Procreation: Space may not matter, but mindsets do
I refer to the report “‘Let’s talk’: Josephine Teo responds to clamour over ‘sex’ comment” (Oct 13, online). Singapore’s efforts to boost its fertility rate through incentives such as cash schemes may not be addressing this social issue.
I refer to the report “‘Let’s talk’: Josephine Teo responds to clamour over ‘sex’ comment” (Oct 13, online). Singapore’s efforts to boost its fertility rate through incentives such as cash schemes may not be addressing this social issue.
It is in our traditional Chinese upbringing to have a nest before laying eggs. A physical space provides peace of mind in the case of welcoming a baby.
A new mindset is needed for the state to support millennials in marriage and parenthood in the next decade, so that long-held assumptions will not be a hurdle to overcome before this young group even thinks of having babies.
Economic pressures trigger twenty-somethings to delay marriage, and couples may miss their fertility window. More catalysts — from mental preparedness classes for dating and/or matchmaking, to a two-week marriage leave benefit — are needed. The state should think outside the box.
If Singapore continues to be one of the most liveable cities, then what matters most to the millennial group would be work-life balance. Quality of life must be redefined to achieve a less stressful lifestyle, so millennials also need a mindset change.
The Government emphasises the importance of economic growth. If the low birth rate continues, the economic cost would be great.
Dating and relationship building takes time, so we must create the right climate. Procreation campaigns, with the good intention of having younger families, are not a joke anymore.