Being a non-Malaysian and a mere investor in Malaysian, I am not qualified to comment. But looking at the environment and seeing the images of Malaysians coming together at demonstrations like Bersih 3.0 and Lynas, I can feel the patriotism coursing through the veins.
On the other hand, Singapore seems to be moving further away from a common identity. First of all, the emphasis of ethnic group self help has compartmentalized the understanding of races. This is made worse by the recent influx of foreigners. It will greatly impact on us in the coming months and years.
Race is a sensitive matter. A dislike of a PRC may be easily misunderstood as anti-Chinese if uttered by other races. Likewise, any comments on an Indian foreigner will also create potential animosity.
Very sad, a poorly executed Government policy is turning the country divisive rather than towards a path of harmony.
Well balanced and well written. It is sad but too true. In the name of globalization, things have to change but the change was executed poorly. The original idea was good, (giving credit when it is due to them) but the way it was carried out could have been done better. When a country cheapen itself too much, it no longer draws in talents but the dregs of society from all over. By all means import people from countries who could militarily assist us or have huge impact on SG as a whole in terms of influence.
No issue with FTs as long as they are really good but not on wholesale basis where jobs that can be done by anyone is given freely and locals are discriminated against. If they can assimilate into society, all the better rather than forming enclaves or demanding things be done "their way back home".
Let's not forget, for some of them, "their way" was the very reason why they have to leave it to work and to survive in the first place. Again, there are good FTs as well, respect for the host country and it's people are practiced all over the world, except in SG regrettably where every new arrival sees it fit to lecture as soon as they arrive and worse, are encouraged to do so.
What one sees on the outside even if one stays there for years does not equate to knowing the feelings of the local people. The full impact of policies are only felt keenly by those who have to live through it. When my Malaysian friends complain about their government, I never say anything as I did not go though their pain even though I can see the effects of good and bad policies. Everyone is entitled to complain about ones own country. I respect that.
