Singapore Tamil Youth Conference 2016 Manifesto NUSTLS Singapore Tamil Youth Conference 2016 Manif | Page 74

Issue 12: Preservation of Tamil Cultural Elements
Pre-Panel Discussion
1. Discuss the current state of Tamil language and culture in Singapore, especially among
youths. State both pros and cons observed.
• The Tamil language is rooted quite strongly in Singapore due to the constant outreach by
the Tamil media. This includes Tamil movies and songs from India, as well as the local
Tamil channel Vasantham. Families have played a key role in propagating the Tamil
language over the years.
• Some youths, on the contrary, felt that the usage of Tamil language is declining in
Singapore. When meeting up with family members or friends during occasions, the
amount of Tamil used in conversations has been declining and this is a worrying trend for
some. Some also explained that we live in a Chinese-majority country and with minimal
Tamil friends around us daily, it becomes difficult to speak the Tamil language regularly.
• Many youths felt that they knew only the basics of the Tamil language and had limited
knowledge about the Tamil culture. They prefer simplified versions of literature texts,
thus not being able to savour the beauty of the language. As for culture, they felt that
they do not know the deeper meaning/reason behind every cultural practice e.g. eating
from banana leaf.
• With declining interest in Tamil literature, some youths felt that their source of pride for
the Tamil language will be lost eventually.
• Also, there is a heavy Western influence on the new generations influencing them to
listen to more English songs than Tamil songs. Regional shows e.g. Korean dramas and
KPOP are also on the rise, influencing our youth to subscribe to these entertainment
forms more. In addition, there is an increased depiction of Western culture in Tamil films.
• Some cultural traditions do not suit the Singapore’s context well. For example, in the
coming-of-age ceremony for females, some parents do not allow their children to go to
school for 16 days due to the belief that their daughter should stay protected at home.
2. Do you think there is a link between language and culture?
• Yes, there is a link between culture and language. Tamilians from all over the world can
connect not only due to their ability to speak Tamil, but due to the Tamil culture. Our
Tamil culture gives rise to values which is intertwined with the Tamil language.
• Language and culture go in tandem and must continue doing so for its sustainability e.g.
appreciating cultural values v