Study on Integration in the Heartlands 

Synopsis:

Singapore has consistently placed emphasis on national integration efforts between locals and immigrants. Amidst increased globalisation and an expected continuation of immigration, there is a need to continuously examine ways to safeguard and enhance integration in our society. 

Conventional wisdom on discussions and management of national integration in Singapore centers on the belief that a ground-up, sustainable approach, and the provision of opportunities to facilitate meaningful interactions between locals and immigrants is key. There is therefore a need to create opportunities for shared experiences and friendships between locals and immigrants to foster mutual understanding and acceptance.

Against this backdrop, this study aims to understand the state of integration in our heartlands through an investigation of the factors that enable or impede integration. Specifically, it seeks to examine how the built environment (e.g., amenities) influences integration of various demographic groups within residential neighbourhoods. The study adopts the use of multiple qualitative methodologies spanning in-depth interviews (IDIs), focus group discussions (FGDs), site observations (SOs), and online journaling to produce robust and relevant insights.



Principal Investigator: Dr Mathew Mathews