18-8-2023 (SINGAPORE) A photograph of gender-neutral toilets at the Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre has sparked a heated debate online, with some critics claiming that Singapore is becoming “woke.” The term “woke” originally referred to positive social changes but is now often used negatively by those who oppose such changes.
The discussion began on August 16 when the photo was posted online and quickly gained widespread attention. In response to queries, a representative from Suntec’s building management explained that one set of toilets had been temporarily designated as gender-neutral for Wikimania 2023, an annual conference associated with the Wikimedia Foundation, known for its online resource Wikipedia. The organisers requested this designation for the duration of the event, which started on Wednesday and will run until Saturday.
The inclusive measures implemented for Wikimania 2023, according to the event’s website, include modifying the toilets, creating a scent-free environment for individuals with sensitivities, designating staff members to assist participants, and providing a quiet room for anyone in need.
TODAY visited the convention centre on Wednesday and discovered that the gender-neutral toilets were converted from a female restroom containing 11 cubicles on the third floor.
Gender-neutral toilets have been a contentious issue worldwide, although it has become relatively common in some countries to see individual toilets marked with both male and female symbols that are accessible to anyone. These individual toilets are often separate from other facilities and can be accessed directly from outside.
Online reactions to the photograph were varied. Some users expressed concern about Suntec embracing a more inclusive approach, while others wondered if the gender-neutral toilets were replacing facilities for disabled individuals. The Suntec building management reassured the public that the number of toilets available for disabled persons remained unaffected.
Critics of the gender-neutral toilets called for a boycott of Suntec City, with one Facebook user expressing fears for their children’s future. However, PinkDot SG, an advocacy group for the LGBTQ+ community, clarified that gender-neutral toilets do not increase the risk of sex crimes and emphasized the importance of preventing harassment in all restroom facilities.
When TODAY interviewed passers-by about their opinions on the gender-neutral toilets, responses varied. Some supported the move, considering it inclusive and a positive step, while others expressed concerns about safety and potential criminal activities. PinkDot SG highlighted the importance of gender-neutral toilets in providing a safe space for gender non-conforming individuals and stressed that the availability of both gender-neutral and gender-segregated toilets would offer people the choice of the facility that makes them feel safest and most comfortable.
Advocates for gender-neutral toilets, including PinkDot SG and Mr. Leow Yangfa, executive director of non-profit group Oogachaga, emphasized that these facilities are not just important for the LGBTQ+ community but also benefit other groups such as the elderly, parents with young children, wheelchair users, and people with disabilities.
