'Generally, we've got things right': SM Lee on tackling racism

He also touches on topics like social media, immigration in dialogue with youth in S'pore

- Elisha Tushara

In Singapore, one can expect to be respected as an individual and treated equally regardless of race, language and religion, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong said on Aug 3 at a dialogue with youth.

That is the starting point, he said in response to a question about how there remain concerns about incidents of casual racism here, and whether the situation will improve.

“Generally, we have got things right,” he said, adding that at a personal level, people have to treat each other with respect, understand the sensitivities and not cause offence.

During the hour-long session, participants from post-secondary institutions, madrasahs, Special Assistance Plan (SAP) schools, as well as community and religious groups, asked SM Lee questions on topics ranging from casual racism and influence of social media to integration between locals and new migrants.

“We have to express disapproval and if it is done with ill intent, we have to be quite firm to come down and put it down,” he said, referring to conflicts that arise over race or religion. “At the same time, we have to respond in a measured way, and we have to see what the situation is.”

Singaporeans should not become hypersensitive, said SM Lee. “If you look at what is happening in Western countries, there is a mood now where you are so careful about not doing anything which may cause offence to anybody,” he said.

“Sometimes, they even say I am going to say something which you may be unhappy (about). So, if you don’t want to hear me, please leave the room before I say it. And then life becomes very tiring.”

This is not a mature or practical way of getting along with each other, he said, which requires “give and take”, understanding, tolerance and respect. “And I am able to get on together because, fundamentally, we believe that we are Singaporeans. I think we should take that kind of an approach.”