Protecting Singapore's Racial and Religious Harmony
The Prime Minister addressed the nation regarding concerning activities online that threaten Singapore's racial and religious harmony. These activities include foreign actors attempting to influence Singaporeans' voting decisions along religious lines and local individuals promoting identity politics. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of rejecting these divisive forces to maintain Singapore's strength and unity.
Foreign Interference and Divisive Messaging
In recent days, the government has become aware of online activities by foreign actors targeting Singaporeans. These actors are pushing people to vote based on religious affiliation, claiming certain candidates will favor specific racial or religious groups. These messages are being shared widely within the Singaporean community. The government has blocked access to these messages and will continue to act decisively against such interference. The Prime Minister stated that Singapore cannot allow foreign actors to exploit differences to sow discord or advance their own interests. Singaporean politics must be decided by Singaporeans alone.
The Dangers of Identity Politics
The Prime Minister also addressed messages circulating online that attempt to inject race and religion into politics. One example cited was a social media post by a Singaporean activist suggesting Muslims should only support candidates willing to advance their religious agenda. The Prime Minister emphasized that such messages, regardless of their origin, must be rejected. Combining politics and religion is unacceptable in Singapore.
Here's why combining politics with religion is not allowed in Singapore:
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It damages the shared public space.
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It creates a competition of beliefs, leaving every community worse off.
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It allows outside forces to advance their own agendas.
Maintaining a Secular Approach
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of engaging with different communities to understand their needs and concerns. This engagement helps the government address concerns and problems in a fair and equitable manner, strengthening the community. However, this engagement differs greatly from identity politics, which should be rejected.
Understanding Identity Politics
Identity politics involves candidates and members of parliament demonstrating support based on race or religion, prioritizing the interests of that group over others. It is dangerous because when one group aggressively promotes its identity, other groups will organize in response. This can lead to hostility and resentment across society. When this occurs, no one benefits and society becomes more divided.
A Call for Unity and Clarity
The Prime Minister called on all political parties to clarify their positions on these issues. This is not a partisan issue but a matter of national interest. Specifically, the Prime Minister invited leaders of all political parties to clarify their commitment to two fundamental principles:
- Identity politics has no place in Singapore.
- Religion and politics should not be mixed.
Singaporeans First
Ultimately, despite differences, all Singaporeans must prioritize their national identity. The Prime Minister thanked Singaporeans of all races and religions for supporting multiracial and multireligious principles, which have enabled Singapore to build a successful and harmonious society. The Prime Minister urged Singaporeans to continue upholding these principles to protect this "oasis of peace" and preserve the country's exceptional harmony for years to come.