Singapore's racial and religious harmony requires the commitment and continued support of all communities and Singaporeans

Singapore's racial and religious harmony is a strength that requires the commitment and continued 
support of all communities and Singaporeans, DPM Teo Chee Hean said. 

“It takes special efforts and measures to keep Singapore peaceful and harmonious,” said Mr Teo.

This includes having “guide-ropes and guard-rails” to help the nation progress in its journey to become “one united people”.

“We introduced (the) Group Representative Constituencies to assure our minority communities that they will always have representation in Parliament,” said Mr Teo.

The recent changes to the Elected Presidency, he said, seeks to ensure that members of the major racial communities here can hold the highest office of the President if it has not happened after five continuous terms, or after 30 years.

Mr Teo added that, through the years, Singapore has introduced “important institutions, laws and regulations to help prevent conflict and keep communities together”.

“Singaporeans of all faiths now live together in Housing Development Board estates, study together in national schools, eat together in food centres, serve National Service and work together,” he said.

Mr Teo also called on Singaporeans to “pledge (themselves) to a renewed spirit to take Singapore forward with opportunities for all regardless of race, language or religion”.

Mr Teo was speaking in Malay at the 13th Ministry of Home Affairs Appreciation lunch for community volunteers.