Page 24 - Visionary Arts 2019

Since the 1990s, when Singapore has constantly become

modernised, proved by its continuous economic progression, efficient
infrastructures, the stability of the country, and the way people

incline to a consumeristic way of life, Singapore proceeds to focus
further on citizenship. The government invented ‘Shared Values’

which is to create a sense of unity and cosmopolitanism towards

Singaporeans at the same time. Most importantly, the government
proactively encourage people to use proper English, e.g., ‘Speak Good

English’ campaign, leading to its higher prestige than Singlish. As far

as I am concerned, it is perceivable that people from different
cultures could practically live together. For example, amongst the

people celebrating their Chinese Lunar New Year in Chinatown, Hindu
people were performing their rituals at ‘Sri Mariamman Temple’ which

is located around Chinatown as well.

Although government has managed to define their national

identity and encourage citizens to conform to it, Singaporeans also
create and define their sense of identity per se. Unquestionably, when

people think of Singapore, ‘Singlish’ would be one of the most

frequent answers. Singlish, a hybrid language of English, Chinese,
Malay, and Tamil, fairly represents Singapore identity since the

majority of Singaporeans use it as a colloquial speech in daily life.

From my experience, I once had a long conversation with a Chinese
elderly camera shop-owner who spoke Singlish. Another is when I had

a chance of visiting the National Museum of Singapore. It could be
seen that Singlish is penetrated throughout society. Furthermore, in a

way, the widespread use of Singlish in everyday life could be seen as
a resistance to a stereotyping image they are portrayed by the

government.

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