Singapore Facts and Google Maps

Introduction

Singapore was initially established as a trading settlement by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles in 1819, linking the southernmost tip of the Malay peninsula with a causeway. Over the years, it has become a bustling metropolis and one of Asia’s most important commercial centers. The city-state’s strategic location at the crossroads of international trade routes has helped to cement its position as a key hub for global commerce, attracting businesses and investors from around the world.

Singapore is renowned for its efficient infrastructure, business-friendly policies, and highly skilled workforce, making it an ideal destination for companies seeking to expand their regional operations. Due to its robust financial services sector, state-of-the-art technology, and advanced transportation systems, Singapore is a thriving center for innovation and entrepreneurship. It is a popular choice for startups and entrepreneurs looking to launch new ventures. Singapore’s success as a major commercial hub can be attributed to its unwavering commitment to innovation, excellence, and strategic planning.

Jump to Introduction, Geography, Climate, People & Society, Economy, Insight, Google Maps, Facts, and Did You Know about Singapore. Or visit the driving directions page for routing instructions.

Geography

The natural vegetation on Singapore Island has been dramatically altered throughout its history. Much of the island’s original flora was cleared for agriculture in the early 19th century and replaced by urban development. Today, only a small fraction of the island’s natural vegetation remains intact, mostly in remnant pockets of primary and secondary rainforests preserved within nature reserves and parks.

The smaller islands surrounding Singapore are also characterized by dense vegetation and swampy jungles. These islands have remained relatively untouched due to their limited accessibility and lack of development. However, in recent years, there have been efforts to promote ecotourism and conservation on these islands, with some areas set aside as protected nature reserves.

Despite the challenges posed by urbanization and development, ongoing initiatives aim to preserve and restore Singapore’s natural environment. The government has implemented policies to promote sustainable development and green spaces within the city, such as creating the Gardens by the Bay and redeveloping the Southern Ridges. Through conservation efforts, education, and community engagement, it is hoped that Singapore can continue to thrive as a vibrant and sustainable city while preserving its unique natural heritage.

Climate

Singapore’s climate can be described as equatorial, characterized by hot and humid conditions with high levels of rainfall throughout the year. The country experiences consistently high temperatures, with average daily temperatures ranging from 25 to 31 degrees Celsius (77 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit). The humidity levels are also typically high, with relative humidity often exceeding 80 percent.

The frequent rainfall in Singapore results from the country’s location near the equator, which results in the formation of convective clouds that produce thunderstorms and heavy rain. The wettest months are usually November to January, with an average monthly rainfall of around 250-300 mm (10-12 inches). The driest months are typically June to August, with an average monthly rainfall of around 150-200 mm (6-8 inches).

Despite the challenges posed by the hot and humid climate, Singapore has implemented various measures to mitigate its impact on daily life. These include the widespread use of air conditioning, the provision of shaded walkways and green spaces, and the implementation of water management strategies such as rainwater harvesting and drainage systems. In addition, various cultural and recreational activities are organized indoors to avoid exposure to extreme weather conditions.

Overall, Singapore’s equatorial climate presents challenges and opportunities, with various measures in place to help residents and tourists manage the heat and rainfall while enjoying all the country has to offer.

People & Society

Singapore has a diverse population, with most of its residents of Chinese descent. This includes both the well-established English-speaking Straits Chinese community and more recent immigrants from China. In addition, there are significant populations of Malays, Indians, and expatriates worldwide.

The median income in Singapore varies by ethnic group, with Indian households having the highest median income and Malay households having the lowest median income. The government has implemented various measures to reduce income inequality and promote social mobility, including education and training programs, housing subsidies, and healthcare initiatives.

Singapore’s population is also aging rapidly, with a low birth rate and increasing life expectancy. The government has implemented cash incentives and longer maternity leave to address this issue to encourage couples to have more children. In addition, initiatives such as the Silver Support Scheme and the Pioneer Generation Package financially support elderly citizens.

Singaporean society is highly regulated, with official campaigns to improve public behavior and maintain social order. The country has strict laws governing areas such as littering, smoking, and vandalism, and punishment for violations can be severe. However, these regulations also contribute to Singapore’s reputation as a safe and clean city with a low crime rate and high living standards.

Overall, Singapore’s diverse population, aging demographics, and highly regulated society pose challenges and opportunities for development. The government’s proactive approach to addressing these issues through innovative policies and initiatives has helped Singapore achieve one of the highest living standards in the world.

The Economy

Singapore’s robust economy is built on a foundation of success as an entrepôt and center for high-tech industries. The country’s geographic location at the crossroads of key trade routes has enabled it to become a major transportation hub, facilitating the flow of goods and services throughout Southeast Asia and beyond. Singapore has also established itself as a leader in high-tech industries such as electronics and pharmaceuticals, with a focus on research and development and innovation.

In particular, Singapore has made significant strides in biotechnology, investing heavily in research and development to develop new treatments and therapies. The country’s strong commitment to innovation and collaboration has established world-class research institutions and partnerships with leading universities and companies worldwide.

Despite its economic success, Singapore needs help with its reliance on imported food, energy, and water. The country has few natural resources and relies heavily on imports to meet its needs. This vulnerability was highlighted during the worst-ever recession that hit Singapore between 2008-2009, primarily caused by the global financial crisis and a downturn in the country’s key export markets.

The government has implemented various measures to secure Singapore’s energy and water supplies to address these challenges, including investments in alternative energy sources and water conservation initiatives. Additionally, the country has diversified its economy in recent years, expanding into new industries and markets to reduce its dependence on any one sector or region.

Overall, Singapore’s thriving economy and leadership in high-tech industries have contributed to its status as a major player in the global marketplace. However, the country’s reliance on imports and vulnerability to external factors highlights the need for continued innovation and adaptation to ensure long-term sustainability.

Insight

Chewing gum was indeed banned in Singapore from 1992 to 2004. The government implemented the ban in response to issues related to littering and vandalism, as people would often dispose of their gum improperly, causing damage to public spaces and inconveniencing others.

Under the ban, importing, selling, or manufacturing chewing gum in Singapore was illegal, with few exceptions, such as therapeutic gum used for dental and medicinal purposes. The government also imposed strict fines and penalties on those caught violating the ban.

The ban on chewing gum was a controversial issue in Singapore and internationally, with some arguing that it was overly strict and infringed upon individual freedoms. However, the government maintained that the ban was necessary to maintain the country’s reputation as a clean and orderly society.

In 2004, the ban was partially lifted to allow the sale of certain types of chewing gum for therapeutic purposes, such as nicotine gum and gum for dental hygiene. However, the import and sale of regular chewing gum continued to be restricted.

Today, chewing gum can be purchased in Singapore from pharmacies and registered dental clinics, and it is not subject to the same restrictions as before. However, the country still strongly emphasizes maintaining a clean and tidy environment, with strict regulations governing behaviors such as littering and smoking in public spaces.

Google Maps

Facts

Name: Singapore (Republic of Singapore), local name: Republic of Singapore
Languages: English (official language) 48.3%, Mandarin (official language) 29.9%, other Chinese dialects (includes Hokkien, Cantonese, Teochew, Hakka) 8.7%, Malay (official language) 9.2%, Tamil (official language) 2.5%, other 1.4%
ISO code: sg, internet: .sg
Capital city: Singapore, GPS: 1 17 N, 103 51 E
Time: UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time) (no daylight saving time)
Population: 5,975,383 (2023 estimate) (Singapore / Singaporean(s))
Urban population: 100% (2021) – 5.992 million, Singapore (capital city) (2021)
Location: Southeastern Asia, islands between Malaysia and Indonesia. Singapore is a Southeastern Asian country. You may find 19 other countries on this continent.
Coordinates: 1 22 N, 103 48 E
Bordering countries: N/A
Land area: 709.2 sq km
Water area: 10 sq km
Total area: 719 sq km – Slightly more than 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC.
Terrain: Low-lying, gently undulating central plateau
Highest point: Bukit timah 166 m
Lowest point: Singapore Strait 0 m
Natural hazards: Flash floods.
National holiday(s): National Day, 9 August (1965)

Did you know about Singapore?

Singapore is one of the only three surviving city-states in the world, along with Monaco and Vatican City.
Singapore has the highest concentration of millionaires globally, with almost 1 in 6 households having a net worth of at least US$1 million.
Chewing gum is banned in Singapore, except for gum, for therapeutic purposes.
Singapore’s “Garden City” vision aims to transform the city into a lush, green environment with at least one park or space within 400 meters of every home.
Singapore is home to the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool, located at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel and spanning over 1.3 hectares.