Q2 part 1: How racial issues could divide the people.
What were the events that led to the race riots of 1964?
During July and September in 1964, two races riots took place in Singapore. The first Race Riots in July happened between the Chinese and the Malay on the Muhammad’s birthday and continue for a period of time. The second Race Riots happened on the 3rd September which was only a months after the first.
In 1964, Malays gathered together to celebrate the Muhammad’s birthday and during the way to Geylang, one of the group walk separately and was asked by a policeman to join back but they ignored the orders and attacked him. They also attacked the Chinese passer-by and spectators. Their action led to a race riots. The racial riots started at evening at about 5.00. A curfew was announced at 9.30 pm to stop the riots and to let people calm down. In the first of the riots, there were already four people being killed and 178 people were injured. On the next morning at 6, the curfew was lifted but order was not yet restored instead it grew even more tense. Thus, another curfew was set and was only lifted for people to buy food.
On August, the curfew was completely lifted and goodwill committees were set up to restore peace and harmony. It was made up of community leaders from various racial groups and they help out by listening to the resident’s concerns.
After a month, a second racial riot started. It started when a Malay trishaw-rider was found murdered and his attacker believed to be a group of Chinese. Troop and curfew was imposed to ease the tension between the Chinese and the Malay. After a few days, the tension eventually eased.
What were the consequences of the race riot?
Both country leaders were shocked by the racial violence and have often appeals for calm. During the July Race Riots, about 36 people lost their lives and 556 people were injured. Building and property were damaged and a total of 3000 people were arrested. During the September Race Riots, 13 people lost their lives and 480 people were arrested. ISA had arrested a number of people during the September riots. They also helped to control the violence in the country and to counter threats of communism or religious violence.
I feel that racial harmony is very important as it can bring peace to the country and it will not cause racial riots to happen again. That why, we celebrate racial harmony to let each other know the different races cultures and to live in harmony.
Credit: Wikipedia
From: ginnie
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
4) Why is it important to foster social cohesion?
Social cohesion is term used in social policy, sociology and political science to describe the bonds that bring people together in society.
Cohesion does not mean integration of the different ethnic groups and sharing of everything in common. Instead it is the widening of common grounds and developing of the respect and appreciation for their cultural diversity.
We need to instill individuals with a sense of belonging to Singapore and the feeling that they are recognized as members of our country. Everyone has to learn to accept diversity and manage conflicts as we need a society where workplaces are fair, where the voices of workers are respected and people can express their views without fear of acrimony.
Actually, meritocracy enforces social cohesion; providing equal chances for different people to excel. Besides that, everyone should have a good understanding of the importance of social unity.
As Singapore becomes more globalised and cosmopolitan, the shape and composition of our society also changes. Residents in Singapore not only comprise Chinese, Malays, Indians and the other minority racial groups but we also have a mix of residents hailing from all over the world. Shared values such as respect, responsibility and harmony would play an important role in fostering understanding and promoting harmonious relationships among the different communities living in our city-state. The society has provided opportunities for social interactions, which prove that co-existence is not multi-racial, but the enjoyment of each other’s company.
As we progress together, it is important to create platforms for maximizing the potential of people so that together, we can contribute towards the development of Singapore (social, economical and political).
“If in the four different languages of instructions we teach our children our four different standards of right and wrong, four different ideal patterns of behavior, then we will produce four different groups of people and there will be no integrated coherent society”
I totally agree with that sentence.
Fostering social cohesion is really very important.
In order to work together, agree with each other, social cohesion is the first step.
Some people do not agree with one another and thus, disputes and conflicts are brought up.
That is sometimes due to the lack of social interaction.
We really can't just stand there and watch people quarrel...
We have to do something about it.
And that is FOSTERING SOCIAL COHESION!
Credits (ideas from):
www.dictionary.com
http://www.cprn.com/documents/19422_en.pdf8
http://www.geocities.com/decheng/cohesion.htm
Mr Lee Kuan Yew
Debbie(: (o6)
Social cohesion is term used in social policy, sociology and political science to describe the bonds that bring people together in society.
Cohesion does not mean integration of the different ethnic groups and sharing of everything in common. Instead it is the widening of common grounds and developing of the respect and appreciation for their cultural diversity.
We need to instill individuals with a sense of belonging to Singapore and the feeling that they are recognized as members of our country. Everyone has to learn to accept diversity and manage conflicts as we need a society where workplaces are fair, where the voices of workers are respected and people can express their views without fear of acrimony.
Actually, meritocracy enforces social cohesion; providing equal chances for different people to excel. Besides that, everyone should have a good understanding of the importance of social unity.
As Singapore becomes more globalised and cosmopolitan, the shape and composition of our society also changes. Residents in Singapore not only comprise Chinese, Malays, Indians and the other minority racial groups but we also have a mix of residents hailing from all over the world. Shared values such as respect, responsibility and harmony would play an important role in fostering understanding and promoting harmonious relationships among the different communities living in our city-state. The society has provided opportunities for social interactions, which prove that co-existence is not multi-racial, but the enjoyment of each other’s company.
As we progress together, it is important to create platforms for maximizing the potential of people so that together, we can contribute towards the development of Singapore (social, economical and political).
“If in the four different languages of instructions we teach our children our four different standards of right and wrong, four different ideal patterns of behavior, then we will produce four different groups of people and there will be no integrated coherent society”
I totally agree with that sentence.
Fostering social cohesion is really very important.
In order to work together, agree with each other, social cohesion is the first step.
Some people do not agree with one another and thus, disputes and conflicts are brought up.
That is sometimes due to the lack of social interaction.
We really can't just stand there and watch people quarrel...
We have to do something about it.
And that is FOSTERING SOCIAL COHESION!
Credits (ideas from):
www.dictionary.com
http://www.cprn.com/documents/19422_en.pdf8
http://www.geocities.com/decheng/cohesion.htm
Mr Lee Kuan Yew
Debbie(: (o6)
Monday, September 1, 2008
5) Explore other ways to foster social cohesion in Singapore
5) Explore other ways to foster social cohesion in Singapore
'Fostering social cohesion'; what actually comes into your mind when you first look at these words? To 'Foster' actually means to bring up with care;rear. To help to grow, develop or to cling in one’s mind. 'Social' is a word for having to do with human beings living together as a group in a situation in which their dealings with one another affect their common welfare social consciousness, social problems. While 'cohesion' means the act or condition of cohering; tendency to stick together, in terms of bot, the union of like flower parts, while, in terms of physic, the force by which the molecules of a substance are held together. [Get from www.yourdictionary.com]. Hence, if we bring these three words together we have got the word foster social cohesion; we can explain this as caring on another in the society and have bonding between one another, to bring people together as one.
As Singapore is a multi-racial nation, it is important to have social cohesion. Without social cohesion, the different religious groups will have disputes and thus lead to the decline of our economy. To prevent this, the government has used various ways such as campaigns and activities conducted by the community centres to bring together the different religions. Some intricate problems that are likely to be brought by social division are riots and tension. Social problems such as these will lead to the political and economic problems. Examples of such are the Sinhalese and the Indians in Sri Lanka, and also the ongoing conflict between the Tibetans and China. Singapore,being a small state cannot afford to risk this. So we need foster social cohesion. But, the question is;how can it be promoted?
Social cohesion can be promoted by a few ways; delivering service and being a positive presence for the entire community, working with vulnerable groups, offering empowerment, protection to individuals and the community through a right base approach. Responding to the changes, actively promote economic and social justice, the resurgence of democratic governance, innovations in social protection and social inclusion policies, attention to the demographic transition that the region is currently undergoing.
Okay, so now, we have the ways to promote foster social cohesion, but there’s another question. What can we do to make sure that the 'foster social cohesion'ways are working? We’ll need the following factors to actually ensure that 'foster social cohesion is performing, like, legislative and political support to allow social work to make a positive contribution to social cohesion, personal support for the challenges undertake on behalf of society, a flexible organization context that allows a creative and proactive response to peoples, families, communities and society, recognition of their roles as analysts and experts in working with systems through critical practice and social action, last but not least, empowerment to practice; including the space time, resource and autonomy to work with system, society and social action.
Of course, these may not be all the solutions to promote foster social cohesion, I am certain that there are more others ways of promoting it. But in order to keep the foster social cohesion running, we will need everyone to play their parts or roles in the community, as the community doesn’t only takes one to be in it. It takes everyone to participate in it, and hence to ensure the economy rising, no dispute in the country and so. EVERYONE PLAYS A PART IN PARTICIPATING IN ENSURING THAT THE COUNTRY IS DOING WELL IN FOSTER SOCIAL COHESION.
credits :)
http://www.ifsw.org/cm_data/special_insert_July_2007.pdf
http://www.iadb.org/sds/doc/SDS_A_Look_to_the_Future.pdf
aijia (09)
'Fostering social cohesion'; what actually comes into your mind when you first look at these words? To 'Foster' actually means to bring up with care;rear. To help to grow, develop or to cling in one’s mind. 'Social' is a word for having to do with human beings living together as a group in a situation in which their dealings with one another affect their common welfare social consciousness, social problems. While 'cohesion' means the act or condition of cohering; tendency to stick together, in terms of bot, the union of like flower parts, while, in terms of physic, the force by which the molecules of a substance are held together. [Get from www.yourdictionary.com]. Hence, if we bring these three words together we have got the word foster social cohesion; we can explain this as caring on another in the society and have bonding between one another, to bring people together as one.
As Singapore is a multi-racial nation, it is important to have social cohesion. Without social cohesion, the different religious groups will have disputes and thus lead to the decline of our economy. To prevent this, the government has used various ways such as campaigns and activities conducted by the community centres to bring together the different religions. Some intricate problems that are likely to be brought by social division are riots and tension. Social problems such as these will lead to the political and economic problems. Examples of such are the Sinhalese and the Indians in Sri Lanka, and also the ongoing conflict between the Tibetans and China. Singapore,being a small state cannot afford to risk this. So we need foster social cohesion. But, the question is;how can it be promoted?
Social cohesion can be promoted by a few ways; delivering service and being a positive presence for the entire community, working with vulnerable groups, offering empowerment, protection to individuals and the community through a right base approach. Responding to the changes, actively promote economic and social justice, the resurgence of democratic governance, innovations in social protection and social inclusion policies, attention to the demographic transition that the region is currently undergoing.
Okay, so now, we have the ways to promote foster social cohesion, but there’s another question. What can we do to make sure that the 'foster social cohesion'ways are working? We’ll need the following factors to actually ensure that 'foster social cohesion is performing, like, legislative and political support to allow social work to make a positive contribution to social cohesion, personal support for the challenges undertake on behalf of society, a flexible organization context that allows a creative and proactive response to peoples, families, communities and society, recognition of their roles as analysts and experts in working with systems through critical practice and social action, last but not least, empowerment to practice; including the space time, resource and autonomy to work with system, society and social action.
Of course, these may not be all the solutions to promote foster social cohesion, I am certain that there are more others ways of promoting it. But in order to keep the foster social cohesion running, we will need everyone to play their parts or roles in the community, as the community doesn’t only takes one to be in it. It takes everyone to participate in it, and hence to ensure the economy rising, no dispute in the country and so. EVERYONE PLAYS A PART IN PARTICIPATING IN ENSURING THAT THE COUNTRY IS DOING WELL IN FOSTER SOCIAL COHESION.
credits :)
http://www.ifsw.org/cm_data/special_insert_July_2007.pdf
http://www.iadb.org/sds/doc/SDS_A_Look_to_the_Future.pdf
aijia (09)
Thursday, August 28, 2008
#2- Part 2- How Religious Issues could divide the people What were the events that led to the Maria Hertogh riots?
Maria Hertogh was born in 1937 to a Dutch Catholic family, who were living in Bandung, Java which was then a part of the Dutch East Indies. When the World War II broke out, her father, Sergeant Hertogh was captured by the Imperial Japanese army and sent to a Prisoner Of War holding facility in Japan, where he stayed till the end of the war. Meanwhile, his wife, Adeline Hertogh had stayed with her mother, Nor Louise, and her five children.
Maria was the third child, and the youngest daughter. Three days after her mother had given birth to another son, Maria went to stay with Aminah Binte Mohammad, a 42-year-old woman who was a close friend of Nor Louise.
According to Adeline Hertogh, when she had given her testimony in the court battle for Maria in November 1950, Adeline had allowed Maria to stay with Aminah for three to four days by her mother. Aminah had collected Maria on the New Year’s day in 1943. When Maria was not returned to her, Mrs. Hertogh had borrowed a bicycle to go and collect her daughter personally. She claimed that she was arrested by a Japanese sentry at the outskirts of Bandung, for she did not possess a pass and was therefore interned. In her interment camp, she managed to smuggle a letter to her mother, requesting to see her children. Nor Louise had done so, but Maria was not among the children sent. Mrs. Hertogh then asked her mother to collect Maria on her behalf. Her mother had replied saying that Aminah would keep Maria for 2 more days, before sending her to the camp personally.
However, this did not occur and Mrs. Hertogh did not see Maria during her internment. Upon her release, she was unable to find Maria or Aminah. However, Aminah’s testimony differs from Adeline Hertogh’s testimony. Aminah claimed that Mrs. Hertogh had given Maria up for adoption to her. She had assured Mrs. Hertogh that she would treat Maria as her own child, and that Maria would be raised in Muslim faith. This was apparently not a problem as Adeline Hertogh was also raised in Muslim faith. Aminah’s testimony had also contested Mrs. Hertogh’s internment with the Japanese army. Aminah claimed that Mrs. Hertogh and her had remained in contact until Mrs. Hertogh had left for Surabaya, “at the end of 1943 or the beginning of 1944”, after of which the two had never seen each other again. Maria Hertogh had her cicumcision in late 1943, where she was given the name Nadra. Her family, for unknown reasons, had opted to move to Jakarta for a period , then returning to Bandung, where Aminah worked for the Japanese police as an interpreter, until the end of the war.
In 1947, in fears of the Indonesian National Revolution for Maria as Maria was a “white child”, Aminah moved the family to her hometown of Kenaman, in Teregganu state, than called Malaya. By then Maria was the same as other Muslim girls. At the end of the war, Maria’s father, Sergeant Hertogh was released, and he returned to Java, where he reunited with his wife . They, being unable to find Maria on their own, had requested Dutch authorities in South East Asia to try to locate their child. They traced Maria and Aminah to the Kampong where they lived in.
In 1949, Adeline Hertogh came to claim her daughter back. Maria’s case was brought to the High Court in Singapore, and she was placed under the care of the Social Welfare Department. In May 1950, the court had ruled that Maria was to be returned to her parents, but Aminah had sent an appeal . The Court had found a small but significant technical detail wrong. The court then ruled that Maria to be returned to Aminah. On 1st august 1950, Maria had married a 22- year-old Mansoor Adabi, a malay teacher, when she was only 13-years-old. This marriage is assumed to be a maneuver by Aminah to prevent the Court and the Hertoghs from getting Maria back, as Maria had returned to Maria after the Wedding Night, and the couple never consummated. In November 1950, the battle for custody continued- The court had Maria returned to her parents. The Judge had stated that the Dutch Law did not recognize Maria’s marriage as she was underage, and her natural father’s consent had not been given. It was this that had antagonized the Muslim Community- They felt that the Muslim Law had not been considered. Maria was sent to the care of a Catholic Convent. This move was supposed to make things of greater convenience to everyone- however was the spark to the riots. The media was permitted to enter the convent, which had painted the controversial to the public- Maria was taken to be lonely and sad, being comforted by a nun- but another picture showed her having knelt at the Virgin Mary’s feet.
It was this, that had truly started the Maria Hertogh riots. Aminah had, once again, appealed, but this time it was rejected only after 5 minutes. The crowd of 3’000 that had gathered outside the Padang for the verdict felt betrayed by the British for having taken sides with the Dutch, the supporters of Aminah began to riot. Every European and Eurasian in sight was attacked. The riots had continued for 3 days, and a curfew was imposed for 2 weeks. 18 people were killed and 173 were injured.
[What were the consequences of the riots?]
Many people in Singapore had lost faith in their colonial masters- they felt that the law of the local religion was not respected, and that their colonial masters had, instead of allowing Maria her decision of staying with Aminah, had chosen to “pamper” the Dutch and sided with them just to keep the peace between the two countries- and causing riots in another as the price. The riots were clearly an expression of anti-British feelings.
[What were the lessons learnt from the riots?]
The Lessons learnt- Firstly , that all facets of the case should be considered before making a rash decision. In this scenario, the High Court had made too many rash indecisions, and had not considered the general public’s point if view.
Secondly, it was clear that the Court had not considered the reactions that the decision to declare that they did not take the Muslim Law into account, and by doing so, Muslim were easily antagonized into thinking that the British were “racist” in a way to them. So, the second lesson would be to respect every religion’s rules, and try to apply them in the usual laws. This is especially important in Singapore, as Singapore is Multi-racial, and has many different cultures and religions here.
[Why do people react sensitively to religious issues?]
I believe that most people are sensitive to religious issues for one main reason- Faith. As many people will have many different beliefs, most of the time the beliefs will collide and conflicts occur. Belief comes from History, in a way- Our modern beliefs have rich history- on when the ‘saint’ was born. What his life story was, what he did that made him great, were all recorded. But no one is able to verify and conclude that this version of his life is the truth. Why? History is always written by the winners. History can be edited by greedy minds who want to supposedly be connected to the ‘Saint’, or by people who want to show people that their theory is right. History may not always be what really happened. Back to the subject- As beliefs come from History, and the different theories collide, no one can truly say that even the beliefs were not, at one time, NOT edited. For all we know, anything is possible. Due to the different beliefs, people are also unwilling to accept any other than the one they were raised to believe in. This makes people even more agitated when the belief itself is under question. I am a Buddhist, from my parents. If you were to tell me that Buddha did not exist at all, and that history was always wrong, even I would be skeptical. [ This is not possible though, as there are many records of his ministeries. ] Who am I to say others would not? If I was to say that Jesus did not exist, people would not believe what i said, even for a second- they have faith in their belief which they were raised in, and no one would be able to change it. A case study of my own that I like to point out –
The Da Vinci Code- an international bestseller, that ahs raised eyebrows with it’s controversial ideas. Having read the Da Vinci Code, I have only so much to say- all the ‘facts’ in the Da Vinci Code may not be accurate, but I do believe that Jesus had a wife- every man has a right hand woman, no? As much I want to believe that Jesus had a family, most likely that theory is wrong- I just want to believe that then in the ancient times, and now in the modern times, that women have an equal footing in society with men. I guess I am a feminist… in fact the only story I hate in the bible is Genesis- Why did Eve have to eat the apple, and cause the concept of 'original sin'? And just how did god make a woman from a man? I end my reflection, with my main point as my ending- Religious issues are sensitive to humans, as we believe that our faith, which we were raised to believe in, the belief of our fathers, is the ‘truth’, for we are unable to accept that our faith may be wrong, which is why FAITH, in the end is what really makes our heart fear the unknown, which is ironic, as there is so much about faith that is unknown.
CREDITS!!!
Most of the INFORMATION i used here is from Wikipedia, and from my Secondary Two Text book. Kudos to the people who wrote it. +) PLUS! Here is a link to the criticism from people who disliked Da Vinci Code, though it's fun to read now and then. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criticisms_of_The_Da_Vinci_Code
[AbiGaiL SenG- 3-10. +) i checked it personally. But PLEASE if any grammar errors, inform me.& One MORE thing! This was written on my Macbook, so it's american english. ]
Maria Hertogh was born in 1937 to a Dutch Catholic family, who were living in Bandung, Java which was then a part of the Dutch East Indies. When the World War II broke out, her father, Sergeant Hertogh was captured by the Imperial Japanese army and sent to a Prisoner Of War holding facility in Japan, where he stayed till the end of the war. Meanwhile, his wife, Adeline Hertogh had stayed with her mother, Nor Louise, and her five children.
Maria was the third child, and the youngest daughter. Three days after her mother had given birth to another son, Maria went to stay with Aminah Binte Mohammad, a 42-year-old woman who was a close friend of Nor Louise.
According to Adeline Hertogh, when she had given her testimony in the court battle for Maria in November 1950, Adeline had allowed Maria to stay with Aminah for three to four days by her mother. Aminah had collected Maria on the New Year’s day in 1943. When Maria was not returned to her, Mrs. Hertogh had borrowed a bicycle to go and collect her daughter personally. She claimed that she was arrested by a Japanese sentry at the outskirts of Bandung, for she did not possess a pass and was therefore interned. In her interment camp, she managed to smuggle a letter to her mother, requesting to see her children. Nor Louise had done so, but Maria was not among the children sent. Mrs. Hertogh then asked her mother to collect Maria on her behalf. Her mother had replied saying that Aminah would keep Maria for 2 more days, before sending her to the camp personally.
However, this did not occur and Mrs. Hertogh did not see Maria during her internment. Upon her release, she was unable to find Maria or Aminah. However, Aminah’s testimony differs from Adeline Hertogh’s testimony. Aminah claimed that Mrs. Hertogh had given Maria up for adoption to her. She had assured Mrs. Hertogh that she would treat Maria as her own child, and that Maria would be raised in Muslim faith. This was apparently not a problem as Adeline Hertogh was also raised in Muslim faith. Aminah’s testimony had also contested Mrs. Hertogh’s internment with the Japanese army. Aminah claimed that Mrs. Hertogh and her had remained in contact until Mrs. Hertogh had left for Surabaya, “at the end of 1943 or the beginning of 1944”, after of which the two had never seen each other again. Maria Hertogh had her cicumcision in late 1943, where she was given the name Nadra. Her family, for unknown reasons, had opted to move to Jakarta for a period , then returning to Bandung, where Aminah worked for the Japanese police as an interpreter, until the end of the war.
In 1947, in fears of the Indonesian National Revolution for Maria as Maria was a “white child”, Aminah moved the family to her hometown of Kenaman, in Teregganu state, than called Malaya. By then Maria was the same as other Muslim girls. At the end of the war, Maria’s father, Sergeant Hertogh was released, and he returned to Java, where he reunited with his wife . They, being unable to find Maria on their own, had requested Dutch authorities in South East Asia to try to locate their child. They traced Maria and Aminah to the Kampong where they lived in.
In 1949, Adeline Hertogh came to claim her daughter back. Maria’s case was brought to the High Court in Singapore, and she was placed under the care of the Social Welfare Department. In May 1950, the court had ruled that Maria was to be returned to her parents, but Aminah had sent an appeal . The Court had found a small but significant technical detail wrong. The court then ruled that Maria to be returned to Aminah. On 1st august 1950, Maria had married a 22- year-old Mansoor Adabi, a malay teacher, when she was only 13-years-old. This marriage is assumed to be a maneuver by Aminah to prevent the Court and the Hertoghs from getting Maria back, as Maria had returned to Maria after the Wedding Night, and the couple never consummated. In November 1950, the battle for custody continued- The court had Maria returned to her parents. The Judge had stated that the Dutch Law did not recognize Maria’s marriage as she was underage, and her natural father’s consent had not been given. It was this that had antagonized the Muslim Community- They felt that the Muslim Law had not been considered. Maria was sent to the care of a Catholic Convent. This move was supposed to make things of greater convenience to everyone- however was the spark to the riots. The media was permitted to enter the convent, which had painted the controversial to the public- Maria was taken to be lonely and sad, being comforted by a nun- but another picture showed her having knelt at the Virgin Mary’s feet.
It was this, that had truly started the Maria Hertogh riots. Aminah had, once again, appealed, but this time it was rejected only after 5 minutes. The crowd of 3’000 that had gathered outside the Padang for the verdict felt betrayed by the British for having taken sides with the Dutch, the supporters of Aminah began to riot. Every European and Eurasian in sight was attacked. The riots had continued for 3 days, and a curfew was imposed for 2 weeks. 18 people were killed and 173 were injured.
[What were the consequences of the riots?]
Many people in Singapore had lost faith in their colonial masters- they felt that the law of the local religion was not respected, and that their colonial masters had, instead of allowing Maria her decision of staying with Aminah, had chosen to “pamper” the Dutch and sided with them just to keep the peace between the two countries- and causing riots in another as the price. The riots were clearly an expression of anti-British feelings.
[What were the lessons learnt from the riots?]
The Lessons learnt- Firstly , that all facets of the case should be considered before making a rash decision. In this scenario, the High Court had made too many rash indecisions, and had not considered the general public’s point if view.
Secondly, it was clear that the Court had not considered the reactions that the decision to declare that they did not take the Muslim Law into account, and by doing so, Muslim were easily antagonized into thinking that the British were “racist” in a way to them. So, the second lesson would be to respect every religion’s rules, and try to apply them in the usual laws. This is especially important in Singapore, as Singapore is Multi-racial, and has many different cultures and religions here.
[Why do people react sensitively to religious issues?]
I believe that most people are sensitive to religious issues for one main reason- Faith. As many people will have many different beliefs, most of the time the beliefs will collide and conflicts occur. Belief comes from History, in a way- Our modern beliefs have rich history- on when the ‘saint’ was born. What his life story was, what he did that made him great, were all recorded. But no one is able to verify and conclude that this version of his life is the truth. Why? History is always written by the winners. History can be edited by greedy minds who want to supposedly be connected to the ‘Saint’, or by people who want to show people that their theory is right. History may not always be what really happened. Back to the subject- As beliefs come from History, and the different theories collide, no one can truly say that even the beliefs were not, at one time, NOT edited. For all we know, anything is possible. Due to the different beliefs, people are also unwilling to accept any other than the one they were raised to believe in. This makes people even more agitated when the belief itself is under question. I am a Buddhist, from my parents. If you were to tell me that Buddha did not exist at all, and that history was always wrong, even I would be skeptical. [ This is not possible though, as there are many records of his ministeries. ] Who am I to say others would not? If I was to say that Jesus did not exist, people would not believe what i said, even for a second- they have faith in their belief which they were raised in, and no one would be able to change it. A case study of my own that I like to point out –
The Da Vinci Code- an international bestseller, that ahs raised eyebrows with it’s controversial ideas. Having read the Da Vinci Code, I have only so much to say- all the ‘facts’ in the Da Vinci Code may not be accurate, but I do believe that Jesus had a wife- every man has a right hand woman, no? As much I want to believe that Jesus had a family, most likely that theory is wrong- I just want to believe that then in the ancient times, and now in the modern times, that women have an equal footing in society with men. I guess I am a feminist… in fact the only story I hate in the bible is Genesis- Why did Eve have to eat the apple, and cause the concept of 'original sin'? And just how did god make a woman from a man? I end my reflection, with my main point as my ending- Religious issues are sensitive to humans, as we believe that our faith, which we were raised to believe in, the belief of our fathers, is the ‘truth’, for we are unable to accept that our faith may be wrong, which is why FAITH, in the end is what really makes our heart fear the unknown, which is ironic, as there is so much about faith that is unknown.
CREDITS!!!
Most of the INFORMATION i used here is from Wikipedia, and from my Secondary Two Text book. Kudos to the people who wrote it. +) PLUS! Here is a link to the criticism from people who disliked Da Vinci Code, though it's fun to read now and then. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criticisms_of_The_Da_Vinci_Code
[AbiGaiL SenG- 3-10. +) i checked it personally. But PLEASE if any grammar errors, inform me.& One MORE thing! This was written on my Macbook, so it's american english. ]
3) WHAT ARE THE MEASURES TAKEN TO FOSTER SOCIAL COHESION (UNITY AMONG THE PEOPLE) IN MULTI-ETHNIC SINGAPORE?
Singapore, as a multi-ethnic country, is likely to face difficulties trying to bond different races together and to form a common identity for all Singaporeans. No matter the difficulty, Singaporeans have to overcome these obstacles together. Our government and the people have done an immensely good job in fostering Social Cohesion in this multi-ethnic Singapore over the years.
Equal opportunities for everyone One of the guiding principles of governance is “A STAKE FOR EVERYONE, OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL”. This allows every Singaporeans to have a say in the decision-making of Singapore. With this policy, all Singaporeans will develop a greater sense of belonging to this country. Another guiding principle of governance is “REWARD FOR WORK AND WORK FOR REWARD”.
The Key factor is Meritocracy-This rewards people based on hard work and talents rather than race or religion. The Number One rule of fostering social cohesion is: not to be biased to any ethnic group.
The community has been getting Singaporeans to contribute their ideas, time and energy to build a better Singapore and to develop a greater sense of ownership and belonging. They can contribute to the community, neighbourhood, arts and sports. Sports build character, cultivate resilience and promote a healthy lifestyle. Other than that, sports bonds people of different backgrounds and also boost national pride. Singapore 21 Vision was launched to guide Singaporeans through challenges that we will be facing in the 21st century. Its purpose is to strengthen the ’heartware’ of Singapore. The term ‘heartware’ can refer to attitudes, social cohesion and political stability. The Singapore 21 Vision aims to urge more people to come forward to share and argue their points of view. There are few ways which people can share their thoughts. People can write to the newspapers in the forum page, public forum and in the Speaker’s Corner in the CBD.
I believe that the minority from humble family backgrounds were, and are afraid of being unable to cope with a developed Singapore. Frankly, they do not have to worry about all that. The government draws out plans to increase the social mobility for Singaporeans with lower income. Subsidies were given to their children based on the parents’ monthly salary. Our government establishes a “Home Ownership Plus Education (HOPE) scheme to help family keep their family small and to divert the family’s attention on their resources on uplifting their children. The disabled are not forgotten. Our government has drawn out plans to improve access to technology, public transport and jobs to assist them. There are voluntary welfare organizations here in this society to provide support programmed for the disables. Ministry of Community, Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) was set up to encourage mutual respect of the diversity of ethnic and religious groups.
In school, we learn and play with our schoolmates of different races. It is a must for everyone to have their co-curricular activities (CCA). Through CCA, we are able to learn new things and make new friends. Take me as an example; through my CCA, which is table tennis, I knew one of my good friends who is an Indian. We get along very well. We do not have any difficulty communicating with each other as we have a common language which is English. Hence, misunderstandings can be easily resolved. Schools will organize cultural week, camps, excursion, for every student. My school’s cultural week is held the forthcoming week after all the common tests. We have annual camp to create bonds between the students. This is considered a great opportunity to stay outside with friends and avoid all those nagging that we usually get at home. Through these camps, we can know more about what your best friends do at home. Excursion can enhance our knowledge of other cultures. What do I mean by that? I remember one of the excursions to Little India organized by my primary school. Although it was a few years back, I still have a vivid knowledge about the trip. I remember a temple situated in one of the roads in Little India. The temple was named as Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. It was dedicated to the Hindus Goddess Kali, the consort of Shiva(Goddess of peace). The name “Veeramakaliamman” means courageous. Indian goldsmiths were well respected as they were the image makers of the gods. Navarethinam is related to our solar system. Can you guess what I’m insinuating?? Navarethinam is a ring encrusted with different gems which represents our solar system.
Teachers like to “throw” projects at us, demanding teamwork. In fact, this reflection is for my Social Studies Project. When we do project work, we get a chance to interact with our group mates. Other than that, we will be able to discover our strengths and weaknesses.
A key event in the Singapore Calendar is Racial Harmony Day. Every year, schools celebrate Racial Harmony Day, which reminds everyone to be respectful to other ethnic groups. On the day itself, students will be able to wear their traditional costumes to school, showing Singapore’s diversity. I have also seen that some students take the initiative to wear different ethnic costumes as well.
Community Looking back at my childhood days, I remember that my mother would bring me to the void decks of my flat or nearby blocks whenever there is a celebration. It could be the New Year’s Celebration, Chinese New Year’s Celebration, Hari Raya Haji’s Celebration or Christmas Day’s Celebration. The Housing Development Board (HDB) flats enable us to interact with people living in the same block. A few years back, my Malay neighbour invited my family to attend their daughter’s wedding ceremony. I had adhered to their traditional way of eating even though there was cutlery available. The community clubs organize activities for people of different age groups to participate frequently. During my secondary one Community Involvement Programme (CIP), I was instructed to give out goodies bags for residents who have completed their Walk-A-Jog activity. I noticed that different people of different ages and races had willingly taken some of their free time to interact with each other over the activity.
In my opinion, everyone plays a part in fostering social cohesion among different ethnic groups. This is what that bonds Singapore together, in the past and the present, and I hope the future too.
Written by- JosceLin Edited/Grammar Checked by- AbiGaiL
Singapore, as a multi-ethnic country, is likely to face difficulties trying to bond different races together and to form a common identity for all Singaporeans. No matter the difficulty, Singaporeans have to overcome these obstacles together. Our government and the people have done an immensely good job in fostering Social Cohesion in this multi-ethnic Singapore over the years.
Equal opportunities for everyone One of the guiding principles of governance is “A STAKE FOR EVERYONE, OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL”. This allows every Singaporeans to have a say in the decision-making of Singapore. With this policy, all Singaporeans will develop a greater sense of belonging to this country. Another guiding principle of governance is “REWARD FOR WORK AND WORK FOR REWARD”.
The Key factor is Meritocracy-This rewards people based on hard work and talents rather than race or religion. The Number One rule of fostering social cohesion is: not to be biased to any ethnic group.
The community has been getting Singaporeans to contribute their ideas, time and energy to build a better Singapore and to develop a greater sense of ownership and belonging. They can contribute to the community, neighbourhood, arts and sports. Sports build character, cultivate resilience and promote a healthy lifestyle. Other than that, sports bonds people of different backgrounds and also boost national pride. Singapore 21 Vision was launched to guide Singaporeans through challenges that we will be facing in the 21st century. Its purpose is to strengthen the ’heartware’ of Singapore. The term ‘heartware’ can refer to attitudes, social cohesion and political stability. The Singapore 21 Vision aims to urge more people to come forward to share and argue their points of view. There are few ways which people can share their thoughts. People can write to the newspapers in the forum page, public forum and in the Speaker’s Corner in the CBD.
I believe that the minority from humble family backgrounds were, and are afraid of being unable to cope with a developed Singapore. Frankly, they do not have to worry about all that. The government draws out plans to increase the social mobility for Singaporeans with lower income. Subsidies were given to their children based on the parents’ monthly salary. Our government establishes a “Home Ownership Plus Education (HOPE) scheme to help family keep their family small and to divert the family’s attention on their resources on uplifting their children. The disabled are not forgotten. Our government has drawn out plans to improve access to technology, public transport and jobs to assist them. There are voluntary welfare organizations here in this society to provide support programmed for the disables. Ministry of Community, Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) was set up to encourage mutual respect of the diversity of ethnic and religious groups.
In school, we learn and play with our schoolmates of different races. It is a must for everyone to have their co-curricular activities (CCA). Through CCA, we are able to learn new things and make new friends. Take me as an example; through my CCA, which is table tennis, I knew one of my good friends who is an Indian. We get along very well. We do not have any difficulty communicating with each other as we have a common language which is English. Hence, misunderstandings can be easily resolved. Schools will organize cultural week, camps, excursion, for every student. My school’s cultural week is held the forthcoming week after all the common tests. We have annual camp to create bonds between the students. This is considered a great opportunity to stay outside with friends and avoid all those nagging that we usually get at home. Through these camps, we can know more about what your best friends do at home. Excursion can enhance our knowledge of other cultures. What do I mean by that? I remember one of the excursions to Little India organized by my primary school. Although it was a few years back, I still have a vivid knowledge about the trip. I remember a temple situated in one of the roads in Little India. The temple was named as Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. It was dedicated to the Hindus Goddess Kali, the consort of Shiva(Goddess of peace). The name “Veeramakaliamman” means courageous. Indian goldsmiths were well respected as they were the image makers of the gods. Navarethinam is related to our solar system. Can you guess what I’m insinuating?? Navarethinam is a ring encrusted with different gems which represents our solar system.
Teachers like to “throw” projects at us, demanding teamwork. In fact, this reflection is for my Social Studies Project. When we do project work, we get a chance to interact with our group mates. Other than that, we will be able to discover our strengths and weaknesses.
A key event in the Singapore Calendar is Racial Harmony Day. Every year, schools celebrate Racial Harmony Day, which reminds everyone to be respectful to other ethnic groups. On the day itself, students will be able to wear their traditional costumes to school, showing Singapore’s diversity. I have also seen that some students take the initiative to wear different ethnic costumes as well.
Community Looking back at my childhood days, I remember that my mother would bring me to the void decks of my flat or nearby blocks whenever there is a celebration. It could be the New Year’s Celebration, Chinese New Year’s Celebration, Hari Raya Haji’s Celebration or Christmas Day’s Celebration. The Housing Development Board (HDB) flats enable us to interact with people living in the same block. A few years back, my Malay neighbour invited my family to attend their daughter’s wedding ceremony. I had adhered to their traditional way of eating even though there was cutlery available. The community clubs organize activities for people of different age groups to participate frequently. During my secondary one Community Involvement Programme (CIP), I was instructed to give out goodies bags for residents who have completed their Walk-A-Jog activity. I noticed that different people of different ages and races had willingly taken some of their free time to interact with each other over the activity.
In my opinion, everyone plays a part in fostering social cohesion among different ethnic groups. This is what that bonds Singapore together, in the past and the present, and I hope the future too.
Written by- JosceLin Edited/Grammar Checked by- AbiGaiL
1）HOW DIFFERENT ARE WE?
Although Singapore is just a tiny dot on the map, it encompasses immense dreams and goals of all Singaporeans. Being a small country, we have our own weaknesses and strengths. Singapore does not have any natural resources but we have overtaken many other countries. So, what exactly is our secret weapon?? WE HAVE TALENTS! In school, I learn and play with my Malay and Indian friends even though I’m a Chinese. What makes us united as one Singapore? We respect each races, religion and culture! We can’t see all these in other countries and this is what that has made us unique. I could say, Singapore’s economy have come this far because we do not see riots and conflicts within this island. Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Europeans [more accurately westerners] are the four main races in Singapore. Singapore itself gives us opportunities to interact with each other through work, school and activities, in all ages and generations. Although, Chinese people speak Mandarin, Malays speak Malay, Indian speaks Tamil, but we are still able to communicate with one another. We have a common language which unites different ethnic groups, that is English, the international language of communication. However, here in Singapore, we give English a run for its money.
Why? Here in Singapore, you will see a localized anomaly- Singlish. I’m a Chinese but I do use some Malay languages in my conversation. Here are some examples: “Do you want to have our lunch here?” “No, I have makan le, you have better chope a seat before someone does.” “Are you done with your homework?” “I have not completed yet, the questions were so cheem.” A special and unique language from different languages and dialects, which represents the true spirit of Singapore. There are Hindus, Muslims or Sikhs in the Indian population. The Chinese are predominantly followers of Buddhist, Taoist, Christians, Catholics and ‘free-thinkers’. Malays were Muslims.
In Singapore, we have a few notable areas based on the races that resided there during colonial times. We have Chinatown for the Chinese, Little India for the Indians, Arab Street for the Malays and few significant buildings in the Central business district for the European. These sites were not meant to discriminate or differentiate the ethnic groups. It was meant for other purposes. If you are an India immigrant, you can visit the Little India if you miss your hometown. This applies to all races. I remember one of the excursions to Little India organized by my primary school. It enhances our stark understanding of Indian culture.
Old temples, modern churches, exotic mosques are buildings that are worth for art appreciation.
Although Singapore is just a tiny dot on the map, it encompasses immense dreams and goals of all Singaporeans. Being a small country, we have our own weaknesses and strengths. Singapore does not have any natural resources but we have overtaken many other countries. So, what exactly is our secret weapon?? WE HAVE TALENTS! In school, I learn and play with my Malay and Indian friends even though I’m a Chinese. What makes us united as one Singapore? We respect each races, religion and culture! We can’t see all these in other countries and this is what that has made us unique. I could say, Singapore’s economy have come this far because we do not see riots and conflicts within this island. Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Europeans [more accurately westerners] are the four main races in Singapore. Singapore itself gives us opportunities to interact with each other through work, school and activities, in all ages and generations. Although, Chinese people speak Mandarin, Malays speak Malay, Indian speaks Tamil, but we are still able to communicate with one another. We have a common language which unites different ethnic groups, that is English, the international language of communication. However, here in Singapore, we give English a run for its money.
Why? Here in Singapore, you will see a localized anomaly- Singlish. I’m a Chinese but I do use some Malay languages in my conversation. Here are some examples: “Do you want to have our lunch here?” “No, I have makan le, you have better chope a seat before someone does.” “Are you done with your homework?” “I have not completed yet, the questions were so cheem.” A special and unique language from different languages and dialects, which represents the true spirit of Singapore. There are Hindus, Muslims or Sikhs in the Indian population. The Chinese are predominantly followers of Buddhist, Taoist, Christians, Catholics and ‘free-thinkers’. Malays were Muslims.
In Singapore, we have a few notable areas based on the races that resided there during colonial times. We have Chinatown for the Chinese, Little India for the Indians, Arab Street for the Malays and few significant buildings in the Central business district for the European. These sites were not meant to discriminate or differentiate the ethnic groups. It was meant for other purposes. If you are an India immigrant, you can visit the Little India if you miss your hometown. This applies to all races. I remember one of the excursions to Little India organized by my primary school. It enhances our stark understanding of Indian culture.
Old temples, modern churches, exotic mosques are buildings that are worth for art appreciation.
~Chinese temple~ 
~ Indian temple~ Credit: http://www.biocrawler.com/w/images/thumb/2/29/225px-SriMariammanTemple.jpg
~Catholics Church~
~Mosque~
~Catholics Church~ Credit: http://www.veritas.org.sg/images/churches/ladylourdes.jpg
With the diversity of different races in Singapore, we can count ourselves lucky to enjoy more public holidays, learn more languages, enrich our knowledge and even taste the different delicacies. Generally Chinese foods are less spicy than Indian and Malay food. Malays more often add coconut milk as their main ingredients. For Chinese, we have chicken rice,油条 (you tiao), 云吞面(wonton noodle), 红豆砂(red bean soup), 鮑魚(abalone), 魚翅汤(shark’s fin soup), 燕窩(bird’s nest), 薄饼(popiah) etc. For Malay, we have Nasi Lemak, Satay, Laksa, Sambal Sotong, Mutton soup etc. For Indian, we have Roti Prata, Alu Roti(Potato filled bread), Bhel Puri(Crispy Indian snacks), Chai(Indian tea), Kulfi(Indian ice-cream) etc. For European, we have pizza, pork chop, chicken chop, cutlet fish fillet, French fries etc. Last but not least, we have “Rojak” for Singaporean. “Rojak” means a mixture of things which imply a mixture of ethnic groups.
Credits:
With the diversity of different races in Singapore, we can count ourselves lucky to enjoy more public holidays, learn more languages, enrich our knowledge and even taste the different delicacies. Generally Chinese foods are less spicy than Indian and Malay food. Malays more often add coconut milk as their main ingredients. For Chinese, we have chicken rice,油条 (you tiao), 云吞面(wonton noodle), 红豆砂(red bean soup), 鮑魚(abalone), 魚翅汤(shark’s fin soup), 燕窩(bird’s nest), 薄饼(popiah) etc. For Malay, we have Nasi Lemak, Satay, Laksa, Sambal Sotong, Mutton soup etc. For Indian, we have Roti Prata, Alu Roti(Potato filled bread), Bhel Puri(Crispy Indian snacks), Chai(Indian tea), Kulfi(Indian ice-cream) etc. For European, we have pizza, pork chop, chicken chop, cutlet fish fillet, French fries etc. Last but not least, we have “Rojak” for Singaporean. “Rojak” means a mixture of things which imply a mixture of ethnic groups.
Credits:
4) nasi lemak: http://www.rasamalaysia.com/uploaded_images/nasi_lemak.jpg
7) chicken chop:http://rinaz.net/images/2007/12/chickenchop.jpg
#Joscelin#
*Abigail: correcting of grammar errors
#Joscelin#
*Abigail: correcting of grammar errors
This is the distribution of task, in case anyone wants to know or remember-
#1- JosceLin
#2-How racial issues could divide the people- Ginnie
-How religious issues could divide the people- AbigaiL -How Transnational terrorism could divide the people-[discuss on Mon- most likely everyone.]
#3- JosceLin
#4-Debbie
#5-AiJia & this is the ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES OF EACH MEMBER
AbiGaiL- LeadeR: to lead in any discussion, to resolve disputes & to make sure that the task is completed for marking. Ginnie- SecRetaRy- to keep the group file.- Make sure that all the worksheets are kept in the file and to collect all the research notes from all the members, to be put in the file.
JosceLin- IT CoOrdinator- to help group members to pose their reflections in an interesting manner.
AiJia-BloG DesigneR- to set up the blog, get it ready for group members to pose their reflections & discussions and see to the overall presentation of the blog.
Debbie- TiMe KeepeR- to check the blog & to remind the team about the deadlines. FROM-AbiGaiL Note for everyone- ThanX for all your efforts! Let's try to get a good score! +)
#1- JosceLin
#2-How racial issues could divide the people- Ginnie
-How religious issues could divide the people- AbigaiL -How Transnational terrorism could divide the people-[discuss on Mon- most likely everyone.]
#3- JosceLin
#4-Debbie
#5-AiJia & this is the ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES OF EACH MEMBER
AbiGaiL- LeadeR: to lead in any discussion, to resolve disputes & to make sure that the task is completed for marking. Ginnie- SecRetaRy- to keep the group file.- Make sure that all the worksheets are kept in the file and to collect all the research notes from all the members, to be put in the file.
JosceLin- IT CoOrdinator- to help group members to pose their reflections in an interesting manner.
AiJia-BloG DesigneR- to set up the blog, get it ready for group members to pose their reflections & discussions and see to the overall presentation of the blog.
Debbie- TiMe KeepeR- to check the blog & to remind the team about the deadlines. FROM-AbiGaiL Note for everyone- ThanX for all your efforts! Let's try to get a good score! +)
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