Singapore – Singapore’s presidential candidate of Indian origin, Tharman Shanmugaratnam, expressed his confidence in Singapore’s ability to cultivate a rich local culture while embracing its multi-national diversity. Tharman shared his views during the ‘5th Singapore Sheng Gong Cultural and Folklore Beliefs Festival’ at the Zen Ren Gong Temple in Redhill Province, reports the Straits Times. Accompanied by his wife, Zen Yumiko Itogi, Tharman emphasized the potential for Singaporeans to become more self-confident as their cultural understanding grows.
Having recently resigned from all political and ministerial positions to focus on his presidential candidacy, Tharman stressed the need for Singapore to reflect on its desired identity as it enters the next phase of development. He highlighted the importance of preserving traditions and posed the question of how Singapore can keep its cultural heritage alive. Tharman, 66, made his first public appearance since stepping down as a minister, expressing his belief that Singapore can foster a stronger culture and instill self-confidence by embracing and learning from different cultural backgrounds.
Addressing an audience of over 800 individuals from various folk traditions, Tharman applauded Singapore’s efforts in preserving its folk culture and traditions. Many temples in the country have withstood the test of time, with some dating back over a century and the oldest temple being approximately 200 years old.
As Singapore gears up for the upcoming presidential election, slated to take place before September 13 when President Halimah Yacoub’s term concludes, Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s candidacy offers an opportunity for Singaporeans to explore their cultural diversity and shape the nation’s identity for the future. Tharman’s vision of a vibrant and confident Singapore rooted in its traditions resonates with the country’s ongoing pursuit of cultural preservation and growth.
With cultural openness and a celebration of diversity at its core, Singapore continues to evolve as a nation that embraces the richness of its multi-ethnic heritage. As the presidential election approaches, the Singaporean people have a chance to elect a leader who values and fosters the nation’s unique blend of cultures, ensuring a bright and culturally prosperous future for Singapore and its people.
