The National Population and Talent Division (NPTD) has outlined the roadmap for Singapore’s population policies in its Population White Paper: A Sustainable Population for a Dynamic Singapore (3mb .pdf). The stated aim is to build a sustainable population with a strong Singaporean core — that strengthens our social cohesion, while providing a good living environment for Singaporeans and maintaining our economic vitality.
The paper made a recommendation to grow Singapore’s population to 6.9 million in 2030:
Most ordinary Singaporeans like me cannot fathom how we can still accommodate an influx of another 1 million people, made up of mostly foreigners.
As it already is, there is severe strain on our quality of living with a flagging public transport system, overheated housing market, record-high COE prices, among many other factors.
Though there are some who supported the paper, negative reactions came fast and furious.
A Facebook group called “Say ‘NO’ to an overpopulated Singapore” has close to 7,000 fans now in less than a week since the paper was released.
For me, I tend to agree with Yawning Bread that the white paper should be focused on our children – the future generation of Singaporeans instead of GDP growth.
I am not entirely opposed to a 6.9 million population, but the ruling government has to show me they can fix all the existing problems first.
In fact, the white paper seems to be discouraging Singaporeans from having more children! Just think about the future stress your kids will have to go through with severe overcrowding in education, housing and the job market!
I am definitely having second thoughts now on having more than one child.
On a lighter note, we have a vision for tomorrow… and here is how will be with a 6.9 million population in Singapore 2030:
All pictures consolidated via various Facebook posts, SGAG Singapore, EDMW and other forums.
