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  • Essay / The Multiracialist Model in Singapore

    Benjamin's article is written on the basis that Singapore operates purely on multiracialism. It then examines how multiracialism has related to Singapore and concludes that there should be a balance when adopting the multiracialist model. As Benjamin says, race is an important section of the ID card and "every permanent resident must, by law, have the 'race' with which the owner claims to share affinity." » And to this day, it is obligatory to complete the “Course” section in certain forms. Race holds an important place in our identity. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay Additionally, language is linked to race. As Benjamin notes, the definition of "mother tongue" is not as it is, but the mother tongue is a "language which belongs by criterion to the "race" to which one declares one's belonging, that one speak it or not.” This is the most relevant case for Singapore to date. “Bilingualism” refers to the acquisition of two languages ​​in general. However, Singapore has a narrow definition where it specifically refers to English and native language, depending on race. The freedom to choose the language is not given. With the multiracial system in place, Benjamin mentions that to display the distinctiveness of each culture, differences must be emphasized, similarities must be diminished. Demonstrative forms must highlight “their separate but equal status”. For example, conscious efforts are made to ensure that there is at least one representative of each race represented and that they appear on GRC banners for festivals such as Chinese New Year and Christmas. , this will show “equal” status. Benjamin also explains that “projected fantasies can be presented on stage and recorded in books.” In schools, children learn about differences such as dancing, food and costumes through citizenship education and Racial Harmony Day. This is also the case during National Day parades, where cultural differences are always highlighted and emphasized, instead of depicting a single Singapore, where commonalities are shared regardless of race and culture . These projected fantasies remain superficial and do not truly reflect the daily lives of Singaporeans. The differences in our culture are frequently emphasized on a superficial level. Unlike what Benjamin defined as culture, it does not need to be distinctive, but it seems that Singapore will continue to project these fantasies of different races and cultures. When we embrace multiracialism as part of Singapore's culture, Benjamin says it "puts pressure on Chinese people to become more Chinese," and so on. This suggests that Singaporeans are obligated to act in accordance with what is expected of their race. For example, a Chinese person must be able to speak Chinese, otherwise he would be condemned and labeled as a "potato", a term used for Chinese people who are unable to speak or know Chinese well, causing a feeling of shame. Malaysians who do not wear “tudung” are not “Malay” enough. Each individual is subject to some form of surveillance by others to maintain their “Chineseness,” “Malayness” and others. Individuals who do not strictly adhere to how each respective race should behave may face disapproval from the social group, leaving them in disgrace. Keep in mind: this is just one.