Debated in Parliament on 8 Jan 2018.
Mr Pritam Singh asked the Prime Minister (a) how does the Ministry persuade Permanent Residents (PRs) to take up Singapore citizenship; (b) how many PRs have held on to their PR status for more than 10, 15, 20 and 25 years respectively and by nationality; and (c) what are the common reasons cited by these individuals for not taking up Singapore citizenship.
About 15% of Permanent Residents (PRs) have been PRs for 20 or more years. The majority of such PRs originate from Southeast Asian countries.
Taking up citizenship is a serious commitment which is ultimately a personal decision. The vast majority of adult new citizens who have made this commitment to become citizens have lived here for some time, or have family ties to Singaporeans, such as spouses.
PRs contribute to Singapore in many different ways and add to our strengths as a society and economy.
The best way to encourage qualified PRs who have decided to make their future here to consider applying for citizenship is to continue to ensure that our Singapore Citizens are well looked after in a Singapore that continues to do well. To reflect the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship and to acknowledge Singapore Citizens' commitment to Singapore, citizens receive more support and benefits than PRs in several areas, such as parenthood, housing, healthcare and education.
In recent years, we have widened the differentiation in benefits accorded to Singapore Citizens and PRs.
It is also important that we continue to be an inclusive society that is open and gracious. How welcoming and accepting we are of newcomers will also impact on their decision to sink roots here permanently.
PAPERCUTS