Singapore, originally known as Temasek in the 14th century, began as an outpost for the Sumatran empire of Srīvijaya, primarily inhabited by fishermen and pirates. Located at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, its strategic location made it a prime hub for trade.
Singapore became a British colony in 1824, and by 1826, it was governed as part of the Straits Settlements. The Japanese Empire invaded Singapore during World War II, and the country endured a harsh occupation from 1942 to 1945. The post-war period saw significant political change, including transitioning from British rule to self-governance. It joined Malaysia briefly in 1963 but became an independent republic in 1965 due to political differences.
In recent years, particularly under the leadership of Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore has become a global economic powerhouse renowned for its innovation, technology and strong economy.
Singapore’s culture is as dynamic as its history, shaped by Chinese, Malay, Indian, Arabian and Western influences. This multiculturalism is most evident in its cuisine – best experiences in the hawker halls – languages, festivals and vibrant neighbourhoods like Little India, Chinatown and Kampong Glam. English is the lingua franca, but Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil are also widely spoken.
Despite its rapid growth and urbanization, Singapore remains committed to preserving its traditions and embracing a balance of modernity and cultural heritage.
