I REFER to recent reports on the immigration divide in Singapore.

Some locals do not take kindly to immigrants, despite the Government's regular advocacy of immigration.

Due to limited land area, the influx of foreigners during the past five years has strained resources and taxed facilities enormously.

More significantly, due to the still-turbulent economy, Singaporeans have to fight with foreigners for jobs.

There is also the perception that many foreigners who settle down here are not real talents who will add value to the economy.

The Government is perceived to be too lax in letting in immigrants, simply to beef up the population numbers due to a weakening birth rate.

Singapore runs the risk of seeing this group of immigrants to seek social assistance in future, further straining the country's resources.

I am sure that Singaporeans are open to welcoming immigrants who can contribute to the economy with their skills and talent.

However, many may not take kindly to the aim of using them merely to up statistics for our population census.

Mr Gilbert Goh
Sydney, Australia

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