Singapore

Letter from William Farquhar to Sultan Muhammad Kanzul Alam, the Sultan of Brunei, dated 28 November 1819

Part of Singapore Island (British Library India Office Records, 1825, detail).jpg

Singapore 1865 SLNSW FL15083916

Evacuation of British POWs, Kallang Airport, Singapore - 19450908

SingaporeRiver-bumboats-196009.jpg

Southeast Asian city-state

Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is a sovereign city-state and island country in Southeast Asia. It lies about one degree of latitude (137 kilometers or 85 miles) north of the equator, off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, bordering the Straits of Malacca to the west, the Riau Islands to the south, and the South China Sea to the east. The country's territory consists of one main island along with 63 other satellite islands and islets. The combined area of these islands has increased by 25% since the country's independence as a result of extensive land reclamation projects.

History

The earliest known mention of Singapore was a 3rd-century Chinese account describing the island as Pu Luo Chung, which means "island at the end of a peninsula". In the 14th century, the island was referred to as Temasek (Sea Town) and later Singapura (Lion City) by Sang Nila Utama, a Srivijaya prince from Palembang. In 1819, Sir Stamford Raffles established a British trading post on the island, which became part of the Straits Settlements in 1826. During World War II, Singapore was occupied by Japanese forces from 1942 to 1945. After the war, Singapore reverted to British control, and in 1959, it became a self-governing state within the Commonwealth. Singapore gained full independence from Malaysia on 9 August 1965.

Government and Politics

Singapore is a parliamentary republic with a Westminster system of unicameral parliamentary government representing constituencies. The President of Singapore is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The Parliament of Singapore is the legislative branch, and the Supreme Court of Singapore is the highest judicial authority.

Economy

Singapore has a highly developed free-market economy that is heavily dependent on trade. The country is a global hub for finance, logistics, and manufacturing. It has one of the highest GDP per capita in the world and is known for its business-friendly environment, with low taxes and minimal corruption.

Demographics

Singapore is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The population is highly diverse, with the majority being of Chinese, Malay, and Indian descent. The country has four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Tamil. English is the lingua franca and the language of business and government.

Culture

Singapore's culture is a blend of Asian and European influences. The country is known for its multiculturalism, with various ethnic communities maintaining their unique traditions and festivals. Singaporean cuisine is a significant aspect of the country's cultural heritage, featuring a mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western dishes.

Education

Singapore has a highly developed education system that is known for its high standards and rigorous curriculum. The country has a bilingual education policy, with English as the main language of instruction and a second language that is typically the student's mother tongue.

Healthcare

Singapore has a universal healthcare system that is funded through a combination of government subsidies, compulsory savings, and private insurance. The country is known for its high-quality healthcare services and advanced medical facilities.

Transport

Singapore has a highly efficient and extensive public transport system, including MRT trains, buses, and taxis. The country is also a major international transport hub, with Singapore Changi Airport being one of the busiest airports in the world.

See also

• Geography of Singapore
• History of Singapore
• Economy of Singapore
• Culture of Singapore
• Education in Singapore
• Healthcare in Singapore
• Transport in Singapore