Debate on President’s speech: Foo Cexiang on multiculturalism as a social and economic imperative

These are the “best of times” for Singapore’s multiculturalism to shine, build bridges and bring light to a dark and fragmented world, said MP Foo Cexiang. Speaking in parliament on Wednesday (Sep 24), he pointed out that Singaporeans who grew up in a multicultural environment and can build connections across cultures are strongly positioned to seize and grow opportunities. Companies worldwide will want talent who can build trust and thrive in multicultural teams. Singapore's multiculturalism is no longer just a social imperative but an economic one, he said. He urged the government to reevaluate the levers to make them more effective, such as focusing not just on common values, but also understanding the differences.