Forum: Dear You reminded me of what it means to be Singaporean

The Chinese film Dear You spoke to my professional interest as a historian studying the connections between South-east Asia and China. The plot also resonated personally with me, though not just because of my Chinese Singaporean heritage. It prompted me to reflect deeper on who I am, and who I am not.

As a PhD researcher in the UK, I am frequently mistaken for being a citizen of China. This assumption is often made because I am ethnically Chinese, speak fluent Mandarin, and use Chinese mobile applications such as WeChat. Yet, these characteristics do not define my nationality and identity.

Living overseas has strengthened my appreciation of what it means to be Singaporean. When introducing myself abroad, I identify myself first and foremost as Singaporean rather than “Chinese”, as this term is often understood in the form of nationality instead of ethnicity.

What makes me Singaporean goes beyond the passport I hold. It is the product of growing up in Singapore’s multicultural society, shaped by daily interactions with people of different races and religions. This is reflected in shared experiences such as school life, national service and a food culture that is uniquely Singaporean.

For me, Dear You is a timely reminder that identity is shaped as much by lived experience as by ancestry. While my ethnic roots may be Chinese, my sense of belonging, civic identity and loyalty are firmly Singaporean.

Jeremy Goh