2008/09: I Can

Fact Sheet (2008/09)

Fast facts on the Speak Good English Movement 2008.

Key Messages

  • Be role models. Speaking good English begins with you. Make it a point to speak Standard English in your daily interactions.
  • Being able to speak English well helps you to advance your career.
  • Being able to speak English well helps you to express yourself and communicate better.

Target Audience

Primary Audience

Singaporeans aged 16 – 40 (working adults, parents, teachers, youth). The target audience is further segmented into 3 groups:

  1. Group A: Those who can speak Standard English.
  2. Group B: Those who cannot speak Standard English and are amenable to taking action. Those who are unaware they are not speaking Standard English.
  3. Group C: Those who cannot speak Standard English and are indifferent to the importance of speaking well.

Secondary Audience

Pre-school, primary and secondary school students.

About the Speak Good English Movement

The Movement was launched in 2000 by then Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong to:

  1. Ensure Singaporeans recognise the importance of speaking Standard English
  2. Encourage Singaporeans to speak Standard English

Starting from 2003, the Movement has kicked off annually with a launch followed by year-long programmes and activities, and has succeeded in raising awareness among Singaporeans that speaking good English matters in their work and personal lives.