I refer to the report, “White Paper to ensure a good quality of life, says DPM Teo” (Feb 5).

Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean is concerned that a shrinking ratio of working adults to retired elderly would result in higher taxes and fewer career opportunities as business activity thins out, resulting in young Singaporeans heading for greener pastures.

I am more concerned over a vicious circle of another kind. If the proportion of citizens falls from 62 per cent to 55 per cent of the population, even as this is augmented every year with citizens not born here, this could wear out social cohesion.

Our citizen base would grow, but infused with the different norms and values of those from other nations.

It takes time to build national identity and social cohesion through shared norms and values, and if social cohesion is eroded, young, capable and mobile Singaporeans may leave because they may see Singapore mainly as a place to earn a living.

But if we invest in building social cohesion and stem the growth of new citizens by stabilising overall population size, we would prevent this vicious circle.

I agree with Mr Teo that some young Singaporeans would inevitably choose to leave because of their economic calculations. However, I also believe that many other young, mobile Singaporeans would stay if they continue to feel that this is their country.