Why does Singapore have different races?

The practice of classifying the local population based on their races or ethnicities was born out of British colonial practices. Race categories were enshrined through local censuses and the issuance of identity cards.

Why does Singapore flag have a crescent?

Meaning. The National Flag consists of two equal horizontal sections, red above white. White symbolises pervading and everlasting purity and virtue. The crescent moon represents a young nation on the ascendant, and the five stars depict Singapore’s ideals of democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality.

What are the main cultures in Singapore?

The culture in Singapore is defined by the different ethnic groups in the city-state. Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences are all palpable there, making for a mix of traditions and local customs.

How do we define race?

Race is defined as “a category of humankind that shares certain distinctive physical traits.” The term ethnicities is more broadly defined as “large groups of people classed according to common racial, national, tribal, religious, linguistic, or cultural origin or background.”

What is a Singaporean Singaporean identity?

After Singapore’s split from Malaysia, the Singapore government pushed for the development of a “Singaporean Singapore” identity based on racial equality, with race acting as a secondary identifier alongside the Singaporean national identity.

What is the history of race and ethnicity in Singapore?

The concept of race or ethnicity in contemporary Singapore emerged from the attitudes of the colonial authorities towards race and ethnicity. Before the early 2000s, the four major races in Singapore were the Chinese, Malays, Indians and Eurasians.

Can I change my race in Singapore?

Singaporeans are allowed to change their race twice: once before the age of 21, and once at or after the age of 21. They would have to execute a Statutory Declaration stating their reason (s) for the change, and undertaking not to change their race again.

Are mixed-race Singaporeans allowed to choose between their parents’ races?

Previously, mixed-race Singaporeans were allowed to choose between either of their parents’ races and no allowance was made for mixed-race children, with the exception of Eurasians. For relevant Government policies (e.g. the Ethnic Integration Policy ), the first component of a double-barrelled race is used.