Identifying Singapore

Just a week after Singapore celebrated National Day the country’s table-tennis players reached the final of the women’s team competition at the Beijing Olympics. Despite guaranteeing Singapore’s first Olympic medal since 1960, the country is not yet in the grip of Olympic excitement.

Many families have been here for two or three generations, enough to reinforce a sense of entitlement that comes with citizenship. Immigrants may have been Singapore’s bedrock more than 60 years ago, but it is those like my parents have been here since independence in 1965 that helped to build it. It is no surprise that there is a bit of indifference to those who do not appear to be Singaporean enough taking the glory for the country.

Yet, the reality is that Singapore is again showing signs of becoming a country of immigrant. A trickle of foreign nationals has become a full-flowing tap that is not stopping over the last few years. A friend returned from overseas recently and was surprised at the different accents that are heard on the streets.

As Singapore celebrates its 43rd year of existence, we are living in changing times. In 10 years, we will probably encounter a very different country. And that probably means accepting those who come here in search of fortune, and even sporting fame. Even if they are not going to stay here for the rest of their lives.

Happy belated birthday Singapore, and good luck to Li Jiawei, Wang Yuegu and Feng Tian Wei against China on Sunday evening.

Just one request, though, ladies. Could one of you at least speak some proper English in the post-match interviews so that I can understand what you are saying? I would love to know how it feels to be a Singaporean Olympic medal winner.