true extent of "racist jokes" here in Singapore. These small things disturb the unity of a society and if possible should be avoided.