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Chapter 5: Why is there a greater diversity in Singapore now? - Coggle…
Chapter 5: Why is there a greater diversity in Singapore now?
Immigration policy
It is important for Singapore to adopt an open immigration policy in order to fulfil the manpower needs in order to sustain Singapore’s economy.
Singapore is experiencing an ageing population as well as a low birthrate, resulting in a declining workforce.
As a result, more immigrants are attracted to work in Singapore due to the openness that Singapore has towards foreign labour and the ease of applying for work.
As they migrate to Singapore, they bring along their work experiences, their own nationality and culture as well as their values therefore adds to the diversity of Singapore’s society.
Example
In 1980, Singapore encounter a serious problem of brain drain due to Singaporeans professionals migrating to other countries for better paying jobs opportunities. This thus has resulted in the Singapore government to encourage foreigners to migrate to Singapore to make up for this brain drain so as to meet the labour needs of the country
Economic opportunities
Multinational corporations (MNCs)
With the conditions in Singapore such as:
Best investment policy
Ease doing business
Least corrupted (well-established judiciary system)
Growth potential
this has fulfilled the qouta of MNCs preference for Singapore, it therefore has attracted 7000 MNCs to invest in Singapore
Growth potential:
No restrictions on flow of investment money
Favourable operating conditions
Strong diplomatic ties, less restrictions when exporting and importing goods
Stable political and economic climate
Ease of doing business:
Simplified process of setting up businesses through online submission for forms for construction permits, new workplace safety, and health care regulations
Stable political environment:
Least corrupted in the economy in the region
Highly valued transparency
Clear and strict laws and legislation imposed by the government over business dealings and transactions
The MNCs preference for Singapore has resulted in plenty of jobs available here, therefore the employment opportunities have thus made Singapore an attractive place to work in for many
MNcs attracted migrants and immigrants to look for look that may not exits in their home countries as it may be in war, turmoil, etc.
The need for labour to sustain the economy
Both unskilled and talented foreigners workers are needed to sustain Singapore's economy
Unskilled and skilled workers usually take up jobs that are usually shunned by Singaporeans
Examples of jobs
Domestic helper
F&B
Retail
Marine Sectors
Construction
Talented foreign professions come as:
Professionals, Managers, Executives or Technicians (PMETs)
Senior managers
Manage in areas such as the banking sector
Educators to educate local students
In 2014, there were about 340K professionals in Singapore
Social-cultural environment
Community Support
With these immigrant communities in Singapore, they bring with them distinct national identities that include ethnic practices unique to their countries of origin. The multi-cultural environment and the respect practiced towards the diverse practices and religion makes them feel accepted and welcomed.
Not only do they receive support from their community in Singapore, but also from Immigrant support groups
Example
The Australia and New Zealand Association (ANZA) action group was established to support Australian and New Zealander families based in Singapore
Furthermore they would immediately feel at home the moment they arrive at Singapore due the support they can receive from people of the same ethnicity as them
Thus, with the inflow of more migrants, they contribute to the diversity in Singapore.
They are able to feel familiar with their surrounding and develop a sense of belonging even when they are in a foreign country by providing them with a community that they are able to relate and come back to
Examples
The Japanese gather at Liang Court near Clarke Quay
The Thais commonly gather at the Golden Mile complex beach which has been dubbed ‘little Thailand’ as they go there for its Thai supermarket and authentic Thai cuisine
The Filipinos gather at Lucky plaza at orchard road
Education system
Education system in Singapore is well recognized for its effectiveness and high standards therefore it has attracted to many
Public schools in Singapore are becoming more popular with foreigners and has been accepting international students
Tertiary institutions like polytechnics and universities like National Singapore University and Singapore Management University are also very popular among international students.
They feel that it is a good place to settle their families here given that it meets their education needs.
Thus, with the inflow of more migrants, they contribute to the diversity in Singapore.
Safe environment
When immigrants and migrants think of migrating, safety and security in one country is one of the key consideration factor
Therefore, Singapore low crime rates and strict laws that plays a role in ensuring the level of safety in Singapore has attracted many
Impacts of increased migration
Positive
The stable conditions in Singapore and employment opportunities have resulted in many foreigners wanting to come and work in Singapore. Thus with the arrival of many migrants and immigrants , the diversity has increased.
Talented foreigners can command high wages due to their specialised skills while unskilled foreigners are willing to work for lower wages in Singapore. This has led to widening income gaps in our socio-economic diversity
Negative
Rise in anti-foreigner sentiment
( more in Chapter 6 )