QUITTERS OR STAYERS? THE CONSTRUCTION OF SINGAPOREAN IDENTITY IN TWO NATIONAL DAY RALLY SPEECHES

Abstract

This thesis provides a critical reading of two sets of referring terms used by the state to construct a distinct Singaporean identity, namely Singaporeans as either cosmopolitans or heartlanders; and Singaporeans as either stayers or quitters in two National Day Rally Speeches, 1999 and 2002 respectively. Both speeches were delivered by Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong. This thesis focuses on the metaphorical usage in two National Day Rally speeches and the pervasive theme of construction of a distinct Singaporean identity. Through three interconnected levels of analysis: conceptual, linguistic and communicative, this thesis aims not only to question the nature of the constructed Singaporean identity, but to suggest that the construction of national identities is never absolute but imbued with fluid shades of grey. The discussion is based on a combination of sources: National Day Rally speeches, parliamentary reports and newspaper articles which will illustrate that Singaporean identity is not as dichotomous as Prime Minister Goh has made it out to be in his speeches. Taking into consideration the socio-political context of Singapore in examining the official construction of Singaporean identity, this thesis also seeks to unpack the motivations and ideologies underlying the construction.