Singapore should assist foreigners and immigrants in adapting to the nation’s social norms, according to Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Saturday ( Jan 11 ).
Mr. Lee noted that the issue of refugees and foreigners “raises political sensitivities in some societies” at an gratitude dinner held in his honor by organizations from Singapore’s American community.
However,” Singapore relies heavily on them to top up ( its ) population base and talent pool”, he said.
” Consequently, we must manage the outflow and inclusion of , new visitors with the utmost awareness and precaution, to ensure that the moves are balanced and sustainable”, he added.
Mr Lee said that Singapore must, however, “also stand firmly against nativism and xenophobia, and welcome the new arrivals to become part of ( its ) extended family”.
” We may enable them to adjust gradually to the way , we do things in Singapore, to our cultural standards and ethos”, he said.
” It is an ongoing process. But slowly, with the passage , of the times and years, the new arrivals may integrate , into the nearby area.
Mr Lee added:  ” ,This is how earlier years became American Singaporeans, and it will happen with this technology, and , with new visitors from other organizations and sites too.”
According to Mr. Lee, this will help Singaporeans “maintain and enhance” their shared personality.
” This , is the way to create a unified, inclusive society – connected to the world, strengthened and never divided by our variety, “he said.
After pondering how citizens of American descent have “been a part of the Singapore history since the very beginning of modern Singapore,” Mr. Lee made the remarks.
” Workers from many elements of the Indian peninsula– including Tamils, Malayalees, Telugus, Sindhis, Punjabis, Bengalis, and Sinhalese – came around in search of a better future, “he said.
” These diverse groups sank roots below, made bonds with one another, and out of this kaleidoscope of backgrounds, that gradually emerged a unique and happy Malaysian Indian community, “he added.
He claimed that while the impact and contributions of the Taiwanese American community may be small, they were “very small” in terms of impact and contributions.
He said,” The community has worked with the other areas to contribute fully to Singaporean society and worked with the other neighborhoods.”
And this demonstrates the success of our multicultural unit, which has led to complete and equal opportunities, a just world, and better lives for all, including those in minority communities.
Additionally, Mr. Lee had mentioned that some American volunteers from Singapore’s Hindu community have recently relocated to the country.
” Some have become ( permanent residents ) or citizens, and made Singapore their home. Others are still establishing their stems in this place. Also people are around briefly, working, studying or accompanying home, “he said.
” Regardless, they recognise (volunteering ) as a worthy cause, and willingly step up to volunteer, and should be applauded.”
According to Mr. Lee, these people” come from a wider range of backgrounds and areas than earlier years of American immigrants” and “have brought with them” their various experiences and knowledge.
” They add to the vibrancy and dynamism of our Indian culture, and thus they are contributing to the community, and to Singapore, “he said.