Which is the best policy to build a National Identity among Singaporeans?

There are three main policies to build a common identity for Singaporeans. They are multi-racialism, bilingualism and common practices. Multi-racialism is the policy that every community is treated fairly in Singapore- the interests of the various communities are kept in balance. No community is disadvantaged or favoured by any government policy. So, by practisingthe policy of multi-racialism, racial harmony is maintained as we enjoy religious freedom. Their respect for each other's religion has also enabled us to live harmoniously together since the 1964 race riots. Recognising and using four official languages has also helped to maintain racial hamony as each community can retain and develop its own language and culture.

Bilingualism was made compulsory in 1966 as the mother tongue was used to impart moral values and social tradition. The education system is most strongly influenced by the need for racial cohesion and nation building as we have a multi-racial society which is vulnerable to external influences. English is used as a means of communication with the world and amongst all Singaporeans to forge a common identity, which enhances responsibility and commitment to the family, community and country.

Common practices help to build a national identity as they encourage nation-building. Policies such as flag raising, pledge taking and singing the national anthem enhance national loyalty and patriotism as they are actions which Singaporeans carry out together. When Singaporeans themselves as loyal and full of pride, a national identity will be built. Common practices promote social stability as it gives the people a sense of belonging and pride.

Multi-racialism is the most important policy as it has created citizens of equal status with no biasness or discrimination towards any racial group so that a national identity can be easily forged. This is important as the Chinese form the majority whilst the Malays and Indians form the minority. If any group is relegated to second class citizens, then comflict and disharmony may arise.

The other two policies play complementary roles as bilingual and common practices are par of multi-racialism. In order to promote multi-racialism, it is only natural that the eduation system practises bilingualism so that no ethnic group is given more importance.