HarmonyWorks! Conference 2008: Beyond Tolerance; Embracing Diversity

HarmonyWorks! Conference 2008 themed “Beyond Tolerance: Embracing Diversity” provided insights and perspectives on the concerns of the changing climate and its impact on race relations in Singapore. The conference addressed the challenges in building an inclusive society where individuals and communities are globally connected but yet is increasingly diverse in culture, religion and language. Guest of Honour, Dr. Yaacob Ibrahim, Minister for the Environment and Water Resources graced the event.

Dr Norman Vasu, Assoc Professor, Dr Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) addressed participants on ‘Multiculturalism - Challenges and the Way Forward'. He shared the findings of the recent survey on the state of inter-ethnic and inter-religious relations by RSIS, its implications, and core issues of multiculturalism.

This was followed by breakout discussions led by OnePeople.sg's youth volunteer facilitators on three key issues related to the theme of the Conference – “Today in Parliament”, “DiverCity-The Next Generation” and “Dif-FRIENDS”. The conference closed with a dialogue session with Minister Yaacob Ibrahim, Mr. Zainudin Nordin, Chairman, OnePeople.sg and Mayor, Central Singapore District, Mr. Matthias Yao, Mayor, South East District, chaired by younger generation MPs, Mr. Zaqy Mohamad and Mr Michael Palmer.

Participants were forthcoming in interacting with the guests during the dialogue sessions and Q & A. Read about some of the participants' feedback and view the video highlights of HarmonyWorks! Conference 2008.