Table of Contents
Multiculturalism, a concept which stresses respect and fairness among various cultures and group identities as a principle, has become an essential asset for the majority of nations all over the world, in both organizations and commercially as well (Verkuyten, 2007). Countries such as Singapore, a nation where various cultures have lived hand in hand for years, thrive off of multiculturalism. Singapore carries the belief that functioning as a unified and peaceful society is key, with this being affirmed through the country having a robust cultural identity and promoting a non-threatening social climate (Noor & Leong, 2013).
Although this is closely followed, the proportions of races in Singapore do not fully complement this. As of 2013, Singaporeans comprised of 74.1% Chinese, 13.4% Malay, 9.2% Indian, and 3.3% other races (Noor & Leong, 2013). In addition, multiculturalism has been viewed as a failure and the cause of economic disadvantage in some European countries (Ward, Gale, Staerkle, & Stuart, 2018). To test if the proportions correlate with the state of the country and its people, a study was conducted.
Action
Observing this with a reflection into real-life settings, data was collected at IKEA and Toys’R’Us in Tampines, Singapore. At IKEA, it was noted that out of 102 frames with filler pictures, 67 contained Chinese, 14 Malays, eight Indians, six mixed, and seven white people. At Toys’R’Us, using dolls with human features, 196 dolls were found to be white and 50 were not.
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Reflection
The data collected openly reflects the percentages from Noor and Leong’s (2013) paper with similar numbers. Although this could spark some controversy, that is not the case in Singapore. Unlike particular countries where multiculturalism is viewed as a threat to flexible values and national identity (Ward et al., 2018), Singapore’s government has emphasized on weakening racial threats which have been frequently seen in various societies (Noor & Leong, 2013). One study showed that all of the different races in Singapore were confident and comfortable if someone of a differing race were to help them in dire times of need (Chin & Vasu, 2012). This backs the interpretation of multiculturalism where it observes, identifies, and also praises cultural differences (Plaut, Thomas, & Goren, 2009). Despite the data evidently corresponding with the ratios of races, Singapore has established itself as a country that has proven multiculturalism is indeed a success, disregarding what European countries deem a liability.
Additionally, some limitations to this study were detected as only two stores were visited to collect data. It is not practical to conclude that these numbers apply nationwide, so in order to further cement and support this, more data needs to be gathered. On a larger, more preferred scale, the study should be extended to as many or maybe even all stores in Singapore to see whether they match with the data found here. This is to fully grasp the concept of multiculturalism and how it is falsely represented in the country. Furthermore, a follow-up of Chin and Vasu’s (2012) study could be conducted to reiterate and reinforce the current strength of multiculturalism in Singapore.
