But as Singapore cements its position as a financial services hub and top regional tourist destination, the government is redoubling efforts to persuade locals to speak standard English. The government insists mastery of English is imperative to raise living standards as the economy shifts to services from manufacturing.
Some worry, however, that the island's unique patois known as Singlish could be lost, and with it an important cultural glue unifying the multiethnic, multi-religious city-state of 5.1 million people. Full story
Related:
Singapore prods locals to speak better English - The Associated Press
Media: apply yellow stickers, says Singapore minister - ChiefOfficers.net
Singapore prods locals to speak better English - BusinessWeek
Residents of Singapore Urged to Speak Better English - Thaindian News
