Globalise Singapore

It was not the first time the Singapore National Team had foreign born Singapore citizens in the line up. In fact, it has been a long time since there were major criticisms of the Sportsmen for Singapore ever since the Foreign Sports Talent Scheme started. Amongst the patriotic Lions fans clad in red, there was notably a portion of distinctive Caucasian dress in red who answered the call of duty to be part of the Kallang crowd. As my friend was claiming them that they must be some relative and friends of Daniel Bennett or John Wilkinson, one must now seriously ponder whether they have immerse into the one of the Singaporeans' favourite pastime.

Many observers have voice their concerns that a more open and globalize Singapore attractive talents/quitters from all over the world could or will lead to a reduce amount of patriotism towards Singapore. Increasingly, it has even affected the younger generation of Singaporeans leading to the emergence of the Hotel Singapore analogy where national boundary is rendered progressively permeable. Well, a globalise Singapore do actually bring in its economic value, however, it has definitely come at a high social cost amongst the true blue Singaporean.

The increasing permeability of across nationality boundaries has certainly left many Singaporeans wondering whether the imbalance in the welfare and responsibilities put on the natives and the ‘new’ Singaporeans. Statistics from a few months ago from the Straits Times points out that only 2/3 of the Singapore Citizens are born and bred locally. Well clearly, the proportion on the Kallang Stadium was nowhere close. No doubt one cannot judge patriotism in this manner but I certainly believe it for more convincing then attending the National Day Parade.

Unmistakably, the government is economic driven. Economic growth is second to none in the hierarchy of the Singapore government. Look at the recent major events, from the Integrated Resorts to the Formula 1 Grand Prix, growth is place ahead of social security and environment well being. Surely, economic prosperity helps to run the country efficiently, however one must not forgo the willingness for the citizens to fight and build a country and strengthen the national identity for the much more tumultuous years ahead. A national identity build solely on economic growth can go nowhere further when tough economic times emerge. Hence, I strongly believe more actions should be done to make the citizens feel more worthy of being here instead of being short-changed in terms of the responsibilities and benefits section. Well, it is time to train for the annual IPPT again.

Majulah Singapura.