Recently, it seems that the societal melting pot of Singapore has been bubbling more violently than usual. Besides the usual four constituents of the melting pot, the Chinese, Malays, Indians and Eurasians, homosexuals are struggling to gain entry and acceptance into this delicate equilibrium. Debates have been dominating the online media, the local print media, and even the Parliament.
On the “Repeal 377A” side, a website was created for citizens to petition for the repeal of section 377A of the Penal Code, alleging that the Singapore does not recognize gays as part of the mainstream society. They claim that they want to repeal 377A for symbolic reasons, as a sign of the state’s acceptance of such a community and lifestyle. Also, they are not campaigning for any other new laws to be enacted, like gay marriages, unions, or adoptions, thus not “destroying the family unit”.
On the other side however, most conservatives claim that being homosexual is deviant, and homosexual acts are immoral. Moreover, they cited that men and men were not meant to be together, and it was against nature’s modus operandi. Many also fear that repealing 377A would provide a platform for pro-homosexual communities to push for further rights, and this was a catalyst for disaster.
Most importantly, the government has chosen to join the status quo camp. As Singapore is still largely conservative, and in order to keep the family unit intact, the state has to retain 377A. However, PM Lee cautioned that this should never turn into a numbers game. Naturally, conservatives would form the larger proportion as compared to homosexuals and Singapore would still have to consider homosexuals and how policies would affect them.
Personally, I feel that Singapore is not doing enough for the homosexual community. On one hand, Singapore is trying to promote a vibrant night scene, legalized gambling and a more “open” society generally, but by choosing a very safe stance on not supporting any side in the gay debate, Singapore is sending mixed signals both to the local and international community.
On the international arena, de-criminalizing homosexual acts is seen as a clear indication of an open and accommodating society. In ex-Communist countries, like Russia, Moldova and China, homosexuality has been decriminalized, and an increasing number of people have accepted homosexuals into the mainstream society. Other countries like Finland and Norway, which have always been the benchmark for liberalism, have in place laws to protect gays from being discriminated, ensuring fair chances of finding a job or gaining a military position.
Singapore might have dodged the bullet this time, by not directly addressing the problem of homosexuality in Singapore, but as time progresses, and people being more liberal, the shouts for decriminalization will get louder. Then, Singapore would have much more on her hands to solve. The upper echelons of Singapore's government have long bemoaned about the worrying trend of brain drain, but if they continue with such policies, Singapore might really have no talent left for the next generation.
(500 words)
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