Losing the Race: Is it time for Singapore to do away with the CMIO model?

Abstract

This thesis aims to investigate the relevance of the CMIO model in structuring political, economic, and social policies in Singapore today. This model is based on the PAP government’s multiracial philosophy. This philosophy has been shaped by Singapore’s geographical position, demographic make-up and economic imperatives. Since independence, the PAP government has institutionalized policies based on this philosophy. The literature review will highlight the contending positions taken by PAP politicians and intellectuals, on the relevance of the CMIO model. I will then argue that the PAP government has to refine its multiracial philosophy by adopting a more all-encompassing position with regards to the CMIO model. This entails the de-emphasis of the CMIO model. I argue that this action is fundamental in light of the new challenges facing Singapore, namely, the impact of immigration on, and the threat of terror to, the polity. This study is important as the Singaporean polity has been experiencing the pressures from both these new challenges. There is a need to mitigate these challenges in order to continue to have security, stability and prosperity in Singapore. Since most policies revolve around the PAP’s multiracial philosophy and hence the CMIO model, it is important to examine it in great depth to determine if it is still relevant for Singapore today.