PAYM Policy Forum @ Jalan Besar GRC: 'Singaporeans vs. PRs: Minding the Gap'

Eating durians, attending community events and becoming a citizen - do these actions necessarily constitute integration?

This question posed by Dr Leong Chan Hoong generated a stir among the audience present at the PAYM Policy Forum @ Jalan Besar GRC, held in Suntec City Convention Centre on the 27th of March 2010. The topic of the policy forum was 'Singaporeans vs. PRs (Permanent Residents): Minding the Gap' and attracted about 100 youths, from students to working adults.

A panel of speakers was invited to speak on the topic, including Mr Heng Chee How, Minister of State for Prime Minister's Office, Dr Umayal Lakshmanan, a PR-turned-Singaporean, and Dr Leong, a research fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies. Drawing examples from their everyday lives, the panellists provided the participants with their views on the issue, and commented on recent government policies that sought to widen the Singaporean and PR gap in terms of healthcare, housing and education.

Participants first broke up into 6 small teams to discuss the topic in 3 areas, namely the distinctions that are present in Singapore between citizens and PRs, the role of the PRs and integration of both parties. Youths contributed their opinions and a summary of points was presented during the forum to give the discussion a multi-faceted dimension. Most of them were enthusiastic in their responses, often citing real-life examples to substantiate their points.

The Question-and-Answer session saw participants posing astute questions and examining the topic in depth. Is Singapore doing enough to encourage integration, not just assimilation? Are the distinctions between citizens and PRs too wide? Where is Singapore heading towards on this issue? The forum ended with a consensus that the distinctions are indeed justified and that there is a need for integration between Singaporeans and PRs.

On the whole, the policy forum was a success. The organising team would like to use this opportunity to thank our panellists, Mr Heng, Dr Leong and Ms Lakshmanan and the youths for their active participation and support. We look forward to seeing you at our next policy forum!