SOAS Research Online

Abstract

The main aim of this study is to examine the urban and related population problems of Singapore; to analyse the demographic structure, social and economic characteristics of the population and to describe the system of housing and urban renewal schemes. An attempt is also made to describe the various interrelationships between the public housing development, the urban renewal and the population problems in Singapore. The main four findings of study are as follows. First, under immigration control and the Singapore National Family Planning and Birth Control Policy it is hoped possible that the population will be settled down into a more stable population and the two-child family will be accepted as the social norm. Secondly, in comparing the present housing conditions and development with those of the past it is clear that before 1960 most of the housing for low-income groups consisted of crowded tenements in Chinatown; the middle income groups were typified by the Singapore Improvement Trust flats in Tiong Bahru and Alexandra Road; and both these groups were living in single-storey to triple-storey buildings. After 1960, most of the public housing has been multi-storey flats, particularly for the lower-income groups of the population. Thirdly, Singapore's current dynamic urban renewal programme is being promoted against this background, and the city skyline is being dramatically transformed. Finally, it is hoped that the success of Singapore's multi-racial experience will have a contribution to make to all multi-racial societies, especially in Southeast Asia.