Dialogue participants worried about Mandarin standard, healthcare costs

SINGAPORE: Some Singaporeans have expressed concerns about the standard of Mandarin and its declining use.

They raised their worries at the National Day Mandarin Dialogue on Saturday.

The participants also raised their concerns about rising healthcare costs in the future.

Some 170 people took part in the dialogue.

The dialogue was organised by government feedback agency REACH and local Chinese newspaper Lianhe Zaobao.

Health Minister Gan Kim Yong and Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports Chan Chun Sing were co—chairs.

In their answer to participants’ future concerns, both ministers said their focus is on building a value—based society where qualities such as compassion and thoughtfulness are taught to the young.

Mr Gan said in order to mitigate rising healthcare costs, the society has to focus on staying healthy.

Both ministers agreed that in order for children to learn Mandarin from young, it has to start from the home.

They also said community organisations and clans can also roll out initiatives to increase the awareness and usage of Mandarin in Singapore.

— CNA/xq