C爱NTA (CINTA) : addressing interracial relationship issues among Singaporeans

Abstract

Singapore is well known for its racial harmony and how people of different races get along and are tolerant of each other. As platonic friendships go beyond racial lines, the chances of romantic relationships are higher. However, there is still a stigma towards interracial relationships because people do not have experience with problems unique to interracial relationships. Majority of people perceive interracial relationships to be difficult and are reluctant to get into one themselves. By identifying six key issues that stem from partners being of different races and addressing four of those issues through four individual interactive deliverables, this project aims to educate people on Malay-Muslim practices and ultimately encourage interracial relationships. The four issues that are addressed in the project are religion conversion, religious practices, dietary restrictions and communication with elders. These issues come about because of a lack of understanding of the other party’s culture and religion. Through the dissection of these issues and use of religious and racial elements, the four deliverables aim to either better educate viewers on aspects of a religion or allow viewers to come to the realisation that these issues are real but can be overcome. Religious books, religious law and language are used within these deliverables to address the issues. The key takeaway that the project intends to leave viewers with is the notion that the identified issues can be overcome through compromise within the relationship. This key takeaway is delivered subtly and is a by-product that viewers come to realise themselves upon interacting with the four deliverables.