Singaporean Independence Day (known as National Day) may not be until August 9th, but Singaporeans have already been celebrating the 50th anniversary of their independence for several months. The festivities are being branded as SG50, a yearlong observance of the city-state’s emergence as an independent nation from Malaysia. A campaign called “Singapore Spirit” has been spreading, as people from all generations, genders and races contribute their experiences and thoughts about what it means to be a Singaporean.
If you’ve ever strolled through downtown Singapore, you may have been surprised to learn that just over a century ago, the bustling metropolis was not much more than a small fishing village. From an intercultural perspective, Singapore’s development and modernization are directly in line with their distinction as one of the most future-oriented cultures in the world. So, why are Singaporeans in particular looking toward the future? According to the 2007 HBR article linked above, it has a lot to do with a culture built around innovation and competitiveness.
As a young, thriving nation, Singapore has overcome great obstacles to become a tiny powerhouse in the global economy. Singaporean culture is an ever-evolving cultural mix of Chinese, Malays, Indians and international expatriates who call the city-state their home. They pride themselves on having a forward-thinking, egalitarian culture compared to most Asian nations but still hang on to certain traditions, such as deferential treatment of elderly persons and holding family in high esteem.
Besides their racial and cultural diversity, Singaporeans from different generations have different values and cultural behaviors. As is the case in many countries, Generation X and Y Singaporeans may have more in common with people from the same generation in another country than they have with their parents. At the same time, the Chinese, Malay and Indian cultures have many similar cultural behaviors that remain the underpinnings of the culture. How this will transition in the future remains to be seen. (As of 2010, Generation X and Y employees comprised 60% of the workforce.)
Young Singaporeans are more future-oriented, career-driven, and globally aware than ever before and it will surely be interesting to see what happens to this prosperous young nation in the next fifty years. One thing is certain; Singapore is on a continued economic upswing and will only continue to thrive. As we reflect on this nation’s ascent from a small British colony to a global financial center, let’s also remember the integral role culture has played in making Singapore what it is today.