This Syrian Moved To Singapore For Love: His Journey From War To HDB | On The Red Dot

Key Concepts

• Belonging: The feeling of being accepted, integrated, and connected within a community.
• Cultural Integration: The process by which immigrants adopt aspects of the host culture while maintaining their own traditions.
• Identity: A sense of self, shaped by cultural background, personal experiences, and social interactions.
• Adaptation: The ability to adjust to new environments, customs, and social norms.
• Citizenship: The legal status of belonging to a particular country, granting rights and responsibilities.
• Multiculturalism: The presence and acceptance of diverse cultures within a society.

Hadi's Journey: From Syria to Singapore

Introduction

The video explores the journey of Hadi Alsadi, a Syrian refugee who fled his war-torn country and eventually found a new home in Singapore. It delves into his experiences adapting to a new culture, building a business, finding love, and seeking citizenship.

Hadi's Background and Arrival in Singapore

• Hadi is a Syrian refugee who left Syria in 2012 due to the civil war that began in 2011.
• He initially moved to Lebanon, then Egypt, and later Malaysia before arriving in Singapore in February 2020.
• He opened Damascus Delights, the first and only Syrian shawarma takeaway shop in Singapore.
• He chose Singapore because of its effective handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Damascus Delights: A Taste of Syria in Singapore

• Hadi emphasizes the authenticity of his shawarma, sticking to traditional Syrian recipes with lamb or chicken.
• He highlights the unique sauces and spices used in Syrian shawarma, distinguishing it from other Middle Eastern variations.
• His brother, Kamal, left his life in Malaysia to help Hadi run the shop in Singapore, showcasing their close bond.

Love and Family: The Reason for Staying

• Hadi's primary reason for moving to Singapore was his wife, Fatin, a Singaporean whom he met while she was a student in Malaysia.
• They married in January 2019 and initially lived in Malaysia before deciding to relocate to Singapore, Fatin's home country.
• Hadi has two children with Fatin: a son and a daughter.

Cultural Adaptation and Integration

• Hadi initially found Singapore's strict rules challenging but eventually adapted to them.
• He initially disliked Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly nasi lemak, but his mother-in-law's cooking gradually changed his palate.
• He acknowledges the importance of learning Malay, his children's mother tongue, to better connect with them and his wife's family.

Language Learning and Cultural Immersion

• Hadi participates in a Malay language and culture lesson through theater, learning about the legend of Sang Nila Utama and the naming of Singapore.
• He memorizes and performs a short skit in Malay for his wife's family during Hari Raya, demonstrating his commitment to cultural integration.
• His mother-in-law gives his performance a "seven upon 10," indicating room for improvement but acknowledging his effort.

Perspectives on Foreigners in Singapore

• Hadi addresses the common sentiment that foreigners steal jobs and homes, arguing that he created his own business and employs Singaporeans.
• He emphasizes his contribution to Singapore's cultural diversity and his positive integration into the community.

Citizenship Aspirations

• Hadi expresses his strong desire to become a Singaporean citizen, citing his family, his progress in the country, and his overall positive experience.
• He applied for citizenship in November 2024 and is awaiting approval.

Conclusion

Hadi's story is one of resilience, adaptation, and the pursuit of belonging. He has successfully integrated into Singaporean society while preserving his Syrian heritage. His journey highlights the complexities of immigration, the importance of cultural understanding, and the potential for newcomers to contribute to their adopted home.