In my opinion, Singaporeans are more humane and compassionate than materialistic and self-centred. The materialistic and self-centred deeds of a minority of Singaporeans should not be used to describe Singaporeans as a whole. In fact, many Singaporeans have contributed to the society and helped those who are in need.
Foreign aid is given generously to any country that is in need of help. Singapore, like many other countries, has given humanitarian help in times of crisis. For us, our aid is in the form of the Red Cross society. The Red Cross society has helped countries such as Indonesia and Kashmir through donations and manpower. Furthermore, no material rewards can be obtained from such actions. This shows that the government is willing to help our countries in need without materialistic desires. Not only does the Singaporean government show compassion through foreign aid, but so do our citizens. Volunteerism in overseas places like Bhutan, Indonesia and Vietnam has indeed helped to alleviate the suffering of victims in those countries. Are you willing to sacrifice time with your loved ones to help others for no materialistic gains? I believe that as Singapore is a developed and prosperous nation, we should not ignore the fact that many people from poorer countries are suffering as we speak.
Nowadays, more Singaporeans are involved in community service. Charity concerts by individuals and organisations have raised substantial sums of money to help people who are in need. Even students are involved in community service, through Community Involvement Programmes. This is an important step in nurturing students to be considerate and compassionate, as instilling such values while they are young will be more effective. Singaporeans are also raising funds for charity through their own effort and sweat, in events such as marathons or races. It is indeed heartwarming that Singaporeans are willing to help others in need.
Social causes are gaining more public attention. Mistreatment of animals by a minority of Singaporeans have resulted in letters to the press, indicting abusive acts towards animals. I feel that such abusive acts towards animals cannot be condoned, and it is good news that public awareness has been raised about these issues.
The government has implemented projects to destigmatise sections of society that are being marginalised, such as the Yellow Ribbon project for ex-convicts and Silver Ribbon project for people with mental illness. These projects have helped many disabled or ex-convicts to integrate into society. In my opinion, we cannot have stereotypes of them just because of their background, in order to emphathise with them, we must put ourselves in their shoes.
Singaporeans seek non-materialistic rewards and quality of life rather than pure materialism. Most Singaporeans travel to enrich themselves, gain knowledge and have memorable experiences. These non-materialistic pursuits done for intrinsic value are evident in our country's expeditions to Mt. Everest and the South Pole.
Materialism may not necessarily be a self-centred or negative attitude. It can also be seen as a display of love for family members as such people seek a better standard of living for their loved ones. As the saying goes, we cannot judge a book by its cover. In my opinion, Singaporeans are more humane and compassionate than materialistic and self-centred.
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