Singapore Flashcards
(25 cards)
How does the government promote racial harmony in Singapore?
Through policies like the Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP) in housing, the Racial Harmony Day celebration, and the Group Representation Constituency (GRC) system.
What are the four official languages of Singapore?
English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Tamil.
What is the significance of the annual National Day Parade in Singapore?
It commemorates Singapore’s independence and promotes national unity and patriotism.
What were the key policies introduced by Lee Kuan Yew to transform Singapore’s economy?
Industrialization, foreign investment attraction, strict urban planning, housing development (HDB), and education reform.
How did Lee Kuan Yew’s leadership contribute to Singapore’s stability after independence?
He focused on economic development, strict governance, anti-corruption policies, and social cohesion strategies.
How did Lee Kuan Yew shape Singapore’s approach to meritocracy?
He emphasized education and competence, ensuring that leadership and economic opportunities were based on ability rather than connections.
How did the Singaporean government attract foreign direct investment (FDI) in the 1970s?
By offering tax incentives, setting up industrial parks (e.g., Jurong Industrial Estate), and ensuring political stability.
It promoted foreign investment, developed strategic industries, and facilitated economic planning.
Economic Development Board (EDB)
What is the significance of Singapore’s strategic location in its industrial development?
It positioned Singapore as a global trade hub, benefiting from maritime and logistics industries.
What was the purpose of the “Stop at Two” policy in the 1970s?
To control population growth through incentives and disincentives for smaller families. By introducing pro-natalist policies like the Baby Bonus Scheme and increased maternity leave.
Why does Singapore rely heavily on foreign workers?
Due to a small local workforce, aging population, and the need for labor in various sectors like construction, healthcare, and finance.
What are the major challenges posed by Singapore’s aging population?
Increased healthcare costs, a shrinking workforce, and the need for pension and eldercare reforms.
How does the People’s Action Party (PAP) maintain political dominance in Singapore?
Through strong governance, media control, legal actions against opposition, and the GRC electoral system.
What measures does the government take to regulate political opposition?
Defamation lawsuits, media restrictions, bans on public demonstrations, and regulations like the Political Donations Act.
How does meritocracy function in Singapore’s governance and economy?
It rewards individuals based on talent and performance, especially in education and civil service.
What are the criticisms of Singapore’s meritocratic system?
It may lead to social inequality, elitism, and limited upward mobility for lower-income groups.
How does Singapore’s government ensure efficiency in public administration?
By recruiting top talent, paying high salaries to prevent corruption, and using technology for governance.
Who investigates and prevents corruption within government and businesses?
Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB)?
Who provides affordable homes, implements racial quotas, and ensures homeownership for the majority?
Housing and Development Board (HDB)?
Why did the British establish Singapore as a trading post in 1819?
To secure a strategic location for trade and counter Dutch influence in the region.
What were the main commodities traded in Singapore during the British colonial period?
Spices, tin, rubber, textiles, and opium.
How did Singapore’s entrepôt trade model shape its early economic growth?
It positioned Singapore as a key trade hub with minimal import-export tariffs. It served as a vital port connecting Europe, India, China, and Southeast Asia.
How did Singapore transition from a British trading post to an independent economy?
By diversifying into manufacturing, finance, and technology sectors post-independence.
What is the role of the president in Singapore’s government?
The president has a largely ceremonial role but safeguards national reserves and key public sector appointments.
