AS MORE Chinese nationals come to Singapore to work, I wonder if too little is being done to integrate the study mamas, who are part of this group of immigrants, into Singapore society.

Many foreigners pay an arm and a leg to come here, and will try all means to survive to ensure that their undertaking was worthwhile.

Failure is not an option for them, because it means that not only will they lose out on their investment, but they will also suffer a loss of face when they return home and are branded failures.

The authorities could do more to integrate study mamas into Singapore society.

Grassroots organisations such as Residents' Committees could arrange gatherings involving foreigners living in the
neighbourhood.

Singaporeans who are their neighbours could also go the extra mile by making them feel welcome.

Many foreigners in Singapore feel lonely and isolated.

It is not surprising that they associate with their countrymen, while excluding others from their social circle.

Even though there are close to a million foreigners working among us, I have yet to get to know one whom I could call and go out for a drink with.

Many simply fraternise with fellow immigrants from their homeland or keep to themselves.

It is time we made an attempt to reach out to them, or else our society will remain alien to this growing group.

Mr Gilbert Goh Keow Wah

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