A Nations Common Ground: Singapore We dont get to choose where were born, but where were born plays

a huge part in who we are, and what we can achieve. A nation composed of individuals like you and me has the unique ability to empower its citizens, give them opportunities, and improve their lives. Singapore an island nation only 45 years old, currently has one of the fastest growing economies in the world, is one of the wealthiest countries in the world (in terms of GDP), and has an extremely high standard of living. These qualities possessed by the young nation give Singaporeans much reason to be proud. This nation and this people share a unique heritage a story of immense growth and success that is rarely heard elsewhere, and perhaps when we look to Singapores story, we may identify some of the reasons why. A few main features of the Singaporean community contribute largely to its identity. As a young nation, there are a few policies that have been implemented since its independence that have affected the lives of all Singaporeans. Bilingualism (Study of English and a second Mother Tongue) which is compulsory for all Singaporean students up till Secondary Education, and National Service which is mandatory for Singaporean males (At age 18/ Upon completion of studies). Aside from these two main common factors, Singaporeans despite their differing ethnic backgrounds (74.2% Chinese, 13.4% Malay, 9.2% Indian, 3.2% Others) share much culture in common such as a common love for food and travel. These two things Bilingualism and National Service (NS) are often the centre of local controversy and complaint, and are often not celebrated as factors that most Singaporeans share in common. Despite the general lack of appreciation of what the Singaporean government is doing for its people, Singaporeans definitely are able to make use of this common ground provided for them. The ability to be bilingual fluent in both English and a mother tongue, allows Singaporeans to retain respective ethnic cultures while being able to adapt to global changes and become an increasingly metropolitan and cosmopolitan city-nation. The common use of English means easy communication with the many tourists who visit Singapore annually making tourism one of Singapores largest attractions. While the ability to converse and be literate in a second language most commonly Chinese (due to the large Chinese population) gives Singaporeans a competitive edge in the foreign job market in China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Although many Singaporean students often complain during their time in the education system about their dislike for the compulsory study of their mother tongue, the ability to be

bilingual truly is an upper-hand to be thanked for in the long run. It gives Singaporeans the opportunity to communicate with those from foreign countries that speak the same language, and is really the most important way in which Singaporeans can continue to keep in touch with their respective ethnic cultures and identities. National Service is something much less appreciated by the Singaporean males than bilingualism. The idea of conscription and giving up two years of ones youth is usually greatly disliked, but Singapore is not the only nation to enforce a conscription program. South Korea, Israel, Taiwan, Russia, Greece, Norway, Turkey, Finland, Austria, and Germany all have similar programs although differing in structure and duration. Of these, Singapore, South Korea, and Israel have the most similar programs lasting around 2 years in mandatory paid military service for all males (unless exempted). The 2 years given up to serve the country give these men experience, training, and perhaps most importantly, common ground. It gives them the ability to relate and converse about something theyve all experienced regardless of race, upbringing, or personal preference. This translates to every aspect of a Singaporean males life, be it during his service in the national army, while furthering his studies (post-service), or even later on at the workplace. Aside from these two large common factors, Singaporeans share something else equally important in common a common love for food. If not having a meal, Singaporeans are thinking of their next meal. Put two Singaporeans in a room, and theyll talk about food. With a kaleidoscope of local and foreign food, good food in Singapore is never more than a stones throw away. This common love and appreciation of good food also helps Singaporeans be more aware of food from different cultures. The local foods that come mainly from Chinese, Peranakan, Malay, and South Indian cultures also mean that Singaporeans are more aware of religious dietary restrictions than most due to the religions of the three largest ethnic groups in Singapore (Chinese Buddhist/Taoist, Malay Muslim, Indian Hindu). A common love for food becomes a common source of knowledge not just for local and international cuisine, but for the cultures that they come from. A common experience becomes a means to relate with others, and a chance to understand and befriend people we would otherwise never have met. And a common language allows for more means of communication, the opportunity to retain easily lost culture, and a competitive edge. All these things that we share in common with each other are not just another love, experience, or language, they are a common ground a source for knowledge, and something shared as a nation. Common ground much more than just the soil beneath our feet, common ground is not just what we share as a people, but common ground is what unites us as a people, a unique history, a unique bond, and an outstanding nation Singapore.