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SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has reassured Singaporeans that the country's immigration policy will not upset the current mix of races among the population.
He said this as he delivered his National Day Rally speech at the University Cultural Centre on Sunday evening.
Starting first in Malay, Mr Lee said the current mix is stable and contributes to Singapore's racial and religious harmony.
His comments come as Singapore continues to attract foreign talent who contribute to the economy and integrate into society.
Mr Lee said it is not easy attracting Malay or pribumi talent from Southeast Asia, but Singapore must keep trying.
He said: "We must work hard to integrate new arrivals into our society, so that over time they will become Singaporean in their outlook and identity."
Education was another focus of Mr Lee's speech. He said: "Another priority for our future is education. The young have many different talents and interests - arts, music or sports, technical or academic subjects. We will upgrade our education system.
"We will create more pathways for students to follow, and more peaks for them to aim for. Every school will be a good school. Every school will have excellent facilities and ample resources.
"Every school will have dedicated, well-trained teachers. We will prepare our students to succeed in many fields in school, at work and in life."
Prime Minister Lee urged Malay Singaporeans to take full advantage of this national programme.
Mr Lee lauded the Malay/Muslim community for taking a clear stand against extremism and terrorism. By taking a clear stand, he said they have maintained strong trust and confidence with the other communities in Singapore.
He said a small number of Singaporean youths are becoming self-radicalised through the Internet, but it was fortunate they were spotted before they did any harm.
"This is a sensitive issue, but I feel that I have to raise it. My concern is with a small minority of vulnerable people. This should not distract us from other major issues - economy and jobs, education and training, and competitiveness and excellence; but nevertheless the issues of extremism and terrorism need your continued attention," he said.
Elaborating on the immigration issue in Mandarin, Mr Lee said the government understands Singaporeans' concerns over its negative impact. He also urged immigrants to mix with the different communities in Singapore.
Turning to his visit to the Integrated Resorts, he said he saw some Singaporeans at the casinos.
"But I hope they're just there to fulfil their curiosity, look for a bit of excitement. I hope they do not forget their proper jobs. I think the wise thing to do is to leave the gambling tables and slot machines to the tourists," he said.
Overall, however, he said the IRs have boosted Singapore's economy and tourism and enhanced Singapore's image as a creative and vibrant city.
On the economy, Mr Lee urged Singaporeans not to be complacent even if prospects are good.
He said small and medium enterprises especially must find new ways to thrive in the face of intense pressure from the big players.
Citing the example of "Mr Bean", Mr Lee said the business has grown, expanding from one stall at People's Park into one with more than 50 branches including one in Tokyo.
- CNA/ir
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