Understanding Yet Firm
Firstly, Mr Lee said Singaporeans are becoming more religious, which is "positive". But religious fervour can also lead to separation and mutual exclusion between different groups, he said.
"Two, the internet and social media have made it easier for people both to cause offense and to take offence. When someone puts up something provocative or offensive, it can easily go viral. One thoughtless comment can cause a mass reaction. Instead of a judicious response, it may provoke a self-righteous mob reaction and a public lynching, which is even worse than the original provocation,” said PM Lee.
“Thirdly, as our society develops and becomes more diverse, from time to time religious issues will overlap with social and moral questions. For example, LGBT issues, or dealing with income inequality," he added.
“On such issues, religious groups will have their views – and yet they are not just religious issues, because they are also subjects of public or social policy. Also they are contentious issues, where achieving consensus will be elusive,” Mr Lee said.
"We cannot afford to take purist notions on freedom of expression, or the right to be offensive to others," Mr Lee stated. "So, we will not hesitate to act firmly when necessary because if conflict erupts, it will cause grave damage to our social fabric. Our limits may be stricter than some other societies, but we make no apology for that.”