Silent majority must speak out: Anti-foreign sentiment is detrimental to the economy

TEN years ago, Singapore saw its first outbreak of anti-foreign sentiment, or xenophobia, since independence in the run-up to, during and after General Election 2011. Then, the issue was rapid population growth in the first decade of this century without enough infrastructure to support it.

Today, the business community and society are experiencing another bout of anti-foreign sentiment caused by the economic fallout of the pandemic. This is dangerous to Singapore's hub status for business and talent. It undermines the exceptional Singapore brand and, consequently, is detrimental for employment opportunities for the Singaporean core. The silent majority needs to speak out against anti-foreign sentiment now with one voice. This is important and urgent.

Who are the silent majority?