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Looking Back - Political Milestones Leading to the Birth of the Republic
Making Friends and Defending Our Sovereignty
The Story of an Economic Miracle
Caring for the Nation
Living Together in Harmony |
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POLITICAL MILESTONES LEADING TO THE BIRTH OF THE REPUBLIC
Source: IWM
Singapore returned to British rule after 44 months of Japanese rule. The British flag was hoisted once again on 12 September 1945.
Source: MICA
Post-war Singapore saw itself enmeshed in a volatile political environment following political awakening in the process of decolonisation. Towards this, several political parties were formed, among them the Malayan Democratic Union (1945), Progressive Party (1947), Labour Front (1954) and the People’s Action Party (PAP).
Singapore's negotiations with London for self-government started in 1956 under David Marshall and Lim Yew Hock’s administrations, and finally achieved success in 1959. The PAP formed Singapore's first fully elected government following its victory in the May 1959 General Elections.
Source: SPH, The Straits Times
Source: MICA
A merger with Malaya was thought to be the solution for Singapore's survival following the latter's breakaway from the British. On 16 September 1963, Singapore became part of Malaysia – a new nation comprising the Federation of Malaya, Singapore, Sabah and Sarawak.
Source: SPH, The Straits Times
Source: Singapore Government Gazette, 1965
In the 20-odd months after the Merger, tensions arose due to differing political and economic expectations. The Confrontation (Konfrontasi) mounted by Indonesia and increasingly turbulent racial riots and administrative red tape hampered infrastructural development, leading to the decision to dissolve the Merger. On 9 August 1965, Singapore was declared a sovereign, independent Republic.
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