Forum: Let’s do more to help immigrants integrate into S’pore society
I refer to the article,
- by autobot
- Aug. 28, 2024
- Source article
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I refer to the article, , (Aug 24). Our need to bring in more foreign talent makes it crucial for us to attach greater importance to the integration of immigrants into our society. Immigrants help drive innovation, fill skill gaps, and strengthen our global competitiveness, thus contributing to the well-being of our nation. After living and working here, some foreigners choose to settle in Singapore, drawn by its stable political environment, cultural diversity and world-class education system. Hence, it is important for us to welcome them as fellow citizens and help them integrate into society. Let’s spare a thought for these immigrants who are prepared to leave their country to work in Singapore, get married and raise a family here. For those who bring their family from their homeland to settle down here, it is not easy for them to cope with changes in their lifestyle as they struggle with anxiety while trying to get along with neighbours and schoolmates. While there are integration programmes in place, such as the Singapore Citizen Journey and the National Citizenship Ceremony, more can be done, especially to help those who are facing challenges. Social institutions can play an important role in this area by organising workshops and activities to help new arrivals. Cases of difficulties in integrating into society should be highlighted during group sharing sessions so that they can come up with suggestions on how to minimise these shortcomings faced by newcomers. Immigrants will definitely adopt a proactive approach to the integration process once they have developed a sense of belonging and acceptance.