TYPES OF SOCIAL ISSUES FACED IN A MULTICULTURAL NEIGHBOURHOOD

Question 1

What are the types of social issues faced in a multicultural neighbourhood?

Answer 1

1. Conflicting usage of common space: In many of HDB apartment blocks, at least for public housing, the ground floor is a common space known as the void deck. That is often rented out to the residents for social uses. But different ethnic groups tend to use the void deck for different purposes. The Chinese, for instance, tend to use a void deck for wakes; the Malays, on the other hand, would use it for weddings. One occasion is usually sad and urgent; the other is happy but as any father or mother of a bride will tell you, non-negotiable.
2. Noisy rites/celebrations: Noisy riots and celebrations such as wedding, birthday party etc. at the void deck can also cause discomfort and can give rise to conflict between neighbours.
3. Stray ashes from burning of joss sticks and paper: Every year during the Hungry Ghost Festival period, town councils and the National Environment Agency (NEA) see a spike in one type of complaint: against the practice of burning incense paper.
4. Treatment of migrants: In recent years, Singaporeans treatment of new migrants from other countries have also created headlines and concerns for the government. These news range from the abuse of domestic helpers from other countries to criticising the migrants’ culture and way of life.