Revision as of 02:07, 15 July 2007 view sourceSlivester (talk | contribs)Extended confirmed users1,361 edits →Cuisine← Previous edit | Latest revision as of 05:03, 24 December 2024 view source 33Loading (talk | contribs)133 editsm →Land: this is fine, the image representing the mrt has already featured sbs transit | ||
Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
{{Short description|City-state in maritime Southeast Asia}} | |||
<!--Please add details to topic-specific articles, not here. We're trying to keep the main article under 70K in size. Appropriate photos, however, are welcome.--> | |||
{{About|the country|other uses}} | |||
{{Infobox Country or territory | |||
{{Pp-semi-indef}} | |||
|native_name = <span style="line-height:1.5em;">''{{lang|zh|新加坡共和国}}''<br/>{{lang|ms|Republik Singapura}}<br/>{{lang|ta|சிங்கப்பூர் குடியரசு}}</span> | |||
{{Good article}} | |||
|conventional_long_name = <span style="line-height:1.5em;">Republic of Singapore</span> | |||
{{Use Singapore English|date=June 2022}} | |||
|common_name = Singapore | |||
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2024}} | |||
|image_flag = Flag of Singapore.svg | |||
{{Infobox country | |||
|image_coat = Singapore coa.png | |||
| conventional_long_name = Republic of Singapore | |||
|symbol_type = Coat of arms | |||
| |
| common_name = Singapore | ||
| native_name = {{Infobox |subbox=yes |bodystyle=font-size:80%;font-weight:normal; | |||
|national_motto = {{lang|ms|''"Majulah Singapura"''}}{{spaces|2}}<small>(])<br/>"Onward, Singapore"</small> | |||
| rowclass1 = mergedrow |label1=]: |data1={{lang|ms|Republik Singapura}} | |||
|national_anthem = '']'' | |||
| rowclass2 = mergedrow |label2=]:|data2={{lang|zh|新加坡共和国}}<br /><small>''Xīnjiāpō Gònghéguó''</small> | |||
|official_languages = <!-- | |||
| rowclass3 = mergedrow |label3=]: |data3={{lang|ta|சிங்கப்பூர் குடியரசு}}<br /><small>''Ciṅkappūr Kuṭiyaracu''</small> | |||
-->] <small></small><br/><!-- | |||
}} | |||
-->] <small></small><br/><!-- | |||
| image_flag = Flag of Singapore.svg | |||
-->] <small></small><br/><!-- | |||
| image_coat = State Crest of Singapore.png | |||
-->] <small></small><br/><!-- | |||
| symbol_width = | |||
--> | |||
| |
| other_symbol = | ||
| national_motto = {{native name|ms|Majulah Singapura}}<br />"Onward Singapore" | |||
|latd=1|latm=17|latNS=N|longd=103|longm=51|longEW=E | |||
| national_anthem = {{native name|ms|]}}<br />"Onward Singapore"<br /><div style="display:inline-block;margin-top:0.4em;">{{center|]}}</div> | |||
|largest_city = capital | |||
| image_map = Singapore on the globe (Southeast Asia centered) zoom.svg | |||
|government_type = ] | |||
| |
| map_width = 250px | ||
| coordinates = {{Coord|1|17|N|103|50|E|type:city(5,700,000)_region:SG|display=inline,title}} | |||
|leader_name1 = ] | |||
| capital = Singapore (]){{efn|Singapore has no official distinct capital city as it is a ].<ref name="City-state">{{cite encyclopedia |title=Singapore |quote=The city, once a ], so came to dominate the island that the Republic of Singapore essentially became a city-state. |url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Singapore-capital |access-date=29 August 2019 |encyclopedia=Encyclopaedia Britannica |archive-date=28 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220828055010/https://www.britannica.com/place/Singapore-capital |url-status=live}}</ref>}} | |||
|leader_title2 = ] | |||
| largest_settlement = ]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/population/geographic-distribution/visualising-data/geographical-distribution-dashboard|title=Geographical Distribution Dashboard|publisher=Singstat |accessdate=25 November 2024|archive-date=24 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221224122208/https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/population/geographic-distribution/visualising-data/geographical-distribution-dashboard|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|leader_name2 = ] | |||
| largest_settlement_type = ] {{nobold|by population}} | |||
|sovereignty_type = ] | |||
| languages_type = Official languages | |||
|established_event1 = Self-government<br/>{{nowrap|under the ]}} | |||
| languages = {{hlist|]|]|]|]}} | |||
|established_date1 = <br/>] ] <small></small> | |||
| |
| languages2_type = ] | ||
| |
| languages2 = ] | ||
| ethnic_groups = {{ublist |item_style=white-space:nowrap; |{{Tree list}} | |||
|established_event3 = Merger with ] | |||
* 74.3% ] | |||
|established_date3 = ] ] | |||
* 13.5% ] | |||
|established_event4 = {{nowrap|Separation from Malaysia}} | |||
* 9.0% ] | |||
|established_date4 = ] ] | |||
* 3.2% ] | |||
|area_rank = 188th | |||
{{Tree list/end}} | |||
|area_magnitude = 1_E8 | |||
}} | |||
|area = 704.0 | |||
| ethnic_groups_ref = {{efn|In Singapore, proportions of ethnic groups publicly released are based only on the resident population, which comprises Singaporean citizens (SC) and permanent residents (PR).<ref name="census2020">{{cite web |title=Population Trends 2023 |url=https://www.singstat.gov.sg/-/media/files/publications/population/population2023.ashx |website=Singapore Department of Statistics |access-date=6 July 2024 |archive-date=6 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240706140335/https://www.singstat.gov.sg/-/media/files/publications/population/population2023.ashx|url-status=live}}</ref>}} | |||
|areami² = 270 <!--Do not remove per ]--> | |||
| ethnic_groups_year = 2023 | |||
|percent_water = 1.444 | |||
| religion_year = 2020 | |||
|population_estimate = 4,553,009 <!--CIA factbook--> | |||
| religion_ref = {{efn|In Singapore, proportions of religious denominations publicly released are based only on the resident population, which comprises Singaporean citizens (SC) and permanent residents (PR).<ref name="census2020" />}} | |||
|population_estimate_year = July 2007 | |||
| religion = {{ublist|31.1% ]|20.0% ]|18.9% ]|15.6% ]|8.8% ]| 5.0% ]| 0.6% ]}} | |||
|population_estimate_rank = 118th | |||
| demonym = ] | |||
|population_census_year = 2000 | |||
| government_type = Unitary ] | |||
|population_census = 4,117,700 | |||
| leader_title1 = ] | |||
|population_density = 6,369 | |||
| leader_name1 = ] | |||
|population_densitymi² = 16,392 <!--Do not remove per ]--> | |||
| leader_title2 = ] | |||
|population_density_rank = 4th | |||
| |
| leader_name2 = ] | ||
| |
| legislature = ] | ||
| |
| upper_house = | ||
| |
| lower_house = | ||
| sovereignty_type = Independence | |||
|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank = 18th | |||
| sovereignty_note = from the ] and ] | |||
|HDI_year = 2004 | |||
| established_event1 = {{nowrap|]}} | |||
|HDI = {{steady}} 0.916 | |||
| established_date1 = 3 June 1959 | |||
|HDI_rank = 25th | |||
| established_event2 = {{nowrap|]}} | |||
|HDI_category = <font color="#009900">high</font> | |||
| established_date2 = 16 September 1963 | |||
|currency = ] | |||
| established_event3 = ] | |||
|currency_code = SGD | |||
| established_date3 = 9 August 1965 | |||
|time_zone = ] | |||
| established_event4 = | |||
|utc_offset = +8 | |||
| established_date4 = | |||
|time_zone_DST = not observed | |||
| |
| area_km2 = 735.6 | ||
| area_footnote = <ref name="total area of Singapore">{{cite web |title=Environment – Latest Data |date=14 August 2024|publisher=Singapore Department of Statistics |url=https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/society/environment/latest-data|access-date=14 August 2024|archive-date=14 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240814184542/https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/society/environment/latest-data|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
|cctld = ] | |||
| |
| area_rank = 176th | ||
| population_estimate = {{IncreaseNeutral}} 6,040,000{{efn|Singaporean citizen (SC) population is 3,640,000, Permanent resident (PR) population is 544,900, Non-citizen/resident population is 1,860,000.<ref name="Population in Brief 2024">{{cite web |title=Population in Brief 2024 |publisher=Singapore Department of Statistics |url=https://www.population.gov.sg/files/media-centre/publications/Population_in_Brief_2024.pdf|access-date=25 September 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240925140255/https://www.population.gov.sg/files/media-centre/publications/Population_in_Brief_2024.pdf |archive-date=25 September 2024}}</ref>}} | |||
|footnote1 = Singapore is a ]. | |||
| population_estimate_year = 2024 | |||
|footnote2 = 02 from Malaysia. | |||
| population_estimate_rank = 113th | |||
| population_density_km2 = 7,804 | |||
| population_density_sq_mi = auto | |||
| population_density_rank = 3rd | |||
| GDP_PPP = {{increase}} $879,980 billion<ref name="IMFWEO.SG">{{cite web |url=https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/WEO/weo-database/2024/October/weo-report?c=576,&s=NGDPD,PPPGDP,NGDPDPC,PPPPC,&sy=2022&ey=2029&ssm=0&scsm=1&scc=0&ssd=1&ssc=0&sic=0&sort=country&ds=.&br=1 |title=World Economic Outlook Database, October 2024 Edition. (Singapore) |publisher=] |website=www.imf.org |date=October 2024 |access-date=17 November 2024}}</ref> | |||
| GDP_PPP_year = 2024 | |||
| GDP_PPP_rank = 35th | |||
| GDP_PPP_per_capita = {{increase}} $148,186<ref name=IMFWEO.SG /> | |||
| GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank = 2nd | |||
| GDP_nominal = {{increase}} $530,708 billion<ref name=IMFWEO.SG /> | |||
| GDP_nominal_year = 2024 | |||
| GDP_nominal_rank = 28th | |||
| GDP_nominal_per_capita = {{increase}} $89,370<ref name=IMFWEO.SG /> | |||
| GDP_nominal_per_capita_rank = 5th | |||
| Gini = 43.3 <!--number only--> | |||
| Gini_year = 2023 | |||
| Gini_change = steady <!--increase/decrease/steady--> | |||
| Gini_ref = <ref>{{cite web |title=Key Household Income Trends, 2023 |url=https://www.singstat.gov.sg/-/media/files/publications/households/pp-s30.ashx#:~:text=7%20The%20Gini%20coefficient5%20based,fell%20from%200.433%20to%200.371 |website=singstat.gov.sg |publisher=Singapore Department of Statistics |access-date=14 August 2024 |archive-date=13 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240713170530/https://www.singstat.gov.sg/-/media/files/publications/households/pp-s30.ashx#:~:text=7%20The%20Gini%20coefficient5%20based,fell%20from%200.433%20to%200.371 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
| Gini_rank = | |||
| HDI = 0.949 <!--number only--> | |||
| HDI_year = 2022<!-- Please use the year to which the data refers, not the publication year--> | |||
| HDI_change = increase <!--increase/decrease/steady--> | |||
| HDI_ref = <ref name="HDI">{{Cite web |date=13 March 2024 |title=Human Development Report 2023/2024 |url=https://hdr.undp.org/system/files/documents/global-report-document/hdr2023-24reporten.pdf|url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240313164319/https://hdr.undp.org/system/files/documents/global-report-document/hdr2023-24reporten.pdf |archive-date=13 March 2024 |access-date=13 March 2024 |publisher=] |language=en}}</ref> | |||
| HDI_rank = 9th | |||
| currency = ] (S$) | |||
| currency_code = SGD | |||
| time_zone = ] | |||
| utc_offset = +8 | |||
| calling_code = ] | |||
| iso3166code = SG | |||
| cctld = ] | |||
}} | }} | ||
<!-- Note: All citations are listed in the article body, as per ]; indicate with in-line {{citation needed|date=October 2017}} if in doubt. --> | |||
'''Singapore''' ({{lang-ms|Singapura}}; {{lang-zh|新加坡}}, {{lang|zh|''Xīnjiāpō''}}; {{lang-ta|சிங்கப்பூர்}}, {{lang|ta|''Ciŋkappūr''}}), officially the '''Republic of Singapore''' ({{lang-ms|Republik Singapura}}; {{zh-cp|c=新加坡共和国|p=Xīnjiāpō Gònghéguó}}; {{lang-ta|சிங்கப்பூர் குடியரசு}}, {{lang|ta|''Ciŋkappūr Kudiyarasu''}}), is an ] located at the southern tip of the ]. It lies 137 ] (85 ]s) north of the ], south of the ]n state of ] and north of ]'s ]. At 704.0 ] (272 ]), it is considered one of the few ]s in the world. | |||
'''Singapore''',{{efn|{{IPAc-en|audio=En-us-Singapore.ogg|ˈ|s|ɪ|ŋ|(|g|)|ə|p|ɔːr}} {{respell|SING|(g)ə|por}}}} officially the '''Republic of Singapore''', is an ] and ] in ]. The country's territory comprises one ], ], and ]. It is about one ] ({{Convert|137|km|disp=or}}) north of the ], off the southern tip of the ], bordering the ] to the west, the ] to the south along with the ] in ], the ] to the east, and the ] along with the ] in ] to the north. | |||
Singapore's ] dates back at least eight hundred years, having been a maritime ] known as '']'' and subsequently a major constituent part of several successive ] empires. Its contemporary era began in 1819, when ] established Singapore as an ] trading post of the ]. In 1867, Singapore came under the direct control of Britain as part of the ]. During ], Singapore was ] in 1942 and returned to British control as a separate ] following ] in 1945. Singapore gained ] in 1959 and, in 1963, became part of the new federation of ], alongside ], ], and ]. ] led to Singapore's expulsion from the federation two years later; Singapore became an independent ] in 1965. After early years of ] and despite lacking natural resources and a ], the nation rapidly developed to become one of the ]. | |||
The main island was a ] ] sparsely populated by indigenous ]s and ]s when it was colonized by the ] in 1819. The British used the position as a tactical trading outpost along the ].<ref>{{cite web | url= http://www.visitsingapore.com/publish/stbportal/en/home/getting_around/tours_in_singapore/ethnic___cultural/flavours_of_singapore.html | title= Flavours of Singapore | work= Uniquely Singapore | publisher= ] | accessdate= 2007-04-13}}</ref> ] during ], it reverted to ] rule in 1945 and was later part of the merger which established ] in 1963. Two years later, it left the federation and became an independent republic on ] ]. The new republic was admitted to the ] on ] of the same year. | |||
As a highly ], it has one of the ] in the world. It is also identified as a ]. Singapore is the only country in Asia with a AAA ] from ]. It is a major ], ], and ] hub and has consistently been ranked as one of the ] to live in for ]s and ]s. Singapore ranks highly in key social indicators: ], ], ], ], ], and ], with a ] of 88 percent. ] enjoy one of the ], ], ], and ] in the world. It has the ], although there are numerous green and recreational spaces as a result of ]. With a multicultural population and in recognition of the cultural identities of the major ethnic groups within the nation, Singapore has four ]: ], ], ], and ]. English is the ], with exclusive use in numerous ]s. ] is enshrined in the constitution and continues to shape ] in education, housing, and politics. | |||
Since gaining independence, Singapore has seen its ] rise dramatically. Foreign investment and government-led island-wide ] have created a modern ] based on ] and ], featuring ] and ] trade centering around the country's strategic location. In terms of ], Singapore is the 18th wealthiest country in the world.<ref> | |||
{{cite web| url= http://imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/2007/01/data/weorept.aspx?sy=2005&ey=2005&ssd=1&sort=subject&ds=.&br=1&pr1.x=46&pr1.y=10&c=512%2C941%2C914%2C446%2C612%2C666%2C614%2C668%2C311%2C672%2C213%2C946%2C911%2C137%2C193%2C962%2C122%2C674%2C912%2C676%2C313%2C548%2C419%2C556%2C513%2C678%2C316%2C181%2C913%2C682%2C124%2C684%2C339%2C273%2C638%2C921%2C514%2C948%2C218%2C686%2C963%2C688%2C616%2C518%2C223%2C728%2C516%2C558%2C918%2C138%2C748%2C196%2C618%2C278%2C522%2C692%2C622%2C694%2C156%2C142%2C624%2C449%2C626%2C564%2C628%2C283%2C228%2C853%2C924%2C288%2C233%2C293%2C632%2C566%2C636%2C964%2C634%2C182%2C238%2C453%2C662%2C968%2C960%2C922%2C423%2C714%2C935%2C862%2C128%2C716%2C611%2C456%2C321%2C722%2C243%2C965%2C248%2C718%2C469%2C724%2C253%2C576%2C642%2C936%2C643%2C961%2C939%2C813%2C644%2C199%2C819%2C184%2C172%2C524%2C132%2C361%2C646%2C362%2C648%2C364%2C915%2C732%2C134%2C366%2C652%2C734%2C174%2C144%2C328%2C146%2C258%2C463%2C656%2C528%2C654%2C923%2C336%2C738%2C263%2C578%2C268%2C537%2C532%2C742%2C944%2C866%2C176%2C369%2C534%2C744%2C536%2C186%2C429%2C925%2C178%2C746%2C436%2C926%2C136%2C466%2C343%2C112%2C158%2C111%2C439%2C298%2C916%2C927%2C664%2C846%2C826%2C299%2C542%2C582%2C443%2C474%2C917%2C754%2C544%2C698&s=PPPPC&grp=0&a= | |||
| title = List of GDP per capita by country| publisher = International Monetary Fund}} Singapore is 18th after Luxembourg, Ireland, Norway, United States, Iceland, Hong Kong SAR, Switzerland, Denmark, Austria, Canada, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Finland, Belgium, Sweden, Qatar, and Australia.</ref> The geographically small nation has a ] of ]212 billion (]139 billion).<ref name="keystats">{{cite web| url= http://www.singstat.gov.sg/Keystats/annual/indicators.html | title= KeyStats - Annual Statistics | work= Statistics Singapore | publisher= ] | date= 2007-03-12}}</ref> | |||
Singapore is a ] in the ] of ] parliamentary government, and its legal system is based on ]. While the country is '']'' a ] with ], the ] under the ] (PAP) wields widespread control and ]. The PAP has governed the country continuously since full internal ] was achieved in 1959, and holds a ] in ]. One of the five founding members of ], Singapore is also the headquarters of the ] Secretariat, the ] Secretariat, and is the host city of many ]. Singapore is also a member of the ], the ], the ], the ], and the ]. | |||
The ] established the city-state's political system as a ] while the country has official ]' recognition as a ]. The ] has won control of ] in every election since self-government in 1959. | |||
== Name and etymology == | |||
==History== | |||
{{Main|Names of Singapore}} | |||
The ] name of "Singapore" is an ] of the native ] name for the country, {{lang|ms|Singapura}} ({{IPA-ms|siŋapura|pron}}), which was in turn derived from the ] word for 'lion city' ({{langx|sa|सिंहपुर}}; <small>]</small> {{lang|sa-Latn|Siṃhapura}}; ]: {{lang|sa-Brah|𑀲𑀺𑀁𑀳𑀧𑀼𑀭}}; literally "lion city"; {{wikt-lang|sa|सिंह|siṃha|script=Latn}} means 'lion', {{wikt-lang|sa|पुर|pura|script-Latn}} means 'city' or 'fortress').<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bartleby.com/61/46/S0424600.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010411060419/http://www.bartleby.com/61/46/S0424600.html|url-status=dead |archive-date=11 April 2001 |title=Singapore |publisher=Bartleby |access-date=13 May 2020}}</ref> ] was one of the earliest references to Singapore Island, which corresponds to a Chinese account from the third century referred to a place as '']'' ({{zh|c=] ] ]}}), a transcription of the ] name for 'island at the end of ]'.<ref name="utexas">{{cite web |title=Singapore: History, Singapore 1994 |url=http://inic.utexas.edu/asnic/countries/singapore/Singapore-History.html |publisher=Asian Studies @ University of Texas at Austin |access-date=13 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070323095958/http://inic.utexas.edu/asnic/countries/Singapore/Singapore-History.html |archive-date=23 March 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Early references to the name ] (or Tumasik) are found in the ], a ] ] written in 1365, and a ]ese source from the same time period. The name possibly means ''Sea Town'', being derived from the ] {{lang|ms|tasek}}, meaning 'sea' or 'lake'.<ref name="toponym">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DTOJAAAAQBAJ&pg=PA381 |title=Singapore Street Names: A Study of Toponymics |author1=Victor R Savage |author2=Brenda Yeoh |publisher=Marshall Cavendish |date=15 June 2013 |isbn=9789814484749 |page=381 |access-date=28 July 2017 |archive-date=12 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230412012131/https://books.google.com/books?id=DTOJAAAAQBAJ&pg=PA381 |url-status=live}}</ref> The ] traveller ] visited a place around 1330 named ''Danmaxi'' ({{zh|c=淡馬錫|p= Dànmǎxí|w=Tan Ma Hsi}}) or ''Tam ma siak'', depending on pronunciation; this may be a transcription of ], alternatively, it may be a combination of the ] {{lang|ms|Tanah}} meaning 'land' and ] {{lang|zh-Latn|xi}} meaning 'tin', which was traded on the island.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=bMt3BgAAQBAJ&pg=PA173 |title=Singapore and the Silk Road of the Sea, 1300–1800 |author1-link=John N. Miksic |author=John N. Miksic |publisher=NUS Press |date=15 November 2013 |isbn=978-9971695743 |pages=171–182 |access-date=19 June 2020 |archive-date=5 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240305143007/https://books.google.com/books?id=bMt3BgAAQBAJ&pg=PA173#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="toponym" /> | |||
Variations of the name {{lang|sa-Latn|Siṃhapura}} were used for a number of cities throughout the region prior to the establishment of the ]. In ], lions were associated with power and protection, which may explain the attraction of such a name.{{sfn|Miksic|2013|pp=}}<ref>{{cite news |url=https://mothership.sg/2016/12/5-other-places-in-asia-which-are-also-called-singapura/ |title=5 other places in Asia which are also called Singapura |author=Joshua Lee |work=Mothership |date=6 December 2016 |access-date=13 May 2020 |archive-date=6 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230406022412/https://mothership.sg/2016/12/5-other-places-in-asia-which-are-also-called-singapura/ |url-status=live}}</ref> The name ''Singapura'' supplanted ] sometime before the 15th century, after the establishment of the ] on the island by a fleeing Sumatran '']'' (prince) from ]. However, the precise time and reason for the name change is unknown. The semi-historical ] state that ] was christened ''Singapura'' by ], a 13th-century Sumatran '']'' from ]. ] state that ] encountered a strange beast on the island that he took to be a lion. Seeing this as an omen, he established the town of ''Singapura'' where he encountered the beast.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://archive.org/details/sejarah-melayu-cheah-boon-kheng/page/n1/mode/2up?q= |title=Sejarah Melayu The Malay Annals MS RAFFLES No. 18 Edisi Rumi Baru/New Romanised Edition |date=1998 |publisher=Academic Art & Printing Services Sdn. Bhd. |isbn=967-9948-13-7 |editor-last1=Kheng |editor-first1=Cheah Boon |editor-last2=Ismail |editor-first2=Abdul Rahman Haji}}</ref>{{Rp|37, 88–92}}<ref>{{cite journal |last=Brown |first=C.C. |date=October 1952 |title=The Malay Annals translated from Raffles MS 18 |url=https://archive.org/details/malay-annals-C.-C.-Brown/page/n1/mode/2up?q= |journal=Journal of the Malayan Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society |volume=25 |issue=2&3 |pages=1–276}}</ref>{{Rp|30–31}} The second hypothesis, drawn from ], postulates that this mythical story is based on the real life ] of ]. ] declared independence from ] and mounted a Lion Throne. After then being driven into exile by the ], he usurped control over ]. He may have rechristened the area as ''Singapura'', recalling the throne he had been driven from.<ref name="turnbull">{{cite book |last=Turnbull |first=C.M. |author-link=C. M. Turnbull |title=A History of Modern Singapore, 1819–2005 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Y9yvBgAAQBAJ&pg=PA22 |publisher=NUS Press |year=2009 |pages=21–22 |isbn=978-9971-69-430-2 |access-date=13 January 2017 |archive-date=5 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240305143058/https://books.google.com/books?id=Y9yvBgAAQBAJ&pg=PA22#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
{{main|History of Singapore}} | |||
===Origin of name=== | |||
The name ''Singapura'' is derived from the ] words {{lang|ms|''singa''}} (lion) and {{lang|ms|''pura''}} (city), which in turn is from the ] {{lang|sa|सिंह}} {{IAST|''siṃha''}} and {{lang|sa|}} {{IAST|''pura''}}.<ref> {{cite web | url = http://www.bartleby.com/61/46/S0424600.html|title = Singapore| publisher = bartleby.com|accessdate = 2006-04-14 }}</ref> According to the ], this name was given by a 14th century ]n ] ] named ], who, on alighting the island after a thunderstorm, renamed it ''Singapura'' after spotting an auspicious beast identified as a ].<ref> {{cite web| title = Early History | url = http://www.sg/explore/history.htm | publisher = Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts, Singapore | accessdate = 2006-04-14 }}</ref> | |||
Under ], Singapore was renamed {{Nihongo|''Syonan-to''|] ]|Shōnan|lead=yes}}, meaning 'light of the south'.<ref>{{cite book |last=Abshire |first=Jean |title=The History of Singapore |year=2011 |publisher=ABC-CLIO |page=104 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AHF59oExO80C&pg=PA104 |isbn=978-0-313-37743-3 |access-date=21 November 2020 |archive-date=11 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240211000704/https://books.google.com/books?id=AHF59oExO80C&pg=PA104 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Blackburn |first1=Kevin |first2=Karl |last2=Hack |title=Did Singapore Have to Fall?: Churchill and the Impregnable Fortress |year=2004 |publisher=] |isbn=978-0-203-40440-9 |page=132 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TUC2qveu-b8C&pg=PA132 |access-date=21 November 2020 |archive-date=11 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240211000739/https://books.google.com/books?id=TUC2qveu-b8C&pg=PA132 |url-status=live}}</ref> Singapore is sometimes referred to by the nickname the "Garden City", in reference to its parks and tree-lined streets.<ref>{{cite encyclopedia |last1=Goetz |first1=Philip W. |title=Singapore <!-- this is a guess fixing a bollixed ref --> |quote="Singapore, known variously as the 'Lion City,' or 'Garden City,' the latter for its many parks and tree-lined streets |encyclopedia=The New Encyclopædia Britannica |location=Chicago |edition=15th |date=1991 |page=832 |isbn=978-0-85229-529-8 |bibcode=1991neb..book.....G}}</ref> Another informal name, the "]", was adopted after an article in the '']'' of 4 August 1998 said that ]n President ] referred to Singapore as a red dot on a map.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Glennie |first1=Charlotte |last2=Ang |first2=Mavis |last3=Rhys |first3=Gillian |last4=Aul |first4=Vidhu |last5=Walton |first5=Nicholas |title=50 reasons Singapore is the best city in the world |url=http://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/singapore-50-reasons |quote="The Lion City. The Garden City. The Asian Tiger. The 'Fine' City. All venerable nicknames, and the longtime favourite is the 'Little Red Dot'" |publisher=] |date=6 August 2015 |access-date=13 May 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807045157/http://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/singapore-50-reasons |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=A little red dot in a sea of green |url=https://www.economist.com/news/special-report/21657610-sense-vulnerability-has-made-singapore-what-it-today-can-it-now-relax-bit |newspaper=] |date=16 July 2015 |quote="..with a characteristic mixture of pride and paranoia, Singapore adopted 'little red dot' as a motto" |location=London |access-date=16 October 2017 |archive-date=16 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171016175357/https://www.economist.com/news/special-report/21657610-sense-vulnerability-has-made-singapore-what-it-today-can-it-now-relax-bit |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Editorial: The mighty red dot |url=http://www.thejakartapost.com/academia/2017/09/08/editorial-the-mighty-red-dot.html |work=] |date=8 September 2017 |access-date=13 May 2020 |archive-date=28 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200128071756/https://www.thejakartapost.com/academia/2017/09/08/editorial-the-mighty-red-dot.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Habibie truly admired the 'Little Red Dot' |newspaper=] |date=20 September 2006}}.</ref> | |||
===First settlement=== | |||
== History == | |||
The first records of settlement in Singapore are from the second century AD.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://countrystudies.us/singapore/3.htm|title = Country Studies| publisher = Library of Congress|accessdate = 2007-05-01 }}</ref> The island was an outpost of the ]n ] empire and originally bore the ] name '']'' ('sea town'). Temasek (Tumasek) rapidly became a significant trading city, but declined in the late 14th century. There are few remnants of old Temasek in Singapore, but ] have uncovered evidence of the civilization and other settlements. Between the 16th and early 19th centuries, Singapore was part of the ]. During the Malay-] wars in 1613, she was set ablaze by Portuguese troops.<ref name="uslcPrecolonial"> {{cite web | title = Singapore - Precolonial Era | url = http://countrystudies.us/singapore/3.htm | publisher = U.S. Library of Congress | accessdate = 2006-06-18 }} </ref> The Portuguese subsequently held control in the 16th century and the Dutch in the 17th, but throughout most of this time the island's population consisted mainly of ]. | |||
{{Main|History of Singapore}} | |||
<!--] At Night ...]]--> | |||
=== Ancient Singapore === | |||
] by ], erected at the spot where he first landed at Singapore. He is recognized as the founder of modern Singapore.]] | |||
{{further|Early history of Singapore}} | |||
In 1299, according to the '']'', the ] was founded on the island by ].<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=J9JAAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA43 |title=Malay Annals |page=43 |author=<!--unknown; old historical document-->|translator-last=Leyden|translator-first=John |date=1821}}</ref> Although the historicity of the accounts as given in the ''Malay Annals'' is the subject of academic debates,{{sfn|Miksic|2013|p=}} it is nevertheless known from various documents that Singapore in the 14th century, then known as ], was a trading port under the influence of both the ] Empire and the ] kingdoms,{{sfn|Miksic|2013|pp=}} and was a part of the ].<ref name=Dixon>{{cite book |last1=Dixon |first1=Robert M.W. |last2=Alexandra |first2=Y. |year=2004 |title=Adjective Classes: A Cross-linguistic Typology |url=https://archive.org/details/adjectiveclasses00dixo_002|url-access=limited |page= |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=0-19-920346-6}}</ref><ref name=Matisoff1990>{{Citation |last=Matisoff |first=James|author-link=James Matisoff |title=On Megalocomparison |journal=Language |volume=66 |issue=1 |pages=106–120 |year=1990 |doi=10.2307/415281 |jstor=415281}}</ref><ref name=Enfield>{{Citation |last=Enfield |first=N.J. |title=Areal Linguistics and Mainland Southeast Asia |journal=Annual Review of Anthropology |volume=34 |pages=181–206 |year=2005 |doi=10.1146/annurev.anthro.34.081804.120406 |url=http://pubman.mpdl.mpg.de/pubman/item/escidoc:57458/component/escidoc:57459/Enfield_2005_areal.pdf |hdl=11858/00-001M-0000-0013-167B-C|hdl-access=free|access-date=5 August 2018|archive-date=16 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170816071246/http://pubman.mpdl.mpg.de/pubman/item/escidoc:57458/component/escidoc:57459/Enfield_2005_areal.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="academia edu">{{cite journal |url=https://www.academia.edu/2635407 |title=As in Heaven, So on Earth: The Politics of Visnu Siva and Harihara Images in Preangkorian Khmer Civilisation |journal=Journal of Southeast Asian Studies |volume=34 |issue=1 |pages=21–39 |publisher=Academia|access-date=23 December 2015 |last1=Lavy |first1=Paul A. |year=2003 |doi=10.1017/S002246340300002X |s2cid=154819912|archive-date=12 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210812222402/https://www.academia.edu/2635407|url-status=live |issn=0022-4634}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.anthropology.hawaii.edu/people/faculty/stark/pdfs/AP1999%20article.pdf |title=Results of the 1995–1996 Archaeological Field Investigations at Angkor Borei, Cambodia |publisher=University of Hawai'i-Manoa|access-date=5 July 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923172419/http://www.anthropology.hawaii.edu/People/Faculty/Stark/pdfs/AP1999%20article.pdf|archive-date=23 September 2015}}</ref> These Indianised kingdoms were characterised by surprising resilience, political integrity and administrative stability.<ref>Pierre-Yves Manguin, "From Funan to Sriwijaya: Cultural continuities and discontinuities in the Early Historical maritime states of Southeast Asia", in ''25 tahun kerjasama Pusat Penelitian Arkeologi dan Ecole française d'Extrême-Orient,'' Jakarta, Pusat Penelitian Arkeologi / EFEO, 2002, p. 59–82.</ref> Historical sources also indicate that around the end of the 14th century, its ruler ] was attacked by either the ] or the Siamese, forcing him to move to ] where he founded the ].{{sfn|Miksic|2013|pp=}} Archaeological evidence suggests that the main settlement on ] was abandoned around this time, although a small trading settlement continued in Singapore for some time afterwards.<ref name="turnbull" /> In 1613, ] raiders burned down the settlement, and the island faded into obscurity for the next two centuries.<ref name="Borschbergp157-158">{{cite book |last=Borschberg |first=P. |title=The Singapore and Melaka Straits. Violence, Security and Diplomacy in the 17th century |publisher=NUS Press |year=2010 |location=Singapore |pages=157–158 |isbn=978-9971-69-464-7}}</ref> By then, Singapore was nominally part of the ].<ref name="country studies">{{cite web |url=http://countrystudies.us/singapore/3.htm |title=Country Studies: Singapore: History |publisher=U.S. Library of Congress|access-date=1 May 2007|archive-date=23 September 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060923070753/http://countrystudies.us/singapore/3.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> The wider maritime region and much trade was under Dutch control for the following period after the 1641 ].<ref name=uslcFοunding>{{cite book|editor-last=Leitch Lepoer|editor-first=Barbara |title=Singapore: A Country Study |url=http://countrystudies.us/singapore/|access-date=18 February 2010 |series=Country Studies |year=1989 |publisher=GPO for tus/singapore/4.htm|archive-date=15 October 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091015211019/http://countrystudies.us/singapore/|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
=== British colonisation === | |||
On ] ], Sir ] landed on the main island. Sighting its potential, Raffles signed a treaty with ] on behalf of the ] to develop Singapore as a trading post and settlement, marking the start of the island's modern era. Raffles's deputy, ], oversaw a period of growth and ethnic migration. The British India office governed the island in 1858, but Singapore was made a ], answerable directly to the Crown, in 1867. By 1869, the island boasted a sizeable community of 100,000.<ref> {{cite web| title = Founding of Modern Singapore | url = http://www.sg/explore/history_founding.htm | publisher = Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts, Singapore | accessdate = 2006-04-14 }} </ref> | |||
{{Main|Founding of modern Singapore|Singapore in the Straits Settlements}} | |||
] to Sultan Muhammad Kanzul Alam, the 21st ], dated 28 November 1819. In the first line, Farquhar mentions that Sultan Hussein Shah and Temenggong Abdul Rahman allowed the ] to establish a factory in Singapore on 6 February 1819.<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Nicholl |first1=Robert |title=From Buckfast to Borneo: Essays Presented to Father Robert Nicholl on the 85th Anniversary of His Birth, 27 March 1995 |last2=King |first2=Victor T. |last3=Horton |first3=A. V. H. |publisher=University of Hull |year=1995 |isbn=978-0-85958-836-2 |location=Hull, England |pages=219 |chapter=Malay sources for the history of the Sultanate of Brunei in the early nineteenth century: some letters from the reign of Sultan Muhammad Kanzul Alam (Annabel Teh Gallop) |oclc=35366675 |access-date=24 April 2022 |chapter-url=https://www.academia.edu/11507827 |archive-date=11 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240211000715/https://www.academia.edu/11507827 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |url=http://www.bl.uk/manuscripts/Viewer.aspx?ref=add_ms_12398_f019r |title=Farquhar Letterbook (Add MS 12398) |year=1842 |pages=39–40 |language=ms |chapter=Ini kupia surat kepada Raja Barunai |trans-chapter=This is a copy of the letter to the Raja of Brunei |access-date=24 April 2022 |archive-date=24 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220424173837/http://www.bl.uk/manuscripts/Viewer.aspx?ref=add_ms_12398_f019r |url-status=live}}</ref>]] | |||
The British governor ] arrived in Singapore on 28 January 1819 and soon recognised the island as a natural choice for the new port.<ref name="YongRao1995">{{cite book |author1=Mun Cheong Yong |author2=V. V. Bhanoji Rao |title=Singapore-India Relations: A Primer |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ZdZo5Ui8oS4C&pg=PA3 |year=1995 |publisher=NUS Press |isbn=978-9971-69-195-0 |page=3|access-date=14 September 2019|archive-date=11 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240211000734/https://books.google.com/books?id=ZdZo5Ui8oS4C&pg=PA3#v=onepage&q&f=false|url-status=live}}</ref> The island was then nominally ruled by ], the ], who was controlled by the ] and the ].<ref name="Trocki2009">{{cite book |last=Trocki |first=Carl A. |title=Singapore: Wealth, Power and the Culture of Control |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vA-CAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA73 |year=2009 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-134-50243-1 |page=73|access-date=14 September 2019|archive-date=11 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240211000706/https://books.google.com/books?id=vA-CAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA73#v=onepage&q&f=false|url-status=live}}</ref> However, the ] was weakened by factional division: ], the ] to Tengku Abdul Rahman, as well as his officials, were loyal to the Sultan's elder brother ], who was living in ] in ], ]. With the Temenggong's help, Raffles managed to smuggle Tengku Long back into Singapore. Raffles offered to recognise Tengku Long as the rightful Sultan of Johor, under the title of ], as well as provide him with a yearly payment of $5000 and another $3000 to the Temenggong; in return, Sultan Hussein would grant the British the right to establish a trading post on Singapore.<ref name="uslcFounding">{{cite web |title=Singapore – Founding and Early Years |url=http://countrystudies.us/singapore/4.htm |publisher=]|access-date=18 July 2006|archive-date=17 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221117143728/http://countrystudies.us/singapore/4.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> The ] was signed on 6 February 1819.<ref>{{cite web |title=1819 – The February Documents |publisher=] |date=7 February 1997|access-date=18 July 2006 |last=Ng |first=Jenny |url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/about_us/history/overview/the_early_years/v01n02b_history.html|archive-date=17 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170717065310/https://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/about_us/history/overview/the_early_years/v01n02b_history.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Milestones in Singapore's Legal History |publisher=]|access-date=18 July 2006 |url=http://app.supremecourt.gov.sg/default.aspx?pgID=39|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927183512/http://app.supremecourt.gov.sg/default.aspx?pgID=39|archive-date=27 September 2007}}</ref> | |||
] trade was at ] for 150 years. ] hill (centre) was home to its ancient and early colonial rulers.]] | |||
===World War II=== | |||
In 1824, a further treaty with the Sultan led to the entire island becoming a part of the ].<ref name="Founding of Modern Singapore">{{cite web |title=Founding of Modern Singapore |url=http://app.www.sg/who/32/Founding-of-Modern-Singapore.aspx |publisher=]|access-date=13 April 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090508135636/http://app.www.sg/who/32/Founding-of-Modern-Singapore.aspx|archive-date=8 May 2009}}</ref> In 1826, Singapore became part of the ], then under the jurisdiction of ]. Singapore became the regional capital in 1836.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.archiveeditions.co.uk/titledetails.asp?tid=17 |title=East & South-East Asia Titles: Straits Settlements Annual Reports (Singapore, Penang, Malacca, Labuan) 1855–1941 |publisher=]|access-date=31 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120609014003/http://www.archiveeditions.co.uk/titledetails.asp?tid=17|archive-date=9 June 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> Prior to Raffles' arrival, there were only about a thousand people living on the island, mostly indigenous ] along with a handful of ].<ref name="The Malays">{{cite web |title=The Malays |url=http://yesterday.sg/discover-more/communities-festivals/communities/the-malays/ |publisher=National Heritage Board 2011|access-date=28 July 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110223000344/http://yesterday.sg/discover-more/communities-festivals/communities/the-malays/|archive-date=23 February 2011}}</ref> By 1860 the population had swelled to over 80,000, more than half being ].<ref name="Founding of Modern Singapore" /> Many of these early immigrants came to work on the pepper and ] plantations.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://archive.org/stream/cu31924023134368#page/n227/mode/2up|editor1-last=Wright|editor1-first=Arnold|editor2-last=Cartwright|editor2-first=H.A. |last=Sanderson |first=Reginald |date=1907 |title=Twentieth century impressions of British Malaya: its history, people, commerce, industries, and resources |pages=220–221}}</ref> In 1867, the Straits Settlements were separated from ], coming under the direct control of ].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/372a4e72-9f1b-4eb4-9ec6-58cad02000f0 |title=Singapore attains crown colony status – Singapore History |website=eresources.nlb.gov.sg|access-date=3 April 2021|archive-date=14 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210414171544/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/372a4e72-9f1b-4eb4-9ec6-58cad02000f0|url-status=live}}</ref> Later, in the 1890s, when the rubber industry became established in ] and Singapore,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/a8ceea4c-1c8b-4c9a-885c-b85038b39e4c |title=First Rubber Trees are Planted in Singapore – 1877 |website=History SG |publisher=National Library Board Singapore|access-date=8 February 2017|archive-date=14 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180614122517/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/a8ceea4c-1c8b-4c9a-885c-b85038b39e4c|url-status=live}}</ref> the island became a global centre for rubber sorting and export.<ref name="Founding of Modern Singapore" /> | |||
During ], the ] invaded ], culminating in the ]. The ill-prepared British were defeated in six days, and surrendered the supposedly impregnable "Bastion of the Empire" to General ] on ] ]. The Japanese renamed Singapore ''Shōnantō'' (昭南島), from Japanese "] no jidai ni eta minami no shima" ("<b>昭</b>和の時代に得た<b>南</b>の<b>島</b>"), or "southern island obtained in the age of Shōwa", and ] until the British repossessed the island on ] ], a month after ].<ref> {{cite web | author = Ron Taylor | title = Fall of Malaya and Singapore | url = http://www.britain-at-war.org.uk/WW2/Malaya_and_Singapore/index.htm | accessdate = 2007-07-10 }} </ref> | |||
] | |||
Singapore was not greatly affected by the ] (1914–18), as the conflict did not spread to ]. The only significant event during the war was the ] by ] ] from British India, who were garrisoned in Singapore.<ref name=Brill1>{{cite book |title=The Indian Army in the Two World Wars |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=cON5DwAAQBAJ&pg=PA17 |date=14 October 2011 |publisher=] |isbn=978-90-04-21145-2 |pages=17–18|access-date=14 September 2019|archive-date=11 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240211000843/https://books.google.com/books?id=cON5DwAAQBAJ&pg=PA17#v=onepage&q&f=false|url-status=live}}</ref> After hearing rumours that they were to be sent to fight the ], a Muslim state, the soldiers rebelled, killing their officers and several British civilians before the mutiny was suppressed by non-Muslim troops arriving from ] and ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_570_2005-01-24.html |title=1915 Singapore Mutiny |website=National Library Board |publisher=National Library Board Singapore|access-date=26 August 2019|archive-date=25 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225200105/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_570_2005-01-24.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
The name Shōnantō was, at the time, romanized as "Syonan-to" or "Syonan", and this is still commonly used today. | |||
After ], the British built the large ] as part of the defensive ].<ref name="Stille2016">{{cite book |last=Stille |first=Mark |title=Malaya and Singapore 1941–42: The fall of Britain's empire in the East |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=gHe9DAAAQBAJ&pg=PA5 |year=2016 |publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing |isbn=978-1-4728-1124-0 |pages=5–6|access-date=14 September 2019|archive-date=11 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240211000710/https://books.google.com/books?id=gHe9DAAAQBAJ&pg=PA5#v=onepage&q&f=false|url-status=live}}</ref> Originally announced in 1921, the construction of the base proceeded at a slow pace until the ] in 1931. Costing $60 million and not fully completed in 1938, it was nonetheless the largest ] in the world, the third-largest ], and had enough fuel tanks to support the entire British navy for six months.<ref name="Stille2016" /><ref name="Tan2008">{{cite book |last=Tan |first=Kevin |title=Marshall of Singapore: A Biography |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BH88kpvyrdYC&pg=PA90 |year=2008 |publisher=Institute of Southeast Asian Studies |isbn=978-981-230-878-8 |pages=90–}}</ref><ref name="Hobbs2017">{{cite book |last=Hobbs |first=David |title=The British Pacific Fleet: The Royal Navy's Most Powerful Strike Force |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FVEgDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA5 |year=2017 |publisher=Naval Institute Press |isbn=978-1-61251-917-3 |page=5 |access-date=14 September 2019 |archive-date=11 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240211001300/https://books.google.com/books?id=FVEgDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA5#v=onepage&q&f=false |url-status=live}}</ref> The base was defended by heavy {{convert|15|in|mm|adj=on}} naval guns stationed at ], ] and Labrador, as well as a ] airfield at ]. ] touted it as the "] of the East", and military discussions often referred to the base as simply "]". However, the ] was stationed in Europe, and the British could not afford to build a second fleet to protect their interests in Asia. The plan was for the Home Fleet to sail quickly to Singapore in the event of an emergency. As a consequence, after ] broke out in 1939, the fleet was fully occupied with defending Britain, leaving Singapore vulnerable to ].<ref name="LambTarling2001">{{cite book |last1=Lamb |first1=Margaret |last2=Tarling |first2=Nicholas |title=From Versailles to Pearl Harbor: The Origins of the Second World War in Europe and Asia |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4izcCwAAQBAJ&pg=PA39 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200818180438/https://books.google.com/books?id=4izcCwAAQBAJ&pg=PA39 |url-status=dead |archive-date=18 August 2020 |date=2001 |publisher=Macmillan International Higher Education |isbn=978-1-4039-3772-8 |page=39}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BH88kpvyrdYC&pg=PA90 |title=Marshall of Singapore: A Biography |last=Tan |first=Kevin |isbn=978-981-230-878-8 |year=2008 |publisher=Institute of Southeast Asian Studies}}</ref> | |||
===Independence=== | |||
=== Japanese occupation === | |||
Singapore became a self-governing state in 1959 with ] its first '']'' and ] its first ]. Following the ], Singapore joined ], along with ] and ], to form the ] on ] ], but was expelled two years later after ] between the state's PAP government and the federal ] government. Singapore officially gained sovereignty on ] ].<ref> {{cite web| title = Road to Independence | url = http://countrystudies.us/singapore/10.htm|publisher = U.S. Library of Congress|accessdate = 2006-04-14 }} </ref> ] was sworn in as the first ] and ] remained prime minister. | |||
{{Main|Japanese occupation of Singapore}} | |||
]. ]'s control tower near the city has been conserved.]] | |||
During the ], the Japanese ] culminated in the ]. When the British force of 60,000 troops surrendered on 15 February 1942, British prime minister Winston Churchill called the defeat "the worst disaster and largest capitulation in British history".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/february/15/newsid_3529000/3529447.stm |title=On This Day – 15 February 1942: Singapore forced to surrender |access-date=1 May 2007 |publisher=BBC News |date=15 February 1942 |archive-date=19 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190519174009/http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/february/15/newsid_3529000/3529447.stm |url-status=live}}</ref> British and Empire losses during the fighting for Singapore were heavy, with a total of nearly 85,000 personnel captured.{{sfn|Wigmore|1957|p=382}} About 5,000 were killed or wounded,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.historynet.com/battle-of-singapore |title=Battle of Singapore |publisher=World History Group |access-date=8 May 2015 |archive-date=12 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150512181020/http://www.historynet.com/battle-of-singapore |url-status=live}}</ref> of which ] made up the majority.{{sfn|Legg|1965|p=248}}<ref>{{cite news |title=1,000 Aussie victims of WWII join suit against Japan |first=Teresa |last=Ooi |newspaper=] |location=Singapore |date=17 January 1995}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=South West Pacific War: Australia's Fine Record |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19460912-1.2.47?ST=1&AT=search&k=battle%20of%20singapore,%20world%20war%20ii,%20australians&QT=battle,of,singapore,world,war,ii,australians&oref=article |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=12 September 1946 |access-date=22 October 2019 |archive-date=20 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191220093327/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19460912-1.2.47?ST=1&AT=search&k=battle%20of%20singapore,%20world%20war%20ii,%20australians&QT=battle,of,singapore,world,war,ii,australians&oref=article |url-status=live}}</ref> Japanese casualties during the fighting in Singapore amounted to 1,714 killed and 3,378 wounded.{{sfn|Wigmore|1957|p=382}}{{efn|The breakdown of British Empire losses included 38,496 United Kingdom, 18,490 Australian, 67,340 Indian and 14,382 local volunteer troops. Total Australian casualties included 1,789 killed and 1,306 wounded.{{sfn|Wigmore|1957|p=382}}}} The occupation was to become a major turning point in the histories of several nations, including those of ], ], and Singapore. Japanese newspapers triumphantly declared the victory as deciding the general situation of the war.{{sfn|Toland|1970|p=277}}<ref>{{cite news |title=Japanese Occupation newspaper in library portal |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/japanese-occupation-newspaper-in-library-portal |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |first=Melody |last=Zaccheus |date=21 January 2017 |access-date=22 October 2019 |archive-date=19 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220819024819/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/japanese-occupation-newspaper-in-library-portal |url-status=live}}</ref> Between 5,000 and 25,000 ethnic Chinese people were killed in the subsequent ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+sg0027) |title=Singapore, Shonan: Light of the South |last=Leitch Lepoer |first=Barbara |year=1989 |website=] |publisher=] |access-date=29 January 2011 |location=Washington, DC |archive-date=29 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170629230435/http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+sg0027) |url-status=live}}</ref> British forces had ] in 1945/1946; however, the war ended before these operations could be carried out.{{sfn|Bose|2010|pp=18–20}}<ref name="auto1">{{cite news |title=The real Japanese surrender |url=http://staff.science.nus.edu.sg/~sivasothi/blog/pdf/jap_surrender-st04sep2005.pdf |archive-url= https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20080119210334/http://staff.science.nus.edu.sg/~sivasothi/blog/pdf/jap_surrender-st04sep2005.pdf |url-status= dead |archive-date=19 January 2008 |newspaper=The Sunday Times |location=Singapore |date=4 September 2005 |access-date=22 October 2019}}</ref> | |||
=== Post-war period === | |||
] of Singapore at dusk]] | |||
{{Main|Colony of Singapore}} | |||
The fledgling nation had to be self-sufficient, and faced problems like mass ], housing shortages, and a dearth of land and natural resources. During Lee Kuan Yew's term as ] from 1959 to 1990, his administration curbed widespread ], raised the ], and implemented a large-scale public housing programme. The country's ] ] was developed, the threat of racial tension was curbed, and an independent national defence system, centering around compulsory male military service, was created. | |||
] | |||
After the ] to the ] on 15 August 1945, Singapore fell into a brief state of violence and disorder; looting and revenge-killing were widespread. British, Australian, and Indian troops led by Lord ] ] to receive the formal surrender of Japanese forces in the region from General ] on behalf of General ] on 12 September 1945.{{sfn|Bose|2010|pp=18–20}}<ref name="auto1" /> Meanwhile, ] was tried by a US military commission for war crimes, but not for crimes committed by his troops in Malaya or Singapore. He was convicted and hanged in the ] on 23 February 1946.{{sfn|Smith|2006|p=556–557}}<ref>{{cite news |title=Yamashita Hanged |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/maltribune19460223-1.2.12 |work=Malaya Tribune |location=Singapore |date=23 February 1946 |access-date=22 October 2019 |archive-date=22 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191022150250/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/maltribune19460223-1.2.12 |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
Much of the infrastructure in Singapore had been destroyed during the war, including those needed to supply utilities. A shortage of food led to malnutrition, disease, and rampant crime and violence. A series of strikes in 1947 caused massive stoppages in public transport and other services. However, by late 1947 the economy began to recover, facilitated by a growing international demand for tin and rubber.<ref name="uslcAftermathOfWar">{{cite web |title=Singapore – Aftermath of War |url=http://countrystudies.us/singapore/9.htm |publisher=U.S. Library of Congress |access-date=16 May 2020 |archive-date=14 May 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110514010408/http://countrystudies.us/singapore/9.htm |url-status=live}}</ref> The failure of Britain to successfully defend its colony against the Japanese changed its image in the eyes of Singaporeans. ] ended on 1 April 1946, and Singapore became a separate ].<ref name="uslcAftermathOfWar" /> In July 1947, separate Executive and Legislative Councils were established and the election of six members of the Legislative Council was scheduled for the following year.<ref name="micaSelfGovernment">{{cite web |title=Towards Self-government |url=http://www.sg/explore/history_towards.htm |publisher=Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts, Singapore |access-date=18 June 2006 |archive-date=13 July 2006 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20060713023113/http://www.sg/explore/history_towards.htm |url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
In 1990, ] succeeded Lee as Prime Minister. During his tenure, the country tackled the impacts of the 1997 ], the 2003 ] outbreak, and ] posed by the ] group post-]. ], the eldest son of Lee Kuan Yew, became the third prime minister in 2004.<ref> {{cite web| title = Country profile: Singapore | publisher = BBC News | url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/country_profiles/1143240.stm | accessdate = 2006-04-14}} </ref> Amongst his more notable decisions is the plan to open two ]s (which include legalised ]s) to attract more foreign tourists. | |||
During the 1950s, ], with strong ties to the trade unions and Chinese schools, waged a ] against the government, leading to the ]. The ], ], and ] in Singapore were all linked to these events.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://library.thinkquest.org/12405/19.htm |title=Communism |website=Thinkquest|access-date=29 January 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000409182924/http://library.thinkquest.org/12405/19.htm|archive-date=9 April 2000}}</ref> ], pro-independence leader of the ], won Singapore's first general election in 1955.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Low |first=James |date=2004 |title=Kept in Position: The Labour Front-Alliance Government of Chief Minister David Marshall in Singapore, April 1955 – June 1956 |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/20072556 |journal=Journal of Southeast Asian Studies |volume=35 |issue=1 |pages=41–64 |doi=10.1017/S0022463404000037 |jstor=20072556 |s2cid=154326049 |issn=0022-4634|access-date=20 February 2021|archive-date=19 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419081147/https://www.jstor.org/stable/20072556|url-status=live}}</ref> He led a delegation to ], and Britain rejected his demand for complete self-rule. He resigned and was replaced by ] in 1956, and after further negotiations Britain agreed to grant Singapore full internal ] for all matters except defence and foreign affairs on 3 June 1959.<ref name=countrystudies10>{{cite web |url=http://countrystudies.us/singapore/10.htm |title=Country studies: Singapore: Road to Independence |publisher=U.S. Library of Congress|access-date=16 May 2020|archive-date=4 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140704220519/http://countrystudies.us/singapore/10.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> Days before, in the ], the ] (PAP) won a landslide victory.<ref name="yewnyt">{{cite news |title=Headliners; Retiring, Semi |date=2 December 1990 |newspaper=] |url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9D0CE4DD123DF931A35751C1A966958260|access-date=27 December 2008|archive-date=18 March 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090318035148/http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9D0CE4DD123DF931A35751C1A966958260|url-status=live}}</ref> ] Sir ] served as the first ] (Head of State).<ref name="Law">{{cite web |url=http://www.singaporelaw.sg/content/LegalSyst1.html |title=The Singapore Legal System |publisher=Singapore Academy of Law|access-date=26 June 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110603225639/http://www.singaporelaw.sg/content/LegalSyst1.html|archive-date=3 June 2011}}</ref> | |||
==Politics and government== | |||
=== Within Malaysia === | |||
<!--Please add new information into relevant articles of the series--> | |||
{{ |
{{Main|Singapore in Malaysia}} | ||
]s were used to transport cargoes and supplies between nearshore ships and Singapore River.]] | |||
{{See also|Law of Singapore}} | |||
PAP leaders believed that Singapore's future lay with Malaya, due to strong ties between the two. It was thought that reuniting with Malaya would benefit the economy by creating a common market, alleviating ongoing unemployment woes in Singapore. However, a sizeable left-wing faction of the PAP was strongly opposed to the merger, fearing a loss of influence, and hence formed the ], after being kicked out from the PAP.<ref>{{cite book |last=Lee |first=T. H |year=1996 |title=The Open United Front: The Communist Struggle in Singapore, 1954–1966 |publisher=Singapore: South Seas Society}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Bloodworth |first=D |year=1986 |title=The Tiger and the Trojan Horse |url=https://archive.org/details/tigertrojanhorse00bloo|url-access=registration |publisher=Singapore: Times Books International}}</ref> The ruling party of Malaya, ] (UMNO), was staunchly anti-communist, and it was suspected UMNO would support the non-communist factions of PAP. UMNO, initially sceptical of the idea of a merger due to distrust of the PAP government and concern that the large ethnic Chinese population in Singapore would alter the racial balance in Malaya on which their political power base depended, became supportive of the idea of the merger due to joint fear of a communist takeover.<ref name="Wipe out extremists">{{cite news |title=MCA: Wipe out extremists |date=18 February 1959 |newspaper=Singapore Standard}}</ref> | |||
On 27 May 1961, Malaya's prime minister, ], made a surprise proposal for a new Federation called ], which would unite the current and former British possessions in the region: the ], Singapore, ], ], and ].<ref name="Wipe out extremists" /><ref name="Big Unity Plan">{{cite news |title=Big 'Unity' Plan – Tengku on closer ties with S'pore, Borneo and Brunei |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/assets/images/ST175/NewspaperSG/1961-05-28/full.jpg |work=The Straits Times |publisher=] |date=28 May 1961 |page=1 |access-date=9 March 2022 |archive-date=9 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220309061422/https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/assets/images/ST175/NewspaperSG/1961-05-28/full.jpg |url-status=live}}</ref> UMNO leaders believed that the additional Malay population in the Bornean territories would balance Singapore's Chinese population.<ref name=countrystudies10 /> The British government, for its part, believed that the merger would prevent Singapore from becoming a haven for communism.<ref>{{cite news |title=Appeal To Singapore |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19620328-1.2.70.1?ST=1&AT=advanced |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |page=10 |date=28 March 1962|access-date=19 August 2017|archive-date=19 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180319214737/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19620328-1.2.70.1?ST=1&AT=advanced|url-status=live}}</ref> To obtain a mandate for a merger, the PAP held a ]. This referendum included a choice of different terms for a merger with Malaysia and had no option for avoiding merger altogether.<ref>{{cite news |title=Yes – What a win for Premier Lee |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/assets/images/ST175/NewspaperSG/1962-09-02/full.jpg |access-date=9 March 2022 |work=The Straits Times |publisher=Singapore Press Holdings |date=2 September 1962 |page=1 |archive-date=9 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220309061847/https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/assets/images/ST175/NewspaperSG/1962-09-02/full.jpg |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Merger "Yes" |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/assets/images/ST175/NewspaperSG/1962-09-03/full.jpg |access-date=9 March 2022 |work=The Straits Times |publisher=Singapore Press Holdings |date=3 September 1962 |page=1 |archive-date=9 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220309061616/https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/assets/images/ST175/NewspaperSG/1962-09-03/full.jpg |url-status=live}}</ref> On 16 September 1963, Singapore joined with Malaya, the North Borneo, and Sarawak to form the new Federation of Malaysia under the terms of the ].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Abisheganaden |first1=Felix |title=Hail Malaysia! |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/assets/images/ST175/NewspaperSG/1963-09-16/full.jpg |access-date=9 March 2022 |work=] |publisher=] |date=16 September 1963 |page=1 |archive-date=9 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220309062748/https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/assets/images/ST175/NewspaperSG/1963-09-16/full.jpg |url-status=live}}</ref> Under this Agreement, Singapore had a relatively high level of autonomy compared to the other states of Malaysia.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/1dab53ea-788c-461c-acfb-ca625b974c9c |title=Singapore becomes part of Malaysia |publisher=HistorySG|access-date=6 February 2017|archive-date=7 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170207040425/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/1dab53ea-788c-461c-acfb-ca625b974c9c|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
'''Singapore''' is a ] with a ] of ] ] representing different ]. The bulk of the executive powers rests with the ], headed by the ]. The office of ], historically a ceremonial one, was granted some ] powers as of 1991 for a few key decisions such as the use of the national reserves and the appointment of ] positions.<ref>{{cite web | title=The Presidency in Singapore | work=Istana website|url=http://www.istana.gov.sg/pro.html| accessdate=2005-01-30 }} </ref> Although the position is to be elected by popular vote, only the 1993 election has been contested to date. The ] branch of government is the Parliament. | |||
] opposed the formation of Malaysia due to its own claims over Borneo and launched ] ("Confrontation" in Indonesian) in response to the formation of Malaysia.<ref>{{cite book |last1=James |first1=Harold |last2=Sheil-Small |first2=Denis |year=1971 |title=The Undeclared War: The Story of the Indonesian Confrontation 1962–1966 |publisher=Rowman and Littlefield |location=Totowa |isbn=978-0-87471-074-8}}{{cite book |last=Mackie |first=J.A.C. |year=1974 |title=Konfrontasi: The Indonesia-Malaysia Dispute 1963–1966 |location=Kuala Lumpur |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=978-0-19-638247-0}}</ref> On 10 March 1965, ] on a mezzanine floor of ] exploded, killing three people and injuring 33 others. It was the deadliest of at least 42 bomb incidents which occurred during the confrontation.<ref>{{cite news |title=Record of the Wreckers |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19650516-1.2.85 |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=16 May 1965|access-date=19 August 2017|archive-date=19 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170819065549/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19650516-1.2.85|url-status=live}}</ref> Two members of the ], ] and ], were eventually convicted and executed for the crime.<ref>{{cite news |title=Mac Donald House blast: Two for trial |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19650406-1.2.99 |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=6 April 1965|access-date=19 August 2017|archive-date=19 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170819064442/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19650406-1.2.99|url-status=live}}</ref> The explosion caused US$250,000 ({{Inflation|US|250000|1965|fmt=eq|cursign=]}}) in damages to MacDonald House.<ref>{{cite web |author=Tan Lay Yuan |title=MacDonald House bomb explosion |url=http://infopedia.nl.sg/articles/SIP_62_2004-12-17.html |website=Singapore Infopedia |publisher=National Library Board|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111215082844/http://infopedia.nl.sg/articles/SIP_62_2004-12-17.html|archive-date=15 December 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Mac Donald House suffered $250,000 bomb damage |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19651009-1.2.46 |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=9 October 1965|access-date=19 August 2017|archive-date=19 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170819065124/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19651009-1.2.46|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
] are ] for ] since the ] was modified in 1991.<ref> {{cite web|title=Parliamentary Elections Act|publisher=Singapore Statutes Online|url=http://statutes.agc.gov.sg/non_version/cgi-bin/cgi_getdata.pl?actno=2001-REVED-218&doctitle=PARLIAMENTARY%20ELECTIONS%20ACT%0A&segid=946439076-000003|accessdate=2006-05-08}}</ref> | |||
Even after the merger, the ] on many political and economic issues.<ref name="Road to Independence" /> Despite an agreement to establish a common market, Singapore continued to face restrictions when trading with the rest of Malaysia. In retaliation, Singapore did not extend to ] and ] the full extent of the loans agreed to for economic development of the two eastern states. Talks soon broke down, and abusive speeches and writing became rife on both sides. This led to communal strife in Singapore, culminating in the ].<ref>{{Cite book |title=A moment of anguish: Singapore in Malaysia and the politics of disengagement |last=Lau |first=A |publisher=Times Academic Press |year=2000 |location=Singapore}}</ref> On 7 August 1965, Malaysian prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman, seeing no alternative to avoid further bloodshed (and with the help of secret negotiations by PAP leaders, as revealed in 2015)<ref name="Lim2015" /> advised the ] that it should vote to expel Singapore from Malaysia.<ref name="Road to Independence">{{cite news |title=Road to Independence |url=http://ourstory.asia1.com.sg/merger/merger.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131013002423/http://ourstory.asia1.com.sg/merger/merger.html|archive-date=13 October 2013 |publisher=] |year=1998}}</ref> On 9 August 1965, ] voted 126 to 0 to move a bill to amend the constitution, expelling Singapore from Malaysia, which left Singapore as a newly independent country.<ref name=countrystudies10 /><ref name="LOC2">{{cite web |url=http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+sg0033) |title=Singapore as Part of Malaysia |last=Leitch Lepoer |first=Barbara |year=1989 |website=Library of Congress Country Studies |publisher=Government Printing Office|access-date=29 January 2011 |location=Washington, DC|archive-date=29 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170629223526/http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+sg0033)|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.europe-solidaire.org/spip.php?article7878 |title=A Summary of Malaysia-Singapore History |website=europe-solidaire|access-date=29 January 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120529081759/http://www.europe-solidaire.org/spip.php?article7878|archive-date=29 May 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/dc1efe7a-8159-40b2-9244-cdb078755013#27 |title=Singapore separates from Malaysia and becomes independent – Singapore History |quote=Negotiations were, however, done in complete secrecy... (Tunku moved) a bill to amend the constitution that would provide for Singapore's departure from the Federation. Razak was also waiting for the fully signed separation agreement from Singapore to allay possible suggestions that Singapore was expelled from Malaysia. |publisher=National Library Board|access-date=12 May 2017|archive-date=11 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111210312/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/dc1efe7a-8159-40b2-9244-cdb078755013#27|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://thehistoryofsingapore.com/2015/07/31/episode-0-trailer/ |title=Episode 0: Trailer|access-date=14 August 2022|archive-date=20 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210920150336/https://thehistoryofsingapore.com/2015/07/31/episode-0-trailer/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Lim2015">{{Cite news |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/secret-documents-reveal-extent-of-negotiations-for-separation |title=Secret documents reveal extent of negotiations for Separation |newspaper=The Straits Times |date=22 December 2015 |last1=Lim |first1=Edmund|access-date=15 August 2022|archive-date=20 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210920150329/https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/secret-documents-reveal-extent-of-negotiations-for-separation|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
Singaporean politics have been dominated by the ] (PAP) since self-government was attained.<ref> Worthington (2002), Mauzy and Milne (2002).</ref> In consequence, foreign political analysts and several opposition parties like the ], the ] (SDP) and the ] (SDA) have argued that Singapore is essentially a ]. Many analysts consider Singapore to be more of an ] or ] than a true ]. The ] lists Singapore as a country with a "hybrid" system comprised of democratic and authoritarian elements.{{Fact|date=April 2007}} ] ranks the country as "partly free".<ref>{{cite web | url= http://www.freedomhouse.org/template.cfm?page=22&year=2006&country=7055 | title= Country Report: Singapore | year= 2006 | publisher= ]}}</ref> Though ]s are free from irregularities and vote rigging, the PAP has been criticised for manipulating the political system through its use of ], ], and civil ] suits against opposition politicians. ], the exiled former ], is a prominent critic. Seow and opposition politicians such as ] and ] claim that Singapore courts favour the PAP government, and there is no ].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.rsf.org/rubrique.php3?id_rubrique=554 | |||
| title=Worldwide Press Freedom Index | accessdate=2006-04-13}} </ref> | |||
=== Republic of Singapore === | |||
Singapore has a highly successful and transparent ]. ] are dominant in various sectors of the local economy, such as ], ], and ]. Singapore has consistently been rated as the least-corrupt country in ] and amongst the top ten cleanest from corruption in the world by ].<ref> {{cite web | url = http://www.transparency.org/policy_research/surveys_indices/cpi | title = Transparency International - Corruption Perceptions Index 2006 | accessdate = 2007-02-03 }} </ref> | |||
{{See also|Independence of Singapore Agreement 1965}} | |||
], the first prime minister of Singapore.]] | |||
After being expelled from Malaysia, Singapore became independent as the Republic of Singapore on 9 August 1965,<ref>{{cite news |title=Road to Independence |url=http://ourstory.asia1.com.sg/merger/merger.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131013002423/http://ourstory.asia1.com.sg/merger/merger.html |archive-date=13 October 2013 |publisher=Headlines, Lifelines, by ] |year=1998}}</ref><ref name="ST 10 Aug Front page">{{cite news |last1=Abisheganaden |first1=Felix |title=Singapore is out |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/assets/images/ST175/NewspaperSG/1965-08-10/full.jpg |access-date=21 February 2022 |work=] |publisher=] |date=10 August 1965 |archive-date=21 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220221051204/https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/assets/images/ST175/NewspaperSG/1965-08-10/full.jpg |url-status=live}}</ref> with ] and ] as the first prime minister and president respectively.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Past and present leaders of Singapore |website=Infopedia |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_139_2005-01-19.html |publisher=National Libraries Board |access-date=28 May 2020 |archive-date=5 May 2020|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200505061547/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_139_2005-01-19.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Yusof to be the first President |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19651215-1.2.60 |website=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=1 February 1960 |access-date=28 May 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |via=National Libraries Board |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200807064731/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19651215-1.2.60 |url-status=live}}</ref> In 1967, the country co-founded the ] (ASEAN).<ref>{{cite wikisource|Bangkok Declaration}}</ref> Race riots ] in 1969.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Sandhu |first1=Kernial Singh |last2=Wheatley |first2=Paul |title=Management of Success: The Moulding of Modern Singapore |publisher=Institute of Southeast Asian Studies |isbn=978-981-3035-42-3 |page=107 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ldKwPQ2PyBAC&pg=PA107 |year=1989}}</ref> Lee Kuan Yew's emphasis on rapid economic growth, support for business entrepreneurship, and limitations on internal democracy shaped Singapore's policies for the next half-century.<ref>Terry McCarthy, "Lee Kuan Yew." ''Time ''154: 7–8 (1999). </ref><ref name="lky-7prin" /> Economic growth continued throughout the 1980s, with the unemployment rate falling to 3% and real GDP growth averaging at about 8% up until 1999. During the 1980s, Singapore began to shift towards high-tech industries, such as the ] sector, in order to remain competitive as neighbouring countries began manufacturing with cheaper labour. ] was opened in 1981 and ] was formed.<ref>{{cite web |title=History of Changi Airport |publisher=Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore |url=http://www.changiairport.com.sg/changi/en/about_us/history_changi.html |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20060629014047/http://www.changiairport.com.sg/changi/en/about_us/history_changi.html |archive-date=29 June 2006}}</ref> The ] became one of the world's busiest ports and the service and tourism industries also grew immensely during this period.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lunch Dialogue on 'Singapore as a Transport Hub' |url=https://lkyspp.nus.edu.sg/news-events/events/details/lunch-dialogue-on-singapore-as-a-transport-hub |website=Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy|access-date=17 November 2018|archive-date=17 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181117104954/https://lkyspp.nus.edu.sg/news-events/events/details/lunch-dialogue-on-singapore-as-a-transport-hub|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Lam |first1=Yin Yin |title=Three factors that have made Singapore a global logistics hub |url=http://blogs.worldbank.org/transport/three-factors-have-made-singapore-global-logistics-hub |website=The World Bank Blogs |date=26 January 2017|access-date=17 November 2018|archive-date=17 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181117105041/http://blogs.worldbank.org/transport/three-factors-have-made-singapore-global-logistics-hub|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
<div style="float: right; clear: right; font-size: 8pt; padding:5px; margin-left:20px; border:1px solid #CCC"> | |||
{{Singapore Urban Planning Areas Labelled Map}} | |||
Singapore is divided into 55 ], grouped into 5 ]. | |||
</div> | |||
The PAP has remained in power since independence. Some activists and opposition politicians see the government's strict regulation of political and media activities as an infringement on political rights.<ref>{{cite news |title=Singapore elections |publisher=] |date=5 May 2006 |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/4976536.stm|access-date=28 July 2017|archive-date=15 January 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090115181132/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/4976536.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> In response, Singapore has seen several significant political changes, such as the introduction of the non-constituency members of parliament in 1984 to allow up to three losing candidates from opposition parties to be appointed as MPs. Group representation constituencies (GRCs) were introduced in 1988 to create multi-seat electoral divisions, intended to ensure minority representation in parliament.<ref>{{Singapore legislation|title=Parliamentary Elections Act|cap=218|titlelink=Parliamentary Elections Act (Singapore)}}</ref> Nominated members of parliament were introduced in 1990 to allow non-elected non-partisan MPs.<ref name="HoKhaiLeong">Ho Khai Leong (2003). ''Shared Responsibilities, Unshared Power: The Politics of Policy-Making in Singapore''. Eastern Univ Pr. {{ISBN|978-981-210-218-8}}</ref> The ] was amended in 1991 to provide for an ] who has veto power in the use of ] and appointments to certain public offices.<ref>{{cite web |title=Presidential Elections |publisher=Elections Department Singapore |date=18 April 2006 |url=http://www.elections.gov.sg/presidential_elections.htm|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080827213801/http://www.elections.gov.sg/presidential_elections.htm|archive-date=27 August 2008}}</ref> | |||
Although Singapore's laws are inherited from British and ]n laws, including many elements of ], the PAP has also consistently rejected ] as "]." Laws restricting ] are justified by claims that unrestricted speech may breed disharmony within Singapore's multi-racial, multi-religious society. Some offences can lead to heavy fines or ], and there are laws which allow ] for ] and ]. | |||
More recently the PAP government has claimed to relax some of its ] policies and created a "Feedback Unit"<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.reach.gov.sg | title = Feedback Unit, Singapore}}</ref> to receive comments on some policies and public services. | |||
In 1990, ] succeeded Lee and became Singapore's second prime minister.<ref>{{cite book |title=Encyclopedia of Singapore |date=2006 |location=Singapore |publisher=Tailsman Publishing |isbn=978-981-05-5667-9 |page=82 |url=http://eservice.nlb.gov.sg/item_holding_s.aspx?bid=12751459|access-date=19 August 2017|archive-date=7 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170707102725/http://eservice.nlb.gov.sg/item_holding_s.aspx?bid=12751459|url-status=live}}</ref> During Goh's tenure, the country went through the ] and the 2003 ] outbreak.<ref>{{cite news |last=Yeoh |first=En-Lai |date=9 April 2003 |title=Singapore Woman Linked to 100 SARS Cases |agency=]}}</ref><ref name="Goh">{{cite web |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_860_2004-12-27.html |title=Goh Chok Tong |publisher=National Library Board|access-date=6 February 2017|archive-date=29 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230729194333/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_860_2004-12-27.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2004, ], the eldest son of ], became the country's third prime minister.<ref name="Goh" /> Lee Hsien Loong's tenure included the ], the resolution of a ] at ] between Singapore and Malaysia, the introduction of the two ]s (IRs), located at the ] and ], and the ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Country profile: Singapore |publisher=BBC News |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/country_profiles/1143240.stm|access-date=22 April 2010 |date=15 July 2009|archive-date=29 December 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081229042533/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/country_profiles/1143240.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> The PAP suffered its ] in 2011, winning just 60% of votes, amidst debate over issues including the influx of foreign workers and the high cost of living.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/ge2015-a-look-back-at-the-last-5-general-elections-from-1991-to-2011 |title=GE2015: A look back at the last 5 general elections from 1991 to 2011 |last=hermesauto |date=28 August 2015 |work=The Straits Times|access-date=7 October 2018|archive-date=7 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181007073757/https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/ge2015-a-look-back-at-the-last-5-general-elections-from-1991-to-2011|url-status=live}}</ref> On 23 March 2015, Lee Kuan Yew ], and a one-week period of public mourning was observed nationwide.<ref name="lky-7prin">{{cite news |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/remembering-lee-kuan-yew-our-chief-diplomat-to-the-world |title=Lee Kuan Yew: Our chief diplomat to the world |date=25 March 2015 |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore|access-date=8 November 2015|archive-date=26 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151026020834/http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/remembering-lee-kuan-yew-our-chief-diplomat-to-the-world|url-status=live}}</ref> Subsequently, the PAP regained its dominance in Parliament through the ], receiving 69.9% of the popular vote,<ref name=BTresults>{{cite news |last1=Lee |first1=U-Wen |title=PAP racks up landslide win, takes 83 out of 89 seats |url=http://www.businesstimes.com.sg/government-economy/singapore-general-election/pap-racks-up-landslide-win-takes-83-out-of-89-seats |work=Business Times (Singapore) |access-date=13 September 2015 |archive-date=13 September 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150913023301/http://www.businesstimes.com.sg/government-economy/singapore-general-election/pap-racks-up-landslide-win-takes-83-out-of-89-seats}}</ref> although this remained lower than the 2001 tally of 75.3%<ref name=STresults>{{cite news |last=Heng |first=Janice |title=For PAP, the numbers hark back to 2001 polls showing |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/politics/for-pap-the-numbers-hark-back-to-2001-polls-showing |newspaper=The Straits Times |date=12 September 2015 |location=Singapore|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150912094804/http://www.straitstimes.com/politics/for-pap-the-numbers-hark-back-to-2001-polls-showing|url-status=live|archive-date=12 September 2015}}</ref> and the 1968 tally of 86.7%.<ref name="ELE">{{cite web |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_549_2004-12-28.html |title=History of general elections in Singapore |publisher=National Library Board|access-date=4 February 2020|archive-date=4 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200204130922/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_549_2004-12-28.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The ] held in July saw the PAP drop to 61% of the vote, while the ] took 10 of the 93 seats, the highest number ever won by another party.<ref name="Economist2020election">{{cite news |url=https://www.economist.com/asia/2020/07/18/why-so-many-singaporeans-voted-for-the-opposition |title=Why so many Singaporeans voted for the opposition |newspaper=The Economist |date=18 July 2020 |access-date=20 July 2020 |archive-date=20 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720041203/https://www.economist.com/asia/2020/07/18/why-so-many-singaporeans-voted-for-the-opposition |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
==Geography and climate== | |||
On 15 May 2024, ] became Singapore's fourth Prime Minister; he is the first prime minister born after independence.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://sg.news.yahoo.com/singapore-swear-lawrence-wong-prime-212009750.html |title=Singapore to swear in Lawrence Wong as new prime minister |website=Yahoo! News Singapore |date=14 May 2024 |agency=Agence France-Presse |access-date=15 May 2024 |archive-date=15 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240515110042/https://sg.news.yahoo.com/singapore-swear-lawrence-wong-prime-212009750.html |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
{{main|Geography and climate of Singapore}} | |||
== Government and politics == | |||
Singapore consists of ], including the main island itself. There are two connections to ] — the man-made ] in the north, and the ] in the west. ], ], ] and ] are the largest of Singapore's many smaller islands. The highest natural point of Singapore is ] (166 metres, 538 ]). | |||
{{Main|Government of Singapore|Politics of Singapore|Administrative divisions of Singapore}} | |||
] is the official residence and office of the president, as well as the working office of the prime minister.]] | |||
The urban area used to only be concentrated on the south of Singapore, around the mouth of the ] and what is now the ], while the rest of the land was undeveloped ] or used for ]. Since the 1960s, the government has constructed new residential towns in outlying areas, resulting in an entirely built-up urban landscape. The ] is the government agency responsible for ]. | |||
] (left) and the ] (right) where the ] convenes]] | |||
] at ] provides a public demonstration area, which are often restricted in other parts of the country.]] | |||
Singapore is a ] republic based on the ]. The ] is the supreme law of the country, establishing the structure and responsibility of governance. The ] is the ].<ref name=pmo2>{{cite web |url=https://www.pmo.gov.sg/The-Government |title=PMO | the Government |date=8 July 2023 | access-date=27 August 2023 | archive-date=4 August 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230804090931/https://www.pmo.gov.sg/The-Government | url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |editor-last=Morgan |editor-first=Grace |title=A Guide to the Singapore Constitution |date=2016 |url=https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1006&context=studentpub |publisher=] |pages=33–36 |access-date=28 October 2019 |archive-date=20 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191220093159/https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1006&context=studentpub |url-status=live}}</ref> The governance of Singapore is ] into three branches: | |||
* ]: The executive consists of the cabinet, led by the ], and the ] led by the ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.mlaw.gov.sg/about-us/our-legal-system/#:~:text=The%20Executive%20includes%20the%20Cabinet,and%20is%20accountable%20to%20Parliament |title=Our Legal System | access-date=2 September 2023 | archive-date=2 September 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230902052126/https://www.mlaw.gov.sg/about-us/our-legal-system/#:~:text=The%20Executive%20includes%20the%20Cabinet,and%20is%20accountable%20to%20Parliament | url-status=live}}</ref> The cabinet is collectively responsible for all government policies and the day-to-day administration of the affairs of state. It is typically composed of members of the Singapore Parliament. The prime minister is appointed by the President, and the ministers in the cabinet and the attorney-general are appointed by the president, acting on the ] of the prime minister. The prime minister is the effective head of the executive branch of government.<ref name=pmo1>{{cite web |url=https://www.pmo.gov.sg/The-Cabinet |title=PMO | the Cabinet |date=23 December 2022 | access-date=27 August 2023 | archive-date=25 April 2006 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060425224718/http://www.cabinet.gov.sg/smgoh.htm | url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=pmo2 /> | |||
* ]: The Singapore Parliament is ] and, together with the president, comprises the legislature.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.parliament.gov.sg/ |title=Home | Parliament of Singapore |access-date=28 October 2019 |archive-date=27 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191027075322/https://www.parliament.gov.sg/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Members of Parliament (MP) consist of elected, non-constituency, and nominated members. The majority of MPs are elected into parliament at a general election. The Singapore Parliament is collectively responsible for enacting the laws governing the state.<ref name=pmo2 /> The president holds limited ] of oversight over the government. The president's veto powers are further subject to parliamentary overruling.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.istana.gov.sg/content/istana/thepresident.html |title=The President |publisher=Singapore Government|access-date=26 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110611130556/http://www.istana.gov.sg/content/istana/thepresident.html|archive-date=11 June 2011 |date=19 December 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |editor-last=Morgan |editor-first=Grace |title=A Guide to the Singapore Constitution |date=2016 |url=https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1006&context=studentpub |publisher=] |page=27 |access-date=28 October 2019 |archive-date=20 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191220093159/https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1006&context=studentpub |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ]: The judiciary's function is to independently administer justice and is headed by the Chief Justice. The judges and judicial commissioners are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.judiciary.gov.sg/who-we-are/role-structure-supreme-court/structure#:~:text=The%20Supreme%20Court%20Bench%20consists,advice%20of%20the%20Prime%20Minister |title=Role and structure of the Supreme Court – structure | access-date=2 September 2023 | archive-date=2 April 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230402100003/https://www.judiciary.gov.sg/who-we-are/role-structure-supreme-court/structure#:~:text=The%20Supreme%20Court%20Bench%20consists,advice%20of%20the%20Prime%20Minister | url-status=live}}</ref> The ] and ] adjudicates in civil disputes between persons, convicts or acquits accused persons in criminal prosecutions, and ] to decide on its constitutionality. Any law or provision of a law found to be unconstitutional can be struck down by the Supreme Court.<ref>{{cite book |editor-last=Morgan |editor-first=Grace |title=A Guide to the Singapore Constitution |date=2016 |url=https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1006&context=studentpub |publisher=] |pages=63–67 |access-date=28 October 2019 |archive-date=20 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191220093159/https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1006&context=studentpub |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
The president is directly elected by popular vote for a renewable six-year term. Requirements for this position, which were enacted by the PAP government, are extremely stringent, such that only a handful of people qualify for the candidacy.<ref>{{cite book |last=Tan |first=Kevin Y.L. |date=2019 |chapter=Legislating Dominance: Parliament and the Making of Singapore's Governance Model |editor-last1=Rahim |editor-first1=Lily Zubaidah |editor-last2=Barr |editor-first2=Michael D. |title=The Limits of Authoritarian Governance in Singapore's Developmental State |publisher=] |page=264 |isbn=978-981-13-1555-8 |doi=10.1007/978-981-13-1556-5 |s2cid=239112493}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{cite web |title=What are the Qualifications Required to Run for President in Singapore? |url=https://singaporelegaladvice.com/law-articles/singapore-president-qualifications/ |access-date=26 April 2022 |website=SingaporeLegalAdvice.com |language=en-US |archive-date=11 February 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240211001212/https://singaporelegaladvice.com/law-articles/singapore-president-qualifications |url-status=live}}</ref> These qualifications include that a candidate needs to be a person at least 45 years of age who is no longer a member of a political party, to either have held ] for at least 3 years in a number of specific public service leadership roles, or to have 3 years experience as chief executive of a fully profitable ] company with at least S$500 million in ], be a resident in Singapore for at least 10 years, not have a criminal record, and more.<ref>{{cite web |title=Constitution of the Republic of Singapore – article 19 |url=https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Act/CONS1963#pr19-|access-date=16 June 2021 |website=sso.agc.gov.sg|archive-date=28 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528030634/https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Act/CONS1963#pr19-|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":1" /><ref>{{cite web |title=Elected Presidency: Higher eligibility criteria accepted, but Govt says no to longer qualifying terms |url=https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/elected-presidency-govt-agrees-raise-eligibility-criteria-private-sector-candidates |access-date=26 April 2022 |website=TODAY |archive-date=26 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220426173916/https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/elected-presidency-govt-agrees-raise-eligibility-criteria-private-sector-candidates |url-status=live}}</ref> Candidates must also "satisfy" the ] (PEC) that he or she is a person of integrity, good character and reputation.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.eld.gov.sg/candidate_presidential_qualify.html |url-access= |title=Presidential Candidates: Qualifying Criteria |year=2024 |publisher=Elections Department Singapore |location=Singapore |access-date=20 November 2024 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240726012640/https://www.eld.gov.sg/candidate_presidential_qualify.html |archive-date=26 July 2024}}</ref> | |||
Singapore has an on-going ] project with earth obtained from its own hills, the sea-bed, and neighbouring countries. As a result, Singapore's land area grew from 581.5 square kilometres (224.5 ]) in the 1960s to 699.3 square kilometres (269.1 sq mi) today, and may grow by another 100 square kilometres (38.6 sq mi) by 2030.<ref> {{cite web| title = Towards Environmental Sustainability, State of the Environment 2005 Report (PDF)| publisher = Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Singapore |accessdate = 2006-04-14| url = http://app.nea.gov.sg/counter/nea_soecover.asp }}</ref> Many of the smaller islands have been expanded and joined together through land reclamation in order to form larger, more functional islands, such as in the case of ]. | |||
From 2017, the Constitution requires that presidential elections be "]" for a racial community if no one from that ethnic group has been elected to the presidency in the five most recent terms.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Constitution of the Republic of Singapore – article 19B |url=https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Act/CONS1963#pr19B-|access-date=16 June 2021 |website=sso.agc.gov.sg|archive-date=28 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528030634/https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Act/CONS1963#pr19B-|url-status=live}}</ref> Only members of that community may qualify as candidates in a reserved presidential election.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/09/halimah-yacob-named-singapore-malay-president-170913073940319.html |title=Halimah Yacob named Singapore's first female president |publisher=Al Jazeera |date=13 September 2017 |access-date=13 September 2017 |archive-date=2 May 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190502112130/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/09/halimah-yacob-named-singapore-malay-president-170913073940319.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In the ], this combination of stringent requirements and a reserved election that required the candidate to be of the 13% ] led to the PEC approving a single candidate for the presidency;<ref>{{cite news |date=16 September 2017 |title=Only one Singaporean is fit to be president |newspaper=The Economist |location=London |url=https://www.economist.com/asia/2017/09/16/only-one-singaporean-is-fit-to-be-president |access-date=16 June 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210506175456/https://www.economist.com/asia/2017/09/16/only-one-singaporean-is-fit-to-be-president |archive-date=6 May 2021}}</ref> ], considered part of the Malay community, won in an uncontested election. She also became Singapore's first female president. | |||
], a 67.3-hectare (166 ]) botanical garden in Singapore that includes the National Orchid Garden, which has a collection of more than 3,000 species of ]s.]] | |||
Under the ] system, Singapore has a ] with no distinct seasons. Its climate is characterised by uniform temperature and pressure, high ], and abundant ]. Temperatures range from 22°] to 34 °C (72°–93°]). On average, the ] is around 90% in the morning and 60% in the afternoon. During prolonged heavy rain, relative humidity often reaches 100%.<ref> {{cite web| title = Climate of Singapore | url = http://app.nea.gov.sg/cms/htdocs/article.asp?pid=1088 | publisher = National Environment Agency, Singapore|accessdate = 2006-04-14}}</ref> The lowest and highest temperatures recorded in its maritime history are 18.4 °C (65.1 °F) and 37.8 °C (100.0 °F) respectively. The highest wind speed recorded is 150 km/h on ], ]. June and July are the hottest months, while November and December make up the wetter ] season. From August to October, there is often haze, sometimes severe enough to prompt public health warnings, due to ]s in neighbouring ]. Singapore does not observe ] or a summer time zone change. The length of the day is nearly constant year round due to the country's location near the equator. | |||
Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected at least every five years (or sooner with a ]). The 14th and ] has 103 members; 93 were directly elected from the ], nine are nonpartisan ] appointed by the president, and three are ] from opposition parties who were not elected in the last general election but appointed to the legislature to increase opposition party representation. In ] (GRCs), political parties assemble teams of candidates to contest elections. At least one MP in a GRC must be of an ethnic minority background. All elections are held using ].<ref name="parliament.gov.sg">{{cite web |url=https://www.parliament.gov.sg/about-us/structure/members-of-parliament |title=Members of Parliament |publisher=Parliament of Singapore |access-date=9 October 2019 |archive-date=16 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191216180443/https://www.parliament.gov.sg/about-us/structure/members-of-parliament |url-status=live}}</ref> MPs host weekly ], called "]", where they help constituents resolve personal issues which can be related to housing, financial assistance, and immigration.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Yong |first=Ng Tze |date=20 October 2008 |title=MP, I want help with... |url=http://www.asiaone.com/Business/News/My+Money/Story/A1Story20081019-94743.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110527135154/http://www.asiaone.com/Business/News/My+Money/Story/A1Story20081019-94743.html |archive-date=27 May 2011 |access-date=20 October 2008 |website=asiaone}}</ref> | |||
About 23% of Singapore's land area consists of forest and nature reserves.<ref>{{cite web| url= http://earthtrends.wri.org/pdf_library/country_profiles/for_cou_702.pdf | title = Earthtrends country profile}}</ref> Urbanization has eliminated many areas of former primary ], with the only remaining area of primary rainforest being ]. A variety of parks are maintained with human intervention, such as the ]. | |||
The ] occupies a dominant position in Singaporean politics, having won large parliamentary majorities in every election since ] was granted in 1959. The PAP, self-described as pragmatic, have a syncretic ideology combining ], ], and ].<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Tan |first=Kenneth Paul |date=2007 |title=Singapore's National Day Rally speech: A site of ideological negotiation |url=http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00472330701408635 |journal=Journal of Contemporary Asia |language=en |volume=37 |issue=3 |pages=292–308 |doi=10.1080/00472330701408635 |s2cid=145405958 |issn=0047-2336 |via=tandfonline |access-date=16 May 2023 |archive-date=22 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231022143043/https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00472330701408635 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Kuah-Pearce |first=Khun Eng |title=Rebuilding the Ancestral Village: Singaporeans in China |publisher=Hong Kong University Press |year=2011 |isbn=978-988-8053-66-7 |pages=37}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kerr |first=Roger |date=9 December 1999 |title=Optimism For the New Millennium |url=http://www.nzbr.org.nz/documents/speeches/speeches-99/optimism_for_the_new-millennium.doc.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060307184005/http://www.nzbr.org.nz/documents/speeches/speeches-99/optimism_for_the_new-millennium.doc.htm |archive-date=7 March 2006 |access-date=7 March 2006 |website=nzbr}}</ref> Despite promulgating restrictions on civil liberties, Singapore under the PAP has seen consistent economic growth and political stability.<ref name="freedomhouse">{{cite web |url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/template.cfm?page=22&year=2010&country=7915 |title=Freedom in the World 2010 – Singapore |publisher=Freedom House|access-date=12 June 2011|archive-date=7 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107002407/http://www.freedomhouse.org/template.cfm?page=22&year=2010&country=7915|url-status=dead}}</ref> The most represented and popular opposition party is the centre-left ], which holds 8 seats in Parliament.<ref name="Economist2020election" /> | |||
Without natural ] rivers and lakes, the primary domestic source of ] in Singapore is ], collected in ]s or catchment areas. Rainfall supplies approximately 50% of Singapore's water; the remainder is imported from Malaysia or obtained from ] facilities and ] plants. More ] and desalination plants are being built or proposed to reduce reliance on foreign supply.<ref>{{cite web| title = Clean Water | publisher = Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Singapore | accessdate = 2006-04-14| url = http://app.mewr.gov.sg/home.asp?cid=167&nid=167&id=SAS763 }} </ref> | |||
The long-standing hegemony of the People's Action Party has led to Singapore being described by academics as an ],<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Tan |first1=Netina |last2=Preece |first2=Cassandra |date=2024 |title=Democratic backsliding in illiberal Singapore |journal=Asian Journal of Comparative Politics |language=en |volume=9 |issue=1 |pages=25–49 |doi=10.1177/20578911221141090 |doi-access=free}}</ref><ref>Hussin Mutalib, ''Illiberal Democracy and the Future of Opposition in Singapore'', Third World Quarterly Vol. 21, No. 2 (Apr. 2000), pp. 313-342 (30 pages), Published By: Taylor & Francis, Ltd.</ref><ref>Verweij, Marco, and Riccardo Pelizzo. "Singapore: Does Authoritarianism Pay?". ''Journal of Democracy'', vol. 20, no. 2, Apr. 2009, pp. 18–32.</ref><ref>Huat, Chua Beng, 'Liberal Order's Illiberal Prodigy: Singapore as a Non-Liberal Electoral Democratic State', in Harry Verhoeven, and Anatol Lieven (eds), ''Beyond Liberal Order: States, Societies and Markets in the Global Indian Ocean'' (2022; online edn, Oxford Academic, 19 May 2022), <nowiki>https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780197647950.003.0003</nowiki>. Retrieved 20 April 2024.</ref> or a ] state in which the PAP faces little to no feasible political competition to its rule of the country.<ref>Denny Roy, ''Singapore, China, and the "Soft Authoritarian" Challenge'', Asian Survey, Vol. 34, No. 3 (Mar. 1994), pp. 231–242 (12 pages), Published By: University of California Press (JSTOR)</ref><ref name=":4">Gordon Paul Means, ''Soft Authoritarianism in Malaysia and Singapore'', Journal of Democracy, Johns Hopkins University Press, Volume 7, Number 4, October 1996, pp. 103–117</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=The invisible scars made by strikes of the cane |date=3 May 2015 |url=https://www.dw.com/en/the-invisible-scars-left-by-strikes-of-the-cane/a-18298970 |access-date=20 April 2024 |website=dw.com |publisher=Deutsche Welle |location=Bonn |first=Johan |last=von Mirbach |archive-date=20 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240420140132/https://www.dw.com/en/the-invisible-scars-left-by-strikes-of-the-cane/a-18298970 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Vasagar |first=Jeevan |date=21 March 2022 |title=The Subtle Authoritarianism of Southeast Asia's Wealthiest City-State |url=https://lithub.com/the-subtle-authoritarianism-of-southeast-asias-wealthiest-city-state/ |access-date=20 April 2024 |website=Literary Hub |language=en-US |archive-date=19 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240419204944/https://lithub.com/the-subtle-authoritarianism-of-southeast-asias-wealthiest-city-state/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The multi-party democratic process of Singapore has been described as "minimal" in comparison to the state's focus on economic development and social order.<ref name=":5">Kamaludeen Mohamed Nasir &Bryan S. Turner, ''Governing as gardening: reflections on soft authoritarianism in Singapore'', The Graduate Center, City University of New York, USA and the University of Western Sydney, Australia, Pages 339–352 | Received 24 June 2011</ref> According to Gordon P. Means, professor emeritus of political science at ], Singapore reinvented the "benevolent" yet "highly authoritarian" colonial system of governance inherited from Britain rather than forging a full democracy. A conservative ideology of "]" evolved to replace British rule, based on "communal loyalty, distrust of government, and avoidance of individual or collective responsibility for wider public interests", with less regard for ] in the nascent Western sense.<ref>{{Citation |last=Kent |first=Ann |title=Chinese Values and Human Rights |date=2008 |work=Human Rights in Asia: A Reassessment of the Asian Values Debate |pages=83–97 |editor-last=Avonius |editor-first=Leena |url=https://doi.org/10.1057/9780230615496_5 |access-date=18 June 2021 |place=New York |publisher=Palgrave Macmillan US |language=en |doi=10.1057/9780230615496_5 |isbn=978-0-230-61549-6 |editor2-last=Kingsbury |editor2-first=Damien}}</ref> The fact that "neither the public nor elites had experience with democracy" helped create Singapore's political culture, as dominated by status-focused hierarchies committed to economic development.<ref name=":4" /> The legacy of Asian values and the limited political culture within Singapore has led to the country being described as "classic illustration of soft authoritarianism",<ref name=":5" /> and "profoundly illiberal".<ref>Huat, Chua Beng, 'Liberal Order's Illiberal Prodigy: Singapore as a Non-Liberal Electoral Democratic State', in Harry Verhoeven, and Anatol Lieven (eds), ''Beyond Liberal Order: States, Societies and Markets in the Global Indian Ocean'' (2022; online edn, Oxford Academic, 19 May 2022), <nowiki>https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780197647950.003.0003</nowiki>. Retrieved 20 April 2024.</ref> | |||
==Economy== | |||
{{main|Economy of Singapore|Tourism in Singapore}} | |||
] | |||
The judicial system is based on ], continuing the legal tradition established during ] and with substantial local differences. ] is based on the ] originally intended for ], and was at the time as a crown colony also adopted by the British colonial authorities in Singapore and remains the basis of the criminal code in the country with a few exceptions, amendments and repeals since it came into force.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Peers |first=Douglas M. |date=2013 |editor-last1=Chan |editor-first1=Wing-Cheong |editor-last2=Wright |editor-first2=Barry |editor-last3=Yeo |editor-first3=Stanley |title=Codification, Macaulay and the Indian Penal Code: The Legacies and Modern Challenges of Criminal Law Reform |journal=Victorian Studies |volume=55 |issue=4 |pages=749–751 |doi=10.2979/victorianstudies.55.4.749 |s2cid=144820395}}</ref> ] was abolished in 1970.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.singaporelaw.sg/content/LegalSyst.html |title=The Singapore Legal System |publisher=Singapore Academy of Law |date=25 September 2007 |access-date=10 June 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110123145140/http://www.singaporelaw.sg/content/LegalSyst.html |archive-date=23 January 2011}}</ref> Singapore is known for its strict laws and conservative stances on crime; both ] (by ])<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.corpun.com/singfeat.htm |title=Judicial caning in Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei |publisher=World Corporal Punishment Research |date=September 2012 |access-date=12 December 2015 |archive-date=15 January 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150115052445/http://www.corpun.com/singfeat.htm |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Kuntz |first=Tom |title=Ideas & Trends; Beyond Singapore: Corporal Punishment, A to Z |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1994/06/26/weekinreview/ideas-trends-beyond-singapore-corporal-punishment-a-to-z.html?scp=29&sq=%3Fpagewanted%3D1 |date=26 June 1994 |newspaper=The New York Times |access-date=18 February 2017 |archive-date=1 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170701092056/http://www.nytimes.com/1994/06/26/weekinreview/ideas-trends-beyond-singapore-corporal-punishment-a-to-z.html?scp=29&sq=%3Fpagewanted%3D1 |url-status=live}}</ref> and ] (by ]) are retained and commonly used as legal penalties.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1017.html#crime |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20041230204937/http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1017.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=30 December 2004 |title=Singapore country specific information |publisher=U.S. Department of State |date=19 March 2010}}</ref> | |||
Singapore has a highly developed ], which historically revolves around extended ] trade. The economy depends heavily on exports refining imported goods, especially in ]. Manufacturing constitutes 28% of Singapore's ] in 2005.{{Fact|date=April 2007}} The manufacturing industry is well-diversified into ], ], chemicals, ] and ]s manufacturing. Singapore is the busiest port in the world in terms of tonnage shipped. <ref> {{cite web | |||
| url = http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0WDP/is_2006_Jan_17/ai_n16006412 | |||
| title = 2006 shipping figures}} </ref> | |||
The right to freedom of speech and association is guaranteed by ], although there are provisions in the subsequent subsection that regulate them.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Constitution of the Republic of Singapore |website=Singapore Statutes Online |url=https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Act/CONS1963 |access-date=28 May 2020 |archive-date=28 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528030634/https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Act/CONS1963 |url-status=live}}</ref> The government has restricted ] and ] as well as some ] and political rights.<ref>{{cite news |title=The government of Singapore says it welcomes criticism, but its critics still suffer |url=https://www.economist.com/news/asia/21718571-three-protesters-get-stiff-penalties-disturbing-public-order-government-singapore-says-it |date=9 March 2017 |newspaper=The Economist |location=London |access-date=16 April 2019 |archive-date=13 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171013172620/https://www.economist.com/news/asia/21718571-three-protesters-get-stiff-penalties-disturbing-public-order-government-singapore-says-it |url-status=live}}</ref> In 2023, Singapore was ranked 129th out of 180 nations by ] on the global ].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://rsf.org/en/singapore |title=Singapore boasts of being a model of economic development but it is an example of what not to be in regard to freedom of the press, which is almost non-existent. |date=16 June 2023 |publisher=Reporters Without Borders |access-date= 4 October 2023 |archive-date= 11 November 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20191111004954/https://rsf.org/en/singapore |url-status= live}}</ref> ] ranks Singapore as "partly free" in its '']'' report,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Singapore: Freedom in the World 2021 Country Report |url=https://freedomhouse.org/country/singapore/freedom-world/2021 |access-date=17 April 2022 |website=Freedom House |archive-date=28 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220228171300/https://freedomhouse.org/country/singapore/freedom-world/2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="freedomhouse" /> and the ] ranks Singapore as a "flawed democracy", the second freest rank of four, in its "]".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2013/singapore |title=Singapore |publisher=Freedom House |year=2013 |access-date=28 May 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140503011701/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2013/singapore |archive-date=3 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.eiu.com/public/topical_report.aspx?campaignid=democracy2018 |title=Democracy Index 2018: Me Too? |publisher=The Economist Intelligence Unit |location=London |date=8 January 2019 |url-access=registration |access-date=13 January 2019 |archive-date=2 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190202212334/https://www.eiu.com/public/topical_report.aspx?campaignid=Democracy2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> All public gatherings of five or more people require police permits, and protests may legally be held only at the ].<ref>{{cite news |date=17 January 2009 |title=Singapore to toughen protest laws ahead of APEC meet |work=Reuters |url=http://in.reuters.com/article/idINIndia-37501620090117 |access-date=31 July 2012 |archive-date=27 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127041924/https://in.reuters.com/article/idINIndia-37501620090117 |url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
Singapore is the world's fourth largest ] trading centre after ], ] and ].<ref> {{cite web | |||
|url = http://www.mas.gov.sg/annual_report/annual20052006/Index_A/A17_OA&WIP.htm | |||
|title = MAS Annual Report 2005/2006}}</ref> | |||
In the ], which ranks countries by "perceived levels of public sector corruption", Singapore has consistently ranked as one of the least corrupt countries in the world, in spite of being illiberal.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.transparency.org/cpi2018 |title=Corruption Perceptions Index 2018 |date=29 January 2019 |publisher=] |access-date= 27 April 2019 |archive-date= 27 April 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190427092026/https://www.transparency.org/cpi2018 |url-status= dead}}</ref> Singapore's unique combination of a strong, ] government with an emphasis on ] is known as the "Singapore model", and is regarded as a key factor behind Singapore's political stability, economic growth, and harmonious social order.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Ortmann |first1=Stephan |last2=Thompson |first2=Mark R |title=China and the 'Singapore Model' |journal=Journal of Democracy |volume=27 |issue=1 |pages=39–48 |date=January 2016 |url=http://www.journalofdemocracy.org/sites/default/files/Thompson-27-1.pdf |access-date=24 November 2016 |doi=10.1353/jod.2016.0004 |s2cid=155860923 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20161104151140/http://www.journalofdemocracy.org/sites/default/files/Thompson-27-1.pdf |archive-date=4 November 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last=Huff |first=W G |title=What is the Singapore model of economic development? |journal=Cambridge Journal of Economics |volume=19 |pages=735–759 |year=1995 |url=http://cje.oxfordjournals.org/content/19/6/735.full.pdf+html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110214102853/http://cje.oxfordjournals.org/content/19/6/735.full.pdf+html |url-status=dead |archive-date=14 February 2011 |access-date=24 November 2016}}</ref><ref name="thirdworldtofirst">{{Cite book |title=From third world to first: The Singapore story, 1965–2000 |author=Lee Kuan Yew |publisher=Marshall Cavendish International Asia |year=2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=2021 Corruption Perceptions Index – Explore the results |url=https://www.transparency.org/en/cpi/2021 |website=Transparency.org |date=25 January 2022 |access-date=17 February 2022 |archive-date=19 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220619115004/https://www.transparency.org/en/cpi/2021 |url-status=live}}</ref> In 2021, the ]'s Rule of Law Index ranked Singapore as 17th overall among the world's 193 countries for adherence to the ]. Singapore ranked high on the factors of order and security (#3), absence of corruption (#3), regulatory enforcement (#4), civil justice (#8), and criminal justice (#7), and ranked significantly lower on factors of ] (#34), constraints on government powers (#32), and ] (#38).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.worldjusticeproject.org/rule-of-law-index/pdfs/2021-Singapore.pdf |publisher=World Justice Project |title=Rule of Law Index |date=2021 |access-date=28 July 2022 |archive-date=8 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220808020739/https://www.worldjusticeproject.org/rule-of-law-index/pdfs/2021-Singapore.pdf |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
=== Foreign relations === | |||
Along with ], ] and ], Singapore is one of the ]. Singapore has been rated as the most business-friendly economy in the world, with thousands of foreign expatriates working in ]s. <ref>{{cite web | |||
{{Main|Foreign relations of Singapore}} | |||
|url = http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporebusinessnews/view/228852/1/.html | |||
] at the 2017 ] in Germany. Since 2010, Singapore has often been invited to participate in G20 processes.]] | |||
|title = Singapore is ranked first in the Doing Business Report 2006 by World Bank | |||
Singapore's stated foreign policy priority is maintaining security in ] and surrounding territories. An underlying principle is political and economic stability in the region.<ref name="DFAT">{{cite web |url=http://dfat.gov.au/geo/singapore/pages/singapore-country-brief.aspx |title=Singapore country brief |publisher=Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade|access-date=15 November 2016|archive-date=8 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200308165300/https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/singapore/Pages/singapore-country-brief.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> It has diplomatic relations with more than 180 sovereign states.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/missions/singapore_mission/mission_locator.html |title=Singapore Missions Overseas |publisher=Ministry of Foreign Affairs|access-date=27 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180315105110/https://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/missions/singapore_mission/mission_locator.html|archive-date=15 March 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
|publisher = Channel NewsAsia}} </ref> The city-state also employs thousands of foreign workers from around the world. | |||
As one of the five founding members of ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.asean.org/64.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080109233326/http://www.asean.org/64.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=9 January 2008 |title=Overview |publisher=ASEAN |year=2009|access-date=18 February 2011}}</ref> Singapore is a strong supporter of the ] (AFTA) and the ASEAN Investment Area (AIA); it is also the host of the APEC Secretariat.<ref>{{cite web |title=APEC is established |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/4ba73ec1-69e6-4951-b9ea-339878da2f6c |publisher=]|access-date=4 July 2018|archive-date=4 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180704130149/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/4ba73ec1-69e6-4951-b9ea-339878da2f6c|url-status=live}}</ref> Singapore is also a founding member of ], a voluntary and informal grouping at the UN.<ref name="singaporebook">{{Cite book |title=50 Years of Singapore and the United Nations |publisher=World Scientific |isbn=978-981-4713-03-0 |year=2015}}access-date=7 March 2024</ref> | |||
] | |||
In 2001, a ] and slump in the technology sector caused the GDP to contract by 2.2%. The Economic Review Committee (ERC), set up in December 2001, recommended several policy changes with a view to revitalising the economy. Singapore has since recovered from the recession, largely due to improvements in the world economy; the Singaporean economy itself grew by 8.3% in 2004 and 6.4% in 2005.<ref> {{cite web | url = http://app.mti.gov.sg/data/article/1962/doc/ESS_2005Ann_%20PR.pdf | title = Performance of the Singapore Economy in 2005 (PDF), Ministry of Trade and Industry | accessdate = 2006-04-14}} </ref> | |||
Singapore maintains membership in other regional organisations, such as ], the ], the ], and the ].<ref name="DFAT" /> It is also a member of the Non-Aligned Movement,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nam.gov.za/background/members.htm |title=NAM Member States |publisher=The Non-Aligned Movement |date=23 January 2002|access-date=18 February 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101209233514/http://www.nam.gov.za/background/members.htm|archive-date=9 December 2010}}</ref> the ] and the ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thecommonwealth.org/Internal/142227/members/ |title=Member States |publisher=Commonwealth Secretariat|access-date=18 February 2011|archive-date=25 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181225120634/http://www.thecommonwealth.org/member-countries|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Histories and Milestones |url=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/About-MFA/Histories-and-Milestones |website=MFA |access-date=5 October 2019 |archive-date=13 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210813043915/https://www.mfa.gov.sg/About-MFA/Histories-and-Milestones |url-status=live}}</ref> While Singapore is not a formal member of the ], it has been invited to participate in G20 processes in most years since 2010.<ref>{{cite web |title=G20 |url=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/international_organisation_initiatives/g20.html |publisher=Ministry of Foreign Affairs|access-date=26 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180917121540/https://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/international_organisation_initiatives/g20.html|archive-date=17 September 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> Singapore is also the location of the ] (PECC) Secretariat.<ref>{{cite web |title=PECC – PECC :: The Pacific Economic Cooperation Council – International Secretariat |url=https://www.pecc.org/about/pecc-international-secretariat |website=pecc.org|access-date=19 September 2018|archive-date=17 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220217104736/https://www.pecc.org/about/pecc-international-secretariat|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
The per capita GDP in 2005 was US$26,833<ref> {{cite web| title = Per Capita GDP at Current Market Prices | url = http://www.singstat.gov.sg/keystats/hist/gdp.html | publisher = Singapore Department of Statistics| date = 2006-02-16 }} </ref> and the unemployment rate was 2.7% in 2006, with<ref> {{cite news | title = Singapore's employment hits all-time high of 2.3 m in 2005 | author= May Wong | publisher = Channel NewsAsia | date = 1 February 2006 | url = http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporebusinessnews/view/191175/1/.html }}</ref> 173,000 new jobs being created in 2006, a record high. The economy grew by 7.9% in 2006.<ref> {{cite news | title = Singapore's economy grows by 7.7% in 2006 | author= Dominique Loh | publisher = Channel NewsAsia | date = ] ] | url = http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/250028/1/.html}}</ref> | |||
In general, bilateral relations with other ASEAN members are strong; however, disagreements have arisen,<ref name="govt.nz">{{cite web |url=http://www.asean.fta.govt.nz/singapore-foreign-relations|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090802111923/http://www.asean.fta.govt.nz/singapore-foreign-relations|url-status=dead|archive-date=2 August 2009 |title=Australia – New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA) |publisher=New Zealand Government |date=4 December 2008|access-date=18 February 2011}}</ref> and relations with neighbouring ] and ] have sometimes been strained.<ref name="Rocky">{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/174284.stm |title=Malaysia and Singapore: A rocky relationship |publisher=BBC News |date=18 September 1998 |first=Rob |last=Gifford|access-date=10 April 2011|archive-date=12 May 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110512052729/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/174284.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> Malaysia and Singapore have clashed over the delivery of ] to Singapore,<ref name="Disputes">{{cite web |url=https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/fields/2070.html |title=World Factbook – Field Listing: International disputes |publisher=Central Intelligence Agency|access-date=18 February 2011|archive-date=14 May 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110514215411/https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/fields/2070.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> and access by the ] to Malaysian airspace.<ref name="Rocky" /> Border issues exist with Malaysia and Indonesia, and both have banned the sale of marine sand to Singapore over disputes about Singapore's land reclamation.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article1527751.ece |title=Singapore accused of land grab as islands disappear by boatload |first=Richard |last=Lloyd Parry |work=The Times |location=London |date=17 March 2007|url-access=subscription|access-date=10 April 2011|archive-date=10 May 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110510021433/http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article1527751.ece|url-status=dead}}</ref> Some previous disputes, such as the ], have been resolved by the ].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7416473.stm |title=Court awards islet to Singapore |publisher=BBC News |date=23 May 2008|access-date=6 September 2017|archive-date=26 May 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080526023618/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7416473.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> Piracy in the ] has been a cause of concern for all three countries.<ref name="Disputes" /> Close economic ties exist with ], and the two share a pegged currency value, through a Currency Interchangeability Agreement between the two countries which makes both ] and ] banknotes and coins legal tender in either country.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mas.gov.sg/currency/currency-interchangeability-agreement-with-brunei.aspx |title=Currency Interchangeability Agreement – Brunei Notes and Coins |author=Reading Room|access-date=14 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170628004840/http://www.mas.gov.sg/Currency/Currency-Interchangeability-Agreement-with-Brunei.aspx|archive-date=28 June 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.asean.fta.govt.nz/brunei-foreign-and-trade|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090908043151/http://asean.fta.govt.nz/brunei-foreign-and-trade/|url-status=dead|archive-date=8 September 2009 |title=Brunei Foreign and Trade Relations: ASEAN |publisher=New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade |date=14 January 2009|access-date=18 February 2011}}</ref> | |||
In the first quarter of Year 2007, the economy grew by 6.1% and in the second quarter economic growth was estimated at 8.2%. The economy is expected to expand by 6.0% and 6.2% in the third and fourth quarters of Year 2007 respectively. <ref> {{cite news | title = GDP growth expected to hit 6.1% in Q2 | author= so | publisher = Channel NewsAsia | date = 12 June 2007 | url = http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/281710/1/.html }}</ref> In Year 2008, economists expects economic growth to be around 5.8%. | |||
The first ] was made in the 1970s, with full diplomatic relations established in the 1990s. China has been Singapore's largest trading partner since 2013, after surpassing Malaysia.<ref>{{cite news |title=Singapore Business Federation aims for over 100 local firms to take part in first China International Import Expo |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/business/economy/sbf-to-lead-singapore-companies-taking-part-in-first-china-international-import |work=The Straits Times |date=22 February 2018|access-date=24 February 2018|archive-date=24 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224024854/http://www.straitstimes.com/business/economy/sbf-to-lead-singapore-companies-taking-part-in-first-china-international-import|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Singapore, China leaders laud deep, growing ties |url=http://www.todayonline.com/chinaindia/china/singapore-china-leaders-laud-deep-growing-ties |work=Today |location=Singapore|access-date=24 February 2018|archive-date=25 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180225064808/http://www.todayonline.com/chinaindia/china/singapore-china-leaders-laud-deep-growing-ties|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Singapore and China's common interest 'greater than any occasional difference of views': DPM Teo |url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-and-china-s-common-interest-greater-than-any-8878812 |date=24 May 2017 |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |location=Singapore|access-date=24 February 2018|archive-date=25 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180225144654/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-and-china-s-common-interest-greater-than-any-8878812|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Singapore a 'strong supporter' of China's peaceful development |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/spore-a-strong-supporter-of-chinas-peaceful-development |work=The Straits Times |date=25 May 2017 |location=Singapore|access-date=24 February 2018|archive-date=24 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224192152/http://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/spore-a-strong-supporter-of-chinas-peaceful-development|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author=Zhang Xuegang |url=http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/90001/90780/91342/6306042.html |title=Opening 'window of opportunity' for China-Singapore cooperation |newspaper=People's Daily |location=Beijing |date=20 November 2007|access-date=31 July 2012|archive-date=6 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130806190236/http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/90001/90780/91342/6306042.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Singapore and the ] share a long-standing close relationship, in particular in defence, the economy, health, and education. Singapore has also increased co-operation with ASEAN members and China to strengthen regional security and fight terrorism, and participated in ASEAN's first joint maritime exercise with China in 2018.<ref>{{cite news |title=Asean to step up terror fight, hold naval drill with China |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/asean-to-step-up-terror-fight-hold-naval-drill-with-china |work=The Straits Times |date=7 February 2018|access-date=24 February 2018|archive-date=24 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224173554/http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/asean-to-step-up-terror-fight-hold-naval-drill-with-china|url-status=live}}</ref> It has also given support to the US-led coalition to fight terrorism, with bilateral co-operation in counter-terrorism and counter-proliferation initiatives, and joint military exercises.<ref name="govt.nz" /> | |||
As the economy grew at a much faster pace than expected, the government raised the economic growth forecast to 5%-7% instead of the initial 3%-5% for the full year. <ref> {{cite news | title = Singapore's GDP forecast revised upwards | author= AFP/yy | publisher = Channel NewsAsia | date = 21 May 2007 | url = http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporebusinessnews/view/277393/1/.html }}</ref> On ] ], some economists has cited that the government may raise the economic growth forecast for the whole year once again to 6.5%-8% as the economy did extremely well in the second quarter of the year. Finance Minister Lee Hsien Loong also had said in an interview in April 2007 that Singapore's economy is expected to grow by at least 5% for the next 5 years. | |||
As Singapore has diplomatic relations with both the United States and ], and was one of the few countries that have relationships with both countries,<ref>{{cite news |last=Lee |first=Yen Nee |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2018/06/08/why-trump-and-kim-picked-singapore-for-meeting.html |title=White House explains why it chose Singapore to host summit with North Korea |publisher=CNBC |date=8 June 2018|access-date=12 June 2018|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612095227/https://www.cnbc.com/2018/06/08/why-trump-and-kim-picked-singapore-for-meeting.html|url-status=live}}</ref> in June 2018, it hosted ] between US President ] and ] ], the first-ever meeting between the sitting leaders of the two nations.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.cnn.com/politics/live-news/trump-kim-jong-un-meeting-summit/ |title=President Trump meets Kim Jong Un: Live updates |date=11 June 2018|access-date=12 June 2018 |publisher=CNN|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612032648/https://www.cnn.com/politics/live-news/trump-kim-jong-un-meeting-summit/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-44435035 |title=Trump and Kim make history with a handshake |date=12 June 2018 |publisher=BBC News|access-date=12 June 2018|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612000737/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-44435035|url-status=live}}</ref> It also hosted the ] in 2015, the first meeting between the political leaders of the two sides of the ] since the end of the ] in 1950.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Yin |first1=Chun-chieh |last2=Lee |first2=Mei-yu |title=Ma, Xi to split dinner bill in Singapore |url=http://focustaiwan.tw/news/acs/201511040053.aspx|access-date=7 November 2015 |agency=Central News Agency |date=4 November 2015|archive-date=7 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151107003747/http://focustaiwan.tw/news/acs/201511040053.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Lee |first1=Shu-hua |last2=Chang |first2=S.C |title=President Ma to meet China's Xi in Singapore Saturday (update) |url=http://focustaiwan.tw/news/afav/201511040001.aspx|access-date=4 November 2015 |agency=Central News Agency|archive-date=7 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151107010003/http://focustaiwan.tw/news/afav/201511040001.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Perlez |first1=Jane |last2=Ramzy |first2=Austin |title=China, Taiwan and a Meeting After 66 Years |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/04/world/asia/leaders-of-china-and-taiwan-to-meet-for-first-time-since-1949.html?_r=0|access-date=1 November 2017 |work=] |date=4 November 2015|archive-date=7 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107043747/https://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/04/world/asia/leaders-of-china-and-taiwan-to-meet-for-first-time-since-1949.html?_r=0|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
] | |||
Singapore introduced a ] (GST) with an initial rate of 3% on ] ] substantially increasing government revenue by $1.6 billion and stabilizing government finances.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mof.gov.sg/budget_1996/revenue.html|title=FY 1996 Budget, Revenue And Tax Changes|accessdate=2006-05-01}}</ref> The taxable GST was increased to 4% in 2003 and to 5% in 2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://app.feedback.gov.sg/asp/pol/pol01d1.asp?id=172|title=Policy Digest: Phased GST increase|accessdate=2006-04-26|year=], ]}}</ref> The GST was further increased to 7% on 1st July 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/specialreport/news/258757_26/1/.html|title=GST rate to rise to 7% from July 1|accessdate=2007-02-15}}</ref> To help Singaporeans cope with the GST tax increase, the government has introduced the GST Offset Package (similar to the Progress Package given out last year) on ] ]. Each citizen would be able to receive an amount of between S$150- S$1,000, depending on the individual salary. A few supermarkets ] the cost of the GST increase for selected products on a temporary basis. | |||
=== Military === | |||
Singapore is a popular travel destination, making ] one of its largest industries. About 9.7 million tourists visited Singapore in 2006.<ref> {{cite web | title = Record Year As Tourism Exceeds 2006 Targets With S$12.4 Billion Tourism Receipts And 9.7 Million Visitor Arrivals | url = http://app.stb.com.sg/asp/new/new03a.asp?id=6243 | publisher = ] | accessdate = 2007-04-21 }} </ref> The Singaporean government hopes to have at least 17 million visitor arrivals by 2015. The ] district is the centre of shopping hub in Singapore. To attract more tourists, the government decided in 2005 to legalise ] and to allow two ]s to be developed at ] and Sentosa.<ref> {{cite web| title = Proposal to develop Integrated Resorts - Ministerial Statement by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on 18 April 2005| url = http://www.channelnewsasia.com/casino/text_pmlee.htm | |||
{{Main|Singapore Armed Forces}} | |||
|publisher = Channel NewsAsia }} </ref> Other than the Integrated Resort, about 15 new developments are coming up, which include the ], which would be the largest ferris wheel in the world, the ] and a 280-metre Double Helix Bridge connecting tourist attractions in and around Marina Bay. Cuisine has been heavily promoted as an attraction for ]s, with the ] in July organized annually to celebrate Singapore's cuisine. In 2008, Formula One racing will return when the ] will resume, having not been held since 1972. The circuit will be the first night-time race in Formula One's history. | |||
] | |||
The Singaporean military, arguably the most technologically advanced in Southeast Asia,<ref name=janes-20100118>{{cite news |url=http://www.janes.com/news/defence/jdw/jdw100118_2_n.shtml|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100123194946/http://www.janes.com/news/defence/jdw/jdw100118_2_n.shtml|url-status=dead|archive-date=23 January 2010 |first=Trefor |last=Moss |date=18 January 2010 |title=Buying an advantage |location=London |work=Jane's Defence Review}}</ref> consists of the ], the ], the ] and the ]. It is seen as the guarantor of the country's independence,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/285586/1/.html |title=SAF remains final guarantor of Singapore's independence |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |location=Singapore |date=1 July 2007|access-date=19 February 2011|archive-date=16 May 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110516092109/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/285586/1/.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> translating into Singapore culture, involving all citizens in the country's defence.<ref name="MindefApr2005">{{cite press release |url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2005/apr/21apr05_nr2.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071024173928/http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2005/apr/21apr05_nr2.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=24 October 2007 |title=Lunch Talk on "Defending Singapore: Strategies for a Small State" by Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean |publisher=Ministry of Defence |date=21 April 2005|access-date=19 February 2011}}</ref> The government spent 2.7% of the country's GDP on the military in 2024, the highest in the region.<ref>{{Cite journal |year=2024 |title=International Comparisons of Defence Expenditure and Military Personnel |url=https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/04597222.2024.2298600 |journal=The Military Balance |language=en |volume=124 |issue=1 |pages=542–547 |doi=10.1080/04597222.2024.2298600 |issn=0459-7222 |access-date=21 October 2024 |archive-date=15 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240315180704/https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/04597222.2024.2298600 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
After its independence, Singapore had only two ] regiments commanded by British officers. Considered too small to provide effective security for the new country, the development of its military forces became a priority.<ref name="cs.uwec">{{cite web |url=http://cs.uwec.edu/~tan/saf_israel.htm |first=Amnon |last=Barzilai |title=A Deep, Dark, Secret Love Affair |via=University of Wisconsin |publisher=] |date=July 2004|access-date=19 February 2011|archive-date=3 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170503151338/http://cs.uwec.edu/~tan/saf_israel.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref> In addition, in October 1971, Britain pulled its military out of Singapore, leaving behind only a small British, Australian and New Zealand force as a token military presence.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://infopedia.nl.sg/articles/SIP_1001_2009-02-10.html |title=British withdrawal from Singapore |last1=Omar |first1=Marsita |author2=Chan Fook Weng |publisher=National Library Board |date=31 December 2007|access-date=24 August 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120621034333/http://infopedia.nl.sg/articles/SIP_1001_2009-02-10.html|archive-date=21 June 2012}}</ref> A great deal of initial support came from ],<ref name="cs.uwec" /> a country unrecognised by Singapore's neighbouring ] nations of Malaysia and Indonesia.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/5262490.stm |title=Israel alarm at UN force members |publisher=BBC News|access-date=12 October 2011 |date=18 August 2006|archive-date=10 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170710063850/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/5262490.stm|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://geography.about.com/od/politicalgeography/a/israeldiplomacy.htm |title=Diplomatic and Foreign Relations of Israel |last=Rosenberg |first=Matt |publisher=About.com|access-date=12 October 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120115055734/http://geography.about.com/od/politicalgeography/a/israeldiplomacy.htm|archive-date=15 January 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/14324943.stm |title=Malaysian FA apologises to Benayoun over racist abuse |publisher=BBC News|access-date=12 October 2011 |date=29 July 2011|archive-date=22 September 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110922150051/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/14324943.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> The ] (IDF) commanders were tasked by the Singapore Government to create the ] (SAF) from scratch, and Israeli instructors were brought in to train Singaporean soldiers. Military courses were conducted according to the IDF's format, and Singapore adopted a system of conscription and reserve service based on the ].<ref name="cs.uwec" /> Singapore still maintains strong security ties with Israel and is one of the biggest buyers of Israeli arms and weapons systems,<ref>{{cite encyclopedia |title=Jewish Virtual History Tour: Singapore |url=https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/vjw/singapore.html |encyclopedia=Jewish Virtual Library |date=n.d.|access-date=13 October 2011|archive-date=21 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111021022601/http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/vjw/singapore.html|url-status=live}}</ref> with one recent example being the ] anti-tank weapon.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.palestine-studies.org/files/pdf/jps/10341.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110928203037/http://www.palestine-studies.org/files/pdf/jps/10341.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=28 September 2011 |page=186 |title=The Israeli Arsenal Deployed Against Gaza During Operation Cast Lead |publisher=]|access-date=10 July 2012}}</ref> | |||
To compete with its many rivals such as Hong Kong, Tokyo and Shanghai, the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Singapore has announced that the city would be transformed into a more vibrant and exciting place with more buzz by lighting up the city completely. The purpose of this is to attract more tourists. | |||
The SAF is being developed to respond to a wide range of issues in both conventional and unconventional warfare. The ] (DSTA) is responsible for procuring resources for the military.<ref name="Mindef18Feb2008">{{cite press release |url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/resources/speeches/2008/18feb08_speech2.html |title=Speech by Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen |publisher=Ministry of Defence |date=18 February 2008|access-date=19 February 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170706061748/https://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/resources/speeches/2008/18feb08_speech2.html|archive-date=6 July 2017}}</ref> The geographic restrictions of Singapore mean that the SAF must plan to fully repulse an attack, as they cannot fall back and re-group. The small size of the population has also affected the way the SAF has been designed, with a small active force and a large number of reserves.<ref name="MindefApr2005" /> | |||
==Military== | |||
{{main|Military of Singapore|Total Defence}} | |||
] of |
] ] perform at the Singapore Air Show.]] | ||
Singapore has ] for all able-bodied males at age 18, except those with a criminal record or who can prove that their loss would bring hardship to their families. Males who have yet to complete pre-university education, are awarded the ] (PSC) scholarship, or are pursuing a local medical degree can opt to defer their draft.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.ifaq.gov.sg/psc/apps/fcd_faqmain.aspx?qst=hRhkP9BzcBImsx2TBbssMsxu7lqt6UJK70a1wAEVmyfJ/9fD+N3Xh91Jn0PApSDm/aN8CquE8nH1geMJKOWjpzbUjH0AmXCKue8129xmykRnvPWRXqhAiqq/p2+DIk7rwqacOZ24JcT155e21ebq4c96ux0/vPsuSqtx7Jz7a2+iWlOIPE0B7hwtjPk5NBv45Vo1MFXlZX+doyOmGlWEaFaxh9f9AbES12gldHviYxg=#FAQ_34230 |title=PSC – FAQs |website=ifaq.gov.sg|access-date=11 August 2018|archive-date=11 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180811133352/http://www.ifaq.gov.sg/psc/apps/fcd_faqmain.aspx?qst=hRhkP9BzcBImsx2TBbssMsxu7lqt6UJK70a1wAEVmyfJ/9fD+N3Xh91Jn0PApSDm/aN8CquE8nH1geMJKOWjpzbUjH0AmXCKue8129xmykRnvPWRXqhAiqq/p2+DIk7rwqacOZ24JcT155e21ebq4c96ux0/vPsuSqtx7Jz7a2+iWlOIPE0B7hwtjPk5NBv45Vo1MFXlZX+doyOmGlWEaFaxh9f9AbES12gldHviYxg=#FAQ_34230|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite conference |url=https://sprs.parl.gov.sg/search/email/link/?id=008_20111020_S0007_T0005&fullContentFlag=false |title=Deferment of National Service for Medical Studies |date=20 October 2011 |pages=341–345 |conference=Singapore Parliament |access-date=6 July 2022 |archive-date=12 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220812050022/https://sprs.parl.gov.sg/search/email/link/?id=008_20111020_S0007_T0005&fullContentFlag=false |url-status=live}}</ref> Though not required to perform military service, the number of women in the SAF has been increasing: since 1989 they have been allowed to fill military vocations formerly reserved for men. Before induction into a specific branch of the armed forces, recruits undergo at least nine weeks of basic military training.<ref name="country-data">{{cite web |url=http://www.country-data.com/cgi-bin/query/r-11917.html |title=Singapore – Recruitment and Training of Personnel |publisher=Country-data.com |date=December 1989|access-date=19 February 2011|archive-date=30 September 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070930170849/http://www.country-data.com/cgi-bin/query/r-11917.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
The ] of Singapore serves primarily as a deterrent to potential invaders of the island as well as to frequently provide humanitarian assistance to other countries including Indonesia and the United States. Singapore has mutual defence pacts with several countries, most notably the ]. The country subscribes to a philosophy of ], which identifies five aspects of a holistic national defence. | |||
Because of the scarcity of open land on the main island, training involving activities such as live firing and ] are often carried out on smaller islands, typically barred to civilian access. However, large-scale drills, considered too dangerous to be performed in the country, have been performed in other countries such as Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand and the United States. In general, military exercises are held with foreign forces once or twice per week.<ref name="MindefApr2005" /> Due to airspace and land constraints, the ] (RSAF) maintains a number of overseas bases in ], the ], and ]. The RSAF's 130 Squadron is based in ], ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.airforce.gov.au/bases/pearce.aspx |publisher=] |title=RAAF Base Pearce|access-date=12 October 2011 |year=2011|archive-date=23 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120623043012/http://www.airforce.gov.au/bases/Pearce.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> and its ] is based in the ], ].<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/1999/aug/20aug99_nr.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060313052830/http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/1999/aug/20aug99_nr.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=13 March 2006 |title=Opening Ceremony of the RSAF Helicopter Detachment in Oakey, Australia|access-date=5 July 2013 |date=20 August 1999 |publisher=Ministry of Defence}}</ref> The RSAF has one squadron—the 150 Squadron—based in ] in southern France.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/cyberpioneer/backissuessep1.htm |title=Beyond Limits – Jet Training in France|access-date=12 October 2011 |year=2011 |publisher=Ministry of Defence|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070625180014/http://www.mindef.gov.sg/cyberpioneer/backissuessep1.htm|archive-date=25 June 2007}}</ref> The RSAF's overseas detachments in the United States are: ] in ], ] in Arizona, ] in ], and ] in ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.acc.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123178824|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114033730/http://www.acc.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123178824|url-status=dead|archive-date=14 November 2012 |title=Singapore celebrates Peace Carvin V partnership with U.S. Air Force|access-date=5 July 2013 |date=23 November 2009 |last=Reif |first=Jasmine |publisher=U.S. Air Combat Command}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://160.96.2.142/content/pmosite/mediacentre/inthenews/primeminister/2010/July/pm_gets_feel_of_rsafsnewjetatusbase.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130705185326/http://160.96.2.142/content/pmosite/mediacentre/inthenews/primeminister/2010/July/pm_gets_feel_of_rsafsnewjetatusbase.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 July 2013 |title=PM gets feel of RSAF's new jet at US base|access-date=5 July 2013 |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=13 July 2010 |author=Chua Chin Hon}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Yong |first=Charissa |date=7 December 2019 |title=Singapore and United States sign pact to set up RSAF fighter training detachment in Guam |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-and-united-states-sign-pact-to-set-up-rsaf-fighter-training-detachment-in-guam |access-date=18 February 2021 |website=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |archive-date=14 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210214045849/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-and-united-states-sign-pact-to-set-up-rsaf-fighter-training-detachment-in-guam |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
The military of Singapore includes the ], the ], and the ], collectively known as the ] (SAF). The ] (MINDEF) oversees its functioning, with some private companies also playing a supporting role. Singapore requires that all males from 18 to 40 years of age (50 for commissioned officers), except those with certain medical or other exemptions, to become ]s after completing mandatory ] duty. | |||
The SAF has sent forces to assist in operations outside the country, in areas such as ],<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.singapore-window.org/sw03/031027af.htm |title=Singapore to send 192 military personnel to Iraq |work=Singapore Window |agency=Agence France-Presse |date=7 October 2003 |access-date=19 February 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080906155446/http://www.singapore-window.org/sw03/031027af.htm |archive-date=6 September 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and ],<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/75-saf-soldiers-honoured-for-contributions-in-fight-against-isis |title=75 SAF soldiers honoured for contributions in fight against ISIS |date=9 October 2017 |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |access-date=17 August 2018 |archive-date=6 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180706132449/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/75-saf-soldiers-honoured-for-contributions-in-fight-against-isis |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/276527/1/.html |title=SAF to provide medical aid, set up dental clinic in Afghanistan |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |location=Singapore |date=16 May 2007 |access-date=19 February 2011 |archive-date=8 December 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081208212623/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/276527/1/.html |url-status=dead}}</ref> in both military and civilian roles. In the region, they have helped to stabilise ]<ref>{{cite press release |author=<!--Not stated--> |title=Official Visit by Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, 23 to 27 July |url=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements-Transcripts-and-Photos/2023/07/FM-Visit-Timor-Leste#:~:text=Singapore%20was%20amongst%20the%20first,the%20East%20Timor%20Police%20Service. |location=Singapore |publisher=Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore |date=24 July 2023 |access-date=20 November 2024 |archive-date=3 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231203040654/https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements-Transcripts-and-Photos/2023/07/FM-Visit-Timor-Leste#:~:text=Singapore%20was%20amongst%20the%20first,the%20East%20Timor%20Police%20Service. |url-status=live }}</ref> and have provided aid to ] in Indonesia following the ].<ref>{{cite report |first1=Sharon |last1=Wiharta |first2=Hassan |last2=Ahmad |first3=Jean-Yves |last3=Halne |first4=Josefina |last4=Löfgren |first5=Tim |last5=Randall |year=2008 |chapter=Case study: Indian Ocean tsunami, Aceh province, Indonesia, 2004 |url=https://www.sipri.org/sites/default/files/files/misc/FMA/SIPRI08FMA.pdf |title=The Effectiveness of Foreign Military Assets in Natural Disaster Response |publisher=Stockholm International Peace Research Institute |pages=87–99 |isbn=978-91-85114-57-3 |access-date=20 November 2024}}</ref> Since 2009, the ] (RSN) has deployed ships to the ] to aid in countering ] efforts as part of ].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Chow |first1=Jermyn |title=Singapore sends 151 servicemen to join anti-piracy patrols in Gulf of Aden |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-sends-151-servicemen-to-join-anti-piracy-patrols-in-gulf-of-aden |access-date=5 December 2020 |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=17 March 2014 |archive-date=10 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180710191320/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-sends-151-servicemen-to-join-anti-piracy-patrols-in-gulf-of-aden |url-status=live}}</ref> The SAF also helped in relief efforts during ],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/mindef_websites/topics/katrina.html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20051025202249/http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/mindef_websites/topics/katrina.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=25 October 2005 |title=Katrina Relief Operations |access-date=12 October 2011 |year=2011 |publisher=Ministry of Defence}}</ref> and ].<ref>{{cite news |title=RSAF C-130 arrives in Cebu to assist relief efforts |url=https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/rsaf-c-130-arrives-cebu-assist-relief-efforts |access-date=5 December 2020 |work=Today |location=Singapore |date=14 November 2013 |archive-date=14 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210414153225/https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/rsaf-c-130-arrives-cebu-assist-relief-efforts |url-status=live}}</ref> Singapore is part of the ] (FPDA), a military alliance with Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.<ref name="MindefApr2005" /> According to the 2024 ], Singapore is the 5th most peaceful country in the world.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2024 Global Peace Index |url=https://www.economicsandpeace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/GPI-2024-web.pdf |access-date=11 August 2024 |archive-date=19 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819091540/https://www.economicsandpeace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/GPI-2024-web.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
The recent rise in ] and ] has cast increasing emphasis on the non-military aspects of defence. The ], part of the ], is also a ] force. In 1991, the hijacking of ] ended in the storming of the aircraft and the subsequent deaths of all four hijackers. A current concern is ], a militant Islamic group whose plan to ] the Australian High Commission was ultimately foiled in 2001. | |||
=== Human rights === | |||
Singapore's defence resources have been used in international ] aid missions, including ] assignments in ], ] and ],<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/peacekeepers/peacekeepers.htm | title=Peacekeepers :: In the Service of Peace | accessdate=2006-05-01}}</ref> and participating in the ].<ref>{{cite news | title = Singapore to send 192 military personnel to Iraq | url = http://www.singapore-window.org/sw03/031027af.htm |date = ], ]|publisher = Agence France Presse}}</ref> | |||
{{Main|Human rights in Singapore}} | |||
{{See also|Abortion in Singapore|Capital punishment in Singapore|LGBT rights in Singapore}} | |||
] is a legal and enforced penalty in Singapore. The country is ] in the ] to retain the death penalty, along with the ], ] and ]. Particularly, its ] has been a source of contention with ] such as ] and ].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/11/singapore-imminent-unlawful-execution-for-drug-trafficking-must-be-halted/ |title=Singapore: Imminent unlawful execution for drug trafficking must be halted |date=20 November 2024 |publisher=Amnesty International |access-date=20 November 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/10/09/singapore-moves-further-out-step-death-penalty |title=Singapore Moves Further Out of Step on Death Penalty |last=Newton |first=Robbie |date=9 October 2024 |publisher=Human Rights Watch |access-date=20 November 2024 |archive-date=9 October 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241009233958/https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/10/09/singapore-moves-further-out-step-death-penalty |url-status=live }}</ref> The government has responded that it has "no doubts" that it is the right policy and that there is "clear evidence" of ], and that the law should be looked at upon in the wider context of "saving lives", particularly citizens.<ref>{{cite news |title=No doubts that death penalty is the right policy for drug trafficking: Shanmugam |url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/no-doubts-death-penalty-right-policy-drug-trafficking-shanmugam-2776746 |website=CNA |access-date=30 June 2022 |date=30 June 2022 |archive-date=30 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220630043613/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/no-doubts-death-penalty-right-policy-drug-trafficking-shanmugam-2776746 |url-status=live}}</ref> In 2004, ] claimed that some legal provisions of the Singapore system for the death penalty conflict with "the right to be ] until proven guilty".<ref name="amnesty">{{cite web |url=https://www.amnesty.org/en/library/info/ASA36/001/2004&lang=e |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120113025257/http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/info/ASA36/001/2004%26lang%3De |url-status=dead |archive-date=13 January 2012 |title=Singapore: The death penalty – A hidden toll of executions |publisher=Amnesty International |year=2003 |access-date=1 May 2011}}</ref> The government has disputed Amnesty's claims, stating that their "position on abolition of the death penalty is by no means uncontested internationally" and that the report contains "grave errors of facts and misrepresentations".<ref name=response>{{cite press release |title=The Singapore Government's Response To Amnesty International's Report 'Singapore – The Death Penalty: A Hidden Toll Of Executions' |publisher=] |url=http://www.mha.gov.sg/basic_content.aspx?pageid=74 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20071114130039/http://www.mha.gov.sg/basic_content.aspx?pageid=74 |url-status=dead |archive-date=14 November 2007 |date=30 January 2004 |access-date=22 April 2010}}</ref> | |||
From 1938 to 2023, sexual relations between men were technically illegal under ], first introduced during British colonial rule.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/government-has-not-curbed-public-prosecutors-discretion-for-section-377a-ag |title=Government has not curbed public prosecutor's discretion for Section 377A: A-G Lucien Wong |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=2 October 2018 |last=Wong |first=Jonathan |access-date=12 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181004145050/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/government-has-not-curbed-public-prosecutors-discretion-for-section-377a-ag |archive-date=4 October 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> During the last few decades, this law was mostly unenforced and pressure to repeal it increased as homosexuality became more accepted by Singaporean society.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/court-of-appeal-rules-section-377a-stays-but-cannot-be-used-to-prosecute-men-for-having-gay-sex |title=Court of Appeal rules Section 377A stays but cannot be used to prosecute men for having gay sex |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |first=Selina |last=Lum |date=28 February 2022 |access-date=30 June 2022 |archive-date=30 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220630120101/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/court-of-appeal-rules-section-377a-stays-but-cannot-be-used-to-prosecute-men-for-having-gay-sex |url-status=live}}</ref> Meanwhile, sexual relations between women had always been legal.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/government-has-not-curbed-public-prosecutors-discretion-for-section-377a-ag |title=Government has not curbed public prosecutor's discretion for Section 377A: A-G Lucien Wong |work=The Straits Times |date=2 October 2018 |last=Wong |first=Jonathan|access-date=16 April 2019|archive-date=4 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181004145050/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/government-has-not-curbed-public-prosecutors-discretion-for-section-377a-ag|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2022, Prime Minister ] announced that Singapore would repeal 377A, effectively decriminalising homosexual behaviour. Nevertheless, he added that the repeal will not affect the recognition of "traditional familial and societal norms," including how marriage is defined, leaving the legal status of ] unchanged for the time, although the possibility of ] was not officially ruled out.<ref>{{cite news |date=21 August 2022 |title=Singapore to decriminalize gay sex, but will limit change |url=https://apnews.com/article/gay-rights-constitutions-marriage-singapore-lee-hsien-loong-6ab5c85aa54c509a2115c05dc6682628 |access-date=21 August 2022 |publisher=Associated Press |archive-date=21 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220821160041/https://apnews.com/article/gay-rights-constitutions-marriage-singapore-lee-hsien-loong-6ab5c85aa54c509a2115c05dc6682628 |url-status=live}}</ref> Lee described this as a compromise between the ] (and often religious) and ] elements of Singaporean society to prevent further political fracturing.<ref>{{cite news |date=21 August 2022 |title=377A: Singapore to end ban on gay sex |language=en-GB |publisher=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-62545577 |access-date=21 August 2022 |archive-date=21 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220821130914/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-62545577 |url-status=live}}</ref> The law was officially repealed on 3 January 2023.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Han |first=Goh Yan |date=3 January 2023 |title=S377A officially repealed after President Halimah gives assent to Bill |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/s377a-officially-repealed-as-president-assents-to-changes-to-legislation |access-date=27 January 2024 |work=The Straits Times |language=en |issn=0585-3923 |archive-date=25 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230725103316/http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/s377a-officially-repealed-as-president-assents-to-changes-to-legislation |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
==Demographics== | |||
===Population=== | |||
], an event held in support of the ] community, has drawn thousands of people annually since 2009 with increasing attendance.<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 June 2020 |title=Views of Homosexuality Around the World |url=https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2020/06/25/global-divide-on-homosexuality-persists/ |access-date=12 July 2021 |website=Pew Research Center's Global Attitudes Project |archive-date=1 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220701105248/https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2020/06/25/global-divide-on-homosexuality-persists/ |url-status=live}}</ref> According to a survey conducted by the ] in 2019, Singaporean society has become more ] on LGBT rights. In the survey, more than 20% of people said that sexual relations between adults of the same sex were not wrong at all or not wrong most of the time, up from 10% in 2013. The survey found that 27% felt the same way about same-sex marriage (an increase from 15% in 2013) and 30% did so about same-sex couples adopting a child (an increase from 24% in 2013).<ref>{{cite news |date=3 May 2019 |title=Greater public acceptance of gay sex and marriage: Survey |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/greater-public-acceptance-of-gay-sex-and-marriage-survey |url-status=live |access-date=12 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190605181541/https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/greater-public-acceptance-of-gay-sex-and-marriage-survey |archive-date=5 June 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Yuen-C |first=Tham |date=2 May 2019 |title=Singapore society still largely conservative but becoming more liberal on gay rights: IPS survey |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/singapore-society-still-largely-conservative-but-becoming-more-liberal-on-gay-rights-ips |url-status=live |access-date=12 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190605181337/https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/singapore-society-still-largely-conservative-but-becoming-more-liberal-on-gay-rights-ips |archive-date=5 June 2019}}</ref> In 2021, six Singaporeans protested for improved ] protections in the educational system outside the ] headquarters at ].<ref name="TR2021">{{cite news |last1=Shiying |first1=Wong |date=30 November 2021 |title=Six given police warnings for involvement in protest outside MOE headquarters |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/six-given-police-warnings-for-involvement-in-protest-outside-moe-headquarters |access-date=28 June 2022 |archive-date=28 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220628213457/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/six-given-police-warnings-for-involvement-in-protest-outside-moe-headquarters |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
] is the largest Hindu ] in Singapore. It is also one of the many religious buildings marked as ] for their historical value.]] | |||
{{main|Demographics of Singapore|Religion in Singapore}} | |||
Singapore is the second-] in the world, not including ] and ], which are parts of the ]. While the total population living in Singapore as of June 2006 is about 4.5 million, official demographic breakdowns and statistical analysis are only released for the 3.6 million who are ] and ]s (termed 'Singapore Residents'). | |||
] often ] women from neighbouring countries such as ], ] and ] at their ] as well as rented ]s and ] for higher profit margins when they get a cut from customers.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/how-14-year-old-girl-was-trafficked-singapore-and-locked |title=How a 14-year-old girl was trafficked to Singapore and locked up |date=2017 |website=Asia One|access-date=12 April 2020|archive-date=12 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412141723/https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/how-14-year-old-girl-was-trafficked-singapore-and-locked|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/trafficking-singapore-labour-crime-boat-quay-justice-victims-12423400 |title='She had lost all reason to live': Undoing the horrors of being trafficked to Singapore and seeking justice |date=15 February 2020 |website=cna|access-date=12 April 2020|archive-date=12 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412163911/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/trafficking-singapore-labour-crime-boat-quay-justice-victims-12423400|url-status=live}}</ref> In response, amendments were made to the ] by the government in 2019 to legislate more serious punishments for traffickers, including imprisonment of up to seven years and a fine of S$100,000.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/prostitution-sex-work-human-trafficking-singapore-womens-charter-12061526 |title=Sex trafficking in Singapore: How changes to the law may protect women duped into prostitution |date=10 November 2019 |website=CNA|access-date=12 April 2020|archive-date=12 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412142127/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/prostitution-sex-work-human-trafficking-singapore-womens-charter-12061526|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
After two decades of a successful ] policy, Singapore is now facing the threat of an ] with declining ]s. The government is encouraging Singaporeans to have more children through the provision of financial incentives for the first to fourth child of each family.<ref> {{cite web| title = Baby Bonus | url = http://www.babybonus.gov.sg | publisher = Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports | accessdate = 2006-04-14 }} </ref> | |||
== Economy == | |||
In 2006, 38,232 babies were born, compared to around 37,600 in 2005. The number, however, is still not sufficient to maintain the population. Singapore's large number of migrants has kept Singapore's population from declining.<ref> {{cite web| url = http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/257208/1/.html | title = Singapore's birth trend outlook remains dismal | publisher = Channel NewsAsia}} </ref> | |||
{{Main|Economy of Singapore}} | |||
]]] | |||
Singapore has a highly developed ], based historically on extended ] trade. Along with ], ], and ], Singapore is one of the ], and has surpassed its peers in terms of ] (GDP) per capita. Between 1965 and 1995, growth rates averaged around 6 per cent per annum, transforming the living standards of the population.<ref>{{cite book |last=Baten |first=Jörg |title=A History of the Global Economy. From 1500 to the Present |date=2016 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |page=292 |isbn=978-1-107-50718-0}}</ref> | |||
The Singaporean economy is regarded as free,<ref>{{cite news |last=Li |first=Dickson |url=http://www.asiaone.com/Business/News/My+Money/Story/A1Story20100201-195831.html |title=Singapore is most open economy: Report |work=Asiaone |location=Singapore |date=1 February 2010|access-date=10 May 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100207003624/http://www.asiaone.com/Business/News/My%2BMoney/Story/A1Story20100201-195831.html|archive-date=7 February 2010}}</ref> innovative,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://eurocham.org.sg/index.php?option=com_eurochammobile&view=news&id=289&template=ccmobile |title=Singapore ranked 7th in the world for innovation |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=5 March 2010|access-date=23 August 2010|archive-date=17 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130117011704/http://eurocham.org.sg/index.php?option=com_eurochammobile&view=news&id=289&template=ccmobile|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
===Religion=== | |||
dynamic<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/business/economy/singapore-jumps-to-top-of-global-dynamism-index |title=Singapore jumps to top of Global Dynamism Index |date=29 October 2015 |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore|access-date=25 November 2015|archive-date=7 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807080740/http://www.straitstimes.com/business/economy/singapore-jumps-to-top-of-global-dynamism-index|url-status=live}}</ref> and business-friendly.<ref>{{cite news |title=Singapore top paradise for business: World Bank |url=http://business.asiaone.com/Business/News/SME%2BCentral/Story/A1Story20070926-27084.html |agency=Agence France-Presse |location=Singapore |work=AsiaOne |date=26 September 2007|access-date=22 April 2010 |quote=For the second year running, Singapore tops the aggregate rankings on the ease of doing business in 2006 to 2007.|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090707002844/http://business.asiaone.com/Business/News/SME%2BCentral/Story/A1Story20070926-27084.html|archive-date=7 July 2009}}</ref> For several years, Singapore has been one of the few<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/economics-blog/2014/oct/15/the-aaa-rated-club-which-countries-still-make-the-grade |title=The AAA-rated club: which countries still make the grade? |date=15 October 2014 |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London|access-date=13 December 2016|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612144835/https://www.theguardian.com/business/economics-blog/2014/oct/15/the-aaa-rated-club-which-countries-still-make-the-grade|url-status=live}}</ref> countries with a ] from the ], and the only Asian country to achieve this rating.<ref>{{cite news |last=Ogg |first=Jon C. |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna44020687 |title=Remaining countries with AAA credit ratings|access-date=12 October 2011 |date=8 August 2011 |publisher=]|archive-date=10 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191210172859/http://www.nbcnews.com/id/44020687|url-status=live}}</ref> Singapore attracts a large amount of foreign investment as a result of its location, skilled workforce, low tax rates, advanced infrastructure and zero-tolerance against corruption.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cpib.gov.sg/sites/default/files/publication-documents/CPIB%20Corruption%20Statistics_0.pdf |title=CPIB Corruption Statistics 2015 |date=2 April 2015 |publisher=World Bank|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160322233426/https://www.cpib.gov.sg/sites/default/files/publication-documents/CPIB%20Corruption%20Statistics_0.pdf|archive-date=22 March 2016}}</ref> It was the world's 4th most competitive economy in 2023, according to the ]'s World Competitiveness Ranking of 64 countries,<ref>{{cite news |title=Singapore drops one place to No. 4 in global competitiveness ranking |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-drops-to-4th-in-global-competitiveness-ranking#:~:text=SINGAPORE%20%E2%80%93%20Singapore%20has%20been%20ranked,Competitiveness%20Ranking%20released%20on%20Tuesday. |work=Straits Times |date=22 June 2023|access-date=30 June 2023|archive-date=30 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630122457/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-drops-to-4th-in-global-competitiveness-ranking#:~:text=SINGAPORE%20%E2%80%93%20Singapore%20has%20been%20ranked,Competitiveness%20Ranking%20released%20on%20Tuesday.|url-status=live}}</ref> with the ].<ref>{{cite web |title=World Competitiveness Booklet |url=https://imd.cld.bz/IMD-World-Competitiveness-Booklet-2023/106/ |website=imd.cld.bz |publisher=] |access-date=1 July 2023 |language=en |date=2023 |archive-date=30 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630183836/https://imd.cld.bz/IMD-World-Competitiveness-Booklet-2023/106/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/2019/01/weodata/weorept.aspx?sy=2017&ey=2024&scsm=1&ssd=1&sort=country&ds=.&br=1&pr1.x=60&pr1.y=11&c=137,516,453,576,178&s=NGDPD,PPPGDP,NGDPDPC,PPPPC&grp=0&a= |title=Report for Selected Countries and Subjects |publisher=IMF|access-date=7 October 2019|archive-date=9 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209082914/https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/2019/01/weodata/weorept.aspx?sy=2017&ey=2024&scsm=1&ssd=1&sort=country&ds=.&br=1&pr1.x=60&pr1.y=11&c=137,516,453,576,178&s=NGDPD,PPPGDP,NGDPDPC,PPPPC&grp=0&a=|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/2019/01/weodata/weorept.aspx?sy=2018&ey=2018&scsm=1&ssd=1&sort=country&ds=.&br=1&pr1.x=55&pr1.y=9&c=512,946,914,137,612,546,614,962,311,674,213,676,911,548,193,556,122,678,912,181,313,867,419,682,513,684,316,273,913,868,124,921,339,948,638,943,514,686,218,688,963,518,616,728,223,836,516,558,918,138,748,196,618,278,624,692,522,694,622,142,156,449,626,564,628,565,228,283,924,853,233,288,632,293,636,566,634,964,238,182,662,359,960,453,423,968,935,922,128,714,611,862,321,135,243,716,248,456,469,722,253,942,642,718,643,724,939,576,644,936,819,961,172,813,132,726,646,199,648,733,915,184,134,524,652,361,174,362,328,364,258,732,656,366,654,734,336,144,263,146,268,463,532,528,944,923,176,738,534,578,536,537,429,742,433,866,178,369,436,744,136,186,343,925,158,869,439,746,916,926,664,466,826,112,542,111,967,298,443,927,917,846,544,299,941,582,446,474,666,754,668,698,672&s=PPPPC&grp=0&a= |title=Report for Selected Countries and Subjects |publisher=IMF|access-date=7 October 2019|archive-date=9 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209082917/https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/weo/2019/01/weodata/weorept.aspx?sy=2018&ey=2018&scsm=1&ssd=1&sort=country&ds=.&br=1&pr1.x=55&pr1.y=9&c=512,946,914,137,612,546,614,962,311,674,213,676,911,548,193,556,122,678,912,181,313,867,419,682,513,684,316,273,913,868,124,921,339,948,638,943,514,686,218,688,963,518,616,728,223,836,516,558,918,138,748,196,618,278,624,692,522,694,622,142,156,449,626,564,628,565,228,283,924,853,233,288,632,293,636,566,634,964,238,182,662,359,960,453,423,968,935,922,128,714,611,862,321,135,243,716,248,456,469,722,253,942,642,718,643,724,939,576,644,936,819,961,172,813,132,726,646,199,648,733,915,184,134,524,652,361,174,362,328,364,258,732,656,366,654,734,336,144,263,146,268,463,532,528,944,923,176,738,534,578,536,537,429,742,433,866,178,369,436,744,136,186,343,925,158,869,439,746,916,926,664,466,826,112,542,111,967,298,443,927,917,846,544,299,941,582,446,474,666,754,668,698,672&s=PPPPC&grp=0&a=|url-status=live}}</ref> Roughly 44 percent of the Singaporean workforce is made up of non-Singaporeans.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.salary.sg/2010/44-percent-of-workforce-are-non-citizens/ |title=44 Percent of Workforce Are Non-Citizens" (our estimate)|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160221140252/http://www.salary.sg/2010/44-percent-of-workforce-are-non-citizens/|archive-date=21 February 2016 |work=Your Salary in Singapore |date=15 March 2010}}</ref> Despite market freedom, Singapore's government operations have a significant stake in the economy, contributing 22% of the GDP.<ref>{{cite news |author=Seung-yoon Lee |url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/04/09/ha-joon-chang-economics_n_5120030.html |title=Ha-Joon Chang: Economics Is A Political Argument |work=HuffPost |date=9 April 2014|access-date=18 July 2014|archive-date=25 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140725200025/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/04/09/ha-joon-chang-economics_n_5120030.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The city is a popular location for conferences and events.<ref>{{cite news |title=Singapore remains top Asian city for meetings |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-remains-top-asian-city-for-meetings |work=The Straits Times |date=9 September 2015 |location=Singapore|access-date=9 August 2018|archive-date=9 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180809215414/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-remains-top-asian-city-for-meetings|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
], the country's ], celebrated the nation's 2015 ] with a flag ] on its ].]] | |||
Singapore is also a ]. Around 51% of Singaporeans practice ] and ]. About 15%, mostly Chinese and Indians, practice ]. ] constitute 16%, of whom Malays account just over 13%. Smaller minorities practise ], ], and others, according to the 2000 census.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.singstat.gov.sg/keystats/c2000/religion.pdf | title= Census of Population 2000 by religion, ethnic group, and gender | work=Statistics Singapore | publisher= ] | accessdate= 2007-03-12}}</ref> About 15% of the population have no religious affiliation. | |||
The currency of Singapore is the ] (SGD or S$), issued by the ] (MAS).<ref>{{cite book |author=Low Siang Kok |title=The Future of Money |publisher=Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development |location=Paris|chapter-url=http://www.oecd.org/dataoecd/40/31/35391062.pdf|access-date=28 December 2007 |isbn=978-92-64-19672-8 |page=147 |chapter=Chapter 6: Singapore Electronic Legal Tender (SELT) – A Proposed Concept |year=2002 <!-- http://www.oecd.org/bookshop?pub=032002011P1 -->|archive-date=16 February 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080216000244/http://www.oecd.org/dataoecd/40/31/35391062.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> It has been interchangeable with the ] at ] since 1967.<ref name="Currency History">{{cite press release |url=http://www.mas.gov.sg/currency/currency_info/Heritage_Collection.html |title=The Currency History of Singapore|access-date=22 April 2010 |date=9 April 2007 |publisher=Monetary Authority of Singapore|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100202075742/http://www.mas.gov.sg/currency/currency_info/Heritage_Collection.html|archive-date=2 February 2010}}</ref> MAS manages its ] by allowing the Singapore dollar ] to rise or fall within an undisclosed trading band. This is different from most ], which use ] to manage policy.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-04-13/this-central-bank-doesn-t-set-interest-rates |title=This Central Bank Doesn't Set Interest Rates |date=13 April 2015 |work=Bloomberg|access-date=11 March 2017|archive-date=19 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919003651/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-04-13/this-central-bank-doesn-t-set-interest-rates|url-status=live}}</ref> Singapore has the world's eleventh ],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.mas.gov.sg/statistics/reserve-statistics/official-foreign-reserves |title=Official Foreign Reserves |website=mas.gov.sg|access-date=28 August 2019|archive-date=19 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201119033149/https://www.mas.gov.sg/statistics/reserve-statistics/official-foreign-reserves|url-status=live}}</ref> and one of the highest ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.singstat.gov.sg/SDDS/data.html#ext |title=Statistics Singapore -IMF SDDS – Economic and Financial |publisher=Singstat.gov.sg|access-date=14 October 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131009010622/http://www.singstat.gov.sg/SDDS/data.html|archive-date=9 October 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.xe.com/ucc/convert/?Amount=1&From=USD&To=SGD |title=Based on USD/SGD rate of 1.221 |publisher=Xe.com|access-date=14 October 2013|archive-date=18 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130218200515/http://www.xe.com/ucc/convert/?Amount=1&From=USD&To=SGD|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
===Languages=== | |||
Singapore has been identified as a ]<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.todayonline.com/business/singapore-fifth-worst-tax-haven-world-oxfam |title=Singapore fifth worst tax haven in the world: Oxfam |last=Lee |first=Yen Nee|access-date=28 August 2019|archive-date=28 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190828035003/https://www.todayonline.com/business/singapore-fifth-worst-tax-haven-world-oxfam|url-status=live}}</ref> for the wealthy due to its low tax rates on personal income and tax exemptions on foreign-based income and capital gains. Individuals such as Australian millionaire retailer ] and multi-billionaire Facebook co-founder ] are two examples of wealthy individuals who have settled in Singapore.<ref>{{cite web |title=Tax havens: Brett Blundy latest to join the Singapore set |url=http://www.brw.com.au/p/brw-lounge/tax_havens_brett_blundy_latest_to_6FkTiljzKasO6SyVSMRWpM|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130414232445/http://www.brw.com.au/p/brw-lounge/tax_havens_brett_blundy_latest_to_6FkTiljzKasO6SyVSMRWpM|url-status=dead|archive-date=14 April 2013 |website=Business Review Weekly|access-date=18 April 2013 |author=Andrew Heathcote |date=15 April 2013}}</ref> In 2009, Singapore was removed from the ] (OECD) "liste grise" of tax havens,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Nooten |first1=Carrie |title=Pourquoi Cahuzac a-t-il placé son argent à Singapour? |url=http://www.slate.fr/story/70305/singapour-paradis-fiscal |website=Slate|access-date=13 November 2016 |language=fr |date=4 April 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161114005811/http://www.slate.fr/story/70305/singapour-paradis-fiscal|archive-date=14 November 2016}}</ref> and ranked fourth on the ]'s 2015 ] of the world's off-shore financial service providers, banking one-eighth of the world's offshore capital, while "providing numerous tax avoidance and evasion opportunities".<ref name="FSI">{{cite web |title=Financial Secrecy Index – 2015 Results: Narrative Report on Singapore |publisher=Tax Justice Network |url=http://www.financialsecrecyindex.com/PDF/Singapore.pdf |year=2015|access-date=23 November 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161001155132/http://www.financialsecrecyindex.com/PDF/Singapore.pdf|archive-date=1 October 2016}}</ref> In August 2016, '']'' reported that Indonesia had decided to create tax havens on two islands near Singapore to bring Indonesian capital back into the tax base.<ref>{{cite news |title=Jakarta plans tax haven on two islands near Singapore |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/jakarta-plans-tax-haven-on-two-islands-near-singapore |website=The Straits Times|access-date=13 November 2016 |date=14 August 2016|archive-date=14 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161114005729/http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/jakarta-plans-tax-haven-on-two-islands-near-singapore|url-status=live}}</ref> In October 2016, the Monetary Authority of Singapore admonished and fined ] and ] and withdrew ]'s banking licence for their alleged role in the Malaysian Sovereign Fund scandal.<ref>{{cite news |author1=Anshuman Daga |author2=Joshua Franklin |title=Singapore shuts Falcon bank unit, fines DBS and UBS over 1MDB |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-malaysia-scandal-falcon-idUSKCN12B03Y|access-date=13 November 2016 |date=11 October 2016 |newspaper=Reuters|archive-date=14 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161114004410/http://www.reuters.com/article/us-malaysia-scandal-falcon-idUSKCN12B03Y|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=UBS et Falcon sanctionnés à Singapour dans le scandale 1MBD |url=http://www.bilan.ch/argent-finances/ubs-falcon-sanctionnes-a-singapour-scandale-1mbd |website=Bilan.ch|access-date=13 November 2016 |language=fr |date=11 October 2016|archive-date=2 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180502222612/http://www.bilan.ch/argent-finances/ubs-falcon-sanctionnes-a-singapour-scandale-1mbd|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
The national language of Singapore is ] for historical reasons, and it is used in the national anthem, "]". The official languages are ], ], Malay and ]. English has been promoted as the country's language of administration since independence, and it is spoken by the majority of the population, especially the young. Public signs and official publications are in English, although there are usually translated versions in the other official languages. | |||
In 2016, Singapore was rated the world's most expensive city for the third consecutive year by the ],<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ungku |first1=Fathin |last2=Teo |first2=Hillary |title=Water price hike sparks rare public protest in Singapore |url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-singapore-protest-idUKKBN16I0GP?il=0|access-date=11 March 2017 |work=Reuters |date=11 March 2017|archive-date=12 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312063839/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-singapore-protest-idUKKBN16I0GP?il=0|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author=Lee Yen Nee |title=Singapore ranked world's most expensive city for 3rd year running |url=http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/singapore-worlds-most-expensive-city-third-year-row-says-eiu-report|access-date=11 March 2017 |work=Today |location=Singapore |date=10 March 2016|archive-date=24 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170424151527/http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/singapore-worlds-most-expensive-city-third-year-row-says-eiu-report?|url-status=live}}</ref> and this remained true in 2018.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.economist.com/blogs/graphicdetail/2018/03/daily-chart-9 |title=Asian and European cities compete for the title of most expensive city |date=15 March 2018 |newspaper=The Economist|access-date=21 April 2018 |location=London|archive-date=1 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180501185800/https://www.economist.com/blogs/graphicdetail/2018/03/daily-chart-9|url-status=live}}</ref> The government provides numerous assistance programmes to the homeless and needy through the ], so acute poverty is rare. Some of the programmes include providing financial assistance to needy households, providing free medical care at government hospitals, and paying for children's tuition.<ref>{{cite web |title=Assistance |date=26 October 2014 |url=http://app.msf.gov.sg/Assistance |publisher=Ministry of Social and Family Development|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141026061435/http://app.msf.gov.sg/Assistance|archive-date=26 October 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=The stingy nanny |date=16 October 2009 |url=http://www.economist.com/node/15524092 |newspaper=The Economist |location=London|access-date=14 February 2012|archive-date=2 February 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120202084444/http://www.economist.com/node/15524092|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Welfare in Singapore: Singapore government response |date=17 February 2010 |url=http://www.economist.com/node/15541423 |newspaper=The Economist |location=London|access-date=14 February 2012|archive-date=29 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120629042252/http://www.economist.com/node/15541423|url-status=live}}</ref> Other benefits include compensation for gym fees to encourage citizens to exercise,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.todayonline.com/print/475546 |title=ActiveSG$100 for Singaporeans to play sport |newspaper=Today |location=Singapore |date=26 April 2014|access-date=13 July 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160623023323/http://www.todayonline.com/print/475546|archive-date=23 June 2016}}</ref> up to S$166,000 as a ] for each citizen,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.babybonus.msf.gov.sg/parent |title=Baby Bonus |publisher=Ministry of Social & Family Development|access-date=13 July 2016|archive-date=16 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016034146/http://www.babybonus.msf.gov.sg/parent/|url-status=live}}</ref> heavily subsidised healthcare, financial aid for the disabled, the provision of reduced-cost laptops for poor students,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ida.gov.sg/Learning/Community-Development/NEU-PC-Plus-Programme/Schemes/NEU-PC-Plus-Programme-PC-Bundle-scheme |title=NEU PC Plus Programme |publisher=Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore|access-date=13 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160119040025/https://www.ida.gov.sg/Learning/Community-Development/NEU-PC-Plus-Programme/Schemes/NEU-PC-Plus-Programme-PC-Bundle-scheme|archive-date=19 January 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> rebates for costs such as public transport<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mot.gov.sg/News-Centre/News/2015/250,000-Public-Transport-Vouchers-to-Help-Needy-Families-Cope-with-Fare-Adjustment |title=250,000 Public Transport Vouchers to Help Needy Families Cope with Fare Adjustment |publisher=Ministry of Transport |date=21 January 2015|access-date=13 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160529210225/http://www.mot.gov.sg/News-Centre/News/2015/250,000-Public-Transport-Vouchers-to-Help-Needy-Families-Cope-with-Fare-Adjustment/|archive-date=29 May 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> and utility bills, and more.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://app.msf.gov.sg/Press-Room/Numbers-and-profile-of-homeless-persons |title=Numbers and profile of homeless persons |publisher=Ministry of Social and Family Development |date=13 August 2012|access-date=13 July 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160513223221/http://app.msf.gov.sg/Press-Room/Numbers-and-profile-of-homeless-persons|archive-date=13 May 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.singaporebudget.gov.sg/budget_2014/families1.aspx |title=Singapore Budget 2014 – Measures For Households |publisher=Government of Singapore|access-date=13 July 2016|archive-date=25 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160625104848/http://www.singaporebudget.gov.sg/budget_2014/families1.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> As of 2018 Singapore's ranking in the ] is 9th in the world, with an HDI value of 0.935.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://hdr.undp.org/sites/all/themes/hdr_theme/country-notes/SGP.pdf |title=Human Development Report 2019 |publisher=UNDP |year=2019 |access-date=20 June 2020 |archive-date=22 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622144854/http://hdr.undp.org/sites/all/themes/hdr_theme/country-notes/SGP.pdf |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
The ] used is primarily ], with some ] influences. The local colloquial ] of English is ], which has many ]-like characteristics, having incorporated vocabulary and grammar from various ], ], and ]n languages. Singlish is spoken commonly on the streets, but the government frowns upon its use in official contexts. The use of English became widespread in Singapore after it was implemented as a first language medium in the ], and English is the most common language in ]. | |||
== |
== Geography == | ||
{{ |
{{Main|Geography of Singapore}} | ||
{{See also|Land reclamation in Singapore}} | |||
] | |||
Singapore consists of ], including the main island, ].<ref>{{cite book |first1=Victor R. |last1=Savage |first2=Brenda S.A. |last2=Yeoh |title=Toponymics: A Study of Singapore's Street Names |year=2004 |publisher=Eastern Universities Press |location=Singapore |isbn=978-981-210-364-2}}</ref> There are two man-made connections to ], ]: the ] in the north and the ] in the west. ], ], ] and ] are the largest of Singapore's smaller islands. The highest natural point is ] at {{convert|163.63|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nhb.gov.sg/NHBPortal/faces/oracle/webcenter/portalapp/pagehierarchy/Page856.jspx?detContId=NHBSVRAPP61620001517|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150409193851/http://www.nhb.gov.sg/NHBPortal/faces/oracle/webcenter/portalapp/pagehierarchy/Page856.jspx?detContId=NHBSVRAPP61620001517|url-status=dead|archive-date=9 April 2015 |publisher=National Heritage Board|access-date=11 January 2015 |title=Bukit Timah Hill}}</ref> Under British rule, ] and the ] were part of Singapore, and both were transferred to ] in 1957.<ref>Commonwealth and Colonial Law by ], London, Stevens, 1966. Pgs. 133–134</ref><ref>Department of External Affairs in Australia. (16 May 1957): Report from the Australian High Commission in Singapore to the Department of External Affairs in Australia. Singapore: National Archives of Singapore. (Microfilm: NAB 447)</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19580516.2.20.2.aspx |title=All set for transfer |date=16 May 1958 |newspaper=The Straits Times |page=2 |location=Singapore |access-date=17 February 2019 |archive-date=6 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906024518/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19580516.2.20.2.aspx |url-status=live}}</ref> ] is the nation's easternmost point.<ref name="PBA">{{cite web |url=https://www.mfa.gov.sg/SINGAPORES-FOREIGN-POLICY/Key-Issues/Pedra-Branca |title=Pedra Branca |publisher=Ministry of Foreign Affairs |access-date= 4 February 2020 |archive-date= 20 December 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20191220024132/https://www.mfa.gov.sg/SINGAPORES-FOREIGN-POLICY/Key-Issues/Pedra-Branca |url-status= live}}</ref> | |||
] are located at ], namely, from left to right, ], ] and ]. All three buildings are 280 metres in height.]] | |||
] projects have increased Singapore's land area from {{convert|580|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}} in the 1960s to {{convert|710|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}} by 2015, an increase of some 22% (130 km<sup>2</sup>).<ref name="sand1">{{cite news |url=https://www.economist.com/news/asia/21645221-asias-mania-reclaiming-land-sea-spawns-mounting-problems-such-quantities-sand |title=Such quantities of sand |date=28 February 2015 |newspaper=The Economist |location=London |access-date=11 September 2017 |archive-date=13 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170913151040/https://www.economist.com/news/asia/21645221-asias-mania-reclaiming-land-sea-spawns-mounting-problems-such-quantities-sand |url-status=live}}</ref> The country is projected to reclaim another {{convert|56|km2|sqmi|-1|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite web |title=MND Land Use Report |url=https://www.mnd.gov.sg/landuseplan/ |publisher=Ministry of National Development |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130204064610/https://www.mnd.gov.sg/landuseplan/ |archive-date=4 February 2013}}</ref> Some projects involve merging smaller islands through land reclamation to form larger, more functional and habitable islands, as has been done with Jurong Island.<ref name="earthshots.usgs.gov">{{cite web |url=http://earthshots.usgs.gov/earthshots/node/11#ad-image-20 |title=Earthshots: Satellite Images of Environmental Change: Singapore |publisher=Earthshots |access-date= 14 April 2015 |archive-date= 21 May 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150521074529/http://earthshots.usgs.gov/earthshots/node/11#ad-image-20 |url-status= live}}</ref> The type of sand used in reclamation is found in rivers and beaches, rather than deserts, and is in great demand worldwide. In 2010 Singapore imported almost 15 million tons of sand for its projects, the demand being such that Indonesia, Malaysia, and ] have all restricted or barred the export of sand to Singapore in recent years. As a result, in 2016 Singapore switched to using ]s for reclamation, in which an area is enclosed and then pumped dry.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/new-ideas-to-feed-a-growing-island/ |title=New ideas to feed a growing island |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=4 February 2018 |access-date= 29 May 2019 |archive-date= 29 May 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190529155354/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/new-ideas-to-feed-a-growing-island |url-status= live}}</ref> | |||
The architecture of Singapore is varied, reflecting the ethnic build-up of the country. Singapore has several ethnic neighbourhoods, including ] and ]. These were formed under the ] to segregate the immigrants, but now have a more diverse patronage. Many places of worship were also constructed during the colonial era. ], the ] ] and the ] are among those that were built during the colonial period. Work is now underway to preserve these religious sites as ]. | |||
=== Nature === | |||
Due to the lack of available space, few historical buildings remain in the centre of the Central Business District (CBD) of Singapore - the ] and the previously-moved ] being some exceptions. However, just outside of Raffles Place, and throughout the rest of the downtown core, there is a large scattering of pre-WWII buildings - some going back nearly as far as Raffles, as with the ], built in 1827.{{Fact|date=April 2007}} Many classical buildings were destroyed during the post-war decades, up until the 1990s, when things completely changed and the government started very strict programs to conserve the many remaining buildings and whole areas that are of historic and aesthetic value. | |||
{{Main|Wildlife of Singapore}} | |||
] – one of three gardens in the world, and the only tropical garden, to be recognised as such.]] | |||
Past the shopping malls are streets lined with shophouses. Many other such areas have been gazetted as historic districts. Information can be found at the ] Centre in Maxwell Road, where there are exhibits and several models of the island and its architecture. Singapore has also become a centre for modern, or more correctly, ]. Historically, the demand for high-end buildings has been in and around the Central Business District (CBD). After decades of development, the CBD has become an area with many tall office buildings. These buildings comprise the skyline along the coast of Marina Bay and Raffles Place, a famous tourist attraction in Singapore. Plans for tall buildings must be reviewed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore.<ref> {{cite web | |||
|url = http://www.caas.gov.sg/caas/en/e-Services/ANO_Hazard_C/view_building_height_res_map.html | |||
|publisher = Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore | |||
|title = Building Height Restriction Map}}</ref> No building in Singapore may be taller than 280 metres.<ref> {{cite web | |||
|url = http://www.liechtenstein.li/en/pdf-fl-multimedia-information-bilateral-singapur.pdf | |||
|title = Liechtenstein – Singapore: a comparison}}</ref> The three tallest buildings in Singapore, namely ], ] and ], are all 280 metres in height. | |||
Singapore's urbanisation means that it has lost 95% of its historical forests,<ref name="nature-extinctions">{{cite journal |last1=Brook |first1=Barry W. |last2=Sodhi |first2=Navjot S. |last3=Ng |first3=Peter K.L. |date=24 July 2003 |title=Catastrophic extinctions follow deforestation in Singapore |journal=Nature |volume=424 |pages=420–426 |issn=0028-0836 |doi=10.1038/nature01795 |pmid=12879068 |issue=6947 |bibcode=2003Natur.424..420B |s2cid=4404246}}</ref> and now over half of the naturally occurring ] and ] in Singapore is present in nature reserves, such as the ] and the ], which comprise only 0.25% of Singapore's land area.<ref name="nature-extinctions" /> In 1967, to combat this decline in natural space, the government introduced the vision of making Singapore a "garden city",<ref>{{cite web |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/a7fac49f-9c96-4030-8709-ce160c58d15c |title="Garden City" vision is introduced |publisher=History SG|access-date=16 November 2016|archive-date=30 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161030155659/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/a7fac49f-9c96-4030-8709-ce160c58d15c|url-status=live}}</ref> aiming to improve quality of life.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nparks.gov.sg/cms/docs/AnnexB.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140324093917/https://www.nparks.gov.sg/cms/docs/AnnexB.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=24 March 2014 |title=Singapore, A City in a Garden |publisher=National Parks Board}}</ref> Since then, nearly 10% of Singapore's land has been set aside for parks and ]s.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://app.mnd.gov.sg/Newsroom/NewsPage.aspx?ID=5064&category=Speech&year=2014&RA1=&RA2=&RA3=|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140710090137/http://app.mnd.gov.sg/Newsroom/NewsPage.aspx?ID=5064&category=Speech&year=2014&RA1=&RA2=&RA3=|url-status=dead|archive-date=10 July 2014 |title=Speech by MOS Desmond Lee at the Asia for Animals Conference Gala Dinner |publisher=National Development Ministry|access-date=17 January 2014}}</ref> The government has created ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nbrcnparks.org/initiatives_nation.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071005194408/http://www.nbrcnparks.org/initiatives_nation.asp|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 October 2007 |title=National Initiatives |publisher=National Biodiversity Reference Center|access-date=26 September 2009}}</ref> Singapore's well known gardens include the ], a 165-year-old tropical garden and Singapore's first ] ].<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-botanic-gardens-declared-unesco-world-heritage-site-8224416 |title=Singapore Botanic Gardens declared UNESCO World Heritage Site |date=4 July 2015 |publisher=Channel NewsAsia|access-date=15 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115213851/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-botanic-gardens-declared-unesco-world-heritage-site-8224416|archive-date=15 November 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
In addition, some interesting signs of Singapore's colonial past remain in the form of "Black and White Houses". These large houses are situated further away from the CBD and were built in the early to mid 19th century. These homes were built to house the British generals and governors when Britain occupied the country. Later, they became home to many Japanese generals after the fall of Singapore during ]. | |||
== |
=== Climate === | ||
{{See also|Climate change in Singapore}}]]] | |||
Singapore has a ] (]: ''Af'') with no distinctive seasons, uniform temperature and pressure, high humidity, and abundant rainfall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Climate of Singapore |url=http://www.weather.gov.sg/climate-climate-of-singapore/ |website=weather.gov.sg|access-date=28 May 2020|archive-date=29 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200529212925/http://www.weather.gov.sg/climate-climate-of-singapore|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last1=McKnight |first1=Tom L. (Tom Lee) |url=https://archive.org/details/physicalgeographmckn |title=Physical geography : a landscape appreciation |last2=Hess |first2=Darrel |date=2000 |publisher=Upper Saddle River, N.J. : Prentice Hall |others=Internet Archive |access-date=28 May 2020}}</ref> Temperatures usually range from {{convert|23|to|32|°C|°F}}. While temperature does not vary greatly throughout the year, there is a wetter ] season from November to February.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nea.gov.sg/weather-climate/climate/weather-statistics |title=Singapore National Environment Agency Weather Statistics|access-date=24 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161031025300/http://www.nea.gov.sg/weather-climate/climate/weather-statistics|archive-date=31 October 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
{{main|Culture of Singapore}} | |||
From July to October, there is often ] caused by ]s in neighbouring Indonesia, usually from the island of ].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=12078 |title=Singapore enveloped by Sumatran smog |last=Bond |first=Sam |work=Edie newsroom |date=2 October 2006|access-date=2 June 2011|archive-date=27 September 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927134938/http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=12078|url-status=live}}</ref> Singapore follows the GMT+8 time zone, one hour ahead of the typical zone for its geographical location.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.math.nus.edu.sg/aslaksen/teaching/timezone.html |title=Why is Singapore in the 'Wrong' Time Zone? |author=Mok Ly Yng |publisher=National University of Singapore |date=22 September 2010|access-date=5 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100728230528/http://www.math.nus.edu.sg/aslaksen/teaching/timezone.html|archive-date=28 July 2010|url-status=dead}}</ref> This causes the sun to rise and set particularly late during February, where the sun rises at 7:15 am and sets around 7:20 pm. During July, the sun sets at around 7:15 pm. The earliest the sun rises and sets is in late October and early November when the sun rises at 6:46 am and sets at 6:50 pm.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Astronomical and Tidal Information {{!}} Monthly Data|url=http://www.weather.gov.sg/weather-astronomical-and-tidal-information-monthly-data|website=weather.gov.sg|access-date=31 May 2020|archive-date=18 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200518173327/http://www.weather.gov.sg/weather-astronomical-and-tidal-information-monthly-data|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
]. ]s and ]s are well-distributed throughout the country.]] | |||
Singapore recognises that climate change and ] in the decades ahead will have major implications for its low-lying coastline. It estimates that the nation will need to spend $100 billion over the course of the next century to address the issue. In its 2020 budget, the government set aside an initial $5 billion towards a Coastline and Flood Protection Fund.<ref>{{cite news |title=Singapore Budget 2020: New coastal and flood protection fund to protect Singapore against rising sea levels |date=18 February 2020 |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |first=Audrey |last=Tan |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-budget-2020-new-coastal-and-flood-protection-fund-to-protect-singapore-against |access-date=20 February 2020 |archive-date=20 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200220154552/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-budget-2020-new-coastal-and-flood-protection-fund-to-protect-singapore-against |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>Overland, Indra et al. (2017) '' {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200728065717/https://www.researchgate.net/publication/320622312_Impact_of_Climate_Change_on_ASEAN_International_Affairs_Risk_and_Opportunity_Multiplier |date=28 July 2020 }}'', Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) and Myanmar Institute of International and Strategic Studies (MISIS).</ref> Singapore is the first country in Southeast Asia to levy a ] on its largest carbon-emitting corporations producing more than 25,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year, at $5 per ton.<ref>{{cite news |title=Singapore Budget 2018: Carbon tax of $5 per tonne of greenhouse gas emissions to be levied |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-budget-2018-carbon-tax-of-5-per-tonne-of-greenhouse-gas-emissions-to-be-levied |work=The Straits Times |date=19 February 2018 |location=Singapore |access-date=24 March 2020 |archive-date=19 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180219105759/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-budget-2018-carbon-tax-of-5-per-tonne-of-greenhouse-gas-emissions-to-be-levied |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
Singapore is a mixture of ] population with a ] majority, as well as ] and ] immigrants with some intermarriages.<ref>In reality, there are very few people in Singapore who can claim to be truly indigenous to the island of Singapore. Other than people who can trace their ancestry to the small number of Orang Laut and Malay fisherfolk living on the island then, the peoples of Singapore {including the Malays} are basically descendants of immigrants who came to Singapore to take advantage of the economic opportunities made available by the founding of modern Singapore by Raffles.</ref> There also exist significant ] and '']'' (known also as 'Straits Chinese') communities. Singapore has also achieved a significant degree of ]. | |||
To reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels, it has ramped up deployment of solar panels on rooftops and vertical surfaces of buildings, and other initiatives like building one of the world's largest floating solar farms at ] in ].<ref>{{cite news |title=One of world's largest floating solar farms coming up in Tuas |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/environment/one-of-worlds-largest-floating-solar-farms-coming-up-in-tuas |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=19 August 2020 |access-date=13 September 2020 |archive-date=25 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125122236/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/environment/one-of-worlds-largest-floating-solar-farms-coming-up-in-tuas |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
===Cuisine=== | |||
{{Singapore weatherbox}} | |||
{{main|Cuisine of Singapore}} | |||
=== Water supply === | |||
Singaporean cuisine is also a prime example of diversity and cultural diffusion in Singapore, with a fusion of Chinese, Indian, Malay and Tamil influences. In Singapore's ]s, for example, traditionally ] ] stalls selling ] food may serve halal versions of traditionally ] food. ] stalls may introduce ] ingredients, cooking techniques or entire dishes into their range of catering. This continues to make the cuisine of ] significantly rich and a cultural attraction. | |||
{{Main|Water supply and sanitation in Singapore}} | |||
Singapore considers water a national security issue and the government has sought to emphasise conservation.<ref>{{cite news |last=Nur Asyiqin |first=Mohamad Salleh |title=Parliament: Water an issue of national security and must be priced fully, Masagos says |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/singapolitics/parliament-water-an-issue-of-national-security-and-must-be-priced-fully |access-date=6 December 2020 |newspaper=The Straits Times |date=1 March 2017 |archive-date=14 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210414170843/https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/singapolitics/parliament-water-an-issue-of-national-security-and-must-be-priced-fully |url-status=live}}</ref> Water access is universal and of high quality, though the country is projected to face significant water-stress by 2040.<ref>{{cite web |title=Water Action Decade – Singapore |url=https://wateractiondecade.org/country/singapore/ |website=Water Action Decade |access-date=6 December 2020 |archive-date=9 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201209224200/https://wateractiondecade.org/country/singapore/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=S'pore 'most at risk of facing high water stress' |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/world/united-states/spore-most-at-risk-of-facing-high-water-stress |access-date=6 December 2020 |newspaper=The Straits Times |date=29 August 2015 |archive-date=22 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210122062242/https://www.straitstimes.com/world/united-states/spore-most-at-risk-of-facing-high-water-stress |url-status=live}}</ref> To circumvent this, the Public Utilities Board has implemented the ] strategy – water imported from neighbouring Malaysia, urban rainwater catchments, reclaimed water (NEWater) and seawater desalination.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.pub.gov.sg/watersupply/singaporewaterstory |title=Singapore Water Story |publisher=Public Utilities Board |year=2018|access-date=17 March 2018|archive-date=29 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220329062059/https://www.pub.gov.sg/watersupply/singaporewaterstory|url-status=live}}</ref> Singapore's approach does not rely only on physical infrastructure; it also emphasises proper legislation and enforcement, water pricing, public education as well as research and development.<ref name="Luan">{{cite journal |author=Ivy Ong Bee Luan |title=Singapore Water Management Policies and Practices |journal=International Journal of Water Resources Development |year=2010 |volume=26 |issue=1 |pages=65–80 |doi=10.1080/07900620903392190 |bibcode=2010IJWRD..26...65L |s2cid=154813810}}</ref> Singapore has declared that it will be water self-sufficient by the time its 1961 long-term water supply agreement with Malaysia expires in 2061. However, according to official forecasts, water demand in Singapore is expected to double from {{convert|1.4|to|2.8|e9L|e6m3 e6gal|abbr=off}} per day between 2010 and 2060. The increase is expected to come primarily from non-domestic water use, which accounted for 55% of water demand in 2010 and is expected to account for 70% of demand in 2060. By that time, water demand is expected to be met by reclaimed water at the tune of 50% and by desalination accounting for 30%, compared to only 20% supplied by internal catchments.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Singapore To Meet Water Target Before Deadline: Southeast Asia |website=] |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-07-29/singapore-to-meet-water-target-before-deadline-southeast-asia.html|access-date=9 August 2012 |date=30 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120805212635/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-07-29/singapore-to-meet-water-target-before-deadline-southeast-asia.html|archive-date=5 August 2012|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Four National Taps Provide Water for All |url=http://www.pub.gov.sg/water/Pages/default.aspx|access-date=10 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120730063932/http://www.pub.gov.sg/water/Pages/default.aspx|archive-date=30 July 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
Singapore is expanding its recycling system and intends to spend S$10 billion (US$7.4 billion) in water treatment infrastructure upgrades.<ref>{{cite web |title=Resource-starved Singapore turns sewage into ultra-clean water |url=https://phys.org/news/2021-08-resource-starved-singapore-sewage-ultra-clean.html|access-date=13 August 2021 |website=phys.org|archive-date=13 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210813231204/https://phys.org/news/2021-08-resource-starved-singapore-sewage-ultra-clean.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The Ulu Pandan wastewater treatment was specially built to test advanced used-water treatment processes before full deployment and won the ''Water/Wastewater Project of the Year Award'' at the 2018 Global Water Awards in Paris, France.<ref>{{cite web |title=2018 Water / Wastewater Project of the Year |url=https://globalwaterawards.com/2018-water-wastewater-project-of-the-year/|access-date=13 August 2021 |website=Global Water Awards |language=en-US|archive-date=13 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210813231205/https://globalwaterawards.com/2018-water-wastewater-project-of-the-year/|url-status=live}}</ref> Operation started in 2017 and was jointly developed by PUB and the Black & Veatch + AECOM Joint Venture.<ref>{{cite web |title=PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency |url=https://www.pub.gov.sg/|access-date=13 August 2021 |website=PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency}}</ref> | |||
Favorite local foods are diverse, ranging from ] to ]. Singaporeans also enjoy a wide variety of ] including crabs, clams, squid, and oysters. One such dish is ] barbecued and served on banana leaf and with sambal (chilli). | |||
=== Virtual Singapore === | |||
] | |||
{{Main|Virtual Singapore}} | |||
Virtual Singapore is a ] of Singapore, which is used by the ], ], and many more companies to plan for industrial changes. It is also used for ].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Walker |first1=Andy |date=4 May 2023 |title=Singapore's digital twin – from science fiction to hi-tech reality |url=https://infra.global/singapores-digital-twin-from-science-fiction-to-hi-tech-reality/ |publisher=Infrastructure Global |access-date=20 November 2024}}</ref> | |||
== Transport == | |||
===Performing arts=== | |||
{{Main|Transport in Singapore}} | |||
=== Land === | |||
{{see also|Music of Singapore}} | |||
<gallery mode="packed" heights="140" style="text- align:left"> | |||
File:C851E NEL trains at Sengkang Depot.jpg|MRT provides fast and efficient travel across the city | |||
File:BP6 Bukit Panjang LRT Station Platform 202412.jpg|An LRT Train at ] | |||
File:(SGP-Singapore) Tower Transit SG6381Z 969 2024-03-23.jpg|Buses are common types of transport | |||
</gallery> | |||
Singapore has a ] covering {{convert|3356|km|mi|0}}, which includes {{convert|161|km|mi|0}} ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/corp_info/doc/Average_Daily_Public_Transport_Ridership.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100401014335/http://www.lta.gov.sg/corp_info/doc/Average_Daily_Public_Transport_Ridership.pdf|archive-date=1 April 2010|url-status=dead |title=Public transport ridership |publisher=Land Transport Authority|access-date=2 July 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/public_transport/pt_rail_tracing.htm |title=Tracing our steps |publisher=Land Transport Authority|access-date=2 July 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110605104816/http://www.lta.gov.sg/public_transport/pt_rail_tracing.htm|archive-date=5 June 2011}}</ref> The ], implemented in 1975, became the world's first ] scheme, and included other complementary measures such as stringent car ownership quotas and improvements in mass transit.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Small |first1=Kenneth A. |last2=Verhoef |first2=Erik T. |year=2007 |title=The Economics of Urban Transportation |url=https://archive.org/details/economicsurbantr00smal|url-access=limited |publisher=Routledge |location=London |isbn=978-0-415-28515-5 |page=}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Cervero |first=Robert|author-link=Robert Cervero |year=1998 |title=The Transit Metropolis |page=169 |publisher=Island Press |location=Washington DC |id=Chapter 6/The Master Planned Transit Metropolis: Singapore |isbn=978-1-55963-591-2}}</ref> Upgraded in 1998 and renamed ] (ERP), the system introduced ], electronic detection, and video surveillance technology.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/motoring_matters/index_motoring_erp.htm |title=Electronic Road Pricing |publisher=Land Transport Authority|access-date=16 April 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080410143342/http://www.lta.gov.sg/motoring_matters/index_motoring_erp.htm <!--Added by H3llBot-->|archive-date=10 April 2008}}</ref> A satellite-based system was due to replace the physical gantries by 2020, but has been delayed until 2026 due to global shortages in the supply of semiconductors.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/satellite-based-erp-to-be-ready-by-2020-with-s-556m-contract-awa-8182754 |title=Satellite-based ERP to be ready by 2020, with S$556m contract awarded |date=25 February 2016 |work=Channel NewsAsia|access-date=17 August 2018|archive-date=17 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180817161420/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/satellite-based-erp-to-be-ready-by-2020-with-s-556m-contract-awa-8182754|url-status=dead}}</ref> As Singapore is a small island with a high population density, the number of private cars on the road is restricted with a pre-set car population quota, to curb pollution and congestion. Car buyers must pay for Additional Registration Fees (ARF) duties of either 100%, 140%, 180% or 220% of the vehicle's Open Market Value (OMV), and bid for a Singaporean ] (COE) (that varies twice a month in supply based on the number of car registrations and de-registrations), which allows the car to be driven on the road for maximum period of 10 years. Car prices are generally significantly higher in Singapore than in other English-speaking countries.<ref name="BloombergBMW">{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-02-16/bmw-3-series-costs-260-000-as-singapore-tax-keeps-cars-for-rich.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110220044725/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-02-16/bmw-3-series-costs-260-000-as-singapore-tax-keeps-cars-for-rich.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=20 February 2011 |title=BMW Costing $260,000 Means Cars Only for Rich in Singapore as Taxes Climb |publisher=Bloomberg L.P. |location=New York|access-date=2 July 2011 |first=Kristine |last=Aquino |date=17 February 2011}}</ref> As with most Commonwealth countries, vehicles on the road and people walking on the streets keep to the left (]).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.expatsingapore.com/content/view/1147 |title=Once you're here: Basic Road Rules and Regulations |publisher=Expat Singapore |date=16 August 2009|access-date=27 February 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141215023246/http://www.expatsingapore.com/content/view/1147|archive-date=15 December 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
Since the 1990s, the government has been striving to promote Singapore as a centre for arts and culture, and to transform the country into a ] 'gateway between the East and West'.<ref> {{cite web | url=http://www.mica.gov.sg/renaissance/FinalRen.pdf|title=Renaissance City Report: Culture and the Arts in Renaissance Singapore (Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts)|accessdate=2006-05-01}}</ref> | |||
The highlight of these efforts was the construction of ], a centre for performing arts that opened on ], ].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Asia/Singapore/Singapore-1495679/Things_To_Do-Singapore-Esplanade_Theatres_by_the_Bay-BR-1.html | title=Virtual Tourist: Reviews of Esplanade (Theatres by the Bay) | accessdate=2006-03-28}}</ref> | |||
Singapore's public transport network is shaped up with trains (consisting of the ] and ] systems), ] and ]. There are currently six MRT lines (], ], ], ], ] and ]), three LRT lines serving the neighbourhoods of ] and ] (]), ] (]) and ] (]),<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/getting_around/public_transport/rail_network.html |title=Rail Network |publisher=Land Transport Authority|access-date=9 December 2022}}</ref> covering around 241 km (150 mi) in total, and more than 300 bus routes in operation.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/who_we_are/our_work/public_transport_system/bus.html |title=Bus |publisher=Land Transport Authority|access-date=9 December 2022}}</ref> Taxis are a popular form of transport as the fares are relatively affordable when compared to many other developed countries, whilst cars in Singapore are the most expensive to own worldwide.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/public-transport/taxis/getting-a-taxi.html |title=Getting A Taxi |publisher=Land Transport Authority|access-date=13 July 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160527192902/http://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/public-transport/taxis/getting-a-taxi.html|archive-date=27 May 2016}}</ref> | |||
===Sport and recreation=== | |||
The ] (connecting Singapore with ], ]) is the ] in the world, whereby approximately 350,000 travellers cross the border checkpoints of both ] and ] daily (with an annual total of 128 million travellers).<ref>{{cite news |last=Lim |first=Yan Liang |date=13 October 2013 |title=A look at Woodlands Checkpoint: Singapore's first and last line of defence |newspaper=The Straits Times |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/a-look-at-woodlands-checkpoint-singapores-first-and-last-line-of-defence |access-date=27 April 2022}}</ref> The ] (LTA) is responsible for all land transport-related infrastructure and operations in Singapore. | |||
{{main|Sports in Singapore}} | |||
=== Air === | |||
Singaporeans participate in a wide variety of sports and recreational activities. Favorite sports include ], ], ], ] and ]. Most people lived in ] that often provide amenities including swimming pools, outdoor basketball courts as well as indoor sport centres that can be used for badminton, table tennis, ] among others. As one might expect on an island, ]s are very popular, including ], ] and ]. ] is another popular recreation, particularly around the southern island of ], which is known for its rich coral reefs. | |||
]]] | |||
Singapore is a major international ] in Asia, serving some of the busiest sea and air trade routes. ] is an aviation centre for Southeast Asia and a stopover on ]' ] between Sydney and London.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/australasia/qantas-celebrates-60-years-of-the-kangaroo-route-761078.html |title=Qantas celebrates 60 years of the 'Kangaroo Route' |first=Kathy |last=Marks |newspaper=The Independent |location=London |date=30 November 2007}}</ref> There are two civilian airports in Singapore, ] and ].<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2019/04/06/firefly-to-resume-flights-to-seletar-airport-after-malaysia-singapore-resolve-airspace-issue |title=Malaysia and Singapore resolve airspace issue, Firefly to resume flights to Seletar airport |date=6 April 2019 |website=The Star Online}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/malaysian-firefly-resume-singapore-flights-twice-daily-seletar-11439066 |title=Malaysian carrier Firefly to resume Singapore flights with twice-daily trips |website=CNA|access-date=28 August 2019|archive-date=17 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210617181651/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/malaysian-firefly-resume-singapore-flights-twice-daily-seletar-11439066|url-status=dead}}</ref> The Changi Airport hosts a network of over 100 airlines connecting Singapore to some 300 cities in about 70 countries and territories worldwide.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.changiairport.com/our-business/about-changi-airport |title=About Changi Airport |publisher=Changiairport.com|access-date=13 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141121013212/http://www.changiairport.com/our-business/about-changi-airport|archive-date=21 November 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> It has been rated one of the best international airports by international travel magazines, including being rated as the world's best airport for the first time in 2006 by ].<ref>{{cite web |title=2006 Airport of the Year result|access-date=1 June 2006 |url=http://www.worldairportawards.com/Awards-2006/AirportYear-2006.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061231160516/http://www.worldairportawards.com/Awards-2006/AirportYear-2006.htm |publisher=World Airport Awards|archive-date=31 December 2006}}</ref> It also had three of the ten ] in 2023: the busiest between Kuala Lumpur–Singapore, seventh busiest between Jakarta–Singapore, and ninth busiest between Bangkok Suvarnahbumi–Singapore.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.oag.com/busiest-routes-world-2023 |title=The Busiest Flight Routes of 2023 |author=<!--Not stated--> |year=2024 |website=OAG.com |publisher=OAG Aviation Worldwide Limited |access-date=20 November 2024}}</ref> | |||
], which is the ] of Singapore,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.brandrepublic.com/news/201303/BRAND-HEALTH-CHECK-Singapore-airlines---Turbulence-ahead-Singapore-flag-carrier/ |title=Turbulence ahead for Singapore flag carrier |first=Jimmy |last=Yap |date=30 January 2004 |work=Brand Republic |publisher=Haymarket Business Media |location=London}}</ref> has been regarded as a 5-star airline by ]<ref>{{cite web |title=Singapore Airlines |url=https://skytraxratings.com/airlines/singapore-airlines-rating#:~:text=Singapore%20Airlines%20is%20Certified%20as%20a%205%2DStar%20Airline%20for,cabin%20staff%20and%20ground%20staff.s |publisher=Skytrax|access-date=9 December 2022}}</ref> and been in the world top 10 list of airlines for multiple consecutive years.<ref>{{cite web |title=Skytrax World Airline Awards |url=http://www.worldairlineawards.com/ |publisher=Skytrax|access-date=9 December 2022}}</ref> It held the title of the World's Best Airline by ] in 2023. It won this title 12 times. Its hub, ] had also been rated as the world's best airport from 2013 to 2020 before being superseded by ] in ].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-advice/airports/singapore-is-no-longer-the-worlds-best-airport/news-story/539ff30162fc7d6d74fd6ad559457bdb |title=Singapore is no longer the world's best airport |date=10 August 2021 |access-date=13 January 2024 |website=] |last=McMah |first=Lauren |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210810225156/https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-advice/airports/singapore-is-no-longer-the-worlds-best-airport/news-story/539ff30162fc7d6d74fd6ad559457bdb |archive-date=10 August 2021}}</ref> It reclaimed this title in 2023<ref>{{cite web |title=The World's Top 10 Airports of 2023 |url=https://www.worldairportawards.com/the-worlds-top-10-airports-of-2023/ |website=SKYTRAX |language=en}}</ref> before being superseded once more in 2024.<ref>{{cite web |title=The World's Best Airports|url=https://www.worldairportawards.com/airport-of-the-year-winners/|website=SKYTRAX |language=en}}</ref> | |||
Singaporean sportspersons have performed relatively well in regional as well as international competitions in sports such as ], ], ], ], ], ] and ]. Some athletes such as ] and ] have become national celebrities. | |||
== |
=== Sea === | ||
] | |||
The ], managed by port operators ] and ], was the world's second-busiest port in 2019 in terms of shipping tonnage handled, at 2.85 billion ]s (GT), and in terms of ] traffic, at 37.2 million ]s (TEUs).<ref name="MPA">{{cite web |url=https://www.mpa.gov.sg/web/portal/home/media-centre/news-releases/detail/38b82bb6-2f92-418c-a98d-c4c9e56f9232 |title=Singapore's 2019 Maritime Performance|access-date=4 February 2020|archive-date=3 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220103154554/https://www.mpa.gov.sg/web/portal/home/media-centre/news-releases/detail/38b82bb6-2f92-418c-a98d-c4c9e56f9232|url-status=dead}}</ref> It is also the world's second-busiest, behind Shanghai, in terms of cargo tonnage with 626 million tons handled. In addition, the port is the world's busiest for ] traffic and the world's biggest ship refuelling centre.<ref name="BTP">{{cite news |url=https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/government-economy/singapore-port-container-throughput-hits-record-high-in-2019-mpa |title=Singapore port container throughput hits record high in 2019: MPA |first=Sharanya |last=Pillai |date=13 January 2020 |website=The Business Times}}</ref> | |||
== Industry sectors == | |||
{{main|Education in Singapore}}].]] | |||
Singapore is the world's 3rd-largest ] centre, 6th-largest ],<ref name="GFCI">{{cite web |date=September 2020 |title=The Global Financial Centres Index 28 |url=https://www.longfinance.net/media/documents/GFCI_28_Full_Report_2020.09.25_v1.1.pdf|access-date=26 September 2020 |publisher=Long Finance}}</ref> 2nd-largest casino gambling market,<ref name="edmontonjournal.com">{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-08-10/singapore-miracle-dimming-as-income-gap-widens-squeeze-by-rich.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110816092048/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-08-10/singapore-miracle-dimming-as-income-gap-widens-squeeze-by-rich.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 August 2011 |date=10 August 2011 |work=Bloomberg |location=New York |last=Adam |first=Shamim |title=Singapore Miracle Dimming as Income Gap Widens Squeeze by Rich}}</ref> 3rd-largest oil-refining and trading centre, largest oil-rig producer and hub for ship repair services,<ref>. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120720070516/http://www.edb.gov.sg/edb/sg/en_uk/index/industry_sectors/energy/facts_and_figures.html|date=20 July 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/8b9d7d1e-c837-11da-a377-0000779e2340.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221210/http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/8b9d7d1e-c837-11da-a377-0000779e2340.html |archive-date=10 December 2022|url-access=subscription |work=Financial Times |location=London |date=10 April 2006 |last=Burton |first=John |title=Singapore economy grows 9.1% in first quarter}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.edb.gov.sg/edb/sg/en_uk/index/industry_sectors/marine___offshore/facts_and_figures.html |title=Facts and Figures |publisher=Singapore Economic Development Board |date=30 January 2012|access-date=21 April 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120418084237/http://www.edb.gov.sg/edb/sg/en_uk/index/industry_sectors/marine___offshore/facts_and_figures.html|archive-date=18 April 2012}}</ref> and largest logistics hub.<ref>{{cite news |newspaper=The Straits Times |date=7 November 2007 |location=Singapore |author=Yang Huiwen |title=Singapore ranked No. 1 logistics hub by World Bank |page=69}}</ref> The economy is diversified, with its top contributors being financial services, manufacturing, and oil-refining. Its main exports are refined petroleum, integrated circuits, and computers,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.singstat.gov.sg/stats/themes/economy/ess/essa11.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080624200246/http://www.singstat.gov.sg/stats/themes/economy/ess/essa11.pdf|archive-date=24 June 2008 |title=Gross Domestic Product by Industry|access-date=22 April 2010 |year=2007 |publisher=Singapore Statistics}}</ref> which constituted 27% of the country's GDP in 2010. Other significant sectors include electronics, chemicals, mechanical engineering, and biomedical sciences. Singapore was ranked 4th in the ] in 2024 and 7th in 2022.<ref>{{Cite book |author=] |year=2024 |title=Global Innovation Index 2024: Unlocking the Promise of Social Entrepreneurship |url=https://www.wipo.int/web-publications/global-innovation-index-2024/en/ |access-date=2024-10-06 |website=www.wipo.int |page=18 |publisher=World Intellectual Property Organization |language=en |doi=10.34667/tind.50062 |isbn=978-92-805-3681-2}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=WIPO |title=Global Innovation Index 2023, 15th Edition |url=https://www.wipo.int/global_innovation_index/en/2023/index.html |access-date=17 October 2023 |date=23 October 2023 |publisher=World Intellectual Property Organization |doi=10.34667/tind.46596 |isbn=9789280534320 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=WIPO |title=Global Innovation Index 2022, 15th Edition |url=https://www.wipo.int/global_innovation_index/en/2022/index.html |access-date=16 November 2022 |year=2022 |publisher=World Intellectual Property Organization |doi=10.34667/tind.46596 |isbn=9789280534320}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=RTD – Item |url=https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/rtd/items/691898|access-date=2 September 2021 |website=ec.europa.eu}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=28 October 2013 |title=Global Innovation Index |url=https://knowledge.insead.edu/entrepreneurship-innovation/global-innovation-index-2930|access-date=2 September 2021 |website=INSEAD Knowledge|archive-date=2 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210902101622/https://knowledge.insead.edu/entrepreneurship-innovation/global-innovation-index-2930|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2019, there were more than 60 semiconductor companies in Singapore, which together constituted 11% of the global market share. The semiconductor industry alone contributes around 7% of Singapore's GDP.<ref>{{cite news |title=Heng upbeat about semiconductor industry's prospects |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/business/companies-markets/heng-upbeat-about-semiconductor-industrys-prospects |work=Straits Times |date=18 September 2019}}</ref> | |||
] is ] in Singapore since 2000. The literacy rate is one of the highest in Asia, at 95%.<ref> {{cite web | url=http://www.singstat.gov.sg/keystats/annual/sib/sib2006.pdf | title=Singapore in Brief 2006, Singapore Department of Statistics | accessdate=2006-05-01 | format=PDF}}</ref> | |||
Singapore's largest companies are in the telecommunications, banking, transportation, and manufacturing sectors, many of which started as state-run ]s and have since been publicly listed on the ]. Such companies include ] (Singtel), ], ], ] (OCBC), ] (DBS), and ] (UOB). In 2011, amidst the global financial crisis, OCBC, DBS and UOB were ranked by '']'' as the world's 1st, 5th, and 6th strongest banks in the world, respectively.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2011-05-09/ocbc-world-s-strongest-bank-in-singapore-with-canadians-dominating-ranking|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016034143/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2011-05-09/ocbc-world-s-strongest-bank-in-singapore-with-canadians-dominating-ranking|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 October 2015 |title=Singapore's OCBC Strongest Bank as Canadians Dominate |date=10 May 2011 |work=Bloomberg Business |location=New York}}</ref> It is home to the headquarters of 3 ] companies, the highest in the region.<ref>{{cite web |title=Global 500 |url=https://fortune.com/global500/2020/|access-date=23 October 2020 |website=]}}</ref> | |||
The standard for the school curriculum is set by the ] with a mix of ]s and ]s. There is no strict public-private dichotomy: the degree of autonomy, regarding curriculum and student admission, government funding received, and ] burden on the students is further classified into "government-run", "government-aided", "autonomous", "independent", and "privately-funded".<ref> {{cite web | url= http://www.moe.gov.sg/corporate/secondary_02.htm|title=Education System:Secondary|accessdate=2006-05-01 }}</ref> In addition, ]s catered to ] students, which sometimes admit local students. | |||
The nation's best known global companies include ], ], and the ], all of which are among the most-awarded in their respective fields. Singapore Airlines was ranked as Asia's most-admired company, and the world's 19th most-admired company in 2015 by '']''{{'}}s annual "50 most admired companies in the world" industry surveys. Other awards it has received include the US-based '']''{{'}}s Best International Airline award, which it has won for 20 consecutive years.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://business.asiaone.com/news/sia-tops-asian-list-among-50-most-admired-global-firms |title=SIA tops Asian list among 50 most admired global firms |date=26 February 2015 |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore|url-status=dead|archive-url=http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20150922111020/http://business.asiaone.com/news/sia-tops-asian-list-among-50-most-admired-global-firms|archive-date=22 September 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://fortune.com/2015/07/07/worlds-best-airlines/ |title=The world's best airlines |date=7 July 2015 |work=Fortune |location=New York}}</ref> Changi Airport connects over 100 airlines to more than 300 cities. The strategic international air hub has more than 480 World's Best Airport awards {{As of|2015|lc=y}}, and is known as the most-awarded airport in the world.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion/lee-kuan-yew-dies/lee-kuan-yew-truly-the-father-of-changi-airport |title=Lee Kuan Yew, truly the father of Changi airport |date=12 September 2015 |work=The Business Times |location=Singapore}}</ref> Over ten ]s have been signed with other countries and regions.<ref name="govt.nz" /> Singapore is the second-largest foreign investor in India.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporebusinessnews/view/1104667/1/.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120722162407/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporebusinessnews/view/1104667/1/.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=22 July 2012 |title=S'pore is India's second-largest foreign investor |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |location=Singapore |date=14 January 2011 |author=Ramesh, S.}}</ref> It is the 14th largest exporter and the 15th largest importer in the world.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://exportbritain.org.uk/market-snapshots/singapore.html |title=Singapore |website=Export Britain|access-date=7 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170820040124/http://exportbritain.org.uk/market-snapshots/singapore.html|archive-date=20 August 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Perspectives on the Security of Singapore: The First 50 Years |isbn=978-981-4689-33-5 |page=128 |last1=Desker |first1=Barry |last2=Ang |first2=Cheng Guan |date=22 July 2015 |publisher=World Scientific}}</ref> | |||
There have also been complaints about excessive ] at a young age; a popular local film, '']'', highlights the competitiveness of the system and ] that students struggling with studies have to face. | |||
=== Tourism === | |||
After primary education, students take the ] (PSLE). After secondary education, a further set of examinations are taken which determine their individual subject mastery and which kind of ] they can pursue, such as ]s or ], which provide a 2-year or 3-year pre-university education route to the universities, or ]s, where students will graduate with a ]. There are currently ]; ], ], ] and ]. There are also five polytechnics (], ], ], ] and ]) in the country. | |||
{{Main|Tourism in Singapore}} | |||
], the official mascot of Singapore]] | |||
Tourism is a major industry and contributor to the ], attracting 13.6 million international tourists in 2023, more than double Singapore's total population.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2024/02/01/singapore-tourist-arrivals-double-in-2023-thanks-to-china-indonesia-malaysia.html |title=Singapore tourist arrivals double in 2023 amid global travel recovery |author=Lim Hui Jie |date=1 February 2024 |website=CNBC.com |access-date=23 October 2024}}</ref> Tourism contributed directly to about 3% of Singapore's GPD, on average, in the 10 years before 2023, excluding the ] years.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.stb.gov.sg/content/stb/en/about-stb/overview.html |title=Overview |year=2024 |website=Singapore Tourism Board |access-date=23 October 2024}}</ref> Altogether, the sector generated approximately 8.6% of Singapore's employment in 2016.<ref name=WTTCreport2017>{{cite web |title=World Travel and Tourism Council 2017 Singapore report |url=https://www.wttc.org/-/media/files/reports/benchmark-reports/country-reports-2017/singapore.pdf |publisher=]|access-date= 23 October 2019|archive-date= 23 October 2019|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20191023135628/https://www.wttc.org/-/media/files/reports/benchmark-reports/country-reports-2017/singapore.pdf|url-status= dead}}</ref> | |||
In 2004, a programme called ] was created to remove the necessity of taking ] examinations at Secondary 4, for more academically inclined students at certain secondary schools. | |||
In 2015, ] and '']'' listed Singapore as their top and 6th-best world destinations to visit, respectively.<ref>{{cite news |title=52 Places to Visit in 2015 |date=1 January 2015 |newspaper=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2015/01/11/travel/52-places-to-go-in-2015.html|access-date=11 December 2015}}</ref> Well-known landmarks include the ],<ref>{{cite web |title=Merlion {{!}} Infopedia|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_938_2004-12-27.html|website=eresources.nlb.gov.sg|access-date=31 May 2020}}</ref> the ],<ref name=":2">{{cite web |title=Singapore's most iconic landmarks |url=https://www.visitsingapore.com/editorials/singapore-most-iconic-landmarks/ |access-date=29 April 2022 |website=visitsingapore.com}}</ref> ],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Marina Bay Sands |url=https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/recreation-leisure/resorts/marina-bay-sands/ |website=visitsingapore.com|access-date=31 May 2020}}</ref> ],<ref>{{cite web |title=Gardens by the Bay |url=https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/architecture/modern/gardens-by-the-bay/ |website=visitsingapore.com|access-date=31 May 2020}}</ref> ],<ref>{{cite web |title=Jewel Changi Airport |url=https://www.visitsingapore.com/travel-guide-tips/travelling-to-singapore/changi-airport-singapore/jewel-changi-airport/ |website=visitsingapore.com|access-date=31 May 2020}}</ref> ],<ref name=":2" /> ],<ref name=":2" /> the ],<ref name=":2" /> the ] shopping belt,<ref name="Orchard" /> the resort island of ],<ref>{{cite web |title=Overview |url=https://www.sentosa.gov.sg/who-we-are/overview/ |website=sentosa.gov.sg|access-date=28 May 2020}}</ref> and the ], Singapore's first ],<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-botanic-gardens-clinches-prestigious-unesco-world-heritage-site-status |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |title=Singapore Botanic Gardens clinches prestigious Unesco World Heritage site status |date=4 July 2015 |access-date=25 May 2020}}</ref> all located in southern and eastern Singapore. | |||
Other institutes include a teaching college to train teachers, various ]s, and ] institutes such as the ] (ITE). ], one of the leading business school in the world, has opened a second campus in Singapore in 2001. In parallel to the original France based campus, it offers ] and Executive-MBA courses. | |||
]]] | |||
The ] (STB) is the ] under the ] which is tasked with the promotion of the country's tourism industry. In August 2017 the STB and the Economic Development Board (EDB) unveiled a unified brand, Singapore – ], to market Singapore internationally for tourism and business purposes.<ref>{{cite press release |url=https://www.stb.gov.sg/news-and-publications/lists/newsroom/dispform.aspx?ID=713 |title=Singapore Tourism Board and Singapore Economic Development Board launch Passion Made Possible Brand for Singapore |date=24 August 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20181214201902/https://www.stb.gov.sg/news-and-publications/lists/newsroom/dispform.aspx?ID=713 |archive-date=14 December 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> The ] district, which contains multi-storey shopping centres and hotels, can be considered the centre of shopping and tourism in Singapore.<ref name="Orchard">{{cite web |url=https://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/places-to-see/orchard/ |title=Orchard Road: A shopping paradise |publisher=Singapore Tourism Board|access-date=27 August 2019}}</ref> Other popular tourist attractions include the ], ], ] and ] (located in Northern Singapore). The Singapore Zoo has embraced the open zoo concept whereby animals are kept in enclosures, separated from visitors by hidden dry or wet moats, instead of caging the animals, and the River Wonders has 300 species of animals, including numerous endangered species.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_403_2005-01-19.html |title=Singapore Zoo |publisher=National Library Board|access-date=27 August 2019 |date=22 July 2014}}</ref> Singapore promotes itself as a ] hub, with about 200,000 foreigners seeking medical care there each year. Singapore medical services aim to serve at least one million foreign patients annually and generate US$3 billion in revenue.<ref>{{cite news |last=Dogra |first=Sapna|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051026013526/http://www.expresshealthcaremgmt.com/20050731/medicaltourism01.shtml|archive-date=26 October 2005 |url=http://www.expresshealthcaremgmt.com/20050731/medicaltourism01.shtml |date=16 July 2005 |location=Mumbai |title=Medical tourism boom takes Singapore by storm |newspaper=Express Healthcare Management}}</ref> | |||
== Demographics == | |||
In 1999, the Ministry of Education started the ] (PRIME) to upgrade school buildings, many of which were built over 20 to 30 years ago, in phases at a cost of S$4.5 billion. <ref>{{cite web | |||
{{Main|Demographics of Singapore|Singaporeans}} | |||
|url = http://www.moe.gov.sg/prime/prime.htm | |||
{{See also|Race in Singapore}} | |||
|title = Programme For Rebuilding and Improving Existing schools (PRIME) | |||
]), Malay (]), and Indian (]) women in Singapore, {{Circa|1890}}. To promote racial harmony among the three races, a unique ] is celebrated on 21 July every year.]] | |||
|publisher = MOE-PRIME, Ministry of Education| accessdate = 2007-05-15}}</ref> This programme achieves to provide a better school environment for the students by upgrading school buildings to latest standards. In 2005, the Flexible School Infrastructure (FlexSI) framework was implemented through the building of modular classrooms which can be opened up for larger lectures, and allowing a school's staff members to mould their school's designs to suit the school's unique identity and culture. At the same time, an ] will be provided to every school so that schools can carry out ] lessons in inclement weather.<ref>{{cite web | |||
As of mid-2023, the estimated population of Singapore was 5,917,600, of whom 3,610,700 (61.6%) were ] and the remaining 2,306,900 (38.4%) were either ] (522,300) or ]s, ]s, or ]s (1,644,500).<ref name="Population and Population Structure">{{cite web |title=Population and Population Structure |publisher=Department of Statistics Singapore |url=https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/population/population-and-population-structure/latest-data|access-date=16 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231116052657/https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/population/population-and-population-structure/latest-data |archive-date=16 November 2023}}</ref> The overall population increased 5% from the prior year, driven largely by foreign workers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kok |first=Xinghui |title=Singapore's population grows 5% as foreign workers return post-pandemic |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/singapores-population-grows-5-foreign-workers-return-post-pandemic-2023-09-29/ |website=Reuters}}</ref> This proportion is largely unchanged from the 2010 census.<ref name=2010census>{{cite report |url=http://www.singstat.gov.sg/pubn/popn/c2010acr.pdf |title=Census of Population 2010 Advance Census Release |pages=13–16 |isbn=978-981-08-6819-2|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120327064912/http://www.singstat.gov.sg/pubn/popn/c2010acr.pdf|archive-date=27 March 2012|url-status=dead |publisher=Singapore Department of Statistics |year=2010|access-date=2 July 2011}}</ref><ref name="un.org">, United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division (2009).</ref> | |||
|url = http://www.moe.gov.sg/press/2007/pr20070214.htm | |||
|title = Eight More Schools to Benefit from Upgrading | |||
|publisher = Ministry of Education Press Releases| accessdate=2007-05-15}}</ref> | |||
The 2020 census reported that about 74.3% of residents were of Chinese descent, 13.5% of Malay descent, 9.0% of Indian descent, and 3.2% of other descent (such as ]); this proportion was virtually identical to the 2010 census, with slight increases among Chinese and Malay (0.2% and 0.1% respectively) and minor decreases in Indian and others (0.2% and 0.1%).<ref>, '''p. 20'''.</ref><ref name=2010census /> Prior to 2010, each person could register as a member of only one race, by default that of his or her father; therefore, mixed-race persons were solely grouped under their father's race in government censuses. From 2010 onward, people may register using a multi-racial classification, in which they may choose one primary race and one secondary race, but no more than two.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1030142/1/.html |title=Singaporeans of mixed race allowed to 'double barrel' race in IC |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |location=Singapore |author=Hoe Yeen Nie |date=12 January 2010 |access-date=18 February 2011 |archive-date=6 February 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100206100917/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1030142/1/.html |url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
==Transport== | |||
{{main|Transport in Singapore}} | |||
Like other developed countries in Asia, Singapore experienced a rapid decline in its ] (TFR) beginning in the 1980s.<ref name="imf.org">{{Cite web |title=Lessons from Singapore on Raising Fertility Rates – IMF F&D |url=https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/fandd/issues/2020/03/lessons-from-singapore-on-raising-fertility-rates-tan |access-date=22 January 2024 |website=IMF |language=en}}</ref> Since 2010, its TFR has largely plateaued at 1.1 children per woman, which is among the lowest in the world and well below the 2.1 needed to replace the population.<ref>{{Cite web |title=World Bank Open Data |url=https://data.worldbank.org/ |access-date=22 January 2024 |website=World Bank Open Data |quote=Fertility rate, total (births per woman) – Singapore; ( 1 ) United Nations Population Division. World Population Prospects: 2022 Revision. ( 2 ) Census reports and other statistical publications from national statistical offices, ( 3 ) Eurostat: Demographic Statistics, ( 4 ) United Nations Statistical Division. Population and Vital Statistics Report ( various years ), ( 5 ) U.S. Census Bureau: International Database, and ( 6 ) Secretariat of the Pacific Community: Statistics and Demography Programme.}}</ref> Consequently, the median age of Singaporean residents is among the highest in the world, at 42.8 in 2022 compared to 39.6 ten years earlier.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Singapore: citizen population median age 1970–2022 |url=https://www.statista.com/statistics/1304574/singapore-citizen-population-median-age/ |access-date=22 January 2024 |website=Statista |language=en}}</ref> Starting in 2001, the government ] to increase fertility, including paid maternity leave, childcare subsidies, tax relief and rebates, one-time cash gifts, and grants for companies that implement flexible work arrangements;<ref name="imf.org"/> nevertheless, live births have continued to decline, hitting a record low in 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jacob |first=Charmaine |date=18 September 2023 |title=Singapore's birth rate is at a record low — but 'throwing money' at the problem won't solve it |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2023/09/18/singapores-birth-rate-is-falling-and-throwing-money-at-the-problem-wont-solve-it-.html |access-date=22 January 2024 |website=CNBC |language=en}}</ref> Singapore's immigration policy is designed to alleviate the decline and maintain its working-age population.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/257208/1/.html |title=Singapore's birth trend outlook remains dismal |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |location=Singapore |date=7 February 2007 |first=Julia |last=Ng|access-date=22 April 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120105180711/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/257208/1/.html|archive-date=5 January 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=O'Callaghan |first1=John |title=Tiny Singapore risks economic gloom without big baby boom |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-singapore-babies/tiny-singapore-risks-economic-gloom-without-big-baby-boom-idUKLNE87U00H20120831 |access-date=17 May 2021 |work=Reuters |date=31 August 2012}}</ref><ref>Jessica Pan and Walter Theseira, – Background paper to the World Development Report 2023: Migrants, Refugees, and Societies (April 2023)</ref> | |||
===International=== | |||
91% of resident households (i.e. households headed by a Singapore citizen or permanent resident) own the homes they live in, and the average household size is 3.43 persons (which include dependants who are neither citizens nor permanent residents).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/households/households/latest-data |title=Statistics Singapore – Latest Data – Households & Housing|access-date=27 February 2015}}</ref><ref name=singstat2014h&h>{{cite web |url=http://www.singstat.gov.sg/statistics/latest-data#20 |title=Statistics Singapore – Latest Data – Households & Housing |year=2014 |publisher=Statistics Singapore|access-date=20 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151129094649/http://www.singstat.gov.sg/statistics/latest-data#20|archive-date=29 November 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, due to scarcity of land, 78.7% of resident households live in ] developed by the ] (HDB). Also, 75.9% of resident households live in properties that are equal to, or larger than, a four-room (i.e. three bedrooms plus one living room) HDB flat or in private housing.<ref>{{cite web |title=Singapore Resident Households by dwellings |url=https://www.singstat.gov.sg/modules/infographics/-/media/Files/visualising_data/infographics/Population/singapore-population13022019|access-date=15 February 2015|archive-date=15 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215160407/https://www.singstat.gov.sg/modules/infographics/-/media/Files/visualising_data/infographics/Population/singapore-population13022019|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="hdb">{{cite web |url=http://www.hdb.gov.sg/fi10/fi10320p.nsf/w/HDBWinsUNAward?OpenDocument|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111211145036/http://www.hdb.gov.sg/fi10/fi10320p.nsf/w/HDBWinsUNAward?OpenDocument|url-status=dead|archive-date=11 December 2011 |title=HDB InfoWEB: HDB Wins the 2010 UN-HABITAT Scroll of Honour Award |publisher=Hdb.gov.sg|access-date=14 October 2013}}</ref> Live-in foreign ]s are quite common in Singapore, with about 224,500 foreign domestic workers there, as of December 2013.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/more-than-1-3-million/1297688.html |title=More than 1.3 million foreigners working in Singapore: Tan Chuan-Jin |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |location=Singapore |date=5 August 2014|access-date=26 October 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140914232514/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/more-than-1-3-million/1297688.html|archive-date=14 September 2014}}</ref> | |||
Singapore is a major Asian transportation hub, strategically lying on the midpoints of certain sea and air trade routes. The transportation industry comprises over 10% of Singapore's GDP despite an increasingly diversified economy.{{Fact|date=April 2007}} | |||
{{Largest planning areas of Singapore}} | |||
=== Religion === | |||
The ], managed by port operators ] and ], was the world's busiest port in 2005 in terms of shipping tonnage handled, at 1.15 billion ]s, and in terms of ]ised traffic, at 23.2 million ]s (TEUs). It was also the world's second busiest in terms of cargo tonnage, coming behind ] with 423 million tons handled. In addition, the Port is the world's busiest for ] traffic and the world's biggest ship refuelling center.<ref> {{cite news | title = Singapore remains world's busiest port | url = http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2006-01/12/content_4045562.htm | date = 12 January 2006 | publisher = Xinhuanet }} </ref> | |||
{{Main|Religion in Singapore}} | |||
Most major religious denominations are present in Singapore, with the Inter-Religious Organisation, Singapore (IRO) recognising 10 major religions in the city state.<ref>{{cite web |title=Introduction – Inter-Religious Organisation, Singapore |url=https://iro.sg/about-iro/ |access-date=10 July 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref> A 2014 analysis by the ] found Singapore to be the world's most religiously diverse nation, with no single religion claiming a majority.<ref>{{cite web |date=4 April 2014 |title=Global Religious Diversity |url=https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2014/04/04/global-religious-diversity/ |access-date=10 July 2022 |website=Pew Research Center's Religion & Public Life Project |language=en-US}}</ref>{{bar box | |||
|title=Religion in Singapore, 2020<ref name="census2020" /> | |||
|titlebar=#ddd | |||
|left1=Religion | |||
|right1=Percent | |||
|float=right | |||
|bars= | |||
{{bar percent|]|gold|31.1}} | |||
{{bar percent|]|grey|20.0}} | |||
{{bar percent|]|purple|18.9}} | |||
{{bar percent|]|green|15.6}} | |||
{{bar percent|]|red|8.8}} | |||
{{bar percent|]|orange|5.0}} | |||
{{bar percent|Other religions|blue|0.6}} | |||
}} | |||
] is the most widely practised religion, with 31% of residents declaring themselves adherents in the 2020 census. ] was the second largest religion at 18.9%, followed by ] (15.6%), ] and ] (8.8%) and ] (5.0%). One-fifth of the population had no religious affiliation. The proportion of Christians, Muslims, and the nonreligious slightly increased between 2010 and 2020, while the proportion of Buddhists and Taoists slightly decreased; Hinduism and other faiths remained largely stable in their share of the population.<ref name=2010censuspercentage>{{cite press release |url=http://www.singstat.gov.sg/news/news/press12012011.pdf |title=Census of population 2010: Statistical Release 1 on Demographic Characteristics, Education, Language and Religion |publisher=Singapore Department of Statistics |date=12 January 2011 |access-date=16 January 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110124160522/http://www.singstat.gov.sg/news/news/press12012011.pdf |archive-date=24 January 2011}}</ref> | |||
Singapore is an aviation center, acting as a stopover point for the ']' between ] and ]. ] has a network of 81 airlines connecting Singapore to 179 cities in 57 countries (2005). It has been consistently rated as one of the best international airports by numerous international travel magazines. It was rated as the world's best airport in 2006 by ], defeating its long time rival, ].<ref> {{cite web | title =2006 Airport of the Year result | accessdate=2006-06-01 | url = http://www.worldairportawards.com/Awards-2006/AirportYear-2006.htm }} </ref> The airport currently has two passenger terminals, with a third under construction, and there are plans for a fourth terminal. The national carrier is ] (SIA). | |||
Singapore hosts monasteries and ] centres from all three major traditions of Buddhism: ], ], and ]. Most Buddhists in Singapore are Chinese and adhere to the Mahayana tradition,<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GBdX2ELnkXQC&pg=PR8 |title=State, society, and religious engineering: toward a reformist Buddhism in Singapore |author=Khun Eng Kuah |publisher=Institute of Southeast Asian Studies |location=Singapore |access-date=1 November 2010 |isbn=978-981-230-865-8 |year=2009}}</ref> owing to decades of missionary activity from China. However, ] has seen growing popularity among the populace (not only the Chinese) during the past decade. ], a Japanese Buddhist organisation, is practised by many people in Singapore, and mostly by those of Chinese descent. ] has also made slow inroads into the country in recent years.<ref>{{cite news |title=Modernity in south-east Asia |publisher=Informaworld |date=2 December 1995}}</ref> | |||
Singapore is linked to ], ] via the ] and the ], as well as a ] operated by ] of ], with its southern ] at ]. Frequent ferry service to several nearby Indonesian ports also exists. | |||
=== Languages === | |||
] at ] on the ] (MRT) system, one of three heavy rail passenger transport lines in Singapore.]] | |||
{{Main|Languages of Singapore}} | |||
Singapore has four official languages: ], ], ], and ].<ref name="statutes.agc.gov.sg">{{Singapore legislation|title=Republic of Singapore Independence Act|ed=1985}}, s7.</ref> | |||
{{bar box | |||
|title=Language used most frequently at home<ref name="census2020" /> | |||
|titlebar=#ddd | |||
|left1=Language | |||
|right1=Percent | |||
|float=right | |||
|bars= | |||
{{bar percent|English|blue|48.3}} | |||
{{bar percent|Mandarin|yellow|29.9}} | |||
{{bar percent|Malay|red|9.2}} | |||
{{bar percent|Other Sinitic languages|purple|8.7}} | |||
{{bar percent|Tamil|green|2.5}} | |||
{{bar percent|Others|grey|1.4}} | |||
}} | |||
English is the ]<ref name="Gupta 244–263">{{cite journal |url=http://www.leeds.ac.uk/english/staff/afg/pragp3.doc |title=Epistemic modalities and the discourse particles of Singapore |first=A.F. |last=Gupta |editor=Fischer, K. |format=DOC |journal=Approaches to Discourse Particles |publisher=Elsevier |location=Amsterdam |pages=244–263|access-date=2 February 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110205010214/http://www.leeds.ac.uk/english/staff/afg/pragp3.doc|archive-date=5 February 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Dixon, L. Quentin 2005 p. 625-635" /><ref name=autogenerated1>{{cite press release |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/speeches/2000/sp31032000a.htm |date=31 March 2000 |title=Global Literacy: The advantage of speaking good English |publisher=Ministry of Education |access-date=27 January 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120306034004/http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/speeches/2000/sp31032000a.htm|archive-date=6 March 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=TanShermanp340-341>Tan, Sherman, p. 340–341. "The four recognised official languages are English, Mandarin, Tamil, and Malay, but in practice, English is Singapore's default lingua franca."</ref> and the main language used in business, government, law and education.<ref name="Britishcouncil">{{cite web |url=http://www.britishcouncil.org/eumd-partnership-webzine-october-2010-country-focus.htm#singapore|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110402172957/http://www.britishcouncil.org/eumd-partnership-webzine-october-2010-country-focus.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=2 April 2011 |title=Education UK Partnership – Country focus |date=October 2010 |publisher=]|access-date=27 February 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/speeches/2010/04/19/speech-by-mr-s-iswaran-at-the-apec-relc-int-seminar-opening-ceremony.php|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110519070557/http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/speeches/2010/04/19/speech-by-mr-s-iswaran-at-the-apec-relc-int-seminar-opening-ceremony.php|url-status=dead|archive-date=19 May 2011 |title=Speech by Mr S. Iswaran, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Trade and Industry and Ministry of Education |date=19 April 2010 |publisher=Ministry of Education}}</ref> The ] and all government legislation is written in English, and ] are required if a language other than English is used in the ].<ref>{{cite web |title=What do I do if I can't speak English? |url=http://app.subcourts.gov.sg/criminal/page.aspx?pageid=64541#faq13-9|access-date=11 October 2011 |publisher=Singapore Subordinate Courts|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100709074333/http://app.subcourts.gov.sg/criminal/page.aspx?pageid=64541|archive-date=9 July 2010}}</ref><ref>{{Singapore legislation|title=Constitution}}</ref> ]s conduct their businesses in English, while any official documents written in a non-English official language such as Malay, Mandarin, or Tamil are typically translated into English to be accepted for use.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.careers.gov.sg/the-singapore-public-service/public-agencies|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150106063743/http://www.careers.gov.sg/the-singapore-public-service/public-agencies|url-status=dead|archive-date=6 January 2015 |title=Public Agencies |date=6 January 2015|access-date=21 September 2018}}</ref><ref name="Dixon, L. Quentin 2005 p. 625-635">Dixon, L. Quentin. (2005). The Bilingual Education Policy in Singapore: Implications for Second Language Acquisition. In James Cohen, J., McAlister, K. T., Rolstad, K., and MacSwan, J (Eds.), ''ISB4: Proceedings of the 4th International Symposium on Bilingualism''. p. 625–635, Cascadilla Press, Somerville, MA.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/speeches/2000/sp31032000a.htm |title=31 March 2000 |publisher=Moe.gov.sg|access-date=27 January 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120306034004/http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/speeches/2000/sp31032000a.htm|archive-date=6 March 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
===Domestic=== | |||
] was designated as a national language by the Singaporean government after independence from Britain in the 1960s to avoid friction with Singapore's Malay-speaking neighbours of Malaysia and Indonesia.<ref name="thirdworldtofirst" /> It has a symbolic, rather than functional purpose.<ref name="statutes.agc.gov.sg" /><ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=CQgjrpgdU6gC&pg=PA42 |title=Language and society in Singapore |publisher=Singapore University Press |first1=Evangelos A. |last1=Afendras |first2=Eddie C.Y. |last2=Kuo |year=1980 |isbn=978-9971-69-016-8 |access-date=27 February 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LMZm0w0k1c4C&pg=PA2018 |title=Sociolinguistics: An international handbook of the science of language and society |publisher=Walter de Gruyter |location=Berlin |first1=Ulrich |last1=Ammon |first2=Norbert |last2=Dittmar |first3=Klaus J. |last3=Mattheier |volume=3 |year=2006 |isbn=978-3-11-018418-1 |access-date=27 February 2011}}</ref> It is used in the national anthem '']'',<ref>{{Singapore legislation |title=Singapore Arms and Flag and National Anthem Act |cap=296 |ed=1985}}</ref> in citations of ] and in military commands.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.singstat.gov.sg/pubn/papers/people/c2000adr-literacy.pdf |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20091113162718/http://www.singstat.gov.sg/pubn/papers/people/c2000adr-literacy.pdf |archive-date=13 November 2009 |url-status=dead |title=Literacy and Language |publisher=Singapore Statistics |access-date=27 February 2011}}</ref><ref name="singstat1" /> Singaporean Malay is officially written in the Latin-based ], though some Singaporean Malays also learn the Arabic-based ].<ref>{{cite book |last1=Cook |first1=Vivian |last2=Bassetti |first2=Benedetta |title=Second Language Writing Systems |date=2005 |publisher=Multilingual Matters |isbn=978-1-85359-793-0 |page=359 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=yDLVaYJkyHUC}}</ref> Jawi is considered an ethnic script for use on Singaporean identity cards.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ica.gov.sg/page.aspx?pageid=140 |title=Update Change of Name in IC |publisher=Immigration and Checkpoints Authority |access-date=29 January 2017 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170202101218/https://www.ica.gov.sg/page.aspx?pageid=140 |archive-date=2 February 2017}}</ref> | |||
The domestic transport infrastructure has a well-connected island-wide ] which includes a ]. The public road system is served by the ] and a number of licensed ]-operating companies. | |||
Singaporeans are mostly ], typically with English as their common language and their ] as a second language taught in schools, in order to preserve each individual's ethnic identity and values. According to the 2020 census, English was the language most spoken at home, used by 48.3% of the population; Mandarin was next, spoken at home by 29.9%.<ref name="singstat1">{{cite web |url=https://www.singstat.gov.sg/docs/default-source/default-document-library/publications/publications_and_papers/GHS/ghs2015/findings.pdf |title=General Household Survey 2015 |year=2015|access-date=15 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171215063843/http://www.singstat.gov.sg/docs/default-source/default-document-library/publications/publications_and_papers/GHS/ghs2015/findings.pdf|archive-date=15 December 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="BBC">{{cite news |last=Oi |first=Mariko |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-11468401 |title=Singapore's booming appetite to study Mandarin |publisher=BBC News |date=5 October 2010|access-date=27 February 2011}}</ref> Nearly half a million speak other ancestral Southern ], mainly ], ], and ], as their home language, although the use of these is declining in favour of Mandarin or just English.<ref name="singstat.gov.sg">{{cite web |year=2005 |title=General Household Survey 2005, Statistical Release 1: Socio-Demographic and Economic Characteristics |url=https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/population/education-language-spoken-and-literacy/visualising-data|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120326052305/http://www.singstat.gov.sg/pubn/popn/ghsr1/chap2.pdf|archive-date=26 March 2012|access-date=11 November 2010 |website= |publisher=Singapore Statistics}}</ref> ] are written using ].<ref>{{cite book |last1=Fagao Zhou |title=Papers in Chinese Linguistics and Epigraphy |date=1986 |publisher=Chinese University Press |isbn=978-962-201-317-9 |page=56 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NEzEo5Y8B3oC|access-date=31 January 2017}}</ref> | |||
Since 1987, the heavy rail passenger ] (MRT) ] system has been in operation. MRT has been further augmented by the ] (LRT) ] system, which provides service to ]s. The ] system allows contactless ] to serve as stored value tickets for use in the public transport systems. | |||
] is largely based on ], owing to the country's status as a former ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.nlb.gov.sg/ask/children/481 |title=What are some commonly misspelled English words?<nowiki>|</nowiki>ASK!ASK!|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120303222846/https://blogs.nlb.gov.sg/ask/children/481|archive-date=3 March 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.nlb.gov.sg/ask/children/481 |title=What are some commonly misspelled English words? |publisher=National Library Board |location=Singapore |date=18 April 2008|access-date=18 February 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120303222846/https://blogs.nlb.gov.sg/ask/children/481|archive-date=3 March 2012}}</ref> However, forms of English spoken in Singapore range from ] to a colloquial form known as ], which is discouraged by the government as it claims it to be a substandard ] that handicaps Singaporeans, presenting an obstacle to learning standard English and rendering the speaker incomprehensible to everyone except to another Singlish speaker.<ref>{{cite news |author=Tan Hwee Hwee |url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,501020729-322685,00.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070429011917/http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,501020729-322685,00.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=29 April 2007 |title=A war of words is brewing over Singlish |newspaper=Time |location=New York |date=22 July 2002|access-date=18 February 2011}}</ref> Standard Singapore English is fully understandable to all ] speakers, while most English-speaking people do not understand Singlish. Nevertheless, Singaporeans have a strong sense of identity and connection to Singlish, whereby the existence of Singlish is recognised as a distinctive cultural marker for many Singaporeans.<ref name=":3">{{cite web |last=Harbeck |first=James |date=19 September 2016 |title=The language the government tried to suppress |url=https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20160919-the-language-the-government-tried-to-suppress |access-date=1 May 2022 |publisher=]}}</ref> As such, in recent times, the government has tolerated the ] of both Singlish and Standard English (only for those who are fluent in both), whilst continuously reinforcing the importance of Standard English amongst those who speak only Singlish (which is not ] with the Standard English of other ]).<ref name=":3" /> | |||
More than 2.78 million people use the bus network daily, while more than 1.3 million people use either the LRT or MRT as part of their daily routine.<ref> {{cite web | title =2006 Average Daily Ridership | accessdate=2007-06-07 | url = http://www.lta.gov.sg/corp_info/doc/Average%20Daily%20Public%20Transport%20Ridership.pdf? }} </ref> Approximately 991,000 people use the taxi services daily.<ref> {{cite web | title =2006 Average Daily Ridership | accessdate=2007-06-07 | url = http://www.lta.gov.sg/corp_info/doc/Average%20Daily%20Public%20Transport%20Ridership.pdf? }} </ref> Private vehicle use in the Central Area is discouraged by ]s implemented during hours of heavy road traffic, through an ] system. Private vehicle ownership is discouraged using high vehicle taxes and imposing ]. | |||
== Education == | |||
==Major International rankings== | |||
{{Main|Education in Singapore}} | |||
] heading west]] | |||
] is one of six ] in the city-state.]] | |||
;Economic | |||
Education for primary, secondary, and tertiary levels is mostly supported by the state. All institutions, public and private, must be registered with the ] (MOE).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/private-education/ |title=Private Education in Singapore |publisher=Ministry of Education |year=2011|access-date=2 July 2011}}</ref> English is the language of instruction in all public schools,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/admissions/international-students/general-info/ |title=International Student Admissions: General Information on Studying in Singapore |publisher=Ministry of Education|access-date=27 February 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110304134017/http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/admissions/international-students/general-info/|archive-date=4 March 2011}}</ref> and all subjects are taught and examined in English except for the "]" language paper.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/scholarships/asean/faq/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080406231811/http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/scholarships/asean/faq/|url-status=dead|archive-date=6 April 2008 |title=ASEAN Scholarships: Frequently Asked Questions |publisher=Ministry of Education|access-date=27 February 2011}}</ref> While the term "mother tongue" in general refers to the first language internationally, in Singapore's education system, it is used to refer to the second language, as English is the first language.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/speeches/2003/sp20030215a.htm |title=Speech by Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Senior Minister of State for Trade & Industry and Education at the Seminar on "The Significance of Speaking Skills For Language Development", organised by the Tamil Language and Culture Division of Nie on 15 February 2003 |publisher=Ministry of Education |date=2 January 2008|access-date=27 February 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110515193809/http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/speeches/2003/sp20030215a.htm|archive-date=15 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1065927/1/.html |title=Mandarin is important but remains a second language in S'pore MM Lee |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |location=Singapore |date=26 June 2010|access-date=27 February 2011|archive-date=30 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170630180427/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1065927/1/.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Students who have been abroad for a while, or who struggle with their "Mother Tongue" language, are allowed to take a simpler syllabus or drop the subject.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/admissions/returning-singaporeans/mother-tongue-policy/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080408195106/http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/admissions/returning-singaporeans/mother-tongue-policy/|url-status=dead|archive-date=8 April 2008 |title=Returning Singaporeans – Mother-Tongue Language Policy |publisher=Ministry of Education|access-date=27 February 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/press/2004/pr20040109.htm |title=Refinements to Mother Tongue Language Policy |publisher=Ministry of Education|access-date=27 February 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110224021851/http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/press/2004/pr20040109.htm|archive-date=24 February 2011}}</ref> | |||
* , ranked 1 out of 175 economies | |||
*]: , ranked 3 out of 60 economies in 2006 (countries and regions) | |||
*]: ], ranked 5 out of 124 economies | |||
*]/]: , ranked 1 out of 62 countries | |||
*]/]: ], ranked 2 out of 155 countries | |||
*]: , ranked 11 out of 111 countries | |||
*]: , ranked 13 out of 68 economies | |||
*]: ] , ranked 12 out of 30 leading exporting economies | |||
*]: ] , ranked 6 out of 50 cities | |||
*]: World's most expensive city for rental accommodation , ranked 15 out of 92 countries | |||
*]: ] , ranked 8 out of 124 countries | |||
*]: , ranked 14 out of 143 cities | |||
Education takes place in three stages: primary, secondary, and pre-university education, with the primary education being compulsory. Students begin with six years of primary school, which is made up of a four-year foundation course and a two-year orientation stage. The curriculum is focused on the development of English, the mother tongue, ], and ].<ref name="Primary">{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/primary/ |title=Primary Education |publisher=Ministry of Education |year=2011|access-date=2 July 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/primary/curriculum/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080407095703/http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/primary/curriculum/|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 April 2008 |title=Primary School Curriculum |publisher=Ministry of Education |year=2011|access-date=2 July 2011}}</ref> Secondary school lasts from four to five years, and is divided between Express, Normal (Academic), and Normal (Technical) streams in each school, depending on a student's ability level.<ref name="Secondary">{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/secondary/ |title=Secondary Education |publisher=Ministry of Education |year=2011|access-date=2 July 2011}}</ref> The basic coursework breakdown is the same as in the primary level, although classes are much more specialised.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/secondary/express/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080407202048/http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/secondary/express/|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 April 2008 |title=Special/Express Courses Curriculum |publisher=Ministry of Education |year=2011|access-date=2 July 2011}}</ref> Pre-university education takes place at either the 21 ] or the ], over a period of two and three years respectively.<ref name="Pre-university">{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/pre-u/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080405194544/http://www.moe.gov.sg/education/pre-u/|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 April 2008 |title=Pre-University Education |publisher=Ministry of Education |year=2011|access-date=2 July 2011}}</ref> As alternatives to pre-university education, however, courses are offered in other post-secondary education institutions, including the 5 polytechnics and 3 ITE colleges. Singapore has six public universities,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/education/how-singapores-six-public-universities-differ |title=How Singapore's six public universities differ |date=3 March 2015 |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore|access-date=23 September 2016}}</ref> of which the ] and ] are among the top 20 universities in the world.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings/world-university-rankings/2015 |title=QS World University Rankings 2015/16 |publisher=QS|access-date=15 November 2016 |date=11 September 2015}}</ref> | |||
;Educational | |||
*]: , ranked 1 out of 46 economies in all four criteria | |||
*]: , ranked 4 out of 227 economies | |||
National examinations are standardised across all schools, with a test taken after each stage. After the first six years of education, students take the ] (PSLE),<ref name="Primary" /> which determines their placement at secondary school. At the end of the secondary stage, ] or ] exams are taken;<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.moe.gov.sg/education/secondary |title=Secondary |publisher=Ministry of Education|access-date=2 December 2016}}</ref> at the end of the following pre-university stage, the ] exams are taken.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.moe.gov.sg/images/default-source/default-album/sg-education-landscape-print9e3a5a33f22f6eceb9b0ff0000fcc945.jpg |title=Singapore's Education System: An Overview |publisher=Ministry of Education|access-date=6 December 2016}}</ref> Some schools have a degree of freedom in their curriculum and are known as autonomous schools, for ] level and above.<ref name="Secondary" /> | |||
;Political | |||
*]: , ranked 5 out of 163 countries and economies | |||
* ] ranked Singapore 5 out of 7 for political freedom, and 4 out of 7 for civil liberties (where 1 is the most free), for an overall ranking of "partly free". | |||
* ]: , ranked 84 out of 167 countries/territories | |||
Singapore is also an education hub, with more than 80,000 international students in 2006.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.eahep.org/asiahigher-education/asian-policy-drivers/127-developing-asian-education-hubs.html |title=Developing Asian education hubs |year=2011 |publisher=EU-Asia Higher Education Platform|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111023215241/http://www.eahep.org/asiahigher-education/asian-policy-drivers/127-developing-asian-education-hubs.html|archive-date=23 October 2011|access-date=12 October 2011}}</ref> 5,000 Malaysian students cross the ] daily to attend schools in Singapore.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://findarticles.com/p/news-articles/new-straits-times/mi_8016/is_20060507/ride/ai_n44321524/ |title=The long, long ride |date=7 May 2006 |work=New Straits Times|access-date=12 October 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130615140344/http://findarticles.com/p/news-articles/new-straits-times/mi_8016/is_20060507/ride/ai_n44321524/|archive-date=15 June 2013 |location=Kuala Lumpur}} </ref> In 2009, 20% of all students in Singaporean universities were international students—the maximum cap allowed, a majority from ], China and India.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/parliamentary-replies/2009/03/foreign-students-in-singapore.php |title=Foreign Students in Singapore |year=2011 |publisher=Ministry of Education|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090409150704/http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/parliamentary-replies/2009/03/foreign-students-in-singapore.php|archive-date=9 April 2009|access-date=12 October 2011}}</ref> | |||
;Social | |||
*]: , ranked 25 out of 177 countries | |||
*]: ], ranked 146 out of 168 countries | |||
*]: , ranked 16 out of 119 countries (tied with Argentina, Republic of Korea, and Uruguay) | |||
* ]: ]: ranked 1 out of 22 countries | |||
Singapore students have excelled in many of the world education benchmarks in maths, science and reading. In 2015, both its primary and secondary students rank first in ]'s global school performance rankings across 76 countries—described as the most comprehensive map of education standards.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2015/05/13/singapore-tops-oecds-global-school-ranking-us-placed-28th.html |title=Singapore tops OECD's global school ranking, US placed 28th |date=13 May 2015 |publisher=CNBC}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/education/singapore-tops-biggest-global-education-rankings-published-by-oecd |title=Singapore tops biggest global education rankings published by OECD |date=13 May 2015 |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore}}</ref> In 2016, Singapore students topped both the ] (PISA)<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/education-38212070 |title=Pisa tests: Singapore top in global education rankings |date=7 December 2016 |publisher=BBC News}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://edition.cnn.com/2016/12/06/world/pisa-global-education-rankings/ |title=PISA: Singapore teens top global education ranking |date=6 December 2016 |publisher=CNN}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.ft.com/content/2e4c61f2-4ec8-11e6-8172-e39ecd3b86fc |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221210/https://www.ft.com/content/2e4c61f2-4ec8-11e6-8172-e39ecd3b86fc |archive-date=10 December 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |title=Why Singapore's kids are so good at maths |date=22 July 2016 |work=Financial Times |location=London}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/spore-teens-top-second-global-test-maths-science-reading |title=S'pore students top in science, maths and reading in Pisa test |newspaper=Today |location=Singapore |date=6 December 2016}}</ref> and the ] (TIMSS).<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/education/singapore-students-top-in-maths-science-and-reading-in-international |title=Singapore students top in maths, science and reading in Pisa international benchmarking test |date=6 December 2016 |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-teenagers-lose-ground-in-international-math-exam-raising-competitiveness-concerns-1481018401 |title=U.S. Teenagers Lose Ground in International Math Exam, Raising Competitiveness Concerns |date=6 December 2016 |work=The Wall Street Journal |location=New York}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/education/2016/dec/06/english-schools-core-subject-test-results-international-oecd-pisa |title=UK Schools climb international league table |date=6 December 2016 |work=The Guardian |location=London}}</ref> In the 2016 EF English Proficiency Index taken in 72 countries, Singapore placed 6th and has been the only Asian country in the top ten.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://asiatimes.com/article/singaporeans-among-top-english-speakers-hong-kong-slides/ |title=Singaporeans among top English speakers; Hong Kong slides |last=Nylander |first=Johan |date=14 November 2016 |newspaper=Asia Times Online |location=Hong Kong|access-date=16 November 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://finance.yahoo.com/news/dutch-pass-danes-become-worlds-080000181.html |title=Dutch Pass Danes to Become World's Best English Speakers |date=15 November 2016 |work=Yahoo News|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170808041145/https://finance.yahoo.com/news/dutch-pass-danes-become-worlds-080000181.html|archive-date=8 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://nordic.businessinsider.com/the-nordics-have-the-highest-english-proficiency-in-the-world---and-its-boosting-their-tech-and-innovation-2016-11 |title=The Nordics have the highest English proficiency in the world – and it's boosting their tech and innovation |date=16 November 2016 |work=Business Insider|access-date=6 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170713204753/http://nordic.businessinsider.com/the-nordics-have-the-highest-english-proficiency-in-the-world---and-its-boosting-their-tech-and-innovation-2016-11|archive-date=13 July 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/how-well-is-english-spoken-worldwide/3597100.html |title=How Well is English Spoken Worldwide? |date=15 November 2016 |work=Voice of America News}}</ref> | |||
;Transportation | |||
*]: , ] ranked 1 out of 155 airports | |||
*]: , ranked 1 | |||
== |
== Healthcare == | ||
{{Main|Healthcare in Singapore}} | |||
{{reflist|2}} | |||
<!-- Instructions for adding a footnote: please refer to http://meta.wikimedia.org/Cite/Cite.php --> | |||
] is the second largest hospital in the city, serving one million patients yearly.]] | |||
==References== | |||
Singapore has a generally efficient healthcare system, even though health expenditures are relatively low for developed countries.<ref name="Wyatt">{{cite web |year=2010 |url=http://www.watsonwyatt.com/europe/pubs/healthcare/render2.asp?ID=13850|archive-url=https://archive.today/20121210052940/http://www.watsonwyatt.com/europe/pubs/healthcare/render2.asp?ID=13850|url-status=dead|archive-date=10 December 2012 |title=The Singapore health system – achieving positive health outcomes with low expenditure |last=Tucci |first=John |publisher=]|access-date=16 March 2011}}</ref> The ] ranks Singapore's healthcare system as 6th overall in the world in its ].<ref name="WHO">{{cite press release |url=https://www.who.int/news/item/07-02-2000-world-health-organization-assesses-the-world's-health-systems |title=World Health Organization Assesses the World's Health Systems |date=7 February 2000 |publisher=World Health Organization |access-date=13 March 2023}}</ref> Singapore has had the ] for the past two decades.<ref name="singstat2014births&deaths">{{cite web |url=http://www.singstat.gov.sg/statistics/latest-data#16 |title=Latest Data – Births & Deaths |publisher=Department of Statistics |year=2014 |access-date=26 April 2015|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20151129094649/http://www.singstat.gov.sg/statistics/latest-data#16 |archive-date=29 November 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2019, Singaporeans had the longest life expectancy of any country at 84.8 years. Women can expect to live an average of 87.6 years with 75.8 years in good health. The averages are lower for men.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/singapore-tops-in-life-expectancy-at-848-years |title=Singaporeans have world's longest life expectancy at 84.8 years |date=20 June 2019 |work=The Straits Times}}</ref> Singapore is ranked 1st on the ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/the-world-s-best-countries-for-food-security.html |title=The World's Best Countries For Food Security |website=worldatlas.com |date=18 April 2019}}</ref> | |||
* {{cite book | author = Diane K. Mauzy & R. S. Milne | title = Singapore Politics: Under the People's Action Party | publisher = Routledge | year = 2002 | id = ISBN 0-415-24653-9}} | |||
* {{cite book | author=Worthington, Ross | title=Governance in Singapore | publisher=Routledge/Curzon|year=2002|id=ISBN 0-7007-1474-X}} | |||
As of December 2011 and January 2013, 8,800 foreigners and 5,400 Singaporeans were respectively diagnosed with HIV,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/government-economy/data-of-14200-people-with-hiv-leaked-online-by-american-fraudstermoh |title=Data of 14,200 people with HIV leaked online by American fraudster: MOH |work=Business Times |location=Singapore |date=28 January 2019}}</ref> but there are fewer than 10 annual deaths from HIV per 100,000 people. Adult obesity is below 10%.<ref name=autogenerated2>{{cite web |url=https://www.who.int/gho/countries/sgp.pdf |title=Singapore: Health Profile |publisher=World Health Organization |location=Geneva |date=13 August 2010|access-date=16 March 2011}}</ref> There is a high level of ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/singapore.html |publisher=Unicef |title=At a glance: Singapore |access-date=27 August 2019 |archive-date=27 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827112425/https://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/singapore.html |url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2013, the ] ranked Singapore as having the best quality of life in Asia and sixth overall in the world.<ref>. ''The Economist''. London. 21 November 2012.</ref> | |||
* {{cite web | title = Census 2000 | work = Singapore Department of Statistics | url = http://www.singstat.gov.sg/keystats/people.html#hhlds | accessmonthday =11 January | accessyear = 2000}} | |||
* {{cite web | title = Key Facts & Figures | work = Ministry of Transport, Singapore | url = http://www.mot.gov.sg/ | accessmonthday = 11 January | accessyear = 2003}} | |||
* {{cite web | title = Nation's History | work = Singapore Infomap | url = http://www.sg/explore/history.htm | accessmonthday = 11 January | accessyear = 2004}} | |||
* {{cite web | title = MOE-PRIME | work = Programme For Rebuilding and IMproving Existing schools (PRIME) | url = http://www.moe.gov.sg/prime/prime.htm | accessmonthday = 15 May | accessyear = 2007}} | |||
* {{cite web | title = Press Releases | work = Eight More Schools to Benefit from Upgrading | url = http://www.moe.gov.sg/press/2007/pr20070214.htm | accessmonthday = 15 May | accessyear = 2007}} | |||
The government's healthcare system is based upon the "3M" framework. This has three components: Medifund, which provides a safety net for those not able to otherwise afford healthcare; ], a compulsory national ] system covering about 85% of the population; and Medishield, a government-funded health insurance program. Public hospitals in Singapore have a considerable autonomy in their management decisions, and notionally compete for patients, but remain in government ownership.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Ramesh |first1=M. |title=Autonomy and Control in Public Hospital Reforms in Singapore |journal=The American Review of Public Administration |date=2008 |volume=38 |issue=1 |page=18 |doi=10.1177/0275074007301041 |s2cid=154781227}}</ref> A subsidy scheme exists for those on low income.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.who.int/whr/2000/en/whr00_en.pdf |title=The World Health Report |publisher=World Health Organization |page=66 |year=2000|access-date=16 March 2011}}</ref> In 2008, 32% of healthcare was funded by the government. Healthcare accounts for approximately 3.5% of Singapore's GDP.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://apps.who.int/whosis/database/core/core_select_process.cfm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090726062457/http://apps.who.int/whosis/database/core/core_select_process.cfm|url-status=dead|archive-date=26 July 2009 |title=Core Health Indicators Singapore |publisher=World Health Organization |date=May 2008|access-date=16 March 2011}}</ref> | |||
''This article incorporates public domain text from the websites of Singapore Department of Statistics, United States Department of State, & ] (2004).'' | |||
== |
== Culture == | ||
{{Main|Culture of Singapore}} | |||
{{ChineseText}} | |||
] district, Singapore's oldest Hindu temple since 1827.]] | |||
{{sisterlinks|Singapore}} | |||
{{portal|Singapore|Singapore coa.png}} | |||
Despite its small size, Singapore has a diversity of languages, religions, and cultures.<ref name="singapore21">{{cite web |url=http://www.singapore21.org.sg/speeches_050599.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010210223621/http://www.singapore21.org.sg/speeches_050599.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=10 February 2001 |title=Speech by Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong on Singapore 21 Debate in Parliament |publisher=singapore21 |date=5 May 1999|access-date=27 October 2011}}</ref> Former prime ministers of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew and Goh Chok Tong, have stated that Singapore does not fit the traditional description of a nation, calling it a society-in-transition, pointing out the fact that Singaporeans do not all speak the same language, share the same religion, or have the same customs.<ref name="singapore21" /><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/443304/1/.html |title=MM Lee says Singapore needs to do more to achieve nationhood |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |location=Singapore |date=5 May 2009|access-date=27 October 2011|archive-date=30 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170630175421/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/443304/1/.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Singaporeans who speak English as their native language would likely lean toward ] (along with either ] or ]),<ref>{{cite journal |last1=B. H. Goh |first1=Robbie |title=Christian identities in Singapore: religion, race and culture between state controls and transnational flows |journal=Journal of Cultural Geography |year=2009 |volume=26 |pages=1–23 |publisher=routledge |doi=10.1080/08873630802617135 |s2cid=144728013|doi-access=free}}</ref> while those who speak Chinese as their native language mostly lean toward ], which has linkages with ], ], ] and ]. Malay-speaking Singaporeans mostly lean toward ], which itself is closely linked to ].<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Siddique |first1=Sharon |title=Some Aspects of Malay-Muslim Ethnicity in Peninsular Malaysia |journal=Contemporary Southeast Asia |year=1981 |volume=3 |issue=1 |pages=76–87 |jstor=25797648 |doi=10.1355/CS3-1E|doi-broken-date=18 November 2024 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Prystay |first1=Chris |title=Bit of Malay Culture Is Now Vanishing Under Muslim Rules |url=https://yaleglobal.yale.edu/content/bit-malay-culture-now-vanishing-under-muslim-rules |website=Yale GlobalOnline |publisher=Yale University |access-date=17 November 2018 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807072403/https://yaleglobal.yale.edu/content/bit-malay-culture-now-vanishing-under-muslim-rules |url-status=dead }}</ref> Tamil-speaking Singaporeans mostly lean toward ], which itself is mostly linked to ]. Racial and religious harmony is regarded as a crucial part of Singapore's success, and played a part in building a Singaporean identity.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.singaporeunited.sg/cep/index.php/web/Our-News/PM-Lee-on-racial-and-religious-issues-National-Day-Rally-2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100220195750/http://www.singaporeunited.sg/cep/index.php/web/Our-News/PM-Lee-on-racial-and-religious-issues-National-Day-Rally-2009|url-status=dead|archive-date=20 February 2010 |title=PM Lee on racial and religious issues (National Day Rally 2009) |publisher=Singapore United |date=16 August 2009|access-date=27 February 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Prystay |first1=Chris |title=Bit of Malay Culture Is Now Vanishing Under Muslim Rules |url=https://yaleglobal.yale.edu/content/bit-malay-culture-now-vanishing-under-muslim-rules |website=YaleGlobal Online |publisher=Yale Universal |access-date=17 November 2018 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807072403/https://yaleglobal.yale.edu/content/bit-malay-culture-now-vanishing-under-muslim-rules |url-status=dead }}</ref> | |||
'''General Information''' | |||
* | |||
* | |||
* | |||
* | |||
* | |||
* | |||
* | |||
* | |||
* | |||
When Singapore became independent from the United Kingdom in 1963, most Singaporean citizens were transient ] who had no intention of staying permanently.<ref name=":0">{{Cite book |title=Singapore : the making of a nation-state 1300–1975. Secondary Two, |author=<nowiki>Singapore, Curriculum Planning & Development Division</nowiki> |isbn=978-981-4448-45-1 |location=Singapore |oclc=903000193 |year=2015}}</ref> There was also a sizeable minority of middle-class, locally born people—known as ]s or Baba-Nyonya-descendants of 15th- and 16th-century Chinese immigrants. With the exception of the Peranakans who pledged their loyalties to Singapore, most of the labourers' loyalties lay with their respective homelands of ], China and India. After independence, the government began a deliberate process of crafting a uniquely Singaporean identity and culture.<ref name=":0" /> Singapore has a reputation as a ].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/from_our_own_correspondent/3861209.stm |title=Singapore slings a little caution to the wind |publisher=BBC News |date=16 August 2004|access-date=27 February 2011 |first=Andrew |last=Harding}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/05/23/business/worldbusiness/23casino.html?pagewanted=all |title=The Nanny State Places a Bet |work=The New York Times |date=16 August 2004|access-date=27 February 2011 |first=Wayne |last=Arnold}}</ref> The government also places a heavy emphasis on ], where one is judged based on one's ability.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.pmo.gov.sg/content/pmosite/mediacentre/inthenews/ministermentor/2009/April/old_and_new_citizensgetequalchancesaysmmlee.html |title=Old and new citizens get equal chance, says MM Lee |publisher=Prime Minister's Office |date=5 May 2010|access-date=27 October 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110812071843/http://www.pmo.gov.sg/content/pmosite/mediacentre/inthenews/ministermentor/2009/April/old_and_new_citizensgetequalchancesaysmmlee.html|archive-date=12 August 2011}}</ref> | |||
<!-- DO NOT POST ANY SITE THAT IS COMMERCIAL OR HAS ADS, E.G. MAKING MONEY WITH GOOGLE ADS --> | |||
<!-- THIS IS NOT A MARKETING PLATFORM. TRY DMOZ.ORG OR YAHOO.COM --> | |||
The national flower of Singapore is the ] ], ], named in memory of a Singapore-born Armenian woman, who crossbred the flower in her garden at ] in 1893.<ref>{{cite web |title=National Flower |url=https://www.nhb.gov.sg/what-we-do/our-work/community-engagement/education/resources/national-symbols/national-flower |website=nhb.gov.sg |publisher=National Heritage Board}}</ref> Singapore is known as the ''Lion City'' and many national symbols such as the ] and the ] make use of a lion. Major religious festivals are ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Ministry of Manpower issues response on debate over Thaipusam public holiday |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/ministry-of-manpower-issues-response-on-debate-over-thaipusam-public-holiday|access-date=4 July 2018 |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=13 February 2015}}</ref> | |||
'''Travel''' | |||
* {{wikitravel}} | |||
* | |||
=== Arts === | |||
'''Maps''' | |||
{{further|Dance in Singapore|Singaporean literature|Music of Singapore}} | |||
] oversees the world's largest public collection of Singaporean and Southeast Asian art.]] | |||
During the 1990s the ] was created to spearhead the development of performing arts, along with visual and literary art forms.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mica.gov.sg/renaissance/FinalRen.pdf |title=Culture and the Arts in Renaissance Singapore |publisher=]|access-date=1 May 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060524013952/http://www.mica.gov.sg/renaissance/FinalRen.pdf|archive-date=24 May 2006}}</ref> The ] is the nation's flagship museum with some 8,000 works from Singaporean and other Southeast Asian artists. The ] focuses on contemporary art from a Southeast Asian perspective.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About {{!}} Singapore Art Museum |url=https://www.singaporeartmuseum.sg/en/about |access-date=25 May 2024 |website=www.singaporeartmuseum.sg |language=en}}</ref> The ] Design Museum celebrates exceptional art and design of objects for everyday life, hosting more than 1,000 items from 50 countries. The lotus-shaped ] hosts touring exhibitions that combine art with the sciences. Other major museums include the ], the ], and ].<ref>{{cite news |last1=NN |first1=Soorya Kiran |title=Painting our own canvas |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/painting-our-own-canvas|access-date=17 August 2018 |work=The Straits Times |date=29 November 2015}}</ref> ] is Singapore's largest performing arts centre. In 2016 alone, it was the site of 5,900 free art and culture events.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1827_2011-08-05.html |title=Esplanade-Theatres on the bay |date=7 July 2016 |author=Faizah bte Zakaria|access-date=16 March 2018}}</ref><ref name="CNA1">{{cite news |last1=Wintle |first1=Angela |title=Singlish, cultural diversity and hawker food essential in forging a national identity, say celebs |url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singlish-cultural-diversity-and-hawker-food-essential-in-forging-8226060 |publisher=Channel NewsAsia |date=5 February 2016|access-date=17 August 2018|archive-date=21 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171221192042/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singlish-cultural-diversity-and-hawker-food-essential-in-forging-8226060|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
Literature of Singapore, or "SingLit", consists of a collection of literary works by Singaporeans written chiefly in the country's four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. Singapore is increasingly regarded as having four sub-literatures instead of one. Many significant works have been translated and showcased in publications such as the literary journal ''Singa'', published in the 1980s and 1990s with editors including ] and ], as well as in multilingual anthologies such as ''Rhythms: A Singaporean Millennial Anthology Of Poetry'' (2000), in which the poems were all translated three times each. A number of Singaporean writers such as ] and ] have contributed work in more than one language.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/arts/poet-feature-singapores-unique-language-in-literature |title=Singapore Writers Festival: Feature Singapore's unique language in literature, says poet |newspaper=The Straits Times|access-date=27 August 2019 |date=5 November 2018 |last1=Toh |first1=Wen Li}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www3.ntu.edu.sg/home/kbolton/pdf/(2014)%20Bolton%20and%20Ng.pdf |title=The dynamics of multilingualism in contemporary Singapore |publisher=]|access-date=27 August 2019|archive-date=28 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328194001/http://www3.ntu.edu.sg/home/kbolton/pdf/(2014)%20Bolton%20and%20Ng.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
Singapore has a diverse music culture that ranges from pop and rock, to folk and classical. Western classical music plays a significant role in the cultural life in Singapore, with the ] (SSO) instituted in 1979. Other notable western orchestras in Singapore include ]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.moe.gov.sg/snyo/ |title=Singapore National Youth Orchestra |website=Ministry of Education|access-date=5 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141009101537/http://www.moe.gov.sg/snyo/|archive-date=9 October 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> and the community-based ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.timeoutsingapore.com/music/feature/adrian-tan-new-music-director-braddell-heights-symphony-orchestra |title=Music director Adrian Tan ushers in new era for Braddell Heights Symphony Orchestra |last=Ang |first=Steven |website=Time Out Singapore|access-date=5 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006150746/http://www.timeoutsingapore.com/music/feature/adrian-tan-new-music-director-braddell-heights-symphony-orchestra|archive-date=6 October 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> Many orchestras and ensembles are also found in secondary schools and junior colleges. Various communities have their own distinct ethnic musical traditions: Chinese, Malays, Indians, and Eurasians. With their traditional forms of music and various modern musical styles, the fusion of different forms account for the musical diversity in the country.<ref name="garland">{{cite book |title=The Garland Handbook of Southeast Asian Music |editor1=Terry Miller |editor2=Sean Williams |chapter=Singapore |author=Lee Tong Soon |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-0-415-96075-5 |year=2008}}</ref> The nation's lively urban musical scene has made it a centre for international performances and festivals in the region. Some of Singapore's best known pop singers include ], ], ], ] and ], who is famous for composing ] theme songs, including ''Home''.<ref>{{Cite news |title=An A-Z of the nation's iconic talents |date=17 February 2019 |work=The Sunday Times}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=NN |first1=Soorya Kiran |title=Here's why Stefanie Sun's a Singapore icon |url=http://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/heres-why-stefanie-suns-singapore-icon|access-date=17 August 2018 |work=AsiaOne |date=20 August 2017}}</ref> | |||
=== Cuisine === | |||
{{Main|Singaporean cuisine}} | |||
] hawker centre in the financial district. ] cart-stalls roll in after dusk, on a side street.]] | |||
Singapore's diversity of cuisine is touted as a reason to visit the country, due to its combination of convenience, variety, quality, and price.<ref name="Foodways">{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=p5Mw_WTLhiYC&dq=singapore*+cuisine&pg=PA161 |title=Changing Chinese foodways in Asia |last1=Wu |first1=David Y.H. |author2=Chee Beng Tan |pages=161 ff |publisher=Chinese University Press |location=Hong Kong |isbn=978-962-201-914-0 |year=2001|access-date=27 February 2011}}</ref> Local food items generally relate to a particular ethnicity – Chinese, Malay and Indian; but the diversity of cuisine has increased further by the hybridisation of different styles (e.g., the ], a mix of Chinese and Malay cuisine). In hawker centres, cultural diffusion is exemplified by traditionally Malay hawker stalls also selling Tamil food. ], based on the Hainanese dish ], is considered Singapore's national dish.<ref name="farleyBBC6nov2015">{{cite web |last=Farley |first=David |title=The Dish Worth the 15-Hour Flight |url=http://www.bbc.com/travel/story/20151105-the-singapore-dish-worth-a-15-hour-flight |publisher=BBC News}}</ref><ref name="lingCNN14apr2010">{{cite web |last=Ling |first=Catherine |title=40 Singapore foods we can't live without |url=http://travel.cnn.com/singapore/none/40-singapore-foods-we-cant-live-without-810208/ |publisher=CNN|access-date=13 January 2019|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121119235745/http://travel.cnn.com/singapore/none/40-singapore-foods-we-cant-live-without-810208/|archive-date=19 November 2012}}</ref> | |||
The city-state has a burgeoning food scene ranging from hawker centres (open-air), food courts (air-conditioned), coffee shops (open-air with up to a dozen hawker stalls), cafes, fast food, simple kitchens, casual, celebrity and high-end restaurants.<ref name=streetfood /> ]s and food delivery are also on the rise, with 70% of residents ordering from delivery apps at least once a month.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Woo |first1=Jacqueline |title=Food fight! The battle for the food delivery market |url=https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/brunch/food-fight-the-battle-for-the-food-delivery-market |work=The Business Times |date=8 September 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=70% of Singapore consumers order from food delivery apps at least once a month – and most are spending more money in recent years |url=https://www.businessinsider.sg/70-of-singapore-consumers-order-from-food-delivery-apps-at-least-once-a-month-and-most-are-spending-more-money-in-recent-years/ |work=Business Insider Singapore |date=21 March 2019|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190923055606/https://www.businessinsider.sg/70-of-singapore-consumers-order-from-food-delivery-apps-at-least-once-a-month-and-most-are-spending-more-money-in-recent-years/|archive-date=23 September 2019}}</ref> Many international ] restaurants are located within the ]s.<ref>{{cite news |title=The top celebrity chef restaurants to visit in Singapore |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/food/celebrity-chefs-opening-restaurants-in-singapore-three-more-to-look-out-for |newspaper=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |date=23 June 2015}}</ref> Religious dietary strictures exist (Muslims do not eat pork and Hindus do not eat beef), and there is also a significant group of vegetarians. The ] which celebrates Singapore's cuisine is held annually in July.<ref name="SFF">{{cite web |url=https://www.visitsingapore.com/festivals-events-singapore/annual-highlights/singapore-food-festival/ |title=Singapore Food Festival |publisher=Singapore Tourism Board|access-date=4 February 2020}}</ref> | |||
Prior to the 1980s, ] was sold mainly by immigrants from China, India, and Malaysia to other immigrants seeking a familiar taste. In Singapore, street food has long been associated with ]s with communal seating areas. Typically, these centres have a few dozen to hundreds of food stalls, with each specialising in one or more related dishes.<ref name=fodor>{{cite news |last=Fieldmar |first=James |title=Singapore's Street Food 101 |url=http://www.fodors.com/news/street-food-in-singapore-6276.html|access-date=21 October 2013 |newspaper=Fodor's |date=19 December 2012|archive-date=22 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131022001718/http://www.fodors.com/news/street-food-in-singapore-6276.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=streetfood>{{cite news |last=Michaels |first=Rowena |title=Singapore's best street food ... just don't order frog porridge |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/expat/expatlife/10204790/Singapores-best-street-food-...-just-dont-order-frog-porridge.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/expat/expatlife/10204790/Singapores-best-street-food-...-just-dont-order-frog-porridge.html |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|access-date=21 October 2013 |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |date=20 July 2013}}{{cbignore}}</ref> While street food can be found in many countries, the variety and reach of centralised hawker centres that serve heritage street food in Singapore is unique.<ref name="Hawker2007">{{cite book |last1=Kong |first1=Lily |title=Singapore Hawker Centres : People, Places, Food |date=2007 |publisher=SNP |location=Singapore |isbn=978-981-248-149-8}}</ref> In 2018, there were 114 hawker centres spread across the city centre and heartland housing estates. They are maintained by the ], which also grades each food stall for hygiene. The largest hawker centre is located on the second floor of Chinatown Complex, and contains over 200 stalls.<ref name="Hawker2007" /> The complex is also home to the cheapest Michelin-starred meal in the world – a plate of ] chicken rice or noodles for S$2 (US$1.50). Two street food stalls in the city are the first in the world to be awarded a Michelin star, obtaining a single star each.<ref>{{cite news |last=Han |first=Kirsten |title=Michelin star for Singapore noodle stall where lunch is half the price of a Big Mac |url=https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2016/aug/04/michelin-star-for-singapore-noodle-stall-where-lunch-is-half-the-price-of-a-big-mac |work=The Guardian |date=4 August 2016 |location=London}}</ref> | |||
=== Sport and recreation === | |||
{{Main|Sport in Singapore}} | |||
] is a gold medalist and Olympic record holder at the ].<ref name="Schooling-Rio" />]] | |||
The development of private sports and recreation clubs began in the 19th century colonial Singapore, with clubs founded during this time including the Cricket Club, the ], the Singapore Swimming Club, and the Hollandse Club.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.sportsingapore.gov.sg/sports-education/history-of-singapore-sports |title=History of Singapore Sports |website=Sport Singapore|access-date=6 July 2018|archive-date=6 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180706161703/https://www.sportsingapore.gov.sg/sports-education/history-of-singapore-sports|url-status=dead}}</ref> Weightlifter ] was Singapore's first Olympic medalist, winning a silver at the ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_635_2005-01-10.html |title=Tan Howe Liang |publisher=]|access-date=28 August 2019}}</ref> Singapore hosted the inaugural ], in which 3,600 athletes from 204 nations competed in 26 sports.<ref name="Singapore to host first edition of the Youth Olympic Games in 2010">{{cite press release |url=http://www.olympic.org/uk/news/media_centre/press_release_uk.asp?release=2492 |publisher=]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090311003132/http://www.olympic.org/uk/news/media_centre/press_release_uk.asp?release=2492|archive-date=11 March 2009 |date=21 February 2008 |title=Singapore to host first edition of the Youth Olympic Games in 2010|access-date=16 March 2011}}</ref> | |||
Indoor and water sports are some of the most popular sports in Singapore. At the ], ] won Singapore's first Olympic gold medal, claiming the ] in a new Olympic record time of 50.39 seconds.<ref name="Schooling-Rio">{{cite news |title=Michael Phelps taught a lesson for once – by Joseph Schooling {{!}} Andy Bull|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2016/aug/13/michael-phelps-taught-a-lesson-for-once-by-singapores-joseph-schooling|access-date=17 August 2018|work=The Guardian|date=13 August 2016|ref=London}}</ref> Singapore sailors have had success on the international stage, with their ] team being considered among the best in the world.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/sailing-spore-retain-world-team-title |title=Sailing: S'pore retain world team title|access-date=28 August 2019 |date=24 July 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://tnp.straitstimes.com/sports/team-singapore/singapore-sailing-needs-trailblazer |title=Singapore sailing needs a trailblazer|access-date=28 August 2019 |date=8 May 2017}}</ref> Despite its size, the country has dominated swim meets in the ]. Its men's water polo team won the SEA Games gold medal for the 27th time in 2017, continuing Singapore sport's longest winning streak.<ref>{{cite news |last=Chia |first=Nicole |title=SEA Games: Singapore capture men's 27th water polo gold to keep country's longest sports winning streak alive |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/sea-games-singapore-win-mens-27th-water-polo-gold-to-keep-countrys-longest-sporting-streak|access-date=17 August 2018 |work=The Straits Times |date=20 August 2017}}</ref> At the ], ] won Singapore's first Olympic medal in ], achieving bronze at the ] on ]. At 17, he was also Singapore's youngest Olympic medalist.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mohan |first1=Matthew |title=Kitefoiler Max Maeder clinches Olympic bronze, makes history as Singapore's youngest Games medallist |url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/max-maeder-olympic-medal-bronze-kitefoiling-paris-games-4537696 |website=CNA |access-date=14 August 2024 |language=en |date=9 August 2024}}</ref> | |||
Singapore's women's table tennis team were silver medalists at the ].<ref>{{cite news |author=ir |url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/368387/1/.html |title=Olympics: First medal in 48 years for Singapore |publisher=]|access-date=15 August 2008|archive-date=22 November 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081122051939/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/368387/1/.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/table-tennis-end-of-era-for-singapore-women-paddlers |title=Table tennis: End of era for Singapore women paddlers |newspaper=The Straits Times|access-date=28 August 2019 |date=5 March 2016 |last1=Chua |first1=Siang Yee}}</ref> They became world champions in 2010 when they beat China at the ] in Russia, breaking China's 19-year winning streak.<ref>{{citation |title=World champs!: S'pore beat favourites China in World Team Table Tennis C'ships |url=http://www.todayonline.com/Hotnews/EDC100531-0000074/World-champs!|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100601183945/http://www.todayonline.com/Hotnews/EDC100531-0000074/World-champs!|archive-date=1 June 2010 |newspaper=Today |date=31 May 2010 |page=1|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2021, Singapore's ] achieved a "World Champion" status when he won a badminton gold at the ] ], which is one of the most prestigious badminton tournaments alongside the ].<ref>{{cite news |title=Singapore's Loh Kean Yew is badminton world champion |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/badminton-singapores-loh-kean-yew-is-world-champion |newspaper=The Straits Times |access-date=3 May 2022}}</ref> | |||
Singapore's ] league, the ], was launched in 1996 as the S.League and comprises eight clubs, including one foreign team.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sleague.com/competitions/s-league/overview |title=S.League.com – Overview |publisher=S.League |year=2016|access-date=5 January 2016|archive-date=22 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130822234311/http://www.sleague.com/competitions/s-league/overview|url-status=usurped}}</ref><ref> ''The Straits Times'', 21 March 2018</ref> The ] is one of the inaugural teams in the ], which was founded in October 2009.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.fiba.com/pages/eng/fc/news/lateNews/arti.asp?newsid=29263|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090816082403/http://www.fiba.com/pages/eng/fc/news/lateNews/arti.asp?newsid=29263|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 August 2009 |title=ASEAN Basketball League takes off |date=20 January 2009 |work=FIBA Asia}}</ref> ] is run by the ] and hosts several meetings per week, including international races—notably the ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/INFOPEDIA/articles/SIP_136_2004-12-30.html |title=Singapore Turf Club |publisher=]|access-date=28 August 2019}}</ref> | |||
Singapore began hosting a round of the ], the ] at the ] in 2008. It was the inaugural F1 night race,<ref name="News – Singapore confirms 2008 night race">{{cite press release |title=Singapore confirms 2008 night race |publisher=] |url=http://www.formula1.com/news/6063.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070613015932/http://www.formula1.com/news/6063.html |date=11 May 2007|archive-date=13 June 2007|access-date=18 May 2007}}</ref> and the first F1 street race in Asia.<ref name="1stStreet">{{cite press release |title=SingTel to sponsor first Singapore Grand Prix |publisher=] |url=http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2007/11/7101.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071118105330/http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2007/11/7101.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 November 2007|access-date=10 December 2007 |date=16 November 2007}}</ref> It is considered a signature event on the F1 calendar.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Oi |first1=Mariko |title=The Big Read: To keep roaring for S'pore, F1 needs to raise its game |url=https://www.todayonline.com/sports/big-read-keep-roaring-spore-f1-needs-raise-its-game |work=TODAYonline |date=23 April 2013 |location=Singapore}}</ref> ] was founded in Singapore, a major ] (MMA) promotion in Asia.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2013-03-11-sns-rt-mixed-martial-artsonefc-pixl3n0c308o-20130310-story.html |title=Mixed martial arts-ONE FC returning to Manila in May |website=chicagotribune.com}}</ref> | |||
=== Media === | |||
{{Main|Media of Singapore}} | |||
{{See also|Telecommunications in Singapore}} | |||
] oversees the development of ], media and ].]] | |||
Companies linked to the government control much of the domestic media in Singapore.<ref name="freedomhouse_a">{{cite web |url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/template.cfm?page=22&country=7915&year=2010 |title=Country Report 2010 Edition |publisher=Freedom House |year=2010|access-date=7 May 2011|archive-date=15 December 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101215114121/http://freedomhouse.org/template.cfm?page=22&year=2010&country=7915|url-status=dead}}</ref> ] operates most ] and ] in Singapore. There are a total of six free-to-air TV channels offered by MediaCorp.<ref>{{Cite web |title=TV Guide |url=https://www.mewatch.sg/channel-guide|access-date=4 February 2022 |website=meWATCH}}</ref> ] and ] also offer ] with channels from all around the world.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mda.gov.sg/POLICIES/POLICIESANDCONTENTGUIDELINES/TV/Pages/CableTV.aspx|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100714155808/http://www.mda.gov.sg/Policies/PoliciesandContentGuidelines/TV/Pages/CableTV.aspx|url-status=dead|archive-date=14 July 2010 |title=Cable Television |year=2011 |publisher=XIN MSN|access-date=17 October 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mda.gov.sg/POLICIES/POLICIESANDCONTENTGUIDELINES/TV/Pages/IPTV.aspx|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100714144133/http://www.mda.gov.sg/Policies/PoliciesandContentGuidelines/TV/Pages/IPTV.aspx|url-status=dead|archive-date=14 July 2010 |title=Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) |year=2011 |publisher=XIN MSN|access-date=17 October 2011}}</ref> ], a body with close links to the government, controls most of the newspaper industry in Singapore.<ref name="BBC Media">{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/country_profiles/1143240.stm |title=Singapore country profile |publisher=BBC News |date=16 November 2010|access-date=27 February 2011}}</ref> | |||
Singapore's media industry has sometimes been criticised for being overly regulated and lacking in freedom by human rights groups such as ].<ref name="freedomhouse_a" /> Self-censorship among journalists is said to be common.<ref name="BBC Media" /> In 2023, Singapore was ranked 129 on the Press Freedom Index published by ], up from 139 the previous year.<ref>{{cite web |title=2023 World Press Freedom Index for Singapore |url=https://rsf.org/en/country/singapore |website=RSF |date=16 June 2023 |access-date=4 October 2023}}</ref> The ] regulates Singaporean media, claiming to balance the demand for choice and protection against offensive and harmful material.<ref name="Mica">{{cite web |url=http://www.mica.gov.sg/mica_business/b_media.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060910233826/http://www.mica.gov.sg/mica_business/b_media.html|archive-date=10 September 2006 |title=Media: Overview |date=16 March 2005 |publisher=Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts|access-date=27 February 2011}}</ref> Private ownership of TV satellite dishes is banned.<ref name="BBC Media" /> | |||
] is provided by state-owned ], partially state-owned ] and ] as well as some other business ]s (ISPs) that offer residential service plans of speeds up to 2 ] as of spring 2015.<ref>{{cite web |title=ViewQwest 2Gbps FAQ |url=http://www.viewqwest.com/vqlp/2gbps-faq/|access-date=2 November 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151021051852/http://www.viewqwest.com/vqlp/2gbps-faq/|archive-date=21 October 2015}}</ref> ] (332 participants) and the ] (70 participants) are ]s where ]s and ]s exchange Internet traffic between their networks (]) in various locations in Singapore.<ref>{{cite web |title=Equinix further expands SG2 IBX data center in Singapore |url=https://www.networksasia.net/article/equinix-further-expands-sg2-ibx-data-center-singapore.1499915580 |website=Networks Asia|access-date=4 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180704123248/https://www.networksasia.net/article/equinix-further-expands-sg2-ibx-data-center-singapore.1499915580|archive-date=4 July 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Singapore Internet Exchange |url=https://www.imda.gov.sg/industry-development/infrastructure/next-gen-national-infocomm-infrastructure/singapore-internet-exchange |publisher=]|access-date=4 July 2018|archive-date=27 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180227035254/https://www.imda.gov.sg/industry-development/infrastructure/next-gen-national-infocomm-infrastructure/singapore-internet-exchange|url-status=dead}}</ref> In the mid-1980s to 1990s, Singaporeans could also use the locally based videotext service ] to communicate with one another.<ref name="sandfort" /> The phrase ''Intelligent Island'' arose in the 1990s in reference to the island nation's early adaptive relationship with the internet.<ref name="sandfort">{{cite magazine |magazine=Wired |url=https://www.wired.com/1993/04/sandfort/ |title=The Intelligent Island |first=Sandy |last=Sandfort |date=April 1993}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |magazine=Wired |url=https://www.wired.com/1993/04/gibson-2/ |title=Disneyland with the Death Penalty |first=William |last=Gibson |date=April 1993}}</ref> | |||
In 2016, there were an estimated 4.7 million internet users in Singapore, representing 82.5% of the population.<ref>{{cite web |title=Internet Users by Country (July 2016 estimate) |url=http://www.internetlivestats.com/internet-users-by-country/ |website=Internet Live States|access-date=23 November 2016 |date=July 2016 |quote=Elaboration of data by International Telecommunication Union (ITU), United Nations Population Division, Internet & Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), World Bank.}}</ref> The Singapore government does not engage in widespread censoring of the internet,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://opennet.net/research/profiles/singapore |title=Singapore |publisher=OpenNet Initiative|access-date=7 May 2011}}</ref> but it maintains a list of one hundred websites—mostly pornographic—that it blocks from home internet access as a "symbolic statement of the Singaporean community's stand on harmful and undesirable content on the Internet".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_622871.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110119042223/http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_622871.html|archive-date=19 January 2011 |title=Impossible for S'pore to block all undesirable sites |last=Wong |first=Tessa |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |publisher=Singapore Press Holdings |date=11 January 2011|access-date=17 August 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.asiaone.com/Digital/News/Story/A1Story20080523-66562.html |title=MDA bans two video-sharing porn sites |date=23 May 2008 |author=Chua Hian Hou |work=The Straits Times |location=Singapore |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080524215638/http://www.asiaone.com/Digital/News/Story/A1Story20080523-66562.html |archive-date=24 May 2008}}</ref> Singapore has the world's highest ] penetration rates, in surveys by ]<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/smartphone-penetration-singapore-highest-globally-survey |title=Smartphone penetration in Singapore the highest globally: Survey |date=11 February 2015 |work=Today |location=Singapore}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www2.deloitte.com/au/en/pages/media-releases/articles/our-mobile-world-always-on-FOMO-or-necessity-251114.html |title=Deloitte Mobile Consumer 2014 |date=25 November 2014 |publisher=Deloitte Australia |access-date=13 January 2016 |archive-date=5 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180805143008/https://www2.deloitte.com/au/en/pages/media-releases/articles/our-mobile-world-always-on-FOMO-or-necessity-251114.html |url-status=dead}}</ref> and the Google Consumer Barometer—at 89% and 85% of the population respectively in 2014.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://digital.asiaone.com/digital/news/6-top-things-singaporeans-do-when-using-their-smartphones |title=6 top things that Singaporeans do when using their smartphones |date=6 November 2014 |work=Asiaone |access-date=13 January 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160126050015/http://digital.asiaone.com/digital/news/6-top-things-singaporeans-do-when-using-their-smartphones |archive-date=26 January 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The overall mobile phone penetration rate is at 148 mobile phone subscribers per 100 people.<ref name="singstat2014mobile">{{cite web |url=http://www.singstat.gov.sg/statistics/latest-data#19 |title=Statistics Singapore – Latest Data – Social Indicators |publisher=Singapore Department of Statistics |year=2014 |access-date=26 April 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20151129094649/http://www.singstat.gov.sg/statistics/latest-data#19 |archive-date=29 November 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
== See also == | |||
{{portal|Singapore|Cities|Islands|Asia}} | |||
* ] | |||
* ] | |||
* ] | |||
{{clear right}} | |||
== Notes == | |||
{{reflist|group=Note}} | |||
{{notelist}} | |||
== References == | |||
=== Citations === | |||
{{Reflist}} | |||
'''Attribution''' | |||
{{refbegin}} | |||
* ''This article incorporates public domain text from the websites of the <span class="plainlinks"></span>, the ], the ] and '']''.'' | |||
{{refend}} | |||
== Works cited == | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Bose |first=Romen |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8Q2JAAAAQBAJ |title=The End of the War: Singapore's Liberation and the Aftermath of the Second World War |date=2005 |publisher=] |isbn=978-981-261-066-9 |location=Singapore}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Legg |first=Frank |author-link=Frank Legg |title=The Gordon Bennett Story: From Gallipoli to Singapore |publisher=] |year=1965 |location=Sydney, New South Wales |oclc=3193299}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Miksic |first=John N. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8NJ3BgAAQBAJ |title=Singapore & the Silk Road of the Sea, 1300-1800 |date=2013 |publisher=] |isbn=978-9971-69-558-3 |location=Singapore}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Smith |first=Colin |url=https://archive.org/details/singaporeburning0000coli |title=Singapore Burning: Heroism and Surrender in World War II |publisher=] |year=2006 |isbn=978-0-14-101036-6 |series=Penguin military history |location=London |url-access=registration}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Toland |first=John |author-link=John Toland (historian) |url=https://archive.org/details/risingsundecli00tola |title=The Rising Sun: The Decline and Fall of the Japanese Empire, 1936-1945 |publisher=] |year=1970 |location=New York, NY |lccn=77-117669 |ol=25646706M}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Wigmore |first=Lionel |url=https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/RCDIG1070203 |title=The Japanese Thrust |publisher=] |year=1957 |location=Canberra}} | |||
== Further reading == | |||
{{Library resources box|onlinebooks=yes|by=yes}} | |||
{{Refbegin|30em}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Abshire |first=Jean E. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=SITDEAAAQBAJ |title=The History of Singapore |date=2011 |publisher=] |isbn=978-0-313-37742-6 |series=The Greenwood histories of the modern nations |location=Santa Barbara, Calif |oclc=669750075}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Barr |first=Michael D. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=SxKEDwAAQBAJ |title=Singapore: A Modern History |date=2019 |publisher=] |isbn=978-1-350-13387-7 |location=London ; New York |oclc=on1097575328}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Corfield |first=Justin J. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vhBMmG9yXgYC |title=Historical Dictionary of Singapore |date=2011 |publisher=] |isbn=978-0-8108-7184-7 |edition=New |series=Historical dictionaries of Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East |location=Lanham (Md.)}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Ghesquiere |first=Henri |title=Singapore's Success: Engineering Economic Growth |date=2007 |publisher=] |isbn=978-981-4195-28-7 |location=Singapore}} | |||
* {{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=sWxtDQAAQBAJ |title=50 Years Of Urban Planning In Singapore |date=2015 |publisher=] |isbn=978-981-4656-45-0 |editor-last=Heng |editor-first=Chye Kiang |location=Singapore}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last1=Hill |first1=Michael |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i-7AOHscNewC |title=The Politics of Nation Building and Citizenship in Singapore |last2=Lian |first2=Kwen Fee |publisher=] |year=1995 |isbn=978-0-415-12025-8 |edition=Repr |series=Politics in Asia series |location=London |ref=none}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Huff |first=W. G. |url=https://archive.org/details/economicgrowthof0000huff |title=The Economic Growth of Singapore: Trade and Development in the Twentieth Century |date=1994 |publisher=] |isbn=978-0-521-37037-0 |location=Cambridge |url-access=registration}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=King |first=Rodney |title=The Singapore Miracle, Myth and Reality |publisher=Insight Press |year=2008 |isbn=978-0-9775567-0-0 |edition=2. |location=Inglewood, WA |ref=none}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Leifer |first=Michael |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wiC6pkgWToIC |title=Singapore's Foreign Policy: Coping with Vulnerability |date=2000 |publisher=] |isbn=978-0-415-23353-8 |series=Politics in Asia |location=London}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last1=Mauzy |first1=Diane K. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=6zrYd4-ExqAC |title=Singapore Politics Under the People's Action Party |last2=Milne |first2=R. S. |publisher=] |year=2002 |isbn=978-0-415-24653-8 |series=Politics in Asia |location=New York |ref=none}} | |||
* {{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AXxpDQAAQBAJ |title=Singapore and Asia in a Globalized World: Contemporary Economic Issues and Policies |date=2009 |publisher=] |isbn=978-981-281-557-6 |editor-last=Chia |editor-first=Wai Mun |location=Singapore ; Hackensack, N.J |editor-last2=Sng |editor-first2=Hui Ying}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Perry |first=John Curtis |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=dnuuDQAAQBAJ |title=Singapore: Unlikely Power |date=2017 |publisher=] |isbn=978-0-19-046950-4 |location=New York, NY}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Singh |first=Bilveer |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=gFBBEAAAQBAJ |title=Understanding Singapore Politics |date=2022 |publisher=] |isbn=978-981-12-4340-0 |edition=Second |location=Singapore}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Tan |first=Kenneth Paul |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YNnbx98ixNkC |title=Renaissance Singapore? Economy, Culture, and Politics |publisher=] |year=2007 |isbn=978-9971-69-377-0 |editor-last=Tan |editor-first=Kenneth Paul |location=Singapore |ref=none}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Worthington |first=Ross |title=Governance in Singapore |publisher=] |year=2003 |isbn=978-0-7007-1474-2 |location=London |ref=none}} | |||
* {{Cite book |last=Lee |first=Kuan Yew |url=https://archive.org/details/lee-kuan-yew-from-third-world-to-first |title=From Third World to First: The Singapore Story, 1965-2000 |date=2000 |publisher=] |isbn=978-0-06-019776-6 |location=New York}} | |||
{{Refend}} | |||
== External links == | |||
{{Sister project links|Singapore|voy=Singapore|d=Q334}} | |||
* from Singapore's National Library Board; numerous well-researched and well-documented essays on key events and important figures, as well as topics regarding culture, architecture, nature, etc. | |||
* {{cite report |title=Census of Population 2000 |date=April 2002 |publisher=Singapore Department of Statistics |isbn=978-981-04-6158-4 |url=http://www.singstat.gov.sg/pubn/popn/cop2000admin.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071127000711/http://www.singstat.gov.sg/pubn/popn/cop2000admin.pdf|archive-date=27 November 2007}} | |||
* {{cite web |title=Key Facts & Figures |website=Ministry of Transport, Singapore |url=http://www.mot.gov.sg/|access-date=11 January 2003}} | |||
* {{cite web |title=Nation's History |website=Singapore Infomap |url=http://app.www.sg/who/4/Our-History.aspx|access-date=11 January 2004|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090421003417/http://app.www.sg/who/4/Our-History.aspx|archive-date=21 April 2009}} | |||
* | |||
* from ''UCB Libraries GovPubs'' | |||
* from the ] | |||
* {{Wikiatlas|Singapore}} | |||
* {{OSM relation|536780}} | |||
* | * | ||
* | |||
{{Singapore topics}} | |||
{{Navboxes | |||
{{Template group | |||
|title = |
|title = Articles related to Singapore | ||
|list |
|list = | ||
{{Navboxes | |||
|title=]{{nbsp}}Geographic locale | |||
|list = | |||
'''] {{Coord|1|22|N|103|48|E|display=inline}}''' | |||
{{Countries of Asia}} | {{Countries of Asia}} | ||
{{Countries and territories of Southeast Asia}} | {{Countries and territories of Southeast Asia|collapsed}} | ||
{{Countries |
{{Countries of the Malay Archipelago}} | ||
{{Territories of Greater China}} | |||
{{Asian capitals}} | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Navboxes | |||
{{Template group | |||
|title = International membership | |title = International membership | ||
|list |
|list = | ||
{{Foreign relations of Singapore}} | |||
{{Singapore ties}} | |||
{{Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)}} | {{Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)}} | ||
{{East Asia Summit (EAS)}} | {{East Asia Summit (EAS)}} | ||
Line 408: | Line 560: | ||
{{Non-Aligned Movement}} | {{Non-Aligned Movement}} | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{English official language clickable map}} | |||
{{Template group | |||
{{Youth Olympic Games Host Cities}} | |||
|title = Languages | |||
|list = | |||
{{Sino-Tibetan-speaking}} | |||
{{Austronesian-speaking}} | |||
{{Indo-Iranian-speaking}} | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{List of Asian capitals by region}} | |||
{{coor title dm|01|22|N|103|48|E|type:city}} | |||
{{Authority control}} | |||
] | |||
] | |||
<!--Categories--> | |||
] | ] | ||
] | |||
] | ] | ||
] | |||
] | |||
] | ] | ||
] | |||
] | |||
] | ] | ||
] | ] | ||
] | ] | ||
] | ] | ||
] | ] | ||
] | ] | ||
] | |||
] | |||
<!--Other languages--> | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] |
Latest revision as of 05:03, 24 December 2024
City-state in maritime Southeast Asia This article is about the country. For other uses, see Singapore (disambiguation).
Republic of Singapore
| |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Flag Coat of arms | |||||||
Motto: Majulah Singapura (Malay) "Onward Singapore" | |||||||
Anthem: Majulah Singapura (Malay) "Onward Singapore" | |||||||
Capital | Singapore (city-state) 1°17′N 103°50′E / 1.283°N 103.833°E / 1.283; 103.833 | ||||||
Largest planning area by population | Tampines | ||||||
Official languages | |||||||
National language | Malay | ||||||
Ethnic groups (2023) | |||||||
Religion (2020) |
| ||||||
Demonym(s) | Singaporean | ||||||
Government | Unitary parliamentary republic | ||||||
• President | Tharman Shanmugaratnam | ||||||
• Prime Minister | Lawrence Wong | ||||||
Legislature | Parliament | ||||||
Independence from the United Kingdom and Malaysia | |||||||
• Self-governance | 3 June 1959 | ||||||
• Malaysia Agreement | 16 September 1963 | ||||||
• Proclamation of Singapore | 9 August 1965 | ||||||
Area | |||||||
• Total | 735.6 km (284.0 sq mi) (176th) | ||||||
Population | |||||||
• 2024 estimate | 6,040,000 (113th) | ||||||
• Density | 7,804/km (20,212.3/sq mi) (3rd) | ||||||
GDP (PPP) | 2024 estimate | ||||||
• Total | $879,980 billion (35th) | ||||||
• Per capita | $148,186 (2nd) | ||||||
GDP (nominal) | 2024 estimate | ||||||
• Total | $530,708 billion (28th) | ||||||
• Per capita | $89,370 (5th) | ||||||
Gini (2023) | 43.3 medium inequality | ||||||
HDI (2022) | 0.949 very high (9th) | ||||||
Currency | Singapore dollar (S$) (SGD) | ||||||
Time zone | UTC+8 (Singapore Standard Time) | ||||||
Calling code | +65 | ||||||
ISO 3166 code | SG | ||||||
Internet TLD | .sg |
Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is an island country and city-state in Southeast Asia. The country's territory comprises one main island, 63 satellite islands and islets, and one outlying islet. It is about one degree of latitude (137 kilometres or 85 miles) north of the equator, off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, bordering the Strait of Malacca to the west, the Singapore Strait to the south along with the Riau Islands in Indonesia, the South China Sea to the east, and the Straits of Johor along with the State of Johor in Malaysia to the north.
Singapore's history dates back at least eight hundred years, having been a maritime emporium known as Temasek and subsequently a major constituent part of several successive thalassocratic empires. Its contemporary era began in 1819, when Stamford Raffles established Singapore as an entrepôt trading post of the British Empire. In 1867, Singapore came under the direct control of Britain as part of the Straits Settlements. During World War II, Singapore was occupied by Japan in 1942 and returned to British control as a separate Crown colony following Japan's surrender in 1945. Singapore gained self-governance in 1959 and, in 1963, became part of the new federation of Malaysia, alongside Malaya, North Borneo, and Sarawak. Ideological differences led to Singapore's expulsion from the federation two years later; Singapore became an independent sovereign country in 1965. After early years of turbulence and despite lacking natural resources and a hinterland, the nation rapidly developed to become one of the Four Asian Tigers.
As a highly developed country, it has one of the highest PPP-adjusted GDP per capita in the world. It is also identified as a tax haven. Singapore is the only country in Asia with a AAA sovereign credit rating from all major rating agencies. It is a major aviation, financial, and maritime shipping hub and has consistently been ranked as one of the most expensive cities to live in for expatriates and foreign workers. Singapore ranks highly in key social indicators: education, healthcare, quality of life, personal safety, infrastructure, and housing, with a home-ownership rate of 88 percent. Singaporeans enjoy one of the longest life expectancies, fastest Internet connection speeds, lowest infant mortality rates, and lowest levels of corruption in the world. It has the third highest population density of any country in the world, although there are numerous green and recreational spaces as a result of urban planning. With a multicultural population and in recognition of the cultural identities of the major ethnic groups within the nation, Singapore has four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. English is the common language, with exclusive use in numerous public services. Multi-racialism is enshrined in the constitution and continues to shape national policies in education, housing, and politics.
Singapore is a parliamentary republic in the Westminster tradition of unicameral parliamentary government, and its legal system is based on common law. While the country is de jure a multi-party democracy with free elections, the government under the People's Action Party (PAP) wields widespread control and political dominance. The PAP has governed the country continuously since full internal self-government was achieved in 1959, and holds a supermajority in Parliament. One of the five founding members of ASEAN, Singapore is also the headquarters of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Secretariat, the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council Secretariat, and is the host city of many international conferences and events. Singapore is also a member of the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, the East Asia Summit, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Commonwealth of Nations.
Name and etymology
Main article: Names of SingaporeThe English name of "Singapore" is an anglicisation of the native Malay name for the country, Singapura (pronounced [siŋapura]), which was in turn derived from the Sanskrit word for 'lion city' (Sanskrit: सिंहपुर; romanised: Siṃhapura; Brahmi: 𑀲𑀺𑀁𑀳𑀧𑀼𑀭; literally "lion city"; siṃha means 'lion', pura means 'city' or 'fortress'). Pulau Ujong was one of the earliest references to Singapore Island, which corresponds to a Chinese account from the third century referred to a place as Pú Luó Zhōng (Chinese: 蒲 羅 中), a transcription of the Malay name for 'island at the end of a peninsula'. Early references to the name Temasek (or Tumasik) are found in the Nagarakretagama, a Javanese eulogy written in 1365, and a Vietnamese source from the same time period. The name possibly means Sea Town, being derived from the Malay tasek, meaning 'sea' or 'lake'. The Chinese traveller Wang Dayuan visited a place around 1330 named Danmaxi (Chinese: 淡馬錫; pinyin: Dànmǎxí; Wade–Giles: Tan Ma Hsi) or Tam ma siak, depending on pronunciation; this may be a transcription of Temasek, alternatively, it may be a combination of the Malay Tanah meaning 'land' and Chinese xi meaning 'tin', which was traded on the island.
Variations of the name Siṃhapura were used for a number of cities throughout the region prior to the establishment of the Kingdom of Singapura. In Hindu–Buddhist culture, lions were associated with power and protection, which may explain the attraction of such a name. The name Singapura supplanted Temasek sometime before the 15th century, after the establishment of the Kingdom of Singapura on the island by a fleeing Sumatran Raja (prince) from Palembang. However, the precise time and reason for the name change is unknown. The semi-historical Malay Annals state that Temasek was christened Singapura by Sang Nila Utama, a 13th-century Sumatran Raja from Palembang. The Annals state that Sang Nila Utama encountered a strange beast on the island that he took to be a lion. Seeing this as an omen, he established the town of Singapura where he encountered the beast. The second hypothesis, drawn from Portuguese sources, postulates that this mythical story is based on the real life Parameswara of Palembang. Parameswara declared independence from Majapahit and mounted a Lion Throne. After then being driven into exile by the Javanese, he usurped control over Temasek. He may have rechristened the area as Singapura, recalling the throne he had been driven from.
Under Japanese occupation, Singapore was renamed Syonan-to (Japanese: 昭 南, Hepburn: Shōnan), meaning 'light of the south'. Singapore is sometimes referred to by the nickname the "Garden City", in reference to its parks and tree-lined streets. Another informal name, the "Little Red Dot", was adopted after an article in the Asian Wall Street Journal of 4 August 1998 said that Indonesian President B. J. Habibie referred to Singapore as a red dot on a map.
History
Main article: History of SingaporeAncient Singapore
Further information: Early history of SingaporeIn 1299, according to the Malay Annals, the Kingdom of Singapura was founded on the island by Sang Nila Utama. Although the historicity of the accounts as given in the Malay Annals is the subject of academic debates, it is nevertheless known from various documents that Singapore in the 14th century, then known as Temasek, was a trading port under the influence of both the Majapahit Empire and the Siamese kingdoms, and was a part of the Indosphere. These Indianised kingdoms were characterised by surprising resilience, political integrity and administrative stability. Historical sources also indicate that around the end of the 14th century, its ruler Parameswara was attacked by either the Majapahit or the Siamese, forcing him to move to Malacca where he founded the Sultanate of Malacca. Archaeological evidence suggests that the main settlement on Fort Canning Hill was abandoned around this time, although a small trading settlement continued in Singapore for some time afterwards. In 1613, Portuguese raiders burned down the settlement, and the island faded into obscurity for the next two centuries. By then, Singapore was nominally part of the Johor Sultanate. The wider maritime region and much trade was under Dutch control for the following period after the 1641 Dutch conquest of Malacca.
British colonisation
Main articles: Founding of modern Singapore and Singapore in the Straits SettlementsThe British governor Stamford Raffles arrived in Singapore on 28 January 1819 and soon recognised the island as a natural choice for the new port. The island was then nominally ruled by Tengku Abdul Rahman, the Sultan of Johor, who was controlled by the Dutch and the Bugis. However, the Sultanate was weakened by factional division: Abdul Rahman, the Temenggong of Johor to Tengku Abdul Rahman, as well as his officials, were loyal to the Sultan's elder brother Tengku Long, who was living in exile in Penyengat Island, Riau Islands. With the Temenggong's help, Raffles managed to smuggle Tengku Long back into Singapore. Raffles offered to recognise Tengku Long as the rightful Sultan of Johor, under the title of Sultan Hussein, as well as provide him with a yearly payment of $5000 and another $3000 to the Temenggong; in return, Sultan Hussein would grant the British the right to establish a trading post on Singapore. The Treaty of Singapore was signed on 6 February 1819.
In 1824, a further treaty with the Sultan led to the entire island becoming a part of the British Empire. In 1826, Singapore became part of the Straits Settlements, then under the jurisdiction of British India. Singapore became the regional capital in 1836. Prior to Raffles' arrival, there were only about a thousand people living on the island, mostly indigenous Malays along with a handful of Chinese. By 1860 the population had swelled to over 80,000, more than half being Chinese. Many of these early immigrants came to work on the pepper and gambier plantations. In 1867, the Straits Settlements were separated from British India, coming under the direct control of Britain. Later, in the 1890s, when the rubber industry became established in Malaya and Singapore, the island became a global centre for rubber sorting and export.
Singapore was not greatly affected by the First World War (1914–18), as the conflict did not spread to Southeast Asia. The only significant event during the war was the 1915 Singapore Mutiny by Muslim sepoys from British India, who were garrisoned in Singapore. After hearing rumours that they were to be sent to fight the Ottoman Empire, a Muslim state, the soldiers rebelled, killing their officers and several British civilians before the mutiny was suppressed by non-Muslim troops arriving from Johore and Burma.
After World War I, the British built the large Singapore Naval Base as part of the defensive Singapore strategy. Originally announced in 1921, the construction of the base proceeded at a slow pace until the Japanese invasion of Manchuria in 1931. Costing $60 million and not fully completed in 1938, it was nonetheless the largest dry dock in the world, the third-largest floating dock, and had enough fuel tanks to support the entire British navy for six months. The base was defended by heavy 15-inch (380 mm) naval guns stationed at Fort Siloso, Fort Canning and Labrador, as well as a Royal Air Force airfield at Tengah Air Base. Winston Churchill touted it as the "Gibraltar of the East", and military discussions often referred to the base as simply "East of Suez". However, the British Home Fleet was stationed in Europe, and the British could not afford to build a second fleet to protect their interests in Asia. The plan was for the Home Fleet to sail quickly to Singapore in the event of an emergency. As a consequence, after World War II broke out in 1939, the fleet was fully occupied with defending Britain, leaving Singapore vulnerable to Japanese invasion.
Japanese occupation
Main article: Japanese occupation of SingaporeDuring the Pacific War, the Japanese invasion of Malaya culminated in the Battle of Singapore. When the British force of 60,000 troops surrendered on 15 February 1942, British prime minister Winston Churchill called the defeat "the worst disaster and largest capitulation in British history". British and Empire losses during the fighting for Singapore were heavy, with a total of nearly 85,000 personnel captured. About 5,000 were killed or wounded, of which Australians made up the majority. Japanese casualties during the fighting in Singapore amounted to 1,714 killed and 3,378 wounded. The occupation was to become a major turning point in the histories of several nations, including those of Japan, Britain, and Singapore. Japanese newspapers triumphantly declared the victory as deciding the general situation of the war. Between 5,000 and 25,000 ethnic Chinese people were killed in the subsequent Sook Ching massacre. British forces had planned to liberate Singapore in 1945/1946; however, the war ended before these operations could be carried out.
Post-war period
Main article: Colony of SingaporeAfter the Japanese surrender to the Allies on 15 August 1945, Singapore fell into a brief state of violence and disorder; looting and revenge-killing were widespread. British, Australian, and Indian troops led by Lord Louis Mountbatten returned to Singapore to receive the formal surrender of Japanese forces in the region from General Seishirō Itagaki on behalf of General Hisaichi Terauchi on 12 September 1945. Meanwhile, Tomoyuki Yamashita was tried by a US military commission for war crimes, but not for crimes committed by his troops in Malaya or Singapore. He was convicted and hanged in the Philippines on 23 February 1946.
Much of the infrastructure in Singapore had been destroyed during the war, including those needed to supply utilities. A shortage of food led to malnutrition, disease, and rampant crime and violence. A series of strikes in 1947 caused massive stoppages in public transport and other services. However, by late 1947 the economy began to recover, facilitated by a growing international demand for tin and rubber. The failure of Britain to successfully defend its colony against the Japanese changed its image in the eyes of Singaporeans. British Military Administration ended on 1 April 1946, and Singapore became a separate Crown Colony. In July 1947, separate Executive and Legislative Councils were established and the election of six members of the Legislative Council was scheduled for the following year.
During the 1950s, Chinese communists, with strong ties to the trade unions and Chinese schools, waged a guerrilla war against the government, leading to the Malayan Emergency. The 1954 National Service riots, Hock Lee bus riots, and Chinese middle schools riots in Singapore were all linked to these events. David Marshall, pro-independence leader of the Labour Front, won Singapore's first general election in 1955. He led a delegation to London, and Britain rejected his demand for complete self-rule. He resigned and was replaced by Lim Yew Hock in 1956, and after further negotiations Britain agreed to grant Singapore full internal self-government for all matters except defence and foreign affairs on 3 June 1959. Days before, in the 30 May 1959 election, the People's Action Party (PAP) won a landslide victory. Governor Sir William Allmond Codrington Goode served as the first Yang di-Pertuan Negara (Head of State).
Within Malaysia
Main article: Singapore in MalaysiaPAP leaders believed that Singapore's future lay with Malaya, due to strong ties between the two. It was thought that reuniting with Malaya would benefit the economy by creating a common market, alleviating ongoing unemployment woes in Singapore. However, a sizeable left-wing faction of the PAP was strongly opposed to the merger, fearing a loss of influence, and hence formed the Barisan Sosialis, after being kicked out from the PAP. The ruling party of Malaya, United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), was staunchly anti-communist, and it was suspected UMNO would support the non-communist factions of PAP. UMNO, initially sceptical of the idea of a merger due to distrust of the PAP government and concern that the large ethnic Chinese population in Singapore would alter the racial balance in Malaya on which their political power base depended, became supportive of the idea of the merger due to joint fear of a communist takeover.
On 27 May 1961, Malaya's prime minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, made a surprise proposal for a new Federation called Malaysia, which would unite the current and former British possessions in the region: the Federation of Malaya, Singapore, Brunei, North Borneo, and Sarawak. UMNO leaders believed that the additional Malay population in the Bornean territories would balance Singapore's Chinese population. The British government, for its part, believed that the merger would prevent Singapore from becoming a haven for communism. To obtain a mandate for a merger, the PAP held a referendum on the merger. This referendum included a choice of different terms for a merger with Malaysia and had no option for avoiding merger altogether. On 16 September 1963, Singapore joined with Malaya, the North Borneo, and Sarawak to form the new Federation of Malaysia under the terms of the Malaysia Agreement. Under this Agreement, Singapore had a relatively high level of autonomy compared to the other states of Malaysia.
Indonesia opposed the formation of Malaysia due to its own claims over Borneo and launched Konfrontasi ("Confrontation" in Indonesian) in response to the formation of Malaysia. On 10 March 1965, a bomb planted by Indonesian saboteurs on a mezzanine floor of MacDonald House exploded, killing three people and injuring 33 others. It was the deadliest of at least 42 bomb incidents which occurred during the confrontation. Two members of the Indonesian Marine Corps, Osman bin Haji Mohamed Ali and Harun bin Said, were eventually convicted and executed for the crime. The explosion caused US$250,000 (equivalent to US$2,417,107 in 2023) in damages to MacDonald House.
Even after the merger, the Singaporean government and the Malaysian central government disagreed on many political and economic issues. Despite an agreement to establish a common market, Singapore continued to face restrictions when trading with the rest of Malaysia. In retaliation, Singapore did not extend to Sabah and Sarawak the full extent of the loans agreed to for economic development of the two eastern states. Talks soon broke down, and abusive speeches and writing became rife on both sides. This led to communal strife in Singapore, culminating in the 1964 race riots. On 7 August 1965, Malaysian prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman, seeing no alternative to avoid further bloodshed (and with the help of secret negotiations by PAP leaders, as revealed in 2015) advised the Parliament of Malaysia that it should vote to expel Singapore from Malaysia. On 9 August 1965, the Malaysian Parliament voted 126 to 0 to move a bill to amend the constitution, expelling Singapore from Malaysia, which left Singapore as a newly independent country.
Republic of Singapore
See also: Independence of Singapore Agreement 1965After being expelled from Malaysia, Singapore became independent as the Republic of Singapore on 9 August 1965, with Lee Kuan Yew and Yusof bin Ishak as the first prime minister and president respectively. In 1967, the country co-founded the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Race riots broke out once more in 1969. Lee Kuan Yew's emphasis on rapid economic growth, support for business entrepreneurship, and limitations on internal democracy shaped Singapore's policies for the next half-century. Economic growth continued throughout the 1980s, with the unemployment rate falling to 3% and real GDP growth averaging at about 8% up until 1999. During the 1980s, Singapore began to shift towards high-tech industries, such as the wafer fabrication sector, in order to remain competitive as neighbouring countries began manufacturing with cheaper labour. Singapore Changi Airport was opened in 1981 and Singapore Airlines was formed. The Port of Singapore became one of the world's busiest ports and the service and tourism industries also grew immensely during this period.
The PAP has remained in power since independence. Some activists and opposition politicians see the government's strict regulation of political and media activities as an infringement on political rights. In response, Singapore has seen several significant political changes, such as the introduction of the non-constituency members of parliament in 1984 to allow up to three losing candidates from opposition parties to be appointed as MPs. Group representation constituencies (GRCs) were introduced in 1988 to create multi-seat electoral divisions, intended to ensure minority representation in parliament. Nominated members of parliament were introduced in 1990 to allow non-elected non-partisan MPs. The constitution was amended in 1991 to provide for an elected president who has veto power in the use of past reserves and appointments to certain public offices.
In 1990, Goh Chok Tong succeeded Lee and became Singapore's second prime minister. During Goh's tenure, the country went through the 1997 Asian financial crisis and the 2003 SARS outbreak. In 2004, Lee Hsien Loong, the eldest son of Lee Kuan Yew, became the country's third prime minister. Lee Hsien Loong's tenure included the 2007–2008 financial crisis, the resolution of a dispute over land ownership at Tanjong Pagar railway station between Singapore and Malaysia, the introduction of the two integrated resorts (IRs), located at the Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The PAP suffered its worst ever electoral results in 2011, winning just 60% of votes, amidst debate over issues including the influx of foreign workers and the high cost of living. On 23 March 2015, Lee Kuan Yew died, and a one-week period of public mourning was observed nationwide. Subsequently, the PAP regained its dominance in Parliament through the September general election, receiving 69.9% of the popular vote, although this remained lower than the 2001 tally of 75.3% and the 1968 tally of 86.7%. The 2020 election held in July saw the PAP drop to 61% of the vote, while the Workers' Party took 10 of the 93 seats, the highest number ever won by another party. On 15 May 2024, Lawrence Wong became Singapore's fourth Prime Minister; he is the first prime minister born after independence.
Government and politics
Main articles: Government of Singapore, Politics of Singapore, and Administrative divisions of SingaporeSingapore is a parliamentary republic based on the Westminster system. The Constitution of Singapore is the supreme law of the country, establishing the structure and responsibility of governance. The President is the head of state. The governance of Singapore is separated into three branches:
- Executive: The executive consists of the cabinet, led by the prime minister, and the Attorney General's Chambers led by the Attorney-General. The cabinet is collectively responsible for all government policies and the day-to-day administration of the affairs of state. It is typically composed of members of the Singapore Parliament. The prime minister is appointed by the President, and the ministers in the cabinet and the attorney-general are appointed by the president, acting on the advice and consent of the prime minister. The prime minister is the effective head of the executive branch of government.
- Legislature: The Singapore Parliament is unicameral and, together with the president, comprises the legislature. Members of Parliament (MP) consist of elected, non-constituency, and nominated members. The majority of MPs are elected into parliament at a general election. The Singapore Parliament is collectively responsible for enacting the laws governing the state. The president holds limited discretionary powers of oversight over the government. The president's veto powers are further subject to parliamentary overruling.
- Judiciary: The judiciary's function is to independently administer justice and is headed by the Chief Justice. The judges and judicial commissioners are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister. The Supreme Court and State Courts adjudicates in civil disputes between persons, convicts or acquits accused persons in criminal prosecutions, and interprets laws to decide on its constitutionality. Any law or provision of a law found to be unconstitutional can be struck down by the Supreme Court.
The president is directly elected by popular vote for a renewable six-year term. Requirements for this position, which were enacted by the PAP government, are extremely stringent, such that only a handful of people qualify for the candidacy. These qualifications include that a candidate needs to be a person at least 45 years of age who is no longer a member of a political party, to either have held public office for at least 3 years in a number of specific public service leadership roles, or to have 3 years experience as chief executive of a fully profitable private sector company with at least S$500 million in shareholders' equity, be a resident in Singapore for at least 10 years, not have a criminal record, and more. Candidates must also "satisfy" the Presidential Elections Committee (PEC) that he or she is a person of integrity, good character and reputation.
From 2017, the Constitution requires that presidential elections be "reserved" for a racial community if no one from that ethnic group has been elected to the presidency in the five most recent terms. Only members of that community may qualify as candidates in a reserved presidential election. In the 2017 presidential election, this combination of stringent requirements and a reserved election that required the candidate to be of the 13% Malay ethnic group led to the PEC approving a single candidate for the presidency; Halimah Yacob, considered part of the Malay community, won in an uncontested election. She also became Singapore's first female president.
Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected at least every five years (or sooner with a snap election). The 14th and current Parliament has 103 members; 93 were directly elected from the 31 constituencies, nine are nonpartisan nominated members appointed by the president, and three are non-constituency members from opposition parties who were not elected in the last general election but appointed to the legislature to increase opposition party representation. In group representation constituencies (GRCs), political parties assemble teams of candidates to contest elections. At least one MP in a GRC must be of an ethnic minority background. All elections are held using first-past-the-post voting. MPs host weekly political surgeries, called "Meet-the-People Sessions", where they help constituents resolve personal issues which can be related to housing, financial assistance, and immigration.
The People's Action Party occupies a dominant position in Singaporean politics, having won large parliamentary majorities in every election since self-governance was granted in 1959. The PAP, self-described as pragmatic, have a syncretic ideology combining free-market principles, civil nationalism, and welfarism. Despite promulgating restrictions on civil liberties, Singapore under the PAP has seen consistent economic growth and political stability. The most represented and popular opposition party is the centre-left Workers' Party, which holds 8 seats in Parliament.
The long-standing hegemony of the People's Action Party has led to Singapore being described by academics as an illiberal democracy, or a soft-authoritarian state in which the PAP faces little to no feasible political competition to its rule of the country. The multi-party democratic process of Singapore has been described as "minimal" in comparison to the state's focus on economic development and social order. According to Gordon P. Means, professor emeritus of political science at McMaster University, Singapore reinvented the "benevolent" yet "highly authoritarian" colonial system of governance inherited from Britain rather than forging a full democracy. A conservative ideology of "Asian values" evolved to replace British rule, based on "communal loyalty, distrust of government, and avoidance of individual or collective responsibility for wider public interests", with less regard for human rights in the nascent Western sense. The fact that "neither the public nor elites had experience with democracy" helped create Singapore's political culture, as dominated by status-focused hierarchies committed to economic development. The legacy of Asian values and the limited political culture within Singapore has led to the country being described as "classic illustration of soft authoritarianism", and "profoundly illiberal".
The judicial system is based on English common law, continuing the legal tradition established during British rule and with substantial local differences. Criminal law is based on the Indian Penal Code originally intended for British India, and was at the time as a crown colony also adopted by the British colonial authorities in Singapore and remains the basis of the criminal code in the country with a few exceptions, amendments and repeals since it came into force. Trial by jury was abolished in 1970. Singapore is known for its strict laws and conservative stances on crime; both corporal punishment (by caning) and capital punishment (by hanging) are retained and commonly used as legal penalties.
The right to freedom of speech and association is guaranteed by Article 14(1) of the Constitution of Singapore, although there are provisions in the subsequent subsection that regulate them. The government has restricted freedom of speech and freedom of the press as well as some civil and political rights. In 2023, Singapore was ranked 129th out of 180 nations by Reporters Without Borders on the global Press Freedom Index. Freedom House ranks Singapore as "partly free" in its Freedom in the World report, and the Economist Intelligence Unit ranks Singapore as a "flawed democracy", the second freest rank of four, in its "Democracy Index". All public gatherings of five or more people require police permits, and protests may legally be held only at the Speakers' Corner.
In the Corruption Perceptions Index, which ranks countries by "perceived levels of public sector corruption", Singapore has consistently ranked as one of the least corrupt countries in the world, in spite of being illiberal. Singapore's unique combination of a strong, soft authoritarian government with an emphasis on meritocracy is known as the "Singapore model", and is regarded as a key factor behind Singapore's political stability, economic growth, and harmonious social order. In 2021, the World Justice Project's Rule of Law Index ranked Singapore as 17th overall among the world's 193 countries for adherence to the rule of law. Singapore ranked high on the factors of order and security (#3), absence of corruption (#3), regulatory enforcement (#4), civil justice (#8), and criminal justice (#7), and ranked significantly lower on factors of open government (#34), constraints on government powers (#32), and fundamental rights (#38).
Foreign relations
Main article: Foreign relations of SingaporeSingapore's stated foreign policy priority is maintaining security in Southeast Asia and surrounding territories. An underlying principle is political and economic stability in the region. It has diplomatic relations with more than 180 sovereign states.
As one of the five founding members of ASEAN, Singapore is a strong supporter of the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and the ASEAN Investment Area (AIA); it is also the host of the APEC Secretariat. Singapore is also a founding member of The Forum of Small States (FOSS), a voluntary and informal grouping at the UN.
Singapore maintains membership in other regional organisations, such as Asia–Europe Meeting, the Forum for East Asia-Latin American Cooperation, the Indian Ocean Rim Association, and the East Asia Summit. It is also a member of the Non-Aligned Movement, the United Nations and the Commonwealth. While Singapore is not a formal member of the G20, it has been invited to participate in G20 processes in most years since 2010. Singapore is also the location of the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council (PECC) Secretariat.
In general, bilateral relations with other ASEAN members are strong; however, disagreements have arisen, and relations with neighbouring Malaysia and Indonesia have sometimes been strained. Malaysia and Singapore have clashed over the delivery of fresh water to Singapore, and access by the Singapore Armed Forces to Malaysian airspace. Border issues exist with Malaysia and Indonesia, and both have banned the sale of marine sand to Singapore over disputes about Singapore's land reclamation. Some previous disputes, such as the Pedra Branca dispute, have been resolved by the International Court of Justice. Piracy in the Strait of Malacca has been a cause of concern for all three countries. Close economic ties exist with Brunei, and the two share a pegged currency value, through a Currency Interchangeability Agreement between the two countries which makes both Brunei dollar and Singapore dollar banknotes and coins legal tender in either country.
The first diplomatic contact with China was made in the 1970s, with full diplomatic relations established in the 1990s. China has been Singapore's largest trading partner since 2013, after surpassing Malaysia. Singapore and the United States share a long-standing close relationship, in particular in defence, the economy, health, and education. Singapore has also increased co-operation with ASEAN members and China to strengthen regional security and fight terrorism, and participated in ASEAN's first joint maritime exercise with China in 2018. It has also given support to the US-led coalition to fight terrorism, with bilateral co-operation in counter-terrorism and counter-proliferation initiatives, and joint military exercises.
As Singapore has diplomatic relations with both the United States and North Korea, and was one of the few countries that have relationships with both countries, in June 2018, it hosted a historic summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, the first-ever meeting between the sitting leaders of the two nations. It also hosted the Ma–Xi meeting in 2015, the first meeting between the political leaders of the two sides of the Taiwan Strait since the end of the Chinese Civil War in 1950.
Military
Main article: Singapore Armed ForcesThe Singaporean military, arguably the most technologically advanced in Southeast Asia, consists of the Army, the Navy, the Air Force and the Digital and Intelligence Service. It is seen as the guarantor of the country's independence, translating into Singapore culture, involving all citizens in the country's defence. The government spent 2.7% of the country's GDP on the military in 2024, the highest in the region.
After its independence, Singapore had only two infantry regiments commanded by British officers. Considered too small to provide effective security for the new country, the development of its military forces became a priority. In addition, in October 1971, Britain pulled its military out of Singapore, leaving behind only a small British, Australian and New Zealand force as a token military presence. A great deal of initial support came from Israel, a country unrecognised by Singapore's neighbouring Muslim-majority nations of Malaysia and Indonesia. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) commanders were tasked by the Singapore Government to create the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) from scratch, and Israeli instructors were brought in to train Singaporean soldiers. Military courses were conducted according to the IDF's format, and Singapore adopted a system of conscription and reserve service based on the Israeli model. Singapore still maintains strong security ties with Israel and is one of the biggest buyers of Israeli arms and weapons systems, with one recent example being the MATADOR anti-tank weapon.
The SAF is being developed to respond to a wide range of issues in both conventional and unconventional warfare. The Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) is responsible for procuring resources for the military. The geographic restrictions of Singapore mean that the SAF must plan to fully repulse an attack, as they cannot fall back and re-group. The small size of the population has also affected the way the SAF has been designed, with a small active force and a large number of reserves.
Singapore has conscription for all able-bodied males at age 18, except those with a criminal record or who can prove that their loss would bring hardship to their families. Males who have yet to complete pre-university education, are awarded the Public Service Commission (PSC) scholarship, or are pursuing a local medical degree can opt to defer their draft. Though not required to perform military service, the number of women in the SAF has been increasing: since 1989 they have been allowed to fill military vocations formerly reserved for men. Before induction into a specific branch of the armed forces, recruits undergo at least nine weeks of basic military training.
Because of the scarcity of open land on the main island, training involving activities such as live firing and amphibious warfare are often carried out on smaller islands, typically barred to civilian access. However, large-scale drills, considered too dangerous to be performed in the country, have been performed in other countries such as Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand and the United States. In general, military exercises are held with foreign forces once or twice per week. Due to airspace and land constraints, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) maintains a number of overseas bases in Australia, the United States, and France. The RSAF's 130 Squadron is based in RAAF Base Pearce, Western Australia, and its 126 Squadron is based in the Oakey Army Aviation Centre, Queensland. The RSAF has one squadron—the 150 Squadron—based in Cazaux Air Base in southern France. The RSAF's overseas detachments in the United States are: Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, Marana in Arizona, Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho, and Andersen Air Force Base in Guam.
The SAF has sent forces to assist in operations outside the country, in areas such as Iraq, and Afghanistan, in both military and civilian roles. In the region, they have helped to stabilise East Timor and have provided aid to Aceh in Indonesia following the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. Since 2009, the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) has deployed ships to the Gulf of Aden to aid in countering piracy efforts as part of Task Force 151. The SAF also helped in relief efforts during Hurricane Katrina, and Typhoon Haiyan. Singapore is part of the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA), a military alliance with Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. According to the 2024 Global Peace Index, Singapore is the 5th most peaceful country in the world.
Human rights
Main article: Human rights in Singapore See also: Abortion in Singapore, Capital punishment in Singapore, and LGBT rights in SingaporeCapital punishment is a legal and enforced penalty in Singapore. The country is one of four in the developed world to retain the death penalty, along with the United States, Japan and Taiwan. Particularly, its use against drug trafficking has been a source of contention with non-governmental organisations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch. The government has responded that it has "no doubts" that it is the right policy and that there is "clear evidence" of serious deterrence, and that the law should be looked at upon in the wider context of "saving lives", particularly citizens. In 2004, Amnesty International claimed that some legal provisions of the Singapore system for the death penalty conflict with "the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty". The government has disputed Amnesty's claims, stating that their "position on abolition of the death penalty is by no means uncontested internationally" and that the report contains "grave errors of facts and misrepresentations".
From 1938 to 2023, sexual relations between men were technically illegal under Section 377A of the Penal Code, first introduced during British colonial rule. During the last few decades, this law was mostly unenforced and pressure to repeal it increased as homosexuality became more accepted by Singaporean society. Meanwhile, sexual relations between women had always been legal. In 2022, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced that Singapore would repeal 377A, effectively decriminalising homosexual behaviour. Nevertheless, he added that the repeal will not affect the recognition of "traditional familial and societal norms," including how marriage is defined, leaving the legal status of same-sex marriage unchanged for the time, although the possibility of civil unions was not officially ruled out. Lee described this as a compromise between the conservative (and often religious) and progressive elements of Singaporean society to prevent further political fracturing. The law was officially repealed on 3 January 2023.
Pink Dot SG, an event held in support of the LGBT community, has drawn thousands of people annually since 2009 with increasing attendance. According to a survey conducted by the Institute of Policy Studies in 2019, Singaporean society has become more liberal on LGBT rights. In the survey, more than 20% of people said that sexual relations between adults of the same sex were not wrong at all or not wrong most of the time, up from 10% in 2013. The survey found that 27% felt the same way about same-sex marriage (an increase from 15% in 2013) and 30% did so about same-sex couples adopting a child (an increase from 24% in 2013). In 2021, six Singaporeans protested for improved trans protections in the educational system outside the Ministry of Education headquarters at Buona Vista.
Pimps often traffic women from neighbouring countries such as China, Malaysia and Vietnam at their brothels as well as rented apartments and hostels for higher profit margins when they get a cut from customers. In response, amendments were made to the Women's Charter by the government in 2019 to legislate more serious punishments for traffickers, including imprisonment of up to seven years and a fine of S$100,000.
Economy
Main article: Economy of SingaporeSingapore has a highly developed market economy, based historically on extended entrepôt trade. Along with Hong Kong, South Korea, and Taiwan, Singapore is one of the Four Asian Tigers, and has surpassed its peers in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita. Between 1965 and 1995, growth rates averaged around 6 per cent per annum, transforming the living standards of the population.
The Singaporean economy is regarded as free, innovative, dynamic and business-friendly. For several years, Singapore has been one of the few countries with a AAA credit rating from the big three, and the only Asian country to achieve this rating. Singapore attracts a large amount of foreign investment as a result of its location, skilled workforce, low tax rates, advanced infrastructure and zero-tolerance against corruption. It was the world's 4th most competitive economy in 2023, according to the International Institute for Management Development's World Competitiveness Ranking of 64 countries, with the highest GDP (PPP) per capita. Roughly 44 percent of the Singaporean workforce is made up of non-Singaporeans. Despite market freedom, Singapore's government operations have a significant stake in the economy, contributing 22% of the GDP. The city is a popular location for conferences and events.
The currency of Singapore is the Singapore dollar (SGD or S$), issued by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). It has been interchangeable with the Brunei dollar at par value since 1967. MAS manages its monetary policy by allowing the Singapore dollar exchange rate to rise or fall within an undisclosed trading band. This is different from most central banks, which use interest rates to manage policy. Singapore has the world's eleventh largest foreign reserves, and one of the highest net international investment position per capita.
Singapore has been identified as a tax haven for the wealthy due to its low tax rates on personal income and tax exemptions on foreign-based income and capital gains. Individuals such as Australian millionaire retailer Brett Blundy and multi-billionaire Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin are two examples of wealthy individuals who have settled in Singapore. In 2009, Singapore was removed from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) "liste grise" of tax havens, and ranked fourth on the Tax Justice Network's 2015 Financial Secrecy Index of the world's off-shore financial service providers, banking one-eighth of the world's offshore capital, while "providing numerous tax avoidance and evasion opportunities". In August 2016, The Straits Times reported that Indonesia had decided to create tax havens on two islands near Singapore to bring Indonesian capital back into the tax base. In October 2016, the Monetary Authority of Singapore admonished and fined UBS and DBS and withdrew Falcon Private Bank's banking licence for their alleged role in the Malaysian Sovereign Fund scandal.
In 2016, Singapore was rated the world's most expensive city for the third consecutive year by the Economist Intelligence Unit, and this remained true in 2018. The government provides numerous assistance programmes to the homeless and needy through the Ministry of Social and Family Development, so acute poverty is rare. Some of the programmes include providing financial assistance to needy households, providing free medical care at government hospitals, and paying for children's tuition. Other benefits include compensation for gym fees to encourage citizens to exercise, up to S$166,000 as a baby bonus for each citizen, heavily subsidised healthcare, financial aid for the disabled, the provision of reduced-cost laptops for poor students, rebates for costs such as public transport and utility bills, and more. As of 2018 Singapore's ranking in the Human Development Index is 9th in the world, with an HDI value of 0.935.
Geography
Main article: Geography of Singapore See also: Land reclamation in SingaporeSingapore consists of 63 islands, including the main island, Pulau Ujong. There are two man-made connections to Johor, Malaysia: the Johor–Singapore Causeway in the north and the Tuas Second Link in the west. Jurong Island, Pulau Tekong, Pulau Ubin and Sentosa are the largest of Singapore's smaller islands. The highest natural point is Bukit Timah Hill at 163.63 m (537 ft). Under British rule, Christmas Island and the Cocos Islands were part of Singapore, and both were transferred to Australia in 1957. Pedra Branca is the nation's easternmost point.
Land reclamation projects have increased Singapore's land area from 580 km (220 sq mi) in the 1960s to 710 km (270 sq mi) by 2015, an increase of some 22% (130 km). The country is projected to reclaim another 56 km (20 sq mi). Some projects involve merging smaller islands through land reclamation to form larger, more functional and habitable islands, as has been done with Jurong Island. The type of sand used in reclamation is found in rivers and beaches, rather than deserts, and is in great demand worldwide. In 2010 Singapore imported almost 15 million tons of sand for its projects, the demand being such that Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam have all restricted or barred the export of sand to Singapore in recent years. As a result, in 2016 Singapore switched to using polders for reclamation, in which an area is enclosed and then pumped dry.
Nature
Main article: Wildlife of SingaporeSingapore's urbanisation means that it has lost 95% of its historical forests, and now over half of the naturally occurring fauna and flora in Singapore is present in nature reserves, such as the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, which comprise only 0.25% of Singapore's land area. In 1967, to combat this decline in natural space, the government introduced the vision of making Singapore a "garden city", aiming to improve quality of life. Since then, nearly 10% of Singapore's land has been set aside for parks and nature reserves. The government has created plans to preserve the country's remaining wildlife. Singapore's well known gardens include the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a 165-year-old tropical garden and Singapore's first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Climate
See also: Climate change in SingaporeSingapore has a tropical rainforest climate (Köppen: Af) with no distinctive seasons, uniform temperature and pressure, high humidity, and abundant rainfall. Temperatures usually range from 23 to 32 °C (73 to 90 °F). While temperature does not vary greatly throughout the year, there is a wetter monsoon season from November to February.
From July to October, there is often haze caused by bush fires in neighbouring Indonesia, usually from the island of Sumatra. Singapore follows the GMT+8 time zone, one hour ahead of the typical zone for its geographical location. This causes the sun to rise and set particularly late during February, where the sun rises at 7:15 am and sets around 7:20 pm. During July, the sun sets at around 7:15 pm. The earliest the sun rises and sets is in late October and early November when the sun rises at 6:46 am and sets at 6:50 pm.
Singapore recognises that climate change and rising sea levels in the decades ahead will have major implications for its low-lying coastline. It estimates that the nation will need to spend $100 billion over the course of the next century to address the issue. In its 2020 budget, the government set aside an initial $5 billion towards a Coastline and Flood Protection Fund. Singapore is the first country in Southeast Asia to levy a carbon tax on its largest carbon-emitting corporations producing more than 25,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year, at $5 per ton.
To reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels, it has ramped up deployment of solar panels on rooftops and vertical surfaces of buildings, and other initiatives like building one of the world's largest floating solar farms at Tengeh Reservoir in Tuas.
Climate data for Singapore (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1929–1941 and 1948–present) | |||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
Record high °C (°F) | 35.2 (95.4) |
35.2 (95.4) |
36.0 (96.8) |
35.8 (96.4) |
35.4 (95.7) |
35.0 (95.0) |
34.0 (93.2) |
34.2 (93.6) |
34.4 (93.9) |
34.6 (94.3) |
34.6 (94.3) |
35.6 (96.1) |
36.0 (96.8) |
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) | 30.6 (87.1) |
31.5 (88.7) |
32.2 (90.0) |
32.4 (90.3) |
32.3 (90.1) |
31.9 (89.4) |
31.4 (88.5) |
31.4 (88.5) |
31.6 (88.9) |
31.8 (89.2) |
31.2 (88.2) |
30.5 (86.9) |
31.6 (88.9) |
Daily mean °C (°F) | 26.8 (80.2) |
27.3 (81.1) |
27.8 (82.0) |
28.2 (82.8) |
28.6 (83.5) |
28.5 (83.3) |
28.2 (82.8) |
28.1 (82.6) |
28.0 (82.4) |
27.9 (82.2) |
27.2 (81.0) |
26.8 (80.2) |
27.8 (82.0) |
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) | 24.3 (75.7) |
24.6 (76.3) |
24.9 (76.8) |
25.3 (77.5) |
25.7 (78.3) |
25.7 (78.3) |
25.4 (77.7) |
25.3 (77.5) |
25.2 (77.4) |
25.0 (77.0) |
24.6 (76.3) |
24.3 (75.7) |
25.0 (77.0) |
Record low °C (°F) | 19.4 (66.9) |
19.7 (67.5) |
20.2 (68.4) |
20.7 (69.3) |
21.2 (70.2) |
20.8 (69.4) |
19.7 (67.5) |
20.2 (68.4) |
20.7 (69.3) |
20.6 (69.1) |
21.1 (70.0) |
20.6 (69.1) |
19.4 (66.9) |
Average rainfall mm (inches) | 221.6 (8.72) |
105.1 (4.14) |
151.7 (5.97) |
164.3 (6.47) |
164.3 (6.47) |
135.3 (5.33) |
146.6 (5.77) |
146.9 (5.78) |
124.9 (4.92) |
168.3 (6.63) |
252.3 (9.93) |
331.9 (13.07) |
2,113.2 (83.20) |
Average rainy days (≥ 0.2 mm) | 13 | 9 | 12 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 15 | 19 | 19 | 171 |
Average relative humidity (%) | 83.5 | 81.2 | 81.7 | 82.6 | 82.3 | 80.9 | 80.9 | 80.7 | 80.7 | 81.5 | 84.9 | 85.5 | 82.2 |
Mean monthly sunshine hours | 180.4 | 198.6 | 196.6 | 182.4 | 184.8 | 175.4 | 188.5 | 184.6 | 161.4 | 155.0 | 133.2 | 133.1 | 2,074 |
Source 1: National Environment Agency | |||||||||||||
Source 2: NOAA (sun only, 1991–2020) |
Water supply
Main article: Water supply and sanitation in SingaporeSingapore considers water a national security issue and the government has sought to emphasise conservation. Water access is universal and of high quality, though the country is projected to face significant water-stress by 2040. To circumvent this, the Public Utilities Board has implemented the "four national taps" strategy – water imported from neighbouring Malaysia, urban rainwater catchments, reclaimed water (NEWater) and seawater desalination. Singapore's approach does not rely only on physical infrastructure; it also emphasises proper legislation and enforcement, water pricing, public education as well as research and development. Singapore has declared that it will be water self-sufficient by the time its 1961 long-term water supply agreement with Malaysia expires in 2061. However, according to official forecasts, water demand in Singapore is expected to double from 1.4 to 2.8 billion litres (1.4 to 2.8 million cubic metres; 370 to 740 million US gallons) per day between 2010 and 2060. The increase is expected to come primarily from non-domestic water use, which accounted for 55% of water demand in 2010 and is expected to account for 70% of demand in 2060. By that time, water demand is expected to be met by reclaimed water at the tune of 50% and by desalination accounting for 30%, compared to only 20% supplied by internal catchments.
Singapore is expanding its recycling system and intends to spend S$10 billion (US$7.4 billion) in water treatment infrastructure upgrades. The Ulu Pandan wastewater treatment was specially built to test advanced used-water treatment processes before full deployment and won the Water/Wastewater Project of the Year Award at the 2018 Global Water Awards in Paris, France. Operation started in 2017 and was jointly developed by PUB and the Black & Veatch + AECOM Joint Venture.
Virtual Singapore
Main article: Virtual SingaporeVirtual Singapore is a 3D digital replica of Singapore, which is used by the Government of Singapore, Singapore Land Authority, and many more companies to plan for industrial changes. It is also used for disaster management.
Transport
Main article: Transport in SingaporeLand
- MRT provides fast and efficient travel across the city
- An LRT Train at Bukit Panjang station
- Buses are common types of transport
Singapore has a road system covering 3,356 kilometres (2,085 mi), which includes 161 kilometres (100 mi) of expressways. The Singapore Area Licensing Scheme, implemented in 1975, became the world's first congestion pricing scheme, and included other complementary measures such as stringent car ownership quotas and improvements in mass transit. Upgraded in 1998 and renamed Electronic Road Pricing (ERP), the system introduced electronic toll collection, electronic detection, and video surveillance technology. A satellite-based system was due to replace the physical gantries by 2020, but has been delayed until 2026 due to global shortages in the supply of semiconductors. As Singapore is a small island with a high population density, the number of private cars on the road is restricted with a pre-set car population quota, to curb pollution and congestion. Car buyers must pay for Additional Registration Fees (ARF) duties of either 100%, 140%, 180% or 220% of the vehicle's Open Market Value (OMV), and bid for a Singaporean Certificate of Entitlement (COE) (that varies twice a month in supply based on the number of car registrations and de-registrations), which allows the car to be driven on the road for maximum period of 10 years. Car prices are generally significantly higher in Singapore than in other English-speaking countries. As with most Commonwealth countries, vehicles on the road and people walking on the streets keep to the left (left-hand traffic).
Singapore's public transport network is shaped up with trains (consisting of the MRT and LRT systems), buses and taxis. There are currently six MRT lines (North–South MRT line, East–West MRT line, North East MRT line, Circle MRT line, Downtown MRT line and Thomson–East Coast MRT line), three LRT lines serving the neighbourhoods of Bukit Panjang and Choa Chu Kang (Bukit Panjang LRT line), Sengkang (Sengkang LRT line) and Punggol (Punggol LRT line), covering around 241 km (150 mi) in total, and more than 300 bus routes in operation. Taxis are a popular form of transport as the fares are relatively affordable when compared to many other developed countries, whilst cars in Singapore are the most expensive to own worldwide.
The Johor–Singapore Causeway (connecting Singapore with Johor Bahru, Malaysia) is the busiest international land border crossing in the world, whereby approximately 350,000 travellers cross the border checkpoints of both Woodlands Checkpoint and Sultan Iskandar Building daily (with an annual total of 128 million travellers). The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is responsible for all land transport-related infrastructure and operations in Singapore.
Air
Singapore is a major international transport hub in Asia, serving some of the busiest sea and air trade routes. Changi Airport is an aviation centre for Southeast Asia and a stopover on Qantas' Kangaroo Route between Sydney and London. There are two civilian airports in Singapore, Changi Airport and Seletar Airport. The Changi Airport hosts a network of over 100 airlines connecting Singapore to some 300 cities in about 70 countries and territories worldwide. It has been rated one of the best international airports by international travel magazines, including being rated as the world's best airport for the first time in 2006 by Skytrax. It also had three of the ten busiest international air routes in the world in 2023: the busiest between Kuala Lumpur–Singapore, seventh busiest between Jakarta–Singapore, and ninth busiest between Bangkok Suvarnahbumi–Singapore.
Singapore Airlines, which is the flag carrier of Singapore, has been regarded as a 5-star airline by Skytrax and been in the world top 10 list of airlines for multiple consecutive years. It held the title of the World's Best Airline by Skytrax in 2023. It won this title 12 times. Its hub, Changi Airport had also been rated as the world's best airport from 2013 to 2020 before being superseded by Hamad International Airport in Doha. It reclaimed this title in 2023 before being superseded once more in 2024.
Sea
The Port of Singapore, managed by port operators PSA International and Jurong Port, was the world's second-busiest port in 2019 in terms of shipping tonnage handled, at 2.85 billion gross tons (GT), and in terms of containerised traffic, at 37.2 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). It is also the world's second-busiest, behind Shanghai, in terms of cargo tonnage with 626 million tons handled. In addition, the port is the world's busiest for transshipment traffic and the world's biggest ship refuelling centre.
Industry sectors
Singapore is the world's 3rd-largest foreign exchange centre, 6th-largest financial centre, 2nd-largest casino gambling market, 3rd-largest oil-refining and trading centre, largest oil-rig producer and hub for ship repair services, and largest logistics hub. The economy is diversified, with its top contributors being financial services, manufacturing, and oil-refining. Its main exports are refined petroleum, integrated circuits, and computers, which constituted 27% of the country's GDP in 2010. Other significant sectors include electronics, chemicals, mechanical engineering, and biomedical sciences. Singapore was ranked 4th in the Global Innovation Index in 2024 and 7th in 2022. In 2019, there were more than 60 semiconductor companies in Singapore, which together constituted 11% of the global market share. The semiconductor industry alone contributes around 7% of Singapore's GDP.
Singapore's largest companies are in the telecommunications, banking, transportation, and manufacturing sectors, many of which started as state-run statutory corporations and have since been publicly listed on the Singapore Exchange. Such companies include Singapore Telecommunications (Singtel), Singapore Technologies Engineering, Keppel Corporation, Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation (OCBC), Development Bank of Singapore (DBS), and United Overseas Bank (UOB). In 2011, amidst the global financial crisis, OCBC, DBS and UOB were ranked by Bloomberg Businessweek as the world's 1st, 5th, and 6th strongest banks in the world, respectively. It is home to the headquarters of 3 Fortune Global 500 companies, the highest in the region.
The nation's best known global companies include Singapore Airlines, Changi Airport, and the Port of Singapore, all of which are among the most-awarded in their respective fields. Singapore Airlines was ranked as Asia's most-admired company, and the world's 19th most-admired company in 2015 by Fortune's annual "50 most admired companies in the world" industry surveys. Other awards it has received include the US-based Travel + Leisure's Best International Airline award, which it has won for 20 consecutive years. Changi Airport connects over 100 airlines to more than 300 cities. The strategic international air hub has more than 480 World's Best Airport awards as of 2015, and is known as the most-awarded airport in the world. Over ten free-trade agreements have been signed with other countries and regions. Singapore is the second-largest foreign investor in India. It is the 14th largest exporter and the 15th largest importer in the world.
Tourism
Main article: Tourism in SingaporeTourism is a major industry and contributor to the Singaporean economy, attracting 13.6 million international tourists in 2023, more than double Singapore's total population. Tourism contributed directly to about 3% of Singapore's GPD, on average, in the 10 years before 2023, excluding the Covid-19 pandemic years. Altogether, the sector generated approximately 8.6% of Singapore's employment in 2016.
In 2015, Lonely Planet and The New York Times listed Singapore as their top and 6th-best world destinations to visit, respectively. Well-known landmarks include the Merlion, the Esplanade, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Jewel Changi Airport, CHIJMES, National Gallery Singapore, the Singapore Flyer, the Orchard Road shopping belt, the resort island of Sentosa, and the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, all located in southern and eastern Singapore.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is the statutory board under the Ministry of Trade and Industry which is tasked with the promotion of the country's tourism industry. In August 2017 the STB and the Economic Development Board (EDB) unveiled a unified brand, Singapore – Passion Made Possible, to market Singapore internationally for tourism and business purposes. The Orchard Road district, which contains multi-storey shopping centres and hotels, can be considered the centre of shopping and tourism in Singapore. Other popular tourist attractions include the Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, Bird Paradise and Night Safari (located in Northern Singapore). The Singapore Zoo has embraced the open zoo concept whereby animals are kept in enclosures, separated from visitors by hidden dry or wet moats, instead of caging the animals, and the River Wonders has 300 species of animals, including numerous endangered species. Singapore promotes itself as a medical tourism hub, with about 200,000 foreigners seeking medical care there each year. Singapore medical services aim to serve at least one million foreign patients annually and generate US$3 billion in revenue.
Demographics
Main articles: Demographics of Singapore and Singaporeans See also: Race in SingaporeAs of mid-2023, the estimated population of Singapore was 5,917,600, of whom 3,610,700 (61.6%) were citizens and the remaining 2,306,900 (38.4%) were either permanent residents (522,300) or international students, foreign workers, or dependants (1,644,500). The overall population increased 5% from the prior year, driven largely by foreign workers. This proportion is largely unchanged from the 2010 census.
The 2020 census reported that about 74.3% of residents were of Chinese descent, 13.5% of Malay descent, 9.0% of Indian descent, and 3.2% of other descent (such as Eurasian); this proportion was virtually identical to the 2010 census, with slight increases among Chinese and Malay (0.2% and 0.1% respectively) and minor decreases in Indian and others (0.2% and 0.1%). Prior to 2010, each person could register as a member of only one race, by default that of his or her father; therefore, mixed-race persons were solely grouped under their father's race in government censuses. From 2010 onward, people may register using a multi-racial classification, in which they may choose one primary race and one secondary race, but no more than two.
Like other developed countries in Asia, Singapore experienced a rapid decline in its total fertility rate (TFR) beginning in the 1980s. Since 2010, its TFR has largely plateaued at 1.1 children per woman, which is among the lowest in the world and well below the 2.1 needed to replace the population. Consequently, the median age of Singaporean residents is among the highest in the world, at 42.8 in 2022 compared to 39.6 ten years earlier. Starting in 2001, the government introduced a series of programs to increase fertility, including paid maternity leave, childcare subsidies, tax relief and rebates, one-time cash gifts, and grants for companies that implement flexible work arrangements; nevertheless, live births have continued to decline, hitting a record low in 2022. Singapore's immigration policy is designed to alleviate the decline and maintain its working-age population.
91% of resident households (i.e. households headed by a Singapore citizen or permanent resident) own the homes they live in, and the average household size is 3.43 persons (which include dependants who are neither citizens nor permanent residents). However, due to scarcity of land, 78.7% of resident households live in subsidised, high-rise, public housing apartments developed by the Housing and Development Board (HDB). Also, 75.9% of resident households live in properties that are equal to, or larger than, a four-room (i.e. three bedrooms plus one living room) HDB flat or in private housing. Live-in foreign domestic workers are quite common in Singapore, with about 224,500 foreign domestic workers there, as of December 2013.
Largest towns and planning areas in Singapore Singapore Department of Statistics population report for June 2023 | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rank | Name | Region | Pop. | Rank | Name | Region | Pop. | ||
Bedok Tampines |
1 | Bedok | East | 279,510 | 11 | Ang Mo Kio | North-East | 161,180 | Jurong West Sengkang |
2 | Tampines | East | 274,360 | 12 | Bukit Merah | Central | 149,530 | ||
3 | Jurong West | West | 259,740 | 13 | Pasir Ris | East | 146,930 | ||
4 | Sengkang | North-East | 257,190 | 14 | Bukit Panjang | West | 138,940 | ||
5 | Woodlands | North | 255,390 | 15 | Toa Payoh | Central | 134,610 | ||
6 | Hougang | North-East | 227,610 | 16 | Serangoon | North-East | 118,780 | ||
7 | Yishun | North | 228,910 | 17 | Geylang | Central | 114,750 | ||
8 | Choa Chu Kang | West | 191,480 | 18 | Sembawang | North | 109,120 | ||
9 | Punggol | North-East | 194,750 | 19 | Kallang | Central | 100,870 | ||
10 | Bukit Batok | West | 168,560 | 20 | Queenstown | Central | 99,690 |
Religion
Main article: Religion in SingaporeMost major religious denominations are present in Singapore, with the Inter-Religious Organisation, Singapore (IRO) recognising 10 major religions in the city state. A 2014 analysis by the Pew Research Center found Singapore to be the world's most religiously diverse nation, with no single religion claiming a majority.
Religion in Singapore, 2020 | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Religion | Percent | |||
Buddhism | 31.1% | |||
No religion | 20.0% | |||
Christianity | 18.9% | |||
Islam | 15.6% | |||
Taoism and folk religion | 8.8% | |||
Hinduism | 5.0% | |||
Other religions | 0.6% |
Buddhism is the most widely practised religion, with 31% of residents declaring themselves adherents in the 2020 census. Christianity was the second largest religion at 18.9%, followed by Islam (15.6%), Taoism and Chinese Traditional Beliefs (8.8%) and Hinduism (5.0%). One-fifth of the population had no religious affiliation. The proportion of Christians, Muslims, and the nonreligious slightly increased between 2010 and 2020, while the proportion of Buddhists and Taoists slightly decreased; Hinduism and other faiths remained largely stable in their share of the population.
Singapore hosts monasteries and Dharma centres from all three major traditions of Buddhism: Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. Most Buddhists in Singapore are Chinese and adhere to the Mahayana tradition, owing to decades of missionary activity from China. However, Thailand's Theravada Buddhism has seen growing popularity among the populace (not only the Chinese) during the past decade. Soka Gakkai International, a Japanese Buddhist organisation, is practised by many people in Singapore, and mostly by those of Chinese descent. Tibetan Buddhism has also made slow inroads into the country in recent years.
Languages
Main article: Languages of SingaporeSingapore has four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil.
Language used most frequently at home | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Language | Percent | |||
English | 48.3% | |||
Mandarin | 29.9% | |||
Malay | 9.2% | |||
Other Sinitic languages | 8.7% | |||
Tamil | 2.5% | |||
Others | 1.4% |
English is the lingua franca and the main language used in business, government, law and education. The Constitution of Singapore and all government legislation is written in English, and interpreters are required if a language other than English is used in the Singaporean courts. Statutory corporations conduct their businesses in English, while any official documents written in a non-English official language such as Malay, Mandarin, or Tamil are typically translated into English to be accepted for use.
Malay was designated as a national language by the Singaporean government after independence from Britain in the 1960s to avoid friction with Singapore's Malay-speaking neighbours of Malaysia and Indonesia. It has a symbolic, rather than functional purpose. It is used in the national anthem Majulah Singapura, in citations of Singaporean orders and decorations and in military commands. Singaporean Malay is officially written in the Latin-based Rumi script, though some Singaporean Malays also learn the Arabic-based Jawi script. Jawi is considered an ethnic script for use on Singaporean identity cards.
Singaporeans are mostly bilingual, typically with English as their common language and their mother-tongue as a second language taught in schools, in order to preserve each individual's ethnic identity and values. According to the 2020 census, English was the language most spoken at home, used by 48.3% of the population; Mandarin was next, spoken at home by 29.9%. Nearly half a million speak other ancestral Southern varieties of Chinese, mainly Hokkien, Teochew, and Cantonese, as their home language, although the use of these is declining in favour of Mandarin or just English. Singapore Chinese characters are written using simplified Chinese characters.
Singaporean English is largely based on British English, owing to the country's status as a former crown colony. However, forms of English spoken in Singapore range from Standard Singapore English to a colloquial form known as Singlish, which is discouraged by the government as it claims it to be a substandard English creole that handicaps Singaporeans, presenting an obstacle to learning standard English and rendering the speaker incomprehensible to everyone except to another Singlish speaker. Standard Singapore English is fully understandable to all Standard English speakers, while most English-speaking people do not understand Singlish. Nevertheless, Singaporeans have a strong sense of identity and connection to Singlish, whereby the existence of Singlish is recognised as a distinctive cultural marker for many Singaporeans. As such, in recent times, the government has tolerated the diglossia of both Singlish and Standard English (only for those who are fluent in both), whilst continuously reinforcing the importance of Standard English amongst those who speak only Singlish (which is not mutually intelligible with the Standard English of other English-speaking countries).
Education
Main article: Education in SingaporeEducation for primary, secondary, and tertiary levels is mostly supported by the state. All institutions, public and private, must be registered with the Ministry of Education (MOE). English is the language of instruction in all public schools, and all subjects are taught and examined in English except for the "mother tongue" language paper. While the term "mother tongue" in general refers to the first language internationally, in Singapore's education system, it is used to refer to the second language, as English is the first language. Students who have been abroad for a while, or who struggle with their "Mother Tongue" language, are allowed to take a simpler syllabus or drop the subject.
Education takes place in three stages: primary, secondary, and pre-university education, with the primary education being compulsory. Students begin with six years of primary school, which is made up of a four-year foundation course and a two-year orientation stage. The curriculum is focused on the development of English, the mother tongue, mathematics, and science. Secondary school lasts from four to five years, and is divided between Express, Normal (Academic), and Normal (Technical) streams in each school, depending on a student's ability level. The basic coursework breakdown is the same as in the primary level, although classes are much more specialised. Pre-university education takes place at either the 21 Junior Colleges or the Millennia Institute, over a period of two and three years respectively. As alternatives to pre-university education, however, courses are offered in other post-secondary education institutions, including the 5 polytechnics and 3 ITE colleges. Singapore has six public universities, of which the National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University are among the top 20 universities in the world.
National examinations are standardised across all schools, with a test taken after each stage. After the first six years of education, students take the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE), which determines their placement at secondary school. At the end of the secondary stage, O-Level or N-Level exams are taken; at the end of the following pre-university stage, the GCE A-Level exams are taken. Some schools have a degree of freedom in their curriculum and are known as autonomous schools, for secondary education level and above.
Singapore is also an education hub, with more than 80,000 international students in 2006. 5,000 Malaysian students cross the Johor–Singapore Causeway daily to attend schools in Singapore. In 2009, 20% of all students in Singaporean universities were international students—the maximum cap allowed, a majority from ASEAN, China and India.
Singapore students have excelled in many of the world education benchmarks in maths, science and reading. In 2015, both its primary and secondary students rank first in OECD's global school performance rankings across 76 countries—described as the most comprehensive map of education standards. In 2016, Singapore students topped both the Program International Student Assessment (PISA) and the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). In the 2016 EF English Proficiency Index taken in 72 countries, Singapore placed 6th and has been the only Asian country in the top ten.
Healthcare
Main article: Healthcare in SingaporeSingapore has a generally efficient healthcare system, even though health expenditures are relatively low for developed countries. The World Health Organisation ranks Singapore's healthcare system as 6th overall in the world in its World Health Report. Singapore has had the lowest infant mortality rates in the world for the past two decades. In 2019, Singaporeans had the longest life expectancy of any country at 84.8 years. Women can expect to live an average of 87.6 years with 75.8 years in good health. The averages are lower for men. Singapore is ranked 1st on the Global Food Security Index.
As of December 2011 and January 2013, 8,800 foreigners and 5,400 Singaporeans were respectively diagnosed with HIV, but there are fewer than 10 annual deaths from HIV per 100,000 people. Adult obesity is below 10%. There is a high level of immunisation. In 2013, the Economist Intelligence Unit ranked Singapore as having the best quality of life in Asia and sixth overall in the world.
The government's healthcare system is based upon the "3M" framework. This has three components: Medifund, which provides a safety net for those not able to otherwise afford healthcare; Medisave, a compulsory national medical savings account system covering about 85% of the population; and Medishield, a government-funded health insurance program. Public hospitals in Singapore have a considerable autonomy in their management decisions, and notionally compete for patients, but remain in government ownership. A subsidy scheme exists for those on low income. In 2008, 32% of healthcare was funded by the government. Healthcare accounts for approximately 3.5% of Singapore's GDP.
Culture
Main article: Culture of SingaporeDespite its small size, Singapore has a diversity of languages, religions, and cultures. Former prime ministers of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew and Goh Chok Tong, have stated that Singapore does not fit the traditional description of a nation, calling it a society-in-transition, pointing out the fact that Singaporeans do not all speak the same language, share the same religion, or have the same customs. Singaporeans who speak English as their native language would likely lean toward Western culture (along with either Christian culture or secularism), while those who speak Chinese as their native language mostly lean toward Chinese culture, which has linkages with Chinese folk religion, Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Malay-speaking Singaporeans mostly lean toward Malay culture, which itself is closely linked to Islamic culture. Tamil-speaking Singaporeans mostly lean toward Tamil culture, which itself is mostly linked to Hindu culture. Racial and religious harmony is regarded as a crucial part of Singapore's success, and played a part in building a Singaporean identity.
When Singapore became independent from the United Kingdom in 1963, most Singaporean citizens were transient migrant labourers who had no intention of staying permanently. There was also a sizeable minority of middle-class, locally born people—known as Peranakans or Baba-Nyonya-descendants of 15th- and 16th-century Chinese immigrants. With the exception of the Peranakans who pledged their loyalties to Singapore, most of the labourers' loyalties lay with their respective homelands of Malaya, China and India. After independence, the government began a deliberate process of crafting a uniquely Singaporean identity and culture. Singapore has a reputation as a nanny state. The government also places a heavy emphasis on meritocracy, where one is judged based on one's ability.
The national flower of Singapore is the hybrid orchid, Vanda 'Miss Joaquim', named in memory of a Singapore-born Armenian woman, who crossbred the flower in her garden at Tanjong Pagar in 1893. Singapore is known as the Lion City and many national symbols such as the coat of arms and the lion head symbol make use of a lion. Major religious festivals are public holidays.
Arts
Further information: Dance in Singapore, Singaporean literature, and Music of SingaporeDuring the 1990s the National Arts Council was created to spearhead the development of performing arts, along with visual and literary art forms. The National Gallery Singapore is the nation's flagship museum with some 8,000 works from Singaporean and other Southeast Asian artists. The Singapore Art Museum focuses on contemporary art from a Southeast Asian perspective. The Red Dot Design Museum celebrates exceptional art and design of objects for everyday life, hosting more than 1,000 items from 50 countries. The lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum hosts touring exhibitions that combine art with the sciences. Other major museums include the Asian Civilisations Museum, the Peranakan Museum, and The Arts House. The Esplanade is Singapore's largest performing arts centre. In 2016 alone, it was the site of 5,900 free art and culture events.
Literature of Singapore, or "SingLit", consists of a collection of literary works by Singaporeans written chiefly in the country's four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. Singapore is increasingly regarded as having four sub-literatures instead of one. Many significant works have been translated and showcased in publications such as the literary journal Singa, published in the 1980s and 1990s with editors including Edwin Thumboo and Koh Buck Song, as well as in multilingual anthologies such as Rhythms: A Singaporean Millennial Anthology Of Poetry (2000), in which the poems were all translated three times each. A number of Singaporean writers such as Tan Swie Hian and Kuo Pao Kun have contributed work in more than one language.
Singapore has a diverse music culture that ranges from pop and rock, to folk and classical. Western classical music plays a significant role in the cultural life in Singapore, with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) instituted in 1979. Other notable western orchestras in Singapore include Singapore National Youth Orchestra and the community-based Braddell Heights Symphony Orchestra. Many orchestras and ensembles are also found in secondary schools and junior colleges. Various communities have their own distinct ethnic musical traditions: Chinese, Malays, Indians, and Eurasians. With their traditional forms of music and various modern musical styles, the fusion of different forms account for the musical diversity in the country. The nation's lively urban musical scene has made it a centre for international performances and festivals in the region. Some of Singapore's best known pop singers include Stefanie Sun, JJ Lin, Liang Wern Fook, Taufik Batisah and Dick Lee, who is famous for composing National Day theme songs, including Home.
Cuisine
Main article: Singaporean cuisineSingapore's diversity of cuisine is touted as a reason to visit the country, due to its combination of convenience, variety, quality, and price. Local food items generally relate to a particular ethnicity – Chinese, Malay and Indian; but the diversity of cuisine has increased further by the hybridisation of different styles (e.g., the Peranakan cuisine, a mix of Chinese and Malay cuisine). In hawker centres, cultural diffusion is exemplified by traditionally Malay hawker stalls also selling Tamil food. Hainanese chicken rice, based on the Hainanese dish Wenchang chicken, is considered Singapore's national dish.
The city-state has a burgeoning food scene ranging from hawker centres (open-air), food courts (air-conditioned), coffee shops (open-air with up to a dozen hawker stalls), cafes, fast food, simple kitchens, casual, celebrity and high-end restaurants. Cloud kitchens and food delivery are also on the rise, with 70% of residents ordering from delivery apps at least once a month. Many international celebrity chef restaurants are located within the integrated resorts. Religious dietary strictures exist (Muslims do not eat pork and Hindus do not eat beef), and there is also a significant group of vegetarians. The Singapore Food Festival which celebrates Singapore's cuisine is held annually in July.
Prior to the 1980s, street food was sold mainly by immigrants from China, India, and Malaysia to other immigrants seeking a familiar taste. In Singapore, street food has long been associated with hawker centres with communal seating areas. Typically, these centres have a few dozen to hundreds of food stalls, with each specialising in one or more related dishes. While street food can be found in many countries, the variety and reach of centralised hawker centres that serve heritage street food in Singapore is unique. In 2018, there were 114 hawker centres spread across the city centre and heartland housing estates. They are maintained by the National Environment Agency, which also grades each food stall for hygiene. The largest hawker centre is located on the second floor of Chinatown Complex, and contains over 200 stalls. The complex is also home to the cheapest Michelin-starred meal in the world – a plate of soya-sauce chicken rice or noodles for S$2 (US$1.50). Two street food stalls in the city are the first in the world to be awarded a Michelin star, obtaining a single star each.
Sport and recreation
Main article: Sport in SingaporeThe development of private sports and recreation clubs began in the 19th century colonial Singapore, with clubs founded during this time including the Cricket Club, the Singapore Recreation Club, the Singapore Swimming Club, and the Hollandse Club. Weightlifter Tan Howe Liang was Singapore's first Olympic medalist, winning a silver at the 1960 Rome Games. Singapore hosted the inaugural 2010 Summer Youth Olympics, in which 3,600 athletes from 204 nations competed in 26 sports.
Indoor and water sports are some of the most popular sports in Singapore. At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Joseph Schooling won Singapore's first Olympic gold medal, claiming the 100-metre butterfly in a new Olympic record time of 50.39 seconds. Singapore sailors have had success on the international stage, with their Optimist team being considered among the best in the world. Despite its size, the country has dominated swim meets in the Southeast Asia Games. Its men's water polo team won the SEA Games gold medal for the 27th time in 2017, continuing Singapore sport's longest winning streak. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Max Maeder won Singapore's first Olympic medal in sailing, achieving bronze at the Men's Formula Kite on National Day. At 17, he was also Singapore's youngest Olympic medalist.
Singapore's women's table tennis team were silver medalists at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. They became world champions in 2010 when they beat China at the World Team Table Tennis Championships in Russia, breaking China's 19-year winning streak. In 2021, Singapore's Loh Kean Yew achieved a "World Champion" status when he won a badminton gold at the 2021 BWF World Championships men's singles, which is one of the most prestigious badminton tournaments alongside the Summer Olympics badminton tournaments.
Singapore's football league, the Singapore Premier League, was launched in 1996 as the S.League and comprises eight clubs, including one foreign team. The Singapore Slingers is one of the inaugural teams in the ASEAN Basketball League, which was founded in October 2009. Kranji Racecourse is run by the Singapore Turf Club and hosts several meetings per week, including international races—notably the Singapore Airlines International Cup.
Singapore began hosting a round of the Formula One World Championship, the Singapore Grand Prix at the Marina Bay Street Circuit in 2008. It was the inaugural F1 night race, and the first F1 street race in Asia. It is considered a signature event on the F1 calendar. ONE Championship was founded in Singapore, a major Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) promotion in Asia.
Media
Main article: Media of Singapore See also: Telecommunications in SingaporeCompanies linked to the government control much of the domestic media in Singapore. MediaCorp operates most free-to-air television channels and free-to-air radio stations in Singapore. There are a total of six free-to-air TV channels offered by MediaCorp. StarHub TV and Singtel TV also offer IPTV with channels from all around the world. SPH Media Trust, a body with close links to the government, controls most of the newspaper industry in Singapore.
Singapore's media industry has sometimes been criticised for being overly regulated and lacking in freedom by human rights groups such as Freedom House. Self-censorship among journalists is said to be common. In 2023, Singapore was ranked 129 on the Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders, up from 139 the previous year. The Media Development Authority regulates Singaporean media, claiming to balance the demand for choice and protection against offensive and harmful material. Private ownership of TV satellite dishes is banned.
Internet in Singapore is provided by state-owned Singtel, partially state-owned Starhub and M1 Limited as well as some other business internet service providers (ISPs) that offer residential service plans of speeds up to 2 Gbit/s as of spring 2015. Equinix (332 participants) and the Singapore Internet Exchange (70 participants) are Internet exchange points where Internet service providers and Content delivery networks exchange Internet traffic between their networks (autonomous systems) in various locations in Singapore. In the mid-1980s to 1990s, Singaporeans could also use the locally based videotext service Singapore Teleview to communicate with one another. The phrase Intelligent Island arose in the 1990s in reference to the island nation's early adaptive relationship with the internet.
In 2016, there were an estimated 4.7 million internet users in Singapore, representing 82.5% of the population. The Singapore government does not engage in widespread censoring of the internet, but it maintains a list of one hundred websites—mostly pornographic—that it blocks from home internet access as a "symbolic statement of the Singaporean community's stand on harmful and undesirable content on the Internet". Singapore has the world's highest smartphone penetration rates, in surveys by Deloitte and the Google Consumer Barometer—at 89% and 85% of the population respectively in 2014. The overall mobile phone penetration rate is at 148 mobile phone subscribers per 100 people.
See also
Notes
- Singapore has no official distinct capital city as it is a city-state.
- In Singapore, proportions of ethnic groups publicly released are based only on the resident population, which comprises Singaporean citizens (SC) and permanent residents (PR).
- In Singapore, proportions of religious denominations publicly released are based only on the resident population, which comprises Singaporean citizens (SC) and permanent residents (PR).
- Singaporean citizen (SC) population is 3,640,000, Permanent resident (PR) population is 544,900, Non-citizen/resident population is 1,860,000.
- /ˈsɪŋ(ɡ)əpɔːr/ SING-(g)ə-por
- The breakdown of British Empire losses included 38,496 United Kingdom, 18,490 Australian, 67,340 Indian and 14,382 local volunteer troops. Total Australian casualties included 1,789 killed and 1,306 wounded.
References
Citations
- "Geographical Distribution Dashboard". Singstat. Archived from the original on 24 December 2022. Retrieved 25 November 2024.
- "Singapore". Encyclopaedia Britannica. Archived from the original on 28 August 2022. Retrieved 29 August 2019.
The city, once a distinct entity, so came to dominate the island that the Republic of Singapore essentially became a city-state.
- ^ "Population Trends 2023". Singapore Department of Statistics. Archived from the original on 6 July 2024. Retrieved 6 July 2024.
- "Environment – Latest Data". Singapore Department of Statistics. 14 August 2024. Archived from the original on 14 August 2024. Retrieved 14 August 2024.
- "Population in Brief 2024" (PDF). Singapore Department of Statistics. Archived from the original (PDF) on 25 September 2024. Retrieved 25 September 2024.
- ^ "World Economic Outlook Database, October 2024 Edition. (Singapore)". www.imf.org. International Monetary Fund. October 2024. Retrieved 17 November 2024.
- "Key Household Income Trends, 2023". singstat.gov.sg. Singapore Department of Statistics. Archived from the original on 13 July 2024. Retrieved 14 August 2024.
- "Human Development Report 2023/2024" (PDF). United Nations Development Programme. 13 March 2024. Archived (PDF) from the original on 13 March 2024. Retrieved 13 March 2024.
- "Singapore". Bartleby. Archived from the original on 11 April 2001. Retrieved 13 May 2020.
- "Singapore: History, Singapore 1994". Asian Studies @ University of Texas at Austin. Archived from the original on 23 March 2007. Retrieved 13 May 2020.
- ^ Victor R Savage; Brenda Yeoh (15 June 2013). Singapore Street Names: A Study of Toponymics. Marshall Cavendish. p. 381. ISBN 9789814484749. Archived from the original on 12 April 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2017.
- John N. Miksic (15 November 2013). Singapore and the Silk Road of the Sea, 1300–1800. NUS Press. pp. 171–182. ISBN 978-9971695743. Archived from the original on 5 March 2024. Retrieved 19 June 2020.
- Miksic 2013, pp. 151–152.
- Joshua Lee (6 December 2016). "5 other places in Asia which are also called Singapura". Mothership. Archived from the original on 6 April 2023. Retrieved 13 May 2020.
- Kheng, Cheah Boon; Ismail, Abdul Rahman Haji, eds. (1998). Sejarah Melayu The Malay Annals MS RAFFLES No. 18 Edisi Rumi Baru/New Romanised Edition. Academic Art & Printing Services Sdn. Bhd. ISBN 967-9948-13-7.
- Brown, C.C. (October 1952). "The Malay Annals translated from Raffles MS 18". Journal of the Malayan Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society. 25 (2&3): 1–276.
- ^ Turnbull, C.M. (2009). A History of Modern Singapore, 1819–2005. NUS Press. pp. 21–22. ISBN 978-9971-69-430-2. Archived from the original on 5 March 2024. Retrieved 13 January 2017.
- Abshire, Jean (2011). The History of Singapore. ABC-CLIO. p. 104. ISBN 978-0-313-37743-3. Archived from the original on 11 February 2024. Retrieved 21 November 2020.
- Blackburn, Kevin; Hack, Karl (2004). Did Singapore Have to Fall?: Churchill and the Impregnable Fortress. Routledge. p. 132. ISBN 978-0-203-40440-9. Archived from the original on 11 February 2024. Retrieved 21 November 2020.
- Goetz, Philip W. (1991). "Singapore". The New Encyclopædia Britannica (15th ed.). Chicago. p. 832. Bibcode:1991neb..book.....G. ISBN 978-0-85229-529-8.
"Singapore, known variously as the 'Lion City,' or 'Garden City,' the latter for its many parks and tree-lined streets
{{cite encyclopedia}}
: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link) - Glennie, Charlotte; Ang, Mavis; Rhys, Gillian; Aul, Vidhu; Walton, Nicholas (6 August 2015). "50 reasons Singapore is the best city in the world". CNN. Archived from the original on 7 August 2020. Retrieved 13 May 2020.
The Lion City. The Garden City. The Asian Tiger. The 'Fine' City. All venerable nicknames, and the longtime favourite is the 'Little Red Dot'
- "A little red dot in a sea of green". The Economist. London. 16 July 2015. Archived from the original on 16 October 2017. Retrieved 16 October 2017.
..with a characteristic mixture of pride and paranoia, Singapore adopted 'little red dot' as a motto
- "Editorial: The mighty red dot". The Jakarta Post. 8 September 2017. Archived from the original on 28 January 2020. Retrieved 13 May 2020.
- "Habibie truly admired the 'Little Red Dot'". Today. 20 September 2006..
- Malay Annals. Translated by Leyden, John. 1821. p. 43.
- Miksic 2013, p. 154.
- Miksic 2013, pp. 183–185.
- Dixon, Robert M.W.; Alexandra, Y. (2004). Adjective Classes: A Cross-linguistic Typology. Oxford University Press. p. 74. ISBN 0-19-920346-6.
- Matisoff, James (1990), "On Megalocomparison", Language, 66 (1): 106–120, doi:10.2307/415281, JSTOR 415281
- Enfield, N.J. (2005), "Areal Linguistics and Mainland Southeast Asia" (PDF), Annual Review of Anthropology, 34: 181–206, doi:10.1146/annurev.anthro.34.081804.120406, hdl:11858/00-001M-0000-0013-167B-C, archived (PDF) from the original on 16 August 2017, retrieved 5 August 2018
- Lavy, Paul A. (2003). "As in Heaven, So on Earth: The Politics of Visnu Siva and Harihara Images in Preangkorian Khmer Civilisation". Journal of Southeast Asian Studies. 34 (1). Academia: 21–39. doi:10.1017/S002246340300002X. ISSN 0022-4634. S2CID 154819912. Archived from the original on 12 August 2021. Retrieved 23 December 2015.
- "Results of the 1995–1996 Archaeological Field Investigations at Angkor Borei, Cambodia" (PDF). University of Hawai'i-Manoa. Archived from the original (PDF) on 23 September 2015. Retrieved 5 July 2015.
- Pierre-Yves Manguin, "From Funan to Sriwijaya: Cultural continuities and discontinuities in the Early Historical maritime states of Southeast Asia", in 25 tahun kerjasama Pusat Penelitian Arkeologi dan Ecole française d'Extrême-Orient, Jakarta, Pusat Penelitian Arkeologi / EFEO, 2002, p. 59–82.
- Miksic 2013, pp. 155–163.
- Borschberg, P. (2010). The Singapore and Melaka Straits. Violence, Security and Diplomacy in the 17th century. Singapore: NUS Press. pp. 157–158. ISBN 978-9971-69-464-7.
- "Country Studies: Singapore: History". U.S. Library of Congress. Archived from the original on 23 September 2006. Retrieved 1 May 2007.
- Leitch Lepoer, Barbara, ed. (1989). Singapore: A Country Study. Country Studies. GPO for tus/singapore/4.htm. Archived from the original on 15 October 2009. Retrieved 18 February 2010.
- Nicholl, Robert; King, Victor T.; Horton, A. V. H. (1995). "Malay sources for the history of the Sultanate of Brunei in the early nineteenth century: some letters from the reign of Sultan Muhammad Kanzul Alam (Annabel Teh Gallop)". From Buckfast to Borneo: Essays Presented to Father Robert Nicholl on the 85th Anniversary of His Birth, 27 March 1995. Hull, England: University of Hull. p. 219. ISBN 978-0-85958-836-2. OCLC 35366675. Archived from the original on 11 February 2024. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
- "Ini kupia surat kepada Raja Barunai" [This is a copy of the letter to the Raja of Brunei]. Farquhar Letterbook (Add MS 12398) (in Malay). 1842. pp. 39–40. Archived from the original on 24 April 2022. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
- Mun Cheong Yong; V. V. Bhanoji Rao (1995). Singapore-India Relations: A Primer. NUS Press. p. 3. ISBN 978-9971-69-195-0. Archived from the original on 11 February 2024. Retrieved 14 September 2019.
- Trocki, Carl A. (2009). Singapore: Wealth, Power and the Culture of Control. Routledge. p. 73. ISBN 978-1-134-50243-1. Archived from the original on 11 February 2024. Retrieved 14 September 2019.
- "Singapore – Founding and Early Years". U.S. Library of Congress. Archived from the original on 17 November 2022. Retrieved 18 July 2006.
- Ng, Jenny (7 February 1997). "1819 – The February Documents". Ministry of Defence. Archived from the original on 17 July 2017. Retrieved 18 July 2006.
- "Milestones in Singapore's Legal History". Supreme Court, Singapore. Archived from the original on 27 September 2007. Retrieved 18 July 2006.
- ^ "Founding of Modern Singapore". Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts. Archived from the original on 8 May 2009. Retrieved 13 April 2011.
- "East & South-East Asia Titles: Straits Settlements Annual Reports (Singapore, Penang, Malacca, Labuan) 1855–1941". Cambridge University Press. Archived from the original on 9 June 2012. Retrieved 31 July 2012.
- "The Malays". National Heritage Board 2011. Archived from the original on 23 February 2011. Retrieved 28 July 2011.
- Sanderson, Reginald (1907). Wright, Arnold; Cartwright, H.A. (eds.). Twentieth century impressions of British Malaya: its history, people, commerce, industries, and resources. pp. 220–221.
- "Singapore attains crown colony status – Singapore History". eresources.nlb.gov.sg. Archived from the original on 14 April 2021. Retrieved 3 April 2021.
- "First Rubber Trees are Planted in Singapore – 1877". History SG. National Library Board Singapore. Archived from the original on 14 June 2018. Retrieved 8 February 2017.
- The Indian Army in the Two World Wars. Brill Publishers. 14 October 2011. pp. 17–18. ISBN 978-90-04-21145-2. Archived from the original on 11 February 2024. Retrieved 14 September 2019.
- "1915 Singapore Mutiny". National Library Board. National Library Board Singapore. Archived from the original on 25 February 2021. Retrieved 26 August 2019.
- ^ Stille, Mark (2016). Malaya and Singapore 1941–42: The fall of Britain's empire in the East. Bloomsbury Publishing. pp. 5–6. ISBN 978-1-4728-1124-0. Archived from the original on 11 February 2024. Retrieved 14 September 2019.
- Tan, Kevin (2008). Marshall of Singapore: A Biography. Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. pp. 90–. ISBN 978-981-230-878-8.
- Hobbs, David (2017). The British Pacific Fleet: The Royal Navy's Most Powerful Strike Force. Naval Institute Press. p. 5. ISBN 978-1-61251-917-3. Archived from the original on 11 February 2024. Retrieved 14 September 2019.
- Lamb, Margaret; Tarling, Nicholas (2001). From Versailles to Pearl Harbor: The Origins of the Second World War in Europe and Asia. Macmillan International Higher Education. p. 39. ISBN 978-1-4039-3772-8. Archived from the original on 18 August 2020.
- Tan, Kevin (2008). Marshall of Singapore: A Biography. Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. ISBN 978-981-230-878-8.
- "On This Day – 15 February 1942: Singapore forced to surrender". BBC News. 15 February 1942. Archived from the original on 19 May 2019. Retrieved 1 May 2007.
- ^ Wigmore 1957, p. 382.
- "Battle of Singapore". World History Group. Archived from the original on 12 May 2015. Retrieved 8 May 2015.
- Legg 1965, p. 248.
- Ooi, Teresa (17 January 1995). "1,000 Aussie victims of WWII join suit against Japan". The Straits Times. Singapore.
- "South West Pacific War: Australia's Fine Record". The Straits Times. Singapore. 12 September 1946. Archived from the original on 20 December 2019. Retrieved 22 October 2019.
- Toland 1970, p. 277.
- Zaccheus, Melody (21 January 2017). "Japanese Occupation newspaper in library portal". The Straits Times. Singapore. Archived from the original on 19 August 2022. Retrieved 22 October 2019.
- Leitch Lepoer, Barbara (1989). "Singapore, Shonan: Light of the South". Library of Congress Country Studies. Washington, DC: Government Printing Office. Archived from the original on 29 June 2017. Retrieved 29 January 2011.
- ^ Bose 2010, pp. 18–20. sfn error: no target: CITEREFBose2010 (help)
- ^ "The real Japanese surrender" (PDF). The Sunday Times. Singapore. 4 September 2005. Archived from the original (PDF) on 19 January 2008. Retrieved 22 October 2019.
- Smith 2006, p. 556–557.
- "Yamashita Hanged". Malaya Tribune. Singapore. 23 February 1946. Archived from the original on 22 October 2019. Retrieved 22 October 2019.
- ^ "Singapore – Aftermath of War". U.S. Library of Congress. Archived from the original on 14 May 2011. Retrieved 16 May 2020.
- "Towards Self-government". Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts, Singapore. Archived from the original on 13 July 2006. Retrieved 18 June 2006.
- "Communism". Thinkquest. Archived from the original on 9 April 2000. Retrieved 29 January 2012.
- Low, James (2004). "Kept in Position: The Labour Front-Alliance Government of Chief Minister David Marshall in Singapore, April 1955 – June 1956". Journal of Southeast Asian Studies. 35 (1): 41–64. doi:10.1017/S0022463404000037. ISSN 0022-4634. JSTOR 20072556. S2CID 154326049. Archived from the original on 19 April 2021. Retrieved 20 February 2021.
- ^ "Country studies: Singapore: Road to Independence". U.S. Library of Congress. Archived from the original on 4 July 2014. Retrieved 16 May 2020.
- "Headliners; Retiring, Semi". The New York Times. 2 December 1990. Archived from the original on 18 March 2009. Retrieved 27 December 2008.
- "The Singapore Legal System". Singapore Academy of Law. Archived from the original on 3 June 2011. Retrieved 26 June 2011.
- Lee, T. H (1996). The Open United Front: The Communist Struggle in Singapore, 1954–1966. Singapore: South Seas Society.
- Bloodworth, D (1986). The Tiger and the Trojan Horse. Singapore: Times Books International.
- ^ "MCA: Wipe out extremists". Singapore Standard. 18 February 1959.
- "Big 'Unity' Plan – Tengku on closer ties with S'pore, Borneo and Brunei". The Straits Times. Singapore Press Holdings. 28 May 1961. p. 1. Archived from the original on 9 March 2022. Retrieved 9 March 2022.
- "Appeal To Singapore". The Straits Times. Singapore. 28 March 1962. p. 10. Archived from the original on 19 March 2018. Retrieved 19 August 2017.
- "Yes – What a win for Premier Lee". The Straits Times. Singapore Press Holdings. 2 September 1962. p. 1. Archived from the original on 9 March 2022. Retrieved 9 March 2022.
- "Merger "Yes"". The Straits Times. Singapore Press Holdings. 3 September 1962. p. 1. Archived from the original on 9 March 2022. Retrieved 9 March 2022.
- Abisheganaden, Felix (16 September 1963). "Hail Malaysia!". The Straits Times. Singapore Press Holdings. p. 1. Archived from the original on 9 March 2022. Retrieved 9 March 2022.
- "Singapore becomes part of Malaysia". HistorySG. Archived from the original on 7 February 2017. Retrieved 6 February 2017.
- James, Harold; Sheil-Small, Denis (1971). The Undeclared War: The Story of the Indonesian Confrontation 1962–1966. Totowa: Rowman and Littlefield. ISBN 978-0-87471-074-8.Mackie, J.A.C. (1974). Konfrontasi: The Indonesia-Malaysia Dispute 1963–1966. Kuala Lumpur: Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-638247-0.
- "Record of the Wreckers". The Straits Times. Singapore. 16 May 1965. Archived from the original on 19 August 2017. Retrieved 19 August 2017.
- "Mac Donald House blast: Two for trial". The Straits Times. Singapore. 6 April 1965. Archived from the original on 19 August 2017. Retrieved 19 August 2017.
- Tan Lay Yuan. "MacDonald House bomb explosion". Singapore Infopedia. National Library Board. Archived from the original on 15 December 2011.
- "Mac Donald House suffered $250,000 bomb damage". The Straits Times. Singapore. 9 October 1965. Archived from the original on 19 August 2017. Retrieved 19 August 2017.
- ^ "Road to Independence". AsiaOne. 1998. Archived from the original on 13 October 2013.
- Lau, A (2000). A moment of anguish: Singapore in Malaysia and the politics of disengagement. Singapore: Times Academic Press.
- ^ Lim, Edmund (22 December 2015). "Secret documents reveal extent of negotiations for Separation". The Straits Times. Archived from the original on 20 September 2021. Retrieved 15 August 2022.
- Leitch Lepoer, Barbara (1989). "Singapore as Part of Malaysia". Library of Congress Country Studies. Washington, DC: Government Printing Office. Archived from the original on 29 June 2017. Retrieved 29 January 2011.
- "A Summary of Malaysia-Singapore History". europe-solidaire. Archived from the original on 29 May 2012. Retrieved 29 January 2012.
- "Singapore separates from Malaysia and becomes independent – Singapore History". National Library Board. Archived from the original on 11 November 2020. Retrieved 12 May 2017.
Negotiations were, however, done in complete secrecy... (Tunku moved) a bill to amend the constitution that would provide for Singapore's departure from the Federation. Razak was also waiting for the fully signed separation agreement from Singapore to allay possible suggestions that Singapore was expelled from Malaysia.
- "Episode 0: Trailer". Archived from the original on 20 September 2021. Retrieved 14 August 2022.
- "Road to Independence". Headlines, Lifelines, by AsiaOne. 1998. Archived from the original on 13 October 2013.
- Abisheganaden, Felix (10 August 1965). "Singapore is out". The Straits Times. Singapore Press Holdings. Archived from the original on 21 February 2022. Retrieved 21 February 2022.
- "Past and present leaders of Singapore". Infopedia. National Libraries Board. Archived from the original on 5 May 2020. Retrieved 28 May 2020.
- "Yusof to be the first President". The Straits Times. Singapore. 1 February 1960. Archived from the original on 7 August 2020. Retrieved 28 May 2020 – via National Libraries Board.
- Bangkok Declaration – via Wikisource.
- Sandhu, Kernial Singh; Wheatley, Paul (1989). Management of Success: The Moulding of Modern Singapore. Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. p. 107. ISBN 978-981-3035-42-3.
- Terry McCarthy, "Lee Kuan Yew." Time 154: 7–8 (1999). online
- ^ "Lee Kuan Yew: Our chief diplomat to the world". The Straits Times. Singapore. 25 March 2015. Archived from the original on 26 October 2015. Retrieved 8 November 2015.
- "History of Changi Airport". Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore. Archived from the original on 29 June 2006.
- "Lunch Dialogue on 'Singapore as a Transport Hub'". Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. Archived from the original on 17 November 2018. Retrieved 17 November 2018.
- Lam, Yin Yin (26 January 2017). "Three factors that have made Singapore a global logistics hub". The World Bank Blogs. Archived from the original on 17 November 2018. Retrieved 17 November 2018.
- "Singapore elections". BBC News. 5 May 2006. Archived from the original on 15 January 2009. Retrieved 28 July 2017.
- Parliamentary Elections Act (Cap. 218)
- Ho Khai Leong (2003). Shared Responsibilities, Unshared Power: The Politics of Policy-Making in Singapore. Eastern Univ Pr. ISBN 978-981-210-218-8
- "Presidential Elections". Elections Department Singapore. 18 April 2006. Archived from the original on 27 August 2008.
- Encyclopedia of Singapore. Singapore: Tailsman Publishing. 2006. p. 82. ISBN 978-981-05-5667-9. Archived from the original on 7 July 2017. Retrieved 19 August 2017.
- Yeoh, En-Lai (9 April 2003). "Singapore Woman Linked to 100 SARS Cases". Associated Press.
- ^ "Goh Chok Tong". National Library Board. Archived from the original on 29 July 2023. Retrieved 6 February 2017.
- "Country profile: Singapore". BBC News. 15 July 2009. Archived from the original on 29 December 2008. Retrieved 22 April 2010.
- hermesauto (28 August 2015). "GE2015: A look back at the last 5 general elections from 1991 to 2011". The Straits Times. Archived from the original on 7 October 2018. Retrieved 7 October 2018.
- Lee, U-Wen. "PAP racks up landslide win, takes 83 out of 89 seats". Business Times (Singapore). Archived from the original on 13 September 2015. Retrieved 13 September 2015.
- Heng, Janice (12 September 2015). "For PAP, the numbers hark back to 2001 polls showing". The Straits Times. Singapore. Archived from the original on 12 September 2015.
- "History of general elections in Singapore". National Library Board. Archived from the original on 4 February 2020. Retrieved 4 February 2020.
- ^ "Why so many Singaporeans voted for the opposition". The Economist. 18 July 2020. Archived from the original on 20 July 2020. Retrieved 20 July 2020.
- "Singapore to swear in Lawrence Wong as new prime minister". Yahoo! News Singapore. Agence France-Presse. 14 May 2024. Archived from the original on 15 May 2024. Retrieved 15 May 2024.
- ^ "PMO | the Government". 8 July 2023. Archived from the original on 4 August 2023. Retrieved 27 August 2023.
- Morgan, Grace, ed. (2016). A Guide to the Singapore Constitution. Singapore Management University. pp. 33–36. Archived from the original on 20 December 2019. Retrieved 28 October 2019.
- "Our Legal System". Archived from the original on 2 September 2023. Retrieved 2 September 2023.
- "PMO | the Cabinet". 23 December 2022. Archived from the original on 25 April 2006. Retrieved 27 August 2023.
- "Home | Parliament of Singapore". Archived from the original on 27 October 2019. Retrieved 28 October 2019.
- "The President". Singapore Government. 19 December 2010. Archived from the original on 11 June 2011. Retrieved 26 June 2011.
- Morgan, Grace, ed. (2016). A Guide to the Singapore Constitution. Singapore Management University. p. 27. Archived from the original on 20 December 2019. Retrieved 28 October 2019.
- "Role and structure of the Supreme Court – structure". Archived from the original on 2 April 2023. Retrieved 2 September 2023.
- Morgan, Grace, ed. (2016). A Guide to the Singapore Constitution. Singapore Management University. pp. 63–67. Archived from the original on 20 December 2019. Retrieved 28 October 2019.
- Tan, Kevin Y.L. (2019). "Legislating Dominance: Parliament and the Making of Singapore's Governance Model". In Rahim, Lily Zubaidah; Barr, Michael D. (eds.). The Limits of Authoritarian Governance in Singapore's Developmental State. Palgrave Macmillan. p. 264. doi:10.1007/978-981-13-1556-5. ISBN 978-981-13-1555-8. S2CID 239112493.
- ^ "What are the Qualifications Required to Run for President in Singapore?". SingaporeLegalAdvice.com. Archived from the original on 11 February 2024. Retrieved 26 April 2022.
- "Constitution of the Republic of Singapore – article 19". sso.agc.gov.sg. Archived from the original on 28 May 2023. Retrieved 16 June 2021.
- "Elected Presidency: Higher eligibility criteria accepted, but Govt says no to longer qualifying terms". TODAY. Archived from the original on 26 April 2022. Retrieved 26 April 2022.
- "Presidential Candidates: Qualifying Criteria". Singapore: Elections Department Singapore. 2024. Archived from the original on 26 July 2024. Retrieved 20 November 2024.
- "Constitution of the Republic of Singapore – article 19B". sso.agc.gov.sg. Archived from the original on 28 May 2023. Retrieved 16 June 2021.
- "Halimah Yacob named Singapore's first female president". Al Jazeera. 13 September 2017. Archived from the original on 2 May 2019. Retrieved 13 September 2017.
- "Only one Singaporean is fit to be president". The Economist. London. 16 September 2017. Archived from the original on 6 May 2021. Retrieved 16 June 2021.
- "Members of Parliament". Parliament of Singapore. Archived from the original on 16 December 2019. Retrieved 9 October 2019.
- Yong, Ng Tze (20 October 2008). "MP, I want help with..." asiaone. Archived from the original on 27 May 2011. Retrieved 20 October 2008.
- Tan, Kenneth Paul (2007). "Singapore's National Day Rally speech: A site of ideological negotiation". Journal of Contemporary Asia. 37 (3): 292–308. doi:10.1080/00472330701408635. ISSN 0047-2336. S2CID 145405958. Archived from the original on 22 October 2023. Retrieved 16 May 2023 – via tandfonline.
- Kuah-Pearce, Khun Eng (2011). Rebuilding the Ancestral Village: Singaporeans in China. Hong Kong University Press. p. 37. ISBN 978-988-8053-66-7.
- Kerr, Roger (9 December 1999). "Optimism For the New Millennium". nzbr. Archived from the original on 7 March 2006. Retrieved 7 March 2006.
- ^ "Freedom in the World 2010 – Singapore". Freedom House. Archived from the original on 7 January 2012. Retrieved 12 June 2011.
- Tan, Netina; Preece, Cassandra (2024). "Democratic backsliding in illiberal Singapore". Asian Journal of Comparative Politics. 9 (1): 25–49. doi:10.1177/20578911221141090.
- Hussin Mutalib, Illiberal Democracy and the Future of Opposition in Singapore, Third World Quarterly Vol. 21, No. 2 (Apr. 2000), pp. 313-342 (30 pages), Published By: Taylor & Francis, Ltd.
- Verweij, Marco, and Riccardo Pelizzo. "Singapore: Does Authoritarianism Pay?". Journal of Democracy, vol. 20, no. 2, Apr. 2009, pp. 18–32.
- Huat, Chua Beng, 'Liberal Order's Illiberal Prodigy: Singapore as a Non-Liberal Electoral Democratic State', in Harry Verhoeven, and Anatol Lieven (eds), Beyond Liberal Order: States, Societies and Markets in the Global Indian Ocean (2022; online edn, Oxford Academic, 19 May 2022), https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780197647950.003.0003. Retrieved 20 April 2024.
- Denny Roy, Singapore, China, and the "Soft Authoritarian" Challenge, Asian Survey, Vol. 34, No. 3 (Mar. 1994), pp. 231–242 (12 pages), Published By: University of California Press (JSTOR)
- ^ Gordon Paul Means, Soft Authoritarianism in Malaysia and Singapore, Journal of Democracy, Johns Hopkins University Press, Volume 7, Number 4, October 1996, pp. 103–117
- von Mirbach, Johan (3 May 2015). "The invisible scars made by strikes of the cane". dw.com. Bonn: Deutsche Welle. Archived from the original on 20 April 2024. Retrieved 20 April 2024.
- Vasagar, Jeevan (21 March 2022). "The Subtle Authoritarianism of Southeast Asia's Wealthiest City-State". Literary Hub. Archived from the original on 19 April 2024. Retrieved 20 April 2024.
- ^ Kamaludeen Mohamed Nasir &Bryan S. Turner, Governing as gardening: reflections on soft authoritarianism in Singapore, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, USA and the University of Western Sydney, Australia, Pages 339–352 | Received 24 June 2011
- Kent, Ann (2008), Avonius, Leena; Kingsbury, Damien (eds.), "Chinese Values and Human Rights", Human Rights in Asia: A Reassessment of the Asian Values Debate, New York: Palgrave Macmillan US, pp. 83–97, doi:10.1057/9780230615496_5, ISBN 978-0-230-61549-6, retrieved 18 June 2021
- Huat, Chua Beng, 'Liberal Order's Illiberal Prodigy: Singapore as a Non-Liberal Electoral Democratic State', in Harry Verhoeven, and Anatol Lieven (eds), Beyond Liberal Order: States, Societies and Markets in the Global Indian Ocean (2022; online edn, Oxford Academic, 19 May 2022), https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780197647950.003.0003. Retrieved 20 April 2024.
- Peers, Douglas M. (2013). Chan, Wing-Cheong; Wright, Barry; Yeo, Stanley (eds.). "Codification, Macaulay and the Indian Penal Code: The Legacies and Modern Challenges of Criminal Law Reform". Victorian Studies. 55 (4): 749–751. doi:10.2979/victorianstudies.55.4.749. S2CID 144820395.
- "The Singapore Legal System". Singapore Academy of Law. 25 September 2007. Archived from the original on 23 January 2011. Retrieved 10 June 2011.
- "Judicial caning in Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei". World Corporal Punishment Research. September 2012. Archived from the original on 15 January 2015. Retrieved 12 December 2015.
- Kuntz, Tom (26 June 1994). "Ideas & Trends; Beyond Singapore: Corporal Punishment, A to Z". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 1 July 2017. Retrieved 18 February 2017.
- "Singapore country specific information". U.S. Department of State. 19 March 2010. Archived from the original on 30 December 2004.
- "Constitution of the Republic of Singapore". Singapore Statutes Online. Archived from the original on 28 May 2023. Retrieved 28 May 2020.
- "The government of Singapore says it welcomes criticism, but its critics still suffer". The Economist. London. 9 March 2017. Archived from the original on 13 October 2017. Retrieved 16 April 2019.
- "Singapore boasts of being a model of economic development but it is an example of what not to be in regard to freedom of the press, which is almost non-existent". Reporters Without Borders. 16 June 2023. Archived from the original on 11 November 2019. Retrieved 4 October 2023.
- "Singapore: Freedom in the World 2021 Country Report". Freedom House. Archived from the original on 28 February 2022. Retrieved 17 April 2022.
- "Singapore". Freedom House. 2013. Archived from the original on 3 May 2014. Retrieved 28 May 2014.
- "Democracy Index 2018: Me Too?". London: The Economist Intelligence Unit. 8 January 2019. Archived from the original on 2 February 2019. Retrieved 13 January 2019.
- "Singapore to toughen protest laws ahead of APEC meet". Reuters. 17 January 2009. Archived from the original on 27 November 2020. Retrieved 31 July 2012.
- "Corruption Perceptions Index 2018". Transparency International. 29 January 2019. Archived from the original on 27 April 2019. Retrieved 27 April 2019.
- Ortmann, Stephan; Thompson, Mark R (January 2016). "China and the 'Singapore Model'" (PDF). Journal of Democracy. 27 (1): 39–48. doi:10.1353/jod.2016.0004. S2CID 155860923. Archived from the original (PDF) on 4 November 2016. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
- Huff, W G (1995). "What is the Singapore model of economic development?". Cambridge Journal of Economics. 19: 735–759. Archived from the original on 14 February 2011. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
- ^ Lee Kuan Yew (2012). From third world to first: The Singapore story, 1965–2000. Marshall Cavendish International Asia.
- "2021 Corruption Perceptions Index – Explore the results". Transparency.org. 25 January 2022. Archived from the original on 19 June 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- "Rule of Law Index" (PDF). World Justice Project. 2021. Archived (PDF) from the original on 8 August 2022. Retrieved 28 July 2022.
- ^ "Singapore country brief". Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Archived from the original on 8 March 2020. Retrieved 15 November 2016.
- "Singapore Missions Overseas". Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Archived from the original on 15 March 2018. Retrieved 27 January 2014.
- "Overview". ASEAN. 2009. Archived from the original on 9 January 2008. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
- "APEC is established". National Library Board. Archived from the original on 4 July 2018. Retrieved 4 July 2018.
- 50 Years of Singapore and the United Nations. World Scientific. 2015. ISBN 978-981-4713-03-0.access-date=7 March 2024
- "NAM Member States". The Non-Aligned Movement. 23 January 2002. Archived from the original on 9 December 2010. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
- "Member States". Commonwealth Secretariat. Archived from the original on 25 December 2018. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
- "Histories and Milestones". MFA. Archived from the original on 13 August 2021. Retrieved 5 October 2019.
- "G20". Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Archived from the original on 17 September 2018. Retrieved 26 March 2017.
- "PECC – PECC :: The Pacific Economic Cooperation Council – International Secretariat". pecc.org. Archived from the original on 17 February 2022. Retrieved 19 September 2018.
- ^ "Australia – New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA)". New Zealand Government. 4 December 2008. Archived from the original on 2 August 2009. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
- ^ Gifford, Rob (18 September 1998). "Malaysia and Singapore: A rocky relationship". BBC News. Archived from the original on 12 May 2011. Retrieved 10 April 2011.
- ^ "World Factbook – Field Listing: International disputes". Central Intelligence Agency. Archived from the original on 14 May 2011. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
- Lloyd Parry, Richard (17 March 2007). "Singapore accused of land grab as islands disappear by boatload". The Times. London. Archived from the original on 10 May 2011. Retrieved 10 April 2011.
- "Court awards islet to Singapore". BBC News. 23 May 2008. Archived from the original on 26 May 2008. Retrieved 6 September 2017.
- Reading Room. "Currency Interchangeability Agreement – Brunei Notes and Coins". Archived from the original on 28 June 2017. Retrieved 14 October 2017.
- "Brunei Foreign and Trade Relations: ASEAN". New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. 14 January 2009. Archived from the original on 8 September 2009. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
- "Singapore Business Federation aims for over 100 local firms to take part in first China International Import Expo". The Straits Times. 22 February 2018. Archived from the original on 24 February 2018. Retrieved 24 February 2018.
- "Singapore, China leaders laud deep, growing ties". Today. Singapore. Archived from the original on 25 February 2018. Retrieved 24 February 2018.
- "Singapore and China's common interest 'greater than any occasional difference of views': DPM Teo". Singapore: Channel NewsAsia. 24 May 2017. Archived from the original on 25 February 2018. Retrieved 24 February 2018.
- "Singapore a 'strong supporter' of China's peaceful development". The Straits Times. Singapore. 25 May 2017. Archived from the original on 24 February 2018. Retrieved 24 February 2018.
- Zhang Xuegang (20 November 2007). "Opening 'window of opportunity' for China-Singapore cooperation". People's Daily. Beijing. Archived from the original on 6 August 2013. Retrieved 31 July 2012.
- "Asean to step up terror fight, hold naval drill with China". The Straits Times. 7 February 2018. Archived from the original on 24 February 2018. Retrieved 24 February 2018.
- Lee, Yen Nee (8 June 2018). "White House explains why it chose Singapore to host summit with North Korea". CNBC. Archived from the original on 12 June 2018. Retrieved 12 June 2018.
- "President Trump meets Kim Jong Un: Live updates". CNN. 11 June 2018. Archived from the original on 12 June 2018. Retrieved 12 June 2018.
- "Trump and Kim make history with a handshake". BBC News. 12 June 2018. Archived from the original on 12 June 2018. Retrieved 12 June 2018.
- Yin, Chun-chieh; Lee, Mei-yu (4 November 2015). "Ma, Xi to split dinner bill in Singapore". Central News Agency. Archived from the original on 7 November 2015. Retrieved 7 November 2015.
- Lee, Shu-hua; Chang, S.C. "President Ma to meet China's Xi in Singapore Saturday (update)". Central News Agency. Archived from the original on 7 November 2015. Retrieved 4 November 2015.
- Perlez, Jane; Ramzy, Austin (4 November 2015). "China, Taiwan and a Meeting After 66 Years". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 7 November 2017. Retrieved 1 November 2017.
- Moss, Trefor (18 January 2010). "Buying an advantage". Jane's Defence Review. London. Archived from the original on 23 January 2010.
- "SAF remains final guarantor of Singapore's independence". Singapore: Channel NewsAsia. 1 July 2007. Archived from the original on 16 May 2011. Retrieved 19 February 2011.
- ^ "Lunch Talk on "Defending Singapore: Strategies for a Small State" by Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean" (Press release). Ministry of Defence. 21 April 2005. Archived from the original on 24 October 2007. Retrieved 19 February 2011.
- "International Comparisons of Defence Expenditure and Military Personnel". The Military Balance. 124 (1): 542–547. 2024. doi:10.1080/04597222.2024.2298600. ISSN 0459-7222. Archived from the original on 15 March 2024. Retrieved 21 October 2024.
- ^ Barzilai, Amnon (July 2004). "A Deep, Dark, Secret Love Affair". Haaretz. Archived from the original on 3 May 2017. Retrieved 19 February 2011 – via University of Wisconsin.
- Omar, Marsita; Chan Fook Weng (31 December 2007). "British withdrawal from Singapore". National Library Board. Archived from the original on 21 June 2012. Retrieved 24 August 2012.
- "Israel alarm at UN force members". BBC News. 18 August 2006. Archived from the original on 10 July 2017. Retrieved 12 October 2011.
- Rosenberg, Matt. "Diplomatic and Foreign Relations of Israel". About.com. Archived from the original on 15 January 2012. Retrieved 12 October 2011.
- "Malaysian FA apologises to Benayoun over racist abuse". BBC News. 29 July 2011. Archived from the original on 22 September 2011. Retrieved 12 October 2011.
- "Jewish Virtual History Tour: Singapore". Jewish Virtual Library. n.d. Archived from the original on 21 October 2011. Retrieved 13 October 2011.
- "The Israeli Arsenal Deployed Against Gaza During Operation Cast Lead" (PDF). Institute of Palestine Studies. p. 186. Archived from the original (PDF) on 28 September 2011. Retrieved 10 July 2012.
- "Speech by Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen" (Press release). Ministry of Defence. 18 February 2008. Archived from the original on 6 July 2017. Retrieved 19 February 2011.
- "PSC – FAQs". ifaq.gov.sg. Archived from the original on 11 August 2018. Retrieved 11 August 2018.
- Deferment of National Service for Medical Studies. Singapore Parliament. 20 October 2011. pp. 341–345. Archived from the original on 12 August 2022. Retrieved 6 July 2022.
- "Singapore – Recruitment and Training of Personnel". Country-data.com. December 1989. Archived from the original on 30 September 2007. Retrieved 19 February 2011.
- "RAAF Base Pearce". Royal Australian Air Force. 2011. Archived from the original on 23 June 2012. Retrieved 12 October 2011.
- "Opening Ceremony of the RSAF Helicopter Detachment in Oakey, Australia" (Press release). Ministry of Defence. 20 August 1999. Archived from the original on 13 March 2006. Retrieved 5 July 2013.
- "Beyond Limits – Jet Training in France". Ministry of Defence. 2011. Archived from the original on 25 June 2007. Retrieved 12 October 2011.
- Reif, Jasmine (23 November 2009). "Singapore celebrates Peace Carvin V partnership with U.S. Air Force". U.S. Air Combat Command. Archived from the original on 14 November 2012. Retrieved 5 July 2013.
- Chua Chin Hon (13 July 2010). "PM gets feel of RSAF's new jet at US base". The Straits Times. Singapore. Archived from the original on 5 July 2013. Retrieved 5 July 2013.
- Yong, Charissa (7 December 2019). "Singapore and United States sign pact to set up RSAF fighter training detachment in Guam". The Straits Times. Singapore. Archived from the original on 14 February 2021. Retrieved 18 February 2021.
- "Singapore to send 192 military personnel to Iraq". Singapore Window. Agence France-Presse. 7 October 2003. Archived from the original on 6 September 2008. Retrieved 19 February 2011.
- "75 SAF soldiers honoured for contributions in fight against ISIS". The Straits Times. Singapore. 9 October 2017. Archived from the original on 6 July 2018. Retrieved 17 August 2018.
- "SAF to provide medical aid, set up dental clinic in Afghanistan". Singapore: Channel NewsAsia. 16 May 2007. Archived from the original on 8 December 2008. Retrieved 19 February 2011.
- "Official Visit by Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, 23 to 27 July" (Press release). Singapore: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore. 24 July 2023. Archived from the original on 3 December 2023. Retrieved 20 November 2024.
- Wiharta, Sharon; Ahmad, Hassan; Halne, Jean-Yves; Löfgren, Josefina; Randall, Tim (2008). "Case study: Indian Ocean tsunami, Aceh province, Indonesia, 2004". The Effectiveness of Foreign Military Assets in Natural Disaster Response (PDF) (Report). Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. pp. 87–99. ISBN 978-91-85114-57-3. Retrieved 20 November 2024.
- Chow, Jermyn (17 March 2014). "Singapore sends 151 servicemen to join anti-piracy patrols in Gulf of Aden". The Straits Times. Singapore. Archived from the original on 10 July 2018. Retrieved 5 December 2020.
- "Katrina Relief Operations". Ministry of Defence. 2011. Archived from the original on 25 October 2005. Retrieved 12 October 2011.
- "RSAF C-130 arrives in Cebu to assist relief efforts". Today. Singapore. 14 November 2013. Archived from the original on 14 April 2021. Retrieved 5 December 2020.
- "2024 Global Peace Index" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 19 August 2024. Retrieved 11 August 2024.
- "Singapore: Imminent unlawful execution for drug trafficking must be halted". Amnesty International. 20 November 2024. Retrieved 20 November 2024.
- Newton, Robbie (9 October 2024). "Singapore Moves Further Out of Step on Death Penalty". Human Rights Watch. Archived from the original on 9 October 2024. Retrieved 20 November 2024.
- "No doubts that death penalty is the right policy for drug trafficking: Shanmugam". CNA. 30 June 2022. Archived from the original on 30 June 2022. Retrieved 30 June 2022.
- "Singapore: The death penalty – A hidden toll of executions". Amnesty International. 2003. Archived from the original on 13 January 2012. Retrieved 1 May 2011.
- "The Singapore Government's Response To Amnesty International's Report 'Singapore – The Death Penalty: A Hidden Toll Of Executions'" (Press release). Ministry of Home Affairs. 30 January 2004. Archived from the original on 14 November 2007. Retrieved 22 April 2010.
- Wong, Jonathan (2 October 2018). "Government has not curbed public prosecutor's discretion for Section 377A: A-G Lucien Wong". The Straits Times. Singapore. Archived from the original on 4 October 2018. Retrieved 12 July 2021.
- Lum, Selina (28 February 2022). "Court of Appeal rules Section 377A stays but cannot be used to prosecute men for having gay sex". The Straits Times. Singapore. Archived from the original on 30 June 2022. Retrieved 30 June 2022.
- Wong, Jonathan (2 October 2018). "Government has not curbed public prosecutor's discretion for Section 377A: A-G Lucien Wong". The Straits Times. Archived from the original on 4 October 2018. Retrieved 16 April 2019.
- "Singapore to decriminalize gay sex, but will limit change". Associated Press. 21 August 2022. Archived from the original on 21 August 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2022.
- "377A: Singapore to end ban on gay sex". BBC News. 21 August 2022. Archived from the original on 21 August 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2022.
- Han, Goh Yan (3 January 2023). "S377A officially repealed after President Halimah gives assent to Bill". The Straits Times. ISSN 0585-3923. Archived from the original on 25 July 2023. Retrieved 27 January 2024.
- "Views of Homosexuality Around the World". Pew Research Center's Global Attitudes Project. 25 June 2020. Archived from the original on 1 July 2022. Retrieved 12 July 2021.
- "Greater public acceptance of gay sex and marriage: Survey". The Straits Times. Singapore. 3 May 2019. Archived from the original on 5 June 2019. Retrieved 12 July 2021.
- Yuen-C, Tham (2 May 2019). "Singapore society still largely conservative but becoming more liberal on gay rights: IPS survey". The Straits Times. Singapore. Archived from the original on 5 June 2019. Retrieved 12 July 2021.
- Shiying, Wong (30 November 2021). "Six given police warnings for involvement in protest outside MOE headquarters". The Straits Times. Singapore. Archived from the original on 28 June 2022. Retrieved 28 June 2022.
- "How a 14-year-old girl was trafficked to Singapore and locked up". Asia One. 2017. Archived from the original on 12 April 2020. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- "'She had lost all reason to live': Undoing the horrors of being trafficked to Singapore and seeking justice". cna. 15 February 2020. Archived from the original on 12 April 2020. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- "Sex trafficking in Singapore: How changes to the law may protect women duped into prostitution". CNA. 10 November 2019. Archived from the original on 12 April 2020. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- Baten, Jörg (2016). A History of the Global Economy. From 1500 to the Present. Cambridge University Press. p. 292. ISBN 978-1-107-50718-0.
- Li, Dickson (1 February 2010). "Singapore is most open economy: Report". Asiaone. Singapore. Archived from the original on 7 February 2010. Retrieved 10 May 2011.
- "Singapore ranked 7th in the world for innovation". The Straits Times. Singapore. 5 March 2010. Archived from the original on 17 January 2013. Retrieved 23 August 2010.
- "Singapore jumps to top of Global Dynamism Index". The Straits Times. Singapore. 29 October 2015. Archived from the original on 7 August 2020. Retrieved 25 November 2015.
- "Singapore top paradise for business: World Bank". AsiaOne. Singapore. Agence France-Presse. 26 September 2007. Archived from the original on 7 July 2009. Retrieved 22 April 2010.
For the second year running, Singapore tops the aggregate rankings on the ease of doing business in 2006 to 2007.
- "The AAA-rated club: which countries still make the grade?". The Guardian. London. 15 October 2014. Archived from the original on 12 June 2018. Retrieved 13 December 2016.
- Ogg, Jon C. (8 August 2011). "Remaining countries with AAA credit ratings". NBC News. Archived from the original on 10 December 2019. Retrieved 12 October 2011.
- "CPIB Corruption Statistics 2015" (PDF). World Bank. 2 April 2015. Archived from the original (PDF) on 22 March 2016.
- "Singapore drops one place to No. 4 in global competitiveness ranking". Straits Times. 22 June 2023. Archived from the original on 30 June 2023. Retrieved 30 June 2023.
- "World Competitiveness Booklet". imd.cld.bz. International Institute for Management Development. 2023. Archived from the original on 30 June 2023. Retrieved 1 July 2023.
- "Report for Selected Countries and Subjects". IMF. Archived from the original on 9 December 2019. Retrieved 7 October 2019.
- "Report for Selected Countries and Subjects". IMF. Archived from the original on 9 December 2019. Retrieved 7 October 2019.
- "44 Percent of Workforce Are Non-Citizens" (our estimate)". Your Salary in Singapore. 15 March 2010. Archived from the original on 21 February 2016.
- Seung-yoon Lee (9 April 2014). "Ha-Joon Chang: Economics Is A Political Argument". HuffPost. Archived from the original on 25 July 2014. Retrieved 18 July 2014.
- "Singapore remains top Asian city for meetings". The Straits Times. Singapore. 9 September 2015. Archived from the original on 9 August 2018. Retrieved 9 August 2018.
- Low Siang Kok (2002). "Chapter 6: Singapore Electronic Legal Tender (SELT) – A Proposed Concept" (PDF). The Future of Money. Paris: Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. p. 147. ISBN 978-92-64-19672-8. Archived (PDF) from the original on 16 February 2008. Retrieved 28 December 2007.
- "The Currency History of Singapore" (Press release). Monetary Authority of Singapore. 9 April 2007. Archived from the original on 2 February 2010. Retrieved 22 April 2010.
- "This Central Bank Doesn't Set Interest Rates". Bloomberg. 13 April 2015. Archived from the original on 19 September 2016. Retrieved 11 March 2017.
- "Official Foreign Reserves". mas.gov.sg. Archived from the original on 19 November 2020. Retrieved 28 August 2019.
- "Statistics Singapore -IMF SDDS – Economic and Financial". Singstat.gov.sg. Archived from the original on 9 October 2013. Retrieved 14 October 2013.
- "Based on USD/SGD rate of 1.221". Xe.com. Archived from the original on 18 February 2013. Retrieved 14 October 2013.
- Lee, Yen Nee. "Singapore fifth worst tax haven in the world: Oxfam". Archived from the original on 28 August 2019. Retrieved 28 August 2019.
- Andrew Heathcote (15 April 2013). "Tax havens: Brett Blundy latest to join the Singapore set". Business Review Weekly. Archived from the original on 14 April 2013. Retrieved 18 April 2013.
- Nooten, Carrie (4 April 2013). "Pourquoi Cahuzac a-t-il placé son argent à Singapour?". Slate (in French). Archived from the original on 14 November 2016. Retrieved 13 November 2016.
- "Financial Secrecy Index – 2015 Results: Narrative Report on Singapore" (PDF). Tax Justice Network. 2015. Archived from the original (PDF) on 1 October 2016. Retrieved 23 November 2016.
- "Jakarta plans tax haven on two islands near Singapore". The Straits Times. 14 August 2016. Archived from the original on 14 November 2016. Retrieved 13 November 2016.
- Anshuman Daga; Joshua Franklin (11 October 2016). "Singapore shuts Falcon bank unit, fines DBS and UBS over 1MDB". Reuters. Archived from the original on 14 November 2016. Retrieved 13 November 2016.
- "UBS et Falcon sanctionnés à Singapour dans le scandale 1MBD". Bilan.ch (in French). 11 October 2016. Archived from the original on 2 May 2018. Retrieved 13 November 2016.
- Ungku, Fathin; Teo, Hillary (11 March 2017). "Water price hike sparks rare public protest in Singapore". Reuters. Archived from the original on 12 March 2017. Retrieved 11 March 2017.
- Lee Yen Nee (10 March 2016). "Singapore ranked world's most expensive city for 3rd year running". Today. Singapore. Archived from the original on 24 April 2017. Retrieved 11 March 2017.
- "Asian and European cities compete for the title of most expensive city". The Economist. London. 15 March 2018. Archived from the original on 1 May 2018. Retrieved 21 April 2018.
- "Assistance". Ministry of Social and Family Development. 26 October 2014. Archived from the original on 26 October 2014.
- "The stingy nanny". The Economist. London. 16 October 2009. Archived from the original on 2 February 2012. Retrieved 14 February 2012.
- "Welfare in Singapore: Singapore government response". The Economist. London. 17 February 2010. Archived from the original on 29 June 2012. Retrieved 14 February 2012.
- "ActiveSG$100 for Singaporeans to play sport". Today. Singapore. 26 April 2014. Archived from the original on 23 June 2016. Retrieved 13 July 2016.
- "Baby Bonus". Ministry of Social & Family Development. Archived from the original on 16 October 2015. Retrieved 13 July 2016.
- "NEU PC Plus Programme". Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore. Archived from the original on 19 January 2016. Retrieved 13 July 2016.
- "250,000 Public Transport Vouchers to Help Needy Families Cope with Fare Adjustment". Ministry of Transport. 21 January 2015. Archived from the original on 29 May 2016. Retrieved 13 July 2016.
- "Numbers and profile of homeless persons". Ministry of Social and Family Development. 13 August 2012. Archived from the original on 13 May 2016. Retrieved 13 July 2016.
- "Singapore Budget 2014 – Measures For Households". Government of Singapore. Archived from the original on 25 June 2016. Retrieved 13 July 2016.
- "Human Development Report 2019" (PDF). UNDP. 2019. Archived (PDF) from the original on 22 June 2020. Retrieved 20 June 2020.
- Savage, Victor R.; Yeoh, Brenda S.A. (2004). Toponymics: A Study of Singapore's Street Names. Singapore: Eastern Universities Press. ISBN 978-981-210-364-2.
- "Bukit Timah Hill". National Heritage Board. Archived from the original on 9 April 2015. Retrieved 11 January 2015.
- Commonwealth and Colonial Law by Kenneth Roberts-Wray, London, Stevens, 1966. Pgs. 133–134
- Department of External Affairs in Australia. (16 May 1957): Report from the Australian High Commission in Singapore to the Department of External Affairs in Australia. Singapore: National Archives of Singapore. (Microfilm: NAB 447)
- "All set for transfer". The Straits Times. Singapore. 16 May 1958. p. 2. Archived from the original on 6 September 2015. Retrieved 17 February 2019.
- "Pedra Branca". Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Archived from the original on 20 December 2019. Retrieved 4 February 2020.
- "Such quantities of sand". The Economist. London. 28 February 2015. Archived from the original on 13 September 2017. Retrieved 11 September 2017.
- "MND Land Use Report". Ministry of National Development. Archived from the original on 4 February 2013.
- "Earthshots: Satellite Images of Environmental Change: Singapore". Earthshots. Archived from the original on 21 May 2015. Retrieved 14 April 2015.
- "New ideas to feed a growing island". The Straits Times. Singapore. 4 February 2018. Archived from the original on 29 May 2019. Retrieved 29 May 2019.
- ^ Brook, Barry W.; Sodhi, Navjot S.; Ng, Peter K.L. (24 July 2003). "Catastrophic extinctions follow deforestation in Singapore". Nature. 424 (6947): 420–426. Bibcode:2003Natur.424..420B. doi:10.1038/nature01795. ISSN 0028-0836. PMID 12879068. S2CID 4404246.
- ""Garden City" vision is introduced". History SG. Archived from the original on 30 October 2016. Retrieved 16 November 2016.
- "Singapore, A City in a Garden" (PDF). National Parks Board. Archived from the original (PDF) on 24 March 2014.
- "Speech by MOS Desmond Lee at the Asia for Animals Conference Gala Dinner". National Development Ministry. Archived from the original on 10 July 2014. Retrieved 17 January 2014.
- "National Initiatives". National Biodiversity Reference Center. Archived from the original on 5 October 2007. Retrieved 26 September 2009.
- "Singapore Botanic Gardens declared UNESCO World Heritage Site". Channel NewsAsia. 4 July 2015. Archived from the original on 15 November 2017. Retrieved 15 November 2017.
- "Climate of Singapore". weather.gov.sg. Archived from the original on 29 May 2020. Retrieved 28 May 2020.
- McKnight, Tom L. (Tom Lee); Hess, Darrel (2000). Physical geography : a landscape appreciation. Internet Archive. Upper Saddle River, N.J. : Prentice Hall. Retrieved 28 May 2020.
- "Singapore National Environment Agency Weather Statistics". Archived from the original on 31 October 2016. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
- Bond, Sam (2 October 2006). "Singapore enveloped by Sumatran smog". Edie newsroom. Archived from the original on 27 September 2011. Retrieved 2 June 2011.
- Mok Ly Yng (22 September 2010). "Why is Singapore in the 'Wrong' Time Zone?". National University of Singapore. Archived from the original on 28 July 2010. Retrieved 5 May 2020.
- "Astronomical and Tidal Information | Monthly Data". weather.gov.sg. Archived from the original on 18 May 2020. Retrieved 31 May 2020.
- Tan, Audrey (18 February 2020). "Singapore Budget 2020: New coastal and flood protection fund to protect Singapore against rising sea levels". The Straits Times. Singapore. Archived from the original on 20 February 2020. Retrieved 20 February 2020.
- Overland, Indra et al. (2017) Impact of Climate Change on ASEAN International Affairs: Risk and Opportunity Multiplier Archived 28 July 2020 at the Wayback Machine, Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) and Myanmar Institute of International and Strategic Studies (MISIS).
- "Singapore Budget 2018: Carbon tax of $5 per tonne of greenhouse gas emissions to be levied". The Straits Times. Singapore. 19 February 2018. Archived from the original on 19 February 2018. Retrieved 24 March 2020.
- "One of world's largest floating solar farms coming up in Tuas". The Straits Times. Singapore. 19 August 2020. Archived from the original on 25 November 2020. Retrieved 13 September 2020.
- "Records of Climate Station Means (Climatological Reference Period: 1991-2020)". National Environment Agency (Singapore). Retrieved 5 August 2021.
- "Historical Extremes". National Environment Agency (Singapore). Retrieved 5 August 2021.
- "Singapore/Changi Climate Normals 1991–2020". World Meteorological Organization Climatological Standard Normals (1991–2020). National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Archived from the original on 1 August 2023. Retrieved 1 August 2023.
- Nur Asyiqin, Mohamad Salleh (1 March 2017). "Parliament: Water an issue of national security and must be priced fully, Masagos says". The Straits Times. Archived from the original on 14 April 2021. Retrieved 6 December 2020.
- "Water Action Decade – Singapore". Water Action Decade. Archived from the original on 9 December 2020. Retrieved 6 December 2020.
- "S'pore 'most at risk of facing high water stress'". The Straits Times. 29 August 2015. Archived from the original on 22 January 2021. Retrieved 6 December 2020.
- "Singapore Water Story". Public Utilities Board. 2018. Archived from the original on 29 March 2022. Retrieved 17 March 2018.
- Ivy Ong Bee Luan (2010). "Singapore Water Management Policies and Practices". International Journal of Water Resources Development. 26 (1): 65–80. Bibcode:2010IJWRD..26...65L. doi:10.1080/07900620903392190. S2CID 154813810.
- "Singapore To Meet Water Target Before Deadline: Southeast Asia". Bloomberg News. 30 July 2012. Archived from the original on 5 August 2012. Retrieved 9 August 2012.
- "Four National Taps Provide Water for All". Archived from the original on 30 July 2012. Retrieved 10 August 2012.
- "Resource-starved Singapore turns sewage into ultra-clean water". phys.org. Archived from the original on 13 August 2021. Retrieved 13 August 2021.
- "2018 Water / Wastewater Project of the Year". Global Water Awards. Archived from the original on 13 August 2021. Retrieved 13 August 2021.
- "PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency". PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency. Retrieved 13 August 2021.
- Walker, Andy (4 May 2023). "Singapore's digital twin – from science fiction to hi-tech reality". Infrastructure Global. Retrieved 20 November 2024.
- "Public transport ridership" (PDF). Land Transport Authority. Archived from the original (PDF) on 1 April 2010. Retrieved 2 July 2011.
- "Tracing our steps". Land Transport Authority. Archived from the original on 5 June 2011. Retrieved 2 July 2011.
- Small, Kenneth A.; Verhoef, Erik T. (2007). The Economics of Urban Transportation. London: Routledge. p. 148. ISBN 978-0-415-28515-5.
- Cervero, Robert (1998). The Transit Metropolis. Washington DC: Island Press. p. 169. ISBN 978-1-55963-591-2. Chapter 6/The Master Planned Transit Metropolis: Singapore.
- "Electronic Road Pricing". Land Transport Authority. Archived from the original on 10 April 2008. Retrieved 16 April 2008.
- "Satellite-based ERP to be ready by 2020, with S$556m contract awarded". Channel NewsAsia. 25 February 2016. Archived from the original on 17 August 2018. Retrieved 17 August 2018.
- Aquino, Kristine (17 February 2011). "BMW Costing $260,000 Means Cars Only for Rich in Singapore as Taxes Climb". New York: Bloomberg L.P. Archived from the original on 20 February 2011. Retrieved 2 July 2011.
- "Once you're here: Basic Road Rules and Regulations". Expat Singapore. 16 August 2009. Archived from the original on 15 December 2014. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- "Rail Network". Land Transport Authority. Retrieved 9 December 2022.
- "Bus". Land Transport Authority. Retrieved 9 December 2022.
- "Getting A Taxi". Land Transport Authority. Archived from the original on 27 May 2016. Retrieved 13 July 2016.
- Lim, Yan Liang (13 October 2013). "A look at Woodlands Checkpoint: Singapore's first and last line of defence". The Straits Times. Retrieved 27 April 2022.
- Marks, Kathy (30 November 2007). "Qantas celebrates 60 years of the 'Kangaroo Route'". The Independent. London.
- "Malaysia and Singapore resolve airspace issue, Firefly to resume flights to Seletar airport". The Star Online. 6 April 2019.
- "Malaysian carrier Firefly to resume Singapore flights with twice-daily trips". CNA. Archived from the original on 17 June 2021. Retrieved 28 August 2019.
- "About Changi Airport". Changiairport.com. Archived from the original on 21 November 2014. Retrieved 13 July 2016.
- "2006 Airport of the Year result". World Airport Awards. Archived from the original on 31 December 2006. Retrieved 1 June 2006.
- "The Busiest Flight Routes of 2023". OAG.com. OAG Aviation Worldwide Limited. 2024. Retrieved 20 November 2024.
- Yap, Jimmy (30 January 2004). "Turbulence ahead for Singapore flag carrier". Brand Republic. London: Haymarket Business Media.
- "Singapore Airlines". Skytrax. Retrieved 9 December 2022.
- "Skytrax World Airline Awards". Skytrax. Retrieved 9 December 2022.
- McMah, Lauren (10 August 2021). "Singapore is no longer the world's best airport". news.com.au. Archived from the original on 10 August 2021. Retrieved 13 January 2024.
- "The World's Top 10 Airports of 2023". SKYTRAX.
- "The World's Best Airports". SKYTRAX.
- "Singapore's 2019 Maritime Performance". Archived from the original on 3 January 2022. Retrieved 4 February 2020.
- Pillai, Sharanya (13 January 2020). "Singapore port container throughput hits record high in 2019: MPA". The Business Times.
- "The Global Financial Centres Index 28" (PDF). Long Finance. September 2020. Retrieved 26 September 2020.
- Adam, Shamim (10 August 2011). "Singapore Miracle Dimming as Income Gap Widens Squeeze by Rich". Bloomberg. New York. Archived from the original on 16 August 2011.
- Facts and Figures – Singapore Economic Development Board. Archived 20 July 2012 at the Wayback Machine
- Burton, John (10 April 2006). "Singapore economy grows 9.1% in first quarter". Financial Times. London. Archived from the original on 10 December 2022.
- "Facts and Figures". Singapore Economic Development Board. 30 January 2012. Archived from the original on 18 April 2012. Retrieved 21 April 2012.
- Yang Huiwen (7 November 2007). "Singapore ranked No. 1 logistics hub by World Bank". The Straits Times. Singapore. p. 69.
- "Gross Domestic Product by Industry" (PDF). Singapore Statistics. 2007. Archived from the original (PDF) on 24 June 2008. Retrieved 22 April 2010.
- World Intellectual Property Organization (2024). Global Innovation Index 2024: Unlocking the Promise of Social Entrepreneurship. World Intellectual Property Organization. p. 18. doi:10.34667/tind.50062. ISBN 978-92-805-3681-2. Retrieved 6 October 2024.
{{cite book}}
:|website=
ignored (help) - WIPO (23 October 2023). Global Innovation Index 2023, 15th Edition. World Intellectual Property Organization. doi:10.34667/tind.46596. ISBN 9789280534320. Retrieved 17 October 2023.
- WIPO (2022). Global Innovation Index 2022, 15th Edition. World Intellectual Property Organization. doi:10.34667/tind.46596. ISBN 9789280534320. Retrieved 16 November 2022.
- "RTD – Item". ec.europa.eu. Retrieved 2 September 2021.
- "Global Innovation Index". INSEAD Knowledge. 28 October 2013. Archived from the original on 2 September 2021. Retrieved 2 September 2021.
- "Heng upbeat about semiconductor industry's prospects". Straits Times. 18 September 2019.
- "Singapore's OCBC Strongest Bank as Canadians Dominate". Bloomberg Business. New York. 10 May 2011. Archived from the original on 16 October 2015.
- "Global 500". Fortune. Retrieved 23 October 2020.
- "SIA tops Asian list among 50 most admired global firms". The Straits Times. Singapore. 26 February 2015. Archived from the original on 22 September 2015.
- "The world's best airlines". Fortune. New York. 7 July 2015.
- "Lee Kuan Yew, truly the father of Changi airport". The Business Times. Singapore. 12 September 2015.
- Ramesh, S. (14 January 2011). "S'pore is India's second-largest foreign investor". Singapore: Channel NewsAsia. Archived from the original on 22 July 2012.
- "Singapore". Export Britain. Archived from the original on 20 August 2017. Retrieved 7 November 2017.
- Desker, Barry; Ang, Cheng Guan (22 July 2015). Perspectives on the Security of Singapore: The First 50 Years. World Scientific. p. 128. ISBN 978-981-4689-33-5.
- Lim Hui Jie (1 February 2024). "Singapore tourist arrivals double in 2023 amid global travel recovery". CNBC.com. Retrieved 23 October 2024.
- "Overview". Singapore Tourism Board. 2024. Retrieved 23 October 2024.
- "World Travel and Tourism Council 2017 Singapore report" (PDF). World Travel and Tourism Council. Archived from the original (PDF) on 23 October 2019. Retrieved 23 October 2019.
- "52 Places to Visit in 2015". The New York Times. 1 January 2015. Retrieved 11 December 2015.
- "Merlion | Infopedia". eresources.nlb.gov.sg. Retrieved 31 May 2020.
- ^ "Singapore's most iconic landmarks". visitsingapore.com. Retrieved 29 April 2022.
- "Marina Bay Sands". visitsingapore.com. Retrieved 31 May 2020.
- "Gardens by the Bay". visitsingapore.com. Retrieved 31 May 2020.
- "Jewel Changi Airport". visitsingapore.com. Retrieved 31 May 2020.
- ^ "Orchard Road: A shopping paradise". Singapore Tourism Board. Retrieved 27 August 2019.
- "Overview". sentosa.gov.sg. Retrieved 28 May 2020.
- "Singapore Botanic Gardens clinches prestigious Unesco World Heritage site status". The Straits Times. Singapore. 4 July 2015. Retrieved 25 May 2020.
- "Singapore Tourism Board and Singapore Economic Development Board launch Passion Made Possible Brand for Singapore" (Press release). 24 August 2017. Archived from the original on 14 December 2018.
- "Singapore Zoo". National Library Board. 22 July 2014. Retrieved 27 August 2019.
- Dogra, Sapna (16 July 2005). "Medical tourism boom takes Singapore by storm". Express Healthcare Management. Mumbai. Archived from the original on 26 October 2005.
- "Population and Population Structure". Department of Statistics Singapore. Archived from the original on 16 November 2023. Retrieved 16 November 2023.
- Kok, Xinghui. "Singapore's population grows 5% as foreign workers return post-pandemic". Reuters.
- ^ Census of Population 2010 Advance Census Release (PDF) (Report). Singapore Department of Statistics. 2010. pp. 13–16. ISBN 978-981-08-6819-2. Archived from the original (PDF) on 27 March 2012. Retrieved 2 July 2011.
- "Trends in international migrant stock: The 2008 revision", United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division (2009).
- Singapore Department of Statistics | Census of Population 2020 Statistical Release 1 – Demographic Characteristics, Education, Language and Religion, p. 20.
- Hoe Yeen Nie (12 January 2010). "Singaporeans of mixed race allowed to 'double barrel' race in IC". Singapore: Channel NewsAsia. Archived from the original on 6 February 2010. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
- ^ "Lessons from Singapore on Raising Fertility Rates – IMF F&D". IMF. Retrieved 22 January 2024.
- "World Bank Open Data". World Bank Open Data. Retrieved 22 January 2024.
Fertility rate, total (births per woman) – Singapore; ( 1 ) United Nations Population Division. World Population Prospects: 2022 Revision. ( 2 ) Census reports and other statistical publications from national statistical offices, ( 3 ) Eurostat: Demographic Statistics, ( 4 ) United Nations Statistical Division. Population and Vital Statistics Report ( various years ), ( 5 ) U.S. Census Bureau: International Database, and ( 6 ) Secretariat of the Pacific Community: Statistics and Demography Programme.
- "Singapore: citizen population median age 1970–2022". Statista. Retrieved 22 January 2024.
- Jacob, Charmaine (18 September 2023). "Singapore's birth rate is at a record low — but 'throwing money' at the problem won't solve it". CNBC. Retrieved 22 January 2024.
- Ng, Julia (7 February 2007). "Singapore's birth trend outlook remains dismal". Singapore: Channel NewsAsia. Archived from the original on 5 January 2012. Retrieved 22 April 2010.
- O'Callaghan, John (31 August 2012). "Tiny Singapore risks economic gloom without big baby boom". Reuters. Retrieved 17 May 2021.
- Jessica Pan and Walter Theseira, Immigration in Singapore – Background paper to the World Development Report 2023: Migrants, Refugees, and Societies (April 2023)
- "Statistics Singapore – Latest Data – Households & Housing". Retrieved 27 February 2015.
- "Statistics Singapore – Latest Data – Households & Housing". Statistics Singapore. 2014. Archived from the original on 29 November 2015. Retrieved 20 April 2015.
- "Singapore Resident Households by dwellings". Archived from the original on 15 February 2020. Retrieved 15 February 2015.
- "HDB InfoWEB: HDB Wins the 2010 UN-HABITAT Scroll of Honour Award". Hdb.gov.sg. Archived from the original on 11 December 2011. Retrieved 14 October 2013.
- "More than 1.3 million foreigners working in Singapore: Tan Chuan-Jin". Singapore: Channel NewsAsia. 5 August 2014. Archived from the original on 14 September 2014. Retrieved 26 October 2014.
- "Introduction – Inter-Religious Organisation, Singapore". Retrieved 10 July 2022.
- "Global Religious Diversity". Pew Research Center's Religion & Public Life Project. 4 April 2014. Retrieved 10 July 2022.
- "Census of population 2010: Statistical Release 1 on Demographic Characteristics, Education, Language and Religion" (PDF) (Press release). Singapore Department of Statistics. 12 January 2011. Archived from the original (PDF) on 24 January 2011. Retrieved 16 January 2011.
- Khun Eng Kuah (2009). State, society, and religious engineering: toward a reformist Buddhism in Singapore. Singapore: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. ISBN 978-981-230-865-8. Retrieved 1 November 2010.
- "Modernity in south-east Asia". Informaworld. 2 December 1995.
- ^ Republic of Singapore Independence Act 1965 (No. 9 of 1965, 1985 Rev. Ed.), s7.
- Gupta, A.F. Fischer, K. (ed.). "Epistemic modalities and the discourse particles of Singapore". Approaches to Discourse Particles. Amsterdam: Elsevier: 244–263. Archived from the original (DOC) on 5 February 2011. Retrieved 2 February 2011.
- ^ Dixon, L. Quentin. (2005). The Bilingual Education Policy in Singapore: Implications for Second Language Acquisition. In James Cohen, J., McAlister, K. T., Rolstad, K., and MacSwan, J (Eds.), ISB4: Proceedings of the 4th International Symposium on Bilingualism. p. 625–635, Cascadilla Press, Somerville, MA.
- "Global Literacy: The advantage of speaking good English" (Press release). Ministry of Education. 31 March 2000. Archived from the original on 6 March 2012. Retrieved 27 January 2011.
- Tan, Sherman, p. 340–341. "The four recognised official languages are English, Mandarin, Tamil, and Malay, but in practice, English is Singapore's default lingua franca."
- "Education UK Partnership – Country focus". British Council. October 2010. Archived from the original on 2 April 2011. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- "Speech by Mr S. Iswaran, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Trade and Industry and Ministry of Education". Ministry of Education. 19 April 2010. Archived from the original on 19 May 2011.
- "What do I do if I can't speak English?". Singapore Subordinate Courts. Archived from the original on 9 July 2010. Retrieved 11 October 2011.
- Constitution of the Republic of Singapore ({{{rep}}} Reprint)
- "Public Agencies". 6 January 2015. Archived from the original on 6 January 2015. Retrieved 21 September 2018.
- "31 March 2000". Moe.gov.sg. Archived from the original on 6 March 2012. Retrieved 27 January 2011.
- Afendras, Evangelos A.; Kuo, Eddie C.Y. (1980). Language and society in Singapore. Singapore University Press. ISBN 978-9971-69-016-8. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- Ammon, Ulrich; Dittmar, Norbert; Mattheier, Klaus J. (2006). Sociolinguistics: An international handbook of the science of language and society. Vol. 3. Berlin: Walter de Gruyter. ISBN 978-3-11-018418-1. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- Singapore Arms and Flag and National Anthem Act (Cap. 296, 1985 Rev. Ed.)
- "Literacy and Language" (PDF). Singapore Statistics. Archived from the original (PDF) on 13 November 2009. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- ^ "General Household Survey 2015" (PDF). 2015. Archived from the original (PDF) on 15 December 2017. Retrieved 15 November 2016.
- Cook, Vivian; Bassetti, Benedetta (2005). Second Language Writing Systems. Multilingual Matters. p. 359. ISBN 978-1-85359-793-0.
- "Update Change of Name in IC". Immigration and Checkpoints Authority. Archived from the original on 2 February 2017. Retrieved 29 January 2017.
- Oi, Mariko (5 October 2010). "Singapore's booming appetite to study Mandarin". BBC News. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- "General Household Survey 2005, Statistical Release 1: Socio-Demographic and Economic Characteristics" (PDF). Singapore Statistics. 2005. Archived from the original on 26 March 2012. Retrieved 11 November 2010.
- Fagao Zhou (1986). Papers in Chinese Linguistics and Epigraphy. Chinese University Press. p. 56. ISBN 978-962-201-317-9. Retrieved 31 January 2017.
- "What are some commonly misspelled English words?|ASK!ASK!". Archived from the original on 3 March 2012.
- "What are some commonly misspelled English words?". Singapore: National Library Board. 18 April 2008. Archived from the original on 3 March 2012. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
- Tan Hwee Hwee (22 July 2002). "A war of words is brewing over Singlish". Time. New York. Archived from the original on 29 April 2007. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
- ^ Harbeck, James (19 September 2016). "The language the government tried to suppress". BBC. Retrieved 1 May 2022.
- "Private Education in Singapore". Ministry of Education. 2011. Retrieved 2 July 2011.
- "International Student Admissions: General Information on Studying in Singapore". Ministry of Education. Archived from the original on 4 March 2011. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- "ASEAN Scholarships: Frequently Asked Questions". Ministry of Education. Archived from the original on 6 April 2008. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- "Speech by Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Senior Minister of State for Trade & Industry and Education at the Seminar on "The Significance of Speaking Skills For Language Development", organised by the Tamil Language and Culture Division of Nie on 15 February 2003" (Press release). Ministry of Education. 2 January 2008. Archived from the original on 15 May 2011. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- "Mandarin is important but remains a second language in S'pore MM Lee". Singapore: Channel NewsAsia. 26 June 2010. Archived from the original on 30 June 2017. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- "Returning Singaporeans – Mother-Tongue Language Policy". Ministry of Education. Archived from the original on 8 April 2008. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- "Refinements to Mother Tongue Language Policy" (Press release). Ministry of Education. Archived from the original on 24 February 2011. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- ^ "Primary Education". Ministry of Education. 2011. Retrieved 2 July 2011.
- "Primary School Curriculum". Ministry of Education. 2011. Archived from the original on 7 April 2008. Retrieved 2 July 2011.
- ^ "Secondary Education". Ministry of Education. 2011. Retrieved 2 July 2011.
- "Special/Express Courses Curriculum". Ministry of Education. 2011. Archived from the original on 7 April 2008. Retrieved 2 July 2011.
- "Pre-University Education". Ministry of Education. 2011. Archived from the original on 5 April 2008. Retrieved 2 July 2011.
- "How Singapore's six public universities differ". The Straits Times. Singapore. 3 March 2015. Retrieved 23 September 2016.
- "QS World University Rankings 2015/16". QS. 11 September 2015. Retrieved 15 November 2016.
- "Secondary". Ministry of Education. Retrieved 2 December 2016.
- "Singapore's Education System: An Overview". Ministry of Education. Retrieved 6 December 2016.
- "Developing Asian education hubs". EU-Asia Higher Education Platform. 2011. Archived from the original on 23 October 2011. Retrieved 12 October 2011.
- "The long, long ride". New Straits Times. Kuala Lumpur. 7 May 2006. Archived from the original on 15 June 2013. Retrieved 12 October 2011. Alt URL
- "Foreign Students in Singapore". Ministry of Education. 2011. Archived from the original on 9 April 2009. Retrieved 12 October 2011.
- "Singapore tops OECD's global school ranking, US placed 28th". CNBC. 13 May 2015.
- "Singapore tops biggest global education rankings published by OECD". The Straits Times. Singapore. 13 May 2015.
- "Pisa tests: Singapore top in global education rankings". BBC News. 7 December 2016.
- "PISA: Singapore teens top global education ranking". CNN. 6 December 2016.
- "Why Singapore's kids are so good at maths". Financial Times. London. 22 July 2016. Archived from the original on 10 December 2022.
- "S'pore students top in science, maths and reading in Pisa test". Today. Singapore. 6 December 2016.
- "Singapore students top in maths, science and reading in Pisa international benchmarking test". The Straits Times. Singapore. 6 December 2016.
- "U.S. Teenagers Lose Ground in International Math Exam, Raising Competitiveness Concerns". The Wall Street Journal. New York. 6 December 2016.
- "UK Schools climb international league table". The Guardian. London. 6 December 2016.
- Nylander, Johan (14 November 2016). "Singaporeans among top English speakers; Hong Kong slides". Asia Times Online. Hong Kong. Retrieved 16 November 2016.
- "Dutch Pass Danes to Become World's Best English Speakers". Yahoo News. 15 November 2016. Archived from the original on 8 August 2017.
- "The Nordics have the highest English proficiency in the world – and it's boosting their tech and innovation". Business Insider. 16 November 2016. Archived from the original on 13 July 2017. Retrieved 6 July 2017.
- "How Well is English Spoken Worldwide?". Voice of America News. 15 November 2016.
- Tucci, John (2010). "The Singapore health system – achieving positive health outcomes with low expenditure". Towers Watson. Archived from the original on 10 December 2012. Retrieved 16 March 2011.
- "World Health Organization Assesses the World's Health Systems" (Press release). World Health Organization. 7 February 2000. Retrieved 13 March 2023.
- "Latest Data – Births & Deaths". Department of Statistics. 2014. Archived from the original on 29 November 2015. Retrieved 26 April 2015.
- "Singaporeans have world's longest life expectancy at 84.8 years". The Straits Times. 20 June 2019.
- "The World's Best Countries For Food Security". worldatlas.com. 18 April 2019.
- "Data of 14,200 people with HIV leaked online by American fraudster: MOH". Business Times. Singapore. 28 January 2019.
- "Singapore: Health Profile" (PDF). Geneva: World Health Organization. 13 August 2010. Retrieved 16 March 2011.
- "At a glance: Singapore". Unicef. Archived from the original on 27 August 2019. Retrieved 27 August 2019.
- "The lottery of life". The Economist. London. 21 November 2012.
- Ramesh, M. (2008). "Autonomy and Control in Public Hospital Reforms in Singapore". The American Review of Public Administration. 38 (1): 18. doi:10.1177/0275074007301041. S2CID 154781227.
- "The World Health Report" (PDF). World Health Organization. 2000. p. 66. Retrieved 16 March 2011.
- "Core Health Indicators Singapore". World Health Organization. May 2008. Archived from the original on 26 July 2009. Retrieved 16 March 2011.
- ^ "Speech by Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong on Singapore 21 Debate in Parliament". singapore21. 5 May 1999. Archived from the original on 10 February 2001. Retrieved 27 October 2011.
- "MM Lee says Singapore needs to do more to achieve nationhood". Singapore: Channel NewsAsia. 5 May 2009. Archived from the original on 30 June 2017. Retrieved 27 October 2011.
- B. H. Goh, Robbie (2009). "Christian identities in Singapore: religion, race and culture between state controls and transnational flows". Journal of Cultural Geography. 26. routledge: 1–23. doi:10.1080/08873630802617135. S2CID 144728013.
- Siddique, Sharon (1981). "Some Aspects of Malay-Muslim Ethnicity in Peninsular Malaysia". Contemporary Southeast Asia. 3 (1): 76–87. doi:10.1355/CS3-1E (inactive 18 November 2024). JSTOR 25797648.
{{cite journal}}
: CS1 maint: DOI inactive as of November 2024 (link) - Prystay, Chris. "Bit of Malay Culture Is Now Vanishing Under Muslim Rules". Yale GlobalOnline. Yale University. Archived from the original on 7 August 2020. Retrieved 17 November 2018.
- "PM Lee on racial and religious issues (National Day Rally 2009)". Singapore United. 16 August 2009. Archived from the original on 20 February 2010. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- Prystay, Chris. "Bit of Malay Culture Is Now Vanishing Under Muslim Rules". YaleGlobal Online. Yale Universal. Archived from the original on 7 August 2020. Retrieved 17 November 2018.
- ^ Singapore, Curriculum Planning & Development Division (2015). Singapore : the making of a nation-state 1300–1975. Secondary Two, . Singapore. ISBN 978-981-4448-45-1. OCLC 903000193.
{{cite book}}
: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link) CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - Harding, Andrew (16 August 2004). "Singapore slings a little caution to the wind". BBC News. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- Arnold, Wayne (16 August 2004). "The Nanny State Places a Bet". The New York Times. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- "Old and new citizens get equal chance, says MM Lee" (Press release). Prime Minister's Office. 5 May 2010. Archived from the original on 12 August 2011. Retrieved 27 October 2011.
- "National Flower". nhb.gov.sg. National Heritage Board.
- "Ministry of Manpower issues response on debate over Thaipusam public holiday". The Straits Times. Singapore. 13 February 2015. Retrieved 4 July 2018.
- "Culture and the Arts in Renaissance Singapore" (PDF). Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts. Archived from the original (PDF) on 24 May 2006. Retrieved 1 May 2006.
- "About | Singapore Art Museum". www.singaporeartmuseum.sg. Retrieved 25 May 2024.
- NN, Soorya Kiran (29 November 2015). "Painting our own canvas". The Straits Times. Retrieved 17 August 2018.
- Faizah bte Zakaria (7 July 2016). "Esplanade-Theatres on the bay". Retrieved 16 March 2018.
- Wintle, Angela (5 February 2016). "Singlish, cultural diversity and hawker food essential in forging a national identity, say celebs". Channel NewsAsia. Archived from the original on 21 December 2017. Retrieved 17 August 2018.
- Toh, Wen Li (5 November 2018). "Singapore Writers Festival: Feature Singapore's unique language in literature, says poet". The Straits Times. Retrieved 27 August 2019.
- "The dynamics of multilingualism in contemporary Singapore" (PDF). Wiley-Blackwell. Archived from the original (PDF) on 28 March 2018. Retrieved 27 August 2019.
- "Singapore National Youth Orchestra". Ministry of Education. Archived from the original on 9 October 2014. Retrieved 5 October 2014.
- Ang, Steven. "Music director Adrian Tan ushers in new era for Braddell Heights Symphony Orchestra". Time Out Singapore. Archived from the original on 6 October 2014. Retrieved 5 October 2014.
- Lee Tong Soon (2008). "Singapore". In Terry Miller; Sean Williams (eds.). The Garland Handbook of Southeast Asian Music. Routledge. ISBN 978-0-415-96075-5.
- "An A-Z of the nation's iconic talents". The Sunday Times. 17 February 2019.
- NN, Soorya Kiran (20 August 2017). "Here's why Stefanie Sun's a Singapore icon". AsiaOne. Retrieved 17 August 2018.
- Wu, David Y.H.; Chee Beng Tan (2001). Changing Chinese foodways in Asia. Hong Kong: Chinese University Press. pp. 161 ff. ISBN 978-962-201-914-0. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- Farley, David. "The Dish Worth the 15-Hour Flight". BBC News.
- Ling, Catherine. "40 Singapore foods we can't live without". CNN. Archived from the original on 19 November 2012. Retrieved 13 January 2019.
- ^ Michaels, Rowena (20 July 2013). "Singapore's best street food ... just don't order frog porridge". The Daily Telegraph. London. Archived from the original on 10 January 2022. Retrieved 21 October 2013.
- Woo, Jacqueline (8 September 2018). "Food fight! The battle for the food delivery market". The Business Times.
- "70% of Singapore consumers order from food delivery apps at least once a month – and most are spending more money in recent years". Business Insider Singapore. 21 March 2019. Archived from the original on 23 September 2019.
- "The top celebrity chef restaurants to visit in Singapore". The Straits Times. Singapore. 23 June 2015.
- "Singapore Food Festival". Singapore Tourism Board. Retrieved 4 February 2020.
- Fieldmar, James (19 December 2012). "Singapore's Street Food 101". Fodor's. Archived from the original on 22 October 2013. Retrieved 21 October 2013.
- ^ Kong, Lily (2007). Singapore Hawker Centres : People, Places, Food. Singapore: SNP. ISBN 978-981-248-149-8.
- Han, Kirsten (4 August 2016). "Michelin star for Singapore noodle stall where lunch is half the price of a Big Mac". The Guardian. London.
- ^ "Michael Phelps taught a lesson for once – by Joseph Schooling | Andy Bull". The Guardian. 13 August 2016. Retrieved 17 August 2018.
- "History of Singapore Sports". Sport Singapore. Archived from the original on 6 July 2018. Retrieved 6 July 2018.
- "Tan Howe Liang". National Library Board. Retrieved 28 August 2019.
- "Singapore to host first edition of the Youth Olympic Games in 2010" (Press release). International Olympic Committee. 21 February 2008. Archived from the original on 11 March 2009. Retrieved 16 March 2011.
- "Sailing: S'pore retain world team title". 24 July 2013. Retrieved 28 August 2019.
- "Singapore sailing needs a trailblazer". 8 May 2017. Retrieved 28 August 2019.
- Chia, Nicole (20 August 2017). "SEA Games: Singapore capture men's 27th water polo gold to keep country's longest sports winning streak alive". The Straits Times. Retrieved 17 August 2018.
- Mohan, Matthew (9 August 2024). "Kitefoiler Max Maeder clinches Olympic bronze, makes history as Singapore's youngest Games medallist". CNA. Retrieved 14 August 2024.
- ir. "Olympics: First medal in 48 years for Singapore". Channel NewsAsia. Archived from the original on 22 November 2008. Retrieved 15 August 2008.
- Chua, Siang Yee (5 March 2016). "Table tennis: End of era for Singapore women paddlers". The Straits Times. Retrieved 28 August 2019.
- "World champs!: S'pore beat favourites China in World Team Table Tennis C'ships", Today, p. 1, 31 May 2010, archived from the original on 1 June 2010
- "Singapore's Loh Kean Yew is badminton world champion". The Straits Times. Retrieved 3 May 2022.
- "S.League.com – Overview". S.League. 2016. Archived from the original on 22 August 2013. Retrieved 5 January 2016.
{{cite web}}
: CS1 maint: unfit URL (link) - Football: Goodbye S-League, welcome Singapore Premier League The Straits Times, 21 March 2018
- "ASEAN Basketball League takes off". FIBA Asia. 20 January 2009. Archived from the original on 16 August 2009.
- "Singapore Turf Club". National Library Board. Retrieved 28 August 2019.
- "Singapore confirms 2008 night race" (Press release). Formula One. 11 May 2007. Archived from the original on 13 June 2007. Retrieved 18 May 2007.
- "SingTel to sponsor first Singapore Grand Prix" (Press release). Formula One. 16 November 2007. Archived from the original on 18 November 2007. Retrieved 10 December 2007.
- Oi, Mariko (23 April 2013). "The Big Read: To keep roaring for S'pore, F1 needs to raise its game". TODAYonline. Singapore.
- "Mixed martial arts-ONE FC returning to Manila in May". chicagotribune.com.
- ^ "Country Report 2010 Edition". Freedom House. 2010. Archived from the original on 15 December 2010. Retrieved 7 May 2011.
- "TV Guide". meWATCH. Retrieved 4 February 2022.
- "Cable Television". XIN MSN. 2011. Archived from the original on 14 July 2010. Retrieved 17 October 2011.
- "Internet Protocol Television (IPTV)". XIN MSN. 2011. Archived from the original on 14 July 2010. Retrieved 17 October 2011.
- ^ "Singapore country profile". BBC News. 16 November 2010. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- "2023 World Press Freedom Index for Singapore". RSF. 16 June 2023. Retrieved 4 October 2023.
- "Media: Overview". Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts. 16 March 2005. Archived from the original on 10 September 2006. Retrieved 27 February 2011.
- "ViewQwest 2Gbps FAQ". Archived from the original on 21 October 2015. Retrieved 2 November 2015.
- "Equinix further expands SG2 IBX data center in Singapore". Networks Asia. Archived from the original on 4 July 2018. Retrieved 4 July 2018.
- "Singapore Internet Exchange". Info-communications Media Development Authority. Archived from the original on 27 February 2018. Retrieved 4 July 2018.
- ^ Sandfort, Sandy (April 1993). "The Intelligent Island". Wired.
- Gibson, William (April 1993). "Disneyland with the Death Penalty". Wired.
- "Internet Users by Country (July 2016 estimate)". Internet Live States. July 2016. Retrieved 23 November 2016.
Elaboration of data by International Telecommunication Union (ITU), United Nations Population Division, Internet & Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), World Bank.
- "Singapore". OpenNet Initiative. Retrieved 7 May 2011.
- Wong, Tessa (11 January 2011). "Impossible for S'pore to block all undesirable sites". The Straits Times. Singapore: Singapore Press Holdings. Archived from the original on 19 January 2011. Retrieved 17 August 2011.
- Chua Hian Hou (23 May 2008). "MDA bans two video-sharing porn sites". The Straits Times. Singapore. Archived from the original on 24 May 2008.
- "Smartphone penetration in Singapore the highest globally: Survey". Today. Singapore. 11 February 2015.
- "Deloitte Mobile Consumer 2014" (Press release). Deloitte Australia. 25 November 2014. Archived from the original on 5 August 2018. Retrieved 13 January 2016.
- "6 top things that Singaporeans do when using their smartphones". Asiaone. 6 November 2014. Archived from the original on 26 January 2016. Retrieved 13 January 2016.
- "Statistics Singapore – Latest Data – Social Indicators". Singapore Department of Statistics. 2014. Archived from the original on 29 November 2015. Retrieved 26 April 2015.
Attribution
- This article incorporates public domain text from the websites of the Singapore Department of Statistics, the United States Department of State, the United States Library of Congress and The World Factbook.
Works cited
- Bose, Romen (2005). The End of the War: Singapore's Liberation and the Aftermath of the Second World War. Singapore: Marshall Cavendish. ISBN 978-981-261-066-9.
- Legg, Frank (1965). The Gordon Bennett Story: From Gallipoli to Singapore. Sydney, New South Wales: Angus & Robertson. OCLC 3193299.
- Miksic, John N. (2013). Singapore & the Silk Road of the Sea, 1300-1800. Singapore: NUS Press. ISBN 978-9971-69-558-3.
- Smith, Colin (2006). Singapore Burning: Heroism and Surrender in World War II. Penguin military history. London: Penguin Books. ISBN 978-0-14-101036-6.
- Toland, John (1970). The Rising Sun: The Decline and Fall of the Japanese Empire, 1936-1945. New York, NY: Random House. LCCN 77-117669. OL 25646706M.
- Wigmore, Lionel (1957). The Japanese Thrust. Canberra: Australian War Memorial.
Further reading
Library resources aboutSingapore
By Singapore
- Abshire, Jean E. (2011). The History of Singapore. The Greenwood histories of the modern nations. Santa Barbara, Calif: Greenwood Publishing Group. ISBN 978-0-313-37742-6. OCLC 669750075.
- Barr, Michael D. (2019). Singapore: A Modern History. London ; New York: Bloomsbury Academic. ISBN 978-1-350-13387-7. OCLC 1097575328.
- Corfield, Justin J. (2011). Historical Dictionary of Singapore. Historical dictionaries of Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East (New ed.). Lanham (Md.): Scarecrow Press. ISBN 978-0-8108-7184-7.
- Ghesquiere, Henri (2007). Singapore's Success: Engineering Economic Growth. Singapore: Thomson Corporation. ISBN 978-981-4195-28-7.
- Heng, Chye Kiang, ed. (2015). 50 Years Of Urban Planning In Singapore. Singapore: World Scientific. ISBN 978-981-4656-45-0.
- Hill, Michael; Lian, Kwen Fee (1995). The Politics of Nation Building and Citizenship in Singapore. Politics in Asia series (Repr ed.). London: Routledge. ISBN 978-0-415-12025-8.
- Huff, W. G. (1994). The Economic Growth of Singapore: Trade and Development in the Twentieth Century. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. ISBN 978-0-521-37037-0.
- King, Rodney (2008). The Singapore Miracle, Myth and Reality (2. ed.). Inglewood, WA: Insight Press. ISBN 978-0-9775567-0-0.
- Leifer, Michael (2000). Singapore's Foreign Policy: Coping with Vulnerability. Politics in Asia. London: Routledge. ISBN 978-0-415-23353-8.
- Mauzy, Diane K.; Milne, R. S. (2002). Singapore Politics Under the People's Action Party. Politics in Asia. New York: Routledge. ISBN 978-0-415-24653-8.
- Chia, Wai Mun; Sng, Hui Ying, eds. (2009). Singapore and Asia in a Globalized World: Contemporary Economic Issues and Policies. Singapore ; Hackensack, N.J: World Scientific. ISBN 978-981-281-557-6.
- Perry, John Curtis (2017). Singapore: Unlikely Power. New York, NY: Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-046950-4.
- Singh, Bilveer (2022). Understanding Singapore Politics (Second ed.). Singapore: World Scientific. ISBN 978-981-12-4340-0.
- Tan, Kenneth Paul (2007). Tan, Kenneth Paul (ed.). Renaissance Singapore? Economy, Culture, and Politics. Singapore: NUS Press. ISBN 978-9971-69-377-0.
- Worthington, Ross (2003). Governance in Singapore. London: RoutledgeCurzon. ISBN 978-0-7007-1474-2.
- Lee, Kuan Yew (2000). From Third World to First: The Singapore Story, 1965-2000. New York: HarperCollins. ISBN 978-0-06-019776-6.
External links
- "Singapore Infopedia" from Singapore's National Library Board; numerous well-researched and well-documented essays on key events and important figures, as well as topics regarding culture, architecture, nature, etc.
- Census of Population 2000 (PDF) (Report). Singapore Department of Statistics. April 2002. ISBN 978-981-04-6158-4. Archived from the original (PDF) on 27 November 2007.
- "Key Facts & Figures". Ministry of Transport, Singapore. Retrieved 11 January 2003.
- "Nation's History". Singapore Infomap. Archived from the original on 21 April 2009. Retrieved 11 January 2004.
- Singapore Government Online Portal
- Singapore from UCB Libraries GovPubs
- Singapore profile from the BBC News
- Wikimedia Atlas of Singapore
- Geographic data related to Singapore at OpenStreetMap
- WikiSatellite view of Singapore at WikiMapia
Articles related to Singapore | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Capitals of Asia | |||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dependent territories and states with limited recognition are in italics | |||||||||||
| |||||||||||
* Disputed. See: Chagos Archipelago sovereignty dispute, Cyprus dispute, Status of Jerusalem, Abkhaz-Georgian conflict and Georgian-Ossetian conflict |
- Singapore
- Capitals in Asia
- Countries and territories where Chinese is an official language
- City-states
- Republics in the Commonwealth of Nations
- Countries and territories where English is an official language
- Island countries
- Countries and territories where Malay is an official language
- Maritime Southeast Asia
- Member states of ASEAN
- Member states of the Commonwealth of Nations
- Member states of the United Nations
- Populated coastal places
- Small Island Developing States
- Southeast Asian countries
- States and territories established in 1965
- Countries and territories where Tamil is an official language
- 1965 establishments in Asia
- Countries in Asia
- Populated places established in 1819