That Singapore is a survivor is corroborated by the fact, that even the drama of her independence happened twofold! For the first time, when released from the bondage of British colonisation in 1959. For the second, after an involuntary merger with the Federation of Malaysia was terminated following a phase of political and racial unrest. Singapore finally gained her well-deserved sovereignty in 1965.
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of her reinstalled freedom, the city throws a gargantuan party lasting the entire year. Considering, that a state is made up of its people, it seems a logical consequence for Singapore to share her Golden Jubilee with her truly diverse ethnic community by inviting them to help plan and organise a series of festivities. After all it was their concerted efforts that made Singapore’s skyrocketing ascent possible. The official body guiding procedures and founded especially for that purpose, is the Singapore50 (SG50) Steering Committee. It comprises representatives from public, private and people sectors. Bearing in mind the multi-cultural denizenship Singapore’s fabric is woven from, an exciting array of vibrant events is sure to rain down on locals and visitors alike. A small choice of what is on the agenda is laid out below. The full range is here: www.Singapore50.sg
Video: Singapore on its road to independence. This video is a creative commons. For credit, please vide bottom of page.
Ethnic structure of the Singaporean population of 5,26 million (over 648 sq.kms):
Chinese: 74.2%, Malay: 13.3%, Indian: 9.2%, Eurasians and Asians of different origins combined: 3.3%. Plus expatriates from North America, Australia, Europe, China, Japan and India.
The four official languages are English, Chinese, Malay and Tamil, with Malay being the national language. English is used for business, the government and in schools.
As part of the SG50 celebrations, “Singapore: Inside Out” will shine the spotlight on creative talents who have gained recognition and acclaim for their works. It is an initiative by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and is supported by agencies such as the National Arts Council and DesignSingapore Council. Source: Zarch Collaboratives
Self-portraits of the People: A cumulation of self-portraits by Singaporeans from all walks of life
Source: Designed by FARM Architects, image courtesy of National Gallery Singapore.
The Jubilee Walk connects Singapore elements of the past, present and future. It begins at the National Museum, continues to the Civic District, including the Parliament House and Empress Place along the Singapore River, and the Esplanade Park and Padang with former City Hall and former Supreme Court.
Source: Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth.
The header image is a screenshot taken from the video above.
All images plus the video are creative commons. Free publication is authorised.
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/