History
The presence of Buddhism in Singapore is evident since Srivijayan times. In line with ancestral practices, many Chinese inhabitants incorporate elements of Taoism and Confucianism into Buddhism. By virtue thereof, there is a strong trend blending towards Thai Buddhism, which is seen to bear cultural similarities for its ability in encompassing Chinese culture and practices as represented in Taoism. Theravada, the oldest Buddhist school of thought, is seeing a potent growth in Singapore in the past decade.
The Singapore census includes detailed data on religion and ethnicity. Figures on Buddhism in 1980 shown that 27% of Singaporeans are Buddhists, up to 31.2% in 1990 and 42.5% in 2000. It is also noted that there is a significant increase of interest in the Buddhist teachings (dharma), practices, and customs (i.e. chanting, meditation, and offering formality). With a younger and more informed population, Buddhism is seen as the most viable religion in Singapore. However, there was a drop to 33.3% in the 2010 census.
Read more about this topic: Buddhism In Singapore
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