Open for business, closed in our hearts? Immigration and the future of Singapore identity

FEW in Singapore need to be told that openness brings opportunities. Global capital, regional headquarters, international schools and myriad talent from around the globe is an integral part of the operating environment here.

But with growing immigration over the past decades, it is unclear whether Singaporeans are feeling more open, or more guarded about who gets to be part of “us”.

As illustrated by a number of our studies, Singaporeans remain proud of their country and comfortable with diversity, but are unsure about how immigration fits into the national story.