Racial Harmony Day in Singapore

Singapore is a multi-racial and multi-religious society. Therefore, racial and religious harmony is vital for Singapore's social cohesion. This harmony does not come naturally – we need to take the effort to build trust, and acceptance between different races and religions, and protect the common space that we have. As part of National Education efforts, schools commemorate Racial Harmony Day (#RHD) every year on 21st July through activities and discussions to enable students to gain a deeper appreciation of racial harmony, multiculturalism and social cohesion.

First launched in 1997 by the Ministry of Education in schools, the event commemorates the 1964 race riots which took place on 21 July 1964 when Singapore was still part of Malaysia (1963–1965), in which 22 people lost their lives and hundreds were severely injured. Racial Harmony Day has since expanded its reach. Today, grassroots organisations such as the People’s Association and the Community Development Councils are also involved.