Ignis Article 2

The Origin of Racial Harmony Day in Singapore

Racial Harmony Day is celebrated annually on 21July in Singapore. The main purpose of the event is to commemorate the race riots that took place in 21July 1964. Today, this event celebrates the years of success Singapore has achieved in maintaining a racially harmonious society that is built on a rich diversity of culture and heritage.

The need to celebrate racial harmony

Every year, schools celebrate Racial Harmony Day as an attempt to let students understand that racial harmony is something that should not be taken for granted. Students are encouraged to wear their traditional costumes and traditional games are played, sometimes as inter-class competitions. Also, traditional food from the various races is sold in the canteen.

Indeed, racial harmony is something that we cannot take for granted. Racial issues have caused wars, violence and unrest in many parts of the world. Even till today, many of these issues have not been resolved. Singaporeans should consider themselves fortunate to be living in a society with hardly any racial disputes.

However, does this necessarily mean that we need to celebrate racial harmony? Many claim that this annual celebration is just a showcase of our success. With or without it, racial harmony will still prevail. In my opinion, there is no need for a day to celebrate racial harmony; what is more important is that we instill in our children the mindset that racial harmony requires everyone’s effort.

Yes, racial harmony will prevail in Singapore whether or not we celebrate Racial Harmony Day, but it will be non-existent when races become intolerant of each other’s behaviour. The relationship between the different races is actually a very fragile one. We need to learn to be tolerant and understanding of different races’ customs and traditions to maintain this racial harmony that is difficult to come by. This message is what needs to be brought across the younger generation in order for Singapore’s racial harmony to last.

A celebration is only for a day, but racial harmony needs to be sustained. Rather than remembering the importance of racial harmony only once a year, students, even the general public, should be constantly reminded of its importance. Without it, we will lose our advantage of relative peace to other countries, which may result in the stagnation of our economy. The Singapore government acknowledges the importance of this and has imposed strict rules for those who attempt to bring up racial conflicts. So far, a few bloggers have been jailed for their racist comments.

How much of a difference will there be if we do not celebrate Racial Harmony Day?

As mentioned earlier, there probably would not be too big of a difference if we do not celebrate Racial Harmony Day. However, schools can try to be more innovative in their methods of the celebration so that students would not have to sit through the same celebrations every year and gain nothing out of it. Interesting and innovative events can be used not only to let students understand the crucial importance of racial harmony, but also allow both students and teachers to have fun.