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Singapore n.d. [OA 7566]
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323153802
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Singapore n.d. [OA 7566]
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Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
Speech Backup Chronological Files
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Backup Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13792
Folder ID Number:
13792-002
Folder Title:
Singapore n.d. [OA 7566]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
26
22
2
3
AMERICAN EMBASSY SINGAPORE
KEY PERSONNEL
TELEPHONE LISTING
Embassy Tel: 338-0251
Executive Office
Ext. #
Ambassador
Robert D. Orr
218*
Deputy Chief of Mission
Arthur Kobler
217*
Section Chiefs - State Department
Administrative Counselor
Bob Courtney
223*
Communications Officer
Frank Pressley
264*
Consular
Caryl Courtney
328*
Econ/Pol Counselor
C. Lawrence Greenwood Jr.
300/309*
General Service Officer
Frank Matthews
271*
Personnel Officer
Ben Justesen
251*
Systems Manager
Aila Long
227*
Reg. Security Officer
Douglas Quiram
222*
Chiefs - Other Agencies
Agricultural Trade Office
Geoff Wiggin
737-1233
Defense Attache Office
CAPT. William Cooper, USN
315/316*
Drug Enforcement Admin.
Harry Fullett
286*
Federal Aviation Admin.
Don Schmidt
341*
Foreign Commercial Service
George Ruffner
338-9722
Immigration & Nat.
Donald Addington, acting
334-4075
Internal Revenue Service
Charles Landry
245*
Marine Security Guard (NCOIC)
GySgt. Dempsey
203*
Navy Regional Contracting Cen.
LCDR. Anthony Mosley
221-6266
Refugee Office
Caryl Courtney
328*
AID - Regional Inspector
James Durnil
334-2766
General / Audit
AID - Regional Inspector
Philip Rodokanakis
334-1766
General / Investigations
Customs Service
James Wilkie
345*
U.S. Information Service
Dennis D. Donahue
224-5233
*Embassy Telephone: 338-0251
ISTANA NEGARA
(National Palace)
The Istana Negara (formerly Government House) was built in
1869 to house the British Governor of Singapore. The grounds
had been the nutmeg estate of Charles Robert Princep, with an
estimated 6,700 trees in 1848. It was renamed and converted to
the official residence of the President of Singapore at
independence in 1959.
Gov. Sir Harry George Ord came to Singapore in 1867 after
the administration of the Straits Settlements (Singapore,
Malacca and Penang) was transferred from India to direct
control of the Crown. Lady Ord laid the foundation stone for
their new residence in July 1867. It was built primarily with
convict labor and was criticized at the time as an unnecessary
extravagance. The building was completed in time for the visit
of the Duke of Edinburgh in 1869. Total cost of land,
construction and furnishings (brought from England) was $43,800.
A statue of Queen Victoria was installed in the drawing
room to mark her jubilee in 1889. The gun in front is a
Japanes 105 mm captured in Burma in 1945 and presented in 1946
by Adm. Lord Louis Mountbatten, Supreme Allied Commander for
Southeast Asia.
Since 1959, the Istana has been used only for official
functions and VIP guests of state. Queen Elizabeth II and the
Duke of Edinburgh stayed there in February 1972. The
President, the Prime Minister and the Senior Minister (Lee Kuan
Yew) have their offices in the Istana.
From "Singapore Then and Now," by Ray Tyers, 1973.
THE ISTANA
The Istana, previously known as Government House, was designed and
built by a British colonial engineer, Maj. J.F.A. Nair. The foundation
stone was laid in July 1867, and the building was completed in 1869.
It became the official residence of governors appointed under the British
colonial office. Fifteen governors were appointed under this an age-
ment, until the fall of Singapore to the Japanese in 1942. Following the
Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945, Government House was again
occupied by colonial governors.
In 1959, the name of Government House was changed to "Istana Negara
(National Palace)." It is now known as the "Istana."
The staff of the President, the Cabinet Office and a section of the Prime
Minister's office work at the Istana. The President and his staff work in
the main building. The Prime Minister and his staff, including Cabinet
Office staff, occupy the Annex.
EXCHANGE TABLE
Exchange Rate: US $1.00 = S$ 1.678
SINGAPORE DOLLARS
US DOLLARS
1.00
.60
5.00
2.98
10.00
5.96
25.00
14.90
50.00
29.80
100.00
59.59
UNCLASSIFIED
SINGAPORE 9787
VZCZCGPI *
PP RUEHIA RUEHC
DE RUEHGP #9787/01 297 **
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
CLASS: UNCLASSIFIED
P 240309Z OCT 91
CHRGE: USIS 10/24/91
FM AMEMBASSY SINGAPORE
APPRV: PAO:DDDONAHUE
TO RUEHIA / USIA WASHDC PRIORITY 2221
DRFTD: PAO:DDDONAHUE
INFO RUEHC / SECSTATE WASHDC 2931
CLEAR: 1.DCM:ALKOBLER
2.E/P:LGREENWOOD
BT
DISTR: USIS DCM
UNCLAS SECTION 01 OF * SINGAPORE 09787
USIA FOR EA
E.0.12356: N/A
SUBJECT: VISIT OF PRESIDENT BUSH: LOCAL COLOR FOR SPEECH
1. FOLLOWING IS OFFERED AS LOCAL COLOR FOR
CONSIDERATION FOR INCLUSION IN PRESIDENT'S SPEECH IN
SINGAPORE:
-- AMERICA'S BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP WITH SINGAPORE GOES
BACK TO THE FOUNDATIONS OF YOUR COUNTRY, AND MINE.
-- THE FIRST AMERICAN CONSUL IN SINGAPORE CAME TO THIS
AREA IN 1834. HE WAS JOSEPH BALESTIER HE WAS
ACCOMPANIED BY HIS SPOUSE, MARIA REVERE BACESTIER
DAUGHTER OF PAUL PEVERE ONE OF THE HEROES OF THE
AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
-- MR. BALESTIER FIRST ESTABLISHED HIS OFFICE IN
BINTAN. YOU MIGHT CALL HIM ONE OF THE EARLIEST
ADHERENTS OF THE GROWTH TRIANGLE." HOWEVER, HE MOVED
TO SINGAPORE AND BECAME U.S. CONSUL IN 1837, BEGINNING A
DIPLOMATIC CONNECTION THAT HAS CONTINUED SUBSTANTIALLY
OVER THE PAST 154 YEARS.
-- INTERESTINGLY, A BALESTIER HISTORIAN TELLS US THAT
IT WAS THE CONSUL'S JOB, FIRST AND FOREMOST, TO LOOK
AFTER AMERICA'S TRADING INTERESTS. IN THAT BALESTIER
SAW HIS JOB VERY MUCH AS OUR PRESENT AMBASSADOR, BOB
ORR, DOES.
-- ALONG WITH OTHER SINGAPORE BUSINESSMEN, BALESTIER
ALSO LEARNED WHAT HAPPENS WHEN TRADE BARRIERS ARE
ERECTED. IN ADDITION TO HIS TRADING BUSINESS, HE BEGAN
A SUGAR PLANTATION ON WHAT IS NOW BALESTIER ROAD.
HOWEVER, THE BUDDING SUGAR INDUSTRY IN SINGAPORE WAS
KILLED, BALESTIER'S HISTORIAN TELLS US, BECAUSE
SINGAPORE WAS DENIED THE PRIVILEGE ACCORDED TO PROVINCE
WELLESLEY OF HAVING HER SUGAR AND RUM IMPORTED INTO THE
HOME MARKETS AT A REDUCED DUTY.
-- MODERN SINGAPORE'S DEDICATION TO FREE TRADE SEEMS
WELL-FOUNDED IN HER HISTORY.
-- I WAS PLEASED TO LEARN THAT THE BALESTIERS ARE
REMEMBERED HERE VIA A BELL CAST IN THE REVERE WORKS IN
UNCLASSIFIED
SINGAPORE 9787
UNCLASSIFIED
SINGAPORE 9787
BOSTON, WHICH WAS PRESENTED TO THE ORIGINAL CHURCH OF
ST. ANDREW BY MARIA REVERE BALESTIER. AS YOU KNOW, THAT
BELL NOW IS IN SINGAPORE'S NATIONAL MUSEUM.
3. IN VIEW OF THE FACT THAT THE PRESIDENT'S ODYSSEY
WILL END WITH PEARL HARBOR COMMEMORATIONS, HE MAY WISH
TO TAKE A MINUTE TO REMEMBER EVENTS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA,
ALSO 50 YEARS AGO:
-- ON SATURDAY I WILL BE AT PEARL HARBOR IN HAWAII TO
COMMEMORATE THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE JAPANESE ATTACK
ON OUR FORCES THERE. MORE THAN 2,400 AMERICANS WERE
DEAD OR MISSING AFTER THAT ATTACK. WE WILL REMEMBER
THEM. WE WILL HONOR THEM.
-- WE ALSO REMEMBER THAT ON THAT SAME DAY, BUT ON THIS
SIDE OF THE INTERNATIONAL DATELINE, THE WAR BEGAN FOR
THE PHILIPPINES, FOR THAILAND, FOR MALAYSIA AND
SINGAPORE. BOMBERS APPEARED OVER CLARK FIELD AND OVER
SINGAPORE. GROUND TROOPS LANDED AT SONGKHLA AND PATTANI
(THAILAND) AND AT KOTA BAHARU (MALAYA). FRENCH
INDOCHINA ALREADY WAS OCCUPIED BY THE JAPANESE AND EARLY
IN 1942, BURMA AND INDONESIA (THEN THE DUTCH EAST
INDIES) ALSO CAME UNDER ATTACK. BY MID-1942, THE REGION
WAS UNDER JAPANESE OCCUPATION, A SITUATION THAT WOULD
CONTINUE UNTIL THE JAPANESE SURRENDERED IN 1945.
-- WE IN AMERICA REMEMBER WITH YOU IN SOUTHEAST ASIA.
WE REMEMBER TO HONOR THOSE IN UNIFORM AND THOSE
THOUSANDS OF CIVILIANS WHO SUFFERED AND WHO DIED IN THIS
WAR NOT IN BITTERNESS. BUT IN SORROW. NOT IN DESPAIR
THAT SUCH A THING COULD HAPPEN, BUT IN HOPE THAT IN THE
}
HALF CENTURY SINCE THOSE ATTACKS WE SEEM TO HAVE FOUND A
BETTER WAY.
(NOTE: IN SINGAPORE IT IS IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER
CIVILIANS WHO ENDURED THE OCCUPATION --- THOSE WHO DIED
AND THOSE WHO SUFFERED AND SURVIVED.)
4. THE "GROWTH TRIANGLE" IS A DEVELOPMENT PLAN THAT
INCLUDES SINGAPORE, THE RIAU PROVINCE OF INDONESIA AND
JOHORE STATE IN MALAYSIA. THE TRIANGLE COMBINES THE
FINANCIAL/MANAGERIAL/TRANSPORTATION/COMMUNICATIONS
ASSETS OF SINGAPORE WITH THE LAND AND LOW-COST LABOR
ASSETS OF NEIGHBORING RIAU AND JOHORE FOR THE ECONOMIC
UNCLASSIFIED
SINGAPORE 9787
INCIA S SECTION 02 OF 02 SINGAPORE 09787
BENEFIT OF ALL THREE COUNTRIES. BINTAN ISLAND IS ONE OF
THE RIAU PROVINCE ISLANDS UNDER DEVELOPMENT.
0000
5. THE DATE FOR THE JAPANESE ATTACKS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA
IS DECEMBER 8. THE ATTACKS STARTED A FEW HOURS AFTER
PEARL HARBOR, BUT BECAUSE OF THE INTERNATIONAL DATELINE,
THE DATE IS ONE DAY LATER.
IIII
6. THIS MESSAGE HAS BEEN CLEARED BY THE EMBASSY.
DONAHUE
BT
0881
#9787
NNNN
UNCLAS SECTION 02 OF 02 SINGAPORE 09787
0000
1111
0000
IIII
IIII
1111
1110
The Singapore Lecture is designed 10 provide the
opportunity for distinguished statesmen, scholars
and writers, and other similarly highly qualified
individuals specializing in banking, commerce, inter-
national economics and finance, and philosophical
and world strategic affairs, to visit Singapore. The
presence of such eminent personalities will allow
Singaporeans, especially the younger executives
and decision-makers in both the public and private
2nd Singapore Lecture
sectors, 10 have the benefit of exposure to --
30 October 1981
through the Lecture, televised discussions, and
private consultations --- leaders of thought and
American Foreign Policy:
knowledge in various fields, thereby enabling them
A Global Vrew
10 widen their experience and perspectives.
by HENRY KISSINGER
The Singapore Lecture Series is organized by the
Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. The Series
was inaugurated in 1980 with a founding endow-
mem from the Monetary Authority of Singapore
(MAS), which has since been augmented with a
generous donation from Mobil Oil Singapore.
Inaugural
Singapore Lecture
14 October 1980
The Invisible Hand in
Economics and Politics
by MILTON FRIEDMAN
6th Singapore Lecture
5 December 1985
10th Singapore Lecture
15 October 1989
Deficits, Debts and
Demographics. Three
Trade Outlook:
Fundamentals
Globalization or
Affecting Our Long-term
Regionalization
Economic Future
by BRIAN MUI RONEY
by PETER G. PETERSON
9th Singapore Lecture
14 December 1988
Regionalism, Globalism
5th Singapore Lecture
and Spheres of Influence:
8 November 1984
ASEAN and the
Challenge of Change
The Future of the
into the 21st Century
Western Allrance and
by MAHATHIR BIN
hs Implications for Asia
MOHAMAD
by JOSEPH LUNS
4th Singapore Lecture
10 November 1983
8th Singapore Lecture
The Soviet Union:
27 November 1987
Challenges and
11th Singapore Lecture
Responses as Seen
3 April 1991
The Challenge of Change
from the European
NT the Asia-Pacific Region
Point of View
International Economic
by BOB HAWKE
by HELMUT SCHMIDT
Developments
by R.F.M. LUBBERS
7th Singapore Lecture
25 November 1988
3rd Singapore Lecture
2. December 1982
Trends N) the
International Financial
Peace and East-West
Relations
System
IN RAYMOND BARRE
by GISCARD D'ESTAING
AMERICAN PRESENCE IN SINGAPORE
I.
The United States Government Representation and Activities
A. The Embassy: The United States Ambassador in Singapore is
Robert D. Orr. He heads the U.S. Embassy and is responsible for its
component organizations listed below. The Embassy maintains
communication with the Government of Singapore at all levels,
reports on local developments, promotes U.S. economic and
commercial interests, protects the welfare of American citizens,
documents travelers to the United States, and maintains liaison with
other diplomatic missions. In the administrative field, the Embassy
regularly is called upon to assist with procurement in Singapore of
supplies for most of the other Embassies in the region. Singapore
also is the medical evacuation point for Indonesia. There are no U.S.
economic assistance programs in Singapore, no Peace Corps, and
no PL 480 programs. The Embassy is located at 30 Hill Street.
B. The United States Information Service offices are in the Tung
Building. The staff handles the information and cultural programs for
the Embassy, and runs the Resource Center (library), which is
located on the 15th floor of the Tung Building, Collyer Quay.
C. The Foreign Commercial Service provides export assistance,
promotion and counseling to U.S. companies wanting to develop
markets in Singapore. From their office and commercial library
located at One Colombo Court #05-12, the FCS staff produces a
broad range of in depth market research reports, organizes and hosts
trade missions and trade shows, and identifies emerging trade
opportunities with the primary goal of promoting the increased sale of
U.S. goods and services in Singapore.
D. The Agricultural Trade Office, in Liat Towers, is the U.S. Department
of Agriculture office in Singapore. It's primary objective is to promote
the exportation of U.S. foods. The office is shared with
representatives of the American Soybean Association, the U.S.
Wheat Associates, the U.S. Poultry and Egg Export Council, and the
U.S. Meat Export Federation.
E. The U.S. Refugee Office was set up to process Indo-Chinese
refugees for possible resettlement in the U.S. Now a part of the
Embassy consular section, the office has responsibility for both
Singapore and Indonesia.
F. The U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service interviews
Indo-Chinese refugees and deters illegal immigration to the United
States throughout the region. The office can also assist the American
community with foreign adoptions, petitions for foreign spouses and
inquiries on naturalization proceedings.
G. The Internal Revenue Service is the regional office for the IRS and is
available for tax consultation by the American community. It is
located in the Embassy.
H. The Department of Defense is represented in Singapore by:
1. The Defense Attache Office, located in the Embassy,
represents the U.S. Military in Singapore.
2. Detachment 1, 13th Air Force, located at Sembawang Port
and at Paya Lebar Airport. The commanding officer, Colonel
USAF, is also the U.S. Cincpac (Commander in Chief, Pacific)
representative in Singapore. The organization is responsible for
all U.S. Air Force activity on the island.
3. The U.S. Naval Regional Contracting Center, Singapore,
located in the Ong Building, 15th floor, 76 Shenton Way, is
commanded by a Captain, USN. This command is responsible
for repair, construction and overhaul of all U.S. Navy ships and
craft in Singapore, provides contracting support to other DOD
agencies in Singapore, has sole responsibility for contracting
activities in the Far East and Australasia, and provides logistical
support for the fleet in Singapore.
4. The Defense Fuel Quality Assurance Residency, Singapore,
co-located in the Ong Building, is staffed by two quality
assurance fuel specialists. The mission of this agency is to
provide quality and quantity assurance of fuel purchased by the
U.S. Military in the Pacific region.
5. The U.S. Naval Air Pacific Repair Activity Detachment,
Singapore is commanded by a Navy Commander and is part of
the U.S. Naval/Air Pacific Repair Activity headquarted in Atsugi,
Japan. The Detachment is responsible for accomplishment of
depot level maintenance, overhaul, repair and modifications to
U.S. Navy aircraft, aircraft systems and aero-components.
6. The Defense Contract Management Area Operations
Residency in Singapore is part of the Defense Department's
Defense Logistics Agency. The office is responsible for contract
management of all Defense Department contracts awarded to
Singapore contractors except for U.S. Navy contracts.
7. The U.S. Marine Security Guard Detachment protects
classified materials, government property and personnel.
Drug Enforcement Administration, located in the Embassy, maintains
close liaison with all Singaporean enforcement organizations in
gathering information and evidence about drug traffickers and is
active in on-site training and U.S. training for selected Singaporean
enforcement officers.
J. Agency for International Development consists of the Regional
Inspector General's Office located in the Hong Leong Building. This
office has two functions: one for Audit and one for Investigations.
K. Federal Aviation Administration is located in the Embassy.
It serves to promote the development of international civil aviation in
Southeast Asia.
L. United States Customs Service is an enforcement office responsible
for conducting and coordinating Customs investigations on a wide
variety of case categories. Its second function is as an advisory
service to tourists, etc. The office is on the first floor of the Embassy.
II. Private American Representation: Singapore has an active American
community which currently numbers over 7,000 U.S. citizens, including
dependents. Principally, they represent U.S. business, religious and
educational organizations. Also included are a large number of
dependent families of U.S. citizens working in Indonesia. The community
has developed several organizations to advance its collective interests:
A. The American Association, founded in 1917, has been the prime
mover in originating many other American organizations and
continues to coordinate their activities. The American Asociation
publishes "Living In Singapore", the Singapore American Newspaper
and organizes several American national holiday activities such as
the George Washington Ball, Fourth of July picnic, and various
recreational activities.
B. The American Business Council serves much the same function as
an American Chamber of Commerce. It holds periodic functions
featuring speakers on topics of current interest, and maintains an
office and reference library at #16-07 Shaw Center. There are
approximately 800 American firms represented in Singapore.
C. The American Women's Association is the organization of the
American women in the community. It is a part of the American
Association but functions separately. The AWA undertakes many
charitable projects, welcomes newcomers to the community, and
maintains a schedule of tours, classes and social functions. There
are more than 1300 members, both American and non-American.
D. The Singapore American School is a private institution which
provides educational facilities from preschool through high school on
American standards for American children. The school currently has
about 2000 students.
E. The Singapore American Community Action Council (SACAC) was
set up by the American community to deal with social problems
encountered by Americans living in Singapore, particularly young
people. Sports, counselling and referral services, student
employment programs, drama groups, etc. are available through
SACAC.
F. The Singapore American Newspaper, published monthly, is
supported entirely by advertisers, produced by a staff of volunteer
Americans and mailed free of charge to all American residents
requesting copies. The newspaper tells of happenings in the
community and provides news of the American school and of the
American Women's Association, as well as giving information about
local culture, sports and other activities in the American community.
7
Singapore
329
330
Introduction
331
Introduction
dia, there are also Muslims from South India and, in smaller
by Nigel Fisher
numbers, Bengalis, Biharis, Gujeratis, Marathis, Kashmiris,
As you are efficiently processed through Changi International
and Punjabis. From Sri Lanka come other Hindu Tamils and
Nigel Fisher is the
Airport, then whisked away in a taxi or air-conditioned coach
the Sinhalese (often mistaken for Indians), who are neither
editor of the
along a park-lined expressway to your high-rise hotel, don't let
Hindu nor Muslim but follow the teachings of Hinayana Bud-
monthly travel
first impressions lead you to write Singapore off as just another
dhism.
publication
modern international city. Though it may no longer be the rich-
Voyager
ly exotic and romantic city so vividly documented by Conrad
Today, Indians, who account for 7% of Singapore's population,
International. He
and Kipling, Singapore is yet a unique city where the flavor,
remain deeply tied to their community and traditional customs.
has traveled
spirituality, and gentle manners of the East peacefully co-exist
Hinduism remains a powerful force-Singapore has more than
extensively
with the comforts, conveniences, and efficiency of the West.
20 major temples devoted to Hindu gods-and some of the
throughout Asia
Here you'll find some of the world's most luxurious hotels, of-
Tamil Hindu festivals, such as Thaipusam, are expressed with
and the world.
fering incomparable service and all the amenities, from fitness
more feverish ritualism than in India. Indian food, too, remains
true to its roots; it has been said that one can eat better curries
centers with computer-monitored exercise equipment to thick
in Singapore than in India.
terry-cloth bathrobes. On Orchard Road, smartly dressed
shoppers browse among glittering shop windows before head-
While the Malays, Chinese, and Indians account for 97% of
ing into the dozens of huge side-by-side shopping complexes,
Singapore's population, other ethnic groups-from Eurasians
jam-packed with boutiques carrying the latest Paris fashions
to Filipinos, from Armenians to Thais-contribute significant-
or Japanese electronics at irresistible prices. And in elegant
ly to the nation's cultural mix. Understandably, the British and
French restaurants, with gleaming silver and crystal and elab-
the heritage of their colonial stay is profoundly felt even though
orate displays of orchids and roses, tuxedoed waiters serve
Singapore became an independent nation in 1967.
some of the best cuisine this side of the Seine.
In a part of the world where histories tend to be ancient and
Here you'll also find ethnic neighborhoods, built up around
rich, Singapore is unique in having almost no history at all.
mosques and temples, where Chinese or Indian or Malay mer-
Modern Singapore tends to date its history from the early
chants dressed in traditional garb hawk the herbal medicines or
morning of January 29, 1819, when a representative of the Brit-
spices or batiks that spill out of their small shops onto the nar-
ish East India Company, Thomas Stamford Raffles, stepped
row streets. At the many food centers that dot the city,
ashore at Singa Pura (Sanskrit for "lion city"), as the island was
Teochew and Hokkien, Tamil and Malay cooks in adjacent open-
then called, hoping to establish a British trading settlement on
front stalls whip up authentic and delicious dishes whose reci-
the southern part of the Malay Peninsula. The two sons of the
pes have been handed down in their families for generations.
previous sultan, who had died six years earlier, were in dispute
To arrive in Singapore is to step into a world where the muezzin
over who would inherit the throne. Raffles backed the claim of
call to prayer competes with the bustle of capitalism; where old
the elder brother, Tunku Hussein Mohamed Shah, and pro-
men play mah-jongg in the streets and white-clad bowlers send
claimed him sultan. Offering to support the new sultanate with
the ball flying down well-tended cricket pitches; where Chi-
British military strength, Raffles persuaded him to grant the
nese fortune tellers and high-priced management consultants
British a lease allowing them to establish a trading post on the
advise the same entrepreneur.
island in return for an annual rent; within a week the negotia-
This great diversity of lifestyles, cultures, and religions
tions were concluded. (A later treaty ceded the island outright
to the British.)
thrives within the framework of a well-ordered society. Singa-
pore is a spotlessly clean-some say sterile-modern metropo-
Thus began the continual rapid changing and adapting that
lis, surrounded by green, groomed parks and populated by 2.7
characterizes Singapore to this day: Within three years, the
million extremely polite, well-mannered people.
small fishing village, surrounded by swamps and jungle and
Malays, who have the oldest historical claim to Singapore, to-
populated by only tigers and 200 or 80 Malays, had become a
day account for 14.9% of its population. Their faith in Allah and
boomtown of 10,000 immigrants, administered by 74 British
their orientation to family and service to the community pro-
employees of the East India Company.
vide a more relaxed, peaceful, and communal flavor and act as a
As Singapore grew, the British erected splendid public build-
counterpoint to the entrepreneurial vigor of the Chinese.
ings, churches, and hotels, often using Indian convicts for la-
Though the Chinese make up approximately 76% of the popula-
bor. The Muslim, Hindu, Taoist, and Buddhist communities-
tion, their ranks comprise at least half a dozen different ethnic
swelling rapidly from the influx of fortune-seeking settlers
groups-Hokkien, Teochew, Cantonese, Hakka, Fukien,
from Malaya, India, and South China-built mosques, tem-
Hainanese-each with its own language, mythology, and espe-
ples, and shrines. Magnificent houses for wealthy merchants
cially cuisine. They came as impoverished immigrants in the
sprang up, and the harbor became lined with godowns (ware-
19th century and now hold the economic and political strings of
houses) to hold all the goods passing through the port.
the island nation.
It was certainly an exotic trade that poured through Singa-
Singapore's Indian population, who also descend from 19th-
pore. Chinese junks came loaded with tea, porcelain, silks, and
century immigrants, are almost as ethnically diverse as the
artworks; Bugis (Indonesian) schooners carried in cargos of
Chinese. While the majority are Hindu Tamils from South In-
precious spices, rare tropical hardwoods, camphor, and pro-
duce from all parts of Indonesia. These goods, and more like
Singapore
334
them from Siam, the Philippines, and elsewhere in the region,
were traded in Singapore for manufactured textiles, coal, iron,
cement, weapons, and machinery and other fruits of Europe's
industrial revolution. Another major product traded here by
the British was opium, grown in India and sold to mainland
China.
By the turn of the century, Singapore had become the entrepot
of the East, a mixture of adventurers and "respectable middle
classes." World War I hardly touched the island, although its
defenses were strengthened to support the needs of the British
navy, for which Singapore was an important base. When World
War II broke out, the British were complacent about the im-
pregnability of Singapore, expecting that any attack would
come from the sea and that they were well prepared to meet
such an attack. But the Japanese landed to the north, in Ma-
laya. The two British battleships that had been posted to Sin-
gapore were sunk, and the Japanese land forces raced down the
peninsula on bicycles.
In February 1942 the Japanese captured Singapore. Huge
numbers of Allied civilians and military were sent to Changi
Prison; others were marched off to prison camps in Malaya or to
work on the notorious "Death Railway" in Thailand. The 3½
years of occupation was a time of privation and fear for the civil-
ian population; up to 100,000 deaths are estimated during this
period. The Japanese surrendered on August 21, 1945, and the
Allied military forces returned to Singapore. However, the se-
curity of the British Empire was never again to be felt, and in-
dependence for British Southeast Asia was only a matter of
time.
In 1957 the British government agreed to the establishment of
an elected 51-member legislative assembly in Singapore. Gen-
eral elections in 1959 gave an overwhelming majority-43 of 51
seats-to the People's Action Party (PAP), and a young Chi-
nese lawyer named Lee Kuan Yew became Singapore's first
prime minister. In 1963 Singapore became part of the Federa-
tion of Malaysia, along with the newly independent state of Ma-
laysia.
Mainly due to Malays' anxiety over a possible takeover by the
ethnic Chinese, the federation broke up two years later and
Singapore became an independent sovereign state. The electo-
rate has remained faithful to Lee Kuan Yew and the PAP. To-
day there is only one opposition member in Parliament,
though, at the last election, the PAP's popular majority was the
lowest it has ever been. Singaporeans don't necessarily like the
fact that Lee Kuan Yew's will substantially decides their fu-
ture, but they recognize that it is largely as a result of his firm
control and acumen that Singapore is a safe, clean, comfort-
able, prosperous nation. Lee Kuan Yew promises to resign at
the end of 1990, after 31 years in office. Because his son is un-
able to immediately step into his shoes, however, Yew will re-
main influential in government as a senior minister.
Singapore
340
Staying in Singapore
341
lic transportation system that provides easy, low-cost access
Mid-Jan. During Ponggal, the four-day harvest festival, Tamil Indians
around the city of Singapore and the island.
from South India offer rice, curries, vegetables, sugarcane,
Taxes There is no sales tax in Singapore. A 4% government tax is
and spices in thanksgiving to the Hindu gods. In the evening,
added to restaurant and hotel bills; sometimes a 10% service
the celebration takes place at the temples, where rice is cooked
charge is added as well. There is a S$12 airport departure tax
while prayers are chanted to the music of bells, drums, clari-
(for travelers to Malaysia, the tax is S$5). It is payable at the
nets, and conch shells. The Perumal Temple of Serangoon Road
airport. To save time and avoid standing in line, you can buy a
is the best place to view these rites.
tax voucher at your hotel or any airline office.
Mid-Jan.-Feb. Thaipusam, probably the most spectacular-and certainly the
Sample Prices Cup of coffee, 50c; large bottle of beer, $2; lunch at a hawker
most gruesome-festival in Asia, celebrates the victory of the
stand, $5; dinner at an elegant restaurant, $25; full breakfast at
Hindu god Subramaniam over the demon Idumban. After
a luxury hotel, $9. The cost of a standard double room: moder-
night-long ritual purification and chanting, penitents enter a
ate, $75-$115; very expensive, over $150.
trance and pierce their flesh with knives, steel rods, and fish
hooks, which they wear during the procession. The 8.1-km (5-
Language
mi) procession begins at the Perumal Temple on Serangoon
Road, passes the Sri Mariamman Temple on South Bridge
Singapore is a multiracial society with four official languages:
Road, and ends at the Chettiar Temple.
Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, and English. The national language is
Malay; the lingua franca is English. English, also the language
Chinese New Year is the only time the Chinese stop working.
of administration, is a required course for every schoolchild,
The lunar New Year celebration lasts for 15 days, and most
and is used in the entrance examinations for universities.
shops and businesses close for about a week.
Hence, virtually all Singaporeans speak English with varying
Feb. The end of the Chinese New Year is marked by the Chingay
degrees of fluency. Mandarin is increasingly replacing the
Procession. Chinese, Malays, and Indians all get into the act for
other Chinese dialects. However, many Chinese will use
this event. Clashing gongs and beating drums, lion dancers
SinEnglish, a Singaporean version of English, to converse with
lead a procession of Chinese stilt-walkers, swordsmen, warri-
other ethnic groups, including other Chinese.
ors, acrobats, and characters from Chinese myth and legend.
Opening and Closing Times
Feb. or Mar. The Birthday of the Monkey God celebrates this character
greatly loved by the Chinese. His birth is marked with a festi-
Businesses are generally open weekdays 9 or 9:30 to 5 or 5:30;
val twice a year in Chinese temples-once in the spring and
some, not many, are also open on Saturday mornings.
again around September. Mediums; with skewers piercing
their cheeks and tongues, go into trances. Chinese street oper-
Banks Banking hours are weekdays 10-3, Saturday 9:30-11:30 AM.
as and puppet shows are usually performed in temple court-
Branches of the Development Bank of Singapore stay open un-
yards, and processions are held at the temples along Eng Hoon
til 3 PM on Saturday. The bank at Changi airport is open whenev-
and Cumming streets.
er there are flights. Money-changers operate whenever there are
customers in the shopping centers they serve.
Apr.-May
Ramadan is the month of daytime fasting among the city's Mus-
lim population. Food stalls in Bussorah Street and around the
Museums Many museums close on Monday; otherwise, they are generally
Sultan Mosque sell a variety of dishes at the end of the day's
open 9-5.
fast.
Shops Shop opening times vary. Department stores and many shops
May or June The Birthday of the Third Prince celebrates this child god. The
in big shopping centers are generally open seven days a week
Chinese worship him as a hero and a miracle-worker. A temple
from about 10 to 8 (later some evenings). Smaller shops tend to
in his honor is located at the junction of Clarke Street and
close on Sundays, although there is no firm rule now that com-
North Boat Quay, near Chinatown; on his birthday, it is
petition is so intense.
crowded with noisy worshipers who come to watch the flashy
Chinese operas, which begin around noon.
National Holidays
Vesak Day commemorates the Buddha's birth, Enlightenment,
The following are national holidays: Jan. 1 (New Year's Day);
and death. It is the most sacred annual festival in the Buddhist
Jan. 27, 28 (Chinese New Year); Good Friday (Apr. 13); Hani
calendar. Throughout the day, starting before dawn, saffron-
Raya Puasa (Apr. 26); Labor Day (May 1); Vesak Day (May 9);
robed monks chant holy sutras in all the major Buddhist tem-
Hari Raya Haji (July 3); National Day (Aug. 9); Dee'pavali
ples. Captive birds are set free. Candlelight processions are
(Oct. 7); Dec. 24
held around some of the temples in the evening.
Festivals and Seasonal Events
June The Dragon Boat Festival commemorates the martyrdom of Qu
Yuan, a Chinese poet and minister of state during the Chou dy-
Singapore is a city of festivals, from the truly exotic to the
nasty (4th century BC), who was exiled for speaking out against
strictly-for-tourists. The exact dates vary from year to year ac-
court corruption and finally threw himself into the river. On see-
cording to the lunar or Islamic calendar.
ing Qu Yuan's final and desperate act, local fishermen thrashed
the water with their oars and beat drums to prevent fish from de-
vouring their drowning hero. The anniversary of his death is cele-
Singapore
342
brated with a regatta of boats decorated with dragon heads and
painted in brilliant colors.
July During the Birdsong Festival, owners of tuneful birds hold com-
petitions to see whose chirps best.
Aug. 9 National Day, the anniversary of the nation's independence, is
a day of processions, fireworks, folk and dragon dances, and na-
tional pride. The finest view is from the Padang, where the
main participants put on their best show. Tickets for special
seating areas are available through the STPB.
Aug.-Sept. For a month each year, during the Chinese Festival of the Hun-
gry Ghosts, the Gates of Hell are opened and ghosts are free to
wander the Earth. The unhappy ghosts, those who died with-
out descendants, may cause trouble and must therefore be pla-
cated with offerings. Imitation money ("Hell money") and joss
sticks are burned, and prayers are said at all Chinese temples
and in front of Chinese shops and homes. Chinese-opera
(wayang) performances are held on open-air stages set up in
the streets.
Sept. The Mooncake Festival, a traditional Chinese celebration, is
held on the night of the year when the full moon is thought to be
at its brightest. The Chinese have nighttime picnics and carry
lanterns through the streets. Mooncakes-sweet pastries
filled with red-bean paste, lotus seeds, nuts, and egg
yolks-are eaten in abundance.
Sept.-Oct. During the nine-day Navarathri Festival, Hindus pay homage to
three goddesses: Parvati, consort of Shiva the Destroyer;
Lakshmi, goddess of wealth and consort of Vishnu the Protec-
tor; and Sarawathi, goddess of education and consort of Brah-
ma the Creator. On all nights, at the Chettiar Temple on Tank
Road, there are performances of classical Indian music, drama,
and dancing from 7 to 10. On the last evening, the image of a
silver horse is taken from its home in the Chettiar Temple and
paraded around the streets.
Oct. The Chinese believe that the deities celebrated in the Festival
of the Nine Emperor Gods can cure illness, bring good luck and
wealth, and encourage longevity. They are honored in most
Chinese temples on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month; the
celebrations are at their most spectacular in the temples on Up-
per Serangoon Road and at Lorong Tai Seng.
Oct.-Nov. In the Thimithi Festival, Indian Hindus honor the goddess
Duropadai by walking on fire. According to myth, Duropadai
proved her chastity by walking over flaming coals. Today wor-
shipers repeat her feat by walking barefoot over a bed of red-
hot embers. See the spectacle at the Sri Mariamman Temple on
South Bridge Road.
Deepavali celebrates the triumph of Krishna over the demon
king Nasakasura. All Indian homes and temples are decorated
with oil lamps and garlands. In Little India the streets are bril-
liantly illuminated.
Nov. Merlion Week is Singapore's version of Carnival, with food
fairs, fashion shows, masquerade balls, and fireworks displays.
Brochures of the activities are available in every hotel.
Nov.-Dec. Being a multiracial society, Singapore has taken Christmas to
its commercial heart. All the shops are deep in artificial snow,
2
103°45'
104°00
Peninsulai
Malaysia
Johor
Baharu.
Sungai Johor
Kampong
Tanjong Seindet
1°30
1°30'
Masai
Senoko
Causeway
Naval Base
Strait
Kampong
Woodlands
Sembawand
Kranji
Bukit Mandai
Punggol
oho
Pulau
Pulau
Kangkar
Johore
Village
Tekong
Pendas
Ubin
Besar
Nee Soon
Strai
Bukit Panjang
Changi
Serangoon
Choa
Chu Kang
Singapore Island
International
Kampong Baharu
Airport
Yan/Kit
Bukit
Timan
Village
Too/Payon
Jurding
Bedok
Tuas
Queenstown
*
Pasir
Singapore
Panjang
Pulau
300
Village
Ayer Chawam
St r. a 1 t
Keppel
Harbour
Pulau Brani
e
1°15'
O.
Pulau
Sentosa
0
Bukum
n.g.
Pulau
Semakau
Pulau
Senang
Strait
Singapore
Main
a
Sekupang
Railroad
O
Road
PO
Pulau Batam
Scale 1:345,000
Indonesia
0
5
10 Kilometers
0
5
10 Miles
Sagulung
Names and boundary representation
are not necessarily authoritative
183.45
3104°00'
located in Southeast Asia
tip of the Malay
separated from
the Strait of Johore, which
traversed by by a 1.2-kilometer (3/4-mi.)
earrying a road and a
The Singapore Strait sepa-
the country from Indonesia.
Signapore is a focal point for Southeast
Asian sea routes. Its total land area
includes one large island and about 55
nearby islets. The diamond-shaped
main island is 41 kilometers (26 mi.) at
its broadest from east to west, and 22
kilometers (14 mi.) from north to south.
Much of Singapore is lowland and
originally consisted of swamp and
jungle. Now mainly urban and indus-
trialized, its geographical features are
small in scale-the highest point on the
main island, Bukit Timah (Hill of Tin),
is only 177 meters (581 ft.) above sea
level; the longest river is 14 kilometers
(9 mi.) long. A central plateau of about
31 square kilometers (12 sq. mi.)
contains a water catchment area and
nature preserve. The main urban area
lies on the southern part of the island,
primarily on land reclaimed from
swamp and sea.
Singapore's climate is character-
ized by warm temperatures, high
humidity, and copious rainfall. Virtu-
ally no seasonal temperature variation
exists. The average maximum tem-
perature is 31 °C (88 °F); the average
rainfall is 158 centimeters (62 in.).
Singapore has no pronounced wet or
dry seasons.
PEOPLE
Singapore's modern skyline.
With a population density of 4,231
persons per square kilometer (10,961
per sq. mi.), Singapore is one of the
English, and Tamil also are official
technic. The practical engineering-
most densely populated countries in
languages. English is widely used in
oriented Nanyang Technological
the world. The annual growth rate has
professions, businesses, and schools.
Institute, founded in 1981, now has
fallen, however, from 2.5% in 1965 to
The government mandated that
3,940 students. The overall literacy
1.3% in 1988. Health standards are
English would be the primary language
rate is 87% and is more than 90% for
high for the region, with about 1
used at all levels of the school systems
Singaporeans under 35.
physician for every 837 people (US has
by 1987, and aims to provide at least 10
Singapore has religious freedom.
about 1 to 700).
years of education for every child.
Almost all Malays are Muslim; other
Singapore has a varied linguistic,
Primary and secondary school students
Singaporeans are Hindus, Sikhs,
cultural, and religious heritage. Malay
total almost 470,000, or nearly 18% of
Taoists, Buddhists, Confucianists, and
is the national language, but Chinese,
the entire population. Enrollment at
Christians.
the National University of Singapore is
14,972 and 13,753 at Singapore Poly-
3
second largest in the world in terms of
parliament after any general election in
annual tonnage.
which less than three opposition
In 1921, the British constructed a
candidates are elected. Nonconstituent
naval base, which was soon supple-
members may debate but may not vote
mented by an air base. The Japanese
on constitutional amendments or on
captured the island in February 1942,
bills requiring the expenditure of
however, and it remained under their
funds. After the last general election
control until September 1945, when it
(September 1988), two members were
was recaptured by the British.
named, one of whom subsequently was
In 1946, Penang and Malacca were
disqualified. The maximum term of
united in a single British Crown Colony
called the Federation of Malaya;
any one parliament is 5 years. Voting
has been compulsory since 1959.
Singapore remained a separate colony.
Judicial power is vested in the
In 1959, Singapore became self-
High Court and Court of Appeal. The
governing, and, in 1963, it joined the
High Court exercises original criminal
now-independent Federation of
and civil jurisdiction in serious cases as
Malaya, Sabah, and Sarawak (the latter
well as appellate jurisdiction from
two former British Borneo territories)
subordinate courts. Its chief justice,
to form Malaysia.
senior judge, and six judges are
Indonesia adopted a policy of
appointed by the president. Appeals
"confrontation" against the new
from the High Court are heard by the
federation, charging that it was a
Court of Appeal. Further appeal can
"British colonial creation," and severed
be made in certain cases to the Judicial
A blacksmith for 45 years.
trade with Malaysia. The move
Committee of the Privy Council at
particularly affected Singapore, since
London.
Indonesia had been the island's second
HISTORY
largest trading partner. The political
dispute was resolved in 1966, and
Principal Government Officials
Although Singapore's history dates
Indonesia resumed trade with Sin-
President-WEE Kim Wee
from the 11th century, little was known
gapore.
Prime Minister-LEE Kuan Yew
about the island until the 19th century,
After a period of friction between
First Deputy Prime Minister-GOH
when in 1819, Sir Thomas Stamford
Singapore and the central government
Chok Tong
Raffles arrived as an agent of the
in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore separated
Second Deputy Prime Minister-ONG
British East India Company. In 1824,
from Malaysia on August 9, 1965, and
Teng Cheong
the British purchased Singapore
became an independent republic.
Ministers
Island, and by 1825, the city of Sin-
Communications and Information-
gapore had become a major port, with
GOVERNMENT
YEO Ning Hong
trade exceeding that of Malaya's
Community Development-WONG
Malacca and Penang combined. In
According to the constitution, as
Kan Seng
1830, Singapore, Penang, and Malacca
amended in 1965, Singapore is a
Defense-GOH Chok Tong
were combined as the Straits Settle-
republic with a parliamentary system
Education-Tony TAN
ments to form an outlying residency of
of government. The president, the
Environment-Ahmad MATTAR
the British East India Company; in
ceremonial chief of state, is elected
Finance-Richard HU Tsu Tau
1867, the Straits Settlements were
every 4 years by parliament. Political
Foreign Affairs-WONG Kan Seng
made a British Crown Colony, an
authority rests with the prime minister
Health (Acting)-YEO Cheow Tong
arrangement that continued until 1946.
and the cabinet. The prime minister is
Home Affairs-S. JAYAKUMAR
The opening of the Suez Canal in
the leader of the political party or
Labor-LEEYock San
1869 and the advent of steamships
coalition of parties having the majority
Law-S. JAYAKUMAR
launched an era of prosperity for
of seats in parliament.
National Development-S. DHANA-
Singapore as transit trade expanded
The unicameral parliament
BALAN
throughout Southeast Asia. In the
consists of 81 members (80 of whom are
Trade and Industry-LEE Hsien
20th century, the automobile industry's
from the governing People's Action
Loong
demand for rubber from Southeast
Party-PAP) elected on the basis of
Asia and the packaging industry's need
Ambassador to the United Nations—
universal adult suffrage. Up to 3
for tin helped make Singapore one of
CHAN Heng Chee
opposition candidates are invited to
the world's major ports. It is now
Ambassador to the United States—
become nonconstituent members of
Tommy KOH Thong Bee
4
rapore maintains an embassy
the economy steadily recovered and
related industries worldwide, a
the United States at 1824 R
registered an impressive 11% GDP
shakeout in the US electronics market,
NW., Washington, D.C. 20009
growth rate in 1988. The 1988 per
and worsening economic conditions in
Street 302-667-7555).
capita income; $8,782, is the third
Malaysia and Indonesia. The net result
highest in Asia after Japan and Brunei.
was Singapore's first recession after 21
At the end of 1988, official foreign
years of sustained growth. Real GDP
POLITICAL CONDITIONS
exchange reserves stood at $16.6
growth plummeted to -1.6% in 1985,
billion.
began to show the first signs of
The ruling political party in Singapore
Singapore began as an entrepot
recovery in mid-1986, and has been
(in power since 1959) is the People's
(warehousing and transshipment)
Action Party (PAP), headed by Prime
remarkably buoyant since.
center for the region but began to
Minister Lee Kuan Yew. In the 1963
Singapore continues to upgrade
industrialize and modernize its infra-
worker skills and to search for new
general elections, the PAP won 37 of
structure after independence. The
the 51 seats in parliament. In October
products and markets to drive its
marine and oil services and processing
1966, the opposition Barisan Sosialis
export-led economy. One major effort
industries were among the leaders in
Party (Socialist Front), a left-wing
is to become a complete business
the important manufacturing sector.
group that split off from the PAP in
center, offering multinationals a
1961, resigned from parliament, leaving
The late 1970s and early 1980s brought
manufacturing base, a developed
the PAP as the sole representative
an increasing emphasis on high tech-
financial infrastructure, and excellent
party. In the April 1968 general
nology high-value-added goods and
communications to service regional and
elections, the PAP won all 58 seats-51
services, which made Singapore an
world markets.
without opposition.
electronics and regional banking
In the general elections of 1972,
center. Government policy, aimed at
1976, and 1980, the PAP won all of the
providing modern housing for most of
Trade
seats in an expanding parliament. In
the population by 1990, spurred public
In the past, about two-thirds of Sin-
an October 1981 by-election, the PAP
and private building, creating a
gapore's imports and exports consisted
lost a seat to the Workers' Party
construction and property boom in the
of entrepot trade. With rapid industri-
Secretary General J.B. Jeyaretnam,
early 1980s.
alization, however, the relative impor-
the first time an oppositon party had
However, by 1984, the govern-
tance of this sector has declined. The
ment's accelerated construction
won a seat since 1963.
trade pattern reflects a shift toward
In the 1984 elections, the PAP
program was nearly concluded, and
importing capital goods and raw
polled 62.9% of the popular vote, a 12%
there was a massive oversupply of new
materials for industry and exporting
drop from 1980 returns, and lost a
buildings. Property values tumbled.
locally manufactured products.
second seat. In 1988, the PAP polled
At the same time, there was a near-
In 1988, the United States was
61.9% of the popular vote to win 80 of
collapse of marine and petroleum-
Singapore's largest trading partner.
81 seats.
Following the 1988 elections,
Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew indi-
cated that in 1990 he would retire as
head of government but not from
RAHMATH TRADING LORPORATION
politics. First Deputy Prime Minister
DEALERS
HANDICRAFT
MATS
CARRETS
ETC
NO 22 24 26 ARAD STREET
184702
SINGAPORE
Goh Chok Tong has been designated to
assume the office of prime minister as
part of a transition process to a new
generation of political leaders.
ECONOMY
Singapore's strategic location and
industrious population have given the
country an economic importance in
Southeast Asia out of proportion to its
small size. Following independence, its
economy expanded rapidly. Average
annual growth in gross domestic
product (GDP) during the 1970s was
close to 10%, and for 1980-84 it was
8.5% Following a recession in 1985-86,
5
Major exports to the United States
with Singapore but provides no other
tion policy. The Development Bank of
consisted of crude rubber, electronic
bilateral aid.
Singapore was responsible for indus-
equipment, electrical machinery, and
trial financing. The Jurong Town
textile products; major imports from
Industry
Corporation was charged with develop-
the United States were machinery and
ing industrial estates. Its major
other manufactured products.
The government's development policy
achievement, the Jurong Industrial
from independence has emphasized
Estate, is a government-planned
US Investment and Assistance
industrialization. Separation from
satellite community devoted to manu-
Malaysia removed any semblance of a
facturing, which had more than 1,400
The United States is the largest source
large domestic market, leading
factories in production in the early
of foreign investment in Singapore,
naturally to emphasis on manufactur-
1980s and many others in various
with more than one-third of all private
ing for export. To support this policy,
stages of completion. The govern-
foreign investment and a quarter of
the government introduced new and
ment's Economic Development Board
total investment. US private invest-
remarkably successful financial incen-
has organized a massive program to
ment played a leading role in Sin-
tives for export-oriented industry and
promote foreign investment in Sin-
gapore's rapid economic expansion,
provided efficient infrastructure for
gapore and has set up a network of
particularly in general manufacturing,
manufacturing. Singapore opened its
offices in Europe, Japan, and the
electronics, and in modernizing re-
economy and has pursued a vigorous
United States (in New York, Los
gional distribution facilities. US
free-trade policy ever since. Labor
Angeles, Boston, Chicago, and
activities also include oil refining,
legislation enacted in 1968 reduced
Houston).
shipping, banking, hotels, insurance,
labor unrest and gave employers more
These efforts resulted in a dra-
and importing and exporting. The
flexibility in hiring and firing. By the
matic increase in the level of foreign
resident US business community,
early 1980s, Singapore had become a
and local investment. From 1962 to
including dependents, was estimated at
relatively high wage locale by Asian
1974, the manufacturing sector grew an
about 5,000 in late 1988. Total US
standards, but the government moved
average of 20% per year and registered
investment in Singapore at the end of
in 1985 to restrain wage increases and
an annual average increase of more
1988 stood at $3 billion, with invest-
reduce other costs with a view to
than 10% through 1981. After a pause
ment flows continuing at a brisk pace.
making Singapore more competitive.
in 1982, growth resumed in 1983.
The United States has a small
Several institutions played a key
Manufacturing increased as a percent-
military training assistance program
role in carrying out the industrializa-
age of total economic activity from 17%
in 1960 to 29% in 1988. Extensive
petroleum refining operations make
that industry-in terms of total value
of production-the largest in Sin-
gapore. It is closely followed by
electronics, transportation equipment
and marine services-including ship
repair-textiles, electrical machinery,
and food industries. The manufactur-
ing sector contracted because of the
recession, but the prospects for high-
tech manufacturing are still bright.
Construction was the cutting edge
of the economy in the early 1980s,
providing as much as 30% of total
growth. Although the frenzied pace of
construction in that period left a
massive surplus of offices, hotels, and
warehouses, the program also resulted
in modern housing for most Singapore-
ans and an up-to-date system of ports,
airports, and roads. Construction of a
66.8-kilometer (41.5-mi.) rapid transit
system is underway. The first stage
was completed in December 1987.
6
Agriculture
Singapore's limited agrarian land is
Further.Information
devoted primarily to intensive cultiva-
tion of vegetables, some poultry and
These titles are provided as a general indication of material published on this country.
pork, and other food crops. Although
The Department of State does not endorse unofficial publications.
rice is a dietary staple, it is not grown
domestically. All the island's other
Bedlington, Stanley S. Malaysia and
and Future. Singapore: Eastern Uni-
food requirements are imported.
Singapore: The Building of New
versities Press, 1979.
Singapore is a major exporter of
States. Ithaca: Cornell University
Lim, Chong Yah. Policy Options for the
orchids and tropical fish.
Press, 1978.
Singapore Economy. Singapore:
Bloodworth, Dennis. The Tiger and the
McGraw-Hill Book Co., 1988
Trojan Horse. Singapore: Times
Nair, C. Devan, ed. Socialism That
Books International, 1986.
Works. The Singapore Way.
Labor
Chan Heng Chee. The Dynamics of One
Singapore: Federal Publications,
Singapore has a work force of about 1.3
Party Dominance: The PAP at the
1976.
million. The National Trades Union
Grass Roots. Singapore: Singapore
Singapore Year Book. Singapore:
Congress, the sole trade union federa-
University Press, 1976.
Government Publications Bureau.
tion, has 209,000 members or about
George, T.J.S. Lee Kuan Yew's Sin-
Available from the Superintendent of
98% of total organized labor. Exten-
gapore. Great Britain: Andre Deutsh
Documents, US Government Printing
Limited, 1978.
sive legislation covers general labor
Office, Washington, DC 20402:
Goh Keng Swee. The Practice of
and trade union matters. The Indus-
Economic Growth. Singapore:
American University. Area Handbook for
rial Arbitration Court handles labor-
Federal Publications, 1977.
Singapore. 1977.
management disputes. In recent years,
Hassan, Riaz, ed. Singapore: Society in
US Department of Commerce. Foreign
few incidents have occurred to ruffle
Transition. Kuala Lumpur: Oxford
Economic Trends-Singapore.
he generally harmonious state of
University Press, 1976.
International Marketing Information
Josey, Alex. Singapore: Its Past, Present
Series: Semiannual.
abor-management relations.
Singapore enjoyed virtually full
mployment in the early 1980s with an
memployment rate of only 3%. The
985 recession drove the jobless figure
government-owned and operated.
3,500 navy, and 6,000 air force person-
nel. Reserve forces total about
0 more than 6% in mid-1986, but with
Privately owned daily newspapers are
he recovery, it dropped back to 3.3%
published in English, Chinese, and
200,000. Singapore is a member of the
1 mid-1988. Spot labor shortages
Malay.
Five Power Defense Arrangement-
ersist, however, in some growth
United Kingdom, Australia, New
Zealand, and Malaysia. Designed to
reas, such as electronics and in
FOREIGN RELATIONS
dustries, such as construction, where
replace the former defense role of the
British in the Singapore-Malaysia area,
reign workers predominate.
Singapore is nonaligned and seeks
the arrangement obligates members to
cordial relations with all nations. As a
consult in the event of external threat
ransportation and Communications
small country heavily dependent on
and provides for stationing Common-
world trade, it has a special interest in
wealth forces in Singapore.
tuated at the crossroads of interna-
maintaining wide international con-
onal shipping and air routes, Sin-
tacts. It is a member of the Common-
apore is a center for transportation
wealth and also the United Nations and
US-SINGAPORE RELATIONS
d communication in Southeast Asia.
several of its specialized and related
e world's second most active port
agencies. Singapore supports the
The United States has maintained
ter Rotterdam), Singapore handled
concept of Southeast Asian regionalism
formal diplomatic relations with
3 million tons of cargo in 1988.
and plays an active role in the Associa-
Singapore since that country became
igapore is a regional aviation hub
tion of South East Asian Nations,
independent in 1965. Singapore's
rved by 50 international airlines.
founded in 1967.
efforts to maintain economic growth
angi International Airport, opened
and political stability and its support
1980, is being expanded. The
for regional cooperation harmonize
untry also is linked by road and rail
DEFENSE
with US policy in the region and form a
Malaysia and Thailand.
solid basis for amicable relations
Telecommunications and telephone
Singapore relies primarily on its own
between the two countries. The
ilities are modern and comprehen-
defense forces, which are continuously
growth of US investment in Singapore
e, providing high-quality communi-
being modernized. The Singapore
and the large number of Americans
ions with the rest of the world.
armed forces comprises 50,000 army,
living there enhance opportunities for
dio and television stations are
contact between Singapore and the
7
However, Sind became was
I linguistically, as well
British. It was administered
province. sidency until 1937, when it
'ften referred to as a "caul-
d has experienced an ex-
of populations since the
At least 16 distinct types
their mark on the region,
F cultures, languages, arts,
Perhaps the greatest im-
Arabs. Their influence-
cultural-can be seen in
Sindhi language and cus-
dar, Arabic script, camel
long hair, and the cultiva-
was the provincial capital
the seat of the University
S (100 km) east of Karachi,
mosque, built by the Mu-
itury. It is considered to
te surviving example of
Indian subcontinent.
amily of Maratha rulers in
was Gwalior. See also
ALLEN GREEN/PHOTO RESEARCHERS
Singapore is Southeast Asia's busiest commercial and industrial center.
ristian (1856-1941), Nor-
pianist. He was born in
SINGAPORE, sing'e-pôr, the smallest nation in
luctantly proclaimed independence in the wake
1856, and studied in Chris-
Southeast Asia. Essentially an island city-state,
of his state's eviction from the federal union.
the Leipzig Conservatory,
it is situated off the southern tip of the Malay
Malaya, the other major partner, had from the
1, and Munich. He then
Peninsula athwart the northern, preferred pas-
outset felt uneasy in association with its southern
areer in Christiania, aided
sageway between the Indian and Pacific oceans.
neighbor because of the island's predominantly
al grant from the Norwe-
Thus it commands a strategic threshold of inter-
Chinese population and formally socialist gov-
national commerce that for centuries has been
ernment. Now rejected by the federation and
ecognition with his Piano
coveted by regional and, especially, nonregional
soon all but abandoned by Britain in matters of
it subsequently composed
powers.
defense, Singapore began a new era of lonely
forms, especially for the
Founded in 1819 by a British trading compa-
self-reliance.
works include two violin
ny, Singapore came under direct British rule in
certo, three symphonies,
1867. Free trade and (until 1930) unrestricted
1. The Land
a, choral music, and over
immigration made it a prosperous colony with a
Singapore consists of the main island and 54
: is as a piano composer
largely Chinese population. Singapore was also
nearby islets. Its only natural resources are its
1, largely through his im-
Britain's most strongly fortified naval base in
people, its favorable location, and its sheltered
lingsrauschen (Rustle of
Asia, but it fell helplessly to a rearward attack by
deepwater harbor.
e Holy Mountain, with a
the Japanese army during World War II.
Physical Features and Climate. Singapore Island
heilige Berg) by Dora
In the mid-1960's, Singapore became one of
in 1914. In 1920-1921
history's rare examples of involuntary nation-
is situated at the mouth of the funnel-shaped
Strait of Malacca (Melaka), the interocean water-
man School of Music,
hood. Internally self-governing since 1959, it
g died in Oslo on Dec.
had been a founding member of the federation of
Malaysia, created in 1963 by former British de-
CHINA
rs, Otto Ludwig (1842-
pendencies in Southeast Asia. On Aug. 9, 1965,
INDIA
(1846-1922), were well-
the prime minister of Singapore wept as he re-
BURMA
BAY
THAI-
RY.
LAND
OF
VIETNAM
INFORMATION HIGHLIGHTS
ntal wave form. A sine
Area: 239.5 square miles (620 sq km).
BENGAL
SOUTH
ine, such as one repre-
Elevations: Highest point-Bukit Timah (581 feet, or
Str.
CHINA
tage or current, in the
177 meters); lowest point-sea level.
SEA
Population: (1980 census) 2,074,507.
= a sin b x. Sine waves
Capital and Largest City: Singapore.
ALAYS
alysis, since the graph of
Name of Nationals: Singaporeans.
SINGAPORE
harmonic motion takes
Major Languages: Malay, Mandarin Chinese, Tamil,
Equator
English (all official).
See also ELECTRICITY-
Major Religious Groups: Buddhist, Taoist, Muslim,
BORNEO
uits; FOURIER SERIES;
Christian, Hindu.
lternating-Current Gen-
Monetary Unit: Singapore dollar.
SINGAPORE
INDONESIA
LYSIS; TRIGONOMETRY-
For Singapore's flag, see under FLAG, both illus-
o
800 Mi.
inctions.
tration and text.
INDIAN
JAVA
o
800 Km.
OCEAN
839
3. The People
In 1970, when the
reached 2 million, the
was so high that the po'
double by the year 2000
ment's vigorous family
ceeded in reducing gr.
and the projected popu
the 20th century was rev
gration is severely rest
the people live in the
island's southern shore
Chinese make up m
ulation, but this comm
homogeneous. Five m
Hokkien, Cantonese, T.
Hakka. The Chinese
ways. Buddhism, Taoi
have Chinese adherent
Malays compose abc
They are united in the 1
and are virtually unanin
the Muslim faith. Sout
of the population. Mos
Muslims, and most use
guage. The remainder
wilderingly diverse, CO1
over the globe.
The government of
use the linguistic, relig
ADAM WOOLFITT/WOODFIN CAMP
differences of its people
fostering mutual respect
An older shopping street preserves the atmosphere of Singapore's bygone colonial days.
as the cornerstone of a n
Linguistic policy design
al language but accorde
way between the Indonesian island of Sumatra
tions made in 1961 by a United Nations survey
to Mandarin Chinese, T
and Peninsular Malaysia. The strait provides
team, a crash program of industrialization was
begun. Dramatic progress resulted as model in-
dren study English and
the shortest connection between the Indian
Ocean and the South China Sea of the Pacific
dustrial estates were built, the large Jurong fa-
main languages in scho
Singapore is proud
Ocean. Separating the island from the Malay
cility becoming a national showcase. Singa-
pore's success in attracting foreign investment in
and devotes a large shai
Peninsula is Johor Strait, which is narrow
tion. At the National
enough to be spanned by a road, rail, and water-
export-oriented industries was attributed to
pipeline causeway.
sound and aggressive planning, central location,
scholars sometimes gru
ment's emphasis on
At its greatest extent, Singapore Island mea-
political stability, an excellent service infrastruc-
ture, and the availability of skilled workpower.
training at the expense
sures 27 miles (43 km) from east to west and 14
As the manufacturing sector developed, the
official spokesmen insi
miles (22.5 km) from north to south. Its area of
221 square miles (572 sq km), about the size of
government encouraged investors to establish in-
have practical applicatic
the nation.
Chicago, accounts for 92% of the national territo-
dustries that required more skill and knowledge,
ry. Granitic central hills reach a maximum ele-
paid better wages, and turned out products with
Singapore has cond
vation of 581 feet (177 meters). The coastal low-
a higher value added by manufacturing. The
most comprehensive ex]
result was a shift from labor-intensive industries
ing. More than two th
lands are deeply indented and in many places
public accommodations
swampy. Soils are generally low in fertility.
such as clothing and wood products.
The main production categories are oil refin-
ment complexes. The
Because Singapore lies only 90 miles (145
ing, shipbuilding and repair, electrical and elec-
quarters. Whole new S
km) north of the equator and has no great eleva-
erected as communitie
tions, its climate is tropical. Temperature, rela-
tronic equipment, nonelectrical machinery,
tive humidity, and rainfall are high, and seasonal
chemicals, foods and beverages, and printing and
All races are encourag
publishing. Singapore is a world leader in ship
housing settlements.
variation is slight. The jungle that once covered
Singapore Island is now largely cleared, so that
repair and in the refining of oil and petroleum
4. History and Governme
little wildlife remains.
products. Its electronics industry, a growth
leader, has turned from the labor-intensive as-
Although Chinese c
2. The Economy
sembly of components to the manufacture of
ends recall a city name
Trade, together with services such as ship-
computers, calculators, telecommunications
on the island during the
Singapore's modern hi
ping, storage, banking, insurance, and tele-
equipment, and medical instruments.
communications have given Singaporeans the
Singapore ranks among the world's busiest
glishman, Thomas Sta
Raffles acquired the isl
reputation of being the most highly skilled
seaports. Besides exporting or reexporting man-
middlemen of Asia. Entrepôt activity, the tradi-
ufactured goods, it enjoys a large entrepôt trade
tan of Johor on behalf
in primary commodities such as rubber, grain,
Company. With extrac
tional mainstay of the economy, brought prosper-
ity and a standard of living unmatched by any
coffee, and spices. Its chief imports for domestic
the foundations for a gr
nation in eastern Asia except Japan and Brunei.
use are petroleum, machinery, and transportation
ing the transformation
When Singapore became self-governing in
equipment. Although the country imports most
into a free-trade empori
of its food, that category accounts for less than
al importance.
1959, its leaders recognized that the commercial
10% of total imports. Singapore's chief trading
British Rule. After
sector alone could not sustain the island's eco-
partners are the United States, Japan, Malaysia,
conflicting claim to th
nomic growth in the face of rapid population
increase and accelerated competition from
the European Economic Community, and (for oil
Dutch Treaty of 1824, B
istration of Singapore to
neighboring countries. Following recommenda-
imports) the Middle East.
840
SINGAPORE: The People-History and Government
841
3. The People
Company to the British India office in 1858.
In 1970, when the population of Singapore
The British colonial office began in 1867 to ad-
reached 2 million, the rate of natural increase
minister the island directly-along with Pirang
was so high that the population was expected to
(Panang) and Melaka (Malacca) on the western
double by the year 2000. However, the govern-
side of the Malay Peninsula-as the Crown Col-
ment's vigorous family-planning program suc-
ony of the Straits Settlements. Even before
ceeded in reducing growth rates substantially,
1869, when the opening of the Suez Canal mark-
and the projected population for the last year of
edly increased East-West commerce, Singapore
the 20th century was revised to 3 million. Immi-
was thriving as a major port. The island had
gration is severely restricted. The majority of
already become an important link in Britain's
the people live in the city of Singapore on the
eastern empire, supporting a population of ap-
island's southern shore.
proximately 100,000, mainly Chinese.
Chinese make up more than 75% of the pop-
Britain developed a military and naval station
ulation, but this communal category is far from
at Singapore during the early decades of the 20th
homogeneous. Five major dialects are spoken:
century and relied upon it as "the bastion of the
Hokkien, Cantonese, Teochew, Hainanese, and
Empire," the "Gibraltar of the East." During
Hakka. The Chinese also worship in several
World War II the Japanese proved that Singapore
ways. Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity all
was only a base and not a bastion. After racing
have Chinese adherents.
down the Malay Peninsula in a brilliant cam-
Malays compose about 15% of the population.
paign, Gen. Yamashita Tomoyuki took the "im-
They are united in the use of the Malay language
pregnable" island on Feb. 15, 1942, after a six-
and are virtually unanimous in their allegiance to
day siege. Conquest and occupation by the
the Muslim faith. South Asians account for 6%
Japanese fundamentally disrupted the prewar so-
of the population. Most of them are Hindus or
ciety and marked the beginning of the end of
Muslims, and most use Tamil as their home lan-
British colonial rule.
guage. The remainder of the population is be-
When the British returned at the war's end,
wilderingly diverse, comprising people from all
Singapore was made a separate crown colony. It
over the globe.
was granted internal self-government in 1959.
The government of Singapore determined to
The socialist People's Action Party (PAP) won 43
use the linguistic, religious, and other cultural
of the 51 legislative seats in the first general
differences of its people to the advantage of all,
© ADAM WOOLFITT/WOODFIN CAMP
elections in 1959, thereby capturing decisive
fostering mutual respect and toleration for others
control of the government. Lee Kuan Yew be-
colonial days.
as the cornerstone of a new Singaporean identity.
came Singapore's first prime minister.
Linguistic policy designated Malay as the nation-
Independence and Federation. In September
al language but accorded equal and official status
United Nations survey
1963, after a local referendum, Singapore
of industrialization was
to Mandarin Chinese, Tamil, and English. Chil-
achieved independence by becoming one of the
dren study English and one of the other three
SS resulted as model in-
14 states in the new federation of Malaysia. Just
ilt, the large Jurong fa-
main languages in school.
23 months later, on Aug. 9, 1965, severe internal
Singapore is proud of its high literacy rate
nal showcase. Singa-
ig foreign investment in
and devotes a large share of its budget to educa-
es was attributed to
tion. At the National University of Singapore,
Tiger Balm Garden, one of Singapore's popular leisure
scholars sometimes grumble about the govern-
attractions, is a park devoted to Chinese folklore.
anning, central location,
BLUMEBILD/H. ARMSTRONG ROBERTS
ellent service infrastruc-
ment's emphasis on vocational and technical
of skilled workpower.
training at the expense of academic studies, but
; sector developed, the
official spokesmen insist that knowledge must
investors to establish in-
have practical applications to the development of
the nation.
re skill and knowledge,
irned out products with
Singaporé has conducted one of the world's
y manufacturing. The
most comprehensive experiments in public hous-
bor-intensive industries
ing. More than two thirds of the people live in
od products.
public accommodations, mainly high-rise apart-
categories are oil refin-
ment complexes. The majority own their living
quarters. Whole new satellite towns have been
air, electrical and elec-
erected as communities that are self sufficient.
electrical machinery,
erages, and printing and
All races are encouraged to mingle in the new
a world leader in ship
housing settlements.
ig of oil and petroleum
4. History and Government
CS industry, a growth
the labor-intensive as-
Although Chinese chronicles and Malay leg-
to the manufacture of
ends recall a city named Temasek ("sea town")
telecommunications
on the island during the 13th and 14th centuries,
Singapore's modern history begins with an En-
instruments.
ng the world's busiest
glishman, Thomas Stamford Raffles. In 1819,
ing or reexporting man-
Raffles acquired the island from the Malay Sul-
S a large entrepôt trade
tan of Johor on behalf of the British East India
such as rubber, grain,
Company. With extraordinary foresight he laid
ief imports for domestic
the foundations for a great modern city, envisag-
nery, and transportation
ing the transformation of a tiny fishing village
e country imports most
into a free-trade emporium that would have glob-
accounts for less than
al importance.
ngapore's chief trading
British Rule. After settling the Netherlands'
States, Japan, Malaysia,
conflicting claim to the island by the Anglo-
Community, and (for oil
Dutch Treaty of 1824, Britain allowed the admin-
istration of Singapore to pass from the East India
t.
842
SINGER-SINGING
conflict resulted in Singapore's separation from
SINGER, Isaac Bashevis (1904- ), American
SINGLE TAX, a reform pro
the federation. The island became an indepen-
author, who was awarded the Nobel Prize for lit-
omist Henry George in
dent republic within the Commonwealth of Na-
erature in 1978. Most of his fiction is rooted in
Poverty (1879). George'
the Jewish villages (shtetls) of Poland, although
ish all taxation save th
tions.
The Republic of Singapore. Singapore's political
several works concern the Jewish experience in
This was developed not
system is based on the British model of parlia-
America. He composed in Yiddish and super-
but as a method for achi
mentary democracy. A single-chamber elected
vised translation into English.
social goal, that of raising
Parliament is headed by the majority party lead-
Singer was born in Leoncin, Poland, on Nov.
equal rights in land.
er, who, as prime minister, forms a cabinet that is
21, 1904, of a rabbinical family. His traditional
The term "single I
responsible to Parliament. Parliament also el-
education was influenced by Hasidic mysticism
Progress and Poverty bu
ects a president for a four-year term to perform
and the Jewish Enlightenment (Haskalah). In
years later. Actually, the
ceremonial duties.
1923 he abandoned his religious studies to be-
impôt unique of the Fr.
The action-oriented PAP was driven by so-
come a proofreader and translator for a Yiddish
18th century. They, too.
cialist ideals toward high goals and tight time-
newspaper in Warsaw. He moved to the United
land only, but George k
tables. With British withdrawal of all but a
States in 1935 and became a citizen in 1943. He
when he wrote Progress
token military force from the area in 1971, with
worked as a journalist for the Jewish Daily For-
Theory. The purpose
the U.S. disengagement from Vietnam, and with
ward, which serialized his fiction.
explain the paradox of
the increased acceptance among the world pow-
Singer's works typically explore the tensions
progress, and to solve the
ers of the People's Republic of China, non-Com-
between orthodox and secular values, the sacred
al depressions alternat-
munist Singapore felt it must race the clock to
and the profane, the emotions and the intellect,
George saw the answer
build enough autonomous vitality to withstand
and alienation. His first novel, Satan in Goray
monopolization of land-
regional absorption or big-power hegemony.
(1935), tells of Cossack depredations against a
cluding natural resource
Britain's once total defense commitment to Sin-
Polish shtetl but is essentially about the loss of
The rent of land in
gapore was replaced by a nominal five-power
faith of its residents. Other novels include The
progress, said George, ai
defense arrangement involving Singapore, Ma-
Family Moskat (1950), The Manor (1967), and
benefit while the wages
laysia, Britain, New Zealand, and Australia.
The Estate (1969), all on the theme of genera-
pressed. Rising rent er
Singapore is deeply interdependent with In-
tional conflict; The Magician of Lublin (1960);
tion, which accelerates t
donesia and the Malaysian federation in a Malay,
Enemies: A Love Story (1972); and The Penitent
speculative rents that ar
Muslim archipelago and peninsula that has a
(1983). Singer's numerous short stories appear
the ranks of labor and Ca
marked suspicion of Chinese, if not an anti-Chi-
in such collections as Gimpel the Fool (1957),
them and still employ
nese atmosphere. PAP leaders were aware that
Short Friday (1964), The Seance (1968), A Crown
These victims then stop
some Malays viewed the success of Singapore as
of Feathers (1973), Old Love (1979), The Image
sion occurs. Though G
the partial fulfillment of the ancient Malay night-
(1985), and The Death of Methuselah (1988).
causes of depression, suc
mare of Chinese domination. Such Malay fears
Singer also wrote a series of memoirs: In My
it situations, he maintain
had contributed to Singapore's eviction from Ma-
Father's Court (1966), A Little Boy in Search of
was the basic and ever-p
laysia and had helped start and sustain racial riot-
God (1976), A Young Man in Search of Love
As his remedy for p
ing in Malaysia in 1969. Some of the sparks of
(1978), and Lost in America (1981).
George said, "We must n
the 1969 communal violence had spilled over
ISRAEL JOSHUA SINGER (1893-1944), his broth-
erty. He proposed to
the causeway into Singapore before they were
er, was also a Yiddish writer. His best-known
turbed, but to take, throu
snuffed out with mass arrests.
novel is The Brothers Ashkenazi (1936).
of the economic rent 0
Amid these threatening undercurrents, the
exceeding that from the
leaders of Singapore planned against possible
Further Reading: Alexander, Edward, Isaac Bashevis
Singer (G. K. Hall 1980); Allentuck, Marcia, ed., The
least productive.
future dangers. With the help of Israeli military
Achievement of Isaac Bashevis Singer (So. Ill. Univ. Press
Criticisms. Early critic
advisers, the government created an efficient
1969); Miller, David N., Fear of Fiction: Narrative Strate-
proposal argued that it W
self-defense system for the island. National ser-
gies in the Works of Isaac Bashevis Singer (State Univ. of
total burden of taxation (
N.Y. Press 1985); Sinclair, Clive, The Brothers Singer
vice was made compulsory for all men and
(Schocken 1983).
ticularly on rural lando
women between the ages of 18 and 45.
were poor farmers. The
Lee Kuan Yew captained one of the world's
SINGER, Isaac Merrit (1811-1875), American in-
since the tax applies to e
most able cabinets and placed heavy emphasis in
ventor who developed the first practical home
ness rents-rents due to
government on intellectuals and university facul-
sewing machine. Singer was born in Pittstown,
the land-the plan migh
ty. Despite the forms of British parliamentary
N.Y., on Oct. 27, 1811. He left home at the age
culty of making distinct
democracy, he held tight reign over a virtually
of 12 and for many years was an itinerant me-
capital values.
lone-party state. The PAP's only significant op-
chanic. In 1851, Singer patented a sewing ma-
Later opponents of
position-the radical Barisan Socialist Party-
chine capable of producing continuous stitching
point to changed conditi
was driven underground or to imprisonment.
both straight and curved. With Edward Clark he
conceived in a period W
For 16 years, until November 1981, the PAP held
formed I. M. Singer & Company and began to
being made from land
all of the seats in Parliament.
produce the machine.
States. Subsequently, t
The press was kept in line by government
Between 1851 and 1863, Singer received 20
U.S. measures acted as l
licensing, the labor unions were made politically
patents for improvements on his machine, and
and the rent of land beca
docile, and the intellectuals were harnessed into
the firm, now known as the Singer Manufactur-
of the national income, I
"practical" work in the interest of the state. But
ing Company, became the world's leading manu-
den of increasingly heav
the PAP tempered its self-described "rugged so-
facturer of sewing machines. To encourage
also GEORGE, HENRY.
ciety" or "competitive meritocracy" with en-
sales among the working classes, Singer and
lightened impartiality and flexibility. Above all
Clark devised a system of installment payments,
SINGSPIEL, zing' shpël,
it legitimized its rule with dramatically success-
and the company was the first to take trade-ins of
comic, loosely defined a
ful results in housing, education, public health,
old machines toward the purchase of new ones.
ing of spoken dialogue i
and a largely free-enterprise economy.
Singer retired from active direction of the
The term is German, n
FELIX V. GAGLIANO, Ohio University
business in 1863 and spent his remaining years
play." Popular in Germ
in Europe. He died in Torquay, England, on
the 18th century, the Sin
Further Reading: Drysdale, John, Singapore: Struggle
for Success (Times Books Intl. 1984); Hassan, Riaz, ed., Sin-
July 23, 1875. See also SEWING MACHINE.
mon with English ballad
gapore: Society in Transition (Oxford 1976); Nair, C. V.
comique. Imitations oi
Devan, Socialism that Works: The Singapore Way (Federal
SINGH, Govind. See GOVIND SINGH.
were, in fact, the beginni
Publications 1977); Quah, Jon S. T., Government and Poli-
spiel. In the 1750's, J. C.
tics of Singapore (Oxford 1985); Turnbull, C. M., A History
of Singapore, 1819-1975, 5th ed. (Oxford 1984).
SINGING. See VOICE.
to German translations ol
aluchistan. Sir Charles
Britain in 1843, trans-
age reading "Peccavi,"
The conquest was
owever, Sind became
uistically, as well as
It was administered
cy until 1937, when it
ce.
referred to as a "caul-
S experienced an ex-
opulations since the
least 16 distinct types
mark on the region,
ures, languages, arts,
haps the greatest im-
os. Their influence-
ral-can be seen in
i language and cus-
Arabic script, camel
hair, and the cultiva-
the provincial capital
eat of the University
km) east of Karachi,
1e, built by the Mu-
It is considered to
rviving example of
an subcontinent.
of Maratha rulers in
© ALLEN GREEN/PHOTO RESEARCHERS
Gwalior. See also
Singapore is Southeast Asia's busiest commercial and industrial center.
(1856-1941), Nor-
st. He was born in
SINGAPORE, sing'e-pôr, the smallest nation in
luctantly proclaimed independence in the wake
and studied in Chris-
Southeast Asia. Essentially an island city-state,
of his state's eviction from the federal union.
eipzig Conservatory,
it is situated off the southern tip of the Malay
Malaya, the other major partner, had from the
H Munich. He then
Peninsula athwart the northern, preferred pas-
outset felt uneasy in association with its southern
in Christiania, aided
sageway between the Indian and Pacific oceans.
neighbor because of the island's predominantly
ant from the Norwe-
Thus it commands a strategic threshold of inter-
Chinese population and formally socialist gov-
national commerce that for centuries has been
ernment. Now rejected by the federation and
ition with his Piano
coveted by regional and, especially, nonregional
soon all but abandoned by Britain in matters of
sequently composed
powers.
defense, Singapore began a new era of lonely
especially for the
Founded in 1819 by a British trading compa-
self-reliance.
include two violin
ny, Singapore came under direct British rule in
1867. Free trade and (until 1930) unrestricted
1. The Land
three symphonies,
oral music, and over
immigration made it a prosperous colony with a
Singapore consists of the main island and 54
a piano composer
largely Chinese population. Singapore was also
nearby islets. Its only natural resources are its
gely through his im-
Britain's most strongly fortified naval base in
people, its favorable location, and its sheltered
rauschen (Rustle of
Asia, but it fell helplessly to a rearward attack by
deepwater harbor.
y Mountain, with a
the Japanese army during World War II.
Physical Features and Climate. Singapore Island
ge Berg) by Dora
In the mid-1960's, Singapore became one of
is situated at the mouth of the funnel-shaped
914. In 1920-1921
history's rare examples of involuntary nation-
Strait of Malacca (Melaka), the interocean water-
School of Music,
hood. Internally self-governing since 1959, it
d in Oslo on Dec.
had been a founding member of the federation of
Malaysia, created in 1963 by former British de-
CHINA
tto Ludwig (1842-
pendencies in Southeast Asia. On Aug. 9, 1965,
INDIA
the prime minister of Singapore wept as he re-
BURMA
6-1922), were well-
BAY
THAI-
LAND
VIETNAM
OF
INFORMATION HIGHLIGHTS
BENGAL
SOUTH
PHILIPPINES
wave form. A sine
Area: 239.5 square miles (620 sq km).
Str.
CHINA
such as one repre-
Elevations: Highest point-Bukit Timah (581 feet, or
or current, in the
177 meters); lowest point-sea level.
SEA
Population: (1980 census) 2,074,507.
sin b x. Sine waves
Capital and Largest City: Singapore.
ALAYS
since the graph of
Name of Nationals: Singaporeans.
SINGAPORE
monic motion takes
Major Languages: Malay, Mandarin Chinese, Tamil,
Equator
English (all official).
also ELECTRICITY-
Major Religious Groups: Buddhist, Taoist, Muslim,
SUMATRA
BORNEO
FOURIER SERIES;
Christian, Hindu.
Monetary Unit: Singapore dollar.
SINGAPORE
INDONESIA
ating-Current Gen-
TRIGONOMETRY-
For Singapore's flag, see under FLAG, both illus-
o
800 Mi.
tration and text.
INDIAN
JAVA
ns.
0
800 Km.
OCEAN
839
3. TI
I
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the 2
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use th
© ADAM WOOLFITT/WOODFIN CAMP
differe
An older shopping street preserves the atmosphere of Singapore's bygone colonial days.
fosteri
as the
Lingu
way between the Indonesian island of Sumatra
tions made in 1961 by a United Nations survey
al lang
and Peninsular Malaysia. The strait provides
the shortest connection between the Indian
team, a crash program of industrialization was
to Mar
begun. Dramatic progress resulted as model in-
dren S
Ocean and the South China Sea of the Pacific
Ocean. Separating the island from the Malay
dustrial estates were built, the large Jurong fa-
main 1
cility becoming a national showcase. Singa-
Sin
Peninsula is Johor Strait, which is narrow
enough to be spanned by a road, rail, and water-
pore's success in attracting foreign investment in
and de
pipeline causeway.
export-oriented industries was attributed to
tion.
At its greatest extent, Singapore Island mea-
sound and aggressive planning, central location,
scholar
political stability, an excellent service infrastruc-
ment's
sures 27 miles (43 km) from east to west and 14
ture, and the availability of skilled workpower.
trainin
miles (22.5 km) from north to south. Its area of
As the manufacturing sector developed, the
official
221 square miles (572 sq km), about the size of
Chicago, accounts for 92% of the national territo-
government encouraged investors to establish in-
have pl
ry. Granitic central hills reach a maximum ele-
dustries that required more skill and knowledge,
the nat
paid better wages, and turned out products with
Sing
vation of 581 feet (177 meters). The coastal low-
a higher value added by manufacturing. The
most CO
lands are deeply indented and in many places
result was a shift from labor-intensive industries
ing. M
swampy. Soils are generally low in fertility.
Because Singapore lies only 90 miles (145
such as clothing and wood products.
public
The main production categories are oil refin-
ment C(
km) north of the equator and has no great eleva-
tions, its climate is tropical. Temperature, rela-
ing, shipbuilding and repair, electrical and elec-
quarter:
tive humidity, and rainfall are high, and seasonal
tronic equipment, nonelectrical machinery,
erected
variation is slight. The jungle that once covered
chemicals, foods and beverages, and printing and
All race
Singapore Island is now largely cleared, so that
publishing. Singapore is a world leader in ship
housing
little wildlife remains.
repair and in the refining of oil and petroleum
4. Histo
products. Its electronics industry, a growth
2. The Economy
leader, has turned from the labor-intensive as-
Alth
Trade, together with services such as ship-
sembly of components to the manufacture of
ends re
ping, storage, banking, insurance, and tele-
computers, calculators, telecommunications
on the is
equipment, and medical instruments.
Singapo
communications have given Singaporeans the
reputation of being the most highly skilled
Singapore ranks among the world's busiest
glishmar
middlemen of Asia. Entrepôt activity, the tradi-
seaports. Besides exporting or reexporting man-
Raffles a
tional mainstay of the economy, brought prosper-
ufactured goods, it enjoys a large entrepôt trade
tan of J
in primary commodities such as rubber, grain,
Compan
ity and a standard of living unmatched by any
nation in eastern Asia except Japan and Brunei.
coffee, and spices. Its chief imports for domestic
the foun
When Singapore became self-governing in
use are petroleum, machinery, and transportation
ing the
1959, its leaders recognized that the commercial
equipment. Although the country imports most
into a fre
of its food, that category accounts for less than
al impor
sector alone could not sustain the island's eco-
10% of total imports. Singapore's chief trading
British
nomic growth in the face of rapid population
increase and accelerated competition from
partners are the United States, Japan, Malaysia,
conflictir
neighboring countries. Following recommenda-
the European Economic Community, and (for oil
Dutch T1
imports) the Middle East.
istration
840
SINGAPORE: The People-History and Government
841
3. The People
Company to the British India office in 1858.
In 1970, when the population of Singapore
The British colonial office began in 1867 to ad-
reached 2 million, the rate of natural increase
minister the island directly-along with Pirang
was so high that the population was expected to
(Panang) and Melaka (Malacca) on the western
double by the year 2000. However, the govern-
side of the Malay Peninsula-as the Crown Col-
ment's vigorous family-planning program suc-
ony of the Straits Settlements. Even before
ceeded in reducing growth rates substantially,
1869, when the opening of the Suez Canal mark-
and the projected population for the last year of
edly increased East-West commerce, Singapore
the 20th century was revised to 3 million. Immi-
was thriving as a major port. The island had
gration is severely restricted. The majority of
already become an important link in Britain's
the people live in the city of Singapore on the
island's southern shore.
eastern empire, supporting a population of ap-
proximately 100,000, mainly Chinese.
Chinese make up more than 75% of the pop-
Britain developed a military and naval station
ulation, but this communal category is far from
at Singapore during the early decades of the 20th
homogeneous. Five major dialects are spoken:
century and relied upon it as "the bastion of the
Hokkien, Cantonese, Teochew, Hainanese, and
Empire," the "Gibraltar of the East." During
Hakka. The Chinese also worship in several
World War II the Japanese proved that Singapore
ways. Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity all
was only a base and not a bastion. After racing
have Chinese adherents.
down the Malay Peninsula in a brilliant cam-
Malays compose about 15% of the population.
paign, Gen. Yamashita Tomoyuki took the "im-
They are united in the use of the Malay language
pregnable" island on Feb. 15, 1942, after a six-
and are virtually unanimous in their allegiance to
day siege. Conquest and occupation by the
the Muslim faith. South Asians account for 6%
Japanese fundamentally disrupted the prewar so-
of the population. Most of them are Hindus or
ciety and marked the beginning of the end of
Muslims, and most use Tamil as their home lan-
British colonial rule.
guage. The remainder of the population is be-
When the British returned at the war's end,
wilderingly diverse, comprising people from all
Singapore was made a separate crown colony. It
over the globe.
was granted internal self-government in 1959.
The government of Singapore determined to
The socialist People's Action Party (PAP) won 43
use the linguistic, religious, and other cultural
of the 51 legislative seats in the first general
differences of its people to the advantage of all,
elections in 1959, thereby capturing decisive
fostering mutual respect and toleration for others
control of the government. Lee Kuan Yew be-
as the cornerstone of a new Singaporean identity.
came Singapore's first prime minister.
Linguistic policy designated Malay as the nation-
Independence and Federation. In September
al language but accorded equal and official status
1963, after a local referendum, Singapore
to Mandarin Chinese, Tamil, and English. Chil-
as
achieved independence by becoming one of the
dren study English and one of the other three
14 states in the new federation of Malaysia. Just
main languages in school.
23 months later, on Aug. 9, 1965, severe internal
Singapore is proud of its high literacy rate
a-
in
and devotes a large share of its budget to educa-
tion. At the National University of Singapore,
Tiger Balm Garden, one of Singapore's popular leisure
to
scholars sometimes grumble about the govern-
attractions, is a park devoted to Chinese folklore.
ment's emphasis on vocational and technical
BLUMEBILD/H. ARMSTRONG ROBERTS
c-
training at the expense of academic studies, but
official spokesmen insist that knowledge must
have practical applications to the development of
the nation.
Singapore has conducted one of the world's
most comprehensive experiments in public hous-
ing. More than two thirds of the people live in
public accommodations, mainly high-rise apart-
ment complexes. The majority own their living
quarters. Whole new satellite towns have been
erected as communities that are self sufficient.
All races are encouraged to mingle in the new
housing settlements.
4. History and Government
Although Chinese chronicles and Malay leg-
of
ends recall a city named Temasek ("sea town")
on the island during the 13th and 14th centuries,
Singapore's modern history begins with an En-
glishman, Thomas Stamford Raffles. In 1819,
Raffles acquired the island from the Malay Sul-
tan of Johor on behalf of the British East India
Company. With extraordinary foresight he laid
the foundations for a great modern city, envisag-
ing the transformation of a tiny fishing village
into a free-trade emporium that would have glob-
al importance.
British Rule. After settling the Netherlands'
conflicting claim to the island by the Anglo-
Dutch Treaty of 1824, Britain allowed the admin-
istration of Singapore to pass from the East India
842
SINGER-SINGING
conflict resulted in Singapore's separation from
SINGER, Isaac Bashevis (1904-
), American
SIN
the federation. The island became an indepen-
author, who was awarded the Nobel Prize for lit-
om
dent republic within the Commonwealth of Na-
erature in 1978. Most of his fiction is rooted in
Pot
tions.
the Jewish villages (shtetls) of Poland, although
ish
The Republic of Singapore. Singapore's political
several works concern the Jewish experience in
Th
system is based on the British model of parlia-
America. He composed in Yiddish and super-
but
mentary democracy. A single-chamber elected
vised translation into English.
SOC
Parliament is headed by the majority party lead-
Singer was born in Leoncin, Poland, on Nov.
equ
er, who, as prime minister, forms a cabinet that is
21, 1904, of a rabbinical family. His traditional
responsible to Parliament. Parliament also el-
education was influenced by Hasidic mysticism
Pro
ects a president for a four-year term to perform
and the Jewish Enlightenment (Haskalah). In
yea
ceremonial duties.
1923 he abandoned his religious studies to be-
im
The action-oriented PAP was driven by so-
come a proofreader and translator for a Yiddish
18t
cialist ideals toward high goals and tight time-
newspaper in Warsaw. He moved to the United
lan
tables. With British withdrawal of all but a
States in 1935 and became a citizen in 1943. He
wh
token military force from the area in 1971, with
worked as a journalist for the Jewish Daily For-
the U.S. disengagement from Vietnam, and with
ward, which serialized his fiction.
exp
the increased acceptance among the world pow-
Singer's works typically explore the tensions
pro
ers of the People's Republic of China, non-Com-
between orthodox and secular values, the sacred
al
munist Singapore felt it must race the clock to
and the profane, the emotions and the intellect,
Ge
build enough autonomous vitality to withstand
and alienation. His first novel, Satan in Goray
mo
regional absorption or big-power hegemony.
(1935), tells of Cossack depredations against a
clu
Britain's once total defense commitment to Sin-
Polish shtetl but is essentially about the loss of
gapore was replaced by a nominal five-power
faith of its residents. Other novels include The
pro
defense arrangement involving Singapore, Ma-
Family Moskat (1950), The Manor (1967), and
ben
laysia, Britain, New Zealand, and Australia.
The Estate (1969), all on the theme of genera-
pre
Singapore is deeply interdependent with In-
tional conflict; The Magician of Lublin (1960);
tion
donesia and the Malaysian federation in a Malay,
Enemies: A Love Story (1972); and The Penitent
spe
Muslim archipelago and peninsula that has a
(1983). Singer's numerous short stories appear
the
marked suspicion of Chinese, if not an anti-Chi-
in such collections as Gimpel the Fool (1957),
the
nese atmosphere. PAP leaders were aware that
Short Friday (1964), The Seance (1968), A Crown
The
some Malays viewed the success of Singapore as
of Feathers (1973), Old Love (1979), The Image
sior
the partial fulfillment of the ancient Malay night-
(1985), and The Death of Methuselah (1988).
cau
mare of Chinese domination. Such Malay fears
Singer also wrote a series of memoirs: In My
it si
had contributed to Singapore's eviction from Ma-
Father's Court (1966), A Little Boy in Search of
was
laysia and had helped start and sustain racial riot-
God (1976), A Young Man in Search of Love
ing in Malaysia in 1969. Some of the sparks of
(1978), and Lost in America (1981).
Ge
the 1969 communal violence had spilled over
ISRAEL JOSHUA SINGER (1893-1944), his broth-
erty
the causeway into Singapore before they were
er, was also a Yiddish writer. His best-known
turl
snuffed out with mass arrests.
novel is The Brothers Ashkenazi (1936).
of
Amid these threatening undercurrents, the
exce
leaders of Singapore planned against possible
Further Reading: Alexander, Edward, Isaac Bashevis
leas
Singer (G. K. Hall 1980); Allentuck, Marcia, ed., The
future dangers. With the help of Israeli military
Achievement of Isaac Bashevis Singer (So. Ill. Univ. Press
(
advisers, the government created an efficient
1969); Miller, David N., Fear of Fiction: Narrative Strate-
proj
self-defense system for the island. National ser-
gies in the Works of Isaac Bashevis Singer (State Univ. of
tota
N.Y. Press 1985); Sinclair, Clive, The Brothers Singer
vice was made compulsory for all men and
(Schocken 1983).
ticu
women between the ages of 18 and 45.
wer
Lee Kuan Yew captained one of the world's
SINGER, Isaac Merrit (1811-1875), American in-
sinc
most able cabinets and placed heavy emphasis in
ventor who developed the first practical home
ness
government on intellectuals and university facul-
sewing machine. Singer was born in Pittstown,
the
ty. Despite the forms of British parliamentary
N.Y., on Oct. 27, 1811. He left home at the age
cult
democracy, he held tight reign over a virtually
of 12 and for many years was an itinerant me-
capi
one-party state. The PAP's only significant op-
chanic. In 1851, Singer patented a sewing ma-
I
position-the radical Barisan Socialist Party-
chine capable of producing continuous stitching
poir
was driven underground or to imprisonment.
both straight and curved. With Edward Clark he
con
For 16 years, until November 1981, the PAP held
formed I. M. Singer & Company and began to
beir
all of the seats in Parliament.
produce the machine.
Stat
The press was kept in line by government
Between 1851 and 1863, Singer received 20
U.S.
licensing, the labor unions were made politically
patents for improvements on his machine, and
and
docile, and the intellectuals were harnessed into
the firm, now known as the Singer Manufactur-
of th
"practical" work in the interest of the state. But
ing Company, became the world's leading manu-
den
the PAP tempered its self-described "rugged so-
facturer of sewing machines. To encourage
also
ciety" or "competitive meritocracy" with en-
sales among the working classes, Singer and
lightened impartiality and flexibility. Above all
Clark devised a system of installment payments,
SING
it legitimized its rule with dramatically success-
and the company was the first to take trade-ins of
com
ful results in housing, education, public health,
old machines toward the purchase of new ones.
ing
and a largely free-enterprise economy.
Singer retired from active direction of the
The
FELIX V. GAGLIANO, Ohio University
business in 1863 and spent his remaining years
play
Further Reading: Drysdale, John, Singapore: Struggle
in Europe. He died in Torquay, England, on
the 1
for Success (Times Books Intl. 1984); Hassan, Riaz, ed., Sin-
July 23, 1875. See also SEWING MACHINE.
mon
gapore: Society in Transition (Oxford 1976); Nair, C. V.
comi
Devan, Socialism that Works: The Singapore Way (Federal
SINGH, Govind. See GOVIND SINGH.
were
Publications 1977); Quah, Jon S. T., Government and Poli-
tics of Singapore (Oxford 1985); Turnbull, C. M., A History
spiel
of Singapore, 1819-1975, 5th ed. (Oxford 1984).
SINGING. See VOICE.
to G.
us + Asia statistical Handbook, 1990
E.
(Billions of US$
SINGAPORE
1983
198
LAND
GDP
17.30
19.13
Area: 239 square miles
Growth
8.2%
8.3%
Cultivated: 9.5%
Forest: 4.6%
Pasture: 0%
CPI Rise
1.2%
2.6%
Resources: none
Exports
21.832
24.07
to U.S.
2.969
4.12
POPULATION
Annual Growth: 1.1%
Imports
28.158
28.66
1989 Estimate: 2,674,000
Literacy: 87%
from U.S.
3.759
3.67:
Life Expectancy: 74
Infant Mortality: 9
Fertility: 1.6
CurAccount
-0.610
-0.38
Ethnic Divisions: Chinese: 76.4%, Malay: 14.9%, Indian: 6.4%
Singapore is the
Workforce: 1,280,000
Unemployment: 2.0%
MILITARY
Commerce and Services: 60.0%
Manufacturing: 28.5%
1989/90 Military Budget: US$ 1,50
Agriculture and Fishing: 0.4%
Construction: 5.0%
Increase over 1988/89: 13.6%
Government and Public Authorities: 5.5%
Outlay as a share of GNP:4.8%
Students: Primary and Secondary: 464,250
University: 46,900
As a share of Government Spendin
Total Regular Forces: 55,500
POLITICAL
Army: 45,000
R
Official Name: REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE
Navy: 4,500
A!
Capital: Singapore
Type of Government: One-Party Dominant Republic
Combat Aircraft: 188
Chief of State: President WEE Kim Wee
Naval Vessels: 1 Corvette, 6 Fast-A
Head of Government: Prime Minister LEE Kwan Yew
Minesweepers
Foreign Minister: WONG Kan Seng
Security Alliance with U.S.: none, :
1990 Freedom House Index (1 is highest, 7 is lowest)
excercise together
Political Freedom: 4
Civil Liberties: 4
U.S. Military Installations: U.S. W
1989 Voting with U.S. at U.N.: 14.61%
agreement
U.S. Military Personnel: none
FY 1989 U.S. Foreign Assistance (Actual Obligations)
Foreign Military Personnel: Austr
Economic: none
Military: US$ 50,000
advisers; New Zealand: 20
ECONOMY
Armed Opposition Groups: none
Currency: Singapore Dollar, 1 US$ = 1.904 S$
INVESTMENT
Major Industries: petroleum refining, rubber processing, electronics, food processing,
1989 U.S. Direct Investment: US$
ship repair, garments
1989 Singaporean Direct Investm
Major Agricultural Products: hogs, poultry, orchids, vegetables
Major Imports: capital equipment, manufactured goods, crude oil, transport equipment,
consumer goods
Major Exports:machinery, manufactured goods, transport equipment, refined petroleum,
rubber, electronics
Per Capita GNP: US$ 9,000 (1989)
72
SINGAPORE
Economic Statistics
(Billions of US$, percentages where appropriate)
E
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
GDP
17.30
19.13
18.33
19.26
20.72
22.31
24.0
Growth
8.2%
8.3%
-1.6%
1.7%
8.8%
11.0%
9.2%
Pasture: 0%
CPI Rise
1.2%
2.6%
0.5%
-1.4%
0.5%
1.5%
3.0%
Exports
21.832
24.070
22.812
22.501
28.696
39.318
44.769
to U.S.
2.969
4.121
4.412
4.884
6.395
8.223
9.178
Imports
28.158
28.667
26.237
25.513
32.626
43.869
49.694
!%
from U.S.
3.759
3.675
3.476
3.380
4.053
5.739
7.353
CurAccount
-0.610
-0.385
-0.004
0.542
0.539
1.660
2.1
dian: 6.4%
Singapore is the 11th largest U.S. trading partner
0%
MILITARY
Manufacturing: 28.5%
1989/90 Military Budget: US$ 1,500,000,000
Construction: 5.0%
Increase over 1988/89: 13.6%
Outlay as a share of GNP:4.8%
University: 46,900
As a share of Government Spending: 27%
Total Regular Forces: 55,500
Army: 45,000
Reserves: 212,000
Navy: 4,500
Airforce: 6,000
Combat Aircraft: 188
Naval Vessels: 1 Corvette, 6 Fast-Attack Craft (missile), 20 Inshore Patrol Craft, 2
ew
Minesweepers
Security Alliance with U.S.: none, although U.S. and Singaporean forces periodically
t)
excercise together
U.S. Military Installations: U.S. will station aircraft in Singapore under a recently signed
agreement
U.S. Military Personnel: none
ns)
Foreign Military Personnel: Australian: 50 Army, some RAAF, small number of
000
advisers; New Zealand: 20
Armed Opposition Groups: none
INVESTMENT
essing, electronics, food processing,
1989 U.S. Direct Investment: US$ 2,213,000,000
1989 Singaporean Direct Investment in the U.S.: US$ 1,216,000,000
is, vegetables
goods, crude oil, transport equipment,
ansport equipment, refined petroleum,
73
World Factbook 1990
Singapore
IRC, ITU, Mano River Union, NAM,
US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral
commitments (1970-87), $698 million;
10 km
OAU, OIC, UN, UNESCO, UPU,
WHO, WMO, WTO
OPEC bilateral aid (1979-89), $18 million;
Pulau
Diplomatic representation: Ambassador
Communist countries (1970-88), $101 mil-
Selat
Tekong
Johor
Selat
Pulau
George CAREW; Chancery at 1701 19th
lion
Woodlands
Johor
Ubin
Besar
Street NW, Washington DC 20009; tele-
Currency: leone (plural-leones); 1 leone
phone (202) 939-9261; US-Ambassador
(Le) = 100 cents
Changi
Johnny YOUNG; Embassy at the corner
Exchange rates: leones per US$1-
Jurong
of Walpole and Siaka Stevens Street,
87.7193 (January 1990), 58.1395 (1989),
Freetown; telephone 26481
31.2500 (1988), 30.7692 (1987), 8.3963
SINGAPORE
Flag: three equal horizontal bands of light
(1986), 4.7304 (1985)
Sentosa
green (top), white, and light blue
Fiscal year: 1 July-30 June
0
Communications
Singapore Strait
Economy
Main Strait
Overview: The economic and social infra-
Railroads: 84 km 1.067-meter narrow-
structure is not well developed. Subsis-
gauge mineral line is used on a limited
See regional map 1X
tence agriculture dominates the economy,
basis because the mine at Marampa is
generating about one-third of GDP and
closed
employing about two-thirds of the working
Highways: 7,400 km total; 1,150 km bitu-
Geography
population. Manufacturing accounts for
minous, 490 km laterite (some gravel), re-
less than 10% of GDP, consisting mainly
mainder improved earth
Total area: 632.6 km²; land area: 622.6
of the processing of raw materials and of
Inland waterways: 800 km; 600 km navi-
km²
light manufacturing for the domestic mar-
gable year round
Comparative area: slightly less than 3.5
ket. Diamond mining provides an impor-
Ports: Freetown, Pepel
times the size of Washington, DC
tant source of hard currency. The econ-
Civil air: no major transport aircraft
Land boundaries: none
omy suffers from high unemployment,
Airports: 12 total, 8 usable; 5 with
Coastline: 193 km
rising inflation, large trade deficits, and a
permanent-surface runways; none with
Maritime claims:
growing dependency on foreign assistance.
runways over 3,659 m; 1 with runways
Exclusive fishing zone: not specific
GDP: $965 million, per capita $250; real
2,440-3,659 m; 3 with runways
Territorial sea: 3 nm
growth rate 1.8% (FY87)
1,220-2,439 m
Climate: tropical; hot, humid, rainy; no
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 42% (Sep-
Telecommunications: marginal telephone
pronounced rainy or dry seasons; thunder-
tember 1988)
and telegraph service; national microwave
storms occur on 40% of all days (67% of
Unemployment rate: NA%
radio relay system unserviceable at
days in April)
Budget: revenues $86 million; expenditures
present; 23,650 telephones; stations-1
Terrain: lowland; gently undulating cen-
$128 million, including capital expendi-
AM, 1 FM, 1 TV; 1 Atlantic Ocean
tral plateau contains water catchment
tures of $NA (FY90 est.)
INTELSAT earth station
area and nature preserve
Exports: $106 million (f.o.b., 1988); com-
Natural resources: fish, deepwater ports
modities-rutile 50%, bauxite 17%, cocoa
Defense Forces
Land use: 4% arable land; 7% permanent
11%. diamonds 3%, coffee 3%; partners-
crops; 0% meadows and pastures; 5% for-
US, UK, Belgium, FRG, other Western
Branches: Army, Navy
est and woodland; 84% other
Europe
Military manpower: males 15-49, 918,078;
Environment: mostly urban and industrial-
Imports: $167 million (c.i.f., 1988); com-
433,350 fit for military service; no con-
ized
modities-capital goods 40%, food 32%,
scription
Note: focal point for Southeast Asian sea
petroleum 12%, consumer goods 7%, light
Defense expenditures: 1% of GDP (1986)
routes
industrial goods; partners-US, EC, Ja-
pan, China, Nigeria
People
External debt: $805 million (1989 est.)
Industrial production: growth rate - 19%
Population: 2,720,915 (July 1990), growth
(FY88 est.)
rate 1.3% (1990)
Electricity: 83,000 kW capacity; 180 mil-
Birth rate: 18 births/1,000 population
lion kWh produced, 45 kWh per capita
(1990)
(1989)
Death rate: 5 deaths/1,000 population
Industries: mining (diamonds, bauxite,
(1990)
rutile), small-scale manufacturing (bever-
Net migration rate: 0 migrants/1,000 pop-
ages, textiles, cigarettes, footwear), petro-
ulation (1990)
leum refinery
Infant mortality rate: 8 deaths/1,000 live
Agriculture: accounts for over 30% of
births (1990)
GDP and two-thirds of the labor force;
Life expectancy at birth: 72 years male,
largely subsistence farming; cash crops-
77 years female (1990)
coffee, cocoa, palm kernels; harvests of
Total fertility rate: 2.0 children born/
th.
food staple rice meets 80% of domestic
woman (1990)
needs; annual fish catch averages 53,000
Nationality: noun-Singaporean(s), adjec-
metric tons
tive-Singapore
D.
Aid: US commitments, including Ex-Im
Ethnic divisions: 76.4% Chinese, 14.9%
PU.
(FY70-88), $149 million; Western (non-
Malay, 6.4% Indian, 2.3% other
279
Singapore (continued)
Religion: majority of Chinese are Bud-
ESCAP, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD,
Electricity: 4,000,000 kW capacity;
dhists or atheists; Malays nearly all Mus-
ICAO, IFC, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO,
12,000 million kWh produced, 4,490 kWh
lim (minorities include Christians, Hindus,
INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IPU, ISO,
per capita (1989)
Sikhs, Taoists, Confucianists)
ITU, NAM, UN, UNESCO, UPU,
Industries: petroleum refining, electronics,
Language: Chinese, Malay, Tamil, and
WHO, WMO, WTO
oil drilling equipment, rubber processing
English (official); Malay (national)
Diplomatic representation: Ambassador
and rubber products, processed food and
Literacy: 86.8% (1987)
Tommy KOH Tong Bee; Chancery at
beverages, ship repair, entrepôt trade, fi-
Labor force: 1,280,000; 34.4% industry,
1824 R Street NW, Washington DC
nancial services, biotechnology
1.2% agriculture, 61.7% services (1988)
20009; telephone (202) 667-7555; US-
Agriculture: occupies a position of minor
Organized labor: 211,200; 16.5% of labor
Ambassador Robert D. ORR; Embassy at
importance in the economy; self-sufficient
force (1988)
30 Hill Street, Singapore 0617 (mailing
in poultry and eggs; must import much of
address is FPO San Francisco 96699);
other food; major crops-rubber, copra,
Government
telephone [65] 338-0251
fruit, vegetables
Flag: two equal horizontal bands of red
Aid: US commitments, including Ex-Im
Long-form name: Republic of Singapore
(top) and white; near the hoist side of the
(FY70-83), $590 million; Western (non-
Type: republic within Commonwealth
red band, there is a vertical, white cres-
US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral
Capital: Singapore
cent (closed portion is toward the hoist
commitments (1970-87), $882 million
Administrative divisions: none
side) partially enclosing five white five-
Currency: Singapore dollar (plural-dol-
Independence: 9 August 1965 (from Ma-
pointed stars arranged in a circle
lars); I Singapore dollar (S$) = 100 cents
laysia)
Exchange rates: Singapore dollars per
Constitution: 3 June 1959, amended 1965;
Economy
US$1-1.8895 (January 1990), 1.9503
based on preindependence State of Singa-
(1989), 2.0124 (1988), 2.1060 (1987),
pore Constitution
Overview: Singapore has an open entrepre-
2.1774 (1986), 2.2002 (1985)
Legal system: based on English common
neurial economy with strong service and
Fiscal year: 1 April-31 March
law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ ju-
manufacturing sectors and excellent inter-
risdiction
national trading links derived from its en-
Communications
National holiday: National Day, 9 August
trepôt history. During the 1970s and early
(1965)
1980s, the economy expanded rapidly,
Railroads: 38 km of 1.000-meter gauge
Executive branch: president, prime minis-
achieving an average annual growth rate
Highways: 2,597 km total (1984)
ter, two deputy prime ministers, Cabinet
of 9%. Per capita GDP is among the high-
Ports: Singapore
Legislative branch: unicameral Parliament
est in Asia. In 1985 the economy regis-
Merchant marine: 407 ships (1,000 GRT
Judicial branch: Supreme Court
tered its first drop in 20 years and
or over) totaling 7,286,824 GRT/
Leaders: Chief of State-President WEE
achieved less than a 2% increase in 1986.
11,921,610 DWT; includes 126 cargo, 52
Kim Wee (since 3 September 1985);
Recovery was strong. Estimates for 1989
container, 5 roll-on/roll-off cargo, 11 re-
Head of Government-Prime Minister
suggest a 9.2% growth rate based on ris-
frigerated cargo, 13 vehicle carrier, I live-
LEE Kuan Yew (since 5 June 1959); First
ing demand for Singapore's products in
stock carrier, 103 petroleum, oils, and lu-
Deputy Prime Minister GOH Chok Tong
OECD countries, a strong Japanese yen,
bricants (POL) tanker, 5 chemical tanker,
(since 2 January 1985); Second Deputy
and improved competitiveness of domestic
4 combination ore/oil, I specialized
Prime Minister ONG Teng Cheong (since
manufactures.
tanker, 15 liquefied gas, 68 bulk, 3 combi-
2 January 1985)
GDP: $27.5 billion, per capita $10,300;
nation bulk; note-many Singapore flag
Political parties and leaders:
real growth rate 9.2% (1989 est.)
ships are foreign owned
government-People's Action Party
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3.5%
Civil air: 38 major transport aircraft (est.)
(PAP), Lee Kuan Yew; opposition-Work-
(1989 est.)
Airports: 6 total, 6 usable; 6 with
ers' Party (WP), J. B. Jeyaretnam; Singa-
Unemployment rate: 2% (1989 est.)
permanent-surface runways; 2 with run-
pore Democratic Party (SDP), Chiam See
Budget: revenues $6.6 billion; expenditures
ways over 3,659 m; 2 with runways 2,440-
Tong; National Solidarity Party (NSP),
$5.9 billion, including capital expenditures
3,659 m; 1 with runways 1,220-2,439 m
Soon Kia Seng; United People's Front
of $2.2 billion (FY88)
Telecommunications: good domestic facili-
(UPF), Harbans Singh; Barisan Sosialis
Exports: $46 billion (f.o.b., 1989 est.);
ties; good international service; good radio
(BS); Communist party illegal
commodities-includes transshipments to
and television broadcast coverage;
Suffrage: universal and compulsory at age
Malaysia-petroleum products, rubber,
1,110,000 telephones; stations-13 AM, 4
20
electronics, manufactured goods; part-
FM, 2 TV; submarine cables extend to
Elections: President-last held 31 August
ners-US 24%, Malaysia 14%, Japan 9%,
Malaysia (Sabah and peninsular Malay-
1989 (next to be held NA August 1993);
Thailand 6%, Hong Kong 5%, Australia
sia), Indonesia, and the Philippines; satel-
results-President Wee Kim Wee was
3%, FRG 3%
lite earth stations-1 Indian Ocean
reelected by Parliament without opposi-
Imports: $53 billion (c.i.f., 1989 est.); com-
INTELSAT and 1 Pacific Ocean
tion;
modities-includes transshipments from
INTELSAT
Parliament-last held 3 September 1988
Malaysia-capital equipment, petroleum,
(next to be held NA September 1993);
chemicals, manufactured goods,
Defense Forces
results-PAP 61.8%, WP 18.4%, SDP
foodstuffs; partners-Japan 22%, US 16%,
11.5%, NSP 3.7%, UPF 1.3%, others
Malaysia 15%, EC 12%, Kuwait 1%
Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Army
3.3%; seats-(81 total) PAP 80, SDP 1;
External debt: $5.2 billion (December
Reserve
note-BS has 1 nonvoting seat
1988)
Military manpower: males 15-49, 834,720:
Communists: 200-500; Barisan Sosialis
Industrial production: growth rate 9%
621,497 fit for military service
infiltrated by Communists
(1989 est.)
Defense expenditures: 5% of GDP, or $1.4
Member of: ADB, ANRPC, ASEAN,
billion (1989 est.)
CCC, Colombo Plan, Commonwealth,
280
EUROPA WORLD HANDBOOK
SINGAP(
SINGAPORE
exh a con
Leged to
and obser
Rights. B.
been rele:
Introductory Survey
1968, after
Attention.
December
with a rul.
Location, Climate, Language, Religion, Flag, Capital
constitution, redefining the PAP as a 'National Movement', and
detention
The Republic of Singapore lies in South-East Asia. The country
in October 1984, at the party conference, 11 of the 12 seats 00
bad. howe
comprises one main island and several offshore islands, situated
the main policy-making body, the Central Executive Com-
X cases 1
approximately 124 km (77 miles) north of the Equator, off the
mittee, were won by younger members, expected to appeal to
the accept
southernmost tip of the Malay Peninsula, to which it is linked
the new young generation of Singaporean voters.
the arrest
by a causeway. The climate is equatorial, with a uniformly
At the general election in December 1984 the PAP was again
legislation
high daily and annual temperature varying between 24°C and
returned to power with a large majority in Parliament (which
&tention:
27°C (75°F-80°F). Relative humidity is high, and the average
was now enlarged to 79 seats), but the party lost two seats to
of appeal
annual rainfall is 244 cm (96 in). There are no well-defined wet
opposition parties, and its share of the total votes was reduced
Internal
and dry seasons. There are four official languages-Malay (the
to 62.9% from 75% in 1980. A constitutional amendment.
released.
national language), Chinese (Mandarin), Tamil and English.
approved in July 1984, provided for up to three non-constitu-
remained
The language of administration is English. The principal reli-
ency' parliamentary seats for the opposition (with restricted
A gener
gions are Daoism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity and Hindu-
voting rights) if none were won in the election. One extra seat
system W.
ism. The national flag (proportions 3 by 2) has two equal
was subsequently offered to the losing opposition candidate
were rep
horizontal stripes, of red and white, with a white crescent
with the highest percentage of votes. This seat was refused
which ha
moon and five white stars in the upper hoist. The capital is
however, in January 1985 by the Workers' Party. President
for each
Singapore City.
Devan Nair resigned in March. A new President, Wee Kin
in ethnic
Wee (hitherto the Chairman of the Singapore Broadcasting
ensure t
Recent History
Corporation), was elected in August.
tractice,
In 1826 the East India Company formed the Straits Settle-
During 1986 the Government exhibited signs of increasing
endicapp
ments by the union of Singapore and the dependencies of
intolerance towards its critics. In August 1986 amendments to
The PAP
Penang and Malacca on the Malay Peninsula. They came under
the Parliament (Privileges, Immunities and Powers) Act were
toe was
British rule in 1867 as a Crown Colony. Singapore was occupied
hurriedly adopted, enabling Parliament to fine, expel of
Party, C:
by Japan for three years during the Second World War. At
imprison members who were deemed to have abused their
accred to
the end of the war, following Japan's defeat, Singapore was
parliamentary privileges. In the same month Parliament also
Socialist
governed by a British Military Administration. When civil rule
approved a Newspaper and Printing Presses (Amendmeak)
aready b.
was restored in 1946, Singapore was detached from the other
Act, which empowered the Government to restrict the distribe
fir organ
Straits Settlements and became a separate Crown Colony. A
tion of foreign publications that were deemed to be interfering
aritical of
new constitution, adopted in February 1955, introduced some
in domestic political affairs; the circulation of several foreign
al treat
measure of self-government, and in June 1959 the state
periodicals was subsequently restricted, and in 1987 Lee Kuss
kd fined
achieved complete internal self-government, with Lee Kuan
Yew sued two foreign publications for libel in courts in Malay
Inc. taki
Yew as Prime Minister. The Federation of Malaysia came into
sia and Hong Kong.
eight
being in September 1963, with Singapore as a constituent
In November 1986 one of the Government's princip
would re
state. On 9 August 1965, following irreconcilable differences
opponents, J. B. Jeyaretnam (who was secretary-general of the
Mm. Th
with the central Government in Malaysia, Singapore seceded
Workers' Party and one of the two opposition members
3 Cho
from the federation and became an independent country. In
Parliament), was sentenced to one month's imprisonment
whosen St
September 1965 it joined the UN, and in October it became a
fined S $5,000 (enough, according to the Constitution,
abisory
member of the Commonwealth. In December Singapore was
deprive him of his parliamentary seat and prevent him from
Fortrame
proclaimed a republic, with a President as constitutional Head
standing for election for five years), when the Supreme Cost:
year
of State. In May 1973 the last major ties with Malaysia,
upheld a conviction for perjury in connection with bankruptry years
is
No'
concerning currency and finance, were broken. In September
proceedings brought against the Workers' Party four
a
1972 Lee Kuan Yew's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) won
previously. In February 1987 Jeyaretnam was also fined make by
@ccerni
all 65 parliamentary seats in a general election that was also
parliamentary committee for abuse of privilege, having
tholic
contested by five opposition parties.
allegations of government interference the
weekers
After independence the Government supported a strong
further fines were imposed on him for
of
US military presence in South-East Asia. However, with the
for alleged contempt of Parliament and abuse of parliaments
accounts of an earlier hearing of the committee and (in
prop.
collapse of US influence in the area during 1974 and 1975,
Singapore adopted a conciliatory attitude towards the People's
privilege. In October Jeyaretnam's removal from the
Republic of China and its communist neighbours. The Govern-
Society register was ordered by a three-judge court. An appoy!
mekes,
Durch
ment called for the removal of foreign bases from member-
to the Judicial Committee of the
states of the Association of South-East Asian Nations
Kingdom (the highest court of appeal
(ASEAN), and advocated a policy of neutrality. From 1976
in October 1988, in his reinstatement as a
onwards Singapore aimed to consolidate its trade links with
During the course of the
bed)
China, although diplomatic relations were not established until
Jeyaretnam's previous be
1982. After the Vietnamese-backed seizure of power in Kampu-
'fatally flawed'. However; since the criminal case
Dr
chea (now Cambodia) in 1979, Singapore supported the UN
considered in the District Court, where there was
DE
decision to continue to recognize the Khmer Rouge
appeal to the Privy Council, the original
Government-in-exile, and in 1982, with the other members of
pardon. In May 1989 Wee Kim Wee refused to grant a -
Jeyaretnam from re-entering Parliament persion
ASEAN, Singapore recognized the anti-Vietnamese tripartite
2
coalition Government-in-exile of Democratic Kampuchea. In
to Jeyaretnam. In November 1990 was
December 1986 New Zealand announced that it would with-
guilty of slandering Lee during his
draw its defence force, stationed in Singapore since 1955,
and was obliged to pay damages of S
to
over the next three years, following assurances from the
Government of Singapore that it had developed an adequate
Minister. In May and June 1987 the Government 22 personal
/
B
defence structure to fulfil Singapore's needs.
(including 10 Roman Catholic church
At general elections in December 1976 and December 1980,
members of Jeyaretnam's Workers'
the PAP won all 69 seats in the enlarged Parliament. The
the Internal Security Act, for alleged THE THE
S
PAP's monopoly ended in October 1981, however, when a
denounced by Jeyaretnam, who claimed that the Govena would
conspiracy' to subvert state organizations. The arrests
J.
candidate of the opposition Workers' Party won a by-election.
This posed no direct threat but, in order to reassert its
wished to intimidate Singaporeans SO that
#
authority, the Government increased its control over trade
support opposition parties. In November the
unions and restructured the ownership of major newspapers.
also criticized by international human rights
In November 1982 the PAP approved amendments to the party
Amnesty International, for its refusal to present
2334
NGAPORE
Introductory Survey
conspiracy in court; they requested an inquiry into the
of the President, formerly elected by Parliament to a largely
detainees, and urged Singapore to sign
ceremonial position, were initially proposed by Lee in 1984,
Covenant on Civil and Political
and were criticized by members of opposition parties as being
of the alleged conspirators had
intended to accommodate Lee, following his resignation as
THE PATTE THE THE them were rearrested in April
Prime Minister. However, Lee stated, during the 1988 election
they had been tortured while in
campaign, that he would not be a candidate in the first
Ship Four were released by June 1988, and in
presidential election under the new system. Parliament
four detainees were released in accordance
approved the legislation to amend the Constitution by 75
the Court of Appeal, based on a fault in their
votes to one (the single dissenting vote was cast by the only
Iovement'
- immediately rearrested. The trial
opposition MP with full voting rights, Chiam See Tong). Under
the 12 seats
precedent for the judicial review
the amendment, Wee Kim Wee was to continue in office until
S. ed to appeal
xecutive Cop
Internal Security Act, including
October 1993. Candidates for the presidency were limited to
courts of evidence used in warrants for
those who had held the post of a minister, chief justice or
E that the judiciary could examine such
In January 1989 Parliament approved
senior civil servant or were at the head of a large company.
PAP
was
The candidates were to be scrutinized by a new presidential
liament (when
Mentions only technical grounds, and abolishing the right
election committee, which was to comprise the head of the
st two seats
sppeal Security Act. In March 1989 three detainees were
to the Privy Council in cases brought under the
Society of Accountants, the Chairman of the Public Service
es was reduct
Commission and a member of the Presidential Council of
il amendment
Internal The two remaining prisoners (of the original 22)
Human Rights. The latter two officials were appointed by the
remained misased. in detention until June 1990.
Government, prompting fears that the selected candidates
restrical
election was held in September 1988. The electoral
would be those favoured by the PAP. The constitutional
One extra
that 39 of the existing 79 constituencies
amendment also included a clause increasing the number of
tion candider
'group representation constituencies',
candidates required to contest a 'group representation consti-
i was refuse
STATE had had had had to had ha by teams of three representatives
tuency' in a general election to a minimum of three and a
arty. Preside
each party, at least one of whom was to be a member of
maximum of four, one of whom was to be a member of an
lent, Broadcast Wee
ethnic minority (i.e. non-Chinese). The declared aim was to
ethnic minority.
insure the presence of racial minorities in Parliament; in
In early 1991 the Government promoted the acceptance of
however, opposition parties with few resources were
five 'shared values', based on Confucian philosophy, as the
mendments of increasi
practice, dicapped by the difficulty of presenting three candidates.
basis of a national ideology, first discussed in January 1989.
PAP won 80 of the elective seats (which now totalled 81);
Critics alleged that the ideology would be used to reinforce
vers) Act were
The
was gained by the leader of the Singapore Democratic
support for the PAP and to obviate opposition challenges.
ine, expel
Chiam See Tong. Two 'non-constituency' seats were
Relations with the USA were adversely affected in 1988 by
abused
the
Party, All to Francis Seow (Workers' Party) and Lee Siew Choh
allegations of official abuses of human rights in Singapore, by
arliament
Cocialist Front). In December, however, while Seow (who had
the US decision (in February) to withdraw preferential tariff
(Amendma
dready been detained in May under the Internal Security Act
treatment for imports from Singapore, and by the expulsion
ct the distri
be organizing a meeting between a US diplomat and lawyers
from Singapore (in May) of the First Secretary at the US
be interfers
exical of the Government) was in the USA, undergoing med-
Embassy for alleged involvement in domestic politics, through
several foreign
1987 Lee
al treatment, he was convicted in absentia for tax evasion
meeting lawyers critical of the Government. The USA denied
urts in Mabi
and fined S $19,000, which meant that he was legally prevented
these allegations and responded by expelling a Singaporean
from taking his seat in Parliament. In January 1989 Lee began
diplomat from Washington.
eighth term as Prime Minister, and announced that he
As a member of ASEAN (see p. 103), Singapore was active
nt's principal
sould retire from the premiership before the expiry of the
during the 1980s, in encouraging a peaceful settlement in
general of
Mrm. This announcement was followed by a statement from
Cambodia, favouring the establishment of a neutral govern-
1 members
risonment
Cob Chok Tong (the First Deputy Prime Minister and Lee's
ment in that country. Relations with Indonesia improved in
chosen successor) that Lee was adopting a secondary and more
the late 1980s: the process of establishing joint military training
institution
advisory role in the government of the country. In August
facilities with Indonesia, which had begun in 1986, was
ent him in
Parliament unanimously re-elected Wee Kim Wee for a further
accomplished in February and March 1989 by the signing of
upreme Code
fur-year term as President.
two agreements. Relations with other members of ASEAN
th bankrupt.ru
In November 1989 Lee was awarded damages in the High
deteriorated when Singapore offered to accommodate some of
ty four years
Court against a magazine which had published an article
the US military facilities which had hitherto been stationed in
lso fined by
excerning the Government's attitude towards the Roman
the Philippines. The Governments of Malaysia and Indonesia,
having may
Catholic Church. This followed the detention of 10 Catholic
in particular, felt that such a development would undermine
judiciary, and
workers in 1987 (see above). In December, however, a Mainten-
ASEAN proposals to establish a 'Zone of Peace, Freedom and
.ng 'distorte'
sace of Religious Harmony Bill was introduced in Parliament.
Neutrality' in South-East Asia. In November 1990, however,
and (in May
it proposed the prohibition of 'religious subversives' from
representatives of the Governments of the USA and Singapore
arliamentary
addressing congregations or holding office in religious publi-
signed an agreement providing the US navy and air force with
om the Law
cations, on penalty of imprisonment. The Roman Catholic
increased access to existing bases in Singapore.
rt. An appeal
n the United
Church expressed the fear that the legislation, if enacted,
Despite the establishment of important economic links during
ore) resulted
seight be used to stifle legitimate criticism of the Government.
the 1980s, Singapore's relations with the People's Republic of
ising lawyer.
Nevertheless, the law was approved by Parliament in
China were adversely affected by the perceived threat of
November 1990.
Chinese domination, owing to the preponderance of ethnic
gations into
hey had been
In early 1990 Parliament had approved legislation enabling
Chinese in Singapore (76% at mid-1989). Relations were also
strained by Singapore's close military and economic ties with
'se had been
the Government to nominate as many as six unelected MPs.
.S no right of
This provoked limited opposition from PAP MPs. The politi-
Taiwan. In October 1990, however, Singapore and the People's
only neutral nominated MPs would be appointed for two years
Republic of China established diplomatic relations at ambassa-
ns prevented
1 presidentis
and would be able to vote on all legislative proposals except
dorial level. This development was prompted mainly by the
those concerning financial and constitutional affairs.
resumption of diplomatic relations between the People's
ant a parder
On 28 November 1990 Lee was duly replaced as Prime
Republic of China and Indonesia, and followed a visit by the
1 was found
Minister by Goh Chok Tong. Lee remained in the Cabinet as
Chinese Premier, Li Peng, to Singapore in August. Singapore's
aign in 1938
Senior Minister to the Prime Minister's Office and retained
relations with Taiwan were apparently unaffected by these
0 the Print
the position of Secretary-General of the PAP. The other major
events.
d 22 person
changes to Lee's former Cabinet were the promotion of his
NO. Brig.-Gen. Lee Hsien Loong, to be a Deputy Prime
Government
'S and for
trial, under
Minister and the creation of a new Ministry for Information
Legislative power is vested in the unicameral Parliament, with
in a Marxis
and the Arts, under Brig.-Gen. George Yeo, previously the
81 members who are elected by universal adult suffrage for
arrests was
Vinister of State for Finance and Foreign Affairs.
five years (subject to dissolution) in single-member and multi-
Government
In January 1991 the Constitution was amended to provide
member constituencies. From 1993 the President (currently
would
br a popularly-elected presidency with extensive powers of
elected by Parliament to perform mainly ceremonial functions)
ernment
was
seto on proposed financial legislation, a role as final arbiter in
is to be directly elected by universal adult suffrage for a four-
ps, includes
eases of detention for reasons of national security, and influence
year term as a constitutional Head of State, vested with certain
evidence
a civil and military appointments. The changes to the functions
powers of veto in financial matters, public appointments and
2335
SINGAPORE
Introductory Survey
SING,
detentions for reasons of national security. Effective executive
In 1985 Singapore experienced a short recession, caused
authority rests with the Cabinet, led by the Prime Minister,
mainly by high domestic labour costs and by an increase
(Nation
which is appointed by the President and responsible to Par-
in direct trading by Malaysia and Indonesia, which reduced
(Christ
liament.
Singapore's traditional entrepôt trade. Several measures were
Weigh
subsequently implemented to reduce labour costs, including &
Defence
successful policy of wage restraint. In the late 1980s and early
The m.
In June 1990 the Singapore armed forces had an estimated
1990s many state-owned corporations were transferred to the
also us
55,500 troops: 45,000 in the army, 4,500 in the navy and 6,000
private sector. Foreign and local companies were encouraged
in the air force. Military service is compulsory for 30 months
to invest overseas and particularly to transfer labour-intensive
(24 months for officers). Paramilitary forces comprised 11,600
operations to neighbouring countries. In 1990 Singapore inten-
police and a civil defence force numbering an estimated 100,000.
sified activity in the 'triangle of growth', which encompassed
Singapore is a participant in the Five-Power Defence Arrange-
Johore, in southern Malaysia, and the Riau Islands in Indo-
ments (with Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand and the United
nesia. The aim was to combine the inexpensive labour and
Kingdom). Government expenditure on defence for the financial
unexploited space of these developing countries with Singa-
year 1990/91 was projected at S $3,486m. (24.5% of total expen-
pore's sophisticated infrastructure. Growth in productivity,
diture).
which had been rapid in the late 1980s, was expected to
decelerate in the early 1990s, owing to recessionary conditions
Economic Affairs
in the economies of principal trading partners. Singapore aimed
In 1989, according to estimates by the World Bank, Singapore's
to attract higher value-added research and development indus-
gross national product (GNP), measured at average 1987-89
tries, to compensate for its labour shortage and for the result-
prices, was US $28,058m., equivalent to US $10,450 per head.
ant upward pressure on wages and inflation.
During 1980-89, it was estimated, GNP increased, in real
AREA
terms, at an average annual rate of 6.9%, while real GNP per
head increased by 5.7% per year. Over the same period, the
Social Welfare
Area
population increased by an annual average of 1.2%. Singapore's
The Ministry of Community Development, aided by 159 volun-
Popul:
gross domestic product (GDP) increased, in real terms, by an
tary bodies which are co-ordinated by the Singapore Council
22
annual average of 5.7% in 1980-88 and by 9.2% in 1989.
of Social Service, provides a wide range of welfare services to
24
Agriculture (including hunting, forestry and fishing) contrib-
individuals and families in need. Singapore has no state pen-
Ma
uted an estimated 0.3% of GDP, and employed 0.3% of the
sions or sickness benefit, but there is a Central Provident
Fe-
working population, in 1990. Fruit and vegetables are the
Fund into which contributions must be paid by employers and
To
principal crops. During 1980-87 agricultural production
employees. In 1986 Singapore had 10 government hospitals,
Popula
declined at an average annual rate of 5.1%.
with a total of 8,085 beds. There were also 12 private hospitals,
1987
Industry (including mining, manufacturing, construction and
with a total of 2,082 beds. In 1987 a total of 2,939 physicians
1988
power) contributed about 33.4% of GDP, and employed 35.7%
were registered to practise in Singapore. Of total expenditure
1989
of the working population, in 1990. During 1980-88 industrial
by the central Government in the financial year 1987/88,
Densit
production increased by an annual average of 4.5%.
S $548m. (3.6%) was for health services, and a further S $196m
Mining (chiefly the quarrying of granite) accounted for only
(1.3%) for social security and welfare.
241.9
about 0.1% of GDP and 0.03% of employment in 1990.
Excl
Manufacturing contributed an estimated 26.4% of GDP, and
ciled
employed 28.9% of the working population, in 1990. In 1988
(5,18
Education
the principal branches of manufacturing (measured in terms of
the value of output) were electrical machinery (42%);
Primary and secondary education is available in the four official
petroleum-refining and related products; chemicals; machinery;
languages of Malay, Chinese, Tamil and English. In 1978,
ETHN
transport equipment (especially shipbuilding); food products;
part of a policy of bilingualism, examinations in English and
and clothing. During 1980-88 manufacturing production
Mandarin Chinese became compulsory for pupils seeking to
Chine
increased by an annual average of 4.8%.
enter secondary education. In 1987 English became the medium
Malay
of instruction in all schools. The New Education System (pri-
India:
Singapore relies on imports of hydrocarbons to fuel its three
mary and secondary levels) allows less able pupils to complete
Other
thermal power stations. In 1989 imports of mineral fuels
their education over a longer period of time, if they choose
Total
accounted for 14% of merchandise imports.
Finance and business services provided 29.7% of GDP in
After three years' primary education, pupils are streamed inso
1990. By 1988 Singapore had replaced Hong Kong as the
a bilingual course (six years), an extended bilingual course
second most active foreign exchange dealing centre in Asia and
(eight years) or a monolingual course (eight years). Secondary
the Pacific (after Tokyo), with a daily turnover of US $45,000m.
school streaming depends on the result of the Primary School
BIRT
Banking is also a significant sector, with a total of 137 com-
Leaving Examinations. In June 1989 there were 401 primary
mercial banks in operation in 1991. Tourism is an important
and secondary schools, with a total enrolment of 456,909 pupil
source of foreign exchange. In 1989 tourist arrivals totalled
Outside the school system there are several higher education
4.8m. (5.3m. in 1990) and receipts from tourism reached
centres and vocational institutes, providing craft and industrial crait
S $5,669.1m.
training, and technical institutes providing advanced
In 1989 Singapore recorded a visible trade deficit of
training. Total enrolment in the six universities and college
US $2,474m., but there was a surplus of US $2,338m. on the
was 50,756 in 1989. Adult education courses are conducted 1960
Ben
current account of the balance of payments. In 1989 the
the number of children attending primary and seconds the
a statutory board. Education is not compulsory but in
principal source of imports (21.4%) was Japan. The principal
Keg
market for exports (23.3%) was the USA. Other major trading
schools was equivalent to 87% of both boys and girls in 4.
partners include Malaysia, Hong Kong, Thailand and Germany.
relevant age-group. The rate of literacy, among persons cde
Principal imports in 1989 included electronic components, elec-
10 years and above, was 87.2% in 1988. Expenditure on 1987 SV
trical circuit apparatus, chemicals, paper products and rubber.
cation by the central Government in the financial year
Principal exports included petrochemical products, integrated
was S $2,204m. (14.4% of total spending).
circuits, data-processing machines, printed circuits, cassette
recorders and radio and television receivers. Singapore is an
important entrepôt, and re-exports accounted for 37.3% of total
Public Holidays
exports in 1988.
1991: 1 January (New Year's Day), 15-16 (Chiness
In the financial year ending 31 March 1991 there was an
estimated budgetary surplus of $6,079m. The annual rate of
New Year), 29 March (Good Friday), 16
inflation averaged 1.2% in 1980-88, rising to 2.4% in 1989 and
Puasa, end of Ramadan), 1 May (Labour
Day), 23 June (Hari Raya Haji, feast of the Sacrifice)
to 3.4% in 1990. Only 1.7% of the labour force were unemployed
August (National Day), 5 November (Deepavali), 25 December
in 1990. However, owing to the labour shortage (mainly in the
industrial and construction sectors), there were about 200,000
(Christmas Day).
foreign workers in Singapore in 1990.
1992: 1 January (New Year's
Singapore is a member of the Asian Development Bank (see
New Year), 4 April (Hari Raya
p. 100), of ASEAN (see p. 103), and of the Colombo Plan (see
April (Good Friday), 1 May (Labour Day), May/June August
p. 112).
Day), 11 June (Hari Raya Haji, feast of the Sacrifice), 9
2336
SINGAPORE
Directory
Directory
The Constitution
Minister of Health and Senior Minister of State (Foreign
Affairs): YEO CHEOW TONG.
this
constitution came into force on 3 June 1959, with the
Minister of Communications and Second Minister of Defence
ablishment of the self-governing State of Singapore. This was
(Policy): Dr YEO NING HONG.
ON
sequently amended as a consequence of Singapore's affiliation
Minister of Information and the Arts: Brig.-Gen. GEORGE YEO
Malaysia (September 1963 to August 1965) and as a result
(acting).
adoption of republican status on 22 December 1965. The
Perstitution its was also amended in January 1991 to provide for the
MINISTRIES
President by universal adult suffrage, and to extend
responsibilitionial of the presidency, which had previously been
Office of the Prime Minister: Istana Annexe, Istana, Singapore
office. The main provisions of the Constitution
0923; tel. 7375133; fax 7345244.
NY below:
Ministry of Communications: 460 Alexandra Rd, PSA Bldg 39-
00, Singapore 0511; tel. 2707988; telex 25500; fax 2799734.
1939
HEAD OF STATE
Ministry of Community Development: 512 Thomson Rd, MCD
The
Head of State is the President, elected by universal adult
Bldg, Singapore 1129; tel. 2589595; telex 34361.
722
for a four-year term. He normally acts on the advice of
Ministry of Defence: Tanglin Rd, Singapore 1024; tel. 4741155;
6247
Mirage Cabinet, but is vested with certain functions and powers for
telex 21373.
7,125
the and the integrity of the Public Services.
purpose of safeguarding the financial reserves of Singapore
Ministry of Education: Kay Siang Rd, Singapore 1024; tel.
4739111; telex 34366.
THE CABINET
Ministry of the Environment: 40 Scotts Rd, Environment Bldg,
Singapore 0922; tel. 7327733.
The President and is responsible to Parliament.
Cabinet, headed by the Prime Minister, is appointed by the
Ministry of Finance: 8 Shenton Way, 43rd, 45th, 46th and 50th
24,167
Storey, Treasury Bldg, Singapore 0106; tel. 2259911; telex 34371.
99,056
THE LEGISLATURE
Ministry of Foreign Affairs: 250 North Bridge Rd, 07-00 Raffles
City Tower, Singapore 0617; tel. 3361177; telex 21242.
The by a Speaker who may be elected from the members of
Legislature consists of a Parliament of 81 members, presided
Ministry of Health: 16 College Rd, College of Medicine Bldg,
over Patiament themselves or appointed by Parliament although he
Singapore 0316; tel. 2237777; telex 34360; fax 2241677.
not be a member of Parliament. Members of Parliament are
Ministry of Home Affairs: Phoenix Park, Tanglin Rd, Singapore
may directed by universal adult suffrage for five years (subject to
1024; tel. 2359111; telex 34360.
Assolution) in single-member and multi-member constituencies.*
Ministry of Information and the Arts: Singapore.
1999
examines A material of racial or religious significance, including
21-member Presidential Council, chaired by the Chief Justice,
Ministry of Labour: 18 Havelock Rd, Singapore 0105; tel. 5341511;
telex 34364.
legislation, to see whether it differentiates between racial or
13,2223
reigious communities or contains provisions inconsistent with the
Ministry of Law: 250 North Bridge Rd, Raffles City Tower 21-
Endamental liberties of Singapore citizens.
00, Singapore 0617; tel. 3378191; telex 34374.
Ministry of National Development: Telok Ayer St, 5th Storey,
CITIZENSHIP
MND Bldg Annexe B, Singapore 0106; tel. 2221211; telex 34369.
Ceder the Constitution, Singapore citizenship may be acquired
Ministry of Trade and Industry: 8 Shenton Way, Treasury Bldg
other by birth, descent or registration. Persons born when Singa-
48-01, Singapore 0106; tel. 2259911; telex 24702.
pure was a constituent State of Malaysia could also acquire Singa-
pare citizenship by enrolment or naturalization under the
Constitution of Malaysia.
Legislature
A constitutional amendment was introduced in May 1988, where-
by 39 constituencies were merged to form 13 'group represen-
PARLIAMENT
tation constituencies' which would return 'teams' of three
Speaker: TAN Soo KHOON.
Members of Parliament. At least one member of each team was
to be of minority (non-Chinese) racial origin. In January 1991 the
General Election, 3 September 1988
Constitution was further amended, stipulating that the number
1989
of candidates contesting 'group representation constituencies'
Votes
% Seats
should be a minimum of three and a maximum of four.
105,12
People's Action Party
848,029
61.8
80*
Workers' Party
224,473
18.4
-
533,039
The Government
Singapore Democratic Party
158,341
11.5
1
55,406
National Solidarity Party
50,452
3.7
-
HEAD OF STATE
United People's Front
17,282
1.3
-
Singapore Justice Party
14,660
1.1
-
President: WEE KIM WEE (elected 30 August 1985; re-elected 31
PKMS
13,526
1.0
-
August 1989).
Angkatan Islam
280
0.0
-
Independents
15,412
1.1
-
THE CABINET
Total
1,342,455
100.0
81
(May 1991)
Prime Minister and Minister of Defence: GOH CHOK TONG.
* 11 seats were unopposed.
Deputy Prime Minister: ONG TENG CHEONG.
Teachers
Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Trade and Industry and
Second Minister of Defence (Services): Brig.-Gen. (retd) LEE
10,230
ESIEN LOONG.
Political Organizations
9,236
Senior Minister to the Prime Minister's Office: LEE KUAN YEW.
Angkatan Islam (Singapore Muslim Movement): Singapore; f.
Minister of National Development: SUPPIAH DHANABALAN.
1958; Pres. MOHAMED BIN OMAR; Sec.-Gen. IBRAHIM BIN ABDUL
1,957
Minister of Education: Dr TONY TAN KENG YAM.
GHANI.
4,251
25,671
Minister of the Environment: Dr AHMAD MATTAR.
Barisan Bersatu Singapura (Singapore United Front): 67A Lorong
8 Geylang, Singapore 1439; f. 1973; Chair. TAN CHEE KIAN; Sec.-
Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Law: S. JAYAKUMAR.
Gen. SEOW KHEE LENG.
lasses
Winister of Finance: Dr RICHARD Hu Tsu TAU.
National Solidarity Party: Singapore; f. 1986; Pres. KUM TENG
Minister of Foreign Affairs and of Community Development:
HOCK; Sec.-Gen. RASIAH THIAGARAJAH.
WONG KAN SENG.
People's Action Party (PAP): SLF Bldg, 07-02, 510 Thomson Rd,
Minister of Labour: LEE YOCK SUAN.
Singapore 1129; tel. 2589898; fax 2599222; f. 1954; governing party
2341
SINGAPORE
Directory
SINGAPO
since 1959; 12-member Cen. Exec. Cttee; Chair. ONG TENG
CHEONG; Sec.-Gen. LEE KUAN YEW.
Indonesia: 7 Chatsworth Rd, Singapore 1024; tel. 7377422; teles
lation of
21464; Ambassador: TUK SETYOHADI.
Tribunal.
Pertubuhan Kebangsaan Melayu Singapura (PKMS) (Singapore
Israel: 230 Orchard Rd, 11-230 Faber House, Singapore 0923
District (
Malay National Organization): 218F, Changi Rd, PKM Bldg, 4th
Floor, Singapore 1440; tel. 3455275; fax 3458924; f. in 1950 as the
ELIASHIV. tel. 2350966; telex 21975; fax 7337008; Ambassador: Dr ISRAEL
end civil ju
eximum I
United Malay National Organization (UMNO) of Malaysia; renamed
as UMNO Singapore in 1954 and as PKMS in 1967; seeks to
Italy: 101 Thomson Rd, 27-02 United Sq., Singapore 1130; tel
a civil case
2506022; BETTINI. telex 21177; fax 2533301; Ambassador: Dr ROMUALDO
Vagistrate:
advance the implementation of the special rights of Malays in
imprisonme
Singapore, as stated in the Constitution, to safeguard and promote
Vagistrates
the advancement of Islam, to encourage racial harmony and good-
Japan: 16 Nassim Rd, Singapore 1025; tel. 2358855; telex 21351
$$10,000.
will in Singapore and to promote the welfare and advancement of
Ambassador: WASUKE MIYAKE.
Caims Tril
Singaporean citizens; Pres. SAHID SAHOOMAN; Sec.-Gen.
MOHAMMED AZIZ IBRAHIM.
Korea, Democratic People's Republic: 19 Fort Rd, Singapore
arising fron
1543; tel. 3453044; telex 23455; Ambassador: YUN CHONG-KYT.
services in
Singapore Democratic Party: 1 North Bridge Rd, 17-08 High
Korea, Republic: 101 Thomson Rd, United Sq., 10-02/04, Goldhil
Court deals
Street Centre, Singapore 0617; f. 1980; Chair. LING How DOONG;
Sq, Singapore 1130; tel. 2561188; Ambassador: LEE CHANG-CHOON
5 years.
Sec.-Gen. CHIAM SEE TONG.
Malaysia: 301 Jervois Rd, Singapore 1024; tel. 2350111; teles
The High
Singapore Justice Party: Singapore; f. 1972; Pres. A. R. SUIB;
21406; High Commissioner: Dato' K. THARMARATNAM.
and civil ca
Sec.-Gen. MUTHUSAMY RAMASAMY.
dril appeal
Myanmar: 15 St Martin's Drive, Singapore 1025; tel. 7342637
The Court
United People's Front (UPF): 715 Colombo Court, 7th Floor,
telex 21467; fax 2355963; Ambassador: U NYUNT SWE.
Singapore 0617; f. 1975; a coalition of several small parties; Chair.
the High
Netherlands: 541 Orchard Rd, 13-01/04 Liat Towers, Singapore
prisdiction.
ANG BEE LIAN; Gen. Sec. HARBANS SINGH.
0923; tel. 7371155; telex 33815; fax 7371940; Ambassador: D. H. M
decisions m
Workers' Party: Block 145, Jalan Bukit Merah, 01-1112, Singapore
VAN WOERDEN.
criminal jur
0316; tel. 2738109; f. 1957, merged with Barisan Sosialis party in
New Zealand: 13 Nassim Rd, Singapore 1025; tel. 2359966; teles
Appeals f
1988; seeks to establish a democratic socialist govt with a consti-
21244; fax 7339924; High Commissioner: COLIN BELL.
the Priv
tution guaranteeing fundamental citizens' rights; Chair. WONG
HONG Toy; Sec.-Gen. J. B. JEYARETNAM.
Norway: 44-01 Hong Leong Bldg, 16 Raffles Quay, Singapore 0108
when parti
the heari
tel. 2207122; telex 21225; Ambassador: JENS OTTERBECH.
Other parties are the Alliance Party Singapura, the Barisan
the Privy
Sosialis (Socialist Front), the National Party of Singapore, Partai
Pakistan: 20A Nassim Rd, Singapore 1025; tel. 7376621; teles
to the P₁
Rakyat, the People's Front, Parti Kesatuan Ra'ayat (United Demo-
36777; High Commissioner: SALIM NAWAZ GANDABUR (acting).
by the deat
cratic Party), People's Republican Party, Persatuan Melayu Singa-
Panama: 16 Raffles Quay, 41-06 Hong Leong Bldg, Singaport
went that t
pura, Singapore Chinese Party, Singapore Indian Congress, United
0104; tel. 2218677; Ambassador: JORGE LUIS ALEMÁN.
Appeals to t
National Front and United People's Party.
Philippines: 20 Nassim Rd, Singapore 1025; tel. 7373977; teles
Afforney-G.
34445; fax 7339544; Ambassador: FRANCISCO L. BENEDICTO.
Chief Justic
Poland: 100 Beach Rd, 33-10PT/12 Shaw Towers, Singapore 0719
Senior Judg
Diplomatic Representation
tel. 2942513/4; telex 26355; fax 2950016; Ambassador: PAWEL
Telsne Judi
CEISLAR.
Cog JOON S
EMBASSIES AND HIGH COMMISSIONS
Romania: 48 Jalan Harom Setangkai, Singapore 1025; tel. 4683424
KARTHIG
IN SINGAPORE
telex 22184; fax 4683425; Chargé d'affaires a.i.: IOAN BAN.
vicial Co
Argentina: 302 Orchard Rd, 10-04 Tong Bldg, Singapore 0923;
Saudi Arabia: 541 Orchard Rd, 13-03/04 Liat Towers, Singaport
CHIU.
tel. 2354231; telex 23714; Ambassador: CARLOS LUCAS BLANCO.
0923; tel. 7345878; telex 25318; fax 7374657; Chargé d'affaires
Australia: 25 Napier Rd, Singapore 1025; tel. 7379311; telex 21238;
MOHAMMAD A. AL-HAMDAN.
fax 7337134; High Commissioner: ROSALEEN MCGOVERN.
Sri Lanka: Newton Rd, 1307-1312 Goldhill Plaza, Singapore IIM
Bangladesh: 101 Thomson Rd, 06-07, United Sq., Singapore 1130;
tel. 2544595; telex 26869; fax 2507201; High Commissioner. W.
1988 Bud
tel. 2550075; telex 23312; High Commissioner: Maj.-Gen. MOIN UL
JANAKA B. NAKKAWITA.
18.7%
HUSSAIN CHOUDHURY.
Sweden: Devonshire Wing, 111 Somerset Rd, 05-08 PUB BM:
and Lao Zi
Belgium: 10 Anson Rd, 09-24 International Plaza, Singapore 0207;
Singapore 0923; tel. 7342771; telex 23450; fax 7322958; Ambassa
religic
tel. 2207677; telex 23301; fax 2226976; Ambassador: CLAIRE
FINN BERGSTRAND.
Urnated 10
KIRSCHEN.
Switzerland: 1 Swiss Club Link, Singapore 1128; tel. 4685.30
searly 5%. 1
JEWS. F
Brazil: 302 Orchard Rd, 1503/4 Tong Bldg, Singapore 0923; tel.
telex 21501; fax 4668245; Ambassador: KURT 0. WYSS.
7346777; telex 36204; Ambassador: A. B. PORTO DE OLIVEIRA.
Thailand: 370 Orchard Rd, Singapore 0923; tel. 7373372;
uks
Brunei: 7A Tanglin Hill, Singapore 1024; tel. 4743393; telex 24097;
35891; fax 7320778; Ambassador: ASDA JAYANAMA.
High Commissioner: Dato PADUKA AWANG Haji MOHAMMED
Turkey: 20B Nassim Rd, Singapore 1025; tel. 7329211; telex
3498
in Sp
Singaj
YUNOS BIN Haji MOHAMMED HUSSEIN.
Ambassador: Dr RIZA TÜRMEN.
Bulgaria: 15 Scotts Rd, 09-09 Thong Teck Bldg, Singapore 0922;
USSR: 51 Nassim Rd, Singapore 1025; tel. 2351834; telex
tel. 7371111; telex 21204; Ambassador: (vacant).
fax 7334780; Ambassador: ANATOLY MATFEYEVICH DRYUKOV.
Canada: 80 Anson Rd, 14-00 and 15-01 IBM Towers, Singapore
United Kingdom: Tanglin Rd, Singapore 1024; tel. 4739333;
use
KYKO, Buddh Ch
0207; tel. 225-6363; telex 21277; fax 2252450; High Commissioner:
21218; fax 4752320; High Commissioner: GORDON DUGGAN.
Singa;
SEAN BRADY.
USA: 30 Hill St, Singapore 0617; tel. 3380251; telex 42288
Zore 1
Chile: 105 Cecil St, The Octagon 14-01/02, Singapore 0106; tel.
3388472; Ambassador: D. ORR.
2238577; telex 34187; fax 2250677; Ambassador: CARLOS NEGRI
lang, Singap Si:
CHIORRINI.
Bud,
China, People's Republic: 70-76 Dalvey Rd, Singapore 1025; tel.
7343360; telex 36878; fax 7338590; Ambassador: ZHANG QING.
Judicial System
Denmark: 101 Thomson Rd, 13-01/02 United Sq., Singapore 1130;
The judicial power of Singapore is vested in the Supreme d
de
tel. 2503383; telex 24576; Chargé d'affaires: HANS JAKUP KASS.
and in the Subordinate Courts. The Supreme Court consists
C
Dore (
Egypt: 75 Grange Rd, Singapore 1024; tel. 7371811; telex 23293;
High Court, the Court of Appeal and the Court of Criminal 8
mem-
Ambassador: ABBAS ZAKI.
The Chief Justice is appointed by the President, acting
Finland: 101 Thomson Rd, 21-02/03 United Sq., Singapore 1130;
advice of the Prime Minister. The other judges of the
tel. 2544042; telex 21489; fax 2534101; Ambassador: ERIK
HEINRICHS.
Chief Justice. There are 10 judges, including the Chief Justice
Court are appointed in the same way, in consultation
Anglica
and
the Supreme Court. Under a 1979 constitutional amendme:
and
to
the
France: 5 Gallop Rd, Singapore 1025; tel. 4664866; telex 21351;
Ambassador: BERNARD FAUBOURNET DE MONTFERRAND.
position of judicial commissioner of the Supreme Court Cash
to facilitate the disposal of business in the Supreme
of S
Germany: 545 Orchard Rd, 14-01 Far East Shopping Centre,
judicial commissioner has the powers and functions of a fit.
judgets
cabour
Singapore 0923; tel. 7371355; telex 21312; fax 7372653; Ambassador:
is appointed for such period as the President thinks
Dr JOACHIM KAMPMANN.
were two judicial commissioners in 1991.
Holy See: 55 Waterloo St 6, Singapore 0718 (Apostolic Nunciature);
The Subordinate Courts consist of District Courts, Magistry
tel. 3372466; Apostolic Pro-Nuncio: Most Rev. ALBERTO TRICARIO,
Courts, Juvenile Courts, Coroners' Courts and the Small applica
with Orthode act
Titular Archbishop of Sistroniana (resident in Bangkok, Thailand).
Tribunal. District Judges, Magistrates and Coroners are 30
India: 31 Grange Rd, India House, Singapore 0923; tel. 7376777;
on the recommendation of the Chief Justice. There are
telex 25526; fax 7326909; High Commissioner: Y. M. TIWARI.
and Magistrates' Courts, one Juvenile Court and one
Hely
cc
Court. A Referee, appointed by the President on the
Se.
2342
Director
SINGAPORE
Directory
el. 7377422;
the Chief Justice, presides over the Small Claims
108,601 adherents in the country, representing about 4% of the
total population.
Singapore
Courts and Magistrates' Courts have original criminal
Catholic Bishops' Conference of Malaysia, Singapore and Bru-
E E
the years of imprisonment and
surisdiction. Distict.Com try offences for which the
nei: Archbishop's House, 31 Victoria St, Singapore 0718; tel.
amount claimed does not exceed S $50,000.
3378818; f. 1980; Pres. Most Rev. GREGORY YONG Sooi NGEAN,
gapore 1130;
Courts try offences for which the maximum term of
Archbishop of Singapore.
Dr ROMUAL
does not exceed three years. The jurisdiction of
Archbishop of Singapore: Most Rev. GREGORY YONG Sooi
cases is limited to claims of under
NGEAN, Archbishop's House, 31 Victoria St, Singapore 0718; tel.
355;
conducts inquests. The Small
3378818.
telex
212)
has jurisdiction over claims relating to a dispute
Other Christian Churches
CHONGING KYU
-
any contract for the sale of goods or the provision of
amount less than S $2,000. The Juvenile
Brethren Assemblies: Bethesda Hall, 601 Ang Mo Kio Ave 4,
10-02/04,
committed by young persons aged under
Singapore 2056; tel. 4587474; f. 1864; Hon. Sec. LIM TIAN LEONG;
Bethesda (Katong) Church, 19 Pennefather Rd, Singapore 1542;
AM. CHANG-CHAR USE
years. High Court has unlimited original jurisdiction in criminal
Hon. Sec. T. C. KoH.
The dril cases. In its appellate jurisdiction it hears criminal and
Methodist Church in Singapore: 10 Mount Sophia, Singapore
from the District Courts and Magistrates' Courts.
0922; tel. 3375155; fax 3389575; f. 1885; 22,499 mems (July 1990);
:5;
tel.
7342
4d
sppeals Appeal hears appeals from any judgment or order
Bishop Ho CHEE SIN, 50 Barker Rd, Singapore 1130.
SWE.
Court in any civil matter, either in original or appellate
Presbyterian Church: Moderator Rev. DEREK J. KINGSTON; 3
Court of Criminal Appeal hears appeals against
Orchard Rd, cnr Penang Rd, Singapore 0923; tel. 3376681; f. 1856;
Wessions by the High Court in the exercise of its original
services in English, Chinese (Mandarin), Dutch, Indonesian and
crimical Appeals jurisdiction. from the Court of Appeal lie to the Judicial Committee
German; 1,500 mems.
2359966;
Singapore Baptist Convention: c/o Baptist Book Store, 25 Goldhill
LL.
Privy Council, the final appellate court of Singapore, only
Plaza, Singapore 1130; tel. 2506404; fax 2545488; Chair. Rev. M. S.
parties to the proceedings had consented in writing, prior
SONG; Sec. NG HENG FATT.
Singapore
RBECH.
the hearing before the appellate court, to be bound by an Appeal
Other denominations active in Singapore include the Lutheran
the Privy Council. Appeals from the Court of Criminal Appeal
Church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church.
7376621;
the Privy Council only in cases involving crimes punishable
UR (acting)
3 the death penalty or life imprisonment, and then only in the
HINDUISM
AN. ;ldg, Singapore
that the decision of the appellate court was not unanimous.
Aspeals - to the Privy Council are conducted in the United Kingdom.
Hindu Advisory Board: c/o Ministry of Community Development,
Pearl's Hill Terrace, Singapore 0316; tel. 914111; f. 1917; Chair. P.
7373977;
Senney-General: TAN BOON TEIK.
SELVADURAL
NEDICTO.
Dirf Justice: YONG PUNG How.
Singapore ssador.
desion Judge: T. S. SINNATHURAY.
ISLAM
PAWER
Palsne Judges: LAI KEW CHAI, L. P. THEAN, CHAN SEK KEONG,
Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS) (Islamic Religious Coun-
on JOON SENG, CHAO HICK TIN, F. A. CHUA, P. COOMARASWAMY,
cil): c/o Ministry of Community Development, Islamic Centre of
25; tel. 4682
KARTHIGESU.
Singapore, 273 Braddell Road, Singapore 2057; tel. 2568188; fax
N BAN.
Ficial Commissioners: TAN TEOW YEOW, S. RAJENDRAN, LAI
2537572; f. 1968; Pres. SHAFAWI AHMAD.
ers, Singapore
CHIU.
Muslim Missionary Society Singapore (Jamiyah): 31 Lorong 12
argé d'affa
Geylang, Singapore 1439; tel. 7431211; telex 34725; fax 7450160;
Religion
Pres. Haji ABU BAKAR MAIDIN; Sec.-Gen. JAAFAR MAJORI.
Singapore Itm
SIKHISM
ssioner: W.
1988 Buddhists constituted 28.3% of the total population, Chris-
times 18.7% and Daoists (including followers of Confucius, Mencius
Sikh Advisory Board: c/o Ministry of Community Development,
08 PUB Big
Lao Zi) 13.4%. Most of the Chinese community adhere to
Pearl's Hill Terrace, Singapore 0316; Chair. HARBANS SINGH.
Ambassada
date religions. The Muslims, predominantly Malays, comprised an
minated 16% of the population, and the Hindus, mainly Indians,
tel.
everly 5%. There are also small communities of Zoroastrians, Jains
The Press
4685732
and Jews. Freedom of worship is guaranteed by the Constitution.
SS.
Compulsory government scrutiny of newspaper management has
7373372;
telm
BAHÁ'Í FAITH
been in operation since 1974. All newspaper enterprises must be
public companies. In August 1986 there were more than 3,700
National Spiritual Assembly: 68 Lorong 16, Geylang, Assen Bldg,
1; telex 3400
foreign publications circulating in Singapore. The Newspaper and
$4.03 Singapore 1439; tel. 7476192; fax 7475521.
Printing Presses (Amendment) Act 1986 empowers the Govern-
ment to restrict the circulation of foreign periodicals that are
telex 230%
BUDDHISM
deemed to exert influence over readers on domestic political issues.
RYUKOV
The Buddhist Union: 28 Jalan Senyum, Singapore 1441; tel.
An amendment to the Newspaper and Printing Presses Act was
739333; teles
4635959; Chief Abbot YEN PEI.
promulgated in October 1990. Under this amendment, all publi-
GGAN.
The Singapore Buddhist Federation: 50 Lorong 34 Geylang,
cations of which the 'contents and editorial policy were determined
X 42289, fat
Segapore 1439; tel. 7444635.
outside Singapore' and which dealt with politics and current events
in South-East Asia would be required to obtain a ministerial
The Singapore Buddhist Sangha Organization: 50 Lorong 34
licence, renewable annually. The permit would limit the number
Geyiang, Singapore 1439.
of copies sold and require a deposit in case of legal proceedings
World Buddhist Society: Singapore 0409; tel. 2725306.
involving the publication. Permits could be refused or revoked
without any reason being given. In November, however, a state-
CHRISTIANITY
ment was issued exempting 14 of the 17 foreign publications
preme Com
nsists of the
National Council of Churches: 1 Sophia Rd, 04-34 Peace Centre,
affected by the amendment, which came into effect in December.
inal Appeal
Segapore 0922; tel. 3372150; f. 1975; seven mem. churches, four
ting on Dr
mems; Pres. G. ABISHEGANADEN; Gen. Sec. P. S. GEORGE.
DAILIES
he Supreme
English Language
The Anglican Communion
on with
a Anglican diocese of Singapore (also including Indonesia, Laos,
Business Times: Times House, 390 Kim Seng Rd, Singapore
f Justice,
0923; tel. 7370011; telex 21239; fax 7335271; f. 1976; Editor MANO
adment,
Trailand and Cambodia) is extra-provincial and is directly subordi-
SABNANI; circ. 23,000 (Singapore only).
was cream
me to the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Primate of All England.
Mehop of Singapore: The Rt Rev. Dr MOSES LENG KONG TAY,
The New Paper: News Centre, 82 Genting Lane, Singapore 1334;
3 Court'.
Shopsbourne, 4 Bishopsgate, Singapore 1024; tel. 4741661.
tel. 7438800; telex 55148; fax 7449949; f. 1988; Editor P. N. BALJI;
judge,
circ. 64,000 (Singapore only).
fit. The
Orthodox Churches
The Straits Times: News Centre, 82 Genting Lane, Singapore
lagistrate
De Orthodox Syrian Church and the Mar Thoma Syrian Church
1334; tel. 7438800; telex 55148; fax 7449949; f. 1845; Editor LESLIE
nall Cluse
both active in Singapore.
FONG; circ. 314,500 (Singapore only).
appointed
Chinese Language
30 District
The Roman Catholic Church
Lianhe Wanbao: News Centre, 82 Genting Lane, Singapore 1334;
Corona
&
comprises a single archdiocese, directly responsible to
Holy See. At 31 December 1989 there were an estimated
tel. 7438800; telex 55653; fax 7466878; f. 1983; evening; Editor Loy
recommed
TECK JUAN; circ. 85,500.
2343
SINGAPORE
Directory
SINGAPOI
Lianhe ZaoBao: News Centre, 82 Genting Lane, Singapore 1334;
Young Parents: Times Periodicals Pte Ltd, 422 Thomson Rd,
Chopmen Pt
tel. 7438800; telex 55653; fax 7466878; f. 1983; Chief Editor Loy
Singapore 1129; tel. 2550011; fax 2568016; quarterly; family; Editor
Centre
TECK JUAN; circ. 183,000.
TAN WANG Joo; circ. 20,000.
ademic, ch
Shin Min Daily News (S) Ltd: News Centre, 82 Genting Lane,
Chinese Language
IPB Publis}
Singapore 1334; tel. 7438800; telex 55148; fax 7449949; f. 1967;
Characters-Singapore Edition: 42 MacTaggart Rd, 06-02 Mar
Segapore 03
Editor SENG HAN THONG; circ. 90,000.
Taggart Bldg, Singapore 1336; tel. 2866733; fax 2895413; f. 1987:
scional Publ
monthly; television and entertainment; Editor JESSICA LI; eire
ad magazin
Malay Language
45,000.
Federal Pub
Berita Harian: News Centre, 82 Genting Lane, Singapore 1334;
The Citizen: People's Association, Kallang, Singapore 1439; tel
33; tel. 28
tel. 7438800; telex 55148; fax 7449949; f. 1957; morning; Editor
MOHAMED GUNTOR SADALI; circ. 46,000 (Singapore only).
3448222; telex 38891; monthly; English and Chinese.
dren's an
NTUC Lifestyle: 1 New Industrial Rd, Times Centre, Singapore
TEP Intern
Malayalam Language
1953; tel. 2848844; telex 25713; fax 2881186; f. 1987; bimonthly.
pare 2261; te
Malaysia Malayali: Toa Payoh Central, Singapore 9131; tel.
English and Chinese; travel and leisure; Editor MICHAEL CHEAR
alerence, ch
7450451; f. 1938; Publr L. F. LLOYD GEORGE; Man. Editor V.P.
circ. 150,000.
Graham Br.
ABDULLAH; circ. 2,500 (Singapore and Malaysia).
Punters' Way-Singapore Edition: 42 MacTaggart Rd, 06-02 Mar
225161; tel
ebcational;
Tamil Language
Taggart Bldg, Singapore 1336; tel. 2866733; fax 2895413; f. 197c
CAMPBELL.
biweekly; English and Chinese; sport; Editor T.S. PHAN; cire
Tamil Murasu: 139-141 Lavender St, Singapore 1233; tel. 2923116;
90,000.
Harper & R
fax 2932941; f. 1936; Editor V. T. ARASU; circ. 8,500 (daily), 10,000
Union In
Racing Guide: 1 New Industrial Rd, Times Centre, Singaport
(Sunday).
wer 28212;
1953; tel. 2848844; telex 25713; fax 2881186; f. 1987; 2 a week.
sincal, refere
WEEKLIES
English and Chinese; sport; Editorial Consultant BENNY ORTEGE
Chinese Editor KUEK CHIEW TEONG; circ. 20,000.
Befer Comi
English Language
tel. 86
Radio & TV Times (Chinese): Caldecott Hill, Thomson Rd, Sings
Sunday Times: News Centre, 82 Genting Lane, Singapore 1334;
pore 1129; tel. 2560401; telex 39265; fax 2538808; f. 1981; weekly.
waps and ph
tel. 7438800; telex 55148; fax 7449949; f. 1845; Editor LESLIE
Editors WONG KHUIK PHIN, WONG OI KUAN; circ. 150,000.
Institute of
FONG; circ. 352,000 (Singapore only).
Partr Panja
Singapore Literature: Singapore Literature Society, 122B Sims
W-1735; f. 1.
Malay Language
Ave, Singapore 1438; quarterly; Pres. YAP KOON CHAN; Editor
and the Paci
LUO-MING.
Berita Minggu: News Centre, 82 Genting Lane, Singapore 1334;
Mellectual
tel. 7438800; telex 55148; fax 7449949; f. 1957; Sunday; Editor
Tune Monthly Magazine: Block 203A Henderson Industrial Park.
federal E
MOHAMED GUNTOR SADALI; circ. 58,000 (Singapore only).
Henderson Rd 06-04; Singapore 0315; tel. 2733000; fax 274959
249108; f. 1
f. 1988; monthly; women's and fashion; Editor CHAN ENG; city,
Larman S
SELECTED PERIODICALS
25,000.
LA Jurong
Video Magazine: Block 293A Henderson Industrial Park, Hender
English Language
141740; tex
son Rd 06-04; Singapore 0315; tel. 2733000; fax 2749538; L 1904
Rus KING.
Beauty Incorporating Health and Leisure: 05-01/06 Eng Cheong
monthly; Editor CHAN ENG; circ. 30,000.
McGraw-Hi
Tower, 5611 North Bridge Road, Singapore 0719; tel. 2966558;
Young Generation: EPB Publishers Pte Ltd, Block 162, Bail
2654633:
telex 26646; fax 2966275; f. 1988; bimonthly; Editor-in-Chief CHIN
Merah Central, 04-3545, Singapore 0315; tel. 2780881; telex 5623R
Dir ST
MEI NGo; circ. 20,000.
monthly; Editors WINSTON LAM, KoH SWEE YANG; circ. 80,000
Millan
Cherie Magazine: 12 Everton Rd, Singapore 0208; tel. 2229733;
NEWS AGENCIES
propore 2
fax 2843859; f. 1983; bimonthly; women's; Editor JOSEPHINE NG;
general:
circ. 20,000.
Foreign Bureaux
ayan L
Go: Times Periodicals Pte Ltd, 422 Thomson Rd, Singapore 1129;
Agence France-Presse (AFP): Maxwell Rd, POB 1847, Singapore
Sin;
tel. 2550011; fax 2568016; f. 1980; monthly; women's; Editor TAN
9036; tel. 2228581; telex 21255; Bureau Chief MICHELE COOPER
law
WANG Joo; circ. 34,000.
Her World: Times Periodicals Pte Ltd, 422 Thomson Rd, Singapore
Lane, Singapore 1027; tel. 4690265; telex 38629; fax 467125
Agenzia Nazionale Stampa Associata (ANSA) (Italy): 37 Grost
P₁
B, Ur
1129; tel. 2550011; fax 2568016; f. 1956; monthly; women's; Editor
Correspondent ALFONSO MAFFETTONE.
fax
TAN WANG Joo; circ. 34,000.
Associated Press (AP) (USA): 6 Battery Rd, 23-02 Standard 2152
Home and Decor: Times Periodicals Pte Ltd, 422 Thomson Rd,
Chartered Bank Bldg, Singapore 0104; tel. 2201849; telex
Uni
Singapore 1129; tel. 2550011; fax 2568016; 6 a year; home-owners;
Informatsionnoye Agentstvo Novosti (IAN) (USSR): 8 Name
Bureau Chief KENNETH L. WHITING.
41
Editor SOPHIE KHo; circ. 20,000.
a
Man-Life & Style: 322A Jalan Besar, SLS Bldg, Singapore 0820;
Grove, Singapore 1026; tel. 4667998; telex 21703; fax
tel. 2968178; telex 24200; fax 2968319; f. 1986; bimonthly; men's;
Correspondent MIKHAIL I. IDAMKIN.
Editor MICHAEL CHIANG; circ. 20,000.
Jiji Press Ltd (Jiji Tsushin-sha) (Japan): 10 Anson 28532 Rd.
Motoring: 190 Middle Rd, 14-07 Fortune Centre, Singapore 0718;
International Plaza, Singapore 0207; tel. 2244212; telex
Ptd
tel. 337055; telex 51088; fax 3394857; f. 1982; bimonthly; Editor
2240711; Correspondent TAKASHI YAGI.
347472
GUY CoH; circ. 20,000.
Kyodo News Service (Japan): Singapore; tel. 2233371; telex
&
S
Radio & TV Times (English): Caldecott Hill, Thomson Rd, Singa-
Chief MIKIO KOBAYASHI.
Ston
pore 1129; tel. 2560401; telex 39265; fax 2538808; f. 1980; weekly;
Pan-Asia Newspaper Alliance (PANANEWS): 1 Finlayson
Editor ONG LAY TEEN; circ. 46,000.
14-12 Asia Insurance Bldg, Singapore 0207; tel. 2244837;
Republic of Singapore Government Gazette: Singapore National
pondent CHIN KAH CHONG.
Printers Ltd, 303 Upper Serangoon Rd, POB 485, Singapore 1334;
Press Trust of India (PTI): Singapore; tel. 2225964; Complete
tel. 2820611; telex 24462; fax 2854894; weekly; Friday.
Reservist: 5200 Jalan Bukit Merah, Singapore 0315; tel. 2786011;
Reuters Singapore Pte Ltd: 50 Raffles Place, 17-01 Shell Mary Trust
dent E. M. RASHEED.
telex 28837; fax 2737441; f. 1973; bimonthly; men's; Editor PAUL
Singapore 0104; tel. 2253848; telex 21290; fax 2259317;
JANSEN; circ. 95,000.
P. MELCHIOR.
Singapore Business: Times Periodicals Pte Ltd, 390 Kim Seng
Telegrafnoye Agentstvo Sovetskovo Soyuza (TASS)
Rd, Singapore 0923; tel. 7370011; telex 21239; fax 7335271; f. 1977;
Cairnhill Rd, 04-09 Elizabeth Height, Singapore 0922;
monthly; Editor MANO SABNANI; circ. 10,000.
telex 28231; Correspondent VLADIMIR KOVALENKO.
S-M
Singapore Business Yearbook: Times Periodical Pte Ltd, 390
United Press International (UPI) (USA): Shaw
Kim Seng Rd, Singapore 0923; tel. 7370011; telex 21239; f. 1972;
10, 100 Beach Rd, Singapore 0718; tel. 2946289;
yearly; Editor MANO SABNANI; circ. 12,000.
2985946; Man. RUTH YOUNGBLOOD.
Singapore Medical Journal: Singapore Medical Association, Level
Bernama (Malaysia) and Xinhua (People's Republic of China
2, Alumni Medical Centre, 2 College Rd, Singapore 0316; tel.
also represented.
2231264; fax 2247827; 6 a year; Editor Dr CHEE YAM CHENG.
Times Guide to Computers: 1 New Industrial Rd, Times Centre,
Singapore 1953; tel. 2848844; telex 25713; fax 2881186; f. 1986;
Publishers
annually; computing and communications; Sales and Marketing
Man. LESLIE LIM; circ. 22,000.
Woman's Affair: 305 UBI Ave, 02-169 Singapore 1648; tel.
Addison-Wesley (S) Pte Ltd: 15 Beach Rd, 05-09/10 Beach educated Come
ENGLISH LANGUAGE
7472822; telex 35361; fax 7472811; f. 1988; 10 a year; Editor GLORIA
Singapore 0718; tel. 3397503; telex 20904; fax
FU; circ. 22,000.
computing and professional books; Man. Dir
2344
Directory
APORE
Publishers: 865 Mountbatten Rd, 05-28/29 Katong Shop-
Pustaka Nasional Pte Ltd: 100 Beach Rd, 13-11 Shaw Towers,
omige
1543; tel. 3441495; fax 3440180; f. 1963;
Singapore 0718; tel. 2941917; telex 26746; Malay and Islamic reli-
nily;
general; Man. Dir N. T. S. CHOPRA.
gious books; Man. Dir SYED AHMAD BIN MUHAMAD.
Pte Ltd: Block 162, 04-3545 Bukit Merah Central, Edu-
CHINESE LANGUAGE
THE the THE Pte Ltd; textbooks, general, PUI CHUAN.
telex 56289; fax 2782456; fmrly reference
16-02
Shanghai Book Co (Pte) Ltd: 81 Victoria St, Singapore 0718; tel.
Chinese; Gen. Man. Au
3360144; telex 29297; fax 2243270; f. 1925; educational and general;
Pte Ltd: 1 New Industrial Rd, Singapore
Man. Dir Mrs CHEN MONG HOCK.
Lt;
the and books; Gen. Man. Y. H. MEW.
[email protected] fax 2889254; f. 1957; educational,
Shing Lee Publishers Pte Ltd: 120 Hillview Ave, 05-06/07 Kewal-
1439
ram Hillview, Singapore 2366; tel. 7601388; telex 39255; fax
348 Jalan Boon Lay, Jurong, Singa-
7625684; f. 1935; educational and general; Man. PEH CHIN HUA.
25601; fax 2655103; f. 1960; textbooks, ToH.
Union Book Co (Pte) Ltd: 231 Bain St 03-01, Bras Basah Complex,
children's and Gen. Man. RICHARD
Singapore 0718; tel. 3380696; fax 3386306; general and reference;
I
Brash (Pte) Ltd: 36-C Prinsep St, Singapore 0718; tel.
Gen. Man. CHOW LI-LIANG.
telex 23718; fax 3384583; f. 1956; general, academic,
06-02
English, Chinese and Malay; Man. Dir Mrs K. C.
TAMIL LANGUAGE
EVS Enterprises: 629- Upper Serangoon Rd, Singapore 1953; tel.
HAN
Publishers, Asia Pte Ltd: 37 Jalan Pemimpin, 02-
2830002; f. 1967; children's books, religion and general; Man. E. V.
and Industrial Bldg, Block A, Singapore 2057; tel. 2583577;
SINGHAN.
2
ship 2212; fax 2594286; f. 1983; educational, children's, profes-
a
reference, medical and general; Sales Man. BERNARD TANG.
Government Publishing House
(Pte) Ltd: 38 Joo Koon Rd, Singapore
Singapore National Printers (Pte) Ltd: 303 Upper Serangoon
21 and 36201; HANS fax 8616438; HOEFER. f. 1971; travel guides,
Rd, Singapore 1334; tel. 22308340; fax 2887246.
Rd.
of Southeast Asian Studies: Heng Mui Keng Terrace,
PUBLISHERS' ASSOCIATION
00.
122a
Panjang Rd, Singapore 0511; tel. 7780955; telex 37068; fax
- Pacific; Dir Prof. KERNIAL S. SANDHU.
L 1968; scholarly works on contemporary South-East Asia
Singapore Book Publishers' Association: c/o Chopmen Publrs,
865 Mountbatten Rd, 05-28 Katong Shopping Centre, Singapore
1543; tel. 3441495; fax 3440180; Hon. Sec. N. T. S. CHOPRA.
113 Eunos Ave 3, 04-08 Gordon
trial
tel. 7466025; telex 55708; fax
ENC,
1 1. 1971; Propr PoH BE LECK.
Singapore Publishers (Pte) Ltd: 25 First Lok Yang
Radio and Television
Town, Singapore 2262; tel. 2682666; telex 24268; fax
Aurong textbooks, medicine, science, technology; Man. Dir WEE
In 1990 there were 649,848 radio and 560,153 television licences.
<,
8;
L
Singapore Broadcasting Corpn (SBC): Caldecott Hill, Andrew
3
KING. 21 Neythal Rd, Jurong, Singapore 2262;
Rd, Singapore 1129; tel. 2560401; telex 39265; f. 1980, taking over
162,
fax 2652972; f. 1969; general educational;
the functions of Radio-Television Singapore and the collection of
elex
radio and television licence fees; nine radio services and three TV
Dir STEVEN
80,000
channels; Chair. Dr CHEONG CHOONG KONG; Gen. Man. MOSES
Maillan Southeast Asia Pte Ltd: 41 Jalan Pemimpin, 03-04,
LEE.
Suppore 2057; tel. 2581337; telex 23196; fax 2588270; educational
general; Marketing Dir JACOB KANG.
RADIO
Singapore
Malayan Law Journal Pte Ltd: 3 Shenton Way, 14-03 Shenton
Far East Broadcasting (FEBA Ltd): POB 751, Robinson Rd,
Mare.
Singapore 0106; tel. 2203684; telex 42890; fax 2255026;
COOPER
law texts and journals; Man. Dir STEPHEN STOUT.
Singapore 9015; tel. 2225418; telex 25281; fax 2221805; f. 1960;
37 Grown
Publishing Asia Pte Ltd: 37 Jalan Pemimpin, 07-04,
Chair. GOH EWE KHENG; Exec. Dir DAVID L. CHEN.
4671972
But B. Union Industrial Bldg, Singapore 2057; tel. 2583255; telex
Rediffusion (Singapore) Pte Ltd: 1 Jalan Selanting, Singapore
fax 2588279; educational and general; Man. Dir CHARLES
2159; tel. 4671144; telex 24114; fax 4663888; f. 1949; commercial
Standard
wired broadcasting service; broadcasts two programmes in Manda-
lex 2122
delard University Press Pte Ltd: Unit 221, Ubi Ave 4, Singapore
rin (18 hours daily) and English (24 hours daily) to over 102,000
HR tel. 7431066; telex 37960; fax 7425915; f. 1955; educational,
listeners (1990); Man. Dir WONG BAN KUAN.
8 Nataly
andemic and general; Man. GOH TEOW HUAT.
SBC-Radio Singapore: Farrer Rd, POB 60, Singapore 9128; tel.
4690754
K Publishing Pte Ltd: 304 Orchard Rd, 04-20/22 Lucky Plaza,
2560401; telex 39265; f. 1936; operates nine services, in English
Serspore 0923; tel. 2357700; telex 39967; fax 2357934; medical;
(four), Chinese (Mandarin) (two), Malay (two) and Tamil, including
Rd, 25#
Larketing Man. LEW KoK LIAT.
a 24-hour popular music service in English; broadcasts 1,213 hours
28538; Iss
Qdas Ptd Ltd: 621 Aljunied Rd, 06-01 Lipo Bldg, Singapore 1438;
per week; Gen. Man. MOSES LEE; Dir Mrs CHUA Foo YONG.
7474725; f. 1975; law texts, magazines; Dir NIRMAI SINGH.
lex 36121
TELEVISION
Amon & Schuster Asia Pte Ltd: 24 Pasir Panjang Rd, 04-31 PSA
Indi Storey Complex, Singapore 0511; tel. 2789611; telex 37270;
SBC-Television Singapore: Farrer Rd, POB 60, Singapore 9128;
on Greez
fax 2734400; f. 1975; educational; Man. Dir STEPHEN M. SMITH.
tel. 2560401; telex 39265; f. 1963; three channels; colour transmis-
7; Corres
Sagapore Book Emporium: 120 Hillview Ave, 05-0607 Kewalram
sions since 1974; total weekly average of 178 hours; education
Singapore 2366; tel. 7601388; telex 39255; f. 1961;
service of 6 hours weekly; programmes in Malay, Chinese (Manda-
wribooks, children's, reference, dictionaries, cookery, general;
rin), Tamil and English; teletext service on two channels; Gen.
Km. Dir PEH CHIN HUA.
Man. MOSES LEE.
ell Tower
Regapore University Press Pte Ltd: National University of
Man. Dr
Suppore, Yusof Ishak House, Kent Ridge, Singapore 0511; tel.
741148; telex 51112; f. 1971; scholarly; Editor and Man. PATRICIA
Finance
SSRE
Tor.
7344143
Researd College Publishers: 218 Queen St, Singapore 0718; tel.
(cap. = capital; p.u. = paid up; dep. = deposits; m. = million;
telex 25596; fax 3395825; f. 1970; general, educational and
brs = branches; amounts in Singapore dollars)
Suite
jurnals; Man. L. P. NICHOL.
:6083; fss
Times Editions Pte Ltd: Times Centre, 1 New Industrial Rd,
BANKING
Magapore 1953; tel. 2848844; telex 37908; fax 2854871; f. 1978;
The Singapore monetary system is regulated by the Monetary
'hina)
natical, social and cultural books, general works on Asia; Asst
Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Ministry of Finance. The
Man. SHIRLEY HEW.
MAS performs all the functions of a central bank, except the
World Scientific Publishing Co Pte Ltd: Farrer Road, POB 128,
issuing of currency, a function which is carried out by the Board
Segapore 9128; tel. 3825663; telex 28561; fax 3825919; f. 1980;
of Commissioners of Currency. The Government of Singapore
statemic texts and science journals; Man. Dir DOREEN LIU.
Investment Corporation was founded in 1981 under the chairman-
ship of the Prime Minister. In February 1991 there were 137
MALAY LANGUAGE
commercial banks (13 local, 124 foreign) and 49 representative
h Centre.
Kakaysia Press Sdn Bhd (Pustaka Melayu): 745-747 North Bridge
offices in Singapore. Of the banks, 35 were fully licensed, 14 had
ucations
at Singapore 0719; tel. 2933454; f. 1962; textbooks and edu-
restricted licences and 88 foreign banks had 'offshore' banking
DING.
Man. Dir ABU TALIB BIN ALLY.
licences.
2345
Director
=INGAPORE
Directory
Insurance Ltd: 63 Market St, 11-07/10 Tat Lee Bank
CO-OPERATIVES
Lumpur
Lee Singapore 0104; tel. 5333355; telex 55300; fax 5339390; Chair.
ENG CHEW; Prin. Officer FONG SIEW HONG.
As at 31 December 1981, Singapore had 78 co-operative societies
)rated State
OF
Marine & Fire Insurance Co (Singapore) Pte Ltd: 6
classified into 12 types, comprising 40 thrift and credit societies,
ir memb
the SES,
DBS Bldg, Singapore 0106; tel. 2216111; telex
eight consumer societies, 17 multi-purpose societies, three
Man. Dir RYOZO YAWATA.
housing/land-purchase societies, one transport society, two pro-
ducer societies, one insurance society, one medical society, two
Ltd: 156 Cecil St, 09-01 Far Eastern
service societies, two school co-operative societies and one co-
1 (SIMEX)
tel. 2227733; telex 25094; fax 2242718;
operative union. These societies, with paid-up share capital of
STATE
S $53m. and statutory reserve funds of S $10.7m., had a combined
:0; es and Pres.
membership of 273 institutional mems and 180,229 personal mems.
Composite Insurance
ce, 24-00
The
Great Eastern Life Assurance Co Ltd: 65 Chulia St, 18-01
EMPLOYERS' ORGANIZATION
ECBC f. 1908; Gen. Man. ALLEN J. PATHMARAJAH.
Centre, Singapore 0104; tel. 5324331; telex 34421; fax
f. 1930,
Singapore National Employers' Federation: 19 Tanglin Rd, 10-
01/04 Tanglin Shopping Centre, Singapore 1024; tel. 2358911; fax
Insurance Corpn of Singapore Ltd: 137 Cecil St, 08-00 ICS Bldg,
2353904; f. 1948; Pres. STEPHEN LEE; Exec. Dir TAN PENG Boo.
Sharpore LOCK SAI HUNG.
0106; tel. 3458555; telex 37770; fax 2247242; f. 1969;
TRADE UNIONS
Authority
were
Ourseas 0106; tel. 2251122; telex 21443; fax 2240672; f. 1920; Gen.
Assurance Corpn Ltd: 138 Cecil St, 05-00 Cecil Court,
In December 1989 there were 87 trade unions, of which 74 were
ral insur
Signapore 10 and Sec. KoH BEE CHYE.
affiliated to the Singapore National Trades Union Congress. Non-
ral reinsure
affiliated unions were mostly small, occupational or in-house unions.
Associations
In December 1989 the largest private-sector union, the United
Workers of Electronics and Electrical Industries, had 30,233 mem-
General Insurance Association of Singapore: 150 Cecil St, 07-
bers, while the largest public-sector union, the Amalgamated Union
by comme
8001 Wing on Life Bldg, Singapore 0106; tel. 2218788; Pres.
of Public Employees, had 22,796 members.
others,
WANG Soo JIN.
Singapore National Trades Union Congress (SNTUC): Trade
for trade
Segapore Life 0718; tel. 3383340; fax 3360654; Pres. TAN KIN LIAN;
Insurance Association: 1 Selegie Rd, 06-17A Paradiz Centre,
Union House, Shenton Way, Singapore 0106; tel. 2226555; telex
24543; f. 1961; 74 affiliated unions, 209,193 mems (Dec. 1989); Pres.
Pres. ALLEN J. PATHMARAJAH.
OSCAR OLIVIERO; Sec.-Gen. ONG TENG CHEONG.
ing, included
5); CEO5
Trade and Industry
Transport
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE
RAILWAYS
degapore Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry:
In 1989 there was 26 km of 1-m gauge railway, linked with the
en, 05-05
ex 23971;
0 Hill St, 03-01 Chinese Chamber of Commerce Bldg, Singapore
Malaysian railway system and owned by the Malayan Railway
G.
0517; tel. 3389761; telex 26228; fax 3395630; f. 1978 by the Singa-
(KTM). The main line crosses the Johore causeway (1.2 km) and
inson Rd,
sire Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Singapore
terminates near Keppel Harbour. Branch lines link it with the
Malay Chamber of Commerce, the Singapore Indian Chamber of
industrial estate at Jurong.
tel. 22571
Commerce, the Singapore Int. Chamber of Commerce and the
Construction began in 1984 on the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)
W.
Singapore Mfrs' Assen; Pres. G. RAMACHANDHRAN; Hon. Gen. Sec.
system. The first section was completed in 1987, and the remaining
IBM Tow
GEORGE ABRAHAM.
section by 1990. The network consists of three lines with 42
<6; Pres. Dos
stations. The system extended for 67 km, most of which was either
DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATIONS
elevated or under ground.
Collyer
Economic Development Board: 250 North Bridge Rd, 24-00
Mass Rapid Transit Corpn: 25K Paterson Rd, Singapore 0923;
ex 26256;
Paffles City Tower, Singapore 0617; tel. 3362288; telex 26233; fax
tel. (72) 7324433; telex 39954; fax 7327758; Chair. M. FAM.
3396077; f. 1961; statutory body planning and implementing the
govt's industrialization programme; Chair. PHILIP YEO; Alt. Chair.
ROADS
CHAN CHIN BOCK; Gen. Man. TAN CHIN NAM.
09-01, Robb
In 1986 Singapore had a total of 2,686 km of roads, of which 77 km
tel. 22231
Housing and Development Board: 3541 Bukit Merah Rd, HDB
were motorway and 458 km. were main roads.
Centre, Singapore 0315; tel. 2739090; telex 22020; fax 2796097;
L 1960; public housing authority; Chair. HSUAN OWYANG.
SHIPPING
sia Insurance
39120; f. 19th
Aurong Town Corpn: 5 Pulau Samulun, Jurong Town, Singapore
Singapore is the world's busiest port in terms of the total displace-
; AH Soo.
2260; tel. 5600056; telex 35733; fax 5655301; f. 1968; statutory
ment of vessels handled, and is used by about 500 shipping lines.
04-00 Cossie
body responsible for developing and maintaining industrial estates;
The Port of Singapore Authority operates five gateways: Tanjong
Ceair. YEO SENG TECK; Gen. Man. FRANCIS MAK.
X 20307; be
Pagar Terminal, Keppel Wharves, Pasir Panjang Wharves, Semba-
Trade Development Board: 1 Maritime Sq., Telok Blangah Rd,
wang Wharves and Jurong Port. Tanjong Pagar Terminal (3.3 km)
Cecil St, u
10-40 World Trade Centre, Singapore 0409; tel. 2719388; telex
is the main gateway for containerized cargo and has the capacity
29617; fax 2740770; statutory body; Chair. ALAN YEO; CEO YEO
to accommodate 58,500 20-foot equivalent units (TEU). Keppel
fax 225024
) CHEW Le
SENG TECK; Dir-Gen. RIDZWAN DZAFIR.
Wharves (4.8 km), the principal conventional gateway, can berth
up to 24 vessels and handles mainly loose cargo. Pasir Panjang
0 CPF Blac,
INDUSTRIAL AND TRADE ASSOCIATIONS
Wharves (2.7 km) is a conventional gateway and a major centre
for warehousing. It can accommodate three deep-water vessels, 10
38; f. 1954
Association of Singapore Marine Industries (ASMI): 1 Maritime
coastal vessels and 46 lighters. Sembawang Wharves (0.8 km) is a
an. ALBERT
Sq., 09-50 World Trade Centre, Singapore 0409; tel. 2707883; telex
conventional gateway with five berths and handles mainly low-
17706; fax 2731867; f. 1968; 33 full mems, 9 hon. mems, 84 assoc.
value, high-volume cargo. Jurong Port (2.4 km) is mainly a dry
d: 143 Cedi
mems; Pres. CHOO CHIAU BENG; Exec. Sec. ONG CHEW LIANG.
bulk cargo port and can accommodate nine deep-water and three
X 33652; fax
Malayan Pineapple Industry Board: 10 Collyer Quay, 19-06 Ocean
coastal vessels. In 1988 a sixth container terminal was being
Bldg, Singapore 0104; tel. 5338827; f. 1957; controls pineapple
constructed: it was estimated to cost about S $1,500m. over five
-02 Overseas
advation, canning and marketing; Chair. AHMAD BIN OMAR.
years. In 1988 the Port of Singapore handled 142m. metric tons of
23737;
Rubber Association of Singapore: Godown P7, West Coast High-
cargo. As at 31 December 1986, Singapore's merchant shipping
say, Pasir Panyang Wharves, Singapore 0511; tel. 5353333; telex
fleet comprised 1,265 vessels, totalling 7.26m. grt.
Ocean Blde
20554; fax 4755690; f. 1968 to regulate, promote, develop and
Port of Singapore Authority: 460 Alexandra Rd, PSA Bldg,
871; f. 192
repervise the rubber market in Singapore, including the establish-
Singapore 0511; tel. 2747111; telex 21507; fax 2744677; f. 1964;
sent and dissemination of official prices for all grades and types
statutory board under the Ministry of Communications; responsible
'te) Ltd:
of rubber; provides clearing facilities; endorses certificates of origin
for the provision and maintenance of port facilities and services;
241111; tela
Exec. Sec. GNOH CHONG HocK.
and licences for packers, shippers and mfrs; Chair. LING LEE HUA;
Chair. LIM KIM SAN; Exec. Dir NG KIAT CHONG.
00.
St,
13-01
Singapore Manufacturers' Association: 20 Orchard Rd, The SMA
Major Shipping Lines
X 24276;
House, Singapore 0923; tel. 3388787; telex 24992; fax 3383358;
American President Lines Ltd: 19 Keppel Rd, 02-01 Jit Poh Bldg,
HUAT. 1 1932; Pres. ROBERT CHUA TECK CHEW; Exec. Dir CHIN TECK
Singapore 0208; tel. 2259966; telex 21337; fax 2214922; container
services to North and South Asia, the USA, the Middle East,
India and Pakistan; Man. Dir JORDAN TRUCHAN.
2349
SINGAPORE
Directory
Barwil Agencies Pte Ltd: 200 Cantonment Rd, 07-02 Southport,
Syabas Tankers Pte Ltd: 10 Anson Rd, 34-10 International Plaza
Singapore 0208; tel. 2252577; telex 23057; fax 2252538; services to
Singapore 0207; tel. 2259522; telex 26049; 3 vessels.
the USA, Canada and the Persian Gulf; Man. Dir HANS DYRLIE.
Everett Steamship Corpn SA: 24 Raffles Place, 17-03 Clifford
CIVIL AVIATION
Centre, Singapore 0104; tel. 5325481; telex 21306; fax 5325486;
Singapore's international airport at Changi was opened in 1981
cargo services; shipping agents; Gen. Man. P. M. PANDOLFO.
In late 1990 a second passenger terminal came into operation.
Guan Guan Shipping Pte Ltd: 23 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 0104;
which more than doubled the airport's capacity, to 24m. passengers
tel. 2219790; telex 21395; fax 5343504; f. 1955; shipowners and
per year.
agents; cargo services to East and West Malaysia, Indonesia,
Singapore Airlines Ltd (SIA): Airline House, 25 Airline Rd
Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bengal Bay ports, Persian Gulf ports, Hong
Singapore 1781; tel. 5423333; telex 21241; fax 5424155; f. 1972
Location
Kong and China; 5 vessels; Man. Dir T. E. Go.
passenger services to 59 cities in 34 countries, including Australia
Solomon
Hin Leong Marine International (Pte) Ltd: 1 Playfair Rd, Singa-
Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, the People's
south-we:
pore 1336; tel. 2835694; telex 38835; 45 vessels; Marine Supt V.
Republic of China, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Hong
country
LIM.
Kong, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malay.
arth-we
Nedlloyd EAC Agencies Pte Ltd: 138 Robinson Rd, 01-00 Hong
sia, Maldives, Mauritius, Nepal, the Netherlands, New Zealand
Islands (I
Leong Centre, Singapore 0106; tel. 2218989; telex 21261; fax
Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Sri
Islands,
2249106; f. 1963; agency for Nedlloyd Lines and Scandutch I/S
Lanka, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, the United King
equatoria
partnership; Gen. Man. VAN RAPPARD.
dom, and the USA; Chair. J. Y. PILLAY; Man. Dir CHEONG CHOONE
trade wi
KONG; fleet of 8 B747-400, 11 B747-300, 3 B747-300 Combi, 5 B747
Neptune Orient Lines Ltd: 456 Alexandra Rd, PDS 06-00 NOL
IFC (81
Bldg, Singapore 0511; tel. 2789000; telex 51168; fax 2784900; f. 1968;
200, 8 A310-300, 6 A310-200, 1 747-200F.
iss in).
liner containerized services on the Far East/Europe, Far
pidgin E1
East/North America, Straits/Australia, South Asia/Europe and
SD differe
South-East Asia, Far East/Mediterranean routes; tankers, bulk
Tourism
the wh
carriers and dry cargo vessels on charter; 44 vessels; Chair. H. R.
Christiar
HOCHSTADT; Man. Dir LUA CHENG ENG.
Singapore's tourist attractions include a blend of cultures and
beliefs. ]
New Straits Shipping Co Pte Ltd: 51 Anson Rd, 09-53 Anson
excellent shopping facilities. The Centre for Tourism-Related
biangles
Centre, Singapore 0207; tel. 2201007; telex 23150; fax 2240785; 3
Studies was established in 1987 to train about 1,000 members of
*** in i
vessels.
the tourism industry per year in tour operations, ticketing, skills
by and i'
Pacific International Lines Pte Ltd: 140 Cecil St, 03-00 PIL Bldg,
and marketing. Tourist arrivals reached 4,829,950 in 1989, increas
reflow di
Singapore 0106; tel. 2218133; telex 24190; fax 2258741; shipowners,
ing by 10%, to an estimated 5,313,223, in 1990.
are white
agents and managers; liner services to the Far East, India, the
Singapore Convention Bureau: Raffles City Tower 37-00. a
the u}
Red Sea, the Persian Gulf, West and East Africa; container
North Bridge Road, Singapore 0617; tel. 3396622; telex 33375 1
Ceadalca
services to South-East Asia; world-wide chartering, freight for-
1974; a division of the Singapore Tourist Promotion Board: Dis.
warding; 51 vessels; Chair. and Man. Dir Y. C. CHANG.
Dir KEVIN LEONG.
Recent I
Pacific Navigation Co Pte Ltd: 3 Shenton Way, 21-08 Shenton
Singapore Tourist Promotion Board: Raffles City Tower 36-04
The nort
House, Singapore 0106; tel. 2225688; telex 26003; fax 2259897; six
250 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 0617; tel. 3396622; telex 33348
1885
vessels; Man. Dir B. FORSELL.
fax 3399423; f. 1964; Chair. LEONG CHEE WHYE.
1683. Re
the B
Most of t
United I
as
under th
(LPHC)
The S
Cer a f.
Pecaptur
prot
Mecara
Refred
exablish
title to
Under
Arislat
the the
of
Co
this
17
of
a
a
2350
SINGAPORE International Year Book
Teacher training at non-university level is provided at six
teachers for rural areas.
FINANCE
teacher colleges which lude five primary teacher-colleges and
Fourah Bay College and Njala University College are the
one secondary teacher-college-Milton Margai Teachers College. The
constituent Colleges of the University of Sierra Leone. Enrolment
Government Revenue:
primary teacher-training colleges offer a 3-year teacher
at Fourah Bay College and Njala University College in 1975-76 was
certificate course for students with four years secondary
1,016 and 596 respectively. The Institute of Education exists as
education and those who pass the entrance examination. The Milton
part of the University of Sierra Leone.
Margai Teachers Certificate (H.T.C.) Course is for students with
Early in 1970, a commission set up with the approval of
Economic Classification
4 G.C.E. '0' Level subjects.
Government completed its report on Higher Education in Sierra
Holders of the Higher Teachers Certificate are qualified to
Leone and submitted it to the government. The report formed the
Total
teach in the lower classes of secondary schools. The Department
basis of a National Education policy for Sierra Leone.
Transfer Receipts
of Education at Fourah Day College and Njala University College
The University of Sierra Leone in collaboration with the
Taxes on income
provide teacher educat at graduate level.
Ministry of Education carried out the Sierra Leone Education
Taxes on production &
A year's Post Graduate Teacher Programme leading to Diploma in
Review which is in substance completed. The Ministry of Education
expenditure
Education is pursued at Fourah Bay College. The Degree Programme
coordinates Adult Education Programmes through the National
Other transfer receipts
at Njala University College leads to Bachelor of Arts and
Literacy Committee on which all the principal participating
Disposal of Goods &
Bachelor of Science in Education.
organisations in Adult Education are represented.
Services
In 1975-76 Bunumbu Teachers College was granted permission to
Sales of goods & services
conduct the HTC (Primary Programme). This course has strong rural
RELIGION
from current operations
community bias. Moreover, in teacher education, the Bunumbu
Reimbursements for
Project has a purpose of educating and training primary school
Sierra Leone is Muslim and Christian.
services & sales of lands
Income from Property &
Financial Claims
Interest & dividends
received
Financial claims
Overpayments, refunds &
others
Note: Government revenue r
SINGAPORE
Exclude land sales to HD
Source: Ministry of Financ
(MEMBER OF THE COMMONWEALTH)
Government Current Expendi.
President Mr. Wee Kim Wee.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs: BG George YeoMinistry of Education:
Dr Tay Eng Soon.
National Flag Red over white, halved horizontally in ratio 2:
Ministry of Defence: Dr Lee Boon Yang.
3, at the top of the hoist a crescent moon sided by five stars in
Functional Classification
a circle, all in white.
Ministers of State:
Ministry of Community Development: Ching Jit Koon.
Total
CONSTITUTION AND GOVERNMENT
Ministry of Cummunications and Ministry of Trde & Industry: Man
General Services
Bow Tan.
Defence, Justice & Police
Singapore was founded by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819. In 1826,
Singapore together with Malacca and Penang formed the Straits
Ministry of National Development and Ministry of Home Affairs:
Services Social & Community
Settlements, with the Governor of Penang in overall
Peter Sung.
Ministry of Community Development and Ministry of Education: Dr
Education
responsibility of the administration. In 1832, Singapore became
Health
the administrative centre of the Straits Settlements which
Seet A1 Mee.
Ministry of Health: Dr Aline K Wong.
Community, environment,
remained under the control of the British East Indian Company
social welfare & other
until 1867, when Singapore became a British colony. After the
Japanese occupation from 1942-45, Singapore moved gradually to
AREA AND POPULATION
social services
Economic Services
self-government, which it achieved in 1959. In 1963, it became a
The main island of Singapore and the numerous outlying small
Agricultural, non-mineral
state within the Federation of Malaysia. On 9 August 1965,
islands together cover an area of 620.2 square kilometres. The
resources, industrial &
Singapore ceased to be a part of Malaysia and became an
highest hill (Bukit Timah) is 165 metres above sea level and the
commercial development
independent nation; and a member of the Commonwealth on 15
longest river (Sunge1 Seletar) is about 15.0 kilometres long. The
Transport & communication
October, 1965.
population as at 30 June 1984 was 2,529,100 persons with ,
Other economic services
Head of State is the President, elected by parliament for a term
density of 4,078 persons per square kilometer. The population
Public Debt
of five years. The Cabinet is responsible to a parliament of 79
growth rate has decreased from an average of 2.8% per annaa
5callocable
members.
during 1957-1970 to 1.5% during 1970-1980 and further to 1.2 per
cent per annum during 1980-84. The population growth rate is
Transfer Fund to Development
Mr Lee Kuan Yew has submitted, on 26 November 1990, his letter
among the lowest in the region.
of resignation as Prime Minister to the President. He was
The population in 1984 comprised 1,935,800 Chinese, 374,400
Note: Government current e>
succeeded by Mr Goh Chok Tong.
Malays, 162,600 Indians and 57,800 persons of other ethaic
Source: Department of Stat
groups. The Chinese constituted 76.5 per cent, the Malays 14.3
Government (November 1990):
per cent, the Indians 6.4 per cent and persons of other ethaic
groups the remaining 2.3 per cent of the total population.
Prime Minister and Minister of Defence: Goh Chok Tong,
There were 1,288,700 males and 1,240,400 females in 1983, giving
BANKS
Senior Minister Minister's Office): Lee Kuan Yew.
a sex ratio of 1,039 males per thousand females. Of the mets
Deputy Prime Minister: Ong Teng Cheong.
ethnic groups, the Chinese and the Malays had fairly even 183
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade & Industry: BG Lee
distribution of 1,015 and 1,067 males per thousand resales
SINGAP(
Hsien Loong.
respectively. The Indians, however, still have an uneven see
CC
Minister for National Development: S Dhanabalan.
distribution of 1,274 males per thousand females.
About 24.7 per cent of the population were below 15 years of are
BANK LIMIT
Minister for Education: Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam.
and 7.7 per cent were aged 60 years and over. The dependeess
BANK LIMITE
Minister for the Environment (also Minister- in-Charge of Muslim
Affairs): Dr Ahmad Mattar.
ratio, defined as the ratio of youths below 15 years and elderly 15-50
AS
Minister for Communications and Second Minister for Defence: Dr
persons aged 60 years and over to the adult population aged
BANK LIMITED
Yeo Ning Hong.
years, was 48 per hundred adult population in 1984.
Minister for Law and Minister for Home Affairs: Prof S Jayakumar.
Singapore is one of the healthiest countries in the world. TM
is various tables below S
Minister for Finance: Dr Richard Hu Tsu Tau.
crude death rate which was 20.8 per thousand
Minister for Labour: Lee Yock Suan.
External Trade:
declined to 13.3 per thousand in 1947 and to
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Community
births, a marked decline as compared with 87.3 per thousand (sf
1984. Infant mortality rate in 1984 was 8.8 per M
Development: Wong Kan Seng.
of
Minister for Health: Yeo Cheow Tong.
1947. The expectation of life at birth in 1980 was 68.7 years
or Destination
males and 74.0 years for females.
The other appointments are as follows:
to maleysis Total Asia
Senior Ministers of State:
Instand
Prilippines
the East Asia
506
SINGAPORE
iversity College are
FINANCE
of Sierra
Revenue:
ity
ite
Million Dollars
up with the approval
Economic Classification
1980
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
igher Education
nt. The report
Total
5,491.4
7,146.2
9,008.5
10,510.6
10,267.6
9,397.0
8,333.1
n Sierra Leone.
#
graster Receipts
4,125.1
5,263.7
6,237.9
7,148.7
7,671.0
6,932.3
5,276.7
1 collaboration with
Taxes on income
1,898.4
2,634.3
3,248.0
3,523.3
3,568.3
3,006.7
2,231.8
e Sierra Leone Educative the
Trues on production &
The Ministry of Education
dependiturer receipts
2,035.7
2,368.7
2,698.9
3,076.8
3,525.2
3,430.7
2,776.1
! es through the National
191.0
260.7
291.0
548.6
577.5
494.9
268.8
presented. principal participatise
gisposal of Goods &
833.0
1,403.2
2,037.3
1,953.4
1,306.7
922.0
1,178.6
dirces sales of goods & services
568.0
845.2
924.9
927.9
874.0
688.5
702.1
lands*
265.0
558.0
1,112.4
1,025.5
432.7
233.5
476.5
Income from &
Financial Claims
533.3
479.3
733.3
1,408.5
1,289.9
1,542.7
1,877.8
Interest & dividends
Financial received claims
434.7
469.0
724.9
1,398.4
1,242.3
1,529.5
1,851.5
Everpayments, refunds &
others
98.6
10.3
8.4
10.1
47.6
13.2
26.3
fete: Government revenue refers to receipts credited to Consolidated Revenue Account.
Exclude land sales to HDB amounting to $6,503.1 million in 1986.
Source: Ministry of Finance.
Government Current Expenditure:
YeoMinistry of Education:
Million Dollars
Fenctional Classification
1980
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
Jit Koon.
Total
5,170.7
5,798.2
8,428.9
10,150.5
10,625.1
10,575.8
12,241.5
y of Trde & Industry:
General Services
211.5
181.9
278.6
468.8
522.3
606.5
411.1
Defence, Justice & Police
1,321.7
1,350.2
1,618.0
1,724.0
1,972.2
2,574.7
2,364.9
Ministry of Home Affairs:
Social & Community
Services
1,029.8
1,147.7
1,442.3
1,804.9
2,111.5
2,160.8
2,059.1
Ministry of Education:
Education
564.4
631.6
866.7
1,115.1
1,282.1
1,362.0
1,349.0
Health
223.0
257.3
313.3
342.0
376.2
419.0
400.6
Community, environment,
social welfare & other
social services
242.4
258.8
262.3
347.8
453.2
379.8
309.5
Economic Services
228.1
288.0
383.9
346.5
300.1
249.5
230.4
3 numerous outlying small
Agricultural, non-mineral
STATES OF THE WORLD
2 square kilometres. The
resources, industrial &
S above sea level and
the
commercial development
65.8
77.0
133.6
85.5
71.6
83.3
61.0
5.0 kilometres long. The
Transport & communication
121.8
159.7
168.7
163.9
141.1
88.0
75.6
',529,100 persons with
a
Other economic services
40.5
51.3
81.6
97.1
87.4
78.2
93.8
ilometer. The population
Public Debt
1,794.3
2,677.3
2,922.9
3,722.0
3,634.2
2,449.4
4,753.6
verage of 2.8% per annes
Onallocable
74.1
59.1
79.4
89.2
100.4
141.8
160.6
and further to 1.2 per
Transfer to Development
ulation growth rate is
Fund
511.3
94.0
1,703.8
1,995.1
1,984.4
2,393.1
2,261.8
935,800 Chinese, 374,400
Note: Government current expenditure refers to payments from Consolidated Revenue Account.
ersons of other ethnic
Source: Department of Statistics.
er cent, the Malays 14.8
persons of other ethnic
Assets
TAT LEE BANK LIMITED Singapore
1,254
total population.
U.S.S
BANK OF MONTREAL ASIA LIMITED Singapore
754
) females in 1983, giving
BANKS
000,000
UNION BANK OF FINLAND (SINGAPORE) LIMITED
Singapore
852
3 females. Of the mais
SINGAPORE NOMURA MERCHANT BANKING LIMITED
Singapore
668
alays had fairly even sex
DEVELOPMENT BANK OF SINGAPORE LIMITED (DBS
NORDBAKEN SOUTH EAST ASIA LTD Singapore
433
S per thousand females
BANK) Singapore
15,141
INDUSTRIAL & COMMERCIAL BANK LIMITED Singapore
714
11 have an uneven sex
OVERSEA-CHINESE BANKING CORPORATION LIMITED
Singapore
9,888*
ASIA COMMERCIAL BANK LIMITED Singapore
454
emales.
UNITED OVERSEAS BANK LIMITED Singapore
5,401
LEE WAH BANK LIMITED Singapore
594
e below 15 years of age
OVERSEAS UNION BANK LIMITED Singapore
5,328*
d over. The dependency
DRESONER (SOUTH EAST ASIA) LIMITED Singapore
2,236
* FIGURES ARE CONSOLIDATED
OW 15 years and elderly
COMMERZBANK (SOUTH EAST ASIA) LIMITED Singapore
1,645
At population aged 15-59
CHUNG KHIAW BANK LIMITED Singapore
1,548
PRODUCTION, INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE
in 1984.
ries in the world. The
The various tables below show some aspects of Singapore's Commercial Life
sand population in 1941
d to 5.2 per thousand is
External Trade:
Million Dollars
8.8 per thousand live-
h 87.3 per thousand fa
Region/Country of
Imports
Origin or Destination
Exports
1980 was 68.7 years for
1984
1985
1986
1984
1985
1986
Total
61,133.6
57,817.5
55,545.4
South East Asia
51,340.0
50,178.8
48,985.5
11,593.4
10,764.4
9,709.1
12,181.2
Malaysia
11,458.0
10,255.3
9,179.7
8,301.0
Thailand
7,402.6
8,324.2
7,786.8
7,244.6
1,350.9
Brunei
1,196.3
1,606.8
2,458.1
2,092.5
1,787.7
415.4
536.6
Philippines
298.1
627.1
638.1
683.6
395.0
437.4
401.6
441.0
478.6
539.3
North East Asia
18,175.9
18,794.7
19,029.9
10,199.4
10,192.8
10,499.8
507
SINGAPORE
continued
Region/Country of
Imports
Exports
Origin or Destination
1984
1985
1986
1984
1985
1986
Japan
11,217.9
9,869.7
11,052.2
4,806.4
4,722.2
4,204.4
Hong Kong
1,281.3
1,082.5
1,310.1
3,176.2
3,197.4
3,182.9
China, People's Rep.
2,881.1
4,971.7
3,109.6
519.3
730.2
1,243.8
Taiwan
1,997.8
1,992.1
2,224.1
829.6
855.2
1,097.2
612.3
704.4
497.7
2,993.5
2,911.4
2,382.4
South Asia
India
470.4
488.8
348.5
1,413.3
1,069.0
1,027.8
43.1
52.1
29.3
573.9
664.6
506.3
Bangladesh
Pakistan
60.9
60.3
78.1
455.3
533.0
230.1
Sri Lanka
28.9
94.8
35.8
376.2
424.8
378.6
Others
9.0
8.4
6.0
174.8
220.0
239.6
West Asia
11,179.3
7,925.2
7,027.3
3,422.5
7,746.9
2,184.5
Saudi Arabia
5,687.5
2,034.2
1,369.0
1,363.5
588.5
483.5
Iran
733.0
2,474.5
2,062.6
724.8
873.7
763.8
Kuwait
1,882.7
983.7
2,098.1
309.8
268.4
84.9
EC 12
6,336.1
6,545.9
6,468.2
5,173.9
5,312.3
5,455.3
Germany, Fed.Rep.
1,667.2
1,574.4
1,829.0
1,227.0
1,126.0
1,538.8
United Kingdom
1,596.0
1,691.8
1,886.4
1,372.9
1,375.6
1,283.9
France
1,022.7
1,327.7
971.6
637.6
764.0
713.6
Netherlands
492.7
550.9
499.8
628.6
638.5
747.8
Italy
905.5
832.9
740.3
531.5
545.8
498.9
EFTA
1,139.7
1,178.2
1,443.0
424.6
459.6
453.4
Other Western Europe
191.1
206.0
25.7
272.4
301.2
95.3
Socialist Countries of
Eastern Europe
297.3
158.8
189.6
875.1
655.7
477.7
USSR
86.4
28.9
78.4
760.2
531.7
283.7
North America
9,241.1
8,970.8
8,542.3
10,677.2
10,976.9
11,813.2
USA
8,922.9
8,775.4
8,314.4
10,291.7
10,619.9
11,436.3
Oceania
1,784.8
1,838.2
1,226.6
2,916.4
3,046.0
2,230.7
Australia
1,501.6
1,532.4
986.4
1,751.4
1,636.2
1,515.2
Africa
414.3
544.7
610.2
1,500.3
1,266.0
1,516.9
Central & South America
364.8
318.7
383.1
897.6
1,029.0
959.6
Note: 1984 & 1985 - USA incl Puerto Rico
1986 - Australia incl Christmas Island
Source: Department of Stastistics up to 1985
Trade Development Board for 1986
Principal Statistics of Manufacturing, 1976-1986
Emp loyees'
Capital
Establish-
Census
Sales
ments
Workers
Materials
Output
Value
Direct
Remuner-
Expend
Year
Added
Total
ation
ture
Exports
Number
Million Dollars
618.7
1976
2,505
207,234
10,629.4
15,317.4
3,961.8
15,556.5
9,575.9
1,309.8
751.6
1977
2,638
219,112
12,224.6
17,518.2
4,475.5
17,390.5
10,969.4
1,471.7
821.5
1978
2,946
243,724
13,562.0
19,666.7
5,162.9
19,555.5
12,632.7
1,724.2
1,424.5
1979
3,122
269,334
17,513.4
25,133:7
6,412.9
25,172.9
16,203.0
2,085.9
1980'
3,355
285,250
21,415.2
31,657.9
8,521.9
30,946.7
19,172.9
2,526.9
1,861.9
1981
3,439
281,675
24,891.5
36,787.1
9,720.5
2,938.1
1,965.3
36,543.5
22,375.3
1982
3,586
275,450
24,854.4
36,467.4
9,355.9
36,437.0
21,858.7
3,270.6
2,222.8
22,640.8
3,571.9
2,113.8
1983
3,616
271,106
25,116.3
37,221.5
9,822.1
37,411.1
1984
3,648
274,391
27,474.4
41,077.9
11,106.3
40,910.7
25,057.8
4,045.0
2,168.1
1985
3,504
253,510
25,541.9
38,505.5
10,687.3
38,384.6
24,276.3
4,035.3
1,977.2
a
1986*
3,495
240,914
22,894.3
36,325.5
11,195.3
36,506.6
23,471.8
3,550.7
* Preliminary.
1
Prior to 1980, data on output and sales of petroleum refining industry included the value of products processed for third party
overseas.
Note: Rubber processing and granite quarrying are excluded.
Refers to establishments engaging 10 or more persons.
Source: Department of Statistics.
508
0
0
2.
.0
is
is
.2
8"
3.5
1.0
9'
.0
7.3
3.4
1.7
3.5
5.9
0'C
4.8
3.0
4.6
9.0
1.4
5.2
.0.2
7.4
2.2
1985
essed for third party
3,550.7
4,035.3
4,045.0
3,571.9
3,270.6
2,938.1
2,526.9
2,085.9
1,724.2
1,471.7
1,309.8
ion
Remuner-
Emp loyees'
E
1,977.2
2,168.1
2,113.4
2,222.7
1,956.8
1,861.9
1,424.5
821.8
751.6
618.7
ture
Expends-
Capital
959.8
1,515.2
2,230.7
11,813.2
477.7
453.4
8'LVL
723.6
1,283.9
1,538.8
5,455.3
8'E9L
483.5
2,184.5
230.1
1,027.8
8°160'1
1,243.8
3,182.9
4,204.4
Imports by Commodity:
Million Dollars
Commodity
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
Total
22,404.5
25,521.9
29,601.3
38,344.4
51,344.8
58,248.0
60,244.6
59,504.2
61,133.6
57,817.5
55,545.4
Food
1,853.3
2,211.0
2,183.0
2,552.6
2,915.5
3,270.5
3,601.9
3,503.9
4,157.6
3,535.4
3,865.7
Cereals & Cereal Preparations
374.5
436.8
438.3
573.2
694.3
754.0
823.4
636.7
980.5
428.1
384.5
Fruits & Vegetables
445.7
487.8
547.2
599.3
674.1
792.2
805.0
857.8
913.9
899.1
827.8
Coffee & Spices
312.1
439.6
384.5
439.8
388.7
464.8
592.4
660.2
808.7
882.6
1,047.7
Beverages & Tobacco
139.4
150.0
176.0
207.3
276.0
282.2
339.5
416.2
460.6
501.0
541.5
Crude Materials
2,023.5
2,278.7
2,470.0
3,108.2
3,416.9
2,775.5
2.306.1
2,624.8
2,510.2
1,988.0
1,905.0
Rubber
1,302.1
1,485.4
1,577.6
2,017.7
2,163.5
1,659.7
1,269.9
1,622.2
1,454.0
1,003.1
903.3
Wood
270.1
291.5
328.3
461.4
423.6
388.0
360.4
353.1
296.1
249.4
272.1
Mineral Fuels
6,140.9
6,524.2
7,081.5
9,672.7
14,889.2
19,831.1
20,479.6
18,611.7
16,961.3
17,031.0
10,994.5
Petroleum & Petroleum Products
6,136.6
6,519.5
7,074.5
9,668.0
14,879.5
19,819.2
20,471.4
18,601.4
16,949.4
17,019.9
10,986.1
Animal & Vegetable Oils
257.8
478.9
491.1
829.4
1,001.0
721.8
671.5
632.1
1,435.9
1,380.5
720.3
Unprocessed Vegetable Oils
186.6
272.7
190.0
414.0
239.6
226.9
114.2
202.0
440.9
293.9
166.9
Chemicals
1,116.2
1,319.3
1,597.6
2,178.5
2,756.1
2,790.7
2,981.6
3,096.2
2,890.4
3,245.6
Chemical Compounds
305.1
311.0
355.1
571.4
715.7
753.0
723.5
821.2
859.1
859.1
772.0879.7
Plastic Materials
247.6
307.6
400.1
591.3
648.2
643.3
687.0
808.1
829.3
721.3
846.0
Medicinal Products
119.2
160.9
161.4
173.2
206.8
203.6
210.7
207.0
222.2
239.0
284.6
Manufactured Goods by Materials
3,277.4
3,630.7
4,566.5
5,736.7
7,237.2
8,079.7
8,407.4
8,089.5
8,045.3
7,082.4
7,613.5
Textile Manufacturers
1,062.5
1,124.7
1,401.4
1,666.1
1,835.6
1,905.0
1,923.7
2,052.4
2,018.3
1,871.5
2,241.6
Non-metal Mineral Manufactures
356.6
406.1
532.7
633.8
904.2
955.7
1,025.7
1,198.4
1,280.6
1,013.7
894.0
Iron & Steel
767.7
870.1
1,138.8
1,461.0
1,854.6
2,360.6
2,596.0
1,890.0
1,730.7
1,425.1
1,463.5
Metal Manufactures
458.1
524.8
621.6
800.5
1,072.2
1,301.6
1,344.2
1,255.4
1,268.1
1,253.6
1,133.4
Paper & Paperboard & Related
Articles
221.4
242.0
310.7
377.1
502.9
532.8
501.7
566.4
647.7
575.4
684.9
Machinery & Transport Equipment
5,794.7
6,738.5
8,607.8
11,343.9
15,303.8
16,474.9
17,219.3
18,046.1
19,419.6
18,317.2
20,780.7
Non-electric Manchinery
2,205.5
2,406.6
3,050.2
4,002.4
5,720.7
6,685.2
7,142.7
6,629.1
7,128.8
6,624.6
7,000.7
Electric Machinery
2,385.7
2,815.7
3,595.2
4,675.5
6,051.7
6,665.7
6,871.3
7,597.1
8,687.0
8,238.1
10,786.8
Transport Equipment
1,203.5
1,516.3
1,962.4
2,666.0
3,531.3
3,123.9
3,205.3
3,819.8
3,603.8
3,454.6
2,993.2
Miscellaneous Manufactured
Articles
1,534.0
1,764.9
2,071.4
2,194.3
2,951.1
3,413.0
3,852.3
3,947.2
4,196.7
4,193.6
4,887.4
Scientific & Optical Instruments
289.0
335.5
439.0
596.0
797.1
938.0
1,034.4
998.2
1,070.6
1,129.4
1,255.9
Watches & Clocks
291.7
321.4
385.9
377.7
567.3
541.9
550.4
537.6
475.6
424.7
475.7
Miscellaneous Transactions nes
267.3
425.7
356.4
510.9
667.4
643.2
567.3
651.1
850.2
898.0
991.2
Source: Department of Statistics up to 1985.
Trade Developmetn Board for 1986.
509
SINGAPORE
STATES OF THE WORLD
510
SINGAPORE
Exports by Commodity:
Million Dollars
Commodity
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
Total
16,265.9
20,090.3
22,985.5
30,940.0
1,452.3
44,290.8
44,472.8
46,154.9
51,340.0
50,178.8
48,985.5
Food
947.8
1,389.4
1,488.0
1,674.0
2,008.2
2,124.8
2,388.0
2,025.1
2,895.4
2,193.1
2,625.5
Cereals & Cereal Preparations
77.9
150.5
169.4
224.0
357.5
449.5
609.7
274.7
839.1
186.5
142.7
Fruits & Vegetables
165.3
191.9
205.1
223.0
252.8
303.2
320.9
342.9
375.9
366.2
340.8
Coffee & Spices
380.2
570.3
594.0
597.0
627.4
659.2
745.5
720.3
960.7
988.2
1,350.1
Beverages & Tobacco
48.9
65.2
99.9
131.0
157.2
174.3
217.0
210.0
209.8
240.8
332.1
Crude Materials
2,664.7
3,160.0
3,483.1
4,412.0
4,700.0
3,665.3
2,781.1
3,388.5
3,410.4
2,699.7
2,458.8
Rubber
1,995.2
2,255.7
2,480.6
3,070.0
3,294.1
2,455.4
1,744.7
2,108.3
2,138.2
1,496.1
1,340.8
Wood
307.0
330.0
408.0
657.0
585.0
426.4
378.4
398.8
365.0
327.9
380.4
Mineral Fuels
3,783.8
4,874.1
5,329.0
7,414.0
14,175.6
14,175.6
14,616.6
12,965.5
13,185.0
13,594.2
10,147.1
Petroleum & Petroleum Products
3,743.7
4,834.6
5,279.1
7,337.0
1,828.0
13,980.6
14,437.3
12,761.9
12,992.3
13,456.1
10,038.9
Animal & Vegetable Oils
249.3
474.7
513.5
858.0
1,095.5
820.0
780.3
628.2
1,540.5
1,535.2
880.4
Unprocessed Vegetable Oils
217.3
386.5
347.8
684.0
840.6
581.7
560.9
451.5
1,115.7
1,128.1
336.2
Chemicals
609.8
716.1
870.5
1,124
1,124.0
1,556.3
1,722.4
1,956.3
2,463.7
2,716.9
2,839.9
Chemical Compounds
105.7
117.8
152.2
231.0
282.6
346.0
380.5
547.2
882.4
917.6
985.5
Medicinal Products
194.0
213.7
233.5
267.0
323.3
319.2
342.8
329.8
259.8
298.1
294.1
Plastic Materials
93.2
121.4
155.7
205.0
220.6
220.5
243.4
263.2
486.3
680.1
732.5
Manufactured Goods by Materials
1,328.8
1,602.2
2,259.7
2,841.0
3,441.7
3,669.8
3,838.7
3,683.1
3,624.6
3,597.8
3,632.7
Wood Manufactures
279.6
297.5
351.4
482.0
549.2
539.3
495.5
536.4
481.0
484.3
447.3
Textile Manufactures
443.5
467.3
606.3
787.0
793.2
737.0
745.6
810.2
781.1
776.9
929.4
Iron & Steel
187.1
263.3
400.4
362.0
454.3
586.3
707.5
411.2
461.5
457.8
433.1
Metal Manufactures
175.7
228.5
287.1
389.0
450.7
578.5
516.9
509.6
530.3
570.6
561.2
Machinery & Transport Equipment
4,106.7
4,917.0
5,715.1
8,216.0
1,089.4
11,779.4
11,546.2
14,677.9
16,865.0
16,567.4
18,900.5
Non-electric Machinery
983.5
1,163.8
1,299.5
1,958.0
2,662.8
3,119.8
3,597.1
4,536.4
5,764.4
6,011.5
7,420.3
Electric Machinery
2,186.4
2,868.0
3,557.4
4,045.0
6,656.6
6,724.7
6,479.4
7,816.8
9,252.1
8,855.0
10,157.7
Transport Equipment
936.8
885.2
858.3
1,212.0
1,770.0
1,934.9
1,469.6
2,324.8
1,848.5
1,701.0
1,322.5
Miscellaneous Manufactured
Articles
1,232.5
1,402.3
1,725.0
2,121.0
2,572.4
2,919.1
2,831.5
3,083.7
3,408.0
3,378.2
4,042.3
Clothing
448.7
514.1
672.2
811.0
912.0
990.1
979.7
1,002.1
1,170.9
1,176.5
1,469.7
Scientific & Optical Instruments
167.0
192.7
200.0
344.0
410.0
481.7
414.6
510.0
594.1
660.4
754.6
Watches & Clocks
235.1
184.9
223.6
189.0
221.8
250.9
232.8
246.2
230.2
200.9
206.8
Miscellaneous Transactions nes
1,293.6
1,489.3
1,501.7
2,144.0
3,003.7
3,406.2
3,751.0
3,532.6
3,737.6
3,655.5
3,126.2
Source: Department of Statistics up to 1985.
Trade Developmetn Board for 1986.
Panjang Wharves ca
93315 loose general
to berth 32 vess
the Port of Singap
or Keopel Wharves is th
container vessels
terminal sight has the capaci
containerised
Tanjong Pagar Co
loving The Port), with over
Wharves, Pasir
PSA operates 5
advigation in the p
port facilities an
isformation. It is resp
statutory boa
(PSA). port is administ
trassportatio and carg
to keep pac
facilities have been
Eadowed with a natu
read-the-clock every di
and link it to near
Bort at any one time.
flying the flags almos
About 30,000 vessels
stable climate have all
fisancial services, a
The efficient communic
location and the well
shipping centre is at
Singapore's reputatic
port was 527.5 million G
shipping tonnage of ve:
the world in terms of
The Port of Singapore.
Daved roads and the rema
Roads. Singapore has 2,
COMMUNICATIONS
commitments were for prc
higher than in 1983.
investment commitments
The Republic remained
increase in industrial
which was opened during
the main growth compone
printing and publishing
electrical, transport ec
range of industrie
Compared with 1983, g
of the GNP.
cent in 1984 and manufa
Industrial Production.
Source: Department of St
'Refers to
Preliminary.
Total incl Rubber Proce.
Rubber Processing
Total exc Rubber
Other Products
Precision Equipment
Transport Equipment
Machinery & Appliances
Fabricated Metal Product
Basic Metals
Non-metallic Minerals
Rubber & Plastic Product
Petroleum
Chemical Products
Paper Products & Printin
Furniture
Mood Products
Wearing Apparel
Textiles
Food & Beverage
Industry
Principal of
SINGAPORE
irincipal
Statistics of Manufacturing by Major Industry Group (Preliminary Figures, 1986):
Establish-
Emp loyees'
Census
Sales
ments1
Brinstry
Workers
Remunera-
Value
Total
Direct
tion
Added
Exports
Number
Million Dollars
And 1 Beverage
304
12,609
203.1
678.2
2,716.9
1,497.7
60
2,528
30.0
66.0
218.1
80.8
446
26,020
222.2
401.6
1,239.2
906.2
108
3,057
34.6
70.2
273.1
127.3
147
7,450
71.5
137.8
374.0
111.3
Printing
391
15,856
242.1
744.6
1,445.1
313.6
144
7,535
179.6
900.5
2,691.6
1,743.5
Astroleum Products
13
3,411
137.4
515.2
6,018.0
3,842.3
250
8,600
102.4
232.3
703.3
147.6
103
5,503
87.8
285.1
839.6
66.4
lasic Metals
32
1,944
42.8
134.1
470.2
168.0
fabricated Metal Products
433
18,284
270.3
718.4
1,955.2
493.1
Backinery & Appliances
670
100,671
1,468.7
4,856.3
14,620.1
12,137.4
Transport Equipment
214
17,216
335.6
1,094.1
2,013.3
1,208.8
Precision Equipment
40
5,077
62.9
200.5
381.3
358.7
other Products
140
5,153
59.8
160.6
547.6
287.1
total excl Rubber Processing
3,495
240,914
3,550.8
11,195.5
36,506.6
23,471.8
Processing
6
450
6.9
7.4
166.1
114.5
Total incl Rubber Processing
3,501
241,364
3,557.7
11,202.0
36,672.7
23,586.3
Refers Preliminary. to establishments engaging 10 or more persons.
Source: Department of Statistics.
major centre for warehousing, offering more than 150,000 sq
Industrial Production. The manufacturing sector grew by 9 per
metres of open and covered space. It has about 2.6 km of wharves
cent in 1984 and manufacturing output accounted for 25 per cent
to accommodate three deep-water, 13 coastal and four lash
of the GNP.
(lighter aboard ship) vessels as well as 46 lighters.
Compared with 1983, growth was more broad-based, spread over a
Sembawang Wharves is also a conventional gateway. It handles
range of industries including the petroleum, electronics,
mainly low-value, high-volume homogeneous cargo such as timber
electrical, transport equipment, metal fabrication, garment, and
and rubber. It has five berths with a total length of 0.8 km.
printing and publishing industries. The electronics industry was
Jurong Port is mainly a dry bulk cargo port which is equipped
the main growth component. Output from the petrochemical complex,
with high-speed cranes and a system of conveyor belts. With a
which was opened during the year, added 2 per cent to the overall
total wharf length of 2.4 km, it can accommodate nine deep-water
increase in industrial output.
and three coastal vessels.
The Republic remained an attractive investment location. Total
The Port of Singapore handled 111.9 m tonnes of cargo in 1984.
investment commitments in 1984 topped $1.8 billion, a shade
This included 63.2 m tonnes of mineral oil-in-bulk. Containerised
bigher than in 1983. A significant portion of investment
cargo which accounted for about 22 m tonnes or about 60 of total
commitments were for projects in computer-related areas.
general cargo moved in some 1.5 m twenty-foot equivalent units
(TEUs).
COMMUNICATIONS
Besides cargo handling, the Port of Singapore offers a host of
STATES OF THE WORLD
Roads. Singapore has 2,614.9 km of public roads, 2,461.1 km are
services such as ship repairing, ship building, ship chandlering
paved roads and the remaining 146.8 km are unpaved roads.
and victualling and bunkering services. Supporting services
include pilotage and tug, supply of fresh water, gas-free
The Port of Singapore. Singapore is one of the busiest ports in
inspection and fumigation, garbage removal and slop reception for
the world in terms of shipping tonnage. In 1984, the total
oil tankers. The port also provides round-the-clock security,
shipping tonnage of vessels arriving at and departing from the
environmental control services such as cleaning oil and debris
port was 527.5 million gross registered tons.
from the sea, and fire-fighting services. Such services are
Singapore's reputation as an important port and a leading
continually upgraded and facilities developed to meet the needs
shipping centre is attributed to her strategic geographical
of shippers and traders.
location and the well developed infrastructure in the Republic.
The efficient communications systems, excellent banking and
Pacific International Lines (PTE), Ltd., PIL Building, 140 Cecil
financial services, a disciplined workforce and a politically
St., Postbox 3206, Singapore 0106; 45 Vessels.
stable climate have all contributed to this growth.
About 30,000 vessels call at Singapore yearly. Some 600 ships
Neptune Orient Lines Ltd., Neptune Building, 456 Alexandra Rd.,
flying the flags almost all the world's maritime nations are in
Singapore 0511; 39 Vessels.
port at any one time. About 500 shipping lines serve Singapore
and link it to nearly all parts of the world: The port works
Guan Guan Shipping (PTE.), Ltd. 2nd Floor, Kwangtung Provincial
round-the-clock every day of the year.
Bank Building, 60 Cecil St., Singapore 0104; 23 Vessels.
Endowed with a natural deep-water harbour, Singapore's port
facilities have been developed continually, over the last 166
Straits Steamship Co., Ltd., 16th Floor, Ocean Building, Collyer
years to keep pace with the changing pattern in sea
Quay, Postbox 596, Singapore 0104; 11 Vessels.
transportation and cargo handling methods.
The port is administered by the Port of Singapore Authority
AIR
(PSA), a statutory board under the Ministry of Communications and
Information. It is responsible for the provision and maintenance
Singapore Changi Airport is located at the eastern corner of
of port facilities and services and for the control of traffic
Singapore, and about 20 km from the city centre.
and navigation in the port.
Access to the Airport is via two high-speed expressways, East
The PSA operates 5 gateways (Tanjong Pagar Container Terminal,
Coast Parkway and Pan Island Expressway.
Keppel Wharves, Pasir Panjang Wharves, Sembawang Wharves and
The Airport is served by two runways. Runway I is 4,000 m long
Jurong Port), with over 15 km of wharves.
and Runway II 3,355 m long. There are 56 parking positions for
The Tanjong Pagar Container Termainal is the main gateway for
passenger aircraft, and of which 22 are with passenger loading
handling containerised cargo, with about 5 km of wharves. The
bridges. In addition, there are six parking positions for cargo
terminal has the capacity to accommodate 42,000 TEUs and to berth
planes, in the vicinity of the cargo complex. There are also
eight container vessels and one feeder vessel.
three aircraft maintenance bays, near to the Singapore Airline's
Keppel Wharves is the oldest and the main conventional gateway
Hanger.
of the Port of Singapore. With about 4.6 km of wharves, it is
Two major projects have been approved for implementation and
able to berth 32 vessels at any one time. Keppel wharves handles
work to construct them will commence in early 1985. The projects
mainly loose general cargo, and some bulk cargo.
are the $700 million second passenger terminal, with two multi-
Pasir Panjang Wharves is a conventional gateway as well as a
storey carparks, and the $27 million third cargo agents building.
The second passenger terminal, to be operational by July 1989,
511
512
SINGAPORE
Gross Domestic Product by Industry:
Million Dollars
Industry
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986*
At Current Market Prices
Total
14,650.9
16,039.0
17,830.4
20,523.0
25,090.7
29,399.4
32,669.9
36,732.8
40,047.9
38,521.1
37,773.6
Agriculture & Fishing
256.8
283.1
273.7
295.2
322.0
356.2
349.1
349.7
358.5
309.1
258.4
Quarrying
56.2
49.1
38.4
42.9
82.7
106.2
128.9
143.0
132.9
111.8
83.6
Manufacturing
3,687.2
4,090.8
4,700.7
5,837.4
7,476.0
8,571.5
8,396.2
9,182.5
10,190.2
9,485.1
10,132.9
Utilities
273.7
291.9
351.5
424.7
557.8
484.9
601.4
703.2
773.5
798.6
845.4
Construction
1,205.1
1,200.3
1,122.2
1,242.6
1,624.4
2,178.8
3,164.8
4,224.8
4,966.0
3,123.8
Commerce
3,815.2
4,232.1
4,631.0
5,135.9
5,717.9
6,289.4
6,921.6
7,286.2
7,500.4
7,113.3
6,901.7
Transport & Communications
1,795.5
2,123.6
2,616.8
2,920.3
3,595.6
4,139.9
4,570.9
5,058.2
5,410.7
5,429.1
5,813.8
Financial & Business Services
2,233.0
2,349.9
2,581.6
3,144.4
4,296.0
5,755.9
6,653.9
7,579.8
8,541.8
8,905.6
8,806.1
Other Services
1,679.4
1,746.8
1,911.9
2,149.1
2,402.4
2,808.3
3,511.5
4,001.2
4,487.2
4,848.6
4,744.4
Less: Imputed Bank Service
Charge
611.6
632.7
737.6
1,039.2
1,410.9
1,778.6
2,109.1
2,306.8
2,827.4
3,196.5
3,329.1
Add: Import Duties
260.4
304.1
340.2
369.7
426.8
427.9
481.5
511.0
514.1
468.1
393.6
At 1968 Market Prices
Total
9,447.4
10,193.2
11,074.0
12,114.1
13,366.5
14,695.2
15,627.5
16,869.8
18,261.5
17,924.9
18,256.8
Agriculture & Fishing
154.9
156.5
155.4
160.7
164.5
165.8
155.6
158.3
164.3
143.9
127.3
Quarrying
43.1
42.0
36.4
41.5
44.9
58.4
73.8
89.1
87.6
80.9
68.4
Manufacturing
2,084.6
2,261.4
2,507.1
2,873.3
3,183.4
3,486.4
3,322.4
3,416.8
3,750.3
3,498.8
3,745.8
Utilities
244.4
276.1
326.1
355.8
381.1
407.6
423.0
457.5
491.7
516.4
565.4
Construction
591.3
578.4
536.1
575.0
630.3
741.4
1,036.2
1,340.8
1,554.7
1,370.9
1,009.6
Commerce
2,450.8
2,642.9
2,827.5
3,035.6
3,263.1
3,452.4
3,661.9
3,836.3
4,054.1
3,970.2
3,930.3
Transport & Communications
1,399.3
1,629.9
1,885.3
2,149.3
2,440.7
2,781.6
3,070.0
3,308.6
3,626.1
3,739.3
4,163.1
Financial & Business Services
1,573.2
1,651.9
1,769.7
1,988.7
2,472.2
2,941.9
3,222.0
3,626.4
4,118.8
4,503.1
4,692.8
Other Services
1,171.7
1,208.2
1,305.6
1,384.2
1,441.7
1,533.2
1,693.4
1,849.8
1,941.9
2,006.0
2,094.3
Less: Imputed Bank Service
Charge
429.5
435.7
471.3
660.9
893.6
1,102.2
1,283.2
1,460.7
1,777.2
2,130.4
2,320.0
Add: Import Duties
163.6
181.6
196.1
210.9
238.2
228.7
252.4
246.9
249.2
225.8
179.8
* Preliminary.
Source: Department of Statistics.
Relanesians. At the beg
the provisional f
and full census was take
transferred under
were island of Bougai:
asin islands of the Sho:
the northe the 1900 in
atd islands of Rennel
Tanikora, the the remote
islands of the Santa
Georgia Group and its
Islands (Guadalcanal,
A British Protectorate
11,500 square miles.
:01 The miles. BEF
of scuth from the Ontong
Santa Cruz Group
islands the extending fro
The Solomon Islands
British High Commissio
Prime Minister: Rt. Ho
CONSTITUTION AND
sinister Or in Dexter Pe C
National Flag
Governor-General H.E
Capital Honiara.
Training Board (VITB)
certificiate. They may
School iciency
if they pass. The Mor
School Leaving Examinat
course). Pupils of th
(an eight-year course)
Biligual course (a six
learning of languages.
The first three ye
ability and who are aca
Japanese is offered tc
Chinese, Malay or Tam
languages; English an
The policy of bilingu
24,699 in pre-universit
277,875 in primary
enrolment was 471,051
and secondary class
122 secondary schools,
445 schools, compris
the morning and another
A number of schools h
every child.
entitled to free prir
Education in Singapo
EDUCATION
and 2,260.3 tonnes of 1
aviation and regional
Selector Airport 1,
cargo were handled.
passengers passed thr
recorded. For the sar
cities. A total of 6.
carrier, operated at
In 1984, 39 interna
office space.
1987, will have 10,500
The third cargo agents
the year 2,000.
during peak hour. It
handle about 10 millio
will have a floor are
SOLOMON ISLANDS
have a floor area of about 280,000 sq m. It will be able to
At the secondary level, based on the PSLE results, pupils will
Madle will about 10 million passengers per annum and 5,000 passengers
be streamed into the Special course (a 4-year course), Express
gring peak hour. It will be able to cater for our traffic upto
course (a 4-year course) or Normal course (4/5-year course).
(M year 2,000.
Pupils of the Special and Express courses sit for the Singapore-
third cargo agents building, which will be completed by mid-
Cambridge General Certificate of Education (GCE) 'Ordinary' Level
1937, The will have 10,500 sq m of warehouse space and 11,500 sq m of
Examination. Normal course pupils sit for the GCE 'Normal' Level
wrice space.
Examination at the end of the 4th year. Those who do well can
ja 1984, 39 international airlines, including the national
proceed to the 5th year and take the GCE '0' Level Examination.
carrier, A total of 63,808 (commercial) aircraft movements were
operated at Changi Airport to 47 countries and 75
Based on the GCE '0' Level results the pupils can apply for two-
year or three-year pre-university course leading to the GCE
Elties. recorded. For the same period, under review some 9.4 million
'Advanced' Level Examination.
passengers passed through the Airport, and 295,000 tonnes of
cargo were handled.
Higher Education
Selector Airport in 1984, continued to serve as a general
There are five tertiary institutions: the National University of
wistion and regional airport. 31,107 passengers used the Airport
Singapore, the Nanyang Technological Institute, the Ngee Ann
ged 2,260.3 tonnes of freight were handled.
Polytechnic, the Singapore Polytechnic and the Institute of
Education. In June 1984, the total enrolment in the tertiary
EDUCATION
institutions was 35,783.
Escation in Singapore is not compulsory. All children are
estitled to free primary education and a place is ensured for
Vocational and Industrial Training Board
The Vocational and Industrial Training Board (VITB) promotes,
every child.
A number of schools work on a shift system, one functioning in
provides and regulates vocational training in Singapore. It
the morning and another in the afternoon. In June 1985 there were
conducts institutional training for school-leavers, offers part-
45 schools, comprising 60 kindergartens, 236 primary schools,
time continuing education and training programmes and registers
122 secondary schools, 16 full schools (ie schools with primary
apprentices. The VITB Is also responsible for setting national
and secondary classes) and 11 junior colleges. The total
skills standards, the conduct of public trade testing and
esrolment was 471,051 of which 4,887 were in pre-primary classes,
certification of skills.
277,875 in primary schools, 163,590 in secondary schools and
NEWSPAPERS
24,699 in pre-university centres and junior colleges.
The policy of bilingualism ensures that children are taught two
Cir. Fig.
languages; English and one of the other official languages;
Straits Times.
Times House,
260,000
Chinese, Malay or Tamil. The option to study French, German or
Berita Harian.
390, Kim Seng Road,
39,000
Japanese is offered to secondary school pupils with linguistic
Business Times.
Singapore 0923
16,000
ability and who are academically bright, as a third language.
The first three years of primary education emphasize the
Lian He Zao Bao.
News Centre
189,000
learning of languages. Pupils are then streamed into the Normal
Lian He Wan Bao.
82, Genting Lane,
76,000
Biligual course (a six-year course), Extended Bilingual course
Maxwell P.O. Box 27
(an eight-year course) or the Monolingual course (an eight-year
course). Pupils of the bilingual courses sit for the Primary
Shin Min Daily News.
577, MacPherson Road
94,000
School Leaving Examination (PSLE) and go on to the seondary level
Singapore 1336
If they pass. The Monolingual course pupils sit for the Primary
School Proficiency Examination (PSPE) and are awarded a
Tamil Murasu.
139-41, Lavender Street
6,000
certificiate. They may then join the Vocational and Industrial
Singapore 1233
Training Board (VITB) for pre-vociational training.
Circulation figures based on average per issue for the quarter
April-June 1985.
STATES OF THE WORLD
SOLOMON ISLANDS
Capital Honiara.
with an annual growth rate of approximately 3.4 per cent.
Until 1960 the High Commissioner, who administered the
Governor-General - H.E. Sir Baddeley Devesi, GCMG, GCVO.
Protectorate, was assisted by an Advisory Council. In that year
nominated Executive and Legislative Councils were established and
National Flag - Per bend sinister Azure and Vert a bendlet
elected members were introduced in 1964. A revised constitution
sinister Or in Dexter chief five Mullets in Saltire Argent.
was introduced in 1967 and from then until its dissolution in
March 1970 the Legislative Council consisted of three ex-officio
CONSTITUTION AND GOVERNMENT
members, 14 elected members and not more than 12 public service
Prime Minister: Rt. Hon. Sir Peter Kenilorea KBE.
members.
In 1970, the Executive and Legislative Councils were replaced by
British High Commissioner: Mr. G. N. Stansfield.
a single Governing Council, with an elected majority for the
first time, which combined both executive and legislative
The Solomon Islands consist of a double row of mountainous
functions and exercises executive control through a series of
islands extending from Bougainville Straits to Mitre Island in
functional committees.
the Santa Cruz Group for a distance of 900 miles, and north and
In 1974 a new Constitution was introduced, and a new office of
south from the Ontong Java group to Rennell Island for a distance
Governor of the Protectorate, replacing the High Commissioner was
of 430 miles. The total land area of the territory is about
introduced. The Governing Council was replaced in its legislative
11,500 square miles.
capacity by the new Legislative Assembly whose 24 elected members
A British Protectorate was proclaimed over the Southern Solomon
chose a Chief Minister. He selected the Ministers who, together
Islands (Guadalcanal, Savo, Malaita, San Cristobal, the New
with ex-officio members, formed the Council of Ministers, which
Georgia Group and its dependencies) in 1893. In 1898 and 1899 the
replaced the Governing Council in its executive capacity.
islands of the Santa Cruz group, including Utupua, Tikopia,
Originally the Council of Ministers was composed of six Ministers
Vanikora, the remote islands of Cherry and Mitre, Sikaiana, and
and three ex-officio members, but in June 1975 the number of
the islands of Rennel and Bellona were added to the protectorate,
Ministers was increased to eight, to include a Minister of
and in 1900 the northern islands, namely Santa Isabel, Choiseul,
Finance, and the number of ex-officio members dropped to two.
the islands of the Shortlands Group, south and south-east of the
Internal self-government was conferred on 2 January 1976. Under
main island of Bougainville, and the atoll group of Ontong Java,
the revised Constitution, the Governor had to act in accordance
were transferred under convention from Germany to Great Britain.
with the advice of the Council of Ministers except in his
A full census was taken in the Solomon Islands in February 1976,
reserved subjects of defence, external affairs, and internal
and the provisional figure for the population was 196,823 mainly
security. The Public Service was executivized. The Council of 10
Melanesians. At the beginning of 1981 it was estimated at 233,000
Ministers presided over by the Chief Minister and collectively
responsible to the Legislative Assembly has increased from 24 to
513
Nat' 1. Antheras of the World
393
SINGAPORE
Majulah Singapura
';
Words and music by
ZUBIR SAID (b. 1907)
(d = 116)
Arr. by HENRY COLEMAN
*
Ma-ri ki - ta ra' - yat Si-nga-pu-
ra Le-one.
9
- ra sa - ma sa - ma me - nu - ju
ba-ha-gi - a.
Chi- ta chi- -
*
- ta ki - ta yang mu-li-a
Ber-ja-ya Si-nga-pu - ra!
For Royal Salute play from * to *
First 3 performed September, 1958. It became very popular and when the country became self-governing
Assembly on 30 November, 1959.
June, 1959, it was decided to make it the National Anthem. It was officially adopted as such by the Legislative on
394
Words by
PANAPAS
Ma-ri-lah ki - ta ber- - sa - tu,
MATILA I
De ngan se - ma - ngat yang ba -
9
- ru.
Se-mu - a ki - ta ber - se - ru
Ma-ju-lah_ Si-nga-pu-
V
and
1.
2.
9
- ra,
Ma-ju-lah Si-nga-pu - ra!
Ma-ri- - ra!
an-
Free Translation
Is
Let us, the people of Singapore, together march
forward towards happiness. Our noble aspiration
is to see Singapore achieve success.
$
Let us unite in a new spirit. We all pray:
"May Singapore Progress", "May Singapore Progress".
Chosen as t!
Fodor's Southeast Asia
330
Introduction
331
Introduction
dia, there are also Muslims from South India and, in smaller
numbers, Bengalis, Biharis, Gujeratis, Marathis, Kashmiris,
by Nigel Fisher
As you are efficiently processed through Changi International
and Punjabis. From Sri Lanka come other Hindu Tamils and
Nigel Fisher is the
Airport, then whisked away in a taxi or air-conditioned coach
the Sinhalese (often mistaken for Indians), who are neither
editor of the
along a park-lined expressway to your high-rise hotel, don't let
Hindu nor Muslim but follow the teachings of Hinayana Bud-
monthly travel
first impressions lead you to write Singapore off as just another
dhism.
publication
modern international city. Though it may no longer be the rich-
ly exotic and romantic city S0 vividly documented by Conrad
Today, Indians, who account for 7% of Singapore's population,
Voyager
and Kipling, Singapore is yet a unique city where the flavor,
remain deeply tied to their community and traditional customs.
International. He
spirituality, and gentle manners of the East peacefully co-exist
Hinduism remains a powerful force-Singapore has more than
has traveled
extensively
with the comforts, conveniences, and efficiency of the West.
20 major temples devoted to Hindu gods-and some of the
Tamil Hindu festivals, such as Thaipusam, are expressed with
throughout Asia
Here you'll find some of the world's most luxurious hotels, of-
more feverish ritualism than in India. Indian food, too, remains
and the world.
fering incomparable service and all the amenities, from fitness
true to its roots; it has been said that one can eat better curries
centers with computer-monitored exercise equipment to thick
in Singapore than in India.
terry-cloth bathrobes. On Orchard Road, smartly dressed
shoppers browse among glittering shop windows before head-
While the Malays, Chinese, and Indians account for 97% of
ing into the dozens of huge side-by-side shopping complexes,
Singapore's population, other ethnic groups-from Eurasians
jam-packed with boutiques carrying the latest Paris fashions
to Filipinos, from Armenians to Thais-contribute significant-
or electronics at irresistible prices. And in elegant
ly to the nation's cultural mix. Understandably, the British and
French restaurants, with gleaming silver and crystal and elab-
the heritage of their colonial stay is profoundly felt even though
orate displays of orchids and roses, tuxedoed waiters serve
Singapore became an independent nation in 1967.
some of the best cuisine this side of the Seine.
In a part of the world where histories tend to be ancient and
Here you'll also find ethnic neighborhoods, built up around
rich, Singapore is unique in having almost no history at all.
mosques and temples, where Chinese or Indian or Malay mer-
Modern Singapore tends to date its history from the early
chants dressed in traditional garb hawk the herbal medicines or
morning of anuary 29, 1819, when a representative of the Brit-
spices or batiks that spill out of their small shops onto the nar-
ish East India Company, Thomas Stamford Raffles, stepped
row streets. At the many food centers that dot the city,
ashore at Singa Pura (Sanskrit for "lion city"), as the island was
Teochew and Hokkien, Tamil and Malay cooks in adjacent open-
then called, hoping to establish a British trading settlement on
front stalls whip up authentic and delicious dishes whose reci-
the southern part of the Malay Peninsula. The two sons of the
pes have been handed down in their families for generations.
previous sultan, who had died six years earlier, were in dispute
To arrive in Singapore is to step into a world where the muezzin
over who would inherit the throne. Raffles backed the claim of
call to prayer competes with the bustle of capitalism; where old
the elder brother, Tunku Hussein Mohamed Shah, and pro-
men play mah-jongg in the streets and white-clad bowlers send
claimed him sultan. Offering to support the new sultanate with
the ball flying down well-tended cricket pitches; where Chi-
British military strength, Raffles persuaded him to grant the
nese fortune tellers and high-priced management consultants
British a lease allowing them to establish a trading post on the
advise the same entrepreneur.
island in return for an annual rent; within a week the negotia-
tions were concluded. (A later treaty ceded the island outright
This great diversity of lifestyles, cultures, and religions
to the British.)
thrives within the framework of a well-ordered society. Singa-
pore is a spotlessly clean-some say sterile-modern metropo-
Thus began the continual rapid changing and adapting that
lis, surrounded by green, groomed parks and populated by 2.7
characterizes Singapore to this day: Within three years, the
million extremely polite, well-mannered people.
small fishing village, surrounded by swamps and jungle and
populated by only tigers and 200 or SO Malays, had become a
Malays, who have the oldest historical claim to Singapore, to-
boomtown of 10,000 immigrants, administered by 74 British
day account for 14.9% of its population. Their faith in Allah and
employees of the East India Company.
their orientation to family and service to the community pro-
vide a more relaxed, peaceful, and communal flavor and act as a
As Singapore grew, the British erected splendid public build-
counterpoint to the entrepreneurial vigor of the Chinese.
ings, churches, and hotels, often using Indian convicts for la-
bor. The Muslim, Hindu, Taoist, and Buddhist communities-
Though the Chinese make up approximately 76% of the popula-
swelling rapidly from the influx of fortune-seeking settlers
tion, their ranks comprise at least half a dozen different ethnic
from Malaya, India, and South China-built mosques, tem-
groups-Hokkien, Teochew, Cantonese, Hakka, Fukien,
ples, and shrines. Magnificent houses for wealthy merchants
Hainanese-each with its own language, mythology, and espe-
sprang up, and the harbor became lined with godowns (ware-
cially cuisine. They came as impoverished immigrants in the
houses) to hold all the goods passing through the port.
19th century and now hold the economic and political strings of
the island nation.
It was certainly an exotic trade that poured through Singa-
Singapore's Indian population, who also descend from 19th-
pore. Chinese junks came loaded with tea, porcelain, silks, and
artworks; Bugis (Indonesian) schooners carried in cargos of
century immigrants, are almost as ethnically diverse as the
Chinese. While the majority are Hindu Tamils from South In-
precious spices, rare tropical hardwoods, camphor, and pro-
duce from all parts of Indonesia. These goods, and more like
Singapore
334
Staying in Singapore
335
them from Siam, the Philippines, and elsewhere in the region,
were traded in Singapore for manufactured textiles, coal, iron,
Staying in Singapore
cement, weapons, and machinery and other fruits of Europe's
industrial revolution. Another major product traded here by
Getting Around Singapore
the British was opium, grown in India and sold to mainland
China.
By Subway The most recent addition to Singapore's public transport sys-
By the turn of the century, Singapore had become the entrepôt
tem is a superb subway, known as the MRT, consisting of two
of the East, a mixture of adventurers and "respectable middle
lines that run north-south and east-west and cross at the City
classes." World War I hardly touched the island, although its
Hall and Raffles Place interchanges. The System includes a to-
defenses were strengthened to support the needs of the British
tal of 42 stations along 67 km (42 mi). All cars and underground
navy, for which Singapore was an important base. When World
stations are air-conditioned, and the trains operate between
War II broke out, the British were complacent about the im-
5:45 AM and midnight daily.
pregnability of Singapore, expecting that any attack would
Tickets may be purchased in the stations from vending machines
come from the sea and that they were well prepared to meet
(which give change) or at a booth. There's a S$2 fine for underpay-
such an attack. But the Japanese landed to the north, in Ma-
ing, SO make sure you buy the right ticket for your destination.
laya. The two British battleships that had been posted to Sin-
Fares start at S$.50 for about two stations; the maximum fare is
gapore were sunk, and the Japanese land forces raced down the
S$1.10. The fare between Orchard Road Station and Raffles Place
peninsula on bicycles.
Station (in the business district) is S$.60. For information, call
In February 1942 the Japanese captured Singapore. Huge
732-4411.
numbers of Allied civilians and military were sent to Changi
By Bus Buses are much cheaper than taxis and-with a little prac-
Prison; others were marched off to prison camps in Malaya or to
tice-easy to use. During rush hours, they can be quicker than
work on the notorious "Death Railway" in Thailand. The 3½
cabs, since there are special bus lanes along the main roads.
years of occupation was a time of privation and fear for the civil-
Some buses are air-conditioned, and service is frequent-
ian population; up to 100,000 deaths are estimated during this
usually every five to 10 minutes on most routes. Even with-
period. The Japanese surrendered on August 21, 1945, and the
out the excellent Bus Guide, available for S$.75 at any book-
Allied military forces returned to Singapore. However, the se-
store, finding your way around is relatively easy. Bus stops
curity of the British Empire was never again to be felt, and in-
close to sightseeing attractions have signs pointing out the
dependence for British Southeast Asia was only a matter of
attractions.
time.
The minimum fare is S$.40, the maximum S$.80. Exact change
In 1957 the British government agreed to the establishment of
is necessary (conductors cannot give change) and should be de-
an elected 51-member legislative assembly in Singapore. Gen-
posited in the box as you enter the bus. Remember to collect
eral elections in 1959 gave an overwhelming majority-43 of 51
your ticket. Bus numbers are clearly marked, and most stops
seats-to the People's Action Party (PAP), and a young Chi-
have a list of destinations with the numbers of the buses that
nese lawyer named Lee Kuan Yew became Singapore's first
service them. Buses run from 5:30 or 6 AM until around 11:30 PM.
prime minister. In 1963 Singapore became part of the Federa-
tion of Malaysia, along with the newly independent state of Ma-
The Singapore Explorer Bus Ticket, which may be purchased at
laysia.
most major hotels, lets you travel anywhere on the island on
any bus operated by Singapore Bus Service (SBS-the red-
Mainly due to Malays' anxiety over a possible takeover by the
and-white buses) or Trans Island Bus Service (TIBS-the
ethnic Chinese, the federation broke up two years later and
orange-and-yellow buses). You may embark and disembark as
Singapore became an independent sovereign state. The electo-
frequently as you like, flashing your pass as you board. A one-
rate has remained faithful to Lee Kuan Yew and the PAP. To-
day there is only one opposition member in Parliament,
day pass costs S$5 and a three-day pass costs S$12. With this
ticket you also receive an Explorer Bus Map with color-coded
though, at the last election, the PAP's popular majority was the
lowest it has ever been. Singaporeans don't necessarily like the
routes showing bus stops and all major points of interest. For
fact that Lee Kuan Yew's will substantially decides their fu-
further details, call the Singapore Bus Service Passenger Rela-
ture, but they recognize that it is largely as a result of his firm
tions Center (tel. 287-2727).
control and acumen that Singapore is a safe, clean, comfort-
Coming from Malaysia, you can board a public bus at the Johore
able, prosperous nation. Lee Kuan Yew promises to resign at
bus station or after the Malaysia checkpoint, at the causeway.
the end of 1990, after 31 years in office. Because his son is un-
You get off the bus on the other side of the causeway at the Sin-
able to immediately step into his shoes, however, Yew will re-
gapore checkpoint, then reboard the bus for the ride into the
main influential in government as a senior minister.
city's center. Since you may not be reboarding the same
bus-depending on the line at Immigration-do not leave your
belongings behind when you get off.
By Taxi There are more than 10,000 taxis in Singapore, strictly regu-
lated and metered. Many are air-conditioned. The starting fare
is S$1.90 for the first 1.5 km (0.9 mi) and S$. for each subse-
quent 275 meters (900 feet). After 10 km (6 mi) the rate in-
Singapore
340
Staying in Singapore
341
lic transportation system that provides easy, low-cost access
Mid-Jan. During Ponggal, the four-day harvest festival, Tamil Indians
around the city of Singapore and the island.
from South India offer rice, curries, vegetables, sugarcane,
Taxes There is no sales tax in Singapore. A 4% government tax is
and spices in thanksgiving to the Hindu gods. In the evening,
added to restaurant and hotel bills; sometimes a 10% service
the celebration takes place at the temples, where rice is cooked
charge is added as well. There is a S$12 airport departure tax
while prayers are chanted to the music of bells, drums, clari-
(for travelers to Malaysia, the tax is S$5). It is payable at the
nets, and conch shells. The Perumal Temple of Serangoon Road
airport. To save time and avoid standing in line, you can buy a
is the best place to view these rites.
tax voucher at your hotel or any airline office.
Mid-Jan.-Feb. Thaipusam, probably the most spectacular-and certainly the
Sample Prices Cup of coffee, 50e; large bottle of beer, $2; lunch at a hawker
most gruesome-festival in Asia, celebrates the victory of the
stand, $5; dinner at an elegant restaurant, $25; full breakfast at
Hindu god Subramaniam over the demon Idumban. After
a luxury hotel, $9. The cost of a standard double room: moder-
night-long ritual purification and chanting, penitents enter a
ate, $75-$115; very expensive, over $150.
trance. and pierce their flesh with knives, steel rods, and fish
hooks, which they wear during the procession. The 8.1-km (5-
Language
mi) procession begins at the Perumal Temple on Serangoon
Road, passes the Sri Mariamman Temple on South Bridge
Singapore is a multiracial society with four official languages:
Road, and ends at the Chettiar Temple.
Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, and English. The national language is
Chinese New Year is the only time the Chinese stop working.
Malay; the lingua franca is English. English, also the language
The lunar New Year celebration lasts for 15 days, and most
of administration, is a required course for every schoolchild,
and is used in the entrance examinations for universities.
shops and businesses close for about a week.
Hence, virtually all Singaporeans speak English with varying
Feb. The end of the Chinese New Year is marked by the Chingay
degrees of fluency. Mandarin is increasingly replacing the
Procession. Chinese, Malays, and Indians all get into the act for
other Chinese dialects. However, many Chinese will use
this event. Clashing gongs and beating drums, lion dancers
SinEnglish, a Singaporean version of English, to converse with
lead a procession of Chinese stilt-walkers, swordsmen, warri-
other ethnic groups, including other Chinese.
ors, acrobats, and characters from Chinese myth and legend.
Opening and Closing Times
Feb. or Mar. The Birthday of the Monkey God celebrates this character
greatly loved by the Chinese. His birth is marked with a festi-
Businesses are generally open weekdays 9 or 9:30 to 5 or 5:30;
val twice a year in Chinese temples-once in the spring and
some, not many, are also open on Saturday mornings.
again around September. Mediums; with skewers piercing
their cheeks and tongues, go into trances. Chinese street oper-
Banks Banking hours are weekdays 10-3, Saturday 9:30-11:30 AM.
as and puppet shows are usually performed in temple court-
Branches of the Development Bank of Singapore stay open un-
yards, and processions are held at the temples along Eng Hoon
til 3 PM on Saturday. The bank at Changi airport is open whenev-
and Cumming streets.
er there are flights. Money-changers operate whenever there are
customers in the shopping centers they serve.
Apr.-May
Ramadan is the month of daytime fasting among the city's Mus-
lim population. Food stalls in Bussorah Street and around the
Museums Many museums close on Monday; otherwise, they are generally
Sultan Mosque sell a variety of dishes at the end of the day's
open 9-5.
fast.
Shops Shop opening times vary. Department stores and many shops
May or June The Birthday of the Third Prince celebrates this child god. The
in big shopping centers are generally open seven days a week
Chinese worship him as a hero and a miracle-worker. A temple
from about 10 to 8 (later some evenings). Smaller shops tend to
in his honor is located at the junction of Clarke Street and
close on Sundays, although there is no firm rule now that com-
North Boat Quay, near Chinatown; on his birthday, it is
petition is so intense.
crowded with noisy worshipers who come to watch the flashy
Chinese operas, which begin around noon.
National Holidays
Vesak Day commemorates the Buddha's birth, Enlightenment,
The following are national holidays: Jan. 1 (New Year's Day);
and death. It is the most sacred annual festival in the Buddhist
Jan. 27, 28 (Chinese New Year); Good Friday (Apr. 13); Hani
calendar. Throughout the day, starting before dawn, saffron-
Raya Puasa (Apr. 26); Labor Day (May 1); Vesak Day (May 9);
robed monks chant holy sutras in all the major Buddhist tem-
Hari Raya Haji (July 3); National Day (Aug. 9); Dee'pavali
ples. Captive birds are set free. Candlelight processions are
(Oct. 7); Dec. 24.
held around some of the temples in the evening.
Festivals and Seasonal Events
June The Dragon Boat Festival commemorates the martyrdom of Qu
Yuan, a Chinese poet and minister of state during the Chou dy-
Singapore is a city of festivals, from the truly exotic to the
nasty (4th century BC), who was exiled for speaking out against
strictly-for-tourists. The exact dates vary from year to year ac-
court corruption and finally threw himself into the river. On see-
cording to the lunar or Islamic calendar.
ing Qu Yuan's final and desperate act, local fishermen thrashed
the water with their oars and beat drums to prevent fish from de-
vouring their drowning hero. The anniversary of his death is cele-
Singapore
342
Staying in Singapore
343
brated with a regatta of boats decorated with dragon heads and
painted in brilliant colors.
and a Chinese Santa Claus appears every S0 often to encourage
everyone to buy and give presents.
July During the Birdsong Festival, owners of tuneful birds hold com-
petitions to see whose chirps best.
Tipping
Aug. 9 National Day, the anniversary of the nation's independence, is
a day of processions, fireworks, folk and dragon dances, and na-
Tipping is not customary in Singapore, and the government ac-
tional pride. The finest view is from the Padang, where the
tively discourages it. It is prohibited at the airport and not en-
main participants put on their best show. Tickets for special
couraged in hotels that levy a 10% service charge or in
seating areas are available through the STPB.
restaurants. Hotel bellboys are usually tipped S$1 per bag for
handling luggage. Taxi drivers are not tipped by Singaporeans.
Aug.-Sept. For a month each year, during the Chinese Festival of the Hun-
gry Ghosts, the Gates of Hell are opened and ghosts are free to
Guided Tours
wander the Earth. The unhappy ghosts, those who died with-
out descendants, may cause trouble and must therefore be pla-
A wide range of sightseeing tours cover the highlights of Singa-
cated with offerings. Imitation money ("Hell money") and joss
pore. They are especially convenient for business travelers or
sticks are burned, and prayers are said at all Chinese temples
others on a tight schedule and can be easily arranged through
and in front of Chinese shops and homes. Chinese-opera
the tour desks in hotels. The following are a few of the tour op-
(wayang) performances are held on open-air stages set up in
erators providing services through major hotels, but there are
the streets.
many others as well. RMG Tours (5001 Beach Rd., #08-12 Gold-
Sept. The Mooncake Festival, a traditional Chinese celebration, is
en Mile Complex, tel. 298-3944) organizes nightlife and food
tours. Siakson Coach Tours (3 Miller St., Siakson Bldg., tel.
held on the night of the year when the full moon is thought to be
336-0268) has daily tours to the ZOO and Mandai Gardens, plus
at its brightest. The Chinese have nighttime picnics and carry
excursions to Malaysia. Tour East International (163 Tanglin
lanterns through the streets. Mooncakes-sweet pastries
Rd., tel. 235-5205) offers a variety of tours in Singapore and
filled with red-bean paste, lotus seeds, nuts, and egg
excursions to Malaysia and Indonesia. Elpin Tours and Limou-
yolks-are eaten in abundance.
sine Services (317 Outram Rd., #02-23 Glass Hotel, tel.
Sept.-Oct. During the nine-day Navarathri Festival, Hindus pay homage to
235-3111) arranges tours of Sentosa Island.
three goddesses: Parvati, consort of Shiva the Destroyer;
The itineraries offered by the different tour operators are very
Lakshmi, goddess of wealth and consort of Vishnu the Protec-
similar. Tours can take two hours or the whole day, and prices
tor; and Sarawathi, goddess of education and consort of Brah-
range from S$16 to S$70. Most are operated in comfortable,
ma the Creator. On all nights, at the Chettiar Temple on Tank
air-conditioned coaches with guides and include pickup and re-
Road, there are performances of classical Indian music, drama,
turn at your hotel. Tour agencies can also arrange private-car
and dancing from 7 to 10. On the last evening, the image of a
tours with guides; these are considerably more expensive.
silver horse is taken from its home in the Chettiar Temple and
paraded around the streets.
Orientation These are 3½-hour tours, given in the morning or the after-
City Highlights
noon. Itineraries vary slightly, but generally you will be shown
Oct. The Chinese believe that the deities celebrated in the Festival
some of the major sightseeing and shopping areas, including
of the Nine Emperor Gods can cure illness, bring good luck and
Orchard Road, the high-rise business district along Shenton
wealth, and encourage longevity. They are honored in most
Way, and the historic buildings along the Padang. You will also
Chinese temples on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month; the
see Chinatown and probably the Thian Hock Keng Temple. A
celebrations are at their most spectacular in the temples on Up-
visit to the Sri Mariamman Temple, a stroll through the beauti-
per Serangoon Road and at Lorong Tai Seng.
ful Botanical Gardens, a drive up Mount Faber for a panoramic
Oct.-Nov. In the Thimithi Festival, Indian Hindus honor the goddess
view of the city, and a visit to a handicraft factory are also likely
Duropadai by walking on fire. According to myth, Duropadai
to be included. A morning city tour usually features the "In-
proved her chastity by walking over flaming coals. Today wor-
stant Asia" cultural show.
shipers repeat her feat by walking barefoot over a bed of red-
City and East or
If the tour covers the east coast, you'll see the city highlights
hot embers. See the spectacle at the Sri Mariamman Temple on
West Coast and visit some rural sights, such as a Malay village and/or the
South Bridge Road.
Kuan Yin Temple. You may also visit the infamous Changi Pris-
Deepavali celebrates the triumph of Krishna over the demon
on and drive through the green coastal area. This tour takes 4½
king Nasakasura. All Indian homes and temples are decorated
hours. The west-coast tour includes the Chinese and Japanese
with oil lamps and garlands. In Little India the streets are bril-
gardens and the Jurong Bird Park.
liantly illuminated.
Boat Trips Water Tours (3-A, 1st floor, Clifford Pier, tel. 914-4519) oper-
Nov. Merlion Week is Singapore's version of Carnival, with food
ates motorized junks for cruises in the harbor and to Kusu Is-
fairs, fashion shows, masquerade balls, and fireworks displays.
land. J & N Cruise (24 Raffles Pl., #26-02 Clifford Centre, tel.
Brochures of the activities are available in every hotel.
533-2733) operates the Equator Dream, a catamaran that of-
Nov.-Dec. Being a multiracial society, Singapore has taken Christmas to
fers lunch, high tea, and dinner cruises (with disco) around the
harbor and to the islands. Island Cruises (50 Collyer Quay,
its commercial heart. All the shops are deep in artificial snow,
#01-27 Overseas Union House, tel. 221-8333) offers breakfast,
CONTROL/SITE OFFICERS FOR VISIT TO SINGAPORE
BY PRESIDENT BUSH, DECEMBER 3-4
Control Officer: DCM - AKobler
Deputy Control Officer: E/P - LGreenwood
President's Program/Schedules: E/P - LGreenwood/IS0 - ALong
Mrs. Bush's Program/Schedule: CONS - CCourtney
Admin Control: ADMIN - RCourtney
Public Affairs: PAO - DDonahue
Press: USIS TDY
Press center: USIS TDY
Hotel/Room Assignments: TDY - Paul Dwayne (KL-BMO)
Security: RSO - DQuiram
Communications: CPU - FPressley
Medical Liaison: MED - AKoh
Transportation: TDY with GAlexander
Motorcade officers: AG - SSnitzler
Baggage: GSO - GKorkowski
Protocol/gifts/Thank you: CONS - JSamuelson
Military liaison: DAO - Capt. Cooper
AF-1: DAO - BWilhight
Visitors control room: PER - BJustesen
Control room set-up/supplies: GSO - FMatthews
Event/site officers
Arrival (aircraft): DAO - BWilhight
Arrival/departure (airport): AID/RIG/I: JMcGunn
Arrival/residence: E/P - -MWallack
ASEAN Ambassadors Briefing: E/P - MAyschenbach
Singapore lecture: E/P - RPollard
Groundbreaking/American community address: GSO - FMatthews
(with help for CLO - DSnitzler for Am Community liaison)
Welcome ceremony Istana: E/P - KJarrett
Meetings with President Wee, PM and SM: E/P - KJarrett
Banquet at Istana: E/P - RArmstrong
Military facility: DAllen, JCasper
Other Control Officers
Secretary Baker: E/P - RPollard
Chief of Staff Sununu: E/P - MWallack
NSC Adviser Scowcroft: CONS - DHeian
ASEAN Ambassadors: E/P - MAyschenbach
FREE FILL FREE
will
VIEW FROM CORNER OF BRAS BASAH/NORTH BRIDGE ROAD
VIEW FROM BEACH ROAD
RAFFLES HOTEL
SINGAPORE
FORINFORMATION
A BRIEF CHRONOLOGY OF HISTORIC RAFFLES HOTEL
1887
In September a short article in the local press announces the intention
of the Sarkies Brothers, proprietors of the Eastern and Oriental in
Penang, to open a hotel in Singapore and name it after Singapore's
founder Sir Stamford Raffles. The location: the old bungalow at the
corner of Beach and Bras Basah Roads belonging to the Arab trader
Mohamed Alsagoff. On December 1st Raffles Hotel opens to the public
as a 10-room Hotel. Over the next few years a pair of wings flanking
the bungalow are added.
1888
Author Joseph Conrad, then a seaman plying the eastern seas, is
believed to be one of Raffles' earliest guests. Not long after, the young
Rudyard Kipling who is on an around the world trip dines at the hotel
and writes "Feed at Raffles". These men of letters inaugurate the
Hotel's legendary literary tradition which continues today.
1892
The Sarkies expand their business, opening Raffles Tiffin Rooms in May
at Raffles Place. Martin Sarkies, the eldest brother, retires from the
business. Tigrin is placed in charge of the Singapore operations; Aviet
is stationed in Rangoon where he guides the opening of the Strand
Hotel; and Arshak looks after the E&O in Penang, the oldest of the
family's hotels.
1894
In December the Palm Court wing is opened.
1899
Raffles' familiar Main Building is completed and opens with great
fanfare on November 18th. This marks the beginning of the hotels'
heyday. The elegant neo-Renaissance architecture and grand spaces
bespeak comfort and style. The Hotel also boasts Singapore's first
electric lights and fans and a French chef. Raffles Hotel rapidly
becomes a magnet for travellers and Singapore residents.
1902
In August the last tiger to be killed in Singapore is pursued at Raffles
Hotel and is finally shot while cowering under the Bar & Billiard Room,
then an elevated building.
RAFFLES HOTEL, 11 BEACH ROAD, SINGAPORE 0718, TEL: 337-8041, TLX: RS 20396 RINTL, FAX: 339-7650.
A BRIEF CHRONOLOGY OF HISTORIC RAFFLES HOTEL
Page 2/-
1904
The Bras Basah wing opens, making Raffles Hotel "the most magnificent
establishment of its kind East of Suez", according to a newspaper report
of the day. The Hotel is the venue for numerous social events, from
dinner dances to skating dinners and billiard competitions, and plays
host to travellers from all over the globe.
1907
The two-table Bar & Billiard Room is enlarged and remodelled to hold
six tables. The building, which is transformed into guest rooms a
decade later, becomes a landmark in the city.
1910
The Raffles Hotel Post Office opens, serving Hotel guests and the
surrounding area up to the late 1920s.
1913
A cast iron verandah, complete with stained glass, is added to the front
of the Main Building. Here travellers imbibe the Hotel's offerings while
enjoying cool sea breezes.
1915
Bartender Ngiam Tong Boon creates the Million Dollar Cocktail and
Singapore Sling. A. Dietz composes "The Raffles March' and dedicates
it to Tigrin Sarkies.
1920
The verandah is replaced by an airy ballroom which quickly earns the
reputation of the "finest ballroom in the East".
1921
Somerset Maugham makes the first of his visits to Raffles Hotel; he
returns again in 1926 and in 1959. Legend has it that he works all
mornings under a frangipani tree in the Palm Court, turning the bits of
gossip and scandal overheard at dinner parties into his famous stories.
This is the decade that sees the beginnings of the "tourism industry" in
Singapore and Malaya. In recognition of this trend the Hotel publishes
its own guidebooks. The Hotel continues to play host to the rich and
famous, including Charlie Chaplin, Maurice Chevalier, Frank Buck and
Jean Harlow.
1930
Noel Coward, the British playwright, novelist and actor, arrives at
Raffles Hotel in the company of Lord Amherst. While here he plays the
part of Captain Stanhope in the play 'Journey's End' which is being
presented by a visiting dramatic troupe at Victoria Theatre.
A BRIEF CHRONOLOGY OF HISTORIC RAFFLES HOTEL
Page 3/-
1931
The Great Depression and slump in the Malayan rubber trade take their
toll on the colony's economy. Raffles Hotel is not spared. Not long after
the death of Arshak Sarkies, the last of the four brothers, the business
of Sarkies Brothers, Proprietors, which includes both Raffles Hotel and
the E&O in Penang, goes into receivership.
1933
The Hotel's financial matters are sorted out and a new public company
called Raffles Hotel Ltd is formed. A Swiss, Teddy Troller, takes up the
position of General Manager. Raffles' main rival, the Hotel de L'Europe,
closes its doors for good.
1941
World War II engulfs Singapore. Japan bombs Singapore and sinks the
Royal Navy's Prince of Wales and Repulse off the coast of Malaya.
British families who make their way down the Malaya Peninsula with
the Japanese in pursuit congregate at Raffles Hotel.
1942
Singapore surrenders to Japan as British colonials gather at Raffles
Hotel to dance and sing "There Will Always Be An England".
1945
Japan surrenders to Allied Forces and Admiral Lord Louis Mountbatten
accepts the return of Singapore to British control. Raffles Hotel
becomes a temporary transit camp for war prisoners released under the
military administration - and is a shadow of its former self.
1953
The Elizabethan Grill opens to commemorate the coronation of Queen
Elizabeth II. The 1950s sees Ava Gardener and Elizabeth Taylor among
the famous visiting the Hotel.
1963
Singapore, Malaya, Sabah and Sarawak form the Federation of
Malaysia.
1965
Singapore leaves the federation to become a sovereign and independent
nation.
1967
Pretty Polly, starring Trevor Howard and Hayley Mills, is filmed at
Raffles Hotel.
1986
Raffles Hotel celebrates its centenary a year early to coincide with the
Year of the Tiger. A live tiger is photographed on the first day of the
year - on top of the Hotel's billiard table.
A BRIEF CHRONOLOGY OF HISTORIC RAFFLES HOTEL
Page 4/-
1987
The Singapore government designates Raffles Hotel a National
Monument.
1989
In March, the Hotel closes to enable a complete restoration. The
multi-million dollar project will return Raffles to its elegant look of the
1920s and ensure its status as one of the world's Grand Hotels.
1991
On September 16th the restored Hotel reopens its doors to the public,
looking much as it did in 1915 when in its elegant heyday.
CANADA
RAFFLES HOTEL
RAFFLES HOTEL RESTORATION & REDEVELOPMENT
NORTH BRIDGE ROAD
SEAH STREET
EMPIRE CAFE
DELI
X
X
X
AH TENG'S BAKERY
BIIIIII
!!!!!!!!!
RAFFLES COURTYARD
IIIIIIII
XX
INFORMATION
III
FERN
COURT
BRAS BASAH ROAD
THE LAWN
CARPARK
IIIIIIIII
X
SEAH STREET
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
MAIN KITCHEN
EAST INDIA
ROOMS
TIFFIN
RAFFLES
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GRILL
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IIIIIII
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SUITES
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FUNCTION/BANQUET AREAS
SHOPS
LANDSCAPED AREAS
REST ROOMS
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STOREY 3
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SINGAPORE
RAFFLES HOTEL, 1 BEACH ROAD, SINGAPORE 0718, TEL: 337-1886, TLX: RS 39028 RHSIN, FAX: 339-7650
RH9-91 RH9-91/3000 /3000
background
notes
Singapore
United States Department of State
May 1990
Bureau of Public Affairs
EXECUTIVE OFFICE
OF PRESIDENT
JUN
1990
LIBRARY
DEPOSITORY #1015
Indians 7%, others 2%. Religions: Bud-
Natural resources: None.
dhist, Taoist, Muslim, Hindu, Christian.
Agriculture (0.4% of real GDP):
South
Languages: English, Mandarin and other
Products-poultry, orchids, vegetables,
China Sea
Chinese dialects, Malay, Tamil. Education:
fruits.
Years compulsory-none. Attendance-
Industry (17% of real GNP): Types-
94%. Literacy-87.1%. Health: Infant
petroleum products, electrical and electronic
BRUNE'
mortality rate-7.4/1,000. Life expec-
products, shipbuilding and ship repair, food
MALAYSI
tancy-71 yrs. male, 76 yrs. female. Work
and beverages, textiles and garments,
SINGAPORE
force (1.3 million): Agriculture-1.1%.
chemical products.
Industry and commerce-58.1%. Serv-
Trade (1988, excluding Indonesian
ices-33%. Government-8.1%.
trade, which is not reported by Singaporean
INDONESIA
Indian
authorities): Exports-$39 billion: petro-
Ocean
leum products, electronics equipment,
Government
electrical and nonelectrical machinery, tele-
communications apparatus, garments.
Type: Parliamentary democracy.
Major markets-US, Malaysia, Japan, Eu-
Constitution: 1965. Independence:
ropean Community (EC). Imports-$44
August 9, 1965.
billion: crude oil, machinery, manufactured
Official Name:
Branches: Executive-president
goods, foodstuffs. Major suppliers-US,
Republic of Singapore
(chief of state, 4-yr. term); prime minister
EC, Malaysia, Japan.
(head of government). Legislative-
Official exchange rate (avg. 1988):
unicameral 81-member parliament (maxi-
Singapore $2.01=US$1.
mum 5-yr. term). Judicial-High Court,
PROFILE
Fiscal year: April 1-March 31.
Court of Appeal, Court of Criminal Appeal.
Political parties: People's Action
Geography
Party (PAP), various opposition parties.
Membership in
Suffrage: Universal and compulsory.
Area: 620 sq. km. (239 sq. mi.). Cities:
International Organizations
Central government budget (1986):
Capital-Singapore (country is a city-
$10 billion.
UN and some of its specialized and related
state). Terrain: Lowland. Climate:
Defense (1988): 5% of gross domestic
agencies, Commonwealth, Association of
Tropical.
product.
South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), Five
National holiday: August 9.
Power Defense Arrangement, Asian
People
Flag: Two equal horizontal sections,
Development Bank (ADB), Colombo Plan,
red over white, with a white crescent and
INTELSAT, Nonaligned Movement, Group
Nationality: Noun and adjective-
five stars in the upper left corner.
of 77.
Singaporean(s). Population (1988): 2.6
million. Annual growth rate: 1.3%.
Ethnic groups: Chinese 76%, Malays 15%,
Economy
GDP (1988): $23.9 billion. Annual growth
rate (1988-in real terms): 11%. Per capita
income: $8,782. Avg. inflation rate (1988):
1.5%.
GEOGRAPHY
Singapore is located in Southeast Asia
at the southern tip of the Malay
Peninsula and is separated from
Malaysia by the Strait of Johore, which
is traversed by a 1.2-kilometer (3/4-mi.)
causeway carrying a road and a
railway. The Singapore Strait sepa-
rates the country from Indonesia.
Singapore is a focal point for Southeast
Asian sea routes. Its total land area
includes one large island and about 55
nearby islets. The diamond-shaped
main island is 41 kilometers (26 mi.) at
its broadest from east to west, and 22
kilometers (14 mi.) from north to south.
Much of Singapore is lowland and
originally consisted of swamp and
jungle. Now mainly urban and indus-
trialized, its geographical features are
small in scale-the highest point on the
main island, Bukit Timah (Hill of Tin),
is only 177 meters (581 ft.) above sea
level; the longest river is 14 kilometers
(9 mi.) long. A central plateau of about
31 square kilometers (12 sq. mi.)
contains a water catchment area and
nature preserve. The main urban area
lies on the southern part of the island,
primarily on land reclaimed from
swamp and sea.
Singapore's climate is character-
ized by warm temperatures, high
humidity, and copious rainfall. Virtu-
ally no seasonal temperature variation
exists. The average maximum tem-
perature is 31 °C (88 °F); the average
rainfall is 158 centimeters (62 in.).
Singapore has no pronounced wet or
dry seasons.
PEOPLE
Singapore's modern skyline.
With a population density of 4,231
persons per square kilometer (10,961
per sq. mi.), Singapore is one of the
English, and Tamil also are official
most densely populated countries in
languages. English is widely used in
technic. The practical engineering-
professions, businesses, and schools.
oriented Nanyang Technological
the world. The annual growth rate has
fallen, however, from 2.5% in 1965 to
The government mandated that
Institute, founded in 1981, now has
English would be the primary language
3,940 students. The overall literacy
1.3% in 1988. Health standards are
high for the region, with about 1
used at all levels of the school systems
rate is 87% and is more than 90% for
physician for every 837 people (US has
by 1987, and aims to provide at least 10
Singaporeans under 35.
about 1 to 700).
years of education for every child.
Singapore has religious freedom.
Primary and secondary school students
Almost all Malays are Muslim; other
Singapore has a varied linguistic,
total almost 470,000, or nearly 18% of
Singaporeans are Hindus, Sikhs,
cultural, and religious heritage. Malay
the entire population. Enrollment at
Taoists, Buddhists, Confucianists, and
is the national language, but Chinese,
Christians.
the National University of Singapore is
14,972 and 13,753 at Singapore Poly-
3
second largest in the world in terms of
parliament after any general election in
annual tonnage.
which less than three opposition
In 1921, the British constructed a
candidates are elected. Nonconstituent
naval base, which was soon supple-
members may debate but may not vote
mented by an air base. The Japanese
on constitutional amendments or on
captured the island in February 1942,
bills requiring the expenditure of
however, and it remained under their
funds. After the last general election
control until September 1945, when it
(September 1988), two members were
was recaptured by the British.
named, one of whom subsequently was
In 1946, Penang and Malacca were
disqualified. The maximum term of
united in a single British Crown Colony
any one parliament is 5 years. Voting
called the Federation of Malaya;
has been compulsory since 1959.
Singapore remained a separate colony.
Judicial power is vested in the
In 1959, Singapore became self-
High Court and Court of Appeal. The
governing, and, in 1963, it joined the
High Court exercises original criminal
now-independent Federation of
and civil jurisdiction in serious cases as
Malaya, Sabah, and Sarawak (the latter
well as appellate jurisdiction from
two former British Borneo territories)
subordinate courts. Its chief justice,
to form Malaysia.
senior judge, and six judges are
Indonesia adopted a policy of
appointed by the president. Appeals
"confrontation" against the new
from the High Court are heard by the
federation, charging that it was a
Court of Appeal. Further appeal can
"British colonial creation," and severed
be made in certain cases to the Judicial
trade with Malaysia. The move
Committee of the Privy Council at
A blacksmith for 45 years.
particularly affected Singapore, since
London.
Indonesia had been the island's second
largest trading partner. The political
HISTORY
dispute was resolved in 1966, and
Principal Government Officials
Indonesia resumed trade with Sin-
President-WEE Kim Wee
Although Singapore's history dates
gapore.
Prime Minister-LEE Kuan Yew
from the 11th century, little was known
After a period of friction between
First Deputy Prime Minister-GOH
about the island until the 19th century,
Singapore and the central government
Chok Tong
when in 1819, Sir Thomas Stamford
in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore separated
Second Deputy Prime Minister-ONG
Raffles arrived as an agent of the
from Malaysia on August 9, 1965, and
Teng Cheong
British East India Company. In 1824,
became an independent republic.
the British purchased Singapore
Ministers
Island, and by 1825, the city of Sin-
Communications and Information-
gapore had become a major port, with
GOVERNMENT
YEO Ning Hong
trade exceeding that of Malaya's
Community Development-WONG
Malacca and Penang combined. In
According to the constitution, as
Kan Seng
1830, Singapore, Penang, and Malacca
amended in 1965, Singapore is a
Defense-GOH Chok Tong
were combined as the Straits Settle-
republic with a parliamentary system
Education-Tony TAN
ments to form an outlying residency of
of government. The president, the
Environment-Ahmad MATTAR
the British East India Company; in
ceremonial chief of state, is elected
Finance-Richard HU Tsu Tau
1867, the Straits Settlements were
every 4 years by parliament. Political
Foreign Affairs-WONG Kan Seng
made a British Crown Colony, an
authority rests with the prime minister
Health (Acting)-YEO Cheow Tong
arrangement that continued until 1946.
and the cabinet. The prime minister is
Home Affairs-S. JAYAKUMAR
The opening of the Suez Canal in
the leader of the political party or
Labor-LEEYock San
1869 and the advent of steamships
coalition of parties having the majority
Law-S. JAYAKUMAR
launched an era of prosperity for
of seats in parliament.
National Development-S. DHANA-
Singapore as transit trade expanded
The unicameral parliament
BALAN
throughout Southeast Asia. In the
consists of 81 members (80 of whom are
Trade and Industry-LEE Hsien
20th century, the automobile industry's
from the governing People's Action
Loong
demand for rubber from Southeast
Party-PAP) elected on the basis of
Ambassador to the United Nations—
Asia and the packaging industry's need
universal adult suffrage. Up to 3
CHAN Heng Chee
for tin helped make Singapore one of
opposition candidates are invited to
Ambassador to the United States-
the world's major ports. It is now
become nonconstituent members of
Tommy KoH Thong Bee
4
Singapore maintains an embassy
the economy steadily recovered and
related industries worldwide, a
in the United States at 1824 R
registered an impressive 11% GDP
shakeout in the US electronics market,
Street NW., Washington, D.C. 20009
growth rate in 1988. The 1988 per
and worsening economic conditions in
(tel. 202-667-7555).
capita income, $8,782, is the third
Malaysia and Indonesia. The net result
highest in Asia after Japan and Brunei.
was Singapore's first recession after 21
At the end of 1988, official foreign
POLITICAL CONDITIONS
years of sustained growth. Real GDP
exchange reserves stood at $16.6
growth plummeted to -1.6% in 1985,
billion.
The ruling political party in Singapore
began to show the first signs of
(in power since 1959) is the People's
Singapore began as an entrepot
recovery in mid-1986, and has been
Action Party (PAP), headed by Prime
(warehousing and transshipment)
remarkably buoyant since.
Minister Lee Kuan Yew. In the 1963
center for the region but began to
Singapore continues to upgrade
industrialize and modernize its infra-
general elections, the PAP won 37 of
worker skills and to search for new
the 51 seats in parliament. In October
structure after independence. The
products and markets to drive its
1966, the opposition Barisan Sosialis
marine and oil services and processing
export-led economy. One major effort
Party (Socialist Front), a left-wing
industries were among the leaders in
is to become a complete business
group that split off from the PAP in
the important manufacturing sector.
center, offering multinationals a
1961, resigned from parliament, leaving
The late 1970s and early 1980s brought
manufacturing base, a developed
the PAP as the sole representative
an increasing emphasis on high tech-
financial infrastructure, and excellent
party. In the April 1968 general
nology high-value-added goods and
communications to service regional and
elections, the PAP won all 58 seats-51
services, which made Singapore an
world markets.
without opposition.
electronics and regional banking
In the general elections of 1972,
center. Government policy, aimed at
1976, and 1980, the PAP won all of the
providing modern housing for most of
Trade
seats in an expanding parliament. In
the population by 1990, spurred public
In the past, about two-thirds of Sin-
an October 1981 by-election, the PAP
and private building, creating a
gapore's imports and exports consisted
lost a seat to the Workers' Party
construction and property boom in the
of entrepot trade. With rapid industri-
Secretary General J.B. Jeyaretnam,
early 1980s.
alization, however, the relative impor-
the first time an oppositon party had
However, by 1984, the govern-
tance of this sector has declined. The
ment's accelerated construction
won a seat since 1963.
trade pattern reflects a shift toward
In the 1984 elections, the PAP
program was nearly concluded, and
importing capital goods and raw
polled 62.9% of the popular vote, a 12%
there was a massive oversupply of new
materials for industry and exporting
drop from 1980 returns, and lost a
buildings. Property values tumbled.
locally manufactured products.
At the same time, there was a near-
second seat. In 1988, the PAP polled
In 1988, the United States was
61.9% of the popular vote to win 80 of
collapse of marine and petroleum-
Singapore's largest trading partner.
81 seats.
Following the 1988 elections,
Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew indi-
cated that in 1990 he would retire as
head of government but not from
RAHMATH TRADING CORPORATION
politics. First Deputy Prime Minister
DEALERS CARPETS ETC
22 24
SINGAPORE
Goh Chok Tong has been designated to
assume the office of prime minister as
part of a transition process to a new
generation of political leaders.
ECONOMY
Singapore's strategic location and
industrious population have given the
country an economic importance in
Southeast Asia out of proportion to its
small size. Following independence, its
economy expanded rapidly. Average
annual growth in gross domestic
product (GDP) during the 1970s was
close to 10%, and for 1980-84 it was
8.5%. Following a recession in 1985-86,
5
Major exports to the United States
with Singapore but provides no other
consisted of crude rubber, electronic
tion policy. The Development Bank of
bilateral aid.
Singapore was responsible for indus-
equipment, electrical machinery, and
textile products; major imports from
trial financing. The Jurong Town
the United States were machinery and
Industry
Corporation was charged with develop-
other manufactured products.
ing industrial estates. Its major
The government's development policy
achievement, the Jurong Industrial
from independence has emphasized
Estate, is a government-planned
US Investment and Assistance
industrialization. Separation from
satellite community devoted to manu-
Malaysia removed any semblance of a
The United States is the largest source
facturing, which had more than 1,400
large domestic market, leading
of foreign investment in Singapore,
factories in production in the early
naturally to emphasis on manufactur-
1980s and many others in various
with more than one-third of all private
ing for export. To support this policy,
foreign investment and a quarter of
stages of completion. The govern-
the government introduced new and
total investment. US private invest-
ment's Economic Development Board
remarkably successful financial incen-
ment played a leading role in Sin-
has organized a massive program to
tives for export-oriented industry and
promote foreign investment in Sin-
gapore's rapid economic expansion,
provided efficient infrastructure for
particularly in general manufacturing,
gapore and has set up a network of
manufacturing. Singapore opened its
electronics, and in modernizing re-
offices in Europe, Japan, and the
economy and has pursued a vigorous
gional distribution facilities. US
United States (in New York, Los
free-trade policy ever since. Labor
activities also include oil refining,
Angeles, Boston, Chicago, and
legislation enacted in 1968 reduced
Houston).
shipping, banking, hotels, insurance,
labor unrest and gave employers more
These efforts resulted in a dra-
and importing and exporting. The
flexibility in hiring and firing. By the
resident US business community,
matic increase in the level of foreign
early 1980s, Singapore had become a
and local investment. From 1962 to
including dependents, was estimated at
relatively high wage locale by Asian
about 5,000 in late 1988. Total US
1974, the manufacturing sector grew an
standards, but the government moved
investment in Singapore at the end of
average of 20% per year and registered
in 1985 to restrain wage increases and
1988 stood at $3 billion, with invest-
an annual average increase of more
reduce other costs with a view to
ment flows continuing at a brisk pace.
than 10% through 1981. After a pause
making Singapore more competitive.
The United States has a small
in 1982, growth resumed in 1983.
Several institutions played a key
military training assistance program
Manufacturing increased as a percent-
role in carrying out the industrializa-
age of total economic activity from 17%
in 1960 to 29% in 1988. Extensive
petroleum refining operations make
that industry-in terms of total value
of production-the largest in Sin-
gapore. It is closely followed by
electronics, transportation equipment
and marine services-including ship
repair-textiles, electrical machinery,
and food industries. The manufactur-
ing sector contracted because of the
recession, but the prospects for high-
tech manufacturing are still bright.
Construction was the cutting edge
of the economy in the early 1980s,
providing as much as 30% of total
growth. Although the frenzied pace of
construction in that period left a
massive surplus of offices, hotels, and
warehouses, the program also resulted
in modern housing for most Singapore-
ans and an up-to-date system of ports,
20000
airports, and roads. Construction of a
66.8-kilometer (41.5-mi.) rapid transit
system is underway. The first stage
was completed in December 1987.
6
Agriculture
Singapore's limited agrarian land is
Further.Information
devoted primarily to intensive cultiva-
tion of vegetables, some poultry and
pork, and other food crops. Although
These titles are provided as a general indication of material published on this country.
rice is a dietary staple, it is not grown
The Department of State does not endorse unofficial publications.
domestically. All the island's other
Bedlington, Stanley S. Malaysia and
food requirements are imported.
and Future. Singapore: Eastern Uni-
Singapore: The Building of New
versities Press, 1979.
Singapore is a major exporter of
States. Ithaca: Cornell University
Lim, Chong Yah. Policy Options for the
orchids and tropical fish.
Press, 1978.
Singapore Economy. Singapore:
Bloodworth, Dennis. The Tiger and the
McGraw-Hill Book Co., 1988
Trojan Horse. Singapore: Times
Nair, C. Devan, ed. Socialism That
Labor
Books International, 1986.
Works. The Singapore Way.
Singapore has a work force of about 1.3
Chan Heng Chee. The Dynamics of One
Singapore: Federal Publications,
Party Dominance: The PAP at the
1976.
million. The National Trades Union
Grass Roots. Singapore: Singapore
Singapore Year Book. Singapore:
Congress, the sole trade union federa-
University Press, 1976.
Government Publications Bureau.
tion, has 209,000 members or about
George, T.J.S. Lee Kuan Yew's Sin-
98% of total organized labor. Exten-
gapore. Great Britain: Andre Deutsh
Available from the Superintendent of
sive legislation covers general labor
Limited, 1978.
Documents, US Government Printing
Goh Keng Swee. The Practice of
Office, Washington, DC 20402:
and trade union matters. The Indus-
trial Arbitration Court handles labor-
Economic Growth. Singapore:
American University. Area Handbook for
Federal Publications, 1977.
Singapore. 1977.
management disputes. In recent years,
Hassan, Riaz, ed. Singapore: Society in
US Department of Commerce. Foreign
few incidents have occurred to ruffle
Transition. Kuala Lumpur: Oxford
Economic Trends-Singapore.
the generally harmonious state of
University Press, 1976.
International Marketing Information
labor-management relations.
Josey, Alex. Singapore: Its Past, Present
Series: Semiannual.
Singapore enjoyed virtually full
employment in the early 1980s with an
unemployment rate of only 3%. The
1985 recession drove the jobless figure
government-owned and operated.
3,500 navy, and 6,000 air force person-
to more than 6% in mid-1986, but with
Privately owned daily newspapers are
nel. Reserve forces total about
the recovery, it dropped back to 3.3%
published in English, Chinese, and
200,000. Singapore is a member of the
in mid-1988. Spot labor shortages
Malay.
Five Power Defense Arrangement—
persist, however, in some growth
United Kingdom, Australia, New
areas, such as electronics and in
Zealand, and Malaysia. Designed to
industries, such as construction, where
FOREIGN RELATIONS
replace the former defense role of the
foreign workers predominate.
Singapore is nonaligned and seeks
British in the Singapore-Malaysia area,
cordial relations with all nations. As a
the arrangement obligates members to
consult in the event of external threat
Transportation and Communications
small country heavily dependent on
Situated at the crossroads of interna-
world trade, it has a special interest in
and provides for stationing Common-
maintaining wide international con-
wealth forces in Singapore.
tional shipping and air routes, Sin-
tacts. It is a member of the Common-
gapore is a center for transportation
wealth and also the United Nations and
and communication in Southeast Asia.
US-SINGAPORE RELATIONS
several of its specialized and related
The world's second most active port
(after Rotterdam), Singapore handled
agencies. Singapore supports the
The United States has maintained
153 million tons of cargo in 1988.
concept of Southeast Asian regionalism
formal diplomatic relations with
and plays an active role in the Associa-
Singapore is a regional aviation hub
Singapore since that country became
served by 50 international airlines.
tion of South East Asian Nations,
independent in 1965. Singapore's
founded in 1967.
Changi International Airport, opened
efforts to maintain economic growth
in 1980, is being expanded. The
and political stability and its support
country also is linked by road and rail
for regional cooperation harmonize
DEFENSE
to Malaysia and Thailand.
with US policy in the region and form a
Telecommunications and telephone
solid basis for amicable relations
Singapore relies primarily on its own
facilities are modern and comprehen-
between the two countries. The
defense forces, which are continuously
sive, providing high-quality communi-
being modernized. The Singapore
growth of US investment in Singapore
cations with the rest of the world.
armed forces comprises 50,000 army,
and the large number of Americans
Radio and television stations are
living there enhance opportunities for
contact between Singapore and the
7
Singapore and the United States.
The East-West Center and private
Administrative Counselor-Robert B.
Many Singaporeans visit and study in
American organizations, such as the
Courtney
the United States.
Asia and Ford Foundations, also
Defense Attache-Capt. Patrick
The US Government sponsors
sponsor exchanges involving Sin-
Cooper, USN
visitors from Singapore each year
gaporeans.
The US Embassy in Singapore is
under the International Visitor Pro-
Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew has
located at 30 Hill Street, Singapore
gram. The US Government provides
visited the United States several
0617 (tel. 338-0251).
Fulbright awards to enable selected
times. He last official visit was in April
American professors to teach or
1988.
conduct research at the National
Published by the United States Department
University of Singapore and the
of State Bureau of Public Affairs Office
Principal U.S. Officials
Institute of Southeast Asian Studies.
of Public Communication
Washington, DC
It awards scholarships to outstanding
Ambassador-Robert Orr
May 1990
Editor: Juanita Adams
Singaporean students for graduate
Deputy Chief of Mission-Arthur
Department of State Publication 8240
studies at American universities and to
Kobler
Background Notes Series
This material is
American students to study in Sin-
Economic/Political Counselor-Thomas
in the public domain and may be reprinted
gapore. The US Government also
H. Martin
without permission; citation of this source
sponsors occasional cultural presenta-
Political Officer-Edward Dong
is appreciated.
tions in Singapore.
Economic Officer-J. Anthony Holmes
Public Affairs Counselor-Richard
For sale by the Superintendent of Docu-
ments, US Government Printing Office,
Gong
Washington, DC 20402.
Commercial Counselor-George
Ruffner
SINGAPORE
From Malay Proverbs, by Sir Richard Winstedt and Dr. Tan Chin
Kwanq:
*
Malay: "Kalau sepohon kayu banyak akarnya lagi teghu, apa
ditakutkan ribut?"
English translation: If a tree has roots many and firm, there
is no need to fear the tempest.
Meaning: He who has many friends ready to help need not fear
threats.
Confucian Sayings:
The master said,
'Have no friends not equal to yourself.'
The master said
'To be fond of learning is to be near to
knowledge. To practice with vigor is to be near to
magnanimity. To possess the feeling of shame is to be near
to energy. He who knows these three things, knows how to
cultivate his own character. Knowing how to cultivate his own
character, he knows how to govern other men. Knowing how to
govern other men, he knows how to govern the kingdom the
kingdom with all its states and families.
"Wisdom, compassion and courage -- these are the three universally
recognized moral qualities of men.
Encyclopedia Americana
Singapore is the smallest nation in Southeast Asia (an island city-
state)
Singapore was founded in 1819 by a British trading company, and
came under direct British rule in 1867. Free trade and, until
1930, unrestricted immigration made it a prosperous colony with a
largely Chinese population. Singapore was also Britain's most
strongly fortified naval base in Asia, but it fell helplessly to
a rearward attack by the Japanese army in WWII.
Trade, together with services such as shipping, storage, banking,
insurance, and telecommunications have given Singaporeans the
reputation of being the most highly skilled middlemen of Asia.
When Singapore became self-governing in 1959, its leaders
recognized that the commercial sector alone could not sustain the
island's economic growth in the face of rapid population increase
and accelerated competition from neighboring countries.
The main production categories are oil refining, shipbuilding and
repair, electrical and electronic equipment, non-electrical
machinery, chemicals, foods and beverages, and printing and
publishing.
Singapore ranks among the world's busiest seaports.
Singapore's chief trading partners are the US, Japan, Malaysia, the
European Economic Community, and (for oil) the Middle East.
Singapore's modern history begins with an Englishman, Sir Thomas
Stamford Raffles. In 1819, Raffles acquired the island from the
Malay Sultan of Johor on behalf of the British East India Company.
With extraordinary foresight, he laid the foundations for a great
modern city, envisaging the transformation of a tiny fishing
village into a free-trade emporium that would have global
importance.
National Anthem
Let us, the people of Singapore, together march forward towards
happiness. Our noble aspiration is to see Singapore achieve
success. Let us unite in a new spirit. We all pray: "May
Singapore Progress", "May Singapore Progress."
US and Asia Statistical Handbook, 1990
Unemployment rate 2.0%
Land Area: 239 square miles
Cultivated Land Area: 9%
Resources: none
Major agricultural product: hogs, poultry, orchids, vegetables
Major imports: capital equipment, manufactured goods, transport
equipment, consumer goods.
Major exports: machinery, manufactured goods, transport equipment,
refined petroleum, rubber, electronics.
GDP: 1989 -- 24 billion US dollars
1989 Singaporean Direct Investment in the US: US$ 1,216,000,000
Cable re: trip
-- The first American Consul in Singapore came to this area in
1834. He was Joseph Balestier. He was accompanied by his spouse
Maria Revere Balestier, daughter of Paul Revere. He officially
became consul in 1837.
-- The Balestiers are remembered here by a bell cast in the Revere
works in Boston, which was presented to the original church of St.
Andrew by Maria revere Balestier. As you know, that bell is now
in Singapore's National Museum.
Rafles
RAFFLES HOTEL
mmm
SINGAPORE
16/90/600 RH
The illustrations contained in this
brochure are reproduced from an original
Raffles Hotel booklet printed in 1905.
They show the turn-of-the-century
Let the Traveller take Note
grandeur and ambience of the Hotel
which is recaptured in the restored Hotel.
FEED AT
RAFFLES
The booklet is part of the Raffles Hotel
when visiting
Collection of historical memorabilia which
SINGAPORE"
Rudyard Kipling.
is displayed in the Raffles Hotel Museum.
RAFFLES
REVISITED
Raffles, a traditional colonial
garden featuring Frangipani
ACC
©
trees, Bougainvillea and a Lily
pond.
R
affles, the legendary
personality of the most
exotic hotel in the East is reborn,
supported by the qualities
expected of the finest establish-
ments to be found anywhere in
the world today.
2
6
DL
The visionary founders of Raffles Hotel:
(clockwise from left) Arshak Sarkies,
Aviet Sarkies and Tigran Sarkies.
affles Hotel has stood as
R
a legendary symbol of
Singapore and 'for all the fables
of the exotic East', , since its
establishment in 1887.
The Hotel is named after
Sir Stamford Raffles, who
The original Raffles Hotel rooms each consisted of a sittingroom
and a bed and dressingroom with attached bathroom.
founded modern Singapore
in 1819.
In multi-cultural Singa-
pore, it seems hardly surprising
that the visionary founders
of Raffles Hotel were neither
British nor Chinese, but Arme-
nians from the Middle East: the
Sarkies brothers.
From humble begin-
bars, the Raffles Hotel Museum
and 70 specialty shops and
exclusive boutiques.
Extended landscaped gar-
dens surround the Hotel, pre-
serving the lush tropical feel
MONSIEUR T. SARKIES
which has always typified Raffles.
AFFLES
he world-famous Palm
T
Court recaptures a sim-
ARCH
BY
ple and serene atmosphere for
A.DIETZ
Hotel guests and provides a
perfect visual contrast to Raffles
OFFICIER DV MEDJIDIE
MEDAILLE DE BEAUX ARTS -
/
Grill. There is also the Palm
EDITION TIDIS
Garden, adjacent to the Bar &
Billiard Room, and The Lawn at
Raffles March was the
hotel's signature tune, commissioned by
Tigran Sarkies in 1903.
nings in an old bungalow,
the Hotel grew to become one
of the world's most renowned
grand hotels.
In the 1920s and '30s,
the Hotel was a mecca for
celebrities such as Charlie
The idyllic Palm Court where world-renowned
Chaplin and Douglas Fair-
writers penned their books.
banks, for writers like Somerset
Maugham and Noel Coward,
and for kings, sultans and
politicians.
t was also the centre of
I
Singapore's colonial high-
life - tea-dances, the high-
stepping Charleston, and jazz
bands.
to seadogs, adventurers and
travellers from all over the world.
Raffles' 1890s billiard table
takes pride of place, along with
many other original furnishings.
T
he adjoining land parcel
developed in architec-
R.A.J. Bidwell designed the imposing neo-classical building
tural harmony with the Grand
which was completed in 1899.
Old Lady, is known simply
as "Raffles" and provides a
broader range of facilities
for visitors to enjoy its atmo-
sphere. The Jubilee Hall Theatre
Playhouse is the venue for his-
torical presentations and multi-
media shows. Raffles also houses
six distinctive restaurants and
Through a century and
more, Raffles has shared in the
fortunes - - and misfortunes -
of the nation. It was the last
rallying point for colonial
Singapore in the face of the
Japanese occupation of 1942;
MOTEL
SERVICE
Rickshaw men competed for the right
to operate the lucrative Raffles pitch.
and the first place of refuge in
1945 for the prisoners of war
released from concentration
camps.
F
rom independence, in
1965, Singapore put all
its forces behind building a
nation that is today respected
as one of the great economic
miracles of the twentieth
T
he Tiffin Room, adja-
cent to the lobby, con-
tinues to be the traditional
C
main dining area. The formal
dining room, Raffles Grill,
the Hotel's premier restaurant,
provides a clear view through to
the Palm Court garden, while
MAIN BUILDING.
The neo-classical main building
faces Beach Road and the South China Sea.
the Writers' Bar continues to
celebrate the special place
writers have always held in
Raffles' heart.
The Bar & Billiard Room
which dates back to the mid-
3
1890s recalls the rollicking late
nineteenth century era when
the Singapore port played host
century.
It was not until the early
eighties, however, that the
newly affluent Republic turned
its thoughts to heritage con-
servation, declaring Raffles a
protected monument in 1987.
DINING HALL
No other hotel in the East could boast finer dining, from a simple
midday tiffin, to elegant continental fare after dark.
OW restored to the full
N
glory of her pre-World
War II past, Raffles Hotel is ready
to meet its second century.
Featuring the style to
which it was once accustomed,
Raffles Hotel reopens with 104
suites revealing the original
14-foot moulded ceilings, grand
arches, tiled, teak and marble
Docon
0000
floorings. Ceiling fans, oriental
carpets and period furnishings
are skilfully combined with all
the amenities of a grand hotel.
T
he guiding principle
for the architects and
designers was to restore the
Hotel as it was in the period from
1910 to 1930.
The facade of the Main
Building is fully restored, com-
plete with the elegant cast-iron
portico that graced the Hotel
FRONT
from 1910 to 1920. The splendid
000000
VERANDAH
verandah which encircled the
entire Hotel facade on the upper
Richly decorated verandahs
caught cooling breezes on all
four sides of the hotel.
storeys has also been restored.