Manpower minister Dr Tan See Leng reminded NCMP Mr Leong Mun Wai that both their fathers came from another country, that Singapore is an immigrant society, that he should stop rehashing the “foreigners are stealing our lunch” debate. In short, Dr Tan is implying that if foreigners did not sink roots here, becoming PRs and citizens, where would Singapore be?
Dr Tan has a point, except he forgot that when his father came to Singapore, it was not a country; it was a British colony where people far and wide came to make a living, and indeed, many went back to their country after accumulating some money.
It was only in 1965 that Singapore became a fully independent country, and with it, the process of building a nation began, and citizens had to make big sacrifices and commitments – all male Singaporeans had to serve National Service; many people had to sell their land to the State for a pittance so that redevelopment could proceed smoothly; they agreed to abide by very strict laws so that harmony and prosperity could thrive; they gave up their way of life to embrace a national identity; just to name a few.
Singapore the country, did not survive and prosper by happenstance, it did so by the hard work and sacrifice of its people.
By bringing in more foreigners, Dr Tan is stabbing all Singaporeans who live on a wage in the back, because it effectively reduces their market rate but increases the capitalist’s profit. And in so doing, he is making a mockery of the sacrifices they are making as citizens.
Dr Tan ought to be clear in his mind, whether his government is building a nation, or a marketplace to secure the highest profit for the capitalist.
He should also ponder, if his government is truly building a nation, would the Total Fertility Rate be so low that the nation cannot replace itself but has to import foreigners?
Foong Swee Fong
