Policies can spur social mixing but people have to change as well

I refer to the report, “The Big Read: Social stratification — a poison seeping into S’pore’s housing estates and schools” (May 27). 

Every capitalist and developed economy is bound to have some form of social stratification. The gravity of the situation is varied from country to country.

Singapore has recognised the significance of it. The Government is trying its best by formulating policies and measures to mitigate income inequality, ensuring social mobility and enhancing social integration. It aims to minimise the impact of social stratification.

In strengthening the social mixing, National Service has been an effective social mobilisation scheme to encourage bonding. It provides an opportunity for national servicemen from different family backgrounds and academic qualifications to rub shoulders with and gain understanding of each other, all while training and working together.

For a calibrated and long-term approach in promoting social mixing, interaction and bonding, my view is that public housing should be located closer to private housing.

Our education system, besides the strong emphasis on academic excellence or achievement, should also emphasise students' ability to develop empathy and compassion for people who are disadvantaged or less privileged.

The more effective way is to mobilise and maximise the teaching resources, alumni, parents and students of the elite schools to engage and have regular activities of social interaction with people outside their circles.

Various communities, charities and non-profit organisations in Singapore have collaborated and rendered assistance to the needy, too.

We must bear in mind that no matter how much effort we put in to narrow or bridge these social gaps, we cannot solely rely on government policies to take the lead and make an impact. The population at large has a role to play as well, in terms of changing attitudes and mindsets.