By Bryan Huang

IF SINGAPORE falls prey to religious and racial bigotry, the economic crisis would become a growing cancer in society, instead of just a passing thunderstorm, Minister of State for Defence Koo Tsai Kee warned on Wednesday.

Speaking to Parliament, Mr Koo noted that there are a growing number of Singaporeans identifying themselves with their race and religion, which is 'nothing wrong if seen in the right perspective'. He is worried about 'small groups becoming self-righteous and intolerant of diversity.'

'This intolerance may be our downfall,' said Mr Koo, who is also MP for Tanjong Pagar GRC.

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