SINGAPORE: Changing mindsets, breaking down cliques, and reducing negative tension seen in the media between locals and new immigrants were some challenges raised by the People's Association Integration Council at its first work-plan session on Saturday.
The Council was formed in July, to give greater focus and strategic direction in integrating Singapore's new immigrants.
Having a buddy system for neighbours comprising new immigrants and local Singaporeans was among suggestions raised by the Integration Council to reduce cliques in the community.
Associate Professor Fatimah Lateef, advisor, People's Association Integration Council, said: "Humans, by nature, actually want to clique together according to their similarities. So you'll find sometimes the Chinese may clique together, the Indians may clique together because it gives them comfort and security. To break that clique, you have to make them comfortable."
Other ideas include highlighting good examples of new immigrants and locals in the media, recruiting new citizens as volunteers, and having heritage activities.
Over the next six months, the Integration Council will hold a series of meetings to discuss how to develop the suggestions raised at this work plan seminar into more concrete plans. .....
The Council was formed in July, to give greater focus and strategic direction in integrating Singapore's new immigrants.
Having a buddy system for neighbours comprising new immigrants and local Singaporeans was among suggestions raised by the Integration Council to reduce cliques in the community.
Associate Professor Fatimah Lateef, advisor, People's Association Integration Council, said: "Humans, by nature, actually want to clique together according to their similarities. So you'll find sometimes the Chinese may clique together, the Indians may clique together because it gives them comfort and security. To break that clique, you have to make them comfortable."
Other ideas include highlighting good examples of new immigrants and locals in the media, recruiting new citizens as volunteers, and having heritage activities.
Over the next six months, the Integration Council will hold a series of meetings to discuss how to develop the suggestions raised at this work plan seminar into more concrete plans. .....