What Singaporeans talked most about in 2011

Why did transport, housing and immigration dominate online chatter sent to government?

An increasingly overcrowded public transport system, expensive rents, and large influx of immigrants pushed the three subjects to the fore, says governmental unit REACH.

This was based on over 45,000 feedback inputs directed to the government via the REACH website, social media channels, dialogues and emails.

“In July and August, REACH contributors' feedback revolved around the transport fare hikes, with some contributors calling for a review of the formula guiding the fare hike. In October, during the debate on the President's Address and Addenda to the Address, contributors called for improvements to the public transport infrastructure and services, taking issue with overcrowding and long waiting time for public transport. They also discussed a wide variety of transport topics, such as the reduction of the annual vehicle growth rate and opening of the Circle Line," said REACH in a media release.

"In the first half of 2011, concerns on the affordability and supply of public housing took centre stage. In the second half of 2011, discussion revolved around key housing announcements, such as the review of DBSS, revisions in income ceiling for Built-to-Order (BTO) flats and launch of new BTO flats. While REACH contributors still remain concerned about the affordability of public housing, discussion has become more positive in recent months, with contributors welcoming the increased number of BTO flats built and improved chances for first timers. However, some expressed concern over the smaller size of new flats, opining that it has an impact on their quality of life," it added.

"Contributors remained concerned about the adverse impact of a growing population on public infrastructure and the Singaporean identity, attributing the population increase to the influx of immigrants. They continue to raise a host of issues, such as social cohesion and competition from foreigners for jobs, housing and education. Contributors called for the Government to manage the inflow of foreigners and ensure rigour in selecting new Permanent Residents and citizens. Over the past four months, discussion on 'Population & Immigration' gathered even more momentum, triggered by announcements and reports such as the Prime Minister's National Day Rally (August) on putting Singaporeans first, the Institute of Policy Studies' report on the number of new migrants needed annually (September), and the National Population and Talent Division‟s report on the current population landscape (October)," it read further.