Singapore Kindness Movement

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the case of the Singapore Kindness Movement (SKM) and its goal of promoting "graciousness" in Singapore. It looks at the various roles the SKM fulfills in Singaporean society. It compares the SKM with other civil society groups in neighboring Southeast Asian states like Malaysia. In conclusion, it posits that the case of the SKM shows how the state can still exert subtle influence on its people through the institutions of civil society.

From the Paper:

"In Malaysia, Zainah Anwar shows how organizations such as the Sisters of Islam are challenging the steady erosion of women's legal rights and social freedoms under the country's Muslim government. Feminist scholars argue that such erosions are inconsistent with the Qu'ran's teachings regarding justice and equality (Anwar 231). These civil society feminist groups provide further challenges by re-interpreting the Qu'ran continually to meet the realities of modernity. Compared to these institutions, the SKM is not an area for dissent or challenge. Instead, it serves to help cement the legitimacy of the ruling Singaporean party."

More papers on Singapore Kindness Movement:

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• Analytical Essay # 119805 : "Political and Economic Analysis of Singapore"

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