Singapore

Icons of Modern Leadership: Lee Kuan Yew of Modern Singapore vs. Adolf Hitler, a Prominent Aggressor of World War II They say history must not repeat itself especially when it involves loss of lives, destruction of property and disruption in the delivery of basic services to people including relationships. In this paper, former Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew and Fuhrer and Chancellor Adolf Hitler have been chosen as effective World Leaders whose achievements, whether good or bad, have been identified to greatly impact many lives of people around the world.

This paper is not to pass judgment on them whether they have become good or bad leaders of the past. What is being looked into is how effective these leaders have been in carrying out their goals, strategies, etc. and the lessons that must be learned. The strategies, ways and means both used to achieve their goals may have been totally poles apart or different based on their beliefs, manner of doing, choices, etc. But for one thing, both leaders dreamed of harmony, peace, unity and progress for their country.

The difference is how they executed that dream. Both leaders have left significant different memories, one of which is the unforgettable holocaust initiated by Fuhrer Adolf Hitler and a successful giant leap of economic redemption of Singapore from a Third World country to become an Asian Tiger country within the three decades of Lee Kuan Yew’s rule. Each leader delivered significant changes that deserve to be called great icons in the history of world leaders.

Adolf Hitler who was the reason for the outbreak of World War II and Lee Kuan Yew who transformed Singapore from a Third World country to another Asian Tiger country, have been chosen and juxtaposed to learn the similarities and contrasts of their qualities and styles as leaders as well as how their reigns brought impact to the world. Credited to Hitler’s achievements were as follows: “awarded the Iron Cross, First Class in December 1914 (a rare decoration for bravery in action to a corporal)” (Hitler,A. , 2011); “annexation of Austria and Sudetenland” (Chen, P. 2012); wrote the book ‘Mein Kampf’ (meaning My Struggle) where it was an anti-Semitic, anti-Communist diatribe outlining his strategy for remaking Germany and becoming a conquering power throughout Europe” (Harkavy, 1996). “By 1938 Hitler had made Germany the most powerful and feared country in Europe (and perhaps in the world)” (Hitler, A. , 2011). “Majority of the German people supported him because they saw during his early leadership to his credit how unemployment virtually disappeared, the rising prosperity of the masses, the new social institutions and the increase of German prestige in the 1930’s.

All these achievements of Hitler were unparalleled in the histories of other modern totalitarian dictatorship”(Hitler, A. 2011). On the other hand, achievements credited to Yew include: redemption of Singapore from a Third World Country to become an Asian Tiger country now aligned with other rich Asian countries like Japan, Hongkong, and Taiwan. Singapore is now an envy of many neighboring Asian countries. Of Lee Kuan Yew’s outstanding achievements, eradication of corruption was envied by many ASEAN nations because ‘Corruption’ has always long been associated with Third World Asian nations.

Other achievements include the substantial “increase in the living standards (Loh,K. 2011)” in this country: “As Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew presided over an exponential increase in Singapore’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from US$704 million in 1960 to US$38 billion in 1990. This figure currently stands at US$222 billion, or over 300 times its level in 1960. Adjusting for cost of living differences, Singapore’s GDP per capita was ranked 3rd globally by the International Monetary Fund in 2010” (Loh, K, 2011).

Evidently, everybody saw the difference of how improved Singapore is today from the 1960’s. Now Singapore will always be equated and associated with the name of Lee Kuan Yew, the father of Singapore. Analyzing closely, the nearest similarity observed from both leaders is that they both embraced the style of totalitarian dictatorship during their reigns. Other similarities noted include: both became inspiring leaders to the millions of their respective constituents.

For Hitler, his actions united majority of the Germans and Austrians although some say this holds true prior to his order of mass executions for the Jews. It was also noted that both leaders started their political careers by heading the Popular Party of their masses: Hitler became a prominent leader of National Socialist German Working Party (Nazi) while Yew also became a strong leader of Singapore’s People’s Action Party (PAP). They also had one dream, that is. to achieve “peace, harmony and unity as well as progress” not only for their country but also for the whole world.

Both have redeemed their countries from economic downturn to economic recovery and continued progress. Both have shown improvements not only on the lives of their people but also on policies, economy and evidently on the overall progress of their respective countries. “How did Adolf Hitler who, according to Professor Jeremy Noakes, was just a drifter and a failed artist, become one of the most destructive political leaders in the 20th century? ” (Noakes, 2011). Hitler did struggle during his early civilian life. When his father died, he and his mother were left with inadequate pension and savings which is the reason why he never advanced beyond his secondary education” (Hitler, A. , 2011). This may be one of the outstanding differences between the two. Yew’s household was better off than Hitler’s because Lee Kuan Yew was able “to get education at Raffles College in Singapore and Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge, England. He started as a lawyer, founded the People’s Action Party in Singapore and became the Secretary General” (Yew, 2010).

This paved the way to Yew’s political career. On the other hand, Hitler embraced the military which paved the way to his rise to power. Accordingly, “He greeted the war with enthusiasm, as a great relief from the frustration and aimlessness of his civilian life. He found discipline and comradeship satisfying and was confirmed in his belief about the heroic virtues of war. He occupied two positions during his reign, as Chancellor (Kanzler) and as Fuehrer of Germany covering 1933 to 1945” (Hitler, A. , 2011).

A distinctive difference is the leader’s belief. At the early part of his life, Hitler developed a strong discrimination for the Jews. Certain events in his life have led him to develop strong anti-Semitism or hatred for the Jews. Lee Kuan Yew embraced the teachings of Confucius. Another difference is that Hitler alone had his inherent own unique leadership style while Lee Kuan Yew’s was greatly inspired by Machiavellian virtu as he cited: “Between being loved and being feared, I have always believed Machiavelli was right.

If nobody is afraid of me, I’m meaningless (Lee Kuan Yew, 6. 10. 1997)” (Gordon, n. d. ). Comparing the two leaders on the basis of the magnitude and coverage or extent of each leader’s involvement and impact, Adolf Hitler may be considered the most effective leader because one of his greatest achievements among others is having the great majority of Germans and Austrians rally behind him until the end.

This is something that historians could not find from any predecessor who could have done or come close to what Adolf Hitler did despite being accused as the war aggressor and a tyrannical dictator killing 6 million Jews during his reign. Yet despite all these, much have been said and written about Adolf Hitler who has all the right to be an icon leader of the 20th century. For this purpose, Lee Kuan Yew is chosen to have less impact among these two most effective leaders. Lee Kuan Yew’s achievement, though only involved Singapore’s development, has also become a showcase to the world.

Finally, restating what Lee Kuan Yew imparted (not the exact words), “An effective leader is the one who can be dispensable” which means if you have left your realm or domain without anybody able to take over it, then you are not a good leader. Leading is a continuous momentum whether you are there or somebody takes the helm from you. WORKS CITED Chen, Peter C. (2012) Munich Conference and the Annexation of Sudetenland: 29 Sep 1938 – 10 Oct 1938. World War II Database [Data File]. Retrieved from http://ww2db. com/battle_spec. hp? battle_id=87 Gordon, Uri (n. d. ) . Machiavelli’s Tiger: Lee Kuan Yew and Singapore’s Authoritarian Regime. Retrieved from http://www. scribd. com/doc/38148245/Lee-Kuan-Yew Adolf Hitler. (2012) History Learning Site. Retrieved from http://www. historylearningsite. co. uk/adolf_hitler. htm Loh, Kai H. (May, 2011). Lee Kuan Yew’s Legacy. Dragons and Tigers: An East Asian Perspective. Retrieved from http://www. globalconversation. org/2011/05/15/lee-kuan-yews-legacy Noakes, Jeremy. ( 2011). The Rise of Adolf Hitler.

Retrieved from http://www. bbc. co. uk/history/worldwars/wwtwo/hitler_01. shtml Hitler, Adolf (2011). In Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved April 14, 2012, from http://www. biography. com/people/adolf-hitler-9340144 Harkavy, Michael D. ed. (1996) Adolf Hitler. The New Illustrated Home Reference Guide ( p. 499) Trident Press International, Canada: New Webster’s International Encyclopedia (print). Yew, Lee K. (2010). Distinguished Fellow: Lee Kuan Yew. Retrieved from http://www. lkyspp. nus. edu. sg/Faculty_Lee_Kuan_Yew. aspx

Introduction The image of a country or destination is vital to the growth of the nation. By using the right forms of efforts, the destination can be greatly enhanced. Countries used their forte to attract tourists to visit them. While countries with breath-taking scenes, unique cultures or wonders of the world attract their own lovers, others create their very own “scenes” which are called, events. An event is something that happens in a place and time. A successful event not only benefit in terms of profits, it also enhanced the image of the particular location.

In this paper, some successful events will be looked at, telling us how these events sculpt the image of the destination and how they have helped to enhance the image of those destinations. Anuga, Cologne, Germany During World War Two, much of the city of Cologne was destroyed, by the end of the war, only 40,000 people were still living in the city. In 1947, the city was rebuilt, keeping the face of the post-war Cologne. Cologne is also the fourth largest city in Germany and one of the most travelled destination in Europe.

Each year, Koelnmesse host more than 50 international trade fairs, attracting two million people. Amongst them are Anuga; the largest food show in the world and Cologne Carnival; known as the “fifth” season for the locals. In 2011, Anuga 2011 attracted 6596 companies from over 100 countries with a take up rate of 284,000 square meters of space. 86% of which were foreign exhibitors and over 155,000 trade visitors attended the show. Cologne had to accommodate to the influx of visitors each year. Infrastructure was built around the cultural landscape of Cologne to do just that.

It is also a one of the most important traffic hub with all high-speed trains stopping there. Accommodations were abundance to house the millions who travel to Cologne for the trade fairs and there was no lack of restaurants and shopping. However, McCannell (1973) questioned the authenticity of what are portrayed to tourists in a destination, the building of such infrastructure may affect the overall landscape of the original Cologne, which is immense in a strong cultural vibe, hence portraying a different kind of city from what it is supposed to be.

While the focus is put on international trade fairs for the city, the history had to make way for the development. Cologne has reflected some of the platforms on Jafari (1990). The advocacy platform, “the good” is the economic benefits that the industry brought, the amount of tourist money spent in the city during the event is high, the hotels benefitted during the period, translating into economic gains.

The cautionary platform, “the bad” indicates the negative impacts which the event may bring to the city in opposition, social problems such as theft becomes common and monuments could be greatly depreciated with more people. The adaptancy platform, “the how” brings out the good and reduces the bad of the industry, it focused on the host country and at the same time, satisfying the visitors. In order to do so, much of the infrastructure in Cologne builds around the monuments and not demolishing them.

In the knowledge based platform, “the why”, the importance of knowledge is the main point. Anuga, today, has become the must visit or must participate food event of the industry, the co-existing platforms of Jafari (1990) should help enhanced the image of the city. ? Beijing Olympics, China In 2008, the Olympics was held in Beijing, China. Ever since the announcement was made in 2004, China has been in preparation for the event. To do so, Beijing had planned building of stadiums, hotels, malls to house the athletes, coaches as well as audiences from around the world.

The now world-renowned “bird’s nest” stadium was built by 7000 workers and can house up to 91,000 audiences at one time. It was reported that China had made a profit of over 1 billion yuan for hosting the 2008 Olympics. These profits came from sales of broadcasting rights, souvenirs, tickets and sponsorship. Countries from around the world compete to host the Olympics to “put their country on the map” and increased the country’s international exposure or to tell the world to anticipate something big from the country, which makes sense to a large extend.

China has thus become an emerging huge market for the world, with a huge demand for imported goods as well as a strong presence in the export of China products. The event serves as a trailer to inform the world of its coming. The 2008 Olympics not only created state of the art infrastructure within oriental Beijing, but it also attracts the attention of international stake holders, boosting the image of Beijing, China. F1 Grandprix, Singapore

F1 Grandprix began way back in the early sporting days, it features some of the best race cars in the world and have created legends on the tracks. Today, the race has gone on to 19 countries in the world including Singapore. Singapore hosted the F1 Grandprix in 2008, the first ever night race. The television viewership was estimated at 350 million. While many watches the race through various media platforms, some would seek, as said by McCannell. D (1973, 1976), authentic experiences, by visiting the destination to experience the live event.

However, Boorstin (1961) would say that the visitors already expected to see what they already know will see. Although it may not make much of difference for viewers as it would just be another race in another country, which is predictable. Ritzer and Liska (1997)’s mcdonaldization would support that, tourism destination or in this case, the event, is predictable, with expensive tickets, similar race tracks, crowded places and even the racers are the same but the Singapore race is unique on its own.

By organising the F1 Grandprix in Singapore, the “Singapore Brand” would greatly benefit from it. Instead of a normal day race, which many would expect it to be, the race is done at night, which makes it the first ever F1 night race to be held in the world. It would also show the world how Singapore is capable of transforming the busy downtown roads into race tracks for the car racers, in a matter of weeks. This would in turn benefit the tourism sector in Singapore.

In an opening statement by Minister in Prime Minister’s Office, Second Minister for Home Affairs and Trade and Industry, Mr S Iswaran, it was said that F1 has helped Singapore attained a firm standing as a global city. From the economic point of view, the race has attracted more than 150,000 international visitors since its first race and approximately $140-$150 million tourism receipts each year. The race would be hosted in Singapore till 2017, in the coming years, the multiplier effect of the race would be significant. ? Conclusion

A destination is a place where someone or something is going or being sent, and in this paper, it is the event that attracts people to the destination and at the same time, the event going to various parts of the world through different medium. More often, events are being organised in a single destination to benefit both the country and the organisers, they complement each other in their own ways. Some examples are the events elaborated above, Anuga helps bring in business people from the food industry to Cologne, and Cologne introduces itself to the world through Anuga. The F1 Grandprix in Singapore does the same.

In the past, many may not know where Singapore is, some never even heard of the name, but through the hosting of F1 Grandprix, Singapore is able to showcase its wonderful skyline and its much boosted capabilities to the world. These events not only generate popularity to the destination, it also generates revenues, and many intangible benefits which can roll over many years. The three events discussed above has proven that a world-renowned event can contribute to a destination image enhancement and most importantly, allow the destination to inked its identity on the world map.

Task 2: Written Assignment A Dream of China by Ovidia Yu A Dream of China is written by Ovidia Yu, a Singaporean writer during the 1980s. This story talks about a woman who grew up with many stories revolving around China. The stories were told by her father who was from a wealthy family. He and his brother joined the army to fight off the Japanese in Singapore and were disowned by their father for doing so. After the war ended, the narrator’s father decides to stay in China while the brother chose otherwise. For this choice, the father feels extremely guilty throughout the years.

Being convinced that China was amazing, the narrator grabs the opportunity to visit China and finds out for herself many things that differ from her father’s stories. According to Oxford Dictionary (2010), criticism is defined as the analysis and judgement of the merits and faults of a literary or artistic work. Literary criticism therefore, means judging of literary works for both the good and bad. According to a handout of Twentieth-Century Literary Theories, there are many different kinds of literary criticism which include Formalism, Reader-Response, Sociological, Historicism, Structuralism and Psychoanalytic.

Several of the mentioned theories are applicable to this text by Ovidia Yu while the others are not very suitable. One of the literary theories that are applicable to A Dream of China would be Reader-Response Criticism. As the handout describes, reader-response criticism is a critical view that sees the reader’s interaction with the text as central to interpretation. This criticism involves the reader’s elucidation and opinion towards the text because as different readers read it, they will have expectations.

From those expectations, there lies a perfect explanation in the back of the reader’s mind. The beauty of it is, nobody has the exact same opinion and that is where variety of interpretations could be established. Collaboratively, these responses could be put together to criticise a text completely from the inside out, covering all aspects of the text. My response towards this text will be regarding the theme of the text which is an unnecessary guilt of a father. The narrator’s father’s choice of staying in Singapore after the war is a rational one ecause he has already settled down unlike his brother who was still unmarried then. “He had a wife and my eldest sister, who was already born,” (p163) perfectly justifies that the father’s choice of staying was a rational one. I believe that any man caught in that situation would make the exact same choice he did as it was the best choice available. Besides that, after the Japanese left Singapore and China, staying in Singapore was a smarter choice as it was much smaller thus, suffered less damage compared to China which is many times bigger and of course, more severely damaged.

Furthermore, Singapore remains the trading hub of overseas traders which gives the place that much more advantage in its nation’s recovery and growth compared to China. With such advantage in the nation and a weight of responsibility towards the family, I would not see how one father would choose otherwise. This is proven the right choice again by the narrator during her expedition to China when she finally meets her nobly described uncle who turns out to be a ‘drab old man’ (p173), ‘barely tolerated by people’ and ‘children throw names at him’ (p170).

All in all, they contribute and directly support the theme ‘unnecessary guilt of a father’. Another suitable literary criticism theory would be historicism. Historicism focuses on a text in relation to the historical and cultural contexts of the period in which it was created and critically evaluated. In the case of this text, it is written in the 1980s. During this time, Singapore has already made great progress with their country’s development and is far more organised and modernised compared to China then in which some parts still live in extremely poor conditions.

The narrator’s father however, settled in Singapore around 1945 as that was the year the Japanese left Singapore. At that point of time, Singapore as mentioned above stands a greater chance of recovering their loss and move on with development of their tiny country whereas China is so vast and was undergoing post-war clashes politically at that time. In 1946, civil war in China erupted yet again. With such circumstances, it is of no doubt that the narrator’s father, who was married and had a family living in a peaceful developing country, chooses to stay.

Going back to China at such times would only be asking for trouble. This is also one of the reasons why the father feels guilty. It would be because he let his own brother make the unwise choice without trying to make him stay as stated in (p170) ‘If my father had only given him a word of warning he would now be in Singapore living in the lap of luxury… ’ In the 80s when the narrator finally visits China, which was then undergoing another reform related to communism of Mao-Zedong, she met her noble uncle who turned out to be dull, arrogant, rude and living in poverty, hated by most of the villagers.

Seeing such sight would make anyone compare with their own home, in this case, Singapore, which was far more modernised and civilised where husbands treat their wives as equal in status and power unlike in Sechuan where the narrator’s uncle still ‘swore continuously at his wife’ (p169). Even now, we can still see how staying in Singapore would be the best choice at that time. In this 21st century, Singapore has become one of the most modernised countries competing alongside Japan as well as America.

While in mainland China, some parts are much modernised, but many other parts are still, till this day, without electricity and water what more to say, education. In conclusion, both theories of literary criticism has their unique own way of approach towards literary works. The choice of theories is still ultimately up to the readers to choose which is most suitable. Without literary criticism, literature would have lost their art form that has been appealing to linguists for centuries, similar to how art would lose its value if nobody cares to analyse and evaluate it. References

Oxford (2010) “criticism”. Oxford Dictionaries. April 2010. Oxford University Press. Retrieved 21 March 2012 from: http://oxforddictionaries. com/definition/criticism N. A (N. D) Twentieth-Century Literary Theories. Appendix C. Pg 1940-1961. Retrieved 21 March 2012 Gay, Kathlyn. (2008). 21st Century Books. Mao Zedong’s China. ISBN 0-8225-7285-0. pg 7. Retrieved 21 March 2012 from: http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Chinese_Civil_War Hutchings, Graham. (2001). Modern China: A Guide to a Century of Change. Harvard University Press. ISBN 0-674-00658-5. Retrieved 21 March 2012 from: http://en. wikipedia. rg/wiki/Chinese_Civil_War March, G. Patrick. (1996). Eastern Destiny: Russia in Asia and the North Pacific. Greenwood Publishing Group. ISBN 0-275-95566-4. pg 205. Retrieved 21 March 2012 from: http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Chinese_Civil_War Fairbank, John King. (1994). China: A New History. Harvard University Press. ISBN 0-674-11673-9. Retrieved 21 March 2012 from: http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Chinese_Civil_War Zarrow, Peter Gue. (2005). China in War and Revolution, 1895–1949. Routledge. ISBN 0-415-36447-7. pg 338. Retrieved 21 March 2012 from: http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Chinese_Civil_War

Chapter 2 Market Analysis 2. 1. 1 Footwear Market Size The global consumption of footwear showed a steady growth between 2004 and 2007 but the global recession caused output volumes and consumer spending across a wide range of products, including footwear, to weaken in 2009. The USA, EU and Russian markets contracted in 2008 after good growth. Whereas the Asian and Brazilian markets continue to grow as a rising number of low-middle class people replace their flip-flops by closed shoes. A more important driving force to the global footwear market is the fast growth of very affluent people in the emerging economies buying luxury footwear.

In 2008, the global footwear market was estimated at USD 201 billion and 7. 3 billion pairs, an annual average growth of 1. 4%, compared to USD 190 billion in 2004. The rising number of workingwomen, the trends towards casual footwear, the increasing affluence, and footwear as a fashionable status symbol, growing awareness about healthy and active lifestyle, rising population and disposable income levels, were driving this growth. According to a new market report published by Transparency Market Research, the global footwear market was worth USD 185. billion in 2011 and is expected to reach USD 211. 5 billion in 2018, growing at a CAGR of 1. 9% from 2011 to 2018. Global spending is expected to be moderate in 2012, as industry revenue for the Global Footwear Manufacturing industry increases by 2. 2% in the current year to total USD 122. 9 billion, up from USD 107. 4 billion in 2007. This represents annualized growth of 2. 7% in the past five years. As consumer spending power in the United States, Europe and other parts of the world steadies, demand for basic, non-discretionary footwear will continue to remain low.

Furthermore, Transparency Market Research also stated that, in the overall global market, Asia Pacific is expected to maintain its lead position in terms of revenue till 2018. It is expected to hold the largest share at 42% with 30. 1% of the global footwear market revenue share in 2018 followed by Europe with 21% of market share. 2. 1. 2 Footwear Market Segmentation The footwear market is segmented into Men, Women and Children. Women’s footwear, excluding athletic footwear makes up the industry’s largest product segment, with an estimated 26. 3% of industry revenue in 2012.

Due to rise of economic independence and demand, new products are being launched more frequently in the women’s footwear segment than the men’s and children’s sections. There is a large variety of footwear for women, which are categorized by types and styles. Most types of them are designed for specific activities but, on the other hand, in the same activity, there have many styles in it. For this reason, both of the categories are somewhat overlap. Therefore, in this chapter, women’s footwear is categorized into types as followed: * Athletic shoes * Boots * Casual shoes * Comfortable shoes Dress shoes * Job-specific shoes * Office and Professional * Sandals * Specialty and Special Needs 2. 1. 3 Footwear Market Growth Rate Packaged Facts expects the global footwear market to grow at a substantially slower clip between 2008 and 2013 compared to previous years. The global economic environment will likely put a damper on consumer spending putting pressure on all measures of the footwear including frequency of purchase, unit consumption and pricing. Regionally, markets will be affected to varying degrees and at various points in time as the global economic slump orks its way through international markets. For instance, the Asia-Pacific region may take longer to slow down and may not be as severe as other regions. Global Footwear Retail Market Forecast, 2008-2013 (in billion $) Source: Packaged Facts On a unit volume basis, Packaged Facts expects global unit volume consumption is expected to reach 12. 1 billion pairs in 2013, which is equal to 3% growth thereafter the United States and Europe return to more modest growth rates and emerging economies see consumption rates rise. Global Footwear Retail Unit Volume Forecast, 2008-2013 (in millions of pairs)

Source: Packaged Facts As a whole, the footwear Industry is in the mature stage of its life cycle. The number of producers is rising and there is still positive growth in both industry revenue and value added. However, the barriers to entry are not insurmountable. Since global population continue to increase, World Resource Institute expected world population to rise five-fold in 2050, and footwear is a product required by most customers in the world, therefore, a base level of footwear purchases will repeatedly exist. 2. Singapore Market – PEST Analysis In this chapter, PEST analysis is used to assess the current in Singapore market. Political and Legal, Economic, Social and Technological factors are examined and described. Before starting up new business in oversea, location is one of the important issues, which we have to seriously consider. As the crisis in both the US and Europe are affected the economy all around the world, Asia market is still in good condition besides it is easier for business to succeed when operating in a healthy business environment.

As for Singapore, The World Bank-International Finance Corporation (IFC) has ranked it as the easiest place in the world to do business and ranks as the world’s top logistic hub. Singapore has stable, diversified, growing and supported by regulatory environment that is transparent and balanced. As a result, Singapore succeeding became one of the world’s most prosperous countries with strong international trading links and with per capita GDP equal to that of the leading nations of Western Europe. 2. 2. 1 Political and Legal factors

Due to the government who has set up several organizations in helping the business system, in The 2011 Index of Economic Freedom, Singapore is ranked as the second freest economy in the world. According to the Corruption Perceptions Index, it also shows that Singapore is an enterprise friendly country as it consistently ranked as one of the least corrupt countries in the world. Moreover, In Singapore, the state has taken on the role of promoter and practitioner of Corporate Social Responsibility, a logical development in view of the dominant role of the government in the local economy.

The Economic Development Board Act exists to stimulate the growth, expansion and development of Singapore’s economy. Likewise, the emphasis of the regulatory policy of Singapore Ministry of Finance (MOF), which related with Companies Act, Business Registration Act, Accountant Act and Currency Act, is mainly focusing on development rather than control. These benefits help offering a healthy business environment for both local and foreign invertors. Singapore’s government also has great influent on business environment by providing well-served air, sea and telecommunications connectivity.

One of the most essential connectivity is broadband network, which is sufficient for every business need. Singapore has one the world’s busiest port, with the hub for about 400 shipping lines to more than 700 ports worldwide. Not only seaport facilities, Singapore also has Singapore Changi Airport, which is renowned as worldwide leading air hub for its efficiency and excellent services in cargo handling. The congregation of superior infrastructure and global industry professionals has made Singapore of the best destination of doing business. . 2. 2 Economy factors According to the Ministry of Manpower of Singapore, in the past decade, Singapore’s economy grew by an average of 5% per annum. Singapore’s small population and dependence on external markets and suppliers has pushed it towards economic openness, free trade and free markets. This, as well as government policies that patronize economic development, have been key success factors in Singapore’s historically strong economic performance. Singapore has a highly developed market-based economy.

It is open and has corruption-free environment, stable prices, and a per capita GDP higher than that of most developed countries. Singaporean economy depends heavily on exports, information technology products, pharmaceuticals, and on a growing financial services sector. Real GDP growth averaged 5. 9% between 2007 and 2011. According to a report published by the World Bank, Singapore’s Gross Domestic Product was USD 239. 70 billion in 2011, about 0. 39 % of the world economy. Singapore GDP Source: www. tradingeconomics. om / World Bank Singapore is also known for low tax regime. The personal income tax rates start from 0% and are capped at 20% for residents while non-residents are taxed at a flat rate of 15%. The corporate income tax rate in Singapore is approximately 8. 5% for profit up to SGD 300,000 and a flat 17% above SGD 300,000. The GST or VAT rate is 7%. Moreover, there is no dividend tax, no estate duty, and no capital gains tax. The economy contracted 1. 0% in 2009 as a result of the global financial crisis, but rebounded in 2011.

Over the longer term, the government hopes to establish a new growth path that focuses on raising productivity. Singapore has attracted major investments in pharmaceuticals and medical technology production and will continue efforts to establish Singapore as Southeast Asia’s financial and high-tech hub. Share of GDP by industry Source: Department of Statistics Singapore As from the graphs above, even vary along with global economic situation, Singapore’s economy is considered as one of a great place to invest with strong emerging economy in every business sectors. . 2. 3 Social factors According to Department of Statistics of Singapore, the total population was 5. 31 million as at end-June 2012. There were 3. 82 million Singapore residents, comprising 3. 29 million Singapore citizens and 0. 53 million permanent residents, and 1. 49 million non-residents. Female residents outnumbered their male counterparts in Singapore further. The sex ratio was 970 males per 1,000 females in 2012. Chinese formed the majority at 74 % of the resident population, followed by the Malays with 13 % and the Indians with 9. %. The proportion of Singapore residents aged 65 years and over rose from 9. 3 % in 2011 to 9. 9% in 2012. Sex Composition of Resident Population Source: Source: Manpower Research and Statistics Department, Ministry of Manpower, Singapore Age Distribution of Resident Population Source: Source: Manpower Research and Statistics Department, Ministry of Manpower, Singapore Singapore Residents by Age Group, Ethnic Group and Sex, June 2012 Source: Source: Manpower Research and Statistics Department, Ministry of Manpower, Singapore

Singapore Manpower Research and Statistics Department also stated that Singapore Nominal incomes rose strongly in 2011, amid a tighter labour market with more residents employed in both professional, managerial, executive ; technician (PMET) and non-PMET jobs in 2011. The median monthly income from work of full-time employed residents rose by 8. 3% over the year to USD 3,249 in 2011, Taking headline inflation into account, the median income rose in real terms by 3. 1% in 2011. Distribution of Resident Labour Force by Age, 2001 and 2011 (As at June)

Source: Manpower Research and Statistics Department, Ministry of Manpower, Singapore 2. 2. 4 Technology factors As Singapore proceeding into globalization and networked economies where competition and collaboration are in the same page, the presence of a strong technological infrastructure is crucial and unavoidable. The changes of technology are not only refer to the changes in production techniques, production equipment and communication, it also leads to improvement of production and services as well. Besides, it helps speeding up the movement of the information including improvement of the analysis information.

Singapore’s extensive infrastructure set up is one of a fundamental attractiveness for foreign investment. According to the 2010 Infocomm Usage by Households and Individuals Survey, Singapore has put in place an advanced and reliable Infocomm infrastructure that has met the needs and demands of the economy and society. The proportion of resident households with Internet and broadband access at home reached 82%. The National Infocomm Infrastructure (NII) started as a key initiative of the IT 2000 Master Plan, with the building of a high-speed nationwide broadband network as a major milestone in its development.

Again, Singapore has also grown to be one of the major global telecommunications hubs in the region and is well positioned as a hub for international capacity. Over the last few years, Singapore has also grown to be a trans-cable hub where regional submarine cable systems and international cable systems interconnect. In addition, Singapore government also emphasizes on its strength and makes the most of its electronic performances by providing useful resources and information online.

For example, the Custom Office of Singapore provides e-service transactions through its website in order to facilitate all investors and remain as a global trade hub trusted by foreign trading partners and business operating in Singapore. 2. 2. 5 Conclusion From the factors analyzed above, it can be concluded that Singapore government has play an important role on its business success both domestic and international. With government’s policies, it has created an enterprise-friendly environment for invertors worldwide.

Singapore extensive connectivity, together with a pro-business environment and legal and regulatory framework, make it an ideal circumstance for doing business. 3. Market trend Howard Davis, a professor of footwear design at Parsons School of Design, told Footwear News in 2005, “Self-adjusting shoes will be shoes of the future because the consumer will demand real and serious comfort. ” Not only comfort, the industry’s demand is primarily driven by fashion and demography. Newcomers with more fashionable product may thrive at the expense of a fading rival.

The profitability of individual companies depends on their ability to design attractive footwear lines and remain at the forefront of consumers’ consciousness. Consequently, designers attempt to combine comfort and style by using new technologies, with predictions that customized fit could be soon become more popular and more widely available. As for Thai footwear trend through the world financial crisis, the Department of Export Promotion has assessed the impact and suggested that Thai firms has to seek for new market replacement in order to gain and maintain market share apart from European and US market that are in their downturn.

Other than maintaining the share, Thai firms have to be prepared to reap the opportunities from new impact of economy under the Asian Economic Community (AEC) in 2015. 4. Key Success Factors In order for March Shoes to accomplish its marketing objectives, the key success factors are the elements that are highly necessary. There are a few factors include: * Access to distribution channels * Access to targeted market * Understand actual customer behavior The key success factors might be changed from time to time, the company must continue to plan ahead beyond present needs, and keep pace with rapid technological changes.

ABSTRACT Malaysia and Singapore have a unique and special relation due to the geography, ideology history, culture, , economy, politics and ethnicity factors. Even though with the unique and special factors, its sometimes create tensions between both countries. However, it is said that the relations between both countries have evolved from an inherently unstable into a more mature and positive relationship. This paper will be discussing the current major conflict issue which distressing relationship between both countries and also the resolve issue.

This paper also will analyse the relationship during various Prime Minister and their foreign policy towards each other’s. Finally it will discuss why the relationship becomes warmer and the factor that influence the positive relationship. INTRODUCTION Singapore merged with Malaya, Sabah and Sarawak to form the Federation of Malaysia in 1963. However, this political union proved to be short-lived as Singapore was ousted from the Federation in 1965 due to political and ethnic differences.

This failed political union, and the resulting stigma of separation has continued to cast a shadow over Singapore-Malaysia’s bilateral ties. Furthermore, due to the geographical proximity between these two states, bilateral problems are prone to exaggeration by both sides, often a case of “virtuous self and the stereotypical other”. Malaysia and Singapore relations are unique and special due to factors such as geography, history, politics, ideology, economy, culture and ethnicity. These factors sometimes have created tensions between both countries.

The uniqueness of the relationship is reflected by the various terms used to describe the state of rivalry between the two countries such as “Siamese twins”, “sibling rivalry” or “family quarrel”, suggesting a complex love-hate relationship that has grown out of a shared common history and cultural background, coloured by political differences and, ironically, by economic competition and interdependency. DISPUTES AND SOLUTIONS KERETAPI TANAH MELAYU (KTM) – In 1990, Malaysia and Singapore had signed an agreement concerning Tanjong Pagar railway station.

Malaysia had agreed to relocate the station to Bukit Timah to allowed development of the land that located in the premium area. On 24 May 2010, a meeting between Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak and his Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong in Singapore resolved the relocation issue. They announced that Malaysia’s national railway company Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM) will be move out from Tanjong Pagar railway station and establish a station at the Woodlands Train Checkpoint (WTCP) by 1 July 2011.

Malaysia also will relocate its customs, immigration and quarantine facilities from Tanjong Pagar to the WTCP to ensure the systematic and integrated border crossing facility between Malaysia and Singapore . A joint holding company (60 % Malaysia ownership, 40 % Singapore) will then develop the abandoned KTM properties. WATER SUPPLY – Malaysia provides Singapore with about half its water. On 1 September 1961, the Federation of Malaya signed an agreement giving Singapore the right to draw up to 86 million imperial gallons (390,000 m3) of water per day with effect through 2011.

On 29 September 1962, a further agreement was signed providing Singapore the right to draw up to 250 million imperial gallons (1,100,000 m3) per day from the Johore River, with effect through 2061. Both agreements stipulated the price of RM 0. 03 per 1,000 gallons. In turn, the Johor Government pays Singapore RM 0. 50 for every 1000 gallons of treated water. On 31 August 2011, the 1961 water agreement expired and the waterworks and facilities were handed over to the Johor state government.

The handover included the Skudai and Gunung Pulai water treatment plants, which were built and managed by Public Utilities Board (PUB) for 50 years, as well as two pump houses in Pontian and Tebrau . JOHOR-SINGAPORE CAUSEWAY- The state of Johor currently already has developed ports including Pasir Gudang and Tanjong Pelapas. Under the former Mahathir administration, the Malaysian government scheduled to build a new customs, immigration and quarantine complex on a hilltop near the Johor Bahru railway station.

A bridge is planned to link the new customs complex with the city square. The proposals on replacing the old causeway with a new bridge have resulted in a political rift between the two countries since the early 2000s. Singapore has hinted that it might agree to a bridge if its air force is allowed to use part of Johor’s airspace. Malaysia refused the offer and negotiation is said to be still on going. In September 2003, Malaysia first announced its intention to replace its half of the Causeway with a new bridge.

On 5 January 2004, Singapore’s Foreign Minister Prof Jayakumar commented that it did not make sense for Singapore to replace its half of the bridge with a new bridge, as it would cost, along with revisions to customs, immigration and quarantine facilities, more than $500 million. On 2 February 2004, Malaysia said it would present Singapore with a new design for the proposed bridge to replace the Causeway, as Malaysia is still interested in building the new bridge.

However, in September 2004, Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi announced that Malaysia would defer the half-bridge project as part of its effort to pare down its huge fiscal deficit by deferring big ticket projects. In April 2006, Abdullah Badawi announced that Malaysia would drop the half-bridge project altogether. PEDRA BRANCA (PULAU BATU PUTIH) – On 21 December 1979 Malaysia published a new map which showed the island to be within its territorial waters.

This ignited a 29-year territorial dispute which, together with the issue of sovereignty over the nearby maritime features of Middle Rocks and South Ledge, this disputes was presented to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for resolution. On 23 May 2008 the ICJ ruled that Pedra Branca is under Singapore’s sovereignty. THE CENTRAL PROVIDENT FUND (CPF) issue has still not been resolved after many years. It is hoped that the Malaysian Government will pursue the long standing issue pertaining to the dilemma of Malaysians who have left the republic for more than a decade and are still unable to withdraw their CPF savings.

Under the present CPF withdrawal regulations, Malaysians from Peninsular Malaysia are only able to withdraw their CPF savings at the age of 50 if they have not been working in the republic for the last two years. The CPF law on withdrawal seems to discriminate against Malaysians from Peninsular Malaysia as other foreigners, including Malaysians from Sabah and Sarawak, are allowed full withdrawal of their CPF savings when they leave Singapore. Land Reclamations Issue – Singapore had extensively conducted the land reclamation activity within its territorial water.

Plans for the Tekong reclamation project were made publicly available since 1991, and for the Tuas project, since 2001. Until January 2002 there is no objection from neighbouring country. However in 2002 Malaysia had objected the activity. After that, Malaysia embarked on two legal tracks to stop Singapore’s land reclamation works. First, on 4 July 2003, Malaysia served notice to Singapore that it wanted arbitration to decide whether Singapore has the right to reclaim the land off Tuas and Pulau Tekong.

This arbitration tribunal, comprising five members agreed on by both sides, was formed on 9 Oct 2003. Then, on 5 September 2003 Malaysia applied separately to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) for an order on provisional measures, seeking to put an immediate stop to Singapore’s reclamation works pending the setting up of the arbitration panel. The hearing took place between 25 and 27 Sep 03 in Hamburg, Germany. On 8 Oct 2003, ITLOS unanimously decided that Singapore could continue its land reclamation activities.

In April 2005, Singapore and Malaysia formally ended the reclamation dispute by signing a settlement agreement. FACTORS AFFECTING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE Looking at the leadership style of both Prime Minister after the independent of Singapore, there is a high and low relationship which creating the foreign policy towards both countries. We can observed during the Tunku Abdul Rahman, Tun Abdul Razak and also Tun Hussein Onn, the relationship is calm and interdependent towards each other.

During this era also, Mr Lee Kuan Yew as the Prime Minister His leadership style have a strong influence in the manner of bilateral issue between both countries. He is serious in dealing with the issue and also influence by his past experience and the pre and post separation political baggage. To show the difficulties in the relationship, Singapore first Deputy Prime Minister Mr Lee Hsien Loong says: “ its relationship with Malaysia is one of its important and complex foreign relation” And Tun Mahathir also had a remark that saying: it’s impossible to be friendly with Singapore because of the neighbouring city states unfriendliness towards Malaysia. Singapore gets into that kind of mood that they reject anything that comes from Malaysia. We try to be friendly as possible but it’s impossible” Relations with Singapore under Mahathir’s tenure have been stormy. Many disputed issues raised during his administration have not been resolved. Many of these international issues have been raised up under Mahathir’s Premiership term, but no significant headway had been made then to resolve them bilaterally.

Both sides had stubbornly refused to compromise, with the result of bilateral relations turning frosty. Tun Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi became the fifth Prime Minister in 2003 and he was Dr Mahathir’s choice. Since Abdullah Badawi took over, bilateral relations between Singapore and Malaysia have undergone a sea change. Part of it was due to Abdullah warm personality, non-confrontational, consensus-seeking characters and sincere attempts to improve ties together with his policy are to give in to almost every request, and relations have begun to thaw.

And this was reciprocated by Singapore leaders, as reflected in the flow of many senior Singaporean leaders to the funeral of Datin Seri Endon, Mr Abdullah’s latewife – which certainly went beyond the call of protocol. During Pak Lah era, few discussion has been made such as the causeway issue, air space issue and also the KTM land in Tanjong Pagar. They are trying to resolve the issue through the win-win situation. When Dato’ Seri Najib taking over the Prime Minister of Malaysia, the relationship is grow warming.

The effort of Najib in clearing major bilateral issue concerning both countries make that relation becoming more mature and good. Since the effort of clearing the implementation of the point of agreement (POA) which had been negotiated and agreed upon in 1990 which involved the KTM land in Tanjung Pagar that cleared in 2010, more bilateral relationship and opportunities is open. WARMING TIES BETWEEN MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE There is several issue and factors that make the relationship between Malaysia Nad Singapore becoming warmer. The economic factor is one of the most important relations and always had a high degree of inter dependence.

Malaysia and Singapore have been each other’s main trading partners for many years. Data from Malaysia’s Department of Statistics, for instance, show that bilateral trade between Malaysia and Singapore was valued at RM175. 5bil last year, up from RM161. 7bil in 2011. Malaysia remains Singapore’s largest trading partner, while Singapore is Malaysia’s second largest trading partner after China. Malaysia and Singapore economic interdependence is just not reflected in the bilateral trade only, it also involving the investment in both countries.

From the data tabled by the Malays Malaysian Industrial Development Authority show that Singapore remains one of the top investors in the country, with total value of approved projects standing at RM2. 2bil last year, down slightly from RMRM2. 5bil in 2011 because of the global economic weakness. Singapore’s investments in Malaysia are mainly concentrated in the manufacturing sector. Recently, the development of Iskandar had attracted the Singapore investors and that had make their investor is the largest single group of investor there which accounting about 17% of the total money invested there.

In the other sides, Malaysia investors also actively invested in Singapore. It had been showed with involvement Malaysian company like YTL Corp, SP Setia and Selangor Dredging in real estate business, Maybank in financial sector, Axiata Group in telecommunication and also Genting Berhad in the leisure and hospitality sector. The government investment arm from both country namely Khazanah from Malaysia and Temasek from Singapore also had form a joint venture in developing the commercial land parcels in Singapore such as Marina South and Ophir-Ophir .

In Iskandar they are also establishing the joint venture company to invest in two wellness related project with a gross development value of RM 3b. To increase connectivity between both countries, few projects has been agreed and initiated. The extension of MRT from Singapore to Johore Bharu is planned to be built to reduce the traffic congestion in both entrance in Singapore and Malaysia. The High Speed Train from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore also planned to reduce travel time to 90 minutes. This infrastructure development also will increase the economic development in the area.

In security and defence matters, both states share a serious concern over the emergence of JI in the region. They have coordinated on police work and intelligence sharing, and even synchronized the initial arrests of JI members in December 2001. JI members were imprisoned in both countries under the Internal Security Act (ISA), which both Malaysia and Singapore patterned after the British law that allows for detention without trial for up to two years for supposedly dangerous suspects. Also, both countries have put pressure on Indonesia to take a more active role in confronting the terrorism problem.

In the military, several bilateral exercise and operation is conducted to reduce the crime in Straits of Malacca, Eyes in The Sky Operation is jointly conducted to scout the strait for pirates. The flights are undertaken by crews with nationals from the different countries so they can better share information. Intelligence gathered on pirates is also disseminated among governments, including on a Web-based network for quick and easy access. These actions, taken together, made it far more costly and difficult for the pirates to operate.

Both military forces also involve in the Five Power Defence Arrangement that are a series of defence relationships established by a series of bilateral agreements between the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia and Singapore signed in 1971, whereby the five states will consult each other in the event of external aggression or threat of attack against Peninsular Malaysia (East Malaysia is not included as part of the area of responsibilities under the FPDA) or Singapore. FACTORS THAT MAKES THE RELATIONSHIP GROWING TIES The first factor is the leadership role and function. With the new eneration of leader ship which is the second generation of previous leader, Najib is son of Tun Abd Razak and Lee Hsien Loong is son of Lee Kuan Yew, they are trying actively to resolve the bilateral issue of both countries. With the new generation thinking they realised the interdependence both country each many matters. The second factor economic interdependence which shows that both country are main trading partner each other. Malaysia also inviting the investors from Singapore to invest in the economic development project initiate in many region in Malaysia such as IRDA, ECER and also NCER.

The encouragement by both governments through their public and private sector to collaborate with their counterpart shows there relationship will going stronger. The third factor is massive people to people contact which encouraging tourist from both countries visiting each other will develop this contact. This will created necessary goodwill and tolerance among others. This also had been expanded through sport activity which we can see that the football team from both countries is participating in the league. CONCLUSION

We can conclude that due to their historical, cultural linkages and their geographical proximity Malaysia and Singapore had enjoyed and share a special relationship. The issue and challenge between each other had brought a god point for both countries to sit down and discussing the way to move forward. Both of the leaders are aware the important of each other in many factors. Both new generation leaders is trying hard to improve the relationship with each other’s even though there is a few issue that not resolve yet.

But their mutual agreement in developing economic sector each other shows the positive prospect towards very warm relationship. Both leaders also seem in the same view in settling issue through win-win situation and compromise. With the realisation by the leaders in win-win situation and compromising each other, it may lead towards prosperous relationship in the future. It’s the leader and their foreign policy which is determining the future of these relations. Thus, the leader should take every effort to ensure the warming of the relationship is preserve to ensure the mutual benefits.

The security and military activities is to be enhanced to ensure the safety of both countries. With the firm security the development of economy can be planned and develop towards higher level. With the interest of Singapore investors in IRDA is high, it is not possible Singapore will extend the security watch in the area to ensure safety of their investment. Thus this will benefit both countries towards long and warm relationship. Despite all the bilateral issue, it is observed that, both country is dependant each other in economy, social, and also security aspect.

With that the warming relations that initiated by both the new generation leader is a good step towards more close relation. 3117 words Reference: Ganesan, 2005, p. 58 Rusdi Omar, et. al. (2005). Hubungan Malaysia-Singapura Era Mahathir. Sintok: Penerbit Universiti Utara Malaysia. p. 2. Joint statement by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak at the Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat on 24 May 2010, 24 May 2010, , retrieved 2010-05-25 Water Conflicts Between Malaysia and Singapore. Wikipedia the Free Encyclopedia Star. (1999). June 5. p. -2. 1961 water agreement with Johor expires on Wednesday. The Straits Times. 14 October 2011 “Johor-Singapore Causeway”. Wikipedia Rusdi Omar. 2007. Malaysia-Singapore Relations: Issues and Strategies. Working paper presented at the International Conference on Southeast Asia in 3-4 December 2007 at University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia M’sia Stops Construction Of Bridge To Replace Johor Causeway. Prime Minister’s Office, Malaysia. 12 April 2006. Pedra Branca, Singapore. Wikipedia Solve CPF Withdrawal Issue With Singapore. The Star Online. 12 November 2008 Kyodo News. (2005).

Singapore and Malaysia resolve land reclamation dispute. April 26. http://www. channelnewsasia. com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/144527/1/. html Rusdi Omar, Mohd Ainuddin; Mas Juliana Mukhtarudin. 2005. Malaysia-Singapore Relations During Mahathir’s Era. Sintok, Kedah: UUM News Straits Time. (2003). May 5. p. 22. Asian Economic News. (2002). Oct 14. p. 19 Malaysia’s Foreign Relations: Issues and Challenges. Ruhanas Harun. Page 24 The Star (2013) Mac 16 Malaysia-Singapore Relations: Never Mind the Rhetoric . Anthony L. Smith. October 2004 ——————————————– 1 ]. Ganesan, 2005, p. 58 [ 2 ]. Rusdi Omar, et. al. (2005). Hubungan Malaysia-Singapura Era Mahathir. Sintok: Penerbit Universiti Utara Malaysia. p. 2. [ 3 ]. Joint statement by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak at the Singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat on 24 May 2010, 24 May 2010, , retrieved 2010-05-25 [ 4 ]. Water Conflicts Between Malaysia and Singapore. Wikipedia the Free Encyclopedia [ 5 ]. Star. (1999). June 5. p. 1-2. [ 6 ]. 1961 water agreement with Johor expires on Wednesday. The Straits Times. 14 October 2011 [ 7 ]. Johor-Singapore Causeway”. Wikipedia [ 8 ]. Rusdi Omar. 2007. Malaysia-Singapore Relations: Issues and Strategies. Working paper presented at the International Conference on Southeast Asia in 3-4 December 2007 at University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia [ 9 ]. M’sia Stops Construction Of Bridge To Replace Johor Causeway. Prime Minister’s Office, Malaysia. 12 April 2006. [ 10 ]. Pedra Branca, Singapore. Wikipedia [ 11 ]. Solve CPF Withdrawal Issue With Singapore. The Star Online. 12 November 2008 [ 12 ]. Kyodo News. (2005). Singapore and Malaysia resolve land reclamation dispute.

April 26. http://www. channelnewsasia. com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/144527/1/. html [ 13 ]. Rusdi Omar, Mohd Ainuddin& Mas Juliana Mukhtarudin. 2005. Malaysia-Singapore Relations During Mahathir’s Era. Sintok, Kedah: UUM [ 14 ]. News Straits Time. (2003). May 5. p. 22. [ 15 ]. Asian Economic News. (2002). Oct 14. p. 19. [ 16 ]. Malaysia’s Foreign Relations: Issues and Challenges. Ruhanas Harun. Page 24 [ 17 ]. The Star (2013) Mac 16 [ 18 ]. Ibid [ 19 ]. The Star (2013) Mac 16 [ 20 ]. Ibid [ 21 ]. Malaysia-Singapore Relations: Never Mind the Rhetoric . Anthony L. Smith. October 2004

Social Studies Portfolio Entry 1 Draft 1 Independence of Singapore Introduction This portfolio entry is about the independence of Singapore. I chose this topic as I will learn about it in Primary 5, in relation to Social Studies. The independence of Singapore led us to full self-government. We had little resources, but the determination and perseverance to survive. What Happened Before Independence After the war, the British were no longer seen as capable leaders of Singapore, as they had failed to protect her from the Japanese.

The British granted Singapore self-government in 1959, and the PAP won during the general elections, making Lee Kuan Yew the first Prime Minister. Singapore and Malaya merged with Sabah and Sarawak to make the Federation of Malaysia. However, Singapore separated from Malaysia because of the racial and religious tensions between both countries. Lee Kuan Yew feared that there would not be enough resources for Singapore to survive. How the Government governed Singapore after Independence

The government tried to have harsher punishments for crimes, so that there would not be many criminals and Singapore would be freer of corruption. Lee Kuan Yew grew Singapore’s economy by making education compulsory and maximising business opportunities. He also provided more housing for citizens. How others felt about the Independence of Singapore At the time of independence, citizens and even the ruling party of Singapore felt apprehensive about the future. With no natural resources, many felt that she would not be able to survive without the help of the other countries.

My feelings towards the Independence of Singapore I feel the forced independence was a blessing in disguise. With wise steps, active participation and determination, Singapore has become a thriving country. If there had been no sudden separation from Malaysia, Singapore might not be what it is today. Conclusion In conclusion, Singapore’s independence allowed her to be successful. If Singapore had been a part of Malaysia instead and decided to become independent at a later stage, she would have to spend more time adapting and probably would not be as advanced as she is now.

GFPP 2023 Politics of South-East Asia Topic: Singapore under Lee Kuan Yew Group :B Members’ Names : Chan Xin Ying 214765 Muganthini A/P Kumaran 214956 Ranjani A/P Selvarajan 214951 Teaw Zhen Sheng 215070 Lim Chia Min 214919 Leong Siew Fui 214882 Lau Shie Yin 214853 Tan Kwee Lyn 214762 Chiew Guat Ying 214929 Mehala A/P Gopalakrishan 214972 Lecturer Name : Professor Patit Paban Mishra GFPP 2023 Politics of South-East Asia Topic: Singapore under Lee Kuan Yew Group :B Members’ Names : Chan Xin Ying 214765 Muganthini A/P Kumaran 214956 Ranjani A/P Selvarajan 214951 Teaw Zhen Sheng 215070

Lim Chia Min 214919 Leong Siew Fui 214882 Lau Shie Yin 214853 Tan Kwee Lyn 214762 Chiew Guat Ying 214929 Mehala A/P Gopalakrishan 214972 Lecturer Name : Professor Patit Paban Mishra Pg 1 Pg1-5 Pg 5-7 Pg 8-10 Pg 7-8 Pg 9 Pg 9-10 Pg 10-15 Pg 10-12 Pg 12-14 Pg 14-15 Pg15 Pg 15-18 Pg 18 Pg 1 Pg1-5 Pg 5-7 Pg 8-10 Pg 7-8 Pg 9 Pg 9-10 Pg 10-15 Pg 10-12 Pg 12-14 Pg 14-15 Pg15 Pg 15-18 Pg 18 Contents 1) Introduction 2) The Economy Policy Under Lee Kuan Yew 3) Creating a Clean Government in Singapore 4) Reshuffling the society, creating a fair not welfare society i) Greening Singapore ii) Many tongues, one language ii) Rule and Law iv) Fighting on Traffic Congestion 5) Regional and International Policies and Relation under Lee Kuan Yew i) ASEAN- Malaysia ii) China iii) Japan iv) United States 6) Comparison between Lee Kuan Yew and Mahathir Mohamad 7) Conclusion 8) Attachments 9) References Introduction Singapore the streets are now sparkling clean, and the city runs like clockwork. Singapore is a leading financial center, and boasts an impressive skyline that is easily recognizable. Among other things, Singapore’s public transportation and education systems are consistently rated highly in international rankings.

Singapore is also known as a clean and green city, and at least some of this can be attributed to Lee’s tough stance against chewing gum and littering. Singapore is not only good in this aspects but its really good in economical wise too. Singapore’ success in economic and social development in recent decades has been due to pragmatic policies and general public acceptance of a limited government role in such areas as health, social security. Southeast Asia has developed considerably over the past half-century, but Singapore has leaped even further ahead of her much larger and well-endowed neighbors.

All this credits should be directed to the prime minister of Singapore who is the great man Lee Kuan Yee. He is widely credited as the architect behind Singapore’s remarkable transformation from third-world country to first in just under a generation. Lee Kuan Yew was born in Singapore on 16th September 1923, a third generation descendant of immigrants from China’s Guangdong province. He read law at Cambridge University, England. In 1954, he formed the People’s Action Party. Five years later, his party won the Singapore general election and he became prime minister at 35.

In November 1990, he assumed the post of senior minister. I) The Economy Policy under Lee Kuan Yew Anyone who predicted in 1965 when Singapore seperated from Malaysia that Singapore would become a financial centre would have been thought been thought mad. However, it had become a reality, till now, it is a normal sight to see the gleaming modern offices in the city centre with banks of computers linking Singapore with London, New York,Tokyo, Frankfurt, Hong Kong and other major financial centre in the world. Singapore is considered one of the world’s great cities, comparable to New York, London and Hong Kong.

Unlike Hong Kong, Singapore could neither ride on the reputation of the City of London, an established financial centre with its long history of international banking, nor depend on the backing of the Bank of England. In 1968, Singapore was still a third world country. Foreign bankers needed to be assured of stable social conditions, a good working and living environment, efficient infrastructure and a pool of skilled and adaptable professionals. In 1965, both Lee Kuan Yao and Goh Keng Swee had decided, soon after independence, that Singapore should not have a central bank which could issue currency and create money.

Lee Kuan Yew had determined not to let Singapore dollar’s currency to lose its value against the strong currencies of the big nations such as the U. S. The MAS( Monetary Authority of Singapore) which is in charge of supervising the bank industry, has been given all the authority to issue currency notes and also keep pace with developments in financial services. Lee had to fight every inch of the way to establish in Singapore’s integrity, competence and judgment. Lee Kuan Yew made a modest start with an offshore Asian dollar market, the counterpart of the Eurodollar market .

In the early years from 1968 to 1985, Singapore under the governance of Lee Kuan Yew, had managed to attract international financial institutions by abolishing withholding tax on interest income earned by non-resident depositors. The economy in the 1980s under Lee Kuan Yew rested on five major sectors: the regional entreport trade; export-oriented manufacturing; petroleum refining and shipping; production of goods and services for the domestic economy; and the provision of focused services for the international market, such as banking and finance, telecommunications, and tourism.

The outstanding growth of manufacturing in the 1970s and 1980s had a major impact on the economy and the society, but tended to obscure what carried over from the economic structure of the past. Singapore’s economy always depended on international trade and on the sale of services. An entrepot was essentially a provider of services such as wholesaling, warehousing, sorting and processing, credit, currency exchange, risk management, ship repair and provisioning, business information, and the adjudication of commercial disputes.

In this perspective, which focused on exchange and processing, the 1980s assembly of electronic components and manufacture of precision optical instruments were evolutionary steps from the nineteenth century sorting and grading of pepper and rubber. Both processes used the skills of Singaporeans to add value to commodities that were produced elsewhere and destined for consumption outside the city-state. A former colonial trading port serving the regional economies of naval Southeast Asia, Singapore in the 1990s aspired to be a “global city” serving world markets and major multinational corporations.

A quarter century after independence in 1965, the city-state had become a manufacturing center with one of the highest incomes in the region and a persistent labor shortage. As one of Asia’s four “little dragons” or newly industrializing economies. Singapore along with the Republic of Korea (South Korea), Taiwan, and Hong Kong was characterized by an export-oriented economy, relatively equitable income allocation, trade surpluses with the United States and other developed countries, and a common legacy of Chinese civilization and Confucian values.

The small island had no resources other than its strategic location and the skills of its nearly 2. 7 million people. In 1988 it claimed a set of economic superlatives, including the world’s busiest port, the world’s highest rate of annual economic growth (11 percent), and the world’s highest savings rate (42 percent of income). As Prime Minister of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew presided over an exponential increase in Singapore’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from US$704 million in 1960 to US$38 billion in 1990. This figure currently stands at US$222 billion, or over 300 times its level in 1960.

Adjusting for cost of living differences, Singapore’s GDP per capita was ranked 3rd globally by the International Monetary Fund in 2010. Few countries have grown so rapidly, and Singapore’s economic success has been widely hailed by international observers. The city-state Lee inherited in 1959 was very different from the Singapore of today. Another of Lee’s significant contributions is his establishment of the Government Investment Corporation (GIC) of Singapore in 1981 to manage Singapore’s foreign reserves. The exact size of Singapore’s reserves is not known, but it is estimated to be one of the world’s top ten largest in size.

These reserves have allowed Singapore to defend her currency and maintain exchange rate stability even during the Asian Financial Crisis of 1997-8. No bank in Singapore faltered. Lee Kuan Yew leaves behind a culture that prizes meritocracy and has no tolerance for corruption. He introduced legislation to strengthen the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), and more controversially, proposed in 1994 that the salaries of ministers and top civil servants should be linked to top professionals in the private sector to maintain a clean and honest government.

Lee currently draws an annual salary of over US$3 million. In the 2011 Corruption Perception Index compiled by Transparency International, experts at ten independent institutions including the World Bank and Economist Intelligence Unit ranked Singapore the least corrupt country in the world. Lee Kuan Yew says a major reason for Singapore’s economic achievements is its political stability. He attributes much of this to the dominant role of the People’s Action Party (PAP), which he co-founded in 1954. Despite the praise lavished on Mr.

Lee for his economic accomplishments, many have criticized his approach against political dissent. Singapore’s economy under Lee Kuan Yew, had been said to achieve miracle. A small country that separated from Malaysia, it had reached to be one of the larger financial centres of the world, with its foreign exchange market ranking fourth in size after London, New York and only slightly behind Tokyo. Lee Kuan Yew had lead Singapore as the high-tech leader of Southeast Asia, the commercial entrepot, the scientific centre.

Singapore now plays a major role in the politics and economics of Southeast Asia and beyond. II)Creating A Clean Government in Singapore When Lee Kuan Yew’s political party took over office in 1959, the government set out to have a clean administration. Lee Kuan Yew’s government had a deep sense of mission to establish a clean and effective government. When they took the oath of office at the ceremony in the city council chamber in June 1959, Lee Kuan Yew and the rest of the parliament all wore white shirts and white slacks to symbolize purity and honesty in their personal behavior and their public life.

Lee Kuan Yew’s government make sure that from the day they took office in June 1959 that every dollar in revenue would be properly accounted for and would reach the beneficiaries at the grass roots as one dollar, without being siphoned off along the way. So from the beginning, special attentions were given to the areas where discretionary powers had been exploited for personal gain and sharpened the instruments that could prevent, detect or deter such practices.

The principle agency charged with this task was the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) set up by the British un 1952 in order to deal with corruption, especially at lower and middle levels of the police, hawker inspectors and land bailiffs who had to take action against the many who broke the law by occupying public roads for illegal hawking, or state land for building their squatter huts. These inspectors could either issue a summons or look the other way for an appropriate bribe. In 1960, the outdated 1937 anti-corruption law was changed and widened the definition of gratuity to include anything of value.

The amendments gave wide powers to investigators, including arrest and search and investigation of bank accounts and bank books of suspected persons and their wives, children or agents. There was no need to prove that the person who received bribe was in a position to carry out the required favour. In 1960, a change was made to allow the courts to treat proof that an accused was living beyond his means or had property his income could not explain as corroborating evidence that accused had accepted or obtained a bribe.

With a keen nose to the ground and the power to investigate every officer and every minister, the director of the CPIB, working from the Prime Minister’s Office, developed a justly formidable reputation for sniffing out those betraying the public trust. In 1963, it was made as compulsory for witnesses summoned by the CPIB to present themselves to give information. The maximum fine for corruption was increased from $10,000 to $100,000 in 1989. Giving false or misleading information to the CPIB became an offence subject to imprisonment and a fine up to $10,000, and the courts were empowered to confiscate the benefits derived from corruption.

Corruptions used to be organized in large scale in certain areas. In 1971, the CPIB broke up a syndicate of over 250 mobile squad policemen who received payments ranging from S$5 to S$10 per month from lorry sides of the lorries. Those owners who refused to pay would be constantly harassed by having summonses issued against them. The Institution of Management Development’s World Competitiveness Yearbook 1997 ranked the least corrupt countries in the whole world giving 10 points as the perfect score for the country with no corruption.

Singapore was ranked as the least corrupt country in Asia with a score of 9. 18 ahead of Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan. Transparency International which based in Berlin, placed Singapore in seventh place worldwide in 1998 for absence of corruption. III)Reshuffling the society: Disciplining ethnics, and creating a fair, not welfare society I) Greening Singapore After independence, Lee Kuan Yew had searched for some dramatic ways to distinguished Singapore from other Third World Countries and finally he opt the path for a clean and green Singapore, as an oasis in Southeast Asia.

Besides improving physical infrastructure, Lee Kuan Yew also stated the importance to improve the rough and ready ways of people. He identified the reasons of littering laid on unlicensed hawkers who sell food on the pavements and streets in total disregard of traffic. He also was alerted about the problem created by “pirate taxi” which ruined the bus services. In the 1970s, Lee Kuan Yew’s government had created many jobs and enforce the law and reclaimed the streets. Food hawkers were licensed and moved towards proper hawker center with piped water, sewers and garbage disposal.

By early 1980s, nearly all hawkers were resettled. Lee Kuan Yew’s attempt on transforming Singapore into a tropical garden city was successful. Millions of trees , palms and shrubs were planted and the green eventually raised the morale of the people as well as pride for their surroundings. Children were educated in schools by getting themselves to plant trees, growing it in growth garden, and the message is brought to their parents. Singapore green society was admired by leaders of other nations such as Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who greened Kuala Lumpur after Singapore’s visit. President Suharto who greens Jakarta and also President Marcos in Manila. Lee Kuan Yew had managed to clean up the Singapore River and Kallang Basin and bring fish back to water, which was a massive engineering job. Underground sewers were laid for the whole island and people were moved from 3000 backyard and cottage industry and resettled in industrial estates with sullages traps for oil and waste. Lee also deal with air and sound pollutions in Singapore, urging all factories to landscape their grounds and plant trees before they could commerce operations.

From the 1970s, to save youngsters from nasty and dangerous addiction, Lee Kuan Yew took action to banned all advertising on cigarettes, “Smoke-Free Week” was launched every year. A ban on chewing gum brought Singapore much ridicule in America. Vandals stuck chewing gum onto sensors of the doors of MRT trains and services were disrupted. Soon the ban was executed, the nuisance was greatly reduced. II) Many tongues, one language Lee Kuan Yew realized that English had to be Singapore’s language of the workplace and the common language.

He stated that as an international community, neither Malay, Chinese nor Tamil could be used. In order to achieve this, Lee Kuan Yew had introduced teaching three mother tongues, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil in English schools and to balance this English was also introduced in Chinese, Malay and Indian school. Malay and Indians welcomed the policy but Chinese had made an opposition stand and expressed their unhappiness to the press, particularly from Chinese language Nanyang Universiti and Ngee Ann College.

As a result Lee Kuan Yew had merged both Nantah and University of Singapore to become National University of Singapore, and made all Chinese schools switch to English as their main language of instruction and Chinese as the second language. However, in order to preserve the discipline, self confidence and Confucian values that instilled in students, Lee Kuan Yew had preserve the best nine of the Chinese schools under special assistance plan or SAP.

The SAP schools were provided with additional teachers to enable pupils to learn English and Chinese through special immersion programmes and successfully retained the formality, discipline and social courtesies of traditional Chinese schools. “ Speak Mandarin” campaign was launched for a month every year to encourage Chinese to use Mandarin instead of dialect. III) Rule and Law Law and order provide the framework for stability and development. Trained in law, Lee Kuan Yew had imbibed the principle of equality of all before the law for the proper functioning of a society.

Soon after becoming the prime minister in 1959, Lee Kuan Yew had abolished the jury system for all cases except murder. Lee Kuan Yew did not accept the theory that a criminal is a victim of the society. Lee Kuan Yew had found canning more effective than long prison terms and imposed it for crimes related to drugs, arms trafficking, rape, illegal entry into Singapore and vandalizing of public property. These measures had made for law and order in Singapore. Singapore was rated No. 1 by the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report 1997, as a country where “ organized crime does not impose significant costs on businesses”.

The international Institute for Management Development in their World Competitiveness Yearbook 1997 also rated Singapore No. 1 for security, “ where there is full confidence among people that their person and property is protected”. IV) Fighting on Traffic Congestion By 1975 traffic jams in Singapore is unbearable. Incomes were increasing and the number of cars registered yearly was rising exponentially. To cope this problem, Lee Kuan Yew settled on a scheme whereby a person had to bid for a certificate of entitlement (COE) to use a new car for 10 years which proved effective in limiting the yearly vehicle increase to 3 percent.

Lee also decided on underground mass rapid transmit (MRT) and introduced the electronic road pricing (ERP). Every vehicle now has a “smart card” at its windscreen, and the correct toll is automatically deducted every time it passes under gantries sited at strategic points in the city. Since the amount a person pays the government now depends upon how much he uses the roads, the optimum number of cars can be owned with the minimum of congestion. IV) Regional and International Policies and Relation under Lee Kuan Yew (I) ASEAN

Singapore had sought the understanding and support of its neighbours in enhancing stability and security in the region. Lee Kuan Yew had stated that ASEAN were banding together more for political objectives, stability and security other than ASEAN’s declared objectives on economic, social and cultural. Lee Kuan Yew had played a major role in ASEAN. When Australia tried to change its civil aviation rules in 1978, the Australians planned to excluded Singapore and other ASEAN capitals from airline intermediate stops.

Lee Kuan Yew concluded that Boeing 747s flying from Australia to Europe would need to stop either in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok en route to London. Lee Kuan Yew set out to keep Malaysians and the Thais on their side. Lee Kuan Yew wrote to Thai Prime Minister General Kriangshak in January 1979 that Australia’s move was “blatantly protectionist” and successfully gave concessions to both Thailand and Malaysia airlines. In the end, ASEAN’s solidarity won the fight and Singapore under Lee Kuan Yew’s effort finally made Australia agreed to let Singapore Airlines retain its capacity and outing into Australia and allowed the other ASEAN airlines to increase their capacities. Lee Kuan Yew also played an active role in Vietnamese occupation of Cambodia, which Lee Kuan Yew, tried hard to persuade and ensure the United States to remain interest in the region, and managed to persuade U. S to give modest aid to the two non-communist resistance forces. Malaysia and Singapore Since Singapore’s independence from the Federation of Malaysia in 1965, the bilateral relationship between Singapore and Malaysia has been described as symbiotic and interdependent.

There remains a high degree of economic and social inter-dependence between the two countries. However, mutual beneficial relationship has been marred by a number of problems that threaten this cooperation. 1) Water Issue Malaysia provides Singapore with about half its water and wants to renegotiate two agreements which date back to the 1960s. Malaysia has argued that it has a right to review the price of raw water under the current agreements while the Singapore Government has argued that Malaysia missed its chance to review prices in the mid-1980s.

Until now, both countries still failed to resolve this issue although many round of negotiations has been done. 2) Pulau Batu Putih (Pedra Branca) Issue Pulau Batu Putih is small island rocky island located 8 miles off the eastern coast of Johor and 28 miles off the eastern coast of Singapore. It is an island which Singapore has occupied and exercised full sovereignty over for more than 130 years since the 1840s without any protest from Malaysia. In 1979, Malaysia for the first time published a new map which included the island of Pedra Branca in its territory.

The dispute began in 1979 and was largely resolved by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2008, which finalized that Pedra Branca belonged to Singapore. Despite the differences in the approaches taken by both countries in resolving their bilateral issues, Malaysia and Singapore are still mutually dependent on each other. The role of the leaders of Malaysia and Singapore are crucial in determining the future relations between the two countries. Efforts to nurture good relations must continue and personal contacts involving leaders and government officials of both countries must continually be encouraged. II) China When Singapore separated from Malaysia, Lee Kuan Yew had announced that Singapore would trade and relationship with all countries including China. But, Singapore realized that it was undesirable and impossible for Singapore to establish diplomatic relations with People’s Republic of China because Singapore is situated in Southeast Asia, an area surrounded by some anti-Chinese country. Firstly, Singapore abstained from voting on the Albanian Resolution because of the tense relations between its neighbor and PRC at the years between 1966 and 1970.

Secondly, to maintain trading with the PRC, Singapore allows the Bank of China as the semi-official representative to continue its business in Singapore. In fact, Bank of China facilitated the trade between PRC and Singapore because the trade with PRC was quite important for Singapore. However, the relation with PRC was concerned, there are marred by the Bank of China incident in which the bank was prosecuted by Singapore by failing to obey a banking law in 1969. People’s Republic of China began to pursue an active foreign policy of befriending countries in the Third World.

The PRC had grown interest in the region by halt in attacking Singapore and Malaysia. It was also illustrated by exchange visit between PRC and some ASEAN countries. The exchange visits between Singapore and the PRC, notably two visits by Lee Kuan Yew to the PRC in 1976 and 1980 and one visit by Deng Xiaoping to Singapore in 1978. With this exchange visit, no doubt will also enable the two countries to have a better understanding of each other’s foreign and domestic policies.

Since the PRC had expressed its desire to have diplomatic ties with ASEAN, Singapore was holding back by making known to others that it will be the last ASEAN country to do so. Lee Kuan Yew said about the timing of Singapore’s diplomatic relations with the PRC because that 75 percent of Singapore’s population is Chinese who does not subordinate Singapore’s interest in foreign policy or domestic policies. Other than that, the Singapore still face the formidable task of building a national identity for its people may dilute Singapore’s interest in establishing an embassy in PRC.

According to the last census in 1970, 14. 8 percent of Chinese population came directly from China. The numbers of these people still have family ties with their kin’s in the China. So that during Deng Xiaoping’s visit to Singapore in 1978, he reiterate to Singapore about that the Chinese in Singapore were Singaporean and not overseas Chinese. Nevertheless, Singapore was more confidence in loyalty of the citizens and has relaxed visits to PRC for Singaporeans. This confidence was also expressed by Lee Kuan Yew when he said in 1977 that people who had gone to the PRC would come back and kiss the soil of Singapore.

During Lee Kuan Yew visit to China in 1980, he suggests that PRC if not instigated and incited the people to the revolution; it will tone down the support for the strain relations with ASEAN states in the future. Singapore was postponing the establishment of diplomatic ties with PRC and waiting for Indonesia. Once Indonesia re-establishes its ties with PRC, most likely the Singapore will follow suit. However Lee Kuan Yew had stated that China has the potential to realize its goal and become one of the major players in the world.

If it is not deflected from its present concentration on education and economic development, China could well be the second largest, if not the largest , trading nation in the world, with greater weight and voice in international affairs. (III) Japan During his years as prime minister, Lee Kuan Yew encourages Japan investment in Singapore. When Prime Minister Sato visited Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew had told him that publicly that Singaporeans had no inhibitions over Japan capital, technology and expertise, that Japan was set to lead the rest of Asia to greater industrialization.

Later, Singapore Economic Development Board had set an office in Tokyo and Lee Kuan Yew managed to use more than three year time to persuade Seiko to build a watch factory in Singapore. Like any other Asian countries, Lee Kuan Yew treated Japan as a role model to success. Lee Kuan Yew had asked Singapore’s Public Utilities Board officials to study how Japanese could be so successful in energy saving. Lee Kuan Yew also learnt from the Japanese the importance of increasing productivity through worker-manager cooperation, and a National Productivity Board (NPB) was formed in Singapore in the year 1972.

Lee Kuan Yew had sincere on the will of learning from the Japanese, in 1980 he had sent officials from his ministry for trade and industry to visit their counterparts in Japan’s formidable ministry for international trade and industry (MITI) which had create the course for Japan’s post-war industrial progress. MITI’s advice to Singapore’s officials that Singapore’s geographic position and environment to prepare for a possible role as a center of knowledge and information. Lee Kuan Yew took their advice to heart and redoubled Singapore’s emphasis on the teaching of sciences, mathematics and computers in all schools.

The whole government administration were computerized in order to set the pace for the private sectors. ( IV) United States During Lee Kuan Yew’s era, Singapore relations with the United States were pleasant. Trade with the United States had increased substantially especially with the latter as Singapore became a supply center for the United States in its increasing involvement in Indochina. By the 1980s, the United States had become Singapore’s most important trading partner and, as such, crucial to country’s welfare. Comparison between Lee Kuan Yew and Mahathir Mohamad

Lee Kuan Yew had successfully transformed Singapore, which was once a poor, decrepit colony, into a shining, rich and modern metropolis. Dr Henry A. Kissinger had addressed Lee Kuan Yew as a seminal figure of Asia and possesses a great interest in developing his country. There’s one man who possesses similar confidence and vision in developing his own nations. Mahathir Mohammad, who had been said as the match of Lee Kuan Yew. Although both leaders’ period as Prime Minister only overlapped only for 9 years (1981-1990), both are always being compared, and known as match for each other.

Over Mahathir’s 22 years as prime minister, the leader had patchy relations with Lee Kuan Yew. Both went authoritarian and want the best for their country. Despite the achievement of Lee Kuan Yew in transforming Singapore, Mahathir Mohamad also turned the Muslim-majority Southeast Asia country, Malaysia into one of the developing world’s most successful economies. Both leaders had undeniable sucess and contributions for their very own country. Both Lee Kuan Yew and Mahathir Mohammad value and admire Japan’s success.

These can be seen through Mahathir’s Look East Policy and Lee Kuan Yew’s memoir “The Singapore Stories” which praised Japan’s paradigm in catching up to the West. Both leaders tried to learn the Japanese and adopted similar measures wherever practical. However, in terms ofthe western countries especially the U. S, differences again was seen between two leaders. Lee Kuan Yew tended to gain good relations with western countries such as Australia, New Zealand, United States and Britain.

Lee Kuan Yew had aligned Singapore with west since Cold War and earned friendship with Henry A. Kissinger. According to Lee, regional solidarity and international could be gained through U. S and western Europe support. Now, Singapore developed diplomatic relationship with China, but the country was still befriending the west like old days. As for Mahathir Mohamad, it was a different story. Abrasive and outspoken, Mahathir emerged as the Third World champion and Islamic spokesman by condemning the West.

Mahathir’s record of curbing civil liberties and his antagonism to western diplomatic interests and economic policy made his relationships with the likes of the US, Britain and Australia difficult Even though as the biggest source of the country’s foreign investment, Mahathir has always been an outspoken critic of the United States regarding many issues including the APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation). Mahathir encourages modernization without taking to westernize. Even after his retirement, critics on western never stop, particularly on the United States.

For instance, he had urged the world’s 1. 3 billion Muslims to boycott Dutch products following the release of the anti-Islam movie Fitna by the Dutch politician Geert Wilders, it was reported on 30 March 2008. Both Lee Kuan Yew and Mahathir Mohamad had been the father of modernization of their country. Lee Kuan Yew had successfully turned Singapore from third world to first. Annual per capita income has grown from less than $1000 at the time of independence to nearly $30000 today. Singapore is the most successful and leading ahead among Southeast Asia countries.

Although not as improve as Singapore, Malaysia under Mahathir’s hand, had experienced rapid modernization and economic growth, and his government initiated a series of bold infrastructure projects. For his efforts to promote the economic development of the country, Mahathir has been granted the soubriquet of Bapa Pemodenan (Father of Modernization). Mahathir had successfully introduced Malaysia to the world. By raising living standards and winning international acclaim, he contributed to a sense of national identity, pride and confidence among ethnically diverse Malaysians.

Both Lee Kuan Yew and Mahathir Mohamed had similar vision in improving their countries. But due to different issues faced by both leaders, point of views diverse according to situation. Lee Kuan Yew who had been educated in Britain may adopted more western ways while for Mahathir who experienced Britain “divide and rule” policy, and seen Malay to be abandon behind during that time, possesses anger towards the west and sentiments for the Malays in order to lead them to better standard of living.

Lee Kuan Yew, as a firm man, although known as authoritarian from some views, had gathered around himself the most brilliant minds and gain his subordinates supports, such as Goh Keng Swee. He managed to clean Singapore’s government. Mahathir, being impatient and authoritarian, had jailed opponents, sacked rivals and undermined institutions as he pursued his obsession with development. Being ambitious, Mahathir built the KLIA airport, Petronas Twin Towers and also started Proton consistent with his “ Malaysia Boleh”( Malaysia can) propaganda.

Both leaders played an important role in their country’s development and their contribution could not be measured. Conclusion Singapore’s success always ties with Lee Kuan Yew. More than forty years ago, Lee Kuan Yew transformed what was a poor, decrepit colony into a shining, rich and modern metropolis. All time surrounded by hostile powers, with his brilliant, incisive intellect, he is one of the world’s most outspoken and respected statesman. For Lee Kuan Yew, every great achievement is a dream before it becomes reality, and his vision was a state that would not simply survive but prevail by excelling.

Superior intelligence, discipline and ingenuity would substitute for resources. Lee Kuan Yew summoned his compatriots to a duty they had never previously perceived: first to clean up their city, then to dedicate it to overcome the initial hostility of their neighbours and their own ethnic divisions by superior performance. The Singapore today is his testament. It is the high-tech leader of Southeast Asia. The contributions of Lee Kuan Yew could not be denied, this man had created what was known as impossible in the past and proved to the world, nothing would be impossible.

Attachments Attachments Premier Wen Jiabao shakes hands with Singaporean Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew during a meeting on Friday in Beijing at Zhongnanhai, the headquarters of China’s central authorities. The two sides discussed Sino-Singaporean relations and issues of common concern. Lee arrived in Beijing on Wednesday for an eight-day visit at the invitation of the Chinese Government. Lee Kuan Yew (middle) meets with U. S. Secretary of Defense William S. Cohen and Singapore’s Ambassador to the U. S. Chan Heng Chee in 2000.

Lee Kuan Yew (middle) meets with U. S. Secretary of Defense William S. Cohen and Singapore’s Ambassador to the U. S. Chan Heng Chee in 2000. Lee Kuan Yew and Tunku Abdul Rahman. Lee Kuan Yew and Tunku Abdul Rahman. Lee Kuan Yew and Yitzak Rabin Lee Kuan Yew and Yitzak Rabin Lee receives the Order of Friendship from Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on 15 November 2009 in Singapore. Lee receives the Order of Friendship from Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on 15 November 2009 in Singapore. Lee Kuan Yew and President Obama Lee Kuan Yew and President Obama

SINGAPORE (AFP) – Singapore’s founding father Lee Kuan Yew has urged local Muslims to “be less strict on Islamic observances” to aid integration and the city-state’s nation-building process. SINGAPORE (AFP) – Singapore’s founding father Lee Kuan Yew has urged local Muslims to “be less strict on Islamic observances” to aid integration and the city-state’s nation-building process. Lee Kuan Yew and Mahathir Mohamad Lee Kuan Yew and Mahathir Mohamad President George W. Bush welcomes Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore to the Oval Office Monday, Oct. 16,2006

President George W. Bush welcomes Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore to the Oval Office Monday, Oct. 16,2006 References Lee Kuan Yew. 1998. Memoirs of Lee Kuan Yew: The Singapore Story. Singapore. Times Editions Pte Ltd Lee Kuan Yew. 2000. Memoirs of Lee Kuan Yew: The Singpore Story ( 1965-2000) From Third World To First. Singapore. Times Media Private Limited N. Ganesan. (1999). Bilateral Tension in Post-Cold War ASEAN. Pacific Strategic Papers. Singapore: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS). p. 38 Singapore Development Policies and Trends, Edited by Peter S.

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