" Celebrating ethnic festivals serves as focal points for inter-racial bounding."

As Singapore becomes more connected with other countries in the globalised economy, we must ensure that our national bonds do not grow weak

Whether we live or work here or overseas, Singaporeans must develop a stronger sense of belonging to this country and embrace a common vision of the country as a home worth returning to and if need be, fighting and dying for.

We need to feel passionately about Singapore -- that this is where our roots are and where our future lies. Some of us feel that this is home because we grew up here. For others, this island has become home because they have chosen to make it so. Whatever our origins may be, we are united by the common vision of Singapore as our home. And only when all citizens share this common passion for the country will the Singapore heartbeat be strong.