SINGAPORE, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on Monday stressed fostering exchanges among different cultures to deepen multiculturalism and strengthen social harmony.

President-elect Tharman Shanmugaratnam (C) attends the presidential inauguration ceremony at Istana, the country's presidential palace, in Singapore, on Sept. 14, 2023. (Photo: Xinhua)

Tharman made the remarks while addressing the Spring Reception held by the Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations and the Singapore Chinese Cultural Center.

Calling for keeping each of the diverse cultures in Singapore alive, he encouraged collaboration and participation in cultures of different ethnic groups to strengthen the multiculturalism of the city-state.

"The deepening of Singapore's multiculturalism will help us enhance the distinctive character of each of our traditions, Singapore Chinese, Singapore Malay, Singapore Indian, and other traditions," Tharman said.

The deepening of multiculturalism will also deliver greater cultural flexibility, enhance Singaporean's identity, and strengthen social harmony in the future, the president said.