I am thankful that

a. I am blessed with a wonderful group of students who can think.

b. I am blessed with students who are hardworking

c. they believe in themselves and place their trust in an Ess.

Most important of all I am thankful to God that He gave us the wisdom to be able to focus on the right thing in life.


Ad maiorem Dei gloriam

Any comments?
Please tag or post thank you

Final Notes from the Ess

We have done our best. Remember this is a THINKING paper. Stop and think before you even start to write.

What happen if all you study did not come out?

Use common sense Do NOT Panic

What happen if all you study come out?

Panic

For you will be tempted to show off and tell the examiner how much you know and so will not stduy the question and answer the question. You will aslo spend too much time on one question and no time for the rest.

Remember this

Paper start at 2.30 p.m.

2.35 p.m. to start 1 a

2.45 p.m. to start 1 b

2.55 p.m. to start 1c

3.05 p.m. to start 1d

By 3.15 p.m. must start SEQ (a)

By 3.45 p.m. start the second SEQ (b)

Some last minute defination

1. Cold War

The Cold War refers to the political, ideological and economic rivarlry that emerged after World War II betwen US and its allies and the Soviet Union and its allies.

It is one of the reason for the causes of conflict. e.g. will be the Korea War bettwen North and South Korea. (Can be used for causes for conflict Textbook. pg 163)

2. The COD Wars

The Cod Wars, also called the Iceland Cod Wars were a series of confrontations in the 1970s between the United Kingdom and Iceland regarding fishing rights in the North Atlantic. The name of the conflict may be derived from a pun on the term "Cold War", possibly via the British tabloid press (Can be used for causes for conflict Textbook. pg 161)

3. Peacekeeping Force

Peacekeeping, as defined by the United Nations, is "a way to help countries torn by conflict create conditions for sustainable peace."[1] It is distinguished from both peacebuilding and peacemaking.
Peacekeepers monitor and observe peace processes in post-conflict areas and assist ex-combatants in implementing the peace agreements they may have signed. Such assistance comes in many forms, including confidence-building measures, power-sharing arrangements, electoral support, strengthening the rule of law, and economic and social development. Accordingly UN peacekeepers (often referred to as Blue Beret because of their light blue berets or helmets) can include soldiers, civilian police officers, and other civilian personnel.

4. Armed Conflict

War and armed conflict are often treated as synonymous terms. War can be describedas the extreme form of armed conflict and usually takes place between states. Armedconflict implies the pursuit of objectives through violence. The Red Cross definition ofarmed conflict is: “any difference between two states leading to the intervention of themembers of the armed forces is an armed conflict.”

Read the following article and see if you can find the principles of good governance.

Marina Barrage

Singapore's Latest Water Icon

Built across the mouth of the Marina Channel, the Marina Barrage creates Singapore’s 15th reservoir, and the first in the heart of the city. With a catchment area of 10,000 hectares, or one-sixth the size of Singapore, the Marina catchment is the island’s largest and most urbanised catchment. Together with two other new reservoirs, the Marina Reservoir will boost Singapore’s water catchment from half to two-thirds of the country's land area.

The Marina Barrage is the result of Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew's vision nearly two decades ago when he envisaged damming the mouth of the Marina Channel to create a freshwater reservoir. (What principles of good governance is this?)

3-in-1 Benefits
Water Supply
Flood Control
Lifestyle Attraction

Water Supply
The Marina Barrage is a 350-meter wide dam built across the Marina Channel to keep out seawater, forming Singapore’s first reservoir in the city and 15th reservoir. Marina Reservoir combines with the future Punggol and Serangoon reservoirs will increase Singapore's water catchment areas from half to two-thirds of Singapore's land areas.

With the barrage in place, the Marina Basin will turn into a body of freshwater through natural flushing in one two to years. The freshwater will then be treated using advanced membrane technology before consumption.

Local catchment water is one of the Four National Taps, with the other three being imported water, NEWater and desalinated water.

As one of the pillars of local water supply, Marina Reservoir will meet more than 10% of Singapore’s current water demand.

Flood Control

The Marina Barrage is part of a comprehensive flood control scheme to alleviate flooding in the low-lying areas in the city such as Chinatown, Boat Quay, Jalan Besar and Geylang.

During heavy rain, the series of nine crest gates at the dam will be activated to release excess storm water into the sea when the tide is low.
In the case of high tide, giant pumps which are capable of pumping an Olympics-size swimming pool per minute will drain excess storm water into the sea.

Lifestyle Attraction

As the water in the Marina Basin is unaffected by the tides, its water level will be kept constant all year round. This is ideal for all kinds of recreational activities such as boating, windsurfing, kayaking and dragonboating etc.

answer: Anticipate change and stay relevant. Principle of being forward looking.

Note from the ess

Dear students,

For SBQ: Remember to READ ALL Sources before you start to answer the Questions.Once 45 minutes is up you must start SEQ.Each SEQ is 20 min. Underline the factors and give issue.

I have written many suggested answers.
The worst you can do is to remember and learnt by heart these answers.

You must just read and understand why i choose one factor/reason or causes above the other.

You are free to disagree with me and choose other factors/reason or causes as long as you can give a reason why your choice is better then mine.

You will be shock at how short my answers are. Remember you have 20 minutes for each SEQ and you must give yourself time to THINK. So what the examiner wants is your you to show that you can THINK.. So P.E.E.L. Make your point. explain your point, provide an example for your point and most important of all LINK back to the issue.

For each question, I have showed that I link back to the issue.I also write down
Issue:
Given Factor
Alternative Factor

So that I will not be out of point.

Remember P.E.E.L. for SEQ

For SBQ.
1. for inference question ICE the POA.
2. Ying Yang for Usefulness, proof and reliability
3. Weighing scale for compare and contrast

Study this SBQ http://comhumss.blogspot.com/2008/10/sbq-on-un.html which i have identified the ICE,PAO YingYang and weighing scale.

Remember purpose words
1. to inspire, to motivate, to persuade,
2. to scold, to argue, to discredit, to make fun, to poke fun
3. to draw attention to, to explain, to informed

Outcome words
1.To reinforce the writer's view
2. to change audience's view
3. to achieve his purpose of....
4. to make audience support his point of view
5. to make audienec take action
Good luck.


















Good luck to all the high flyer. I have enjoyed most teaching this year of Sec 5. They are motivated, smart hardworking and a joy to teach

Issue: Effectiveness of United Nations in carrying out its aims

Study the sources carefully, and then answer all the questions.

You may use any of the sources to help you answer the questions, in addition to those sources which you are told to use. In answering the questions you should use your knowledge of the topic to help you interpret and evaluate the sources.

1 (a) Study Source A.


What does Source A tells you about UN's commitment to its aims? Explain your answer. [5]

(b) Study Source B.
How useful is Source B in aiding your understanding of the effectiveness of UN? Explain your answer. [7]

(c) Study Source C.
Does Source C prove that UN has the support of the international community? Explain your answer. [6]

(d) Study Source D and E.
Evaluate the differences between Source D and E. [7]


Issue: Effectiveness of United Nations in carrying out its aims



Background
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are to facilitate cooperation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress, human rights, and achieving world peace. The UN was founded in 1945 after World War II to stop wars between countries and to provide a platform for dialogue.
There are currently 192 member states, including nearly every recognized independent state in the world. From its headquarters on international territory in New York City, the UN and its specialized agencies decide on substantive and administrative issues in regular meetings held throughout the year. The organization is divided into administrative bodies, primarily:
The General Assembly (the main deliberative assembly);
The Security Council (decides certain resolutions for peace and security);
The Economic and Social Council (assists in promoting international economic and social cooperation and development);
The Secretariat (provides studies, information, and facilities needed by the UN);
The International Court of Justice (the primary judicial organ).
Additional bodies deal with the governance of all other UN System agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).



Source A An abstract from an interview with Lord Robertson, Chairman of the Commission for Global Road Safety, which proposed a global ministerial conference to United Nations.




I am delighted that the UN has today recognised the scale of human suffering and economic loss caused by road traffic deaths and injuries [by approving the proposal]. Now we must ensure that the UN Conference is not just another talking shop, but secures real commitments and takes real action to reverse the tide of global road deaths.




Source B An Abstract from The Times, “Bush deploys hawk as new UN envoy”, dated 8th March 2005

Bush nomination of John Bolton as US Ambassador to the United Nations is seen by many as an aggressive move. Mr Bolton once said:“There is no such thing as the United Nations. There is only the international community, which can only be led by the only remaining superpower, which is the United States." He also stated that "The [UN] Secretariat building in New York has 38 stories. If you lost ten stories today, it wouldn't make a bit of difference."

Source C An abstract of a report on a public poll conducte.d for BBC World Service by international polling company GlobeScan published on World Public Opinion’s website dated 24 January 2006

In 30 of the 32 countries polled, a majority (23 countries) rated the United Nations as having a positive influence. On average 59 percent rated the United Nations as having a positive influence, while just 16 percent rated it as having a negative influence.
However, among the 19 countries that were polled in December 2004 and again in the current poll, the percentage giving the U.N. a positive rating is down an average of 10 points.

Source D An abstract from an article taken from a blog in response to the controversies surrounding UN

Haitian underage girls are now paying for taking help from the UN. They have been sexually exploited by Sri Lankan UN peace-keepers for less than $1. Haitian feminists have now woken up to the problem and are demanding inquires by the UN. Olga Benoit of Haitian Women’s Solidarity recalls another case involving two Pakistani soldiers about two years ago. These men in uniform had raped a mentally challenged woman whom they were supposed to protect.
Poor girls in this horribly impoverished nation are just cattle for both Haitian men and their foreign protectors. Excessively patriarchal Haiti chooses to look the other way when girls are exploited. After all, a dollar is better than no money at all.

Source E Brazilian UN soldiers help a handicapped child as they distribute food and a program of music to celebrate peace in the Cite Soleil slum of Port-au-Prince, 25 April 2007

Try to check the answer after you have done the question.

Study Source A
What does Source A tells you about UN’s commitment to its aims? Explain your answer. (5)

(Note from the Ess: This set of answer only have ICE Inference Content and Explanation. If you got two ICE it is o.k.)

Source A tells me that UN is committed to its aims of fostering cooperation in international law, economic development, social progress.(Inference) Based on Source A, “UN today recognised the scale of human suffering and economic loss caused by approving the proposal”(Content). This shows that when called for action by the global community, UN will take immediate actions. Hence, showing that UN is committed to its cause. (Explanation)

In addition, from Source A, “UN conference is not just another talking shop, but secures real commitments and takes real action to reverse the tide of global road deaths.”(Content) This shows that UN does try to involve leaders in the world to work together in solving global issues. (Inference +explanation)

Source A shows that UN may sometime falter in carrying out its programme to achieve its aims.(Inference) From Source A, ““UN conference is not just another talking shop, but secures real commitments and takes real action to reverse the tide of global road deaths.”(Content) This shows that sometimes decisions made were not carried out by the member countries. (Explanation)

(Note from the Ess. You can also ICE the POA which means you infer the purpose and get the content and explanation to support your inference. Do not forget the outcome)


The speaker's purpose in saying that he was delighted that the UN has recognised the scale of human suffering is trying to hint (Purpose words) that the UN did not recognised the human suffering in the past. It is said in an ironic tone. He wants the conference to be a real effective (outcome) one instead of "another talking shop" as he does not seems to have enough faith in the UN. He hope that he can" secures real commitments and takes real action to reverse the tide of global road deaths." Therefore Source A tells me that the UN is not totally committed to its aims.

(b) Study Source B
How useful is Source B in aiding your understanding of the effectiveness of UN? Explain your answer. [7]

Yes. Source B is useful in aiding my understanding of the effectiveness of UN. Source B suggests that one of the reasons for UN ineffectiveness was the commitment and support from member countries. From Source B, “Bush nomination of John Bolton to United Nations is seen by many as an aggressive move”. This suggests that one of the problems which UN faces is the support of its member countries. This information suggests that the some of its member countries has its own agenda when sending envoys to UN and they may not be supportive of UN’s stance.

This is further supported by information from Source C, “among 19 countries polled in December 2004 and again in the current poll, the percentage giving the UN a positive rating is down” Since more countries are seeing UN as having a less positive influence. This suggests that they would be less supportive of UN’s actions and decisions. This concurs with that of Source B. Hence, Source B is useful to my understanding of UN limitations.

However, Source B has its limitations. Source B shows comments and reaction from one source. It does not represent the reaction from all member countries. Source B does not represent the extend of UN’s problems.

(Note from the Ess Notice, the Ying Yang (useful and not useful aspect) +cross reference) You must have these three elements to score full marks.

(c)Study Source C. Does Source C prove that UN has the support of the international community? Explain your answer.

(Explain why it does not prove)

No, Source C does not prove that UN has the support of the international community. From Source C, “average 59 percent rated the United Nations as having a positive influence, while just 16 percent rated it as having a negative influence”. This shows that out of the countries polled, there are some which thinks that UN has a negative influence. If these countries do not see UN in a positive light they would be less likely to be supportive of what UN does.

(Cross ref to support)

In addition, cross-referenced against Source D, “Haitian underage girls are now paying for taking help from the UN. They have been sexually exploited by Sri Lankan UN peace-keepers” This shows that UN peacekeepers are not helping the people in need. This agrees with Source C in saying that there are countries which does not see UN as a positive influence. Hence, Source C is unreliable to prove that UN has the support of the international community.

(Explain why it does prove)

However, we can trust Source C that it does prove that UN is getting the support from the international community. As Source C is a factual source, with neutral tone. It does not take side of the UN. It is a report by an international polling company which has no stake in UN. The purpose of the source is to inform the public about the popularity of UN.

(d) Study Source D and E
Evaluate the differences between Source D and E. [7]

Source D and E are similar in identifying the role of the UN peacekeeping troops. (Comparing statement) From Source D, “raped a mentally challenged woman whom they were supposed to protect” and from Source E showing UN soldiers helping a boy by carrying him. Both sources inform us that UN’s role in the countries that they were deployed to is to help the people.

Source D and E are different in assessing the service rendered by UN troops. (comparing statement)

Source D shows that UN peacekeeping troops were a negative addition to the people. From Source D, “they have been sexually exploited by Sri Lankan UN peace-keepers”, these men in uniform had raped a mentally challenged woman whom they were supposed to protect” This shows that instead of helping the people in need, UN soldiers are adding to their misery.

On the other hand, Source E shows that UN soldiers are a positive addition to the people. From Source E, UN soldiers were carrying a handicapped boy. This shows that UN soldiers were doing good in the place that they are helping. Hence, Source D and E are different.

Source D and E are different in their purpose by depicting UN soldiers in different light. (Comparing statement)

Source D’s purpose in to vilify UN soldiers by discussing the ill-behaviours of UN soldiers, the author hopes to highlight the negative behaviours of the soldiers in hope the UN take action against such acts.

On the other hand, Source E is glorifying the works of UN troops by showing UN soldiers doing a good job in the country they are helping. The photographer may be attempting to gather more support for UN.

(Note from the Ess. Notcie the structure of the answer. You have a comparing statement then you find ifnormation in Source D and Source C to support the comparing statement.)

What to focus for the exam?
First of all these are the theme that will not come out as it has already come out in 2007.

1. Venice (Theme 6)
2. Sustainable development (Theme 5)
3. Population.(Theme 4)

So it is safe to focus on the following theme as it has not come out in 2007.
1. Merger and Separation (Theme 1)
2.Sri Lanka (Theme 2)
3.Conflict and Cooperation (Theme 3)

But you must study everything within these three theme. No short cut.

For additional insurance do the following
1.Good governance (Theme 5)
2.Singapore Industrialisation (Theme 4)
3. Housing in Singapore (Theme 4)

Should be safe. Good luck.

Click the words on the left hand side of the blog to go to particular question.
Detail syllabus.

Theme 1. The Making Of A Homeland
The emotional bonding to one’s country comes with the understanding of how a young
nation is born as a result of the struggles, determination and commitment of the country’s pioneering fathers.

• Introduction: an overview of colonialism, nationalism and independence in Southeast Asia (Not examined)

• In and out of Malaysia (1963-1965)
- Political and economic reasons for merger
- Political, economic and racial reasons for separation with emphasis on the concept of a Malaysian Malaysia based on equality of all races
- Independence and nationhood


Theme 2. HARMONY AND DISCORD

Unity and Disunity
It is possible to live together in harmony despite differences in race, language and religion.
However, it is important to be relentlessly vigilant against the forces of divisiveness in a multiracial and multi-cultural society.

Discord and disunity with examples of the following countries
• Sri Lanka
• Northern Ireland

The following issues will be discussed for both Sri Lanka and Northern Ireland:
- Different causes of conflicts among ethnic and religious groups, e.g. colonialism, competition for economic resources, breakdown of a strong national government
- Manifestations of conflicts among ethnic and religious groups, e.g. extensive fighting between groups; sporadic attacks against the national government; conflicts between ethnic groups leading to foreign intervention

Theme 3. CONFLICT AND COOPERATION
Diplomacy and Deterrence Events and developments happening outside Singapore’s
borders can affect the lives of the people on this island.

• Conflicts among nations
- Causes of international conflicts

• Prevention and resolution of conflicts among nations:
- Diplomacy: bilateral relations with other countries, membership in international organisations, such as ASEAN and UN, social/cultural and economic cooperation among nations
- Deterrence: military self-reliance through either a professional army or a citizen armed force
- Example of Singapore’s two-pronged approach of diplomacy and deterrence

Theme 4 GROWTH OF NATIONS

Development Strategies
A nation can stand on it own by careful planning to optimise the allocation and use of physical and human resources. Reliance on its own resourcefulness will enable a nation to contribute to the world community.

Planning and Development

Planning for economic development and growth
- Case study of Singapore:
o Importance of planning in Singapore(physical characteristics such as limited resources, land)
o Industrialisation and industrial restructuring: role of EDB, JTC, NTUC

Planning for social development
Case study of Singapore: overview of public services with special reference to
- Education
- changes to education in Singapore and the response to changing goals and needs
- Example of Switzerland: the role of education in the economic and social development of Switzerland
- Health care Services
o changes to health services in Singapore and the response to changing goals and needs
o Example of Britain: trends towards privatisation in the provision of public services
- Population planning
o Case study of Singapore: population policies and planning for an ageing population (self-reliance versus state welfarism)
- Public Housing
o Case study of Singapore: role of HDB in public housing

Theme 5 .LOOKING AHEAD

Going Global, Staying Centred

Our track record of succeeding against the odds shows that as a people we can have a bright future if we continue to take a forward looking and practical approach to facing challenges. Besides, we need to ensure that sufficient vital resources are available to future generations of Singaporeans.

Constraints to further growth (regional and global factors) and sustainable development
- Constraints to further growth
o Economic e.g. competition from other countries
o Socio-political e.g. instability, war
o Environmental e.g. pollution
- Sustainable development
o Definition of sustainable development and what it means to Singapore
o Economic strategies for sustainable development: e.g. enhancing economic competitiveness through skills upgrading, IT, R&D, regionalisation and globalization
o Environmental strategies for sustainable development: e.g. environmental and resource management

Good governance and sustainable development: Case study of Singapore
- Principles of good governance – a pragmatic, meritocratic, fair, clean and transparent government
- Socio-political strategies for sustainable development: e.g. forging of social cohesion of multi-ethnic population, good diplomacy, forward-looking and incorruptible civil service


Theme 6. CHALLENGE AND CHANGE

Transformation of a Great City- State
There were city-states in history that rose from obscurity to
splendour and power, and which eventually went into decline. Even
great city-states, which were centres of prosperity and culture,
can fall prey to weaknesses and complacency within the system.

Do you agree that foreign intervention is more important than economic impact on Sri Lankan government’s desire for peace agreement? Explain your answer

Foreign intervention by India helped to promote peace in Sri Lanka. But this is not the only reason. Economic impact of the conflict is very negative and has caused loss of foreign investment.This has also contributed to the Sri Lanka government's desire for peace.

The Sinhalese-Tamil conflict in Sri Lanka attracted the attention of its neighbour, India. It sent its Foreign Minister to Sri Lanka to mediate in a dialogue between the Sinhalese and the Tamils.

India’s intervention was a serious violation of Sri Lanka’s sovereignty. This is because Sri Lanka is an independent country and she had been forced into certain actions by India against its own wishes, showing that it is not totally in control of its own future. For example, in 1987, the Sri Lankan government was forced by India to sign a peace accord with the LTTE. When the peace accord was broken because the LTTE did not surrender their arms, the Indian government ordered Indian troops into Sri Lanka for peacekeeping. This move resulted in even more violence in the country and prolonged the armed conflict. The Sri Lankan government also felt that it has lost complete independence to act on its own, and thus cease to be in control of its own fate.

All these consequences could have caused the Sri Lankan government to deepen its desire for peace agreement as it hope to regain it independence. In its intervention, the Indian government has also sent its Foreign Minister to Sri Lanka to mediate in the dialogue between the Sinhalese and the Tamils. Although the dialogue failed to end the conflict, it has helped to promote peace by forcing the two sides to discuss their problems.

In the riots and armed struggles caused by the conflict, many people are killed. Those killed are usually breadwinners of families, plunging them into poverty and starvation. The ensuing riots and terrorism also resulted in the destruction of factories and businesses, effectively causing even more unemployment. This vicious cycle of poverty is made worse by the loss of investments from other countries as in times of instability, investors from other countries may not have the confidence to invest in the country. Foreign investment dropped from US$66 million in 1982 to US$39 million in 1983, and a further decline to US$22 million in 1986.

Tourism, one of Sri Lanka’s major income earners, was also seriously damaged by the violent internal conflict. Tourist arrivals steadily decreased after the July 1983 riots. This resulted in a loss of jobs and a fall in foreign exchange earnings. This in turn, affected the economy adversely. There were also lesser funds to develop amenities and facilities for the people, such as transport and housing.

All the above consequences of the conflict have affected the economy of Sri Lankan negatively and thus increased Sri Lankan government’s desire for peace agreement.

Ultimately there is no single reason that can explain sufficiently the reason why the Sri Lanka government has the desire for peace. Both reasons contributed to the peace process. With India's intervention, the Sri Lanka government realised that if it does not work for peace then India may take matters into their own hands and force a peace settlement. At the same time, the continued conflict has hinder economic growth and development and the government knows that only when there is peace will there be development. Therefore both reasons has contributed to the desire for peace.

(Note from the Ess You must show how the two factors are dependent on each other and therefore both have equal impact on Sri Lankan government for peace agreement.)

How far did resettlement of the Sinhalese to the Tamil areas caused the conflict in Sri Lanka? Explain your answer.

Issue : Reasons for the conflict in Sri Lanka

Given Factor : Resettlement of Sinhalese to the Tamil areas

Alternative Factor :
Citizenship rights
Official Language Act

Rank:

The conflict between the Sinhalese and the Tamils has existed since 1948. This is because the Tamils feel that the Sinhalese-dominated government has been unfair to them in various ways.

.g. The government implemented a policy to provide land for the poor Sinhalese peasants. These peasants were transferred from the densely-populated south western and central areas into Tamil areas. However, the Buddhists monks and the Sri Lankan Army came with the other Sinhalese to the Tamil areas to occupy the land. This caused unhappiness because the Tamils now have to compete with the Sinhalese peasants for land as well as jobs and sales of their products. They thus resented the government and began to oppose the government. Many gave their support to the Tamil Tigers in their opposition against the government and this gave rise to the conflict. There was also resentment against the monks and the Sri Lankan Army and this worsened the relationship between the Tamils and the Sinhalese, increasing the tension and the hostility. Therefore resettlement of the Sinhalese to the Tamil areas caused the conflict in Sri Lanka but it is not the only reason.

For example, in 1948, Sri Lanka granted citizenship to only those who were either born in Sri Lanka or those whose fathers and grandfathers are born there. As a result many Indian Tamils found themselves stateless. Though India tried to help them solve this problem, many Indian Tamils continued to remain stateless in the late 1980s. This caused them to be very unhappy as despite their contribution to the economy, they were not given citizenship rights like voting. They thus supported the Tamil Tigers in their opposition against the government and this caused the conflict. Therefore citizenship rights also contribute to the conflict in Sri Lanka.

Under the British rule the language of administration was English and the Tamils held powerful jobs in the government service because of their good command of English which the Sinhalese did not learn well. However, when the 1956 Official Language Act was passed, Sinhalese became the language of administration. The Tamils held a peaceful demonstration which was however disrupted by the supporters of the Sinhala language. This upset the Tamils as they found that they were unable to secure jobs or be promoted in the government service. They also concluded that peaceful means might not work and that violence might be the answer to the problem. Hence they supported the Tamil Tigers and this caused the conflict. So this is yet another reason that contribute to the conflict in Sri Lanka.

The conflict between Sri Lanka has been going on for a very long time. Citizenship rights used to be an important issue but has now became a secondary concern as in 2003, the Sri Lanka passed a bill that grant citizenship rights to the Tamils. Similarly the Official Language Act that brought about so much unhappiness has been partly resolved. This is because the Sri Lanka government has granted greater recognition to the Tamil language by declaring it the national language, the language of administration in the norther and eastern provinces as well as an official language. Therefore these two factors are no longer the most important causes for the conflict as the Sri Lanka government has made effort to resolve the issue.

However, the resettlement of the Sinhalese to the Tamil areas has not been resolved. This resentment that the Tamil feel over the issue of resettlement has continued to contribute to the conflict. Therefore, this resentment is the most important reason for the causes of the conflict.

(Note from the Ess :The answer should not only provide the reasons why it is the most important factor and but also the reasons why the other two factors are not as important or show a correlation between the three factors.

Award 11 marks for explaining why one factor is the most important factor and why one other factor is not as important and 12 marks for explaining why one factor is the most important and why 2 other factors are not as important.)

(Note from the Ess : This answer is obtained from the specimen papers and mark schemes from the University of Cambridge International Examinations and the Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board. Draw your own inference)

Here are three ways in which Singapore can deter aggressors:
it citizen armed force
its defence industry
military co-operation

Which of these is a better way of deterring aggression? Explain your answer.

Issue: Better ways to deter aggressor.

Given factors
i. it citizen armed force
ii. its defence industry
iii. military co-operation

Rank: Both i and ii are equally important as we cannot depend on anyone else for our defence.
Military co-operation is a secondary consideration as today's friends can become tomorrow's enemy.

Singapore is a small country and so the opportunity to attract aggressors is higher as they may think that it is easy to conquer Singapore. Therefore Singapore must have effective and several ways to deter aggressors. She cannot just depend on one deterrence alone. Deterrence refers to measures taken by countries to prevent and protect themselves from threats.

Singapore has a citizen armed forced. In 1967, National Service was introduced and all males over 18 have to do it. This mean they all have military training.

The citizen armed force is an effective way of deterring aggressors. National Services ensures that all able-bodied males receive military training, and even after they have finished their full-time NS, they get more training over the next thirteen years. So in addition to its small regular armed forces, Singapore has a large pool of people who are ready to fight if needed, which means that it is militarily self-reliant, so anyone thinking of attacking us would definitely have to think twice. Therefore having a citizen armed force is one way to deter aggression.

However, Singapore's defence industry is also an important deterrent. We do not want to have to depend on other people for our weapons.We need to be able to make the kinds of equipment that are suitable for our purposes, and to upgrade our equipment like our F5-E fighter jets. Our enemies will then know that whatever happens our forces will be well equipped and will be a formidable opposition to them if they try to attack.

By having a citizen force that has the latest equipments, we would have built up a strong defence force and so it is an effective way of deterring aggression.

However, apart from building up a strong defence force within the country, Singapore also develop friendly ties with the armed forces of other countries. This is done mainly through bilateral and multilateral military agreements, joint military exercises, training programmes and participation in the UN peace mission. These training activities increase cooperation and strengthen ties among the participating countries. In this way, there will be less opportunity for Singapore to come in conflict with other countries which will help to reduce the number of potential aggressors.

Ultimately, having a citizen armed force and having a country's own defence industry are essential and equally important. This is because either one on its own would not be of much use. It is important for Singapore to be self-reliant in both manpower and resources for defence. Having Singapore as soldiers and having Singapore's own weapons will ensure that we have an effective defence force to deter aggression.

Promoting military cooperation plays a secondary and supportive role in deterring aggression because if a country wish to attack Singapore, it will not really take into consideration the past good relationship that it has with Singapore.

To what extent is Singapore's membership of ASEAN due to its wish to promote economic development in the region? Explain your answer.

Issue: Reasons for Singapore to join ASEAN

Given Factor : To promote economic development
Alternative Factor: To promote regional peace and security

Rank:
Primary reason : To promote regional peace and security

Secondary reason : to promote economic development.
There must be peace and prosperity in ASEAN before economic development can take place.

The aims and purposes of the ASEAN are: (1) to accelerate economic growth, social progress and cultural development in the region and (2) to promote regional peace and stability.

ASEAN promotes trade between members and encourages outside countries like Japan to invest in the region. Singapore wants to promote economic development in the region because this will increase trade and other forms of economic partnerships, which means there will be more jobs and increase prosperity. An international organization like ASEAN can help countries work together and encourage other countries to invest in the region, so clearly Singapore will want to be a member.

However, this is not the only reason why Singapore is a member of ASEAN.It is really about helping the neighbouring countries in matters of common interest. For example, when the haze situation affected some Southeast Asian countries in 1997, Singapore helped Indonesia in monitoring forest fires through the use of satellite images. By helping Indonesia, Singapore has establish good diplomatic relationship with her neighbours. In this way, regional peace and security can be maintained and even strengthen.

However economic factors and the need to get along with your neighbours are equally important. It stands to reason that if you are enemies with a country, then you will not want to trade with them. So Singapore's membership of ASEAN is not just for one reason. If there is co-operation and friendship between nations on diplomatic matters,then they will be more inclined to share economic interest. Therefore Singapore's membership in ASEAN is due to the twin reason of promoting economic development and regional peace and security.

Main reason why the UN was formed.

To what extent did concerns with peacekeeping lead to the formation of the UN? Explain your answer.

Issue : Reasons for the formation of the UN

Primary Reason: Concern with peacekeeping

Secondary Reason : Promotion of economic development

The United Nations was formed after World War II to promote peace, security, and economic development. It came into existence after the collapse of the League of Nations which had been started after World War I.

The League of Nations took too long to make decisions and peace was broken. For example when the Japanese invaded Manchuria in 1939 the League of Nations could not stop this. This showed that the League was powerless and a new organization was needed. The League had no arm of its own and relied on the cooperation of members.

In addition the outbreak of WW2 showed that peace was not maintained by the League. Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbour in 1941exposed the League’s weaknesses in peacekeeping. So a new organization, the UN was established so that the weaknesses of the failed League would not be repeated. Therefore the concern with peacekeeping was the primary reason that lead to the formation of the UN.

However there was the additional concern of promotion economic social and cultural development. For example, the World Health Organisation (WHO) was formed under the UN umbrella to bring the world to a point where all the people are not just free of diseases e.g. cholera and smallpox but are at a high level of health. It provides money to train doctors, nurses and other health workers for developing countries and keeps governments informed about new drugs.

In addition, the Food & Agricultural Oragnisation. (FAO) aims to raise standards by encouraging improvements in agricultural production. It Introduces new varieties of maize and rice which have a higher yield and are less susceptible to disease. It train people in poor countries how to increase food production by the use of fertilizers, new techniques and new machinery and cash to fund new projects.

Peacekeeping as compared to economic development played a more important part in the formation of the UN. In peacekeeping, the UN was able to prevent further conflicts and bloodshed from breaking out. In armed conflicts, more people would be killed and buildings destroyed. Hence peace-keeping was more a determining factor than promoting economic development. It is less important because it depends a great deal on the peacekeeping measures. Only if peace could be enforced, can there be there economic development

Quick Guide on Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is located about 31km (18.5 miles) off the southern coast of India. For much of the last 20 years it has suffered fighting between the armed forces of the predominantly Sinhalese government and Tamil Tiger rebels who want an independent homeland in the north and east.

Sri Lanka is a multi-ethnic country, with a population of 18m people. It is an ancient centre of Buddhism. It also has a significant number of Hindus, Christians and Muslims. There are also a number of smaller communities such as the Burghers and the Veddas.

The civil war has killed about 64,000 people, displaced one million and held back the island's growth and economic development.


The origins of the current violence go back to the island's independence from Britain in 1948.

Although the years immediately following the end of colonial rule were largely peaceful, from the outset there were tensions between the majority Sinhalese community - who are mostly Buddhist - and the Tamil community who are mostly either Hindu or Roman Catholic.

The communities speak different languages - Sinhala and Tamil - and both claim their ancestors were original settlers on the island.

While the island's population enjoys what is arguably the highest per capita standard of living in South Asia, in the years after independence the Tamil community complained of discrimination when it came to getting jobs in the civil service or winning places at universities.

The government argued it was redressing the imbalance from colonial times when Sinhalas accused the British of giving preferential treatment to Tamils.

The run-up to war

Resentment over perceived discrimination was cited by the Tamil Tiger leader, Prabhakaran, as the motivating factor behind his decision to form the Tamil New Tigers militia in 1972. In 1976, this body changed its name to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) more commonly known as the Tamil Tigers.

The cause of "Eelam" - a Tamil homeland in the north and east - has been invoked to justify countless suicide bombings by the Tigers on civilian and military targets.

One of the first such attacks was ordered by Prabhakaran in 1983, when the Tamil Tigers attacked an army patrol in the north of the country.

That in turn led to anti-Tamil riots in which an estimated 600 people were killed and thousands displaced.

Pattern emerges

From that moment onwards, it can be argued that the Sri Lankan conflict followed a pattern that in many ways is still repeated today.

Throughout the 1980s, 1990s and for parts of this decade, the country has witnessed a combination of Tamil Tiger suicide attacks on the one hand and repeated military skirmishes in the north and east on the other.
The violence over this time period has been interspersed by various international efforts to negotiate a peace settlement: technically the two sides are not at war despite the recent violence, as neither has formally withdrawn from a peace treaty signed in 2002.

Both the military and the Tamil Tigers have been frequently accused of gross violations of human rights by international rights groups.

Civilians have been routinely murdered and thousands made homeless by the years of war.

The fighting has been complicated by the existence of shadowy paramilitary groups. Also a group of rebels led by their eastern commander, Karuna, broke away from the Tamil Tigers in March, 2004.

The conflict has also had a disastrous impact on reconstruction efforts after the December 2004 Asian tsunami with the distribution of international aid hampered by the fighting.

Can either side secure a military triumph?

Neither seems to have the muscle to win outright military victory - although both have had their successes.

In recent months it can perhaps be argued that while the conflict is no less winnable for either side - it has become a great deal more bloody.
At least 2,000 people - troops, Tamil Tiger rebels and Tamil, Sinhalese and Muslim civilians - were killed in the first nine months of 2006, the government and truce monitors say.

Unless common ground can be found between the government's oft-stated position that it is only prepared to allow more autonomy for the north and east and the Tiger's desire for full-scale independence for these areas, a solution to this most intractable of disputes looks as far away as ever.

OSA:What Makes Good Governance in Singapore

How important is the principle of fairness a crucial factor in ensuring good governance in Singapore? Explain your answer.

Level 1
Describes the principle of fairness but without focus on question.
Good governance means to practice the principle of fairness so that everyone is satisfied with the government.

Level 2
Disagrees and identifies / describes alternate factors.
Award 2 marks for identifying one factor and an additional mark for identifying any other factors.

The Principle of Fairness is a crucial factor in ensuring good governance in Singapore. However, there are other factors:

(i) Principle of Pragmatism
(ii) Principle of Transparency
(iii) Principle of Meritocracy
(iv) Principle of Forward Looking


Level 3
Agrees and explain the given factor or other factors.
Award 4 marks for an explanation of the given factor, an additional mark for further details to a max of 6 marks.


To a certain extent, the principle of fairness is a crucial factor in ensuring good governance in Singapore. Treating every community equally ensures harmony among the various races. Under the policy of multi-racialism, the Constitution prohibits the favouring of a certain group of people because of their race or religion.

Furthermore, English, Malay, Chinese and Tamil are recognised as official languages of Singapore. There is religious freedom and mutual respect for one another’s religion. The policy on minority representation gives minority groups a say in the governance, eg. Through the GRC(1982) system, where a maximum of six candidates are fielded as a team to contest in the GE, at least one candidate must be a Malay, Indian or other minority communities. This ensures minority rights are exercised in Parliament….etc.

Award 4 marks for an explanation of an alternative factor and an additional mark for an explanation of any other factors / further details, to a maximum of 6 marks.

No, the principle of pragmatism is also a crucial factor as the government adopts practical solutions to solve problems. In its 1960s economic policy regarding opening the country to foreign investment, the govt. boldly allows foreign companies to operate in Singapore unlike most developing countries which feared foreign domination of their economy at that time. This was to result in greater economic progress in the 1970s. On the policy of car ownership and usage, the government adopted an unpopular approach to limit traffic congestion by introducing ERP system….etc


Level 4
Explain both elements of L3
Award 7 marks to answers which explains the given factor and identifies at least one other factor.
Award 8 marks to answers which explains the given factor and alternative factor. An additional mark to be awarded for explanation of other factors to a maximum of 10 marks.


Level 5
Reaches a balanced conclusion based on L4
Award 11 marks for answers that weigh the relative importance of the different factors and an additional mark for showing how the various factors are interlinked.

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‘Having good leadership in the government is the best policy in sustaining good governance in Singapore.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer.

Level 1
Writes about good leadership / government without focus on question.
Award 1 mark for 1 detail and an additional mark for further details.
Good governance means to have good leadership.

Level 2
Agrees or disagrees and describes having good leadership
Award 3 marks for a description of the given factor and an additional mark for another description, to a maximum of 4 marks.

The govt. needs people who are talented, competent and honest to govern the country. These leaders must also display foresight, vision and imagination. They must have strong inter-personal communication skills in order to work as a team and communicate government policies clearly. They must understand the people’s needs and aspirations and be willing to consult the people.

Level 3
Disagrees and describe the alternate factor.
Award 4 marks for a description of the other given role, and an additional mark for another description, to a maximum of 5 marks.
No, having a high standard of service from the Civil Service is important. Civil servants are expected to innovate and think creatively to solve problems in their work place and to improve the quality of their work. They need to undergo regular training on how to provide excellent service.
They need to uphold the principle of meritocracy, honesty and transparency and to use modern technology so as to maintain a high standard of efficiency.


Level 4
Explain reasons for given factor or alternate factor(s)
Award 6 marks for an explanation of given factor, and an additional mark for each supporting detail, to a maximum of 8 marks.

I agree that the govt. needs people who are talented, competent and honest to govern the country. These leaders must also display foresight, vision and imagination. They must have strong inter-personal communication skills in order to work as a team and communicate government policies clearly. They must understand the people’s needs and aspirations and be willing to consult the people. They need to uphold the principle of meritocracy, honesty and transparency and to use modern technology so as to maintain a high standard of efficiency.

Level 5
Explain reasons for both the given and alternate factors.
Award 9 marks for an explanation of why the given and alternate factors are important, and an additional mark for each supporting detail, to a maximum of 11 marks.


Level 6
Weighs the relative importance of different roles, based on L5.
Award 12 marks to answers that explain why the given and alternate factors are important in comparison. Award 13 marks for any further explanation.

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How far was good governance in Singapore due to the governing
principle of meritocracy? [12]


L1 Writes about good governance but without focus on the question.
Award 1m for each detail, to a maximum of 2m. 1- 2


L2 Describes given factor OR/AND identifies/describes other factor(s).
Award 3m for describing the given factor OR identifying / describing other factor(s).
Award 4m for doing both. 3- 4


L3 Explains the given factor OR other factor(s)
Award 4m for an explanation of how the principle of meritocracy contributes to good governance in Singapore, and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 6m.

E.g.Meritocracy was first introduced in the Singapore education system to ensure a level playing field for a multi-racial society like Singapore. This meant that one can only succeed through talent and hard work. This is essential as it will create an environment whereby no particular race or religious groups have a monopoly on any business or sector of the economy. Rewards for hard work and talents are recognised rather than based on wealth, family background or even worse race or religion.

This has contributed to Singapore’s good governance as it creates a level playing field for every deserving Singaporean from all walks of life. This also ensures that anyone were given the chance and opportunity to succeed through their own hard work and talent.


In short, meritocracy ensure the best and brightest are given the opportunities to excel and to serve Singapore thus ensuring good governance in Singapore.


OR

Award 4m for an explanation of an alternative reason for good governance, and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 6m.

E.g The policy of forward looking is also another factor that contributes to good governance in Singapore. Singapore has 2 water agreements with Malaysia ending in 2011 and 2061 respectively. Singapore has recognised the importance of water not only for her domestic needs but also for her industrial needs as well. This is especially true when in times of drought and war when a basic necessity such as water becomes more critical. Being dependent on Johor for our water has also made us vulnerable as a nation. The government then embarked on the need for foresight and vision in solving this problem.


The governmet by being forward looking has come up with a new and innovative way to sustain our water supplies and needs. By creating Newater or ‘reclaimed water’ the government has also strengthen its resolve to overcome our vulnerabilities. This will gradually enable Singapore to finally relieve her dependence on foreign nations for her basic needs. This is especially so when the 2 water agreements with Johor expire in 2011 and 2061. This has also contributed to good governance as the people will have more confidence in the government in solving the country’s resource constraints..



L4 Both elements of L3.
Award 7m to answer that give explanation of how the principle of meritocracy contributes to good governance & identify/describe other factor(s).

Award 8-10m for explanation of the principle of meritocracy, AND other factor(s).

Note: Where other factors are concerned, do not award the highest mark unless more than 1 factor is dealt with. 7- 10


L5 L4 + discusses the relative importance of different factors.
Weighing 2 factors only accepted. 11- 12


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‘The role of the government is more important than the role of citizens in sustaining good governance.’ How far do you agree with this
statement? Explain your answer. [13]

L1 Writes about good governance but without focus on the question.
Award 1m for each detail, to a maximum of 2m.1-2


L2 Agrees OR Disagrees, + identifies reasons.
Award 3m for identifying one reason for agreeing OR disagreeing.
Award 4m for identifying 2 reasons for agreeing OR disagreeing.

E.g. Yes. The role of the government is more important in sustaining good governance because power and authority are in government’s hands. 3-4



L3 Agrees AND Disagrees, + identifies reasons.

E.g. No. The role of citizens is more important than the government’s role because without popular support, the government will collapse.4-5



L4 Explains reasons for Agreement OR Disagreement.
Award 6m for an explanation of why the government’s role contributed more in sustaining good governance, and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 8m.

E.g Good governance requires strong, able leadership in government. The government takes the lead in formulating policies for good governance such as practising looking forward principle, meritocracy and other principles of good governance. With the authority and power that the government possess, the government is in position to maintain good governance through leadership renewal and ensuring that the leadership is honest, tested and capable Leaders who are good team players are crucial so as to avoid struggle for power among them. Those talented are identified early in their careers & are then groomed to take on leadership roles. Good leadership wins confidence & respect of the people & ensures good governance will continue in Singapore.

OR

Award 6m for an explanation of why the people’s role contributed more in sustaining good governance, and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 8m.

E.g. In order that good governance is sustained in Singapore, the people’s role is important as the government cannot continue good governance if the country is disunited and there is racial conflict. Singaporeans are encouraged to participate actively in community service, which helps strengthen community bonding & social cohesion. If we do not have social cohesion, people will not support the government & therefore good governance cannot continue. The people’s sense of rootedness and belonging are also important factors in sustaining good governance.It is important to remain rooted to the country as otherwise the people would leave the country in times of difficulties. This would make the country suffer more, leading to its decline.6-8

L5 Both aspects of L4
Award 9m for an explanation of why the government’s role OR people’s role contributed more in sustaining good governance and identify alternative reason(s).

Award 10m for an explanation of why the government’s role AND the people’s role contributed in sustaining good governance in Singapore 9-11



L6 Reaches a balanced conclusion based on explanation of factors in L5.
12-13

“The United Nations :a successful international organization” Do you agree? Explain your answer. [13]

Issue: Success of the UN

Give proposition: UN is successful

Alternative proposition: UN is not successful

Rank

Balanced conclusion: Successful in some areas, unsuccessful in other areas. UN is not a complete success neither is it a complete failure.

Yes, UN is a successful international organization.

The UN has played an important role to preserve world peace and provide aid. The UN Security Council has successfully imposed sanctions as deterrence to prevent wars. This collective effort has led to many successes such as helping to maintain peace in troubled areas such as Kuwait, Iraq, etc UN intervention in the Korea War stop the spread of communism in the south and helped to come to an agreement to end the war.

The International Court of Justice also helps members to settle their disputes peacefully. For example, Singapore has benefited through trying to solve conflicts peacefully with Malaysia over Pedra Branca and the water issue.

The UN is most effective in providing help such as food and medicine to countries in need that face emergencies eg. floods, earthquake, famines in Pakistan, the Philippines, etc. UN international aid through its various organizations such as the Red Cross, have helped to build communities in times of crisis such as after Iran earthquake and the tsunami crisis in Acheh.

However UN is not completely a successful international organization.
UN has not been successful all the time, especially in its peacekeeping missions on some occasions.

The Peace-keepers are only sent if the warring parties want to have peace and are willing to accept UN intervention. Sometimes the countries concerned do not welcome the UN’s help and conflict could worsen as opposition fight against UN troops as can be seen in the war in Iraq.

The sending out of the Peace-keepers often went too late and half-heartedly. This is because consent of the major UN members must be sought before they were sent. The peace-keeping force made up of troops from different countries. The troops are under various different commanders and often, their actions are not well-coordinated.

The UN Peace-keepers are not given active political power to over-rule the countries in conflict. They are only acting as impartial third party to supervise armistice only. Sometimes UN intervention worsens the already tense situation and escalates the war into an international conflict. Eg: The Korean War.

Many members of the peacekeeping forces and innocent lives have been lost or injured and destruction caused as UN peacekeeping forces try to put down rebels. The UN also sometimes fail to stop conflicts as seen from the outbreak of the Vietnam War, the recent N.Korean missile crisis and the attacks in Lebanon.

The UN is most successful in providing aid to members who are in trouble as she is able to harness resources such as food and medicine donated by its many members from the developed world and other world organizations. However, in its safekeeping tasks, it has not been as successful as it faces limitations – the UN is not given the active political powers to intercede and overrule the countries in conflict.

But to a large extent, the UN is a successful organisation and has helped to prevent the outbreak of another major world war.

a) To what extent has Singapore’s involvement in ASEAN helped her to maintain good diplomatic relations? Explain your answer. [12]

Issue : How Singapore maintain good diplomatic relations

Given factor : Singapore's involvement in ASEAN

Alternative Factors : Membership in UN,Bilateral Relationship.

Rank

Foundation /Corner stone : Bilateral Relationship

Secondary Relationship: Regional (ASEAN relationship) International Relationship.

Yes Singapore's involvement in ASEAN has helped her to maintain good diplomatic relations with her neighbour in South East Asia.

Singapore is active in leading ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) meetings to discuss security issues and confidence building measures with other counterpart nations like USA, China, Japan and Korea. She has been proactive in sponsoring and supporting regular opportunities for Foreign Ministers of ASEAN to meet with their regional and international counterparts to discuss issues of security concern so as to promote greater confidence and transparency in international dealings. This has earned the respect of the countries in the region in believing that Singapore is eager to pursue foreign policies beneficial to the region.

In this way, Singapore has managed to maintain good diplomatic ties with her neighbours. There have been no major disputes that have led to violence or war between the members ever since ASEAN’s formation. Instead there has been mutual cooperation on several issues such as dealing with terrorism. Singapore has also shared her expertise and knowledge in several areas with her neighbours such as Indonesia in fighting haze. She has offered ASEAN scholarships to deserving students from ASEAN countries.

However, besides ASEAN, bilateral and international relations are equally important in helping Singapore maintain good diplomatic relations.

Singapore is active in supporting UN missions and commissions in international peacekeeping and international law plenary sessions. Since her accession to the United Nations, Singapore has sat on the General Assembly and sent peacekeeping, police and medical missions to countries ranging from Cambodia, East Timor to Iraq. Singapore is also prolific in volunteering for international law plenary sessions and discussions. She has been involved in chairing the draft sessions of the UN Law of the Sea Convention. Her willingness to play her part in international peacekeeping has won her the respect and good diplomatic standing in the international community. This willing to be a positive contribution to the United Nations has helped enhanced her good diplomatic standing. Therefore maintianing international relationship has helped Sinagpore to maintian good diplomatic relationships with many countries.

Besides, Singapore is also active in fostering strong bilateral ties to promote greater cooperation and mutual benefits. Singapore consistently seeks to build good bilateral relations with countries in the region such as Malaysia and also form new partnerships with those not traditionally in the circle of contact. To those in the region, Singapore is ready to assist in community and humanitarian missions eg. Indonesia and the Philippines. Singapore also explores new trading links and relations with countries further away like Bahrain, Chile eg. recent FTA talks to break new grounds in forging win-win solutions in bilateral cooperation. Therefore maintianing bilateral relationship has helped Sinagpore to maintian good diplomatic relationships with many countries as Singapore is current not having any conflict with any countiry.


In conclusion, building sound bilateral relations is the corner stone or foundation of Singapore diplomacy and that is the single most important factor that has helped her to build close regional ties and to contribute positively to the international community. Good bilateral relations between Singapore and other individual states is the basis that allows her to function meaningfully within supranational frameworks be it regional organizations like ASEAN or International Organisations such as the UN.

“Being forward-looking has enabled Singapore to ride through trying times and achieve progress.” Do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer. [13m]

Issue : How Singapore ride through trying times and achieve progress.

Given factor : Being forward looking

Alternative measure : Meritocracy and harmonious relationship among the different races.

Rank Order

Necessary factor to ensure Singapore’s ability to ride through trying times and achieve progress : Being forward looking

Supporting factor to ensure Singapore’s ability to ride through trying times and achieve progress. Meritocracy and harmonious relationship among the different races.

Singapore has been to several trying times and yet have managed to achieve progress. Singapore has managed to develop from a third world country to a first world country in a short span of 40 years.

Being forward looking and anticipating changes is important to enable Singapore to ride through trying times and achieve progress. In this way, Singapore will stay relevant in the globalised economy. It involves planning ahead to meet the future needs of Singapore.

For example, the Singapore government actively look for an alternative source of water such as NEWater treatment projects and desalination plants to meet future needs for water as the water agreements with Malaysia will run out by 2011 and 2061. The production of NEWater and desalinated water means that we have alternative water supplies. The need to change to using more NEWater was communicated to the public clearly. If we do not have a constant supply of water, Singapore will have to go through a trying time but because Singapore is forward looking, she can overcome the trying times ahead.

Another example to show how being forward looking has helped Singapore through trying time and achieve progress is the plan to build two Integrated Resorts (IRs) in order for Singapore to compete better with other countries in the tourism sector. IRs will provide tourists with world class attractions and entertainment in a single destination.It will aslo provides jobs for the people. If Singapore did not plan for the two IRs early, there would be unemployment and Singapore will not be able to attract tourist with world class attractions. The willingness to anticipate change and stay relevant which is part of being forward looking has ensured that Singapore will continue to stay competitive in the world economy. Planning ahead to meet new challenges will bring about stability and that changes will not take the nation by surprise. Therefore by being forward-looking it has enabled Singapore to ride through tryingtimes and achieve progress

Besides being forward looking, Singapore overcame many trying times by upholding the principle of meritocracy. The principle of “meritocracy” is important to encourage the people to excel in whatever they do. In the Civil Service, officers are promoted based entirely on qualifications and performance.By promoting the principle of meritocracy, it ensures that policies laid down by the government is implemented effectively and that no segment of society benefits through corrupt practices. In this way, Singapore was able to ride through trying time and achieved progress.

The ability for Singapore to ride through trying time and achieve progress also depends on harmony among the various communities in Singapore. The principle of “fairness” refers to fair treatment of all Singaporeans. Everyone should feel that they have a share in Singapore’s economic success. The government gives out Singapore shares to all citizens when the economy is doing well. Also, in ensuring fairness in the society, the government adopted the policy of multi-racialism. The policy of multi-racialism recognises English, Malay, Chinese and Tamil as official languages of Singapore. Thus each community can retain and develop its own language and culture in its own separate arena. The Constitution also prohibits laws favouring a certain group of people because of race or religion. In this way when Singapore faces challenges that threaten to tear the community apart, Singaporean are able to work together to face the trying times.

Being forward-looking has enabled Singapore to ride through trying times and achieve progress. For example, Singapore built alot of HDB flats for the people so that the people's standard of living and quality of life improved. But this is not the only factor. She must have a group of effective civil servants to implement the policy and this is achieved through the principle of meritocracy.

Nowadays , because of the threat of transnational terrorism, the people must bond together to fight the enemy. This is done through the principle of fairness. When all the community in Singapore can see that they are treated fairly, they will be willing to work together through this trying time of terrorism