Social cohesion in Singapore: Considering multiplicities and their management

• Main Author: KONG, Lily
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Institutional Knowledge at Singapore Management University 2023
• Subjects: Social cohesion; Singapore; race and religion; Asian Studies; Race and Ethnicity; Social Influence and Political Communication
• Online Access: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/soss_research/3941
• Institution: Singapore Management University

This chapter addresses the important topic of social cohesion in Singapore. It begins with recognising the conceptual range and complexity associated with the idea and then highlights the multiple factors and conditions in Singapore that give rise to potential or real fault lines which stand in the way of a cohesive society if not appropriately managed. While race and religion have traditionally constituted the official focus in the effort to build a socially cohesive society, this chapter broadens the discussion to other conditions that could potentially fracture Singapore society. The topic of social cohesion is particularly significant for the island city-state, which, like other societies, relies on a cohesive society for political stability, economic competitiveness, and growth but which, unlike other societies, is particularly vulnerable given its compact size, the coincidence of city with island with state, and its lack of hinterland and natural resources. Over the years, social cohesion has been carefully tended, led by political leaders, with contributions by community leaders, embedded in the efforts of educational and other public institutions. As global, regional, and local conditions evolve, these efforts will need to keep pace with changing circumstances in order to remain effective in fostering the social cohesion needed. These efforts require long-term investment, given that social cohesion is built over years.