In Asia, we are told to respect our elders. In this culture of respect, we are told not to question their wisdom. In Singapore especially, we are trained in school to follow the model answers. The way of answering questions in tests and exams is very specific and any deviation — even when it results in the same answer — is not allowed.
In Singapore, anything sticking out will be hammered down. Dissent is prohibited when it is against local policies and the ruling party. While some forms of activism are tolerated or even encouraged within certain parameters, others may face challenges due to Singapore’s strict laws and cultural norms.
1. Government Restrictions: Singapore has laws and regulations that limit certain forms of activism, particularly those that are seen as threatening social stability or challenging the authority of the government. The Public Order Act, for example, requires organizers of public assemblies to obtain police permits, and the government has been known to tightly control public demonstrations and protests. This can make it difficult for activists to express dissent or advocate for change openly.
2. Cultural Emphasis on Harmony and Stability: Singaporean society places a strong emphasis on social harmony and stability, often prioritizing consensus-building and pragmatic solutions over confrontational…
