On race relations and racism in Singapore: IPS-RSIS forum keynote speech by Minister Lawrence Wong

Following several "worrying" incidents of racism in Singapore, Minister Lawrence Wong on Friday (Jun 25) gave a keynote speech on the dynamics between minority and majority groups in the country and what can be done moving forward.
This is his full speech at the IPS-RSIS Forum on Race and Racism in Singapore.
Full Q&A after Mr Wong's speech: • Minister Lawrence Wong...
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[@Tommashelbyeee]

'Racism isn't getting worse, it's getting filmed'. - Will Smith

[@ConradSNIPER]

Hello!! Are you groggy? It is not racism BUT a difference only. Know the facts right & not to anyhow imagine Please!

[@ConradSNIPER]

You must first EDUCATE yourself - before becoming Nosy !!

[@ConradSNIPER]

I wonder if our minister will invite you to an Isolation Chalet to live for a while?

[@ConradSNIPER]

Your comment is indirectly inciting RACSIM ! Do you know or are you Naive !

[@ConradSNIPER]

Please NO NO anyhow Think & anyhow write !! Primary children are reading & watching also.

[@sivanamasivayam5536]

Mr. Wong speaks in simple language, put his arguments convincingly. His speech is very assuring and makes us feel comfortable.

[@tomyam88]

True.. 😁👍🏻

[@TechTagged]

I admire how Mr.Wong is composed and articulate well. Example of good leader

[@WhiskeyFatimah]

This is a rather lengthy speech but I found it worthwhile for myself or indeed every righteous country and citizen of the world to recalibrate oneself and ones moral compass every so often, as this minister has done on its governments behalf. The world, especially its northern neighbour, has so much to learn and catch up with Singapore's civilised and Successful way of dealing with racial primalism, supremacism, fundamentalism and exclusionism destroying many parts of the world. Just look around us how many countries have clumsily or stupidly been tearing apart their social fabric applying populist and ethnocentric measures with divisive intents. Quite a handful are already on the final legs in the journey of implosion and self destruction.

[@ConradSNIPER]

Please do not POKE needle to the Apple you are about to eat.

[@ConradSNIPER]

Tomorrow, go see doctor again PLEASE

[@Tommashelbyeee]

@@ConradSNIPER

[@ryumuaz1997]

#TolakUMNOBNPASBERSATU #UNDI18 #ThanksyouMRWONG #UNDIPH #UNDIPKR .

[@arcencielc2065]

I lived in three other countries including the USA and two in Europe before settling down in Singapore. Singapore has been done well in racial integration and harmony. Please don't take this for granted.

[@cholesterol804]

Sg is asian racism hub

[@sarinahpape4569]

I fully appreciate the bigger picture and balance in this speech. Thank you for making it clearer. Well done!

[@abhisheksrivastava7166]

Singapore is Blessed to have leaders like Minister Wong ! Such sensitivity and rational articulation of perspectives.

[@khandekarprabhu]

Sir, Excellent speech!!! The responsibility u carry in this pandemic period is huge!! SG is in safe and sensible hands.. Founding father created the strong base.. And 4G Ministers carrying it forward.. hats off to ur commitment!!

[@rajnaidu5521]

I as a Minority, have not felt a moment of racism from anbody in Sg. Bcoz, our Police and the Lawmakers are the true pillars of upholding the 'Equal treatment under the Constituition', guaranteed by LKY. Majulah Singapore,!!!

[@rogerjohnson898]

I'm so happy to learn of your experience & personal insight as this can be impactful to the rest. Brilliant!

[@prakharvishnoi1543]

With all respect sir, things are not this simple. Such incidents are increasing which are not appreciable.

[@Rakesh06]

What a speech!! outside of the topic, your calmness and a neutral tone on a sensitive topic without notes shows you talk the mind! this speech shows the values you were taught when you were young and the experiences you want to share to this world in a positive way! Take a bow sir👏👏👍🙂 You are a true inspiration!! Keep that smile on 👍

[@upalipeiris7968]

I agree. Singapore is one of the best places where communitiesv ive in harmony. I can attest to this fact since I have livedvin several developing and developed countries. Please don't take it for granted. Scientifically speaking, we are 99.99% genetically similar. Do you want to fight over 00.01%? Is it worth it?

[@mooniitk]

He does an amazing job here presenting a balanced viewpoint on a sensitive topic and openly addressing the elephant in the room in the most rational way possible. Kudos!

[@cooliipie]

That was honestly the most impressive speech I heard in a long time. If only every president of every nation could speak like this ~

[@rishiprasath]

Minister Lawrence Wong is on a roll . He's literally a celebrity now.

[@Kevin-st2yh]

He should be the next PM! I think he would make a great one.

[@travel360love]

One of the best speech I have ever heard. Calm and impactful.. impressive speech. Our future Singapore Prime Minister..

[@Kevin-st2yh]

He would be a great PM

[@marcuswong6263]

He is certainly my choice of PM. No doubt about that. He come across as sincere, genuine and a person with empathy. Proud that Singapore has such a fine leader!

[@gocoronago5853]

Compassion. We need compassion, which our society lacks.

[@gha9543]

Empathy for those that came to built ur city. Prosperity has shown singaporeans to be arrogant and intolerant for other race and culture.

[@eggplant240]

Yes. SG is such a cold place. Not unlike China, I guess. Surprising for what is a so-called developed society.

[@bobafett5757]

Compassion is for the dying inside.

[@ConradSNIPER]

A great society begins with Compassion 👍

[@ConradSNIPER]

Compassion is One important foundation of a Successful Society.

[@prithvirajbhat]

I have never felt safer as much as i felt safer in singapore. I never faced any racial incidence in my 3 years of life. just couple of incidents cannot be the conclusion on racism. Singapore is the place of harmony and peace and i am happy being here.

[@rishiprasath]

Fair enough, to add my two cents on your view on this matter, racism is like the wild west else where. Take a look at US. This alone combined with your view just lit a fire in me.

[@Tommashelbyeee]

Go back to your country la

[@rishiprasath]

Troll.

[@doublecheeseburger22]

@@Tommashelbyeee Go back to china

[@pangxc]

Please ignore this David charactor. Your comment made me very happy.

[@srsmaheswary000]

Whether majority or minority each one shld respect one another regardless of race.

[@ConradSNIPER]

Respect your head !!! Just be FRIENDLY is suffice.

[@harshitdaksh7680]

What a gentleman speech by a country minister 👏🏻👏🏻 whole world need leaders like him. Singapore could set a good example of Harmony by these means.

[@tanaesther9570]

Well done 👍 thank you Ministers of Singapore 🇸🇬

[@anitakhalil4595]

Minister,speak tacfully, n able to bring our's heart and ear closer,alots of reminder,from past generation,till 2day generation,my heart touch on you.this is our's up and coming prine minister..for finance point of view,he willing to give out more hoapau,and not stinc...pls help thou who are affected in their business.thay will be the one that surely benefit back to the society.he is very positive,in covid 19, thing will turn around,i also believe so.he open up travel fron high rist country, why? Cos people are people, country is country, that alone he see the diff...that is wat he make s'pore awhole lots special. May god bless on you ,with you only peace upon us.thanks minister wong.

[@limrobert7837]

Mr. Wong, you boldly confront the problem of racism head-on, looking at past and present incidence. You are capable of keeping racism in check.

[@eddymohd5282]

A trip down memory lane. An excellent throwback. 1yr ago. Now its already 11 October 2022. 🇸🇬🇸🇬🙏🙏🙏

[@yongjiejun1477]

V stress hor need to manage covid now still need settle racism in the country also

[@jessngam33]

I'm hope Singapore push hard for the Singapore kindness movement campaign agian just like in the 1980s and 90s. The Singa lion mascot. Really missed those days. People should always think of others instead for themselves.

[@TechTagged]

Agreed. Need to wake up the lion

[@m.bashirazmatkhan143]

Thank you minister...well spoken, good points raised.

[@hengeechua3705]

It is not about racism. It is more about Singaporeans being unfairly displaced by foreigners especially by people from certain countries. The natural aristocrats who have all the privileges in Singapore do not know that they do not have to compete with the foreigners in any way but the peasant Singaporeans have to compete with the foreigners in every way. In fact, the peasant Singaporeans are now being discriminated in their owned country by foreigners and have become a third class citizen.

[@limchyehock6722]

@@chitchat3838 Cheaper.

[@chitchat3838]

@@limchyehock6722 Nope... foreigners at executive levels are not any cheaper. Labour work adding on levy also expensive. My own observation is foreigners are more willing to go the extra miles, which you really need for serving the demanding customers.

[@chitchat3838]

Use fresh grad as example, do u rather pay $3500 for someone who will rush to complete your urgent task at 6pm ; or someone at $3000 who tell you mummy is outside waiting to bring him for dinner..your work can wait till tomorrow. As a hiring manager, of course I will choose one at $3500, coz $500 is not my problem. 😂😂

[@hengeechua3705]

@@chitchat3838 common lah don’t exaggerate. If Singaporeans are such a softy, Singapore will not become a net employing country today which allows people from all over to work here. I guess maybe you just talking about your children only. If Singaporeans are still such a softy after 2 years of NS, then the government shd just scrap the NS.

[@chitchat3838]

@@hengeechua3705 your attitude is typical loh.... thinks gov should solve all your problems. Sit at home and complaint n whine...why need to work ??? Let the foreigners work.

[@PKPKPK1]

Lawrence Wong really is a shiny star to other countries as to how a balanced knowledgeable politician should behave and present themselves.

[@carolclairmont248]

What an amazing balanced speech. Other leaders around the world should listen to this. Wow

[@Celia-nl7uj]

An excellent speech delivered so calmly. He recognises and addresses the anxieties of all the three races in this one speech. I felt assured he will be able to lead and overcome any future racial issues calmly and rationally.

[@blissletlive291]

At last someone really speak up sthg that's so close to hearts...👍👍👍

[@ConradSNIPER]

👍👍👍

[@setannirazim280]

One of the solution is.....embrace the difference

[@chinchang5117]

Asking different races to embrace the difference is a bit too far. But tahan the difference, that is what we need to do.

[@setannirazim280]

@@chinchang5117 ure wrong..lets see how many likes u have.when u embrace...u will appreciate everyone of them..

[@hal0odst754]

A good reminder to the nation

[@ConradSNIPER]

Please remind yourself FIRST !!

[@Tommashelbyeee]

@@ConradSNIPER

[@twong6531]

here's why Lawrence Wong would make a good Prime Minister ! respect!!

[@kpsher367]

I would rate Singapore highly in keeping racial harmony .

[@kpsher367]

BTW: I am NOT a Singaporean.

[@faufaumeowmeow3737]

Thank you. 💐 From a born & raised Malay, Muslim Singapore woman 😊♀️🇸🇬

[@kpsher367]

@@faufaumeowmeow3737 You guys should totally Thank your country and your establishment , I am just an outsider.

[@faufaumeowmeow3737]

@@kpsher367 Am blessed. My race maybe one of the minorities but Malay is one of the major ethic group in Singapore. Malay Language is THE National Language, National anthem and even used in the coat-of-arms. Islam is one of the 10 recognised religions and is practiced openly. Yes, am thankful. Thank you. 😊

[@kpsher367]

@@faufaumeowmeow3737 I am sorry but I do not see the relevance of what you said but I do hope that all Singaporean folks, languages, religions , ways of life get recognition.

[@simmi1431]

Good speach, hope people listen,understand,n follows

[@enifomar8352]

Concern with SAPS is nothing to do about removing cultural preservation but the idea that the students are made exclusively to mix with people of their own language which will ultimately lead to a lack of exposure with people other races and also by offering certain languages it does not allow people of other languages of other races to enroll in such school.

[@toquan084]

Yes. Remove all forms racism . Remove all SAP schools and all Islamic schools in Singapore. Good racism or bad racism is racism.

[@jameschu4331]

Those filming racism and has a case should not be put on social media but should be reported to police. This is not to exaggerate the problem and one day may lose control.

[@NewmaticKe]

Exactly, its Penal Code 298A. By being selective, racism is further promoted

[@Tommashelbyeee]

U really think of report directly to police, they will take swift action compared to putting in social media? U must be dreaming. Reporting to police directly about racism is as good as doing nothing. That’s why nowadays everyone is putting in social media so that the police will take action swiftly.

[@lawrencechong7590]

The person who video tape the Ngee Ann polytechnic altercation and upload it on KZbin should be charged in court.He or she fan the racial hatred.

[@toquan084]

💯 agreed. Uploaders threatened Singapore racial harmony . New laws to stop them .

[@gha9543]

@@toquan084 Foreigners got done in similar fashion because SG allows Facebook evidence to incriminate and penalise bad behaviour during covid regulations. Just and equal society for who ? If it is not for U than who is ur video and Facebook evidence use against? Foreigner only?

[@cholesterol804]

Hiding it only make it worse. Racism is part of human dna. Acceptance is the key😂

[@felicialor7010]

Strictly SFH then such things won't happen

[@eddymohd5282]

Happy Friday Sir during your speech here at this moment in time.. 🇸🇬🇸🇬🕊🕊🕊

[@RajRaj-zx4rf]

Racial discrimination Is happening every where in Singapore. This is true.

[@michael8372]

"in any multiracial society, it is harder to be a minority than the majority". did mr wong just imply that life for minorities in singapore is unfair? if so, the gov had failed becos the constitution (article 1.5.2.) enjoins the gov to care for the interest of the racial and religious minorities in singapore. in short, the gov must treat minorities BETTER to level the playing field. if not, mr wong would have foddered sentiment among minorities that life for them is unfair. while it is pertinent for ministers to remind every resident on this island that the hard-earned racial cohesion is never to be taken for granted, backed up by punishments to those who cross the line, it's quite another to start a speech with a suggestion that racism in singapore is systemic. mr wong would be wise to clear this up asap. or he would have open up a pandora box. what's next? introduce critical race theory lessons in our schools?

[@jessiejames7492]

No one owes the minorities ( i am ) any special treatment. I think it means giving them recognition and a fair plsying field. I think the govt has done that. Until recently due to the multitudes of foreigners coming in and unfair work practises. The govt was slow to act on. .

[@Callsign-Blade_RunnerSG]

@micheal Bring your Cancel Culture somewhere else! Foolish to Believe in your OWN narrative in your OWN eco chamber.

[@michael8372]

@@Callsign-Blade_RunnerSG what mr wong said will lead exactly to that. by implying/endorsing the narrative/perception that life is unfair for minorities in singapore. like i said. if that is TRUE, the constitution of singapore enjoins the gov to do something about it. if that is NOT TRUE, then mr wong would have foddered a false narrative. He made it official. he didn't address racism. he fanned it. in a multiracial society, the perception of racism can be worse than racism itself. far worse. the PM should clear this up asap. once the idea takes hold of the minds of young, that the minorities are struggling with systemic racism, what you will get is cancel culture, political movements.

[@mle0ng]

From this speech a Prime Minister is born….

[@martintan4982]

🤯🤡

[@TonyTarawan]

Totally agree with you minister. Ours diverse Race is one of the strong points of Singapore. As long as we maintain harmony between us, nothing we can afraid of to face our future.Look at our elder generation and learned from them about harmony.

[@Ganiish]

Excellent sir

[@jameslim6865]

Time for the minority communities to bang the table hard and demand real change. Make sure the Chinese majority listens. There is no place for any form of discrimination in Singapore. You do not need to suffer in silence. The PAP model did not work and will never work, period.

[@user-nq2sw6sg8q]

Race is a extremely sensitive issue. Even within same race within the Chinese communities, there is 'bias' among dialect groups ,let alone races among different ethnic groups.

[@cooliipie]

There are many different races in China. And yes, han are extremely racist against the dark skin small eyed ones.

[@kongthai..]

MoF Wong is being impractical. But let the MoH Ong- MoF Wong do their sabbaticals for next few years. We have to be PRACTICAL, and we need to recruit FOREIGN WORKERS with similar cultural values. The present troubles of riots has common causes, political factional rivalry. 😌

[@jovimathews]

@@cooliipie huh? Dude, the Han took over China 2226 years ago and abolished-exterminate all ethnicities, books, languages, cultures and races, there are no other races except the small eyes ones left there. Till this day only Mongolians and Urgur are the only final ones left.

[@haidendin3271]

Good speech, LW.👍

[@s.rajakumar-singhainvest9913]

Wonder full sir

[@Ezwan-dg2oo]

Timely topic. Very thoughtful and articulated policy speech by the Minister. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@amontano7644]

As someone who has lived in Singapore, Europe, USA and other Asia Pacific countries, I totally agree with Mr Wong. Singapore needs to work hard towards retaining her unique muticulturalism, and the people need to be more open-minded yet cautious at the same time.

[@aventisin2675]

Well-spoken.

[@saisamsuri]

It's mostly the older generation who are racist. Not saying that younger racists don't exist but the way the different generations view multiculturalism are vastly different. The younger generation don't think (or care) about race that much, as least when compared to the older generation. So I would like to believe it's gradually improving. But to truly have a colourblind society, entire generations (including Gen Z, maybe even Gen Alpha and Beta) will have to die out.

[@zaintonputeh8475]

The older generation is not racist. We live in a kampong where our doors never close until we r about to go to sleep. My neighbours made up of chinese baba, urasian, indian n malay. We r like family. My parents can help to look after their children if the parents r busy or have to go back to malaysia cant bring all 9 children.

[@osakat8102]

My neighbor is Indan they are very nice.. I work with Indan too I love to work with them :) be nice to people ..

[@ceciliangwhng1915]

Thank You 🙏 on the speech and reminder, we come a long way, let’s all keep our mindfulness together on ONE PEOPLE REGARDLESS ON RACE LANGUAGE n RELIGION

[@ConradSNIPER]

What LONG WAY....? Your way or my way - Or High Way? Please lah...todays diversity is almost Global. Last time is only a few ethnic groups. Today, Singapore is put to a Mini-Trial to this challenge of Consolidating a Mini-Global group of people to unity & harmony... One had to speak Beyond a language - understand

[@stephaniehale946]

*It should start with the government. Why does the government insist on maintaining the Chinese majority when giving out PRs and Citizenships? You are giving out PRs to the ethnic Chinese from Malaysia, Mainland China, Indonesia, the Philippines, etc. where you only look at the race instead of looking at someone's qualification, education, English-speaking skills, and just other in-demand skills in general. Instead of lecturing others on multiracial society, change your policies where you give PRs and Citizenships to the most qualified instead of to someone who meets the racial criteria.*

[@JL-bb1cr]

We said. Racial harmony must be guarded at all costs in Singapore as our forefather generations have worked very hard to build this multiracial society. Let us respect one another as one nation, one people and one Singapore.

[@jessiejames7492]

The problem is singapore is no more one people!! Every 3 singaporean we have 1 foreigner. PR or non citizen. How many NEW citizens. By what criteria did they become a citizen? Do they have loyalty to the country. I doubt. Who are the ones stoking the fires of racial disharmony here. !

[@Jack-hy2ki]

@@jessiejames7492 do u know our forefathers also NEW citizens to start off? If u discriminate the NEW citizens u r also discriminating our forefathers.

[@jessiejames7492]

@@Jack-hy2ki sure they were new but quickly assimilated. They wanted to become part of their adopted country. Situation then was different… vastly different from today!

[@Jack-hy2ki]

@@jessiejames7492 how u knew what they were doing and thinking in the past and how u knew what those in present time were thinking and assuming they were not?

[@jessiejames7492]

@@Jack-hy2ki their actions speak louder thsn words!

[@MenonMenonti]

Racism is a powerful and deeply interwoven combination of both pride and fear. Trust is the bridge that makes relationships possible. You can have love, and even genuine forgiveness, but if you do not have trust, a relationship is impossible. Fear and pride tear down the trust that makes relationships possible.

[@ConradSNIPER]

Please go eat your medicine FIRST. Don't anyhow write lah. Yes, RACSIM is continously happening & increasing now - BUT only to a very few numbers of POOR & LOW EDUCATED & Disorientated suckers only !! You can find a few racism arsses among the LOW & POOR commoners only.

[@puneetmahindroo]

Sir, it’s one the most compelling dialogue I have heard in my generation. It’s pragmatic, honest and factual.

[@farrahkong1998]

The talk a cliché.

[@annapooraniramakrishnan2887]

Well said!! Mr Wong. U have clearly addressed the major problems facing in SG. We the minority are hurt. Why we have to face such behaviour in our country? We are ashame to some disgusting attitude. Please let the minorities live peacefully here.

[@stank7661]

Indians are also racist toward Chinese, too. And the daily cases of Indians being racist to Chinese should be addressed fully too on national television. If you want peace from non-Indians, you should also offer peace to non-Indians. But because of covid19 effects (lost jobs and unable to get another job, can't meet families overseas, can't travel overseas, businesses become bankrupt, distancing issues, lockdown, schools and unis closed, masks everywhere etc), people blame others who are of not their own race, usually and naturally. Especially the ones who don't have income now or and very poor. Because the only thing they have is their own race. This is why everyone needs to be given a job, regardless of what job it is and the job's income should be enough for a normal living so racial issues will decrease.

[@Bu5es]

What our government fail to notice is that...this generation of leadership on singapore must be to mantain what has already been built by the previous generation, if they so wish to progress even though its not something that will benefit us...the expectations of singaporeans who have lived through's lky leadership would therefore feel that they have failed. If our government just decided to Upkeep and Mantain, its unlikely that they will face much issues.

[@NewmaticKe]

I agreed with you totally. I feel that some leaders championing anti racism are actually stirring things up. They do not have the impartiality of LKY and they must tread carefully.

[@pahatpahat9566]

It is good to see how Singapore leaders had taken a positive step against such behavior! At the moment , both Singapore and Indonesian leadership have come out openly to address such issue. And their efforts can be seen by the economic progress seen in their societies!

[@andymoh4557]

certian bank in Singapore. When you go in, you will feel like you are in India. Is this racist? When you have time you should visit Changi City Point area in weekday during lunch time, you will know the root cause of the problem.

[@Jack-hy2ki]

More like u r the racist one. Cos u r one angry seeing more other races working at a location. So a minority race should ask is it racist if he/she went into a bank where all employees are chinese? When I went to Raffles place I see mostly chinese nowadays I should make noise?

[@toquan084]

Too many CECA.

[@Jack-hy2ki]

@@toquan084 don't blame others for your incapability. Go think why u r replaced by FT and not your other Singaporean colleagues lah.

[@jessicaliang6068]

We are frustrated with the influx of ceca making us feel like the minority. The government should visit places in the east! Please try to listen to the people voices and hope Lawrence will talk about ceca affecting our life rather than thinking Singaporean suddenly becomes racist!

[@Jack-hy2ki]

@@jessicaliang6068 ceca is a racist slur now. In case u do not know. Only Racist and xenophobic hates the trade agreement name "CECA". But I would like to add 1 more. The incapable and afraid of competition local hates the trade agreement "CECA". Cos they know they will be replaced but not their diligence and capable Singaporean colleagues.

[@ganboonmeng5370]

If we can elect a indian opposition leader to achieve 2 GRC victory. ..we surely accept an Indian PM ? Like Thama ??? It is only PAP that is a problem !

[@gha9543]

He has a shorter runway as he is older than Mr.Heng. He is also due for retirement as he is 64 yrs old.

[@pamelakoh4660]

Excellent speech Sir🙏our future Prime Minister👍

[@yurigansmith]

Impressive speech!

[@gracelim2336]

It is time to have a Eurasian PM or President of Singapore.

[@compassion7243]

Our singapore father Mr lky...said after independence...tis country is not belong to Chinese,Indian,malay...we are one nation...move forward to build our country...if he still around...he will throw tan boon lee...in ISD...FOR CREATING RACIAL DISHARMONY...and others will wake up...and stop problem frm the roots...

[@derrickchan2853]

Satu Singapura

[@Tommashelbyeee]

Don’t have high hopes on LKY. If u lived in his era, he openly says racist things on tv and gets away from it.

[@ajisenramen888]

Link Please

[@Jero2012DIY]

This is a FT nation!!! 😆

[@Tommashelbyeee]

@bell198000 diam la keyboard warrior.

[@ibatawi]

Calm between 1965 up till CeCA was signed. U figure it out .

[@navdasone4710]

Singaporean Singapore is, what has been missing from Singapore for decades now!

[@ConradSNIPER]

My personal thanks to this Vid. I'd had been seeing these & experiencing it... I'm no doubt stressfully worried. ... Now i see a glimpse of hope & salvation !!!

[@moneyking2540]

Best is to Lead by Good Example. Start with your Own Children.

[@simkwakia]

"Integration, not assimilation". Wise attitude and practical application.

[@jayden8963]

Complex issues often have simple causes and solutions. Rethink policies implemented in 2011 onwards again, carefully.

[@reviewkingphd3172]

We miss LKY. After him there was no backbone.

[@perinpaselvamselvadurai2690]

Well spoken by DPM of Singapore.Kudos to him

[@christelsands3861]

Racism definitely exists in Singapore but it is not simply a matter of 'majority vs minority'. Perhaps we need to approach the issue as Singaporeans, meaning, we should try to solve the problem our way and not import sweeping catchphrases from other countries as if they apply to our unique situation. I do not see racism as a majority vs minority issue but an obsession with skin colour. There is certainly no majority (Chinese) privilege as far as I am concerned. Just recently, I witnessed a fair-skinned Chinese middle-aged woman repeatedly questioning a young sales lady about her ethnicity. Although the latter insisted that she was a mainland Chinese, the former continued insisting that she was Indian simply because she was a little darker than the average Chinese. She only stopped the harassment after I intervened. As a teenager, I went through similar experiences because I was darker due to frequent exposure to the sun. Chinese adults would call me 'Ma lai kai' in cantonese, loosely translated as 'Malay Chicken'. As a customer, I was either ignored in favour of other fairer-skinned customers behind me in the queue or given bad service. Maybe I did not look fair enough and many mistook me as a foreigner. Things got better after I became a shade fairer due to environmental factors. At work, I was disadvantaged despite being the 'majority race' because the 'minority race' made up the majority in my team. They casually spoke their own language in my presence. But it did not do any damage to my social life. These are some of my experiences as a Chinese Singaporean. To me, 'majority privilege' does not exist. To minorities voicing concerns about jobs, I was impressed many times by Malays who spoke fluent mandarin. They should not have any problem with getting jobs that require spoken mandarin if they fit the bill. Otherwise, yes, it is racism. In a nutshell, some people are simply obsessed with skin color, be it the majority or minority races. Perhaps we should approach the issue of racism by addressing this obsession instead of harping on 'privilege'. That ignorant labeling switches me off any discussion on race with those fond of using it. And we need to remind ourselves that there are provocateurs intent on dividing us, with whatever means they can think of, for their benefit. Finally, a suggestion to start the ball rolling - consider making the reserved presidency more inclusive by replacing specific references to 'Malay', 'Indian' or 'Eurasian' with 'non-majority of the four Singaporean races' or something similar. Why? The rate at which we are going, Singaporean Chinese might one day become a minority but would not be 'protected' in any way. Maybe the suggested amendment would soothe some nerves. I would support such a presidency unreservedly.

[@rubaraniv3181]

Lol dont give crab comments

[@Sminsky]

As long as there is human interaction, there will also be racism. It is inherent that people will always judge another, be it their races, colours, gender, accent, physical attributes, etc. So live and let live.

[@poisonci4792]

I disagree. It's the upbringing of people and the society

[@m.k.s.7417]

Thanks to: Singapore; for: HISTORICALLY; -Looking after: "My fellow_ -"Eurasian's""!!!! *May you be rewarded, for such!!* -M.K.S.

[@cecelialee2179]

Why dun we just live in harmony irregardless of what race.?

[@pythagorastheorem5965]

Impressive speech. Much needed voice (to unify) in these (polarising) times. An implicit rejection of crt in our unique multicultural society.

[@yenthimuthu7245]

Sir we are Lucky to Get Efficient Ministers. What Else do we want. Thankyou In Advance.

[@eugeneteo9664]

steady lah future PM.

[@rogerjohnson898]

What an incredible, outstanding & insightful speech this was, not to mention the heartfelt sincerity in his speech that moved me profoundly! Singaporeans & the world alike, are blessed to hv a leader like Mr. Wong, soon to be PM of the nation!

[@2wwwilly]

Must start at kintergarden schools ..education minister ??

[@nathanchong7731]

0:08. Mr Wong expression change immediately !!

[@Mmerciful]

The speech was excellent. My only wish is that we get to address some of the apparent issues at the work place and at schools.... Through education or through legislation... Whatever needs to done.. If we need a Race discrimination Act to regulate behaviour and prevent discrimination at work and schools.... So be it.

[@angweengee2906]

Tripartite act?

[@renlybaratheon9683]

Singapore is a beautiful and well known country, these haters and racists should be punish before it get worst. Penalize these people so we won't end up like US and later on uses #STOPASIANHATE, where haters are asians too. Singapore, keep souring high.

[@toquan084]

Because they are influenced by American academics teaching CRITICAL RACE THEORY in Singapore universities.

[@jantjehouten5806]

Lol @ the whole PSA interjected with Ads. Just.... lol.

[@gotchie1591]

Its part of human behavior..which u cannot remove on each individual.. bec you cannot control other people what they think..

[@yummy90the2nd]

that's why Singapore is actually impressive, I mean look at how different Malaysia handled everything

[@eddymohd5282]

Due respect Sir, there's a few hiccups regarding this subject matter (Racial and Multi Religious) but it's progressively and prudently being uphold hormonisely. 🇸🇬🇸🇬🕊🕊🕊. Dated this 11 October 2022.

[@nomekoppcoiny1941]

Well said. No one religion, culture and race which is superior to others

[@farrahkong1998]

This is another way of saying the religion of others are inferior.

[@farrahkong1998]

Every religion, culture as well as race believes that its world system is the best. That's why people adhere to those values in the particular world. To say their belief is not superior than others is disrespectful. What we should do is to learn, accept, and tolerate the differences. Our ministers are advised by some who have dated knowledge.

[@nomekoppcoiny1941]

Not really hehe

[@Medicine-w3u]

I agreed what the minister had said. Ponder, everything in this world, there's a 'test' before we graduated, before we get rewarded. The multi racial of human race is a 'test' from our Creator, as how we manage ourselves by means of knowledge that we are different from other creations, particularly among animals. He created us of different race, is for us to know each other, to respect each other, acknowledge the wisdom of the Creator behind His deeds. What's God did is from His wisdom that no one could comprehend exactly, and that is understandable and should be. Otherwise, as though we could read His 'mind', which is impossible. If you don't like someone for whatever reasons, you don't have to show it. Try to understand others, don't judge. Do not import outside incident to local. Do not generalised every incident from one race, that they are all of them same, they are different. It's one's upbringing, education, values that they uphold, who they mixed with(surroundings), what they read, that constitute one's perspective. So understand one another, don't judge, don't made your own assumptions. Often, ignorance is the culprit of all stupidities. If you will like to summarise into one sentence to address racism is: "Respect and treat others, the way you want to be treated and respected". Singapore should be appreciated for their efforts to tackle racism in multi cultural societies, and should be the role-model of the world. God gave us this 'test'. Those who prepared their homework, sharpened their intelligence, will succeed and get rewarded. Blessings from God. Singapore is blessed. We will succeed together. "MAJULAH SINGAPURA"

[@tomyam88]

😁👍🏻

[@0157matt]

How about CECA ....

[@fc787761]

20 years ago, such jokes were considered funny because stereotypes exist for fun. Now, it’s so sensitive because harmony has broken and distrust is embedded in society.

[@m.bashirazmatkhan143]

Funny to you chinese but not us....what if the joke is on you?

[@fc787761]

U r not local I guess? Coz obviously u don’t understand the basis for what I said.

[@verapantever612]

Super speech for all races to build a multi racial society. Excellent!!

[@rosleeabdulaziz7733]

Very firm speech by DPM lawrence

[@TerenceLim121]

Balance your immigration policy to protect Singapore jobs.

[@eggplant240]

Stop foreigners coming in, you will see exactly how competitive it is without them. People need to stop being so arrogant.

[@beachboy12345]

Hey Channelnewsasia, why do you stuff a serious and important video like this with ads? Are you so desperate to milk every single advertising dollar from all of your content, irregardless of the subject matter?

[@beachboy12345]

I literally had to skip through 6 ads to watch the minister's speech! 🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️

[@rgseven6557]

Just curious, do you have an ad blocker? I installed one and it really helps block out these pesky ads.

[@beachboy12345]

@@rgseven6557 you can't use adblock on KZbin mobile app, which many people will be watching this on. But let us not miss the point here, and that is, there's an important message that's being delivered in this speech, and your viewers shouldn't be made to watch half a dozen ads to get to it.

[@Jack-hy2ki]

Huh? The ads are inserted by youtube not CNA. Complain youtube not CNA.

[@beachboy12345]

@@Jack-hy2ki no bro. CNA choose to put ads in videos. I can easily show u hundreds of videos without ads.

[@farrahkong1998]

After this, the majority will be more silent and look away as soon when they saw a member of minorities. LW is passionate though.

[@cholesterol804]

How would you know? It might be the opposite.

[@ConradSNIPER]

Please do not Farri-Farrah & anyhow think, anyhow imagine & anyhow write. Do you have a 8.5 maturity rating??

[@ConradSNIPER]

Your write out just make PEOPLE Kong Kong only.

[@ConradSNIPER]

This video have only 63k view. 5 millions more people in Singapore have yet to watch this vid !! 😭😭

[@doodlefiddle5373]

Lawrence wong put Malaysia to shame

[@kennylee9413]

Singapore is changing very fast, we are matured society and we have to adapted to changes. We need a brilliant mind to tackle them, like LKY but i afraid there is none now. We should accept the life style and open for discussion for better!

[@htahtoo8851]

Don't doubt the late LKY's wisdom of grooming his son for PM. Anyway, it's too late for regrets.

[@jahangirahmad8109]

True speech appreciated