Understanding the role of clan associations in social integration : a study of PRC Chinese undergraduates and postgraduates in Singapore

Abstract

With an increasing number of new citizens from China in Singapore over the years, Chinese clan associations are tasked to resume their role to help these new citizens integrate into Singapore’s multiracial society. This paper seeks to explore the challenges faced by the clan associations from the views of PRC Chinese undergraduates and postgraduates in Singapore. Through in-depth interviews to find out their views and experiences, the study will examine the dialect diversity resulting from familiarity with native languages and stigma arising from being minority in a more dominant majority setting. Motivations of joining clan associations for social capital and identity will be discussed. The study will conclude with how new media provides an alternative mean of social integration for the immigrants.