chapter 5 Flashcards
Reason for Greater Diversity: Flexible/Relaxed Immigration Policy
- In the 1980s, Singapore faced declining population and brain drain.
- The government encouraged immigration to address these issues.
- Increased immigration introduces new and foreign cultures, leading to greater diversity.
Example of Immigration Influencing Diversity
- Expatriates in Singapore’s petrochemical industry:
- Came under the S-Pass scheme.
- Some became Permanent Residents and eventually naturalized as citizens.
- This group brought different cultures that were not traditionally associated with Singapore, contributing to increased diversity.
Reason for Greater Diversity: Economic Opportunities
- Singapore attracts immigrants due to:
- Ease of doing business.
- Good judicial practices.
- Low corruption.
- Ample job opportunities in various industries.
- This leads to greater socioeconomic and cultural diversity as people from different income levels and cultures come to work and settle in Singapore.
Example of Economic Opportunities Influencing Diversity (Blue-Collar)
The construction industry in Singapore:
* Employs many Tamil and Bangladeshi workers attracted by job opportunities.
* These workers bring their cultures to Singapore, adding to the cultural diversity.
Example of Economic Opportunities Influencing Diversity (White-Collar)
The petrochemicals industry in Singapore:
* Routinely hires overseas experts to oversee plants.
* These professionals bring high socioeconomic status and different cultures, enhancing diversity in Singapore.
Reason for Greater Diversity: Sociocultural Environment
- Singapore’s vibrant business hub, good judicial practices, and low corruption make it an attractive place to settle.
- Local immigrant communities support new immigrants, facilitating their naturalization.
- This environment encourages more immigrants to relocate to Singapore, increasing diversity.
Example of Sociocultural Environment Influencing Diversity
** Immigrant support groups like the Australia and New Zealand Association:**
* Support families from their respective countries based in Singapore.
* Organize events to help immigrants settle in.
* This support encourages more foreign professionals to settle down in Singapore, increasing diversity.