Singapore is 50 years old! In just 50 years, this city-state has gone from swamp land to skyscrapers, and its booming economic structure has created one of the world’s wealthiest populations. In such a short time, and without having natural resources, Singapore has become a worldwide business center that has brought many expats into the region.
Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, who is credited with being an exceptional leader and driving Singapore into its current thriving state, worked with many other founders of the country such as Dr. Goh Keng Swee, the architect of Singapore’s economic miracle, and Mr. S. Rajaratnam, Singapore’s philosopher par excellence. Unfortunately, the leader that brought Singapore into this modern era, Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, died earlier this year. It was said that he “lived and breathed Singapore all his life.” In 50 years, Singapore has become known as one of the most successful societies in history by improving the living standards of its people in a faster and more comprehensive manner than many other countries. Malnutrition in the country disappeared quickly, and Singapore’s per capita income has shot from $500 to $55,000 today, the most significant increase any newly independent nation has ever enjoyed. Though some areas of Singaporean life still have a long way to go, their history and current resume are very impressive.
The country will celebrate its 50th birthday, SG50, with a Grand Jubilee event, with the theme Celebrating as One People. This event will take place on August 7-9 at the Padang, where the declaration of Singapore’s independence took place 50 years before. There will be concerts and picnics in the park in West Coast Park, Pasir Ris Park, and Sembawang Park on August 7th and on August 9th there will be a grand National Day parade, showcasing the country’s national pride.
For more examples of how far Singapore has come view Reuters photo lounge: http://widerimage.reuters.com/story/50-years-of-independence
