REACH (Telegram) 116 - What are your views on the Government's approach towards building a “We-first” society? What more can be done?
(SK)
28 Jan 2026 (10am - 7pm)
REACH (Telegram)
REACH Singapore, [28/1/2026 9:45 am]
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REACH Singapore, [28/1/2026 10:00 am]
๐ข Topic ๐ข
A "we first" society could include foreigners, and the idea encourages individuals to focus on the community instead of themselves, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong said at a dialogue at the Institute of Policy Studies '(IPS) 2026 Singapore Perspectives conference on 26 January. Mr Gan was responding to a question about how speeches that evoke a “we first” society may be perceived as referring to Singaporeans, unintentionally excluding foreigners, especially when leaders call on individuals to be involved in integration efforts.
Mr Gan shared his interpretation of a “we first” society, emphasising that "rather than focusing on ourselves, focus on the collective. And the ‘we’ could include foreigners."
๐ฌ What are your views on the Government's approach towards building a “We-first” society? What more can be done?
In a separate panel at the Institute of Policy Studies’ Singapore Perspectives conference on 26 January, Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth David Neo also stated that building a “we first” society in Singapore will be challenging not due to a lack of resources or laws, but because it requires a profound shift in how people here relate to one another. He added that such a society is one where people look beyond their own interests to contribute to the larger good of the community.
๐ Balancing Immigration and Social Cohesion
Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong said that with immigration, the key question is how to integrate foreigners and ensure that Singaporeans can work with them for the benefit of Singapore. He also noted that despite Singapore’s immigration policies, its citizenship growth rate has come down over time.
He also accepted that Singaporeans sometimes feel that they face a lot of competition at work from fellow Singaporeans, foreigners and even new citizens. “I think this sense of competition is real. We have to recognise that. But it is also something we have to accept that we just have to continue to compete with the rest of the world,” he added. "So we have to make sure that our people will be the most competitive in the world" said Mr Gan.
๐ Integration as a Two-Way Effort
One way to nurture a 'we first' society is to create opportunities for people to interact, and by doing so, deepen their understanding of one another in spite of differences, said Mr Neo. He cited examples of such interactions building across the island, such as how a dozen residents in Yio Chu Kang come together every month to prepare meals and organise activities for some 40 seniors, with food supplied by the local hawkers’ association. "We all have the capacity to initiate or support such efforts in our own spheres, and in our own ways,” he said.
Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow, speaking at a panel discussion titled "Navigating Challenges to Social Cohesion: at the Institute of Policy Studies’ (IPS) Singapore Perspectives conference (26 Jan) also reiterated that all sides will have to make extra effort on this – newcomers must consciously want to integrate, contribute to the community, abide by norms here, and understand what it means to be Singaporean. Singaporeans must be open-minded too; they have to accept that the national identity today will evolve and it will take time for newcomers to adapt to local customs and practices, he added.
๐ Building a Shared Singapore Identity
Mr Gan stressed that it is important to continue to focus on measures that encourage and support social integration, especially with new citizens. "They have spent a good part of their life in a different culture, have different practices, maybe hold different values," said Mr Gan. "But the fact that they have decided to become Singapore citizens, they have decided that there's something common between Singapore and them … want to become part of this bigger fraternity," he added. The challenge is to see how to recognise the differences while expanding the common space between new citizens and existing Singaporeans to become a more dynamic society, he said.
REACH Singapore, [28/1/2026 10:00 am]
Useful Links
๐ https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/we-first-society-foreigner-immigration-integration-ips-gan-kim-yong-5883906
๐ https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/building-a-we-first-society-requires-deep-mindset-shifts-david-neo
๐ https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/spore-must-do-more-integration-as-immigration-is-crucial-for-economy-amid-low-tfr-jeffrey-siow
----
Adam, [28/1/2026 10:59 am]
I believe in we first. We should include foreigners and and women in ns.
Doesnt have to be military. We have scdf nsf.
We have shortage of nurses for our elders. Need staff to cook good food for our young. We need more blood to serve the community over themselves
Adam, [28/1/2026 11:00 am]
Can we really have we first if only a quarter of the total population puts society before themselves?
REACH Singapore, [28/1/2026 11:02 am]
[ Poll : 1. I agree that immigration is crucial for Singapore’s economy. Please share your views in the chat! ]
- Strongly agree
- Agree
- Neutral
- Disagree
- Strongly disagree
REACH Singapore, [28/1/2026 11:02 am]
[ Poll : 2. I am comfortable with the pace of growth of foreigners in Singapore. Please share your views in the chat! ]
- Strongly agree
- Agree
- Neutral
- Disagree
- Strongly disagree
Adam, [28/1/2026 11:06 am]
If gov wants we first, dont half hearted do a system ripe for exploitation.
Everything has a price. Many singaporeans probably wont mind getting punched in the face if you give them a thousand dollars first.
There is a cost to having a higher population through immigration, but i think a societal cost needs to be paid. They enjoy the security paid by nsmen. Stability of our culture.
Adam, [28/1/2026 11:07 am]
I get the ideal the some things a 'priceless'. But realistically we need to put a sticker value on it, just like how insurance values human life and limb. Erp and coe puts a value to the strain of our transport infrastructure
REACH Singapore, [28/1/2026 11:08 am]
Dear Contributors,
Please take a moment to participate in our polls and share your opinion.
The poll questions are pinned for easy reference and your vote is anonymous.
We look forward to hearing your thoughts on today’s topic!
๐ฌ What are your views on the Government's approach towards building a "We-first" society? What more can be done?
Thank you.
Megan
Andy, [28/1/2026 11:14 am]
This is a very natural progression for countries with declining birth rates. People are like fuel to a nation, we need to get from elsewhere if we do not have enough ourselves.
So I think we also need to discuss on how best to increase birth rates as immigration is the consequence.
Separately, there is also the discussion on how we can be highly selective of immigration and whether 'ease of integration' is already a criteria or not.
As for the article.. it is a straightforward political statement. Nothing really to find fault with, takes 2 hands to clap, bla bla.
Andy, [28/1/2026 11:17 am]
Trump also mentioned (very bluntly) how US should be selective of migrants. I think Singaporeans have the same sentiment, we want quality people, courteous, helpful, valuable, but we should be tactful about it.
Adam, [28/1/2026 11:19 am]
I notice a lot residents have allegiences else where. They contribute a lot to cpf to have tax benefirts. Even can top up to get matched by the gov. Then can withdraw tax free when renounce. In a we first society, we need to tax people who withdraw the foreigner income tax rate. We cannot be letting other have me first while we bankroll them in matching schemes
365, [28/1/2026 11:25 am]
I agree with this, any full withdrawal outside of the normal 55 then 65, should be taxed as income. This amount was not taxed initially, so there is no double taxation. Once they withdraw as foreigners no longer in our system, this amount is basically a part of their cumulative income
365, [28/1/2026 11:26 am]
Does not punish Singaporeans for remaining Singaporeans, and also does not give a free pass of benefits for those not aligned with Singapore.
365, [28/1/2026 11:29 am]
Immigration as an economic solution is a bandaid that has been on for too long. I view this as an acceptable short term solution. But this "short term" has dragged on for too long, there seems to be no solution to the root cause for population structural issue
Adam, [28/1/2026 11:44 am]
I want to talk about the english proficiency of people in our country
Adam, [28/1/2026 11:45 am]
There are many customer facing workers that i cant communicate easily with as they only speak chinese
Adam, [28/1/2026 11:45 am]
What can the gov do about it?
Adam, [28/1/2026 11:46 am]
Can we force companies to send the staff to send the workers to english classes on their money?
Adam, [28/1/2026 11:49 am]
In a we first society that includes foreigners. There should be a effort to learn to communicate in english as most singaporeans speak it
Adam, [28/1/2026 11:49 am]
The gov of old saw the importance of everyone having a common tongue
Adam, [28/1/2026 11:50 am]
In a we first society, the business that hires non english staff needs to ensure their staff can speak it. Maybe help fund them
RY, [28/1/2026 1:05 pm]
SG is a multi-racial nation when started. SG immigration policy is expected due to declining birth rate. Even country like Japan due to low birth, is also opening up to immigration in recent years
If USA didnt open her doors to foreigners after World War, dont think they may become prosperous and super power now
I suppose "We First" concept, should be also part of our Inclusive Society, as long as they are residents of SG, whether they are singaporean/PR/whatever pass they are holding eg employment/student/long term pass and etc
However, although we are a inclusive society due to multi-racial culture, some policies eg MRSS/MMSS in CPF, only citizens can entitle. And Govt policies eg financial assistance shd prioritise singaporeans first always
Maybe govt financial assistance should look at household income as a whole, and not at the type of housing sometimes eg Silver Support Scheme not extended to seniors staying in 5Rm flat? Shdnt the govt encouraging children to stay with parents, and looking after them when they are ageing over the years
Having said that I find the SkillsFuture credits for singaporeans very useful. It is kind of encouraging matured workers to upskills & enhance knowledge, in the midst of the changing world eg technology/knowledge example AI
Since PR has the choice of leaving/renouncing, then their entitlements/assistance/subsidy n etc shd be limited
I am glad that the MRSS(Match Retirement Saving Scheme) is expanded to People with Disability of younger age starting 2026. As this is also part of the SG Enable, and people of disability, they shd entitle to more benefits/subsidy/financial assistance, so as to demonstrate our Inclusive Society Concept
Many foreigners that I know and came to SG is quite impress that SG govt built "walkway shelter" for residents/lift at some overheadbridge and etc, that many countries may not have such facilities .....
It is also a gd initiative for Govt to start the MMSS(Matched Medisave Saving Scheme) this year. Hope govt may expand to those age 70 also, rather than btw 55-70
I concur that if the PR renounced, then they shd not be entitled to any benefits fm SG govt, and their CPF shd be withdrawn with taxing, since they already earn interests over the years in Cpf
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 1:26 pm]
Only when foreigner wanted to be in the we, contribute to Singaporean then we can only includes them in the we. If the new comer acts like yaya Papaya and don't respect Singapore culture, trying to overturned it then sorry even they are Singaporean it's hard to include in the we
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 1:27 pm]
To be accepted in the "we" we have stringent criteria
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 1:28 pm]
After all we Singaporean are very kind
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 1:29 pm]
Birthrates will continue to fall if gov doesn't limit the capacity of intake of foreigner
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 1:30 pm]
After all more competition means less resources which also means our offspring have a higher chance to lose out
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 1:31 pm]
From a biology perspective
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 1:32 pm]
So I propose in order to better integrate new citizens we need those new comer to be pr for at least 15 yrs.
Khai Mun L., [28/1/2026 1:57 pm]
How did you come to number of 15? Why not 5 etc..
REACH Singapore, [28/1/2026 2:01 pm]
๐ข Topic ๐ข
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 2:04 pm]
You need at least 10 yr to integrate mah plus new citizens tend to have a lot of connection overseas too so they every year will go back to their home land for a month or more also. When they become Singaporean rule of them needed to stay in Singapore for a certain number of days lifted. So 10-15 yrs will allow them to stay in Singapore long enough to integrate in
Khai Mun L., [28/1/2026 2:05 pm]
Personally, i believe the issue is because locals not making babies.
an extreme idea, forced marriages since men have to do compulsory national service?
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 2:06 pm]
Cause existing rules say 2 yrs
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 2:06 pm]
Which I don't think can integrate lor
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 2:07 pm]
And 5 yr very fast de covid to now already 5 yr
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 2:08 pm]
10-15 yr will allow them to learn singlish well too
Daniel, [28/1/2026 2:10 pm]
I feel one way of having more people stay in Singapore is to allow double citizenship for children born to binational parents and having grown up in Singapore. Those people have very strong ties to Singapore and also have to serve NS currently but then at 21 have to pick one nationality. Some of them will chose to give up the Singapore passport because they want to go try out living in their other home country and later find it hard to come back because they don't have citizenship any more. I feel this group of people, having grown up here, do not have the same sort of conflict of interest linked to double nationals as people acquiring the citizenship when they are adult and this could strengthen the Singaporean core by encouraging more of them to chose to stay in Singapore.
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 2:14 pm]
Nope. As tension build you never know if war comes in the future
365, [28/1/2026 2:26 pm]
This just allows them to play both sides, there's no benefit for them to renounce down the line, so they fully enjoy the benefits of a citizen without the need to commit
Khai Mun L., [28/1/2026 2:31 pm]
The benefits of being citizens come later in life and to their next generations (if PR or citizen). In the form of healthcare (more spending in old agr), lifelong payout from cpf, and school fees during young
Daniel, [28/1/2026 2:32 pm]
It works well for many other countries. And it's one way to get more Singaporeans to stay in Singapore. In the end have to weigh the pros and cons, but if people are against allowing more immigrants without ties into the country, then that's one option to counteract this a bit in my opinion. Because let's be frank, at 21 most people haven't sorted their life out yet, so maybe they'll come back and stay here after they finish their studies overseas (good for Singapore, no need to subsidise their studies) or to settle down and start a family. If we're really scared about them just reaping the benefits, then have them chose at 30 or 35 instead.
365, [28/1/2026 2:36 pm]
Professional employment as well. I know it's very common to portray in the media that companies are hiring only foreigners, but I've came across a non-insignificant number of recruitment favoring locals.
This however might also be tied to the common practice and needs of the industry.
Adam, [28/1/2026 2:39 pm]
Even if you come across all these recruitment, is the listings real?
Adam, [28/1/2026 2:40 pm]
When you go to office what is listed might be different from what you see
365, [28/1/2026 2:40 pm]
Yes, I perform my checks and have a pretty high confidence that it is real
Adam, [28/1/2026 2:40 pm]
Lots of people get hired through other channels
365, [28/1/2026 2:41 pm]
These aren't even from me searching listings, they are HR people approaching me
365, [28/1/2026 2:42 pm]
Like I mentioned, this may also be heavily influenced by the needs of the industry, since I have not jumped industries yet
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 2:45 pm]
I always envy new citizens as they can still go back to their Homeland for cheaper healthcare cost. For Singaporean we have nothing. No plan b
REACH Singapore, [28/1/2026 3:00 pm]
Dear Contributors,
Please take a moment to participate in our polls and share your opinion.
The poll questions are pinned for easy reference and your vote is anonymous.
We look forward to hearing your thoughts on today’s topic!
๐ฌ What are your views on the Government's approach towards building a "We-first" society? What more can be done?
Thank you.
Megan
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 3:08 pm]
1. Immigration is an emotional topic - it apply not only to Singapore, but everywhere else in the World.
2. In the World where globalisation has taken a toll on citizens in the economic front, jobs - far right and nationalism rear its head - that has given rise to more tense geopolitical tussling and jostling.
3. Hence the discussion on today's topic, We first versus Me first - that touches on the inclusion of Foreigners into We first - will certainly see more robust and emotional discussion - because human basic natural raw instinct is to protect "Self" first before talking about "We first" much less about pulling in "foreigners" into We first.
4. In today's context of AI job distuptor, and Geopolitical tussling that make the economic pie smaller, emotions on immigration - the fear of adding an additional factor to "compete for jobs and affect the livelihood" while trying to emerge from AI and Geopolitics - is understandable.
5. Hence today's topic is not an easy topic - but must address head on - because it will affect our "existential" existence if not address properly - by first making people understand our predicarment we are in - and the needs for immigration.
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 3:18 pm]
1. First, our population will get old and getting older. There must be another generation of young citizens to take over the Country when the generation get old.
But sadly the TFR is 0.97 - way below the replacement rate of 2.1.
That is, only 0.97 human produce every year to replace 2 adults lost - which is way below replacement of our older folks - and this is an existential threat to Singapore survival and the ability to thrive.
2. Now let us look at how we perform in the global stage ----- many Number 1 in global ranking on many fields.
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSamhTjnU/
Singapore global rankings in the world in 2025.
How did we get so far as a "little red dot" - human capital, human talents.
Without sufficient replacement for our human capital - Singapore cannot come so far and perform so well.
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 3:25 pm]
3. Hence, there is a need to look at 2nd best option, Immigrants that are willing to come to Singpaore to contribute to our Economy, integrate well with our Society and Communities, willing to be Singaporeans, try to be Singaporeans, behave like Singaporeans, and immerse with our culture as Singaporeans and talk like Singaporeans (eg. in Singlish).
4. But of course such new immigrants and new citizens cannot be totally behave like Singaporeans as they come from another Countries and hence will inherit their home culture, languages, behavior, etc - but as long as they are willing to integrate with us - we need to open our hearts and minds to accept them and help them to integrate --- because we need them especially if they are talents that we need or they have something to contribute that will benefit all of us and make our Country stronger, better and prosperous.
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 3:40 pm]
5. To relate my experience with immigrants on the personal front. Without talented immigrants, my initial career upstart will not be as smooth. Because IT and computer science profession is just at its nascent stage at that time --- mainframe era.
6. My senior, a Malaysian PR is technically very sound - and nurture me from a fresh graduate to become a solid senior engineer.
7. My technical boss is also a Malaysia PR that have given me opportunities and useful roles to perform in many big projects.
Both are very nice and nuturing boss.
Though very thankful to the person that recruited me is a Singaporean Manager.
And my 2nd interview is by a HK PR who is an Assistant Chief Executive.
8. Without immigrants, Singapore will have lacked the required skillsets and talents to function and grow - train and nurture local citizens to helm the new technologies.
9. Thinking aloud, Goh Keng Swee is a Malaysian from Malacca. On the hindsight, without GKS, Singapore will probably won't gain independence and self-rule. We won't have a first class financial system back by gold. Our Economy will not rise up well. Our industry will not have an upstart in manufacturing. We won't be able to start a capable full fledge SAF back up by defence contractors.
Khai Mun L., [28/1/2026 3:55 pm]
Locals to get married and make babies! Talk no use, do action.. haha
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 3:58 pm]
Unfortunately, many young folks want to remain singles.
And for some who married don't want to have babies.
Wonder how to improve our TFR to 2.1?
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 3:59 pm]
"IMF prepares for global run on US dollar.
The EU should issue more common debt to provide investors with an alternative safe asset to gold and US Treasuries, the Fund's managing director said".
https://www.euractiv.com/news/imf-prepares-for-global-run-on-us-dollar/#:~:text=IMF%20prepares%20for,managing%20director%20said
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 4:01 pm]
Btw this topic is extremely important for our government to look into.
US treasury and the global finance is ticking into a time bomb.
Important to have railguards at hand to safeguard our sovereign wealth and global investment.
Daniel, [28/1/2026 4:01 pm]
Yeah, and not only that. 2.1 means need to have more than 2 kids on average. I got 2 already, definitely don't want more. Most of the support is only for the first two years, after that not much. Also childcare leave is not enough to cover school closures and sickness etc. For us, it's too stressful and we decided not to have a 3rd one. So even those who want to have kids now often stop at 1 or 2.
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:01 pm]
Speaking of this, i heard there is a growing cultural shift. People dont officially get married. People go in 'situationships'
Basically people scared of commitment
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 4:02 pm]
This trend is no good for Singapore in our TFR.
Could cause more social problems.
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:02 pm]
From men they scared that marraige law favors women. Women want more freedom than tied down
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:04 pm]
Also relationship dynamics, women wants wealthier partner. But these days, women earn more than men especially early in career
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:06 pm]
So if people focus on work instead of setting with partner in their early adult years, how will the country grow?
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:06 pm]
At my 20s already stressed cannot get hdb
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:06 pm]
Down to the core cost of living the main factors
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:07 pm]
I am in my 20s right now but I fear to find a partner
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 4:07 pm]
When I started my career, my salary is only $1,600.
I got married and work hard in my career and very frugal in my spendings.
I still raise a family.
Grit and determination carry me through.
Daniel, [28/1/2026 4:07 pm]
That and also time factor. Having kids means burning all your leaves and free time on looking after. I can understand people don't want that.
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:08 pm]
I got not enough money and time to try and error where scammers are out there and relationship sometimes can look like scam
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:08 pm]
I got scammed in online dating app
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:09 pm]
Im scared of online dating
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:09 pm]
Nowadays got ai
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 4:09 pm]
Wonder if there are government sanctions dating agencies or apps to help Singaporeans or not.
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:09 pm]
Coffee meets bagel is a good app
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:09 pm]
People might scrape your profile and do weird stuff
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:10 pm]
But now I just not ready to find one lor
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:10 pm]
No money
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:10 pm]
I wonder how they verify people real
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 4:10 pm]
Previously they have sdu, sds.
Now look like disbanded already.
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:10 pm]
Hardly can feed myself
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:10 pm]
Singpass
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 4:11 pm]
I thought government should partners with credible private dating agencies to help Singaporeans go dating and get hitched - work on credible dating apps as well.
Previously some of my relatives marriage is through sdu.
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:12 pm]
In dating app a lot of people also dont put effort. Many dont show proper photo. If apply job but your cv empty who hire? Same in dating
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:12 pm]
Like a minister say nowadays not many people have close friends
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:12 pm]
A friend you can call in 2am
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:13 pm]
Issue is where is the incentive for proper match? Whats stopping the companies to charge people monthly as long as they stuck single
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:13 pm]
Money
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:13 pm]
Dating is not a priority as everyone is lack of money
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 4:13 pm]
I think previously sdu are credible and they don't fleece participants.
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:14 pm]
Those with money are focusing on how to stay relevant lol
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:14 pm]
๐ค on the topic of immigration, maybe need breeding visas
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 4:14 pm]
With such a intense competition
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:15 pm]
I wonder how easy people who find partner overseas get to settle family here
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:15 pm]
Not uncommon give birth girl here and boy in foreign spouse country
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:16 pm]
So much for we first
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:16 pm]
Gov should look into people gaming the system
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:16 pm]
See how to make the dream of we first work
Daniel, [28/1/2026 4:18 pm]
I know a lot of such families. If they want to live her long term, they'll chose to register their boys here. Doesn't make sense financially otherwise.
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:20 pm]
That's a very interesting perspective.. why leh? Just because boys need serve NS 18 years later?
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:20 pm]
Don't understand what's the main consideration here
Daniel, [28/1/2026 4:22 pm]
Yeah, most people I know will let their sons do NS unless they don't want to live in Singapore.
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:24 pm]
I understand that. But confused about what Adam said about 'give birth to girl here but boy in foreign spouse country'.
Daniel, [28/1/2026 4:24 pm]
Same, me too
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:24 pm]
๐๐
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 4:26 pm]
Actually "We" Concept is a profound philosophical concept.
Have written this long time ago when it was first coin - during PM Lawrence Wong opening speech - but no opportunity to post it.
Now can post it here.
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 4:27 pm]
Thursday, September 25, 2025
"We" Concept* (https://babe118.blogspot.com/2025/09/we-concept.html)
"We" Concept*
1. Let us discuss the concept of "We" in policy formulation coin by our Government for Parliament 2025.
2. "We" in layman terms can also be referred to as "Empathy" - ability to stand into others' shoes while standing in your own shoes to look at issues and coining solutions or policies taking into consideration our own interests and others' interests into account as a starting point.
Hence any solutions and policies coming from the "We mindset" will benefits everyone including ourselves.
3. This encompasses the virtue of understanding and employing the "Larger whole" (the Greater Wheel) is more important than our own "selfish interest - that benefits only me or I (the Smaller Wheel).
4. Hence, we can visualise the extrapolation of "We" thoughts:-
a. Beginning with one point (Self interest) 。(one-pointedness)
b. Extend upwards, downwards, horizontally, vertically (ไธๅบฆ，ไธๅบฆ。ๆจชๅบฆ， ็ซๅบฆ。) + (Cross)
i. top people that can make decision and higher income groups;
ii. lower hierarchy that include lower income groups;
(both form the verticals),
iii. horizontally - our peers, middle income groups
c. And then transform into extending into the well beings of ( ไธ็พๅ ญๅๅบฆ，ๆ ๆไธๅบฆ。）๐ (Greater Wheel)
i. all rounded considerations 360 degree - a wheel - every residents, citizens, PRs &/or foreigners.
ii. also include animals, cats, dogs, wild animals.
iii. extending into global climate, coastal protection
iv. relationship and well being with foreign Countries, leaders and their countrymen.
5. In profound form, "We" concept of a person must encompass 3 important attributes :-
a. Selfless (ability to empathise not only with self, but also others)
b. Compassion (all policies must be compassionate - to bring positive outcomes to self and others, and must not cause harm or miseries to others while benefitting self)
c. Anchor on Wisdom - hence coming out with wholesome solutions or policies that is a workable one, balanced ones, based on merits and trade off (with selfless and compassion disposition).
The Enlightened Mind.
6. And if a person is able to consistently, inherently, mindfully employing the "We" concept based on all the above considerations - then policies and solutions coined - will be a wholesome one that include the merits of :
i. Win-win outcomes
ii. Mutual benefits
iii. Ability to competently resolve issues with minimal adverse side effects.
This is the profound explanation of "We" concept in respond to PM Lawrence Wong statement in Parliament.
Addressing parliament in his first speech at the start of the term of government since becoming prime minister, Mr Wong added: “We will strive to create more fulfilling lives for you. And not just for a few among you, but for all of you."
The PM spoke about a “we first” society (https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/ndr-lawrence-wong-society-collective-action-singapore-spirit-5298826) at his National Day Rally speech in August, Mr Wong urged Singaporeans to embrace their individuality and help everyone be the best possible versions of themselves.
“At the same time, we have to look out for one another and lift each other up. Only then can we be greater than the sum of our parts,” he added.
Source :- CNA news
Khai Mun L., [28/1/2026 4:31 pm]
We are too money-minded nowadays, don't put priority on character and morales
LCL (Danny ๅฟ), [28/1/2026 4:32 pm]
Morals.
Khai Mun L., [28/1/2026 4:32 pm]
Actually as long as willing to work hard, won't starve in sg. Don't compare with others and get jealous of their wealth. Work hard/smart and get your 'revenge'
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:35 pm]
The construction worker is the hardest worker in sg. Literally building this nation. Surely they can retire here right?
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:39 pm]
Striving for success is what brought SG here today by our predecessors. Not a bad thing. But yes about morals - parents play a key role to instill values in their children and set a good example. To a large extent, not something people can 'learn from books' in school
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:41 pm]
Hard worker? Yes. Hardest worker? Hmm, I'm sure there any many working hard too in other ways just not physically
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:41 pm]
We all know the morals our parents instil plays a key role.
How can we ensure that non singaporeans in singapore have good morals in a we first society?
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:41 pm]
By the way.. is it related to your profile picture ๐
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:42 pm]
We have no control on how other countries raise them. Is there something that needs to be done for integration?
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:42 pm]
Very good question. I like to hear your suggestions
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:43 pm]
Firstly mandatory english profiency test. If cmi then have to take lesson. If awol then go db. Just like ippt
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:43 pm]
Hahaha
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:43 pm]
If we can afford instructor to eyepower us do ippt. We can have en classes for those that cant speak it
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:43 pm]
Ippt never go db la.. just pay $100 fine ๐
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:44 pm]
I think many times they know how to speak but choose not to. We should tag a voice recorder and make sure they hit their daily speech quota
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:45 pm]
Tbh doing daily study, even small is how people learn language
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:49 pm]
By the way I am joking about the voice recorder.. haha ๐
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:50 pm]
But another thing i wanna bring up is enforcement of laws. Singapore is known for strict laws but i feel enforcement is getting very lax. I see people doing selfish behavior from pmds to littering.
Singaporeans are probably too kind or too apathetic. Our rule of law is only as strong as its enforcement. Immoral people will try to get away with things. If we dont step up enforcement, our morals as a society will deteriorate
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:51 pm]
Btw do you guys see more litter these days? Rats too
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:52 pm]
Have, rats and rodents, even right beside chinatown mrt in the rubbish area. People anyhow throw and nobody clear
Adam, [28/1/2026 4:52 pm]
Last month i saw garbage strewn on the void deck. The wind blew a untied rubbish bag and scattered the contents. I think its one of the effects of the plastic bag fee
Andy, [28/1/2026 4:53 pm]
Must enforce. those errant PMD especially
Daniel, [28/1/2026 4:55 pm]
This I also observe. People too lazy to call town council to remove bulky items or carry it to the bin centre, so they just dump it at the void deck. Same with recycling bins, full of rubbish and overflowing. There should be more enforcement for these kind of things.
Nicholas, [28/1/2026 5:30 pm]
Considering Singapore is a small country, immigration numbers should be tightly managed, otherwise it will get more crowded everywhere. It is already very crowded in Singapore. Perhaps applying the COE concept that controls vehicle growth to immigration might work?
Nicholas, [28/1/2026 5:33 pm]
Also don't quite understand the results of the two polls above, majority (over 50%) says immigration is crucial for Singapore's economy, yet majority also says they are uncomfortable with pace of growth of foreigners here - why the misalignment?
Zackermax, [28/1/2026 5:48 pm]
Drinking water is crucial for sustaining life, yet I am not comfortable with drowning. There is no misalignment.
Khai Mun L., [28/1/2026 5:53 pm]
Morals not limited to foreigners. The recent 'crazy' or rude people are Singaporeans. Covid lady, spitting water on train, release captured crows, throw items from high floors
Khai Mun L., [28/1/2026 5:56 pm]
I agree that enforcement getting lax. Not sure is due to not enough manpower available to do the tiring, sometimes dangerous role.
Or that the culprits make too much noise- complain to MP, proclaim innocence etc, that the authorities waive off the fines
G, [28/1/2026 5:57 pm]
This kind of posture cheapens citizenship
G, [28/1/2026 5:58 pm]
This kind of posture erodes the national identity that the 1G PAP spent so much resources to build
Khai Mun L., [28/1/2026 5:59 pm]
Or claim they have mental disability..
REACH Singapore, [28/1/2026 6:04 pm]
๐ข Topic ๐ข
G, [28/1/2026 6:04 pm]
This kind of posture reveals to us that the PAP govt has moved away from putting Singaporeans first.
Asking Singaporeans to adapt to immigrants rather than the other way around shows Singaporeans are positioned lower than foreigners in PAP's priorities list
And they have muddied the waters for years by using terms like "Singapore residents" so that it has become more and more difficult to distinguish Singaporeans and foreigners statistics right in our own country
G, [28/1/2026 6:07 pm]
All the efforts that our fore fathers put in to work with 1G PAP to build national identity all thrown aside for "we first"
They gave up their dialects for mandarin and English
Their children listened to 1G PAP and limited their offspring to 2
And foreigners who come in to stay now are not required to have English proficiency
G, [28/1/2026 6:15 pm]
"... want to become part of this bigger fraternity," he added.
Eh. This is not some uni frat club eh. This is Singapore. Not some clubhouse that for you to suka suka let who you like in, and ostracise those who you don't like
Jun Ming, [28/1/2026 6:24 pm]
If we are as big as America or china in terms of size maybe I will allow this rate of people to come in but no sg is just a tiny red dot
G, [28/1/2026 6:26 pm]
As long as national identity is strengthened, not eroded, and put citizens first, most people won't mind immigration
G, [28/1/2026 6:43 pm]
What about foreigners who just come here to park their money, set up "family offices"?
There's little incentive for them to sink roots and integrate into Singapore society.
There was a dramatic surge in "family offices" set up between 2019 (approx 200) and 2025 (over 2000)
And some of these bring in money from questionable sources.. a number of these were implicated or involved in money laundering activities
It really feels like this 4G PAP govt has sold Singapore out to foreigners
REACH Singapore, [28/1/2026 6:45 pm]
Dear Contributors,
⏰ We will be closing the chat in 15 minutes ⏰
Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.
Goodnight!
Megan ๐
REACH Singapore, [28/1/2026 7:00 pm]
Dear Contributors
We will be closing the chat for today.
Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.
Goodnight!
Megan ๐
====
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