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Singapore sets sail on next phase of its nation-building journey
The state played a strong role in shaping Singapore’s identity. Citizens must now step up to mould the next phase.
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Spectators doing the Kallang Wave during the National Day Parade at the Padang. With a population now having bought into the aspirations of the National Pledge, realising it through lived experiences is needed for the next stages of nation-building, says the writer.
ST PHOTO: MARK CHEONG
Tan Tai Yong
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It is ironic that Singapore did not originally aim to be a nation-state but, 60 years on, has become such a successful one.
In its first chapter, Singapore forged a strong national identity, often with robust state intervention. The next phase of nation-building may involve more civic-driven efforts.
