Racial Harmony

I think I've blogged about this before.

One key reason why Singaporean has been so successful with racial integration is National Service.

Here, every Singaporean son gets drafted to contribute to the defence of Singapore, regardless of race, language, or religion. People are forced to mingle with others out of their social circles and social standings.

I can't remember the last time I shared a bunk with so large a group of people of so many other races, but here I am doing so again at reservist, in a 56 man bunk made up of double-decker bed frames. 

There is an air of tolerance and respect around. 

There are Chinese, Malays, Indians, Eurasians. There are Buddhists, Taoists, Muslims, Christians and free-thinkers. There are the very highly educated, and the very lowly educated. The main language of use is English, although Mandarin and Malay can be heard.

There is a pastor, an architect, a neurosurgeon, doctors, lawyers, a district judge, a PAP youth wing leader, all in our midst.

The conditions are not optimal, even though the bunk is air-conditioned. Each individual space was on a first come, first served basis. People's luggage and equipment were strewn in a bloody mess. 

And yet everyone adapts. Everyone is tolerant. There were issues about bunk space as well as a broken door, but people are get on with the demands of the army.

It is the period of Ramadan and the Muslims are fasting. Before breaking fast they have to do their daily prayer. In spite of the mess in the bunk, each Muslim finds some space and carries on with what he needs to do. Everyone else around is respectful and gives him his space. It is a beautiful sight.

People from different functions in the army are chatting with one another.

This is how a mature and inclusive society should function.