Forum: Let's not drift into identity politics
I read with interest the article, 'Identity politics gained more prominence in GE2025, unity is S'pore's key strength: SM Teo' (May 21).
Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean's caution about the greater prominence of identity politics in GE2025 deserves serious reflection – not only by politicians, but also by all Singaporeans.
Singapore's success has never depended on erasing differences. Instead, it has come from weaving them into a common fabric – one that values diversity but insists on shared purpose. This is not an easy feat. Few countries have managed to hold together such a mix of cultures, languages and faiths without slipping into polarisation or paralysis.
Yet today, the threat is less about overt conflict and more about subtle drift. Identity politics – once a foreign narrative – now laps at our shores. It speaks the language of justice and representation, but when untethered from national interest, it can erode trust, segment the electorate, and turn community into cleavages.
The airing of legitimate concerns – be they cultural, religious, linguistic or socio-economic – is paramount in a maturing democracy. But when electoral strategies begin to revolve around who one is, rather than what one stands for, politics assumes a negative narrative.
We must remember that no group in Singapore is an island. The HDB housing blocks, the hawker centres, the LRT and MRT trains – all are daily reminders that our lives are deeply interwoven. Elections, too, should reflect that. Campaigns must speak to what unites us, even as they address what distinguishes us.
We cannot outsource this responsibility. Singaporeans must value leaders who articulate inclusive visions over parochial appeals. Educators, media and civil society must resist negative imported narratives that amplify cleavages and division over dialogue. And political parties must remember that their legitimacy rests not just in representing interests, but also in reinforcing the social fabric.
Irwan Jamil
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