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SINGAPORE : Immigration was the hottest topic discussed on the government feedback unit REACH.
It received comments from more than 1,200 members of the public after the Prime Minister's National Day Rally speech.
Replying to Channel NewsAsia queries, REACH said the immigration issue accounted for 30 per cent of the overall discussion on its various channels, such as the Discussion Forum, Facebook, email and over the telephone.
REACH said many contributors agreed with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong that Singapore should remain open to foreigners, and also acknowledged the need for foreign workers.
But they were concerned about competition from foreigners for jobs and housing.
They were also worried about over-crowding and the cost of living.
There were also calls for the government to exercise stricter criteria to ensure immigrants can truly contribute to Singapore.
Some raised the issue of integration and suggested new citizens could serve at voluntary welfare or grassroots organisations.
Feedback contributors also felt that "brain drain", where talented Singaporeans give up their citizenship, should also be addressed.
REACH said the issue of foreigners and social cohesion has remained the top 5 topic of discussion over the last 12 months. - CNA /ls
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