Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong of Singapore recently emphasized the tremendous contributions that immigrants make to the country’s economy and overall vitality. During a citizenship ceremony at Nanyang Polytechnic, Mr. Lee highlighted the profound impact of new citizens, stating that they bring fresh experiences, diverse perspectives, and global connections that enrich Singapore in ways that extend beyond mere statistics.
Drawing parallels to global metropolises like London, New York, and Shanghai, Mr. Lee underscored how the influx of enterprising and adventurous individuals from around the world serves to sharpen the city-state, fostering a dynamic environment of innovation and enterprise. He referenced his visit to Google’s headquarters in Silicon Valley, noting that many presenters had diverse ancestral backgrounds, which he attributed to America’s ability to draw top talent from across the globe and maintain its competitive edge.
Acknowledging the delicate balance required in managing immigration and integration, Mr. Lee stressed the importance of handling inflows with sensitivity and care. With approximately 30,000 citizen babies born each year and 22,000 new citizens welcomed into Singapore, he emphasized the necessity of attracting talent and contributions to sustain the country’s growth. Mr. Lee emphasized the importance of maintaining harmony among the diverse ethnic groups in Singapore and ensuring that new residents can seamlessly integrate into society.
To facilitate the integration of new citizens, Singapore offers comprehensive programs, including the Singapore Citizenship Journey and initiatives by the People’s Association to welcome and assimilate newcomers into their communities. Mr. Lee urged new citizens to actively engage with society, embrace the nation’s values and cultural norms, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
In a call to all Singaporeans, Mr. Lee emphasized the importance of extending a warm welcome to new citizens and fostering a sense of inclusivity. He encouraged existing residents to make an effort to connect with newcomers, whether as neighbors, coworkers, or classmates, and to embrace them as valuable members of “our Singapore team.” Rejecting nativist and xenophobic sentiments, Mr. Lee underscored the importance of unity and collaboration in building a cohesive and vibrant nation.
In concluding his address, Mr. Lee reiterated that Singapore’s success hinges on its people – both those who have long called the country home and those who continue to arrive from around the world. By cultivating an inclusive and open-minded society, Singapore can continue to thrive as a nation that offers boundless opportunities for all who are proud to call it home.
