Now that Elective geog is over, take a rest. Slowly I will built up this blog for social studies.
BUT PLEASE no more last minute work for social studies like elective geog especially that boy from5G who wants to poke his tongue.
You cannot expect me to stay up all night msning you all.
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Thursday, October 23, 2008
Study Notes on Diplomacy and Deterrence
DIPLOMACY & DETERRENCE•
Diplomacy is the way countries manage or conduct relations with one another
• Main aim :
– To promote common interests
– Resolve conflicting interest peacefully
• Diplomats– Reps to keep in touch with foreign governments
– Consular, economic and political functions
– Report back to own country
– Sometimes play the role of peacemaker
DIPLOMACY and International CO-OPERATION• Diplomacy is shown in International co-operation
• Takes the form of
– Providing assistance and transfer of knowledge and skills
1.Eg developed countries provide money and training to developing countries
2.Eg co-operate to solve common problems – smuggling of goods across borders
3.Provides a way for countries to come together to prevent a potential
aggressor from attacking other countries Possible actions against aggressor
Economic boycott
• Countries stop trade with aggressor
• Negative effects on aggressor’s economy
• Unable to export its goods – loses important source of revenue
• Also cannot import essential goods like machinery and medicine
Last Resort
Military strike
TYPES OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS:
1. BILATERAL RELATIONS: SINGAPORE
Singapore has established bilateral relations with many countries since independence
Some benefits :
1.with China
2.Transfer of skills and technology from Germany
3.Cultural exchange with Malaysia
4.S’pore willing to help its friends in need
5.Doctors, nurses and teachers sent to Vietnam and Nepal
6.S’pore’s bilateral relations help it gain world recognition
2. REGIONAL RELATIONS: SINGAPORE ASEAN
1967 – 5 SEA leaders realised that it would be better to co-operate with each other than to be at odds with each other
ASEAN was formed on 8 Aug 1967 -Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand ; Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia joined later
3 Main Aims:
• Promote economic, social and cultural development of the region
• Protect peace and stability of the region
• Provide opportunities for member countries to discuss and resolve differences peacefully
1. Promote economic, social and cultural development of the region
– ASEAN members co-operated to improve economies
– ASEAN also established ties with other countries and associations to promote trade in the region
– Eg Japan has invested heavily in the region. Members have benefited from transfer of technology
– 1978 : Committee established to promote greater understanding and appreciation of culture and heritage of its members
– Cultural exchanges organised – film festivals, music and drama workshops, art exhibitions
2. Protect peace and stability of the region– Cambodia : Civil war in 1980s
– Fighting groups supported by countries outside ASEAN
– ASEAN and the UN persuaded the different groups in Cambodia to stop fighting and form a new democratic government
3. Provide opportunities for member countries to discuss and resolve differences peacefully– Differences over national boundaries, trade agreements, fishing rights and immigration
– Spratly Islands : Claimed by Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Vietnam
Issue not resolved to date; countries try to arrive at a peaceful solution
– Islands of Sipadan and Ligitan : claimed by Malaysia and Indonesia
– Pedra Branca : claimed by Singapore and Malaysia
– Countries involved in these disagreements choose to discuss their problems through negotiations and meetings
– At times, seek help from international organisations to settle disputes
– Eg UN International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the case of Pedra Branca
3.INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (IR)– UN serves the needs of all countries in the world
– Main mission : PRESERVE WORLD PEACE esp after two World Wars
– Founded in 1945 by the major powers of the world.
– Started with 51 members; 1999 : 188 members
3 Main Aims:
1. Providing help to countries in need
2. Giving a Voice to every member country
3. Safeguarding Peace and Stability
1. Providing help to countries in need– Helps countries facing immediate problems eg famines and earthquakes
– Sends food and medical aid
2. Giving a Voice to every member country– Members have a right to vote on decisions that may affect them
– An opportunity to voice grievances in the General Assembly
– General Assembly : Like a World Parliament where members can vote on various issues
3. Safeguarding Peace and Stability• UN sends peacekeeping forces to troubled areas:
– Comprise members from member countries
– Thus an international force
– Peacekeepers do not simply go to any troubled area
– Must first have the consent of UN members and the countries in conflict
– Main task of peacekeeping force : Ensure parties involved in an armed conflict observe the peace by keeping them apart and preventing them from fighting
– Peacekeepers must be neutral – not to side with any party involved in the conflict
The UN Security Council (SC):– Maintains peace and security among member countries
– Eg when war breaks out, it may issue stern warning to aggressor, organise a boycott or take military action to end the war
– 15 members in the SC
– 5 permanent members : China, the Russian Federation, the USA, the UK and France
– The remaining ten members are elected by the General Assembly for two-year term
• The UN International Court of Justice (ICJ):– ICJ helps member countries settle their disputes peacefully
– It is like a World Court where members can present their disputes
– Not compulsory for members to settle their disputes through ICJ
– However, when they do, they must abide by its decision
Singapore in ASEAN
• As a founding member, S’pore actively tries to maintain peace and prosperity in SEA
– eg Took on leadership role in ASEAN regional Forum (ARF)
– ARF provides opportunities for ASEAN and other countries :USA, China, Japan, Korea, Australia to discuss important issues
• S’pore also shares its technical knowledge and expertise with other ASEAN countries
– eg. training courses are arranged for those interested in learning from Singapore’s experience
– Set up training centres overseas eg. Technical training center set up in Vietnam in 1997 to help Vietnam industrilaise
– Also gives scholarships to ASEAN students to study in Singapore
Singapore in the UN
• Singapore : Member since independence in 1965.As a member, S’pore was given help and advice by UN experts on social and economic development
– Eg Dr Albert Winsemius, the economic expert who helped S’pore’s economy after independence
• Although a small country, S’pore’s membership enables us to voice our opinion on world affairs
– Since 1980 : S’pore sent over 400 police, SAF and civil service officers on UN peacekeeping missions to various countries
– 1995 : S’pore played an important role in the UN Law of the Sea Conference
The Conference was to decide on the territorial rights of a country over its waters. S’pore’s representative to the UN, Prof Tommy Koh chaired the conference
MILITARY DETERRENCE–
Diplomacy MAY resolve or prevent international disputes
– But it should not be seen as THE only way
– For diplomacy to be effective, it must be supported by military deterrence
– Frederick the Great said, “Diplomacy without military equipment is like music without instruments”
– Countries must therefore strengthen their diplomacy with military strength
– A country’s military strength will make a potential enemy think twice before attacking it
– It knows that if it continues with the attack, the other country will respond with all its military might. In the end, both sides will suffer enormous losses
SINGAPORE : Two-pronged approach–
Diplomacy and deterrence for Singapore’s defence
– Though bilateral ties, regional and international associations, we seek to co-operate with members of the international community
– But diplomacy is no guarantee of peace and security, especially for small countries like S’pore
– Singapore needs to ensure that its armed forces are powerful enough to deter ANY aggressor
SINGAPORE AND ITS USE OF DETERRENCE
1. A CITIZEN ARMED FORCES
• S’pore learnt the importance of establishing its own defence force through the Jap Occupation, the Indonesian Confrontation and the 1964 race riots
• Why a citizen armed forces ?
– In 1965, we could not afford a large professional army given our population of less than 2 million then
– Manpower was also needed in factories and industries
– We did not have the finances to support a professional army anyway
– Dr Goh Keng Swee was given the task of creating a competent defence force
– 1967 : National Service (NS) was introduced
– All 18-year-old able-bodied male citizens were called up for part-time or full-time NS
– These citizen soldiers were trained and commanded by a small regular force
– For S’pore, NS play a significant role in nation building
– Through it, Singaporeans learn to defend our country
– NS training is a good way of bonding together – common experience during training– Develop a sense of loyalty, patriotism and a shared destiny–
Upon completion of full-time NS, the men undergo training for 13 years for a maximum of 40 days a year
– Refresher training : To maintain competence in handling new weapons and equipment, to learn new tactics of war
– Ensures that they are ready to defend Singapore at ALL times
– Through NS, an effective SAF is produced despite our small size and population–
1965 : 50 officers, 1,000 men and 2 small naval vessels
– Today : The Army, the RSAF and the RSN
– 1965 to 82 : Concentrated on military defence
– 1983 : Civil Defence included
– 1984 : Total Defence part of defence policy
2. TOTAL DEFENCE
• Modern wars involve the entire population
• Through TD, the whole population has a part to play in ensuring S’pore’s security ie psychological defence, economic defence, social defence, civil defence and military defence.
• TD will deter the enemy
3. SINGAPORE’S DEFENCE INDUSTRIES
Why our own defence industries?
• To design weapons and military equipment suited to our own needs
– Our soldiers will then be able to fight more efficiently and effectively–
In the early years, S’pore faced a shortage of equipment and weapons
– Had to wait a long time for weapons to arrive
– Many were unsuitable for S’pore’s needs
• Countries unwilling to share defence technology
– Eg Electronic warfare
– Involves building an electronic shield around aircraft, ships and fighting vehicles to protect them from incoming threats
– We have to develop our own defence technology
– SDI made up of a few companies eg DTG (Defence Technology Group)
• Responsible for building up the fighting capabilities of the SAF
– Maintenance of weapon systems and equipment in the best possible conditions
– Also produce essential supplies of ammunition
• SDI able to modify and upgrade the performance of weapons and military equipment
– SAF upgrades its existing equipment if it is cost-effective
– Eg A-4 Skyhawks upgraded with new and more powerful engines
– To be an effective fighting force, the armed forces must use the latest technology and equipment
– SDI helps SAF to be self-reliant in essential defence weapons and equipment
4. MILITARY CO-OPERATION
– S’pore fosters friendly ties with armed forces of other countries
– Shortage of suitable training areas
- S’pore makes training arrangements with friendly countries:
– Bilateral and multilateral defence exercises
Bilateral Defence
Exercises and Training
– S’pore conducts exercises with ASEAN countries, Australia, NZ, India, Taiwan and USA
– Increases co-operation and strengthens ties among participating countries
– Australia – offers vast areas of open land for the training of the RSAF
– RSAF operates a Jet Flying Training School in Western Australia
– Aug 1998 – RSAF set up new training facility in Queensland
– Australia agreed to allow RSAF to train there for 15 years
– RSAF pilots, air crew and maintenance specialists will hone their skills as they will be exercising in an area 10 times the size of Singapore
Multilateral Defence Exercises
– FPDA (Five Power Defence Arrangements)
– Formed in 1971 to preserve peace in the region
– In the event of an external threat to Singapore or Malaysia, the members are to consult one another on the appropriate measures to be taken
– Could be carried out jointly or separately
– Although S’pore’s defence capabilities have improved since the 1970s, FPDA continues
to be relevant
CONCLUSION
– Diplomacy and deterrence has made Singapore confident of meeting any threats to its independence
– Poison shrimp? Puffer fish?
– Building a strong defence requires the commitment of the people and government
– It is also costly
– We can finance our defence only if Singapore develops its economy and is financially sound
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The following are just suggested answers. Please donot learn by heart. You need to understand.
Here are two strategies Singapore uses to deter an enemy attack:
Singapore’s Defence Industry
Citizens’ Army
Which do you think is the more effective? Explain your answer
Describe the strategy – Singapore’s Defence Industry
Singapore’s defence industry today is highly sophisticated and modern. In the early years, Singapore depended on imported weapons.
However, because these imported weapons were not suitable to Singapore’s needs, Singapore embarked on creating her own defence industry.
Furthermore, not all weapons could be bought as countries were not willing to share their defence technology like electronic warfare.
The Defence Technology Group is responsible for maintaining weapons systems and producing essential supplies and ammunition.
Explain why it is effective
All this helps to ensure that the SAF is ready to defend Singapore at all times. Therefore, the defence industry has played an important part in deterring an enemy attack because it has allowed the armed forces to be an effective fighting force with the use of the latest technology and weapons.
Describe the strategy – Citizens’ Army
Events in Singapore’s history like the Japanese Occupation and the Indonesian Confrontation have taught Singaporeans the importance of establishing their own defence force.
Because of manpower and economic constraints, Singapore cannot afford a large professional army.
As a result, all 18-year-old men who are able-bodied have to serve national service. Upon completion of their full-time National Service, the men undergo training for a further 13 years for a maximum of 40 days per year.
Explain why it is effective
Thus, national service has played a significant role in nation-building. It not only trains young men to fight for their country but has helped in developing a sense of loyalty, patriotism and a shared destiny.
Moreover because national service fosters racial harmony by requiring all males to go through similar experiences, the men identify themselves to a common purpose of protecting the country.
Therefore, a citizens’ army has played an important part in deterring an enemy attack because potential aggressors will have to face a ready and united force of well-trained soldiers.
Weighing the two factors
In the early days, it was important for Singapore to get it's own army as the Japanese War has shown that we cannot depend on other country like the British to defend us. During this early period, Singapore depended on imported weapons.
However, these imported weapons were not suitable to Singapore’s needs, Singapore embarked on creating her own defence industry.
Moreover not many countries would like to share these technology with Sinagpore.
As our citizen army is formed,it become mroe important for Sinagpore to have her own defence industry to deter an enemy attack. Having a citizen army without the state of the art weapon will only make the army weak and thus in effective in detering an enemy attack.
Therefore having a defence industry is mroe important then having a citizen army to deter an enemy attack.
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Below is not necesssary for you. Only for your reading pleasure
Additional Reading materials
Aug 20, 2007
Asean urged to muster political will to deal with forest fire haze
SOUTH-EAST Asian leaders were urged Monday to muster the political will to deal with the problem of forest fire haze that blankets the region regularly during their summit in Singapore later this year.
Regional think tanks, environmental groups and academics said the smog - caused mainly by burnings in Indonesia - is contributing significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions and could impact on climate change if left unchecked.
In a statement following a one-day dialogue here, the delegates acknowledged some 'positive steps' taken by Indonesia to deal with the problem, but said Jakarta and the region needed to do more.
'The dialogue called for Asean leaders to give attention to the haze,' said Simon Tay, chairman of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs, which co-organised the event.
He said the delegates welcomed the intention of the Association of South-east Asian Nations leaders to focus on environmental issues at their summit in Singapore in November, hoping 'that this would provide political will' to address the problem.
Mr Tay said the delegates, including those from the World Wildlife Fund, Greenpeace and Center for International Forestry, 'highlighted the connections between the regional haze pollution and fires and the global challenge of climate change'.
Smoggy haze from the fires on Indonesia's Sumatra and Kalimantan regions had sent air pollution levels in neighbouring Malaysia and Singapore to unhealthy levels several times last year.
While the haze has not affected major cities in the region this year, this was attributed mainly to the wet weather and favourable wind direction.
Sundari Ramakrishna, coordinator fo the Malaysian Environmental NGOs, said the Indonesian fires are expected to continue in the next 20-30 years if big palm oil plantations continue to clear peatlands to grow the plant.
Oil palm has a variety of uses, providing ingredients for disinfectants, pharmaceuticals, cooking oil, soap and biofuels. -- AFP
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Aug 21, 2007
REGIONAL DIALOGUE
'Lack of coordination' hurting anti-haze efforts
That's a key hurdle, say panellists, including those from Indonesia
By Tania Tan & Arti Mulchand
THE rainy weather may be keeping the skies clear of haze for now, but the region is not breathing easy yet.
A year after the worst haze to hit the region in over a decade, there remain more questions than answers, the panellists at the second Regional Dialogue on Transboundary Haze said yesterday.
'We've just been lucky,' said Associate Professor Simon Tay, chairman of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs, which co-organised the event.
Held at the Regent Hotel, the day-long dialogue noted that the efforts to tackle the perennial problem had been hamstrung by legal, economic and political obstacles.
One of the key concerns raised by participants, including representatives from Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia, was coordination.
'The word is not in our vocabulary,' said Dr Rizal Sukma, deputy executive director of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, an Indonesian think-tank.
He observed that the Indonesian ministries of forestry, agriculture and environment have taken steps to counter slash-and-burn practices in Sumatra and Kalimantan, where the haze originates.
But, at the same time, some six million hectares of new land has been allocated to the development of palm-oil plantations, largely dedicated to the burgeoning biofuel market.
Slash-and-burn practices in parts of this newly developed land cannot be ruled out.
And while Indonesia's Assistant Deputy Minister at the Environment Ministry, Mr Heddy Mukna, has said the country is likely to ratify the Asean Haze Agreement, 'maybe next year', the country's hesitation thus far has also cast a pall over efforts to stem the haze problem, said Dr Sukma.
Without binding agreements and sanctions, anti-haze actions become 'difficult to enforce', he said.
Signed five years ago, the anti-haze pact calls for member states to act to prevent and control burning that can pollute neighbouring countries. It has since been ratified by all the Asean countries except Indonesia and the Philippines.
A lack of funding also makes sustaining anti-haze practices an uphill task, with funds drying up before long-term change can be made, said Dr Sukma.
Mr Mukna said a notorious lack of law enforcement further compounds the problem.
Many areas in Sumatra and Kalimantan are 'very remote', making them 'difficult to police', he said.
But the picture is not entirely bleak.
In a new bottom-up approach, Indonesian provincial authorities have agreed to cooperate with Asean member states to work out detailed fire-prevention plans at a district level , with Malaysia working with Riau, and Singapore with Jambi.
Malaysia has pledged RM$2 million (S$874,000) to its project, while Singapore could be signing a letter of intent with Jambi as early as next month to put its haze masterplan into action.
The Indonesian government has pledged 100 billion rupiah (S$16 million) to each of its eight provinces to develop their own anti-haze initiatives.
What remains now is for regional governments to start looking at the haze as not just an environment concern, but an economic and public health problem, too.
The rain may have temporarily washed away concerns about the smog, but, as Prof Tay said in his summation: 'We must act now.'
taniat@sph.com.sg
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Aug 15, 2007
Hot spots up, but haze action plan still unsigned
No firm deadline yet on signing pact with S'pore, says deputy Indonesian minister
By Azhar Ghani
JAKARTA - THE annual land-clearing season is already under way, with the number of hot spots, which indicate burning on the ground, on the rise.
According to data from the Indonesian forestry authorities, the number of hot spots has been on the rise in Sumatra since the beginning of the month.
The increase in the number of hot spots was also noted by the National University of Singapore's Centre for Remote Imaging, Sensing and Processing (Crisp) - an outfit which monitors satellite images of the region for hot spots.
Mr Chia Aik Song, who heads Crisp's fire monitoring, told The Straits Times that the rise began 'a week ago'.
But bilateral efforts to contain the forest fires and curb the haze appear to have stalled.
Indonesian Deputy Environment Minister Masnellyarti Hilman told The Straits Times yesterday that an agreement to formalise the arrangement had yet to be signed.
This, despite Environment Minister Rachmat Witoelar saying in June that the Letter of Intent (LOI) would be signed last month.
The delay in the signing of the pact would effectively push back the proposed initiatives under a comprehensive anti-haze masterplan for Jambi province.
The province, located on the east coast of central Sumatra, is Singapore's collaborative partner under Indonesia's Asean-supported national plan to combat haze.
A key plank of the masterplan, which was developed jointly by both sides, involves fire-prevention measures.
These include providing alternative livelihoods for small-time farmers and also making it worthwhile for them not to burn cleared vegetation by teaching them to turn the waste into compost or charcoal.
But the plans, which were presented in June, were delayed when Indonesia insisted on the LOI as a pre-condition for full collaboration.
It said then that it needed to put down comprehensive details about the collaboration on paper.
This was to satisfy all government institutions that none of their rules or protocols would be breached.
Ms Masnellyarti said: 'We are communicating with our Singaporean counterparts and have given our input on what we want in the LOI. But there is no firm deadline yet.'
Meanwhile, land-clearing activities in several areas in Sumatra, including Jambi, appear to have picked up pace.
Yesterday's Kompas daily reported that Pekanbaru, the capital of Riau province, which is just north of Jambi, was shrouded in haze for the past two days.
The report said the smoke came from fires within Riau as well as from Jambi and South Sumatra province.
Although Kompas did not provide a pollutant level reading, the daily quoted the deputy head of Pekanbaru's health department, Dr Rini Hermiyati, as advising the city's residents to minimise outdoor activities.
Even though fires in Riau, Jambi and South Sumatra were largely responsible for the haze in Singapore last year, the Republic has not been affected thus far.
The reason, Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA) said yesterday, is that prevailing winds have kept the smoke away.
The Pollutant Standards Index (PSI), a measure of air quality, has so far remained in the 'good' range in Singapore. The prevailing winds are expected to continue in the same direction for the next few days and will keep the haze away from Singapore, the NEA said.
azhar@sph.com.sg
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Aug 21, 2007
Singapore sets itself three challenges as new Asean chairman
A key aim is to beef up Asean's support pillars - economic integration, regional security and socio-cultural ties
By Cheong Suk-Wai
AS ASEAN forges ahead 40 years on, a key task would be strengthening its three supporting pillars - that is, economic integration, regional security and socio-cultural ties.
That, said Foreign Minister George Yeo in a speech yesterday, is one of the three challenges Singapore has set itself as Asean's new chairman, a post it took over from the Philippines on Aug 2.
The other challenges are seeing the draft Asean Charter through to completion at the Asean Summit here in November, and getting all in Asean to tackle energy security, environmental protection and climate change head-on so that regional growth can be sustained.
Mr Yeo was opening the 41st Asean Standing Committee meeting here, the first in a series of Asean events that Singapore will host from now till next August, when it hands over the chairmanship to Thailand.
The committee itself is Asean's engine and comprises directors-general from each member country who meet quarterly to steer Asean's day-to-day operations. Mr Yeo likened it to 'an elaborate timepiece' which no one noticed when it ran like clockwork, but would jump if it did not work well.
Noting that Asean was trying to form its own single market by 2015, Mr Yeo pointed out: 'If only economic integration binds the grouping together, we can only go so far...diversions of national interest will pull us apart.'
He added: 'If security and socio-cultural (ties) were not strengthened simultaneously, then the pillars will crack.'
Asean Secretary-General Ong Keng Yong told The Straits Times that, as chairman, the Republic will set a tone that is 'very business-like' and 'particular about processes'. 'Nobody disagrees with what Singapore has said,' he added. 'The only concern is the pace of change. Should we do it tomorrow or next week?'
Mr Yeo revealed that Asean foreign ministers will study the draft charter here some time next month'before the finishing touches are put to it' for members to sign it at the upcoming Asean Summit.
Meanwhile, Mr Ong said that Asean economic ministers will be kept busy later this week, studying the draft economic blueprint for a single market.
Amid such big developments, Mr Yeo said yesterday that Singapore felt a 'heavy responsibility' on its shoulders.
Mr Yeo's call for a rounded Asean community was echoed by Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi yesterday when he opened the 28th Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (Aipa) in Kuala Lumpur.
Nineteen Singapore MPs, led by Speaker of Parliament Abdullah Tarmugi, were at this four-day meet for regional lawmakers. At the meet, the Singapore Speaker noted that Aipa could help foster the Asean community by accelerating the passing of laws to enforce contracts as well as by being a regional forum to exchange best practices.
Yesterday, Aipa also honoured Mr Abdullah's predecessor, three-time Aipa president Tan Soo Khoon, with its Distinguished Services Award, a warm prelude to Singapore taking over the Aipa presidency from Malaysia on Friday.
suk@sph.com.sg
PM: Bilateral issues best settled by international law
OUTSTANDING bilateral issues between Singapore and Malaysia are best put aside for now to focus on new areas of cooperation, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong told visiting Asean journalists on Friday.
If there are issues which have to be settled, they should be resolved according to international law and treaties, he added.
One such issue is the longstanding territorial dispute over Pedra Branca island, located at the eastern entrance of the Singapore Strait.
Both countries have agreed to take the matter to the International Court of Justice and the case will be heard in November.
'The old issues, we just let it be,' Mr Lee said during the interview, in response to a question from a Malaysian journalist.
'If they have to be resolved, go according to the law and the treaties because that's non-contentious and both sides can accept it, and it doesn't lead to any loss of face or commitment,' he said.
On the Pedra Branca case, Mr Lee hoped Malaysia would accept the court's decision if it was in Singapore's favour.
He said he was sure Singapore would accept one in Malaysia's favour.
As for the other outstanding bilateral issues, Mr Lee said there were no specific items among them that he urgently wanted to settle.
The issues include Malayan Railway land, the use of Malaysian airspace by the Republic of Singapore Air Force, the price of water from Johor and a bridge to replace the Causeway.
Mr Lee said if they had been easy to resolve, his predecessor Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, and Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, from whom Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi took over, would already have done so.
'I do not see myself being able to do better than Mr Goh Chok Tong. And I don't think it would be easier for Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi to do better than Dr Mahathir, because what Dr Mahathir could not give, Datuk Seri Abdullah cannot give,' he said.
Turning to government-to-government cooperation on the Iskandar Development Region in Johor, Mr Lee said there had been some reaction within Malaysia to the setting up of a joint ministerial committee.
To prevent misunderstanding, Singapore has decided to proceed at the pace that Malaysia is comfortable with.
'We will let Malaysia take the lead...In other areas, I think we should proceed like that too, because otherwise, if we push too hard, there might be some misinterpretation,' he said.
Mr Lee was also asked whether Singapore and Indonesia's differences over an extradition treaty and defence pact could be overcome.
He said that Singapore had suggested a way forward and was waiting for Jakarta to respond.
But the matter had become politicised in the Indonesian Parliament, so Singapore would wait until Indonesia reached a consensus to proceed, he said.
Aug 12, 2007 Straits Time By Lynn Lee
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Aug 29, 2007
Army to boost their inventory with unmanned aerial vehicles
THE air force has them, the navy has them, and soon, the army will get its hands on them - by year's end.
They are small remotely controlled unmanned vehicles that can go where no man can go to, or might want to.
The air force and the army call theirs UAVs, or unmanned aerial vehicles.
While the pilotless planes already in the flyboys' inventory have wingspans nearly as long as two car lengths, the army's will be so small they can fit into a backpack.
Size apart, all UAVs serve a vital mission: they help ground forces see further upfield, and can go into enemy territory to gather information without risk to soldiers.
The army started experimenting with low-cost mini-UAVs two years ago. By the end of the year, army units down to the battalion level will be getting mini-UAVs fitted with surveillance cameras.
The Chief of Army, Major-General Neo Kian Hong, said on Monday the army will be increasing the use of UAVs from battalion-level up.
He said the UAVs 'will be able to give information to ground forces in a real-time fashion, to allow them to fight in a more effective way'.
The Ministry of Defence said that the units involved in reconnaissance will be among those to train in UAVs.
The adoption of new technologies such as mini-UAVs is in line with the transformation of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) into a third-generation, high-tech, force over the next decade.
It will be an SAF relying on fewer but better educated soldiers adept at handling advanced, precision technology.
Thus, unmanned systems that can fly, sail or swim are a rapidly advancing area to enhance the SAF's capabilities.
________________________________________________________________________________
Diplomacy is the way countries manage or conduct relations with one another
• Main aim :
– To promote common interests
– Resolve conflicting interest peacefully
• Diplomats– Reps to keep in touch with foreign governments
– Consular, economic and political functions
– Report back to own country
– Sometimes play the role of peacemaker
DIPLOMACY and International CO-OPERATION• Diplomacy is shown in International co-operation
• Takes the form of
– Providing assistance and transfer of knowledge and skills
1.Eg developed countries provide money and training to developing countries
2.Eg co-operate to solve common problems – smuggling of goods across borders
3.Provides a way for countries to come together to prevent a potential
aggressor from attacking other countries Possible actions against aggressor
Economic boycott
• Countries stop trade with aggressor
• Negative effects on aggressor’s economy
• Unable to export its goods – loses important source of revenue
• Also cannot import essential goods like machinery and medicine
Last Resort
Military strike
TYPES OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS:
1. BILATERAL RELATIONS: SINGAPORE
Singapore has established bilateral relations with many countries since independence
Some benefits :
1.with China
2.Transfer of skills and technology from Germany
3.Cultural exchange with Malaysia
4.S’pore willing to help its friends in need
5.Doctors, nurses and teachers sent to Vietnam and Nepal
6.S’pore’s bilateral relations help it gain world recognition
2. REGIONAL RELATIONS: SINGAPORE ASEAN
1967 – 5 SEA leaders realised that it would be better to co-operate with each other than to be at odds with each other
ASEAN was formed on 8 Aug 1967 -Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand ; Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia joined later
3 Main Aims:
• Promote economic, social and cultural development of the region
• Protect peace and stability of the region
• Provide opportunities for member countries to discuss and resolve differences peacefully
1. Promote economic, social and cultural development of the region
– ASEAN members co-operated to improve economies
– ASEAN also established ties with other countries and associations to promote trade in the region
– Eg Japan has invested heavily in the region. Members have benefited from transfer of technology
– 1978 : Committee established to promote greater understanding and appreciation of culture and heritage of its members
– Cultural exchanges organised – film festivals, music and drama workshops, art exhibitions
2. Protect peace and stability of the region– Cambodia : Civil war in 1980s
– Fighting groups supported by countries outside ASEAN
– ASEAN and the UN persuaded the different groups in Cambodia to stop fighting and form a new democratic government
3. Provide opportunities for member countries to discuss and resolve differences peacefully– Differences over national boundaries, trade agreements, fishing rights and immigration
– Spratly Islands : Claimed by Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Vietnam
Issue not resolved to date; countries try to arrive at a peaceful solution
– Islands of Sipadan and Ligitan : claimed by Malaysia and Indonesia
– Pedra Branca : claimed by Singapore and Malaysia
– Countries involved in these disagreements choose to discuss their problems through negotiations and meetings
– At times, seek help from international organisations to settle disputes
– Eg UN International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the case of Pedra Branca
3.INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (IR)– UN serves the needs of all countries in the world
– Main mission : PRESERVE WORLD PEACE esp after two World Wars
– Founded in 1945 by the major powers of the world.
– Started with 51 members; 1999 : 188 members
3 Main Aims:
1. Providing help to countries in need
2. Giving a Voice to every member country
3. Safeguarding Peace and Stability
1. Providing help to countries in need– Helps countries facing immediate problems eg famines and earthquakes
– Sends food and medical aid
2. Giving a Voice to every member country– Members have a right to vote on decisions that may affect them
– An opportunity to voice grievances in the General Assembly
– General Assembly : Like a World Parliament where members can vote on various issues
3. Safeguarding Peace and Stability• UN sends peacekeeping forces to troubled areas:
– Comprise members from member countries
– Thus an international force
– Peacekeepers do not simply go to any troubled area
– Must first have the consent of UN members and the countries in conflict
– Main task of peacekeeping force : Ensure parties involved in an armed conflict observe the peace by keeping them apart and preventing them from fighting
– Peacekeepers must be neutral – not to side with any party involved in the conflict
The UN Security Council (SC):– Maintains peace and security among member countries
– Eg when war breaks out, it may issue stern warning to aggressor, organise a boycott or take military action to end the war
– 15 members in the SC
– 5 permanent members : China, the Russian Federation, the USA, the UK and France
– The remaining ten members are elected by the General Assembly for two-year term
• The UN International Court of Justice (ICJ):– ICJ helps member countries settle their disputes peacefully
– It is like a World Court where members can present their disputes
– Not compulsory for members to settle their disputes through ICJ
– However, when they do, they must abide by its decision
Singapore in ASEAN
• As a founding member, S’pore actively tries to maintain peace and prosperity in SEA
– eg Took on leadership role in ASEAN regional Forum (ARF)
– ARF provides opportunities for ASEAN and other countries :USA, China, Japan, Korea, Australia to discuss important issues
• S’pore also shares its technical knowledge and expertise with other ASEAN countries
– eg. training courses are arranged for those interested in learning from Singapore’s experience
– Set up training centres overseas eg. Technical training center set up in Vietnam in 1997 to help Vietnam industrilaise
– Also gives scholarships to ASEAN students to study in Singapore
Singapore in the UN
• Singapore : Member since independence in 1965.As a member, S’pore was given help and advice by UN experts on social and economic development
– Eg Dr Albert Winsemius, the economic expert who helped S’pore’s economy after independence
• Although a small country, S’pore’s membership enables us to voice our opinion on world affairs
– Since 1980 : S’pore sent over 400 police, SAF and civil service officers on UN peacekeeping missions to various countries
– 1995 : S’pore played an important role in the UN Law of the Sea Conference
The Conference was to decide on the territorial rights of a country over its waters. S’pore’s representative to the UN, Prof Tommy Koh chaired the conference
MILITARY DETERRENCE–
Diplomacy MAY resolve or prevent international disputes
– But it should not be seen as THE only way
– For diplomacy to be effective, it must be supported by military deterrence
– Frederick the Great said, “Diplomacy without military equipment is like music without instruments”
– Countries must therefore strengthen their diplomacy with military strength
– A country’s military strength will make a potential enemy think twice before attacking it
– It knows that if it continues with the attack, the other country will respond with all its military might. In the end, both sides will suffer enormous losses
SINGAPORE : Two-pronged approach–
Diplomacy and deterrence for Singapore’s defence
– Though bilateral ties, regional and international associations, we seek to co-operate with members of the international community
– But diplomacy is no guarantee of peace and security, especially for small countries like S’pore
– Singapore needs to ensure that its armed forces are powerful enough to deter ANY aggressor
SINGAPORE AND ITS USE OF DETERRENCE
1. A CITIZEN ARMED FORCES
• S’pore learnt the importance of establishing its own defence force through the Jap Occupation, the Indonesian Confrontation and the 1964 race riots
• Why a citizen armed forces ?
– In 1965, we could not afford a large professional army given our population of less than 2 million then
– Manpower was also needed in factories and industries
– We did not have the finances to support a professional army anyway
– Dr Goh Keng Swee was given the task of creating a competent defence force
– 1967 : National Service (NS) was introduced
– All 18-year-old able-bodied male citizens were called up for part-time or full-time NS
– These citizen soldiers were trained and commanded by a small regular force
– For S’pore, NS play a significant role in nation building
– Through it, Singaporeans learn to defend our country
– NS training is a good way of bonding together – common experience during training– Develop a sense of loyalty, patriotism and a shared destiny–
Upon completion of full-time NS, the men undergo training for 13 years for a maximum of 40 days a year
– Refresher training : To maintain competence in handling new weapons and equipment, to learn new tactics of war
– Ensures that they are ready to defend Singapore at ALL times
– Through NS, an effective SAF is produced despite our small size and population–
1965 : 50 officers, 1,000 men and 2 small naval vessels
– Today : The Army, the RSAF and the RSN
– 1965 to 82 : Concentrated on military defence
– 1983 : Civil Defence included
– 1984 : Total Defence part of defence policy
2. TOTAL DEFENCE
• Modern wars involve the entire population
• Through TD, the whole population has a part to play in ensuring S’pore’s security ie psychological defence, economic defence, social defence, civil defence and military defence.
• TD will deter the enemy
3. SINGAPORE’S DEFENCE INDUSTRIES
Why our own defence industries?
• To design weapons and military equipment suited to our own needs
– Our soldiers will then be able to fight more efficiently and effectively–
In the early years, S’pore faced a shortage of equipment and weapons
– Had to wait a long time for weapons to arrive
– Many were unsuitable for S’pore’s needs
• Countries unwilling to share defence technology
– Eg Electronic warfare
– Involves building an electronic shield around aircraft, ships and fighting vehicles to protect them from incoming threats
– We have to develop our own defence technology
– SDI made up of a few companies eg DTG (Defence Technology Group)
• Responsible for building up the fighting capabilities of the SAF
– Maintenance of weapon systems and equipment in the best possible conditions
– Also produce essential supplies of ammunition
• SDI able to modify and upgrade the performance of weapons and military equipment
– SAF upgrades its existing equipment if it is cost-effective
– Eg A-4 Skyhawks upgraded with new and more powerful engines
– To be an effective fighting force, the armed forces must use the latest technology and equipment
– SDI helps SAF to be self-reliant in essential defence weapons and equipment
4. MILITARY CO-OPERATION
– S’pore fosters friendly ties with armed forces of other countries
– Shortage of suitable training areas
- S’pore makes training arrangements with friendly countries:
– Bilateral and multilateral defence exercises
Bilateral Defence
Exercises and Training
– S’pore conducts exercises with ASEAN countries, Australia, NZ, India, Taiwan and USA
– Increases co-operation and strengthens ties among participating countries
– Australia – offers vast areas of open land for the training of the RSAF
– RSAF operates a Jet Flying Training School in Western Australia
– Aug 1998 – RSAF set up new training facility in Queensland
– Australia agreed to allow RSAF to train there for 15 years
– RSAF pilots, air crew and maintenance specialists will hone their skills as they will be exercising in an area 10 times the size of Singapore
Multilateral Defence Exercises
– FPDA (Five Power Defence Arrangements)
– Formed in 1971 to preserve peace in the region
– In the event of an external threat to Singapore or Malaysia, the members are to consult one another on the appropriate measures to be taken
– Could be carried out jointly or separately
– Although S’pore’s defence capabilities have improved since the 1970s, FPDA continues
to be relevant
CONCLUSION
– Diplomacy and deterrence has made Singapore confident of meeting any threats to its independence
– Poison shrimp? Puffer fish?
– Building a strong defence requires the commitment of the people and government
– It is also costly
– We can finance our defence only if Singapore develops its economy and is financially sound
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The following are just suggested answers. Please donot learn by heart. You need to understand.
Here are two strategies Singapore uses to deter an enemy attack:
Singapore’s Defence Industry
Citizens’ Army
Which do you think is the more effective? Explain your answer
Describe the strategy – Singapore’s Defence Industry
Singapore’s defence industry today is highly sophisticated and modern. In the early years, Singapore depended on imported weapons.
However, because these imported weapons were not suitable to Singapore’s needs, Singapore embarked on creating her own defence industry.
Furthermore, not all weapons could be bought as countries were not willing to share their defence technology like electronic warfare.
The Defence Technology Group is responsible for maintaining weapons systems and producing essential supplies and ammunition.
Explain why it is effective
All this helps to ensure that the SAF is ready to defend Singapore at all times. Therefore, the defence industry has played an important part in deterring an enemy attack because it has allowed the armed forces to be an effective fighting force with the use of the latest technology and weapons.
Describe the strategy – Citizens’ Army
Events in Singapore’s history like the Japanese Occupation and the Indonesian Confrontation have taught Singaporeans the importance of establishing their own defence force.
Because of manpower and economic constraints, Singapore cannot afford a large professional army.
As a result, all 18-year-old men who are able-bodied have to serve national service. Upon completion of their full-time National Service, the men undergo training for a further 13 years for a maximum of 40 days per year.
Explain why it is effective
Thus, national service has played a significant role in nation-building. It not only trains young men to fight for their country but has helped in developing a sense of loyalty, patriotism and a shared destiny.
Moreover because national service fosters racial harmony by requiring all males to go through similar experiences, the men identify themselves to a common purpose of protecting the country.
Therefore, a citizens’ army has played an important part in deterring an enemy attack because potential aggressors will have to face a ready and united force of well-trained soldiers.
Weighing the two factors
In the early days, it was important for Singapore to get it's own army as the Japanese War has shown that we cannot depend on other country like the British to defend us. During this early period, Singapore depended on imported weapons.
However, these imported weapons were not suitable to Singapore’s needs, Singapore embarked on creating her own defence industry.
Moreover not many countries would like to share these technology with Sinagpore.
As our citizen army is formed,it become mroe important for Sinagpore to have her own defence industry to deter an enemy attack. Having a citizen army without the state of the art weapon will only make the army weak and thus in effective in detering an enemy attack.
Therefore having a defence industry is mroe important then having a citizen army to deter an enemy attack.
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Below is not necesssary for you. Only for your reading pleasure
Additional Reading materials
Aug 20, 2007
Asean urged to muster political will to deal with forest fire haze
SOUTH-EAST Asian leaders were urged Monday to muster the political will to deal with the problem of forest fire haze that blankets the region regularly during their summit in Singapore later this year.
Regional think tanks, environmental groups and academics said the smog - caused mainly by burnings in Indonesia - is contributing significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions and could impact on climate change if left unchecked.
In a statement following a one-day dialogue here, the delegates acknowledged some 'positive steps' taken by Indonesia to deal with the problem, but said Jakarta and the region needed to do more.
'The dialogue called for Asean leaders to give attention to the haze,' said Simon Tay, chairman of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs, which co-organised the event.
He said the delegates welcomed the intention of the Association of South-east Asian Nations leaders to focus on environmental issues at their summit in Singapore in November, hoping 'that this would provide political will' to address the problem.
Mr Tay said the delegates, including those from the World Wildlife Fund, Greenpeace and Center for International Forestry, 'highlighted the connections between the regional haze pollution and fires and the global challenge of climate change'.
Smoggy haze from the fires on Indonesia's Sumatra and Kalimantan regions had sent air pollution levels in neighbouring Malaysia and Singapore to unhealthy levels several times last year.
While the haze has not affected major cities in the region this year, this was attributed mainly to the wet weather and favourable wind direction.
Sundari Ramakrishna, coordinator fo the Malaysian Environmental NGOs, said the Indonesian fires are expected to continue in the next 20-30 years if big palm oil plantations continue to clear peatlands to grow the plant.
Oil palm has a variety of uses, providing ingredients for disinfectants, pharmaceuticals, cooking oil, soap and biofuels. -- AFP
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Aug 21, 2007
REGIONAL DIALOGUE
'Lack of coordination' hurting anti-haze efforts
That's a key hurdle, say panellists, including those from Indonesia
By Tania Tan & Arti Mulchand
THE rainy weather may be keeping the skies clear of haze for now, but the region is not breathing easy yet.
A year after the worst haze to hit the region in over a decade, there remain more questions than answers, the panellists at the second Regional Dialogue on Transboundary Haze said yesterday.
'We've just been lucky,' said Associate Professor Simon Tay, chairman of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs, which co-organised the event.
Held at the Regent Hotel, the day-long dialogue noted that the efforts to tackle the perennial problem had been hamstrung by legal, economic and political obstacles.
One of the key concerns raised by participants, including representatives from Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia, was coordination.
'The word is not in our vocabulary,' said Dr Rizal Sukma, deputy executive director of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, an Indonesian think-tank.
He observed that the Indonesian ministries of forestry, agriculture and environment have taken steps to counter slash-and-burn practices in Sumatra and Kalimantan, where the haze originates.
But, at the same time, some six million hectares of new land has been allocated to the development of palm-oil plantations, largely dedicated to the burgeoning biofuel market.
Slash-and-burn practices in parts of this newly developed land cannot be ruled out.
And while Indonesia's Assistant Deputy Minister at the Environment Ministry, Mr Heddy Mukna, has said the country is likely to ratify the Asean Haze Agreement, 'maybe next year', the country's hesitation thus far has also cast a pall over efforts to stem the haze problem, said Dr Sukma.
Without binding agreements and sanctions, anti-haze actions become 'difficult to enforce', he said.
Signed five years ago, the anti-haze pact calls for member states to act to prevent and control burning that can pollute neighbouring countries. It has since been ratified by all the Asean countries except Indonesia and the Philippines.
A lack of funding also makes sustaining anti-haze practices an uphill task, with funds drying up before long-term change can be made, said Dr Sukma.
Mr Mukna said a notorious lack of law enforcement further compounds the problem.
Many areas in Sumatra and Kalimantan are 'very remote', making them 'difficult to police', he said.
But the picture is not entirely bleak.
In a new bottom-up approach, Indonesian provincial authorities have agreed to cooperate with Asean member states to work out detailed fire-prevention plans at a district level , with Malaysia working with Riau, and Singapore with Jambi.
Malaysia has pledged RM$2 million (S$874,000) to its project, while Singapore could be signing a letter of intent with Jambi as early as next month to put its haze masterplan into action.
The Indonesian government has pledged 100 billion rupiah (S$16 million) to each of its eight provinces to develop their own anti-haze initiatives.
What remains now is for regional governments to start looking at the haze as not just an environment concern, but an economic and public health problem, too.
The rain may have temporarily washed away concerns about the smog, but, as Prof Tay said in his summation: 'We must act now.'
taniat@sph.com.sg
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Aug 15, 2007
Hot spots up, but haze action plan still unsigned
No firm deadline yet on signing pact with S'pore, says deputy Indonesian minister
By Azhar Ghani
JAKARTA - THE annual land-clearing season is already under way, with the number of hot spots, which indicate burning on the ground, on the rise.
According to data from the Indonesian forestry authorities, the number of hot spots has been on the rise in Sumatra since the beginning of the month.
The increase in the number of hot spots was also noted by the National University of Singapore's Centre for Remote Imaging, Sensing and Processing (Crisp) - an outfit which monitors satellite images of the region for hot spots.
Mr Chia Aik Song, who heads Crisp's fire monitoring, told The Straits Times that the rise began 'a week ago'.
But bilateral efforts to contain the forest fires and curb the haze appear to have stalled.
Indonesian Deputy Environment Minister Masnellyarti Hilman told The Straits Times yesterday that an agreement to formalise the arrangement had yet to be signed.
This, despite Environment Minister Rachmat Witoelar saying in June that the Letter of Intent (LOI) would be signed last month.
The delay in the signing of the pact would effectively push back the proposed initiatives under a comprehensive anti-haze masterplan for Jambi province.
The province, located on the east coast of central Sumatra, is Singapore's collaborative partner under Indonesia's Asean-supported national plan to combat haze.
A key plank of the masterplan, which was developed jointly by both sides, involves fire-prevention measures.
These include providing alternative livelihoods for small-time farmers and also making it worthwhile for them not to burn cleared vegetation by teaching them to turn the waste into compost or charcoal.
But the plans, which were presented in June, were delayed when Indonesia insisted on the LOI as a pre-condition for full collaboration.
It said then that it needed to put down comprehensive details about the collaboration on paper.
This was to satisfy all government institutions that none of their rules or protocols would be breached.
Ms Masnellyarti said: 'We are communicating with our Singaporean counterparts and have given our input on what we want in the LOI. But there is no firm deadline yet.'
Meanwhile, land-clearing activities in several areas in Sumatra, including Jambi, appear to have picked up pace.
Yesterday's Kompas daily reported that Pekanbaru, the capital of Riau province, which is just north of Jambi, was shrouded in haze for the past two days.
The report said the smoke came from fires within Riau as well as from Jambi and South Sumatra province.
Although Kompas did not provide a pollutant level reading, the daily quoted the deputy head of Pekanbaru's health department, Dr Rini Hermiyati, as advising the city's residents to minimise outdoor activities.
Even though fires in Riau, Jambi and South Sumatra were largely responsible for the haze in Singapore last year, the Republic has not been affected thus far.
The reason, Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA) said yesterday, is that prevailing winds have kept the smoke away.
The Pollutant Standards Index (PSI), a measure of air quality, has so far remained in the 'good' range in Singapore. The prevailing winds are expected to continue in the same direction for the next few days and will keep the haze away from Singapore, the NEA said.
azhar@sph.com.sg
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Aug 21, 2007
Singapore sets itself three challenges as new Asean chairman
A key aim is to beef up Asean's support pillars - economic integration, regional security and socio-cultural ties
By Cheong Suk-Wai
AS ASEAN forges ahead 40 years on, a key task would be strengthening its three supporting pillars - that is, economic integration, regional security and socio-cultural ties.
That, said Foreign Minister George Yeo in a speech yesterday, is one of the three challenges Singapore has set itself as Asean's new chairman, a post it took over from the Philippines on Aug 2.
The other challenges are seeing the draft Asean Charter through to completion at the Asean Summit here in November, and getting all in Asean to tackle energy security, environmental protection and climate change head-on so that regional growth can be sustained.
Mr Yeo was opening the 41st Asean Standing Committee meeting here, the first in a series of Asean events that Singapore will host from now till next August, when it hands over the chairmanship to Thailand.
The committee itself is Asean's engine and comprises directors-general from each member country who meet quarterly to steer Asean's day-to-day operations. Mr Yeo likened it to 'an elaborate timepiece' which no one noticed when it ran like clockwork, but would jump if it did not work well.
Noting that Asean was trying to form its own single market by 2015, Mr Yeo pointed out: 'If only economic integration binds the grouping together, we can only go so far...diversions of national interest will pull us apart.'
He added: 'If security and socio-cultural (ties) were not strengthened simultaneously, then the pillars will crack.'
Asean Secretary-General Ong Keng Yong told The Straits Times that, as chairman, the Republic will set a tone that is 'very business-like' and 'particular about processes'. 'Nobody disagrees with what Singapore has said,' he added. 'The only concern is the pace of change. Should we do it tomorrow or next week?'
Mr Yeo revealed that Asean foreign ministers will study the draft charter here some time next month'before the finishing touches are put to it' for members to sign it at the upcoming Asean Summit.
Meanwhile, Mr Ong said that Asean economic ministers will be kept busy later this week, studying the draft economic blueprint for a single market.
Amid such big developments, Mr Yeo said yesterday that Singapore felt a 'heavy responsibility' on its shoulders.
Mr Yeo's call for a rounded Asean community was echoed by Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi yesterday when he opened the 28th Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (Aipa) in Kuala Lumpur.
Nineteen Singapore MPs, led by Speaker of Parliament Abdullah Tarmugi, were at this four-day meet for regional lawmakers. At the meet, the Singapore Speaker noted that Aipa could help foster the Asean community by accelerating the passing of laws to enforce contracts as well as by being a regional forum to exchange best practices.
Yesterday, Aipa also honoured Mr Abdullah's predecessor, three-time Aipa president Tan Soo Khoon, with its Distinguished Services Award, a warm prelude to Singapore taking over the Aipa presidency from Malaysia on Friday.
suk@sph.com.sg
PM: Bilateral issues best settled by international law
OUTSTANDING bilateral issues between Singapore and Malaysia are best put aside for now to focus on new areas of cooperation, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong told visiting Asean journalists on Friday.
If there are issues which have to be settled, they should be resolved according to international law and treaties, he added.
One such issue is the longstanding territorial dispute over Pedra Branca island, located at the eastern entrance of the Singapore Strait.
Both countries have agreed to take the matter to the International Court of Justice and the case will be heard in November.
'The old issues, we just let it be,' Mr Lee said during the interview, in response to a question from a Malaysian journalist.
'If they have to be resolved, go according to the law and the treaties because that's non-contentious and both sides can accept it, and it doesn't lead to any loss of face or commitment,' he said.
On the Pedra Branca case, Mr Lee hoped Malaysia would accept the court's decision if it was in Singapore's favour.
He said he was sure Singapore would accept one in Malaysia's favour.
As for the other outstanding bilateral issues, Mr Lee said there were no specific items among them that he urgently wanted to settle.
The issues include Malayan Railway land, the use of Malaysian airspace by the Republic of Singapore Air Force, the price of water from Johor and a bridge to replace the Causeway.
Mr Lee said if they had been easy to resolve, his predecessor Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, and Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, from whom Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi took over, would already have done so.
'I do not see myself being able to do better than Mr Goh Chok Tong. And I don't think it would be easier for Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi to do better than Dr Mahathir, because what Dr Mahathir could not give, Datuk Seri Abdullah cannot give,' he said.
Turning to government-to-government cooperation on the Iskandar Development Region in Johor, Mr Lee said there had been some reaction within Malaysia to the setting up of a joint ministerial committee.
To prevent misunderstanding, Singapore has decided to proceed at the pace that Malaysia is comfortable with.
'We will let Malaysia take the lead...In other areas, I think we should proceed like that too, because otherwise, if we push too hard, there might be some misinterpretation,' he said.
Mr Lee was also asked whether Singapore and Indonesia's differences over an extradition treaty and defence pact could be overcome.
He said that Singapore had suggested a way forward and was waiting for Jakarta to respond.
But the matter had become politicised in the Indonesian Parliament, so Singapore would wait until Indonesia reached a consensus to proceed, he said.
Aug 12, 2007 Straits Time By Lynn Lee
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Aug 29, 2007
Army to boost their inventory with unmanned aerial vehicles
THE air force has them, the navy has them, and soon, the army will get its hands on them - by year's end.
They are small remotely controlled unmanned vehicles that can go where no man can go to, or might want to.
The air force and the army call theirs UAVs, or unmanned aerial vehicles.
While the pilotless planes already in the flyboys' inventory have wingspans nearly as long as two car lengths, the army's will be so small they can fit into a backpack.
Size apart, all UAVs serve a vital mission: they help ground forces see further upfield, and can go into enemy territory to gather information without risk to soldiers.
The army started experimenting with low-cost mini-UAVs two years ago. By the end of the year, army units down to the battalion level will be getting mini-UAVs fitted with surveillance cameras.
The Chief of Army, Major-General Neo Kian Hong, said on Monday the army will be increasing the use of UAVs from battalion-level up.
He said the UAVs 'will be able to give information to ground forces in a real-time fashion, to allow them to fight in a more effective way'.
The Ministry of Defence said that the units involved in reconnaissance will be among those to train in UAVs.
The adoption of new technologies such as mini-UAVs is in line with the transformation of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) into a third-generation, high-tech, force over the next decade.
It will be an SAF relying on fewer but better educated soldiers adept at handling advanced, precision technology.
Thus, unmanned systems that can fly, sail or swim are a rapidly advancing area to enhance the SAF's capabilities.
________________________________________________________________________________
OSA: Keeping the Peace: Diplomacy & Deterrence
To what extent did concerns with peacekeeping lead to the formation of the UN? Explain your answer. [12]
Level 1
Writes about the factor but without focus on the question
1m for each detail, to a maximum of 2m
Level 2
Describes the given factor OR/AND Disagrees and identifies other factors
E.g.
Agrees, and describes the given factor
OR
Disagrees, identifies & describes other factors
3-4
Level 3
Explains the given factor OR other factors.
Award 4m for an explanation of how the given factor was important and an additional mark for each supporting detail, to a maximum of 6m.
E.g.
The Un was formed to maintain peace as the League of Nations took too long to make decisions and peace was broken. E.g. In 1931 the Japanese invaded Manchuria. The League sent a commission under Lord Lytton to investigate. It stated that the invasion was unlawful and Japan had to withdraw. Japan was defiant and left the League in 1933. Manchuria was conquered within a week. 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. Britain and France were not willing to commit troops. At no time did troops ever fight on behalf of the League.
The outbreak of WW2 showed that peace was not maintained by the League. The immediate cause was Hitler’s invasion of Poland. Britain and France must share some for the responsibility because they chose to give in to Hitler’s demands making Hitler bolder in his demands and actions. Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbour in 1941 also exposed 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.
OR
No, there were other concerns.
E.g. The World Health Organisation (WHO) aims 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.
Food & Agricultural Org. (FAO)
Aims to raise standards by encouraging improvements in agricultural production. Introduces new varieties of maize and rice which have a higher yield and are less susceptible to disease. Shows 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.
4-6
Award 4m for an explanation of an alternative reason and additional mark for each supporting detail to a max of 6m.
(Do not award 6m unless more than 1 reason is dealt with.)
Level 4
Both elements of L3 7-10
Level 5
L4 + discusses the relative importance of the different factors.
Peacekeeping as compared to humanitarian aid 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 that humanitarian help. Humanitarian aid is less important because it depends a great deal on the peacekeeping measures. If peace could be enforced, there is no need for humanitarian help.
11-12
================================================================================
“Total Defence is best for Singapore’s defence and security.” How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer. [13]
Level 1
Writes about the topic but without focus on the question.
Level 2
Agrees or Disagree + Identifies reasons.
Award 3m for describing 1 given factor.
Award 4m for describing both given factors, and an additional mark for further details on either factor, to a maximum of 5m.
E.g.
Yes or No, about citizen armed force.
Level 3
Agrees or Disagree + Identifies reasons.
Total Defence is best as it involves the entire population.
Level 4
Explains reason for Agreement OR Disagreement.
Award 6m for an explanation of the given factor and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 8m.
E.g.
Yes
Total Defence is best as it involves the entire population. Civilian population has to be prepared for its defence and security. Singaporeans deter potential aggressors by showing that all Singaporeans are prepared for defence in all areas. This will present a more united front to the outside world and deter them from wanting to attack Singapore as ti would be more challenging.
OR
No
It is not just total defence but a citizen armed force that protected Singapore. Through NS introduced, all able-bodied male citizens were called up for a part-time or full-time NS. These soldiers were trained and commanded by a small regular force. They see their training as a good way of bonding together. Singapore had greater security because Singaporeans learn to defend their own country and develop a sense of loyalty, patriotism and a shared destiny.
Others:
Defence Industry.
Military Cooperation
Level 5
Both aspects of L4
Award 9m for an explanation of given factor AND other factors and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 11m.
Level 5
Reaches a balanced conclusion based on explanation of factors in L4.
E.g.
Weigh the factors by explaining which factor is stronger than the other based on impact or time.
In conclusion, Total Defence is more important than the Citizen’s Armed Force as more people are involved in the defence of Singapore. Total Defence can provide greater security by involving the entire population and not just the NS soldiers.
====================================================================================
How far is the peace and security of Singapore dependent on the role of the Singapore Armed Forces to deter potential aggressors?
Explain your answer
Level 1
Writes about the given factor ( SAF) but without focus on the question
Award one mark for each detail, to a maximum of 2 marks
Eg : The Singapore Armed Forces is a modern professional army that is capable of deterring potential aggressors. It is made up mainly of conscripts……. 1-2
Level 2
Identifies alternative factors
Award 3 marks for identifying one alternative factor, and an additional mark for identifying other alternative factors
Eg :
The concept of Total Defence encompassing all sectors of society will help to ensure peace and security for Singapore.
The use of diplomacy to ensure that disputes with neighbouring states can be resolved peacefully. 3-4
Level 3
Explains the given factor or other factor(s)
Award 4 marks for an explanation of the given factor and an additional mark for further supporting details, to a maximum of 6 marks
Eg : This concept of deterrance is part of the Singapore Amred Forces (SAF) strategy to protect Singapore. The SAF will and can use force effectively if Singapore’s interest is threatened. Mr Goh Chok Tong, the former Prime Minster likened the SAF to a poisoned shrimp in a vast ocean. Other sea creatures will not dare to eat this brightly coloured shrimp as it will also die in the process.
Likewise, although the SAF is smaller than many armed forces, through its willingness to use force, friends and potential foes alike will have to think very carefully before even attempting to attack Singapore.
Thus, the SAF’s willingness and capability to use force is a strong reason why Singapore enjoyed peace and security since independence. However, there are other reasons too……..
OR
Award 4 marks for an explanation of an alternative factor(s) and another an additional mark for supporting details/explanation of other reason(s), to a maximum of 6 marks.
Note : Where other reasons are concerned, do not award the highest mark unless more than one reason is dealt with
Eg :
Although the SAF is important in securing Singapore’s security and peace, the concept of Total Defence cannot be neglected as the use of military force is only one aspect of modern warfare. The concept of Total Defence encompasses Economic, Social, Psychological, Civil and Military Defence. Total Defence provides the framework for a comprehensive and integrated response to deal with all kinds of threats and challenges. Whether it is a security threat such as global terrorism, or a national crisis like SARS, Total Defence brings together all relevant government agencies, private sector organisations and all Singaporeans in a total effort to deal with threats and challenges to Singapore's continued survival and success. When Singaporeans take National Service seriously, volunteer in civil defence exercises, help to keep the economy going, build strong ties with one another regardless of race and religion, and stay committed to defend the country, Singaporeans are doing something in every sector of our society to strengthen Singapore's resilience as a nation. This in turn helps to unite the nation and helps to ensure that security and peace is assured.
Another means of ensuring that Singapore continues to enjoy peace and security is through the use of diplomacy. Through participation in regional and global organizations like ASEAN and the United Nations, Singapore can have a forum where its views on issues are made known. If there are any disputes with Singapore and other countries, diplomacy can help resolve issues peacefully. A case in point is the dispute over the status of Pedra Branca between Singapore and Malaysia. Here, both parties have agreed to refer the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for mediation. Also diplomacy can help Singapore cooperate with other countries to combat transnational terrorism as well as cross border crimes which threatens all countries. Thus, diplomacy is an effective means to ensure that Singapore can coexist peacefully with other countries and tackle problems like terrorism which can cause harm to us. 4-6
Level 4
Both aspects of L3
Award 7 marks for an explanation of the given factor and identification/description of alternative factor(s)
Award 8-10 marks for explanations of the given factor AND other factor(s)
Note : Where other reasons are concerned, do not award the highest mark unless more than one reason is dealt with 7-10
Level 5
L4 + Discusses the relative importance of the different factors Award 11 marks for answers that explain why the given factor had more or less impact compared to the other factors. Award 12 marks for showing how the various factors are interlinked
11-12
==================================================================================
“The role of the United Nations is mainly focused on maintaining peace among
countries in conflict.” How far do you agree with this statement?
Explain your answer.
Level 1
Writes about the given factor but without focus on the question
Award one mark for each detail, to a maximum of 2 marks
Eg :
The United Nations is grouping formed in 1945 with the express aim of achieving world peace. It has a current membership of 199 countries.. 1-2
Level2
Agrees OR disagrees, and identifies other reason(s)
Award 3 marks for identifying one reason for agreeing OR disagreeing. Award 4 marks for identifying two reasons for agreeing OR disagreeing
Eg :
Agreement
Since 1945, the United Nations have stopped many wars, for instance, between India and Pakistan and the war between Israeli-Arab Wars of 1947 and 1973 through resolutions passed by the UN Security Council (UNSC)
Peacekeeping forces authorized by the UNSC help to maintain peace in hotspots around the world by keeping belligerent parties apart.
The United Nations has a body such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is being done to achieve a peaceful and stable international peaceful environment.
OR
Disagreement
The United Nations has many bodies such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) where work is done to ensure that the lives of people in the poorer countries are being improved.
The United Nations has become a platform where countries can voice their opinions and disagreements without having to resort to force. 3-4
Level 3
Agrees AND Disagrees, and identifies reasons
Award 4 marks for identifying one reason for agreeing AND disagreeing. Award 5 marks for identifying two reasons for agreeing AND disagreeing. 4-5
Level 4
Explains reasons for Agreement OR Disagreement
Award 6 marks for an explanation of why the UN was not effective in preventing conflict, and an additional mark for each supporting detail, to a maximum of 8 marks
Agreement Since 1945, the United Nations have stopped many wars, for instance, between India and Pakistan and the war between Israeli-Arab Wars of 1947 and 1973. These countries were incapable of stopping the conflict on their own and UN had to step in to mediate between these parties and get them to stop fighting. The United Nations then send peacekeeping forces to keep these belligerents apart such as in Cyprus and in Kashmir. Thus, many countries still see the U N as a reliable neutral party where they can trust to mediate their differences and bring fighting to a stop. In this context, the U N is definitely a effective force in stopping conflict and thus regaining peace in many parts of the world.
The United Nations has become a platform where countries can voice their opinions and disagreements without having to resort to force. Here, in the General Assembly, countries big or small can let their feelings be known and debate about issues without having to resort to armed conflict. This is a form of diplomacy where reason takes the place of brute force in resolving conflicts. If the UN were not present, many wars would have broken out due to the lack of a forum to debate issues peacefully.
Finally, the UN also has a body like the International Court of Justice where countries can refer their disputes for mediation as well as the all powerful Security Council where the Council members can order warring parties to stop fighting or even threaten the use of sanctions or the threat of force in order to stop fighting. The Korean War was a case in point where the UN intervened to stop the North Korean aggression against the South Koreans. Thus, one can see that the United Nations has shown that it has been successful on many occasions to secure world peace.
OR
Award 6 marks for an explanation of why the UN has been effective in preventing conflict., and an additional mark for each supporting detail, to a maximum of 8 marks
Note : Do not award the highest mark unless more than one reason is dealt with
Disagreement
The United Nations has many bodies such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) where work is done to ensure that the lives of people in the poorer countries are being improved. These bodies render much needed aid to places affected by natural disasters, thus helping to alleviate the sufferings of the people in many parts of the world. A good example is the UN’s response to the 2004 Indian Tsunami Disaster which affected over 200 000 people in many countries. Other UN bodies like the World Health Organisation (WHO) for instance, help to coordinate health issues in order to prevent epidemics from spreading globally. Thus, the UN’s role is to ensure that the world becomes a better place to live in for all.
The United Nations has become a platform where countries can voice their opinions and disagreements without having to resort to force. Here, in the General Assembly, countries big or small can let their feelings be known and debate about issues that concern them. This is a form of diplomacy where reason takes the place of brute force in resolving conflicts. In the General Assembly, each country is given equal opportunities to have their views heard. Thus, the UN ‘s role as a global platform is a means for diplomacy. 6-8
Level 5 Both aspects of L4
Award 9 marks to answers which have an explanation of why the United Nations is a failure in its mission OR why is not a failure and identifying alternative reason(s).
Award 10-11 marks for an explanation of why the UN is a failure AND why it is not. 9-11
Level 6
Reaches a balanced conclusion based on explanation of reasons in L5 12-13
==================================================================================
How far was the success of ASEAN due to its emphasis on the non-use
of force in solving disputes among ASEAN members? Explain your
answer. [12]
L1 Writes about ASEAN 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 its emphasis on the non-use of force in solving disputes among ASEAN members as a reason for the success of ASEAN, and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 6m.
E.g. ASEAN emphasis on the non-use of force is linked to its second aim, which is to protect the peace and stability of the region.
This is practised in two ways, firstly in preventing the spread of any local conflict throughout the ASEAN region. For example, when a civil war broke in Cambodia in 1980s and those fighting are supported by countries outside of ASEAN, , ASEAN and the United Nations persuaded the different groups in Cambodia to stop fighting and instead find a peaceful solution. This led to the forming of a new democratic government.
Secondly, when ASEAN members are in dispute with one another over matters such as national boundaries, trade agreements, fishing rights and immigration cases, ASEAN provide opportunities for these members to meet, discuss and resolve the disputes peacefully.
One example is the dispute over the Spratly Islands which are claimed by Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Vietnam.
All in all, we can see that its emphasis on the non-use of force has led to the success of ASEAN. In preventing the civil war in Cambodia to worsen which will involve countries outside of ASEAN, it has successfully maintained peace and stability in the region and prevented outsiders from interfering in the region.
The peaceful discussion and resolution of disputes among member countries also contributed to the peace and stability in the region.
Ultimately, this led to growing confidence among members and also growing respect among other international and regional groups in the world on ASEAN’s capability to maintain peace and stability in the ASEAN region.
OR
Award 4m for an explanation of an alternative reason for merger, and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 6m.
E.g. Apart from its emphasis on the non-use of force, there are other factors that contributed to the success of ASEAN.
Firstly is the desire among its members to promote economic, social and cultural
development of the region. ASEAN members have co-operated to improve their economies and also established ties with other countries and associations to promote trade in the region.
One example is ASEAN link with Japan which has invested heavily in ASEAN countries. This economic cooperation among members and with major investing countries such as Japan and USA led to economic prosperity in the ASEAN region and the transfer of technology from Japan to ASEAN members.
Secondly, ASEAN actively promotes the culture and heritage of its member countries. For example, in 1978, ASEAN established the ASEAN COCI (Committee on Culture and Information) to promote co-operation in culture and information among its members. Cultural exchanges such as film festivals, music and drama workshops and art exhibitions have been organised. This has led to a strengthening of mutual understanding and a feeling of unity among the people of ASEAN which will reduce suspicion and ill-feeling among members.
L4 Both elements of L3.
Award 7m to answer that give explanation of the success of Asian & identify/describe other factor(s).
Award 8-10m for explanation of a given factor, 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
===================================================================================
(d) “Singapore’s defence efforts are more effective than its diplomatic efforts to ensure its independence.’ How far do you agree with
this statement? Explain your answer. [13]
L1 Writes about Singapore’s defence 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. Singapore’s defence efforts are more effective than its diplomatic efforts to ensure its independence from any foreign invasion or rule. Since leaving Malaysia in 1965, Singapore has built its defence capabilities from scratch until the present-day when it is acknowledged that Singapore’s defence is one of the best in Asia. This effective defence system has deterred other countries from ‘bullying’ or threatening Singapore’s independence.
Some examples are the tension between Singapore and Malaysia and Indonesia when Singapore managed to maintain its pride and independence despite being pressured by its larger neighbours.
L3 Agrees AND Disagrees, + identifies reasons.
E.g. No. Bilateral, regional and international diplomacy has allowed Singapore to be linked with its immediate neighbours, regional countries and international community through trade agreements, defence pacts and cultural and social exchanges. This has been effective in maintaining Singapore’s independence as any dispute or disagreement with its neighbours or other countries can be resolved through diplomatic discussions and negotiations.
L4 Explains reasons for Agreement OR Disagreement.
Award 6m for an explanation of why the defence efforts are more effective in maintaining Singapore’s independence, and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 8m.
E.g Since leaving Malaysia in 1965, Singapore has built its defence capabilities from scratch until the present-day when it is acknowledged that Singapore’s defence system is one of the best in Asia. This effective defence system has deterred other countries from ‘bullying’ or threatening Singapore’s independence.
Some examples are the tension between Singapore and Malaysia and Indonesia when Singapore managed to maintain its pride and independence despite being pressured by its larger neighbours.
Singapore’s diplomatic effort would be ineffective if it is not backed up by its defence or military capability. Any potential aggressor would think twice before attacking Singapore as it is well-known that Singapore’s military strength is capable of causing great losses and damage to any aggressor. Its defence efforts has also created a sense of unity and loyalty among its citizens, especially through NS and Total Defence. Instilled with this sense of loyalty and belonging to the country, Singaporeans would work together and be committed to maintain the independence of Singapore.
OR
Award 6m for an explanation of why diplomatic efforts are more effective in maintaining Singapore’s independence, and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 8m.
E.g. Bilateral, regional and international diplomacy has allowed Singapore to be linked with its immediate neighbours, regional countries and international community through trade agreements, defence pacts and cultural and social exchanges.
This has been effective in maintaining Singapore’s independence as any dispute or disagreement with its neighbours or other countries can be resolved through diplomatic discussions and negotiations.
One example is the dispute over Pedra Branca with Malaysia and the sand and granite disagreement with Indonesia. Through diplomatic negotiations, Singapore and Malaysia decided to refer their dispute over Pedra Branca to the International Court of Justice. Instead of raising tensions and escalating the problems further which could possibly lead to armed conflict, Singapore relies on diplomatic efforts to resolve these problems which ultimately would maintain her independence. Through diplomacy, Singapore hopes to make as many friends and as few enemies as possible..
L5 Both aspects of L4
Award 9m for an explanation of why defence OR diplomatic efforts are more effective in maintaining Singapore’s independence and identify alternative reason(s).
Award 10m for an explanation of why defence AND diplomatic efforts are more effective in maintaining Singapore’s independence.
9-11
L6 Reaches a balanced conclusion based on explanation of factors in L5.
12-13
Level 1
Writes about the factor but without focus on the question
1m for each detail, to a maximum of 2m
Level 2
Describes the given factor OR/AND Disagrees and identifies other factors
E.g.
Agrees, and describes the given factor
OR
Disagrees, identifies & describes other factors
3-4
Level 3
Explains the given factor OR other factors.
Award 4m for an explanation of how the given factor was important and an additional mark for each supporting detail, to a maximum of 6m.
E.g.
The Un was formed to maintain peace as the League of Nations took too long to make decisions and peace was broken. E.g. In 1931 the Japanese invaded Manchuria. The League sent a commission under Lord Lytton to investigate. It stated that the invasion was unlawful and Japan had to withdraw. Japan was defiant and left the League in 1933. Manchuria was conquered within a week. 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. Britain and France were not willing to commit troops. At no time did troops ever fight on behalf of the League.
The outbreak of WW2 showed that peace was not maintained by the League. The immediate cause was Hitler’s invasion of Poland. Britain and France must share some for the responsibility because they chose to give in to Hitler’s demands making Hitler bolder in his demands and actions. Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbour in 1941 also exposed 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.
OR
No, there were other concerns.
E.g. The World Health Organisation (WHO) aims 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.
Food & Agricultural Org. (FAO)
Aims to raise standards by encouraging improvements in agricultural production. Introduces new varieties of maize and rice which have a higher yield and are less susceptible to disease. Shows 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.
4-6
Award 4m for an explanation of an alternative reason and additional mark for each supporting detail to a max of 6m.
(Do not award 6m unless more than 1 reason is dealt with.)
Level 4
Both elements of L3 7-10
Level 5
L4 + discusses the relative importance of the different factors.
Peacekeeping as compared to humanitarian aid 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 that humanitarian help. Humanitarian aid is less important because it depends a great deal on the peacekeeping measures. If peace could be enforced, there is no need for humanitarian help.
11-12
================================================================================
“Total Defence is best for Singapore’s defence and security.” How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer. [13]
Level 1
Writes about the topic but without focus on the question.
Level 2
Agrees or Disagree + Identifies reasons.
Award 3m for describing 1 given factor.
Award 4m for describing both given factors, and an additional mark for further details on either factor, to a maximum of 5m.
E.g.
Yes or No, about citizen armed force.
Level 3
Agrees or Disagree + Identifies reasons.
Total Defence is best as it involves the entire population.
Level 4
Explains reason for Agreement OR Disagreement.
Award 6m for an explanation of the given factor and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 8m.
E.g.
Yes
Total Defence is best as it involves the entire population. Civilian population has to be prepared for its defence and security. Singaporeans deter potential aggressors by showing that all Singaporeans are prepared for defence in all areas. This will present a more united front to the outside world and deter them from wanting to attack Singapore as ti would be more challenging.
OR
No
It is not just total defence but a citizen armed force that protected Singapore. Through NS introduced, all able-bodied male citizens were called up for a part-time or full-time NS. These soldiers were trained and commanded by a small regular force. They see their training as a good way of bonding together. Singapore had greater security because Singaporeans learn to defend their own country and develop a sense of loyalty, patriotism and a shared destiny.
Others:
Defence Industry.
Military Cooperation
Level 5
Both aspects of L4
Award 9m for an explanation of given factor AND other factors and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 11m.
Level 5
Reaches a balanced conclusion based on explanation of factors in L4.
E.g.
Weigh the factors by explaining which factor is stronger than the other based on impact or time.
In conclusion, Total Defence is more important than the Citizen’s Armed Force as more people are involved in the defence of Singapore. Total Defence can provide greater security by involving the entire population and not just the NS soldiers.
====================================================================================
How far is the peace and security of Singapore dependent on the role of the Singapore Armed Forces to deter potential aggressors?
Explain your answer
Level 1
Writes about the given factor ( SAF) but without focus on the question
Award one mark for each detail, to a maximum of 2 marks
Eg : The Singapore Armed Forces is a modern professional army that is capable of deterring potential aggressors. It is made up mainly of conscripts……. 1-2
Level 2
Identifies alternative factors
Award 3 marks for identifying one alternative factor, and an additional mark for identifying other alternative factors
Eg :
The concept of Total Defence encompassing all sectors of society will help to ensure peace and security for Singapore.
The use of diplomacy to ensure that disputes with neighbouring states can be resolved peacefully. 3-4
Level 3
Explains the given factor or other factor(s)
Award 4 marks for an explanation of the given factor and an additional mark for further supporting details, to a maximum of 6 marks
Eg : This concept of deterrance is part of the Singapore Amred Forces (SAF) strategy to protect Singapore. The SAF will and can use force effectively if Singapore’s interest is threatened. Mr Goh Chok Tong, the former Prime Minster likened the SAF to a poisoned shrimp in a vast ocean. Other sea creatures will not dare to eat this brightly coloured shrimp as it will also die in the process.
Likewise, although the SAF is smaller than many armed forces, through its willingness to use force, friends and potential foes alike will have to think very carefully before even attempting to attack Singapore.
Thus, the SAF’s willingness and capability to use force is a strong reason why Singapore enjoyed peace and security since independence. However, there are other reasons too……..
OR
Award 4 marks for an explanation of an alternative factor(s) and another an additional mark for supporting details/explanation of other reason(s), to a maximum of 6 marks.
Note : Where other reasons are concerned, do not award the highest mark unless more than one reason is dealt with
Eg :
Although the SAF is important in securing Singapore’s security and peace, the concept of Total Defence cannot be neglected as the use of military force is only one aspect of modern warfare. The concept of Total Defence encompasses Economic, Social, Psychological, Civil and Military Defence. Total Defence provides the framework for a comprehensive and integrated response to deal with all kinds of threats and challenges. Whether it is a security threat such as global terrorism, or a national crisis like SARS, Total Defence brings together all relevant government agencies, private sector organisations and all Singaporeans in a total effort to deal with threats and challenges to Singapore's continued survival and success. When Singaporeans take National Service seriously, volunteer in civil defence exercises, help to keep the economy going, build strong ties with one another regardless of race and religion, and stay committed to defend the country, Singaporeans are doing something in every sector of our society to strengthen Singapore's resilience as a nation. This in turn helps to unite the nation and helps to ensure that security and peace is assured.
Another means of ensuring that Singapore continues to enjoy peace and security is through the use of diplomacy. Through participation in regional and global organizations like ASEAN and the United Nations, Singapore can have a forum where its views on issues are made known. If there are any disputes with Singapore and other countries, diplomacy can help resolve issues peacefully. A case in point is the dispute over the status of Pedra Branca between Singapore and Malaysia. Here, both parties have agreed to refer the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for mediation. Also diplomacy can help Singapore cooperate with other countries to combat transnational terrorism as well as cross border crimes which threatens all countries. Thus, diplomacy is an effective means to ensure that Singapore can coexist peacefully with other countries and tackle problems like terrorism which can cause harm to us. 4-6
Level 4
Both aspects of L3
Award 7 marks for an explanation of the given factor and identification/description of alternative factor(s)
Award 8-10 marks for explanations of the given factor AND other factor(s)
Note : Where other reasons are concerned, do not award the highest mark unless more than one reason is dealt with 7-10
Level 5
L4 + Discusses the relative importance of the different factors Award 11 marks for answers that explain why the given factor had more or less impact compared to the other factors. Award 12 marks for showing how the various factors are interlinked
11-12
==================================================================================
“The role of the United Nations is mainly focused on maintaining peace among
countries in conflict.” How far do you agree with this statement?
Explain your answer.
Level 1
Writes about the given factor but without focus on the question
Award one mark for each detail, to a maximum of 2 marks
Eg :
The United Nations is grouping formed in 1945 with the express aim of achieving world peace. It has a current membership of 199 countries.. 1-2
Level2
Agrees OR disagrees, and identifies other reason(s)
Award 3 marks for identifying one reason for agreeing OR disagreeing. Award 4 marks for identifying two reasons for agreeing OR disagreeing
Eg :
Agreement
Since 1945, the United Nations have stopped many wars, for instance, between India and Pakistan and the war between Israeli-Arab Wars of 1947 and 1973 through resolutions passed by the UN Security Council (UNSC)
Peacekeeping forces authorized by the UNSC help to maintain peace in hotspots around the world by keeping belligerent parties apart.
The United Nations has a body such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is being done to achieve a peaceful and stable international peaceful environment.
OR
Disagreement
The United Nations has many bodies such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) where work is done to ensure that the lives of people in the poorer countries are being improved.
The United Nations has become a platform where countries can voice their opinions and disagreements without having to resort to force. 3-4
Level 3
Agrees AND Disagrees, and identifies reasons
Award 4 marks for identifying one reason for agreeing AND disagreeing. Award 5 marks for identifying two reasons for agreeing AND disagreeing. 4-5
Level 4
Explains reasons for Agreement OR Disagreement
Award 6 marks for an explanation of why the UN was not effective in preventing conflict, and an additional mark for each supporting detail, to a maximum of 8 marks
Agreement Since 1945, the United Nations have stopped many wars, for instance, between India and Pakistan and the war between Israeli-Arab Wars of 1947 and 1973. These countries were incapable of stopping the conflict on their own and UN had to step in to mediate between these parties and get them to stop fighting. The United Nations then send peacekeeping forces to keep these belligerents apart such as in Cyprus and in Kashmir. Thus, many countries still see the U N as a reliable neutral party where they can trust to mediate their differences and bring fighting to a stop. In this context, the U N is definitely a effective force in stopping conflict and thus regaining peace in many parts of the world.
The United Nations has become a platform where countries can voice their opinions and disagreements without having to resort to force. Here, in the General Assembly, countries big or small can let their feelings be known and debate about issues without having to resort to armed conflict. This is a form of diplomacy where reason takes the place of brute force in resolving conflicts. If the UN were not present, many wars would have broken out due to the lack of a forum to debate issues peacefully.
Finally, the UN also has a body like the International Court of Justice where countries can refer their disputes for mediation as well as the all powerful Security Council where the Council members can order warring parties to stop fighting or even threaten the use of sanctions or the threat of force in order to stop fighting. The Korean War was a case in point where the UN intervened to stop the North Korean aggression against the South Koreans. Thus, one can see that the United Nations has shown that it has been successful on many occasions to secure world peace.
OR
Award 6 marks for an explanation of why the UN has been effective in preventing conflict., and an additional mark for each supporting detail, to a maximum of 8 marks
Note : Do not award the highest mark unless more than one reason is dealt with
Disagreement
The United Nations has many bodies such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) where work is done to ensure that the lives of people in the poorer countries are being improved. These bodies render much needed aid to places affected by natural disasters, thus helping to alleviate the sufferings of the people in many parts of the world. A good example is the UN’s response to the 2004 Indian Tsunami Disaster which affected over 200 000 people in many countries. Other UN bodies like the World Health Organisation (WHO) for instance, help to coordinate health issues in order to prevent epidemics from spreading globally. Thus, the UN’s role is to ensure that the world becomes a better place to live in for all.
The United Nations has become a platform where countries can voice their opinions and disagreements without having to resort to force. Here, in the General Assembly, countries big or small can let their feelings be known and debate about issues that concern them. This is a form of diplomacy where reason takes the place of brute force in resolving conflicts. In the General Assembly, each country is given equal opportunities to have their views heard. Thus, the UN ‘s role as a global platform is a means for diplomacy. 6-8
Level 5 Both aspects of L4
Award 9 marks to answers which have an explanation of why the United Nations is a failure in its mission OR why is not a failure and identifying alternative reason(s).
Award 10-11 marks for an explanation of why the UN is a failure AND why it is not. 9-11
Level 6
Reaches a balanced conclusion based on explanation of reasons in L5 12-13
==================================================================================
How far was the success of ASEAN due to its emphasis on the non-use
of force in solving disputes among ASEAN members? Explain your
answer. [12]
L1 Writes about ASEAN 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 its emphasis on the non-use of force in solving disputes among ASEAN members as a reason for the success of ASEAN, and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 6m.
E.g. ASEAN emphasis on the non-use of force is linked to its second aim, which is to protect the peace and stability of the region.
This is practised in two ways, firstly in preventing the spread of any local conflict throughout the ASEAN region. For example, when a civil war broke in Cambodia in 1980s and those fighting are supported by countries outside of ASEAN, , ASEAN and the United Nations persuaded the different groups in Cambodia to stop fighting and instead find a peaceful solution. This led to the forming of a new democratic government.
Secondly, when ASEAN members are in dispute with one another over matters such as national boundaries, trade agreements, fishing rights and immigration cases, ASEAN provide opportunities for these members to meet, discuss and resolve the disputes peacefully.
One example is the dispute over the Spratly Islands which are claimed by Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Vietnam.
All in all, we can see that its emphasis on the non-use of force has led to the success of ASEAN. In preventing the civil war in Cambodia to worsen which will involve countries outside of ASEAN, it has successfully maintained peace and stability in the region and prevented outsiders from interfering in the region.
The peaceful discussion and resolution of disputes among member countries also contributed to the peace and stability in the region.
Ultimately, this led to growing confidence among members and also growing respect among other international and regional groups in the world on ASEAN’s capability to maintain peace and stability in the ASEAN region.
OR
Award 4m for an explanation of an alternative reason for merger, and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 6m.
E.g. Apart from its emphasis on the non-use of force, there are other factors that contributed to the success of ASEAN.
Firstly is the desire among its members to promote economic, social and cultural
development of the region. ASEAN members have co-operated to improve their economies and also established ties with other countries and associations to promote trade in the region.
One example is ASEAN link with Japan which has invested heavily in ASEAN countries. This economic cooperation among members and with major investing countries such as Japan and USA led to economic prosperity in the ASEAN region and the transfer of technology from Japan to ASEAN members.
Secondly, ASEAN actively promotes the culture and heritage of its member countries. For example, in 1978, ASEAN established the ASEAN COCI (Committee on Culture and Information) to promote co-operation in culture and information among its members. Cultural exchanges such as film festivals, music and drama workshops and art exhibitions have been organised. This has led to a strengthening of mutual understanding and a feeling of unity among the people of ASEAN which will reduce suspicion and ill-feeling among members.
L4 Both elements of L3.
Award 7m to answer that give explanation of the success of Asian & identify/describe other factor(s).
Award 8-10m for explanation of a given factor, 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
===================================================================================
(d) “Singapore’s defence efforts are more effective than its diplomatic efforts to ensure its independence.’ How far do you agree with
this statement? Explain your answer. [13]
L1 Writes about Singapore’s defence 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. Singapore’s defence efforts are more effective than its diplomatic efforts to ensure its independence from any foreign invasion or rule. Since leaving Malaysia in 1965, Singapore has built its defence capabilities from scratch until the present-day when it is acknowledged that Singapore’s defence is one of the best in Asia. This effective defence system has deterred other countries from ‘bullying’ or threatening Singapore’s independence.
Some examples are the tension between Singapore and Malaysia and Indonesia when Singapore managed to maintain its pride and independence despite being pressured by its larger neighbours.
L3 Agrees AND Disagrees, + identifies reasons.
E.g. No. Bilateral, regional and international diplomacy has allowed Singapore to be linked with its immediate neighbours, regional countries and international community through trade agreements, defence pacts and cultural and social exchanges. This has been effective in maintaining Singapore’s independence as any dispute or disagreement with its neighbours or other countries can be resolved through diplomatic discussions and negotiations.
L4 Explains reasons for Agreement OR Disagreement.
Award 6m for an explanation of why the defence efforts are more effective in maintaining Singapore’s independence, and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 8m.
E.g Since leaving Malaysia in 1965, Singapore has built its defence capabilities from scratch until the present-day when it is acknowledged that Singapore’s defence system is one of the best in Asia. This effective defence system has deterred other countries from ‘bullying’ or threatening Singapore’s independence.
Some examples are the tension between Singapore and Malaysia and Indonesia when Singapore managed to maintain its pride and independence despite being pressured by its larger neighbours.
Singapore’s diplomatic effort would be ineffective if it is not backed up by its defence or military capability. Any potential aggressor would think twice before attacking Singapore as it is well-known that Singapore’s military strength is capable of causing great losses and damage to any aggressor. Its defence efforts has also created a sense of unity and loyalty among its citizens, especially through NS and Total Defence. Instilled with this sense of loyalty and belonging to the country, Singaporeans would work together and be committed to maintain the independence of Singapore.
OR
Award 6m for an explanation of why diplomatic efforts are more effective in maintaining Singapore’s independence, and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 8m.
E.g. Bilateral, regional and international diplomacy has allowed Singapore to be linked with its immediate neighbours, regional countries and international community through trade agreements, defence pacts and cultural and social exchanges.
This has been effective in maintaining Singapore’s independence as any dispute or disagreement with its neighbours or other countries can be resolved through diplomatic discussions and negotiations.
One example is the dispute over Pedra Branca with Malaysia and the sand and granite disagreement with Indonesia. Through diplomatic negotiations, Singapore and Malaysia decided to refer their dispute over Pedra Branca to the International Court of Justice. Instead of raising tensions and escalating the problems further which could possibly lead to armed conflict, Singapore relies on diplomatic efforts to resolve these problems which ultimately would maintain her independence. Through diplomacy, Singapore hopes to make as many friends and as few enemies as possible..
L5 Both aspects of L4
Award 9m for an explanation of why defence OR diplomatic efforts are more effective in maintaining Singapore’s independence and identify alternative reason(s).
Award 10m for an explanation of why defence AND diplomatic efforts are more effective in maintaining Singapore’s independence.
9-11
L6 Reaches a balanced conclusion based on explanation of factors in L5.
12-13
OSA: Growth of nation, Industralisation, Population and Housing
To what extent did provision of incentives to foreign investors help Singapore to industrialise in the 1960s? Explain your answer. [12]
Level 1
Writes about the factor but without focus on the question
1m for each detail, to a maximum of 2m
Level 2
Describes the given factor OR/AND Disagrees and identifies other factors
E.g.
Agrees, identifies and describes the given factor
OR
Disagrees, identifies & describes other factors
Level 3
Explains the given factor OR other factors.
Award 4m for an explanation of how the given factor was important and an additional mark for each supporting detail, to a maximum of 6m.
E.g.
Yes, incentives such as Pioneer Certificates encouraged foreign investors from Japan, W Europe & America to set up factories in Singapore. Pioneer industries were exempted form the standard 40% tax.
Others: training subsidies & duty-free imports of equipment & raw materials needed for manufacturing
OR
No, there were other reasons.
E.g. Industrial Peace
Many factories and shops could not operate because the workers went on strike. As a result, the production of goods and services was disrupted. An end to work stoppages would encourage new companies to set up factories in Singapore and help Singapore to industrialise quickly.
E.g. Technical Education & Skills training
To ensure an adequate supply of trained workers to meet the needs of rapid industrialization, technical education was introduced to meet the needs of rapid industrialization in 1969. Boys and girls took up subjects related to technical studies.
Award 4m for an explanation of an alternative reason and additional mark for each supporting detail to a max of 6m.
(Do not award 6m unless more than 1 reason is dealt with.)
Level 4
Both elements of L3
Level 5
L4 + discusses the relative importance of the different factors.
Incentives to foreign investors are more important than industrial peace and skills
training because they ensure that it is profitable to set up businesses here. Industrial peace and skills are less important as they are only relevant when the foreign companies are already set up here.
==============================================================================
“Research and Development (R&D) is best for Industrial Restructuring in the 1970s.” How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer. [13]
Level 1
Writes about the topic but without focus on the question.
Level 2
Agrees or Disagree + Identifies reasons.
Award 3m for describing 1 given factor.
Award 4m for describing both given factors, and an additional mark for further details on either factor, to a maximum of 5m.
E.g.
Yes or No, about R & D.
Level 3
Agrees or Disagrees + Identifies reasons.
R & D is best as it helps Singapore to remain competitive.
OR
No, New & better support facilities helped Singapore remain competitive.
Level 4
Explains reason for Agreement OR Disagreement.
Award 6m for an explanation of the given factor and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 8m.
E.g.
Yes
R & D is best as it helps Singapore to remain competitive in the 1970s. Its manufacturing industry must be capable of improving existing products & developing new ones. This is achieved through R & D in some areas like electronics, computer hardware & software and chemicals.
OR
No
New & better support facilities help Singapore remain competitive. The Loyang Industrial Park, situated near the Changi Airport is Singapore first aviation centre. It also an engineering & manufacturing base to support offshore oil & mineral exploration. JTC upgrades the building & infrastructure in older industrial estates to create a more pleasant environment. Different types of high-technology industrial parks consisting of industrial, commercial & office facilities are built. Firms will be able to carry out R & D, manufacturing, selling & distribution of manufactured goods.
Others:
Higher wages
Productivity campaigns
Better support facilities
Level 5
Both aspects of L4
Award 9m for an explanation of given factor AND other factors and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 11m.
Level 5
Reaches a balanced conclusion based on explanation of factors in L4.
E.g.
Weigh the factors by explaining which factor is stronger than the other based on impact.
In conclusion, R & D is more important than New & Better Industrial Facilities as more new products and improvements can come about can bring better benefits and profits for Singapore to stay competitive. Industrial facilities will come in handy only when there is R & D to ensure they stay competitive here.
Level 1
Writes about the factor but without focus on the question
1m for each detail, to a maximum of 2m
Level 2
Describes the given factor OR/AND Disagrees and identifies other factors
E.g.
Agrees, identifies and describes the given factor
OR
Disagrees, identifies & describes other factors
Level 3
Explains the given factor OR other factors.
Award 4m for an explanation of how the given factor was important and an additional mark for each supporting detail, to a maximum of 6m.
E.g.
Yes, incentives such as Pioneer Certificates encouraged foreign investors from Japan, W Europe & America to set up factories in Singapore. Pioneer industries were exempted form the standard 40% tax.
Others: training subsidies & duty-free imports of equipment & raw materials needed for manufacturing
OR
No, there were other reasons.
E.g. Industrial Peace
Many factories and shops could not operate because the workers went on strike. As a result, the production of goods and services was disrupted. An end to work stoppages would encourage new companies to set up factories in Singapore and help Singapore to industrialise quickly.
E.g. Technical Education & Skills training
To ensure an adequate supply of trained workers to meet the needs of rapid industrialization, technical education was introduced to meet the needs of rapid industrialization in 1969. Boys and girls took up subjects related to technical studies.
Award 4m for an explanation of an alternative reason and additional mark for each supporting detail to a max of 6m.
(Do not award 6m unless more than 1 reason is dealt with.)
Level 4
Both elements of L3
Level 5
L4 + discusses the relative importance of the different factors.
Incentives to foreign investors are more important than industrial peace and skills
training because they ensure that it is profitable to set up businesses here. Industrial peace and skills are less important as they are only relevant when the foreign companies are already set up here.
==============================================================================
“Research and Development (R&D) is best for Industrial Restructuring in the 1970s.” How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer. [13]
Level 1
Writes about the topic but without focus on the question.
Level 2
Agrees or Disagree + Identifies reasons.
Award 3m for describing 1 given factor.
Award 4m for describing both given factors, and an additional mark for further details on either factor, to a maximum of 5m.
E.g.
Yes or No, about R & D.
Level 3
Agrees or Disagrees + Identifies reasons.
R & D is best as it helps Singapore to remain competitive.
OR
No, New & better support facilities helped Singapore remain competitive.
Level 4
Explains reason for Agreement OR Disagreement.
Award 6m for an explanation of the given factor and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 8m.
E.g.
Yes
R & D is best as it helps Singapore to remain competitive in the 1970s. Its manufacturing industry must be capable of improving existing products & developing new ones. This is achieved through R & D in some areas like electronics, computer hardware & software and chemicals.
OR
No
New & better support facilities help Singapore remain competitive. The Loyang Industrial Park, situated near the Changi Airport is Singapore first aviation centre. It also an engineering & manufacturing base to support offshore oil & mineral exploration. JTC upgrades the building & infrastructure in older industrial estates to create a more pleasant environment. Different types of high-technology industrial parks consisting of industrial, commercial & office facilities are built. Firms will be able to carry out R & D, manufacturing, selling & distribution of manufactured goods.
Others:
Higher wages
Productivity campaigns
Better support facilities
Level 5
Both aspects of L4
Award 9m for an explanation of given factor AND other factors and an additional mark for any supporting detail, to a maximum of 11m.
Level 5
Reaches a balanced conclusion based on explanation of factors in L4.
E.g.
Weigh the factors by explaining which factor is stronger than the other based on impact.
In conclusion, R & D is more important than New & Better Industrial Facilities as more new products and improvements can come about can bring better benefits and profits for Singapore to stay competitive. Industrial facilities will come in handy only when there is R & D to ensure they stay competitive here.
Studies Notes for Singapore Industralization
Once agian with Thanks to Hwa Yi Secondary for the notes
LABOUR-INTENSIVE INDUSTRIES (60s-late 70s)
• S’pore’s solution to unemployment
• Labour-intensive manufacturing industries
• Assembly plants that employed large workforce
• Largest portion of product cost is wages
• Eg Electronics and electrical industry, textile industry
2.1 Door Open to MNCs• MNCs keen to set up factories in developing countries
• Labour was cheap
• S’pore willling to learn from them
MNCs : Very large foreign companies doing business in many different countries
• Other NICs reluctant to do so; developing own industries
• Fear control and over-dependence on MNCs
• Turned MNCs attention to S’pore as a more favourable location
2.2 Incentives to Attract Foreign Investors• EDB set up in 1961 : Successful in attracting foreign investments because
– Savings in labour costs
– Incentives
• Pioneer Certificates
• Exemption from tax for 5 years or more
– Policies were not changed unnecessarily or frequently
2.3 A Peaceful & Skilled Workforce• Industrial Peace
– 1961 : 400,000 mandays lost because of work stoppages
– 1968 : New labour law to maintain industrial peace
• Labour Cost & Working Conditions
– Industrial Arbitration Court (IAC) in 1960
– National Trade Union Congress (NTUC) in 1961
– National Wages Council (NWC) in 1972
• Technical Education & Skills Training
– Technical Education in 1969
– Training Institutes
– Industrial Training Schemes
2.4 Location of Industries• Jurong Town Council in 1968
• Reduced time needed to set up factories
• Location shows careful planning by govt
– Light industries
– Heavy industries
2.5 Support Facilities• Transport & Communications
– Port of Singapore Authority (PSA) in 1964
– Paya Lebar Airport expanded
– Major communications centre
• Banking & Financial Services
– Development Bank of Singapore (DBS) in 1964
3.1 Benefits
• Unemployment reduced from 8.7% in 1965 to 4.5% in 1975
• Total income : $3m in 1965 to $13.5m in 1975
• Average income : $1,618 in 1965 to $5,903 in 1975
INDUSTRIAL RESTRUCTURING
(Late 1970s to 1980s)
4.1 Reasons for Industrial Restructuring
• Serious Labour Shortage
• Competition from other countries
4.2 What is Industrial Restructuring?
• Labour-intensive to capital-intensive industries
• Low-tech to high-tech industries
• Low value-added to high value-added industries)
4.3 Strategies of Industrial Restructuring
• Higher wages
• Productivity Campaigns
• New Focus in Education & Training
• Increased Emphasis on Research & Development
• New & Better Industrial Facilities
• Better Support Services
CONCLUSION
Important to be practical, efficient & far-sighted
Economic development has strengthened Singapore’s security
Cherish our achievements & build upon it
============================================================================
To what extent did the incentives offered by the government play in attracting foreign investment to Singapore in the 1960s – 1970s? Explain your answer.
The government set up the Economic Development Board (EDB) in 1961 to promote the industrialisation of Singapore. Its main role was to attract foreign investment into Singapore. EDB encouraged foreign investors from Japan, Western Europe and the US to set up factories in Singapore. One incentive for foreign firms to set up in Singapore was the cheap labour. Besides this, the government also issued Pioneer Certificates to companies that manufactured new products in sufficient quantity. These certificates exempted the company from paying the standard 40% tax on company profits for a maximum of 5 years. Moreover, the government also ensured that they did not change their policies unnecessarily. This showed that the government had clearly thought through their policies before implementing them. This efficiency shown by the government was an added incentive for foreign companies as it raised their confidence level in Singapore. Thus, foreign investors were willing to invest large sums of money / capital in Singapore which was needed to boost Singapore’s economy.
To attract foreign companies to Singapore, the government saw the importance of having a workforce that had relevant work skills and a positive work attitude. To ensure that there was adequate supply of adequately trained workers, technical education was introduced in 1969. Many training schools institutes were jointly set up by the government and foreign companies. Thus, technical education and skills training were important because it meant that the workers had the skills that were needed to meet the demands of the economy. As a result, investors were attracted to Singapore.
Besides this, the government realised that to ensure industrial peace, there needed to be a good working relationship between workers and employees. With industrial peace, production would not be disrupted. In 1960, the Industrial Arbitration Court was set up to settle misunderstandings between employers and workers. The following year, NTUC, a federation of trade unions, was set up to improve the working condition of the workers and promote good working relationship between the employers and employees. As a result of the various government measures, the number of man-hours lost due to strikes was drastically reduced. Therefore a peaceful and skilled workforce was important in attracting investments as it ensured that production would not be disrupted. Thus, this gave companies greater confidence in investing their money in Singapore. Moreover, it ensured that productivity was much higher than the neighbouring countries.
The location of industries also helped in attracting foreign companies. The development of industrial estates greatly reduced the time needed for foreign companies to set up their factories as the infrastructure was already provided for in these estates. Moreover, EDB also ensured that labour-intensive industries were located close to housing estates so that the residents in these estates would be attracted to work in these factories as they could save on time and transport cost. On the other hand, heavy industries were located away from the residential areas. They were located near the sea to facilitate the import of raw materials and the export of manufactured products. Thus all these measures enhanced Singapore’s reputation as an efficient place to do business. Thus, locations of industries greatly appealed to foreign investors as it made it convenient and hassle-free to set up production in Singapore. It also meant that they would be able to receive returns on their investments / profits / generate revenue at a faster rate.
Singapore, situated at the crossroads of international shipping and air routes, is the transport and communications centre of Southeast Asia. PSA, set up in 1964, built new shipyards and expanded its port facilities to cater to large ships. Also to cope with the growth of air traffic, Paya Lebar Airport was expanded. Thus, Singapore became a major telecommunications centre. Besides this, new roads were built and improved. Thus, these support facilities made it convenient for business transactions to take place which greatly appealed to foreign investors. It led to an increase in the volume of trade and cargo.
Singapore further developed its banking and financial services. In 1968, the government set up the Development Bank of Singapore primarily to provide loans for manufacturing and other industries. Our robust infrastructure ensured accessibility and convenience. Singapore geared itself to become a major telecommunication centre. Thus, by offering a range of international banking services, Singapore became a global business hub. In short, these support facilities facilitated trade and industry.
The incentives offered by the government no doubt helped to attract investments to Singapore. However, investors were attracted to Singapore because Singapore had their necessary requirements met - a peaceful and skilled workforce, sound infrastructure and industrial estates. The incentives offered by the government were the icing on the cake. Therefore, had the government not ensured that her labour force was educated and skilled, or had not built a good infrastructure, the incentives offered by the government would have been useless. Thus, incentives did play a part in attracting investments to Singapore but not as much as the other factors.
============================================================================
“Foreign Investment was the most important cause behind the success of Singapore’s industrialization in the late 1960s.” Do you agree? Explain your answer
1. I agree that foreign investment was the most important cause as our government strongly encouraged foreign investors to come to Singapore. But we need to look at the other causes for success to show why it was the most important cause.
2. Foreign investment helped Singapore in a number of ways.
• Large foreign companies set up factories with foreign capital and technology transfer and also provided training for workers.
• Foreign investment also enabled our goods to be sold to a wider market to countries like United States, Japan and Europe. Therefore with foreign investment, new jobs were created and this helped to solved unemployment.
3. Another cause was the financial incentives to attract foreign investors.
• The government issued pioneer certificate to industries that manufactured new products, or not produced in sufficient quantities and they were exempted from paying standard 40% tax for a period of 5 years. Pioneer status was till offered in 1970s and 1980s
• Training of workers received subsidies and there were duty free imports of equipment and raw materials for manufacturing. Foreign companies were also attracted by the cheap labour here. Singapore’s policies were thought through before implementing. As a result, foreign investors confidence was raised and they were more willing to invest large sums of money in Singapore
4. One more cause for success a peaceful and skilled workforce. The government took steps to achieve this.
• In 1961, many factories and shops were unable to operate because the workers went on strikes and there were frequent work stoppages, then the government saw the need to maintain industrial peace.
• In the 1960, the Industrial Arbitration court (IAC) was set up to settle misunderstanding between employers and workers.
• The National Trade Union Congress (NTUC) was formed in 1961 to improve working conditions of workers, promote good relationship between workers and employers and provide training opportunities for workers to upgrade their skills.
• The National Wages Council (NWC) comprises the government, employers and union representatives were formed in 1972 and it makes recommendations on wages increase to meet the economic needs of Singapore.
• New laws were passed to define the rights of unions and management in matters of recruitment, promotion and dismissal of workers. Laws were also passed to cut labour costs. Working hours were increased while public holidays and retirement benefits were reduced. Thus, in looking after the needs of workers, industrial peace became possible
• To ensure an adequate supply of trained workers, technical education was introduced in 1969. By 1975, 12 training institutes offering training in different types of industry. The EDB also started a number of industrial training schemes to upgrade the skills of workers
5. An additional cause was the steps taken by the government to locate its industries and to provide support facilities.
• The light industries such as food and textiles, require little land and are less pollutive and are labour-intensive. They are located in flatted factories or close to housing estates.
• As for heavy industries such as ship building and ship repairing need large area of land, need large quantities of raw materials and often noisy so they are located far away from the housing estates. and are located near the sea to facilitate the import of raw materials and the export of manufactured products.
• In 1964, the government appointed the Port Of Singapore Authority (PSA) to control all port operations such as cargo-handling services.
• To cope with the tremendous growth of air traffic and rapid innovations in the aircraft industry, Paya Lebar international airport was expanded.
• Efficient banking and financial services are necessary for companies to operate. In 1968, the government set up the Development Bank Of Singapore, primarily to provide loans for manufacturing and other industries. At the end of 1973, there are 62 banks and many foreign banks. And these measures made it easy for industries to operate.
6. I think in the 1960s, foreign investment was the most important factor
• With their help that many labour intensive factories were set up and this helped in our economic prosperity. Without their help, less factories would be set up and many people will be jobless and the efforts put into setting up industrial buildings and support facilities would be useless. Thus many incentives were given to attract foreign investors.
• But the other factors were also important as they all served to help foreign investors.
• A peaceful and a skilful workforce, good location of industries and support facilities are further incentives to attract foreign companies. Thus all factors are interlinked as without any of them it would be difficult for industrialization to succeed.
7. I conclude that foreign investment was the most important factor as without foreign companies to take the lead in our industrialization programme, all the other factors would be less useful in ensuring our success.
===============================================================================
1. I agree that a skilled workforce was the most important factor as skilled workers are needed to handle advanced machinery to produce high valued added goods and carry out high technology activities.
• But we need to look at the other factors to show why this was the most important factor.
2. Multinational companies (MNCs) made use of the local skilled workforce. As more MNCs came, more factories were set up but there was a greater demand for skilled workers due to changing conditions.
• In the 1970s, many developing countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia were also setting up factories. With their large populations, these countries had a big supply of labour and their labour cost was lower. We were unable to compete with these countries in labour-intensive industries.
• Also our productivity was lower due to less skilled workers compared to our competitors such as Taiwan which were able to produce better quality goods and services more efficiently.
3. Our government saw the need to upgrade the worker’s skills and knowledge.
• In 1979, NUS increased intake of engineering students. In 1982, Nanyang Technological Institute was set up to train more engineers for industry and Singapore Polytechnic and Ngee Ann Polytechnic also greatly expanded their enrolments.
• New industrial training institutes were set-up because of joint ventures between the government and large foreign companies and funds were set aside to upgrade workers’ skills and retrain those who had lost their jobs. Thus with a skilled workforce, we would be able to manufacture high valued added goods and compete with other countries to sell our goods.
4. Another factor for success was the high wages and productivity campaigns.
The National Wages Council (NWC) recommended higher wages between 1979 and 1981 to encourage employers to substitute machinery for labour, with workers acquiring new skills to handle the machinery. In respond to the increase in wages, employers found it more worthwhile to mechanise, automate and computerise.
The government encouraged workers to take pride in their work and to be productive through newsletters and advertisements.
Therefore, high wages and more productive workers helped in restructuring our economy
5. One more factor was research and development (R&D)
• To encourage research and development, the government established the Singapore Science Park to house R&D firms and various government research institutes.
• It also provided tax incentives and funds to local companies to carry out R&D.. Through R &D existing products are improved and new ones developed in order for our industries to remain competitive.
6. Yet another factor was the setting up of new industrial facilities and better support facilities.
• JTC upgraded older industrial estates such as Jurong and built new industrial buildings and facilities. Loyang Industrial Estate was set up to house Singapore’s first aviation centre manufacturing aircraft parts. Wafer fabrication parks were built in Woodlands, Pasir Ris and Tampines and Jurong Island was developed into a world-class petrochemical hub.
• For better support facilities, the government developed transport, telecommunications and banking services to help manufacturing industries.
• For air services, a big air cargo complex was built at Changi Airport to handle the increased volume of high value-added exports.
• For land transport, the buses, taxis and MRT are continuously being improved to provide support for the growth of business
• Telecommunications is constantly upgraded to link with the rest of the world.
• Other support services such as banking, accounting and advertising also continue to be expanded.
• Such measures taken encourage investments in high-technology industries.
7. I think that in the 1980s, a skilled workforce was the most important factor .
• With skilled workers many companies could produce better quality goods and this would boost our exports and improve our economic growth.
• Without skilled workers, our factories would only be producing low-value goods and our exports would be less competitive and this would slow down our economic growth.
• The other factors would seem to be less important but they all helped companies change from producing labour-intensive to capital-intensive goods.
• Higher wages and better productivity meant that companies had to use more and better machinery.
• Research and Development led to better goods and new goods produced
• and improvement in support facilities was a further incentive to attract foreign companies to set up value-added companies.
• Thus all factors were interlinked as without any of them it would be difficult for restructuring to succeed.
4. I conclude that a skilled workforce was the most important factor as without capable workers to start with , all the other factors would be less useful in ensuring our industrial success.
LABOUR-INTENSIVE INDUSTRIES (60s-late 70s)
• S’pore’s solution to unemployment
• Labour-intensive manufacturing industries
• Assembly plants that employed large workforce
• Largest portion of product cost is wages
• Eg Electronics and electrical industry, textile industry
2.1 Door Open to MNCs• MNCs keen to set up factories in developing countries
• Labour was cheap
• S’pore willling to learn from them
MNCs : Very large foreign companies doing business in many different countries
• Other NICs reluctant to do so; developing own industries
• Fear control and over-dependence on MNCs
• Turned MNCs attention to S’pore as a more favourable location
2.2 Incentives to Attract Foreign Investors• EDB set up in 1961 : Successful in attracting foreign investments because
– Savings in labour costs
– Incentives
• Pioneer Certificates
• Exemption from tax for 5 years or more
– Policies were not changed unnecessarily or frequently
2.3 A Peaceful & Skilled Workforce• Industrial Peace
– 1961 : 400,000 mandays lost because of work stoppages
– 1968 : New labour law to maintain industrial peace
• Labour Cost & Working Conditions
– Industrial Arbitration Court (IAC) in 1960
– National Trade Union Congress (NTUC) in 1961
– National Wages Council (NWC) in 1972
• Technical Education & Skills Training
– Technical Education in 1969
– Training Institutes
– Industrial Training Schemes
2.4 Location of Industries• Jurong Town Council in 1968
• Reduced time needed to set up factories
• Location shows careful planning by govt
– Light industries
– Heavy industries
2.5 Support Facilities• Transport & Communications
– Port of Singapore Authority (PSA) in 1964
– Paya Lebar Airport expanded
– Major communications centre
• Banking & Financial Services
– Development Bank of Singapore (DBS) in 1964
3.1 Benefits
• Unemployment reduced from 8.7% in 1965 to 4.5% in 1975
• Total income : $3m in 1965 to $13.5m in 1975
• Average income : $1,618 in 1965 to $5,903 in 1975
INDUSTRIAL RESTRUCTURING
(Late 1970s to 1980s)
4.1 Reasons for Industrial Restructuring
• Serious Labour Shortage
• Competition from other countries
4.2 What is Industrial Restructuring?
• Labour-intensive to capital-intensive industries
• Low-tech to high-tech industries
• Low value-added to high value-added industries)
4.3 Strategies of Industrial Restructuring
• Higher wages
• Productivity Campaigns
• New Focus in Education & Training
• Increased Emphasis on Research & Development
• New & Better Industrial Facilities
• Better Support Services
CONCLUSION
Important to be practical, efficient & far-sighted
Economic development has strengthened Singapore’s security
Cherish our achievements & build upon it
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To what extent did the incentives offered by the government play in attracting foreign investment to Singapore in the 1960s – 1970s? Explain your answer.
The government set up the Economic Development Board (EDB) in 1961 to promote the industrialisation of Singapore. Its main role was to attract foreign investment into Singapore. EDB encouraged foreign investors from Japan, Western Europe and the US to set up factories in Singapore. One incentive for foreign firms to set up in Singapore was the cheap labour. Besides this, the government also issued Pioneer Certificates to companies that manufactured new products in sufficient quantity. These certificates exempted the company from paying the standard 40% tax on company profits for a maximum of 5 years. Moreover, the government also ensured that they did not change their policies unnecessarily. This showed that the government had clearly thought through their policies before implementing them. This efficiency shown by the government was an added incentive for foreign companies as it raised their confidence level in Singapore. Thus, foreign investors were willing to invest large sums of money / capital in Singapore which was needed to boost Singapore’s economy.
To attract foreign companies to Singapore, the government saw the importance of having a workforce that had relevant work skills and a positive work attitude. To ensure that there was adequate supply of adequately trained workers, technical education was introduced in 1969. Many training schools institutes were jointly set up by the government and foreign companies. Thus, technical education and skills training were important because it meant that the workers had the skills that were needed to meet the demands of the economy. As a result, investors were attracted to Singapore.
Besides this, the government realised that to ensure industrial peace, there needed to be a good working relationship between workers and employees. With industrial peace, production would not be disrupted. In 1960, the Industrial Arbitration Court was set up to settle misunderstandings between employers and workers. The following year, NTUC, a federation of trade unions, was set up to improve the working condition of the workers and promote good working relationship between the employers and employees. As a result of the various government measures, the number of man-hours lost due to strikes was drastically reduced. Therefore a peaceful and skilled workforce was important in attracting investments as it ensured that production would not be disrupted. Thus, this gave companies greater confidence in investing their money in Singapore. Moreover, it ensured that productivity was much higher than the neighbouring countries.
The location of industries also helped in attracting foreign companies. The development of industrial estates greatly reduced the time needed for foreign companies to set up their factories as the infrastructure was already provided for in these estates. Moreover, EDB also ensured that labour-intensive industries were located close to housing estates so that the residents in these estates would be attracted to work in these factories as they could save on time and transport cost. On the other hand, heavy industries were located away from the residential areas. They were located near the sea to facilitate the import of raw materials and the export of manufactured products. Thus all these measures enhanced Singapore’s reputation as an efficient place to do business. Thus, locations of industries greatly appealed to foreign investors as it made it convenient and hassle-free to set up production in Singapore. It also meant that they would be able to receive returns on their investments / profits / generate revenue at a faster rate.
Singapore, situated at the crossroads of international shipping and air routes, is the transport and communications centre of Southeast Asia. PSA, set up in 1964, built new shipyards and expanded its port facilities to cater to large ships. Also to cope with the growth of air traffic, Paya Lebar Airport was expanded. Thus, Singapore became a major telecommunications centre. Besides this, new roads were built and improved. Thus, these support facilities made it convenient for business transactions to take place which greatly appealed to foreign investors. It led to an increase in the volume of trade and cargo.
Singapore further developed its banking and financial services. In 1968, the government set up the Development Bank of Singapore primarily to provide loans for manufacturing and other industries. Our robust infrastructure ensured accessibility and convenience. Singapore geared itself to become a major telecommunication centre. Thus, by offering a range of international banking services, Singapore became a global business hub. In short, these support facilities facilitated trade and industry.
The incentives offered by the government no doubt helped to attract investments to Singapore. However, investors were attracted to Singapore because Singapore had their necessary requirements met - a peaceful and skilled workforce, sound infrastructure and industrial estates. The incentives offered by the government were the icing on the cake. Therefore, had the government not ensured that her labour force was educated and skilled, or had not built a good infrastructure, the incentives offered by the government would have been useless. Thus, incentives did play a part in attracting investments to Singapore but not as much as the other factors.
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“Foreign Investment was the most important cause behind the success of Singapore’s industrialization in the late 1960s.” Do you agree? Explain your answer
1. I agree that foreign investment was the most important cause as our government strongly encouraged foreign investors to come to Singapore. But we need to look at the other causes for success to show why it was the most important cause.
2. Foreign investment helped Singapore in a number of ways.
• Large foreign companies set up factories with foreign capital and technology transfer and also provided training for workers.
• Foreign investment also enabled our goods to be sold to a wider market to countries like United States, Japan and Europe. Therefore with foreign investment, new jobs were created and this helped to solved unemployment.
3. Another cause was the financial incentives to attract foreign investors.
• The government issued pioneer certificate to industries that manufactured new products, or not produced in sufficient quantities and they were exempted from paying standard 40% tax for a period of 5 years. Pioneer status was till offered in 1970s and 1980s
• Training of workers received subsidies and there were duty free imports of equipment and raw materials for manufacturing. Foreign companies were also attracted by the cheap labour here. Singapore’s policies were thought through before implementing. As a result, foreign investors confidence was raised and they were more willing to invest large sums of money in Singapore
4. One more cause for success a peaceful and skilled workforce. The government took steps to achieve this.
• In 1961, many factories and shops were unable to operate because the workers went on strikes and there were frequent work stoppages, then the government saw the need to maintain industrial peace.
• In the 1960, the Industrial Arbitration court (IAC) was set up to settle misunderstanding between employers and workers.
• The National Trade Union Congress (NTUC) was formed in 1961 to improve working conditions of workers, promote good relationship between workers and employers and provide training opportunities for workers to upgrade their skills.
• The National Wages Council (NWC) comprises the government, employers and union representatives were formed in 1972 and it makes recommendations on wages increase to meet the economic needs of Singapore.
• New laws were passed to define the rights of unions and management in matters of recruitment, promotion and dismissal of workers. Laws were also passed to cut labour costs. Working hours were increased while public holidays and retirement benefits were reduced. Thus, in looking after the needs of workers, industrial peace became possible
• To ensure an adequate supply of trained workers, technical education was introduced in 1969. By 1975, 12 training institutes offering training in different types of industry. The EDB also started a number of industrial training schemes to upgrade the skills of workers
5. An additional cause was the steps taken by the government to locate its industries and to provide support facilities.
• The light industries such as food and textiles, require little land and are less pollutive and are labour-intensive. They are located in flatted factories or close to housing estates.
• As for heavy industries such as ship building and ship repairing need large area of land, need large quantities of raw materials and often noisy so they are located far away from the housing estates. and are located near the sea to facilitate the import of raw materials and the export of manufactured products.
• In 1964, the government appointed the Port Of Singapore Authority (PSA) to control all port operations such as cargo-handling services.
• To cope with the tremendous growth of air traffic and rapid innovations in the aircraft industry, Paya Lebar international airport was expanded.
• Efficient banking and financial services are necessary for companies to operate. In 1968, the government set up the Development Bank Of Singapore, primarily to provide loans for manufacturing and other industries. At the end of 1973, there are 62 banks and many foreign banks. And these measures made it easy for industries to operate.
6. I think in the 1960s, foreign investment was the most important factor
• With their help that many labour intensive factories were set up and this helped in our economic prosperity. Without their help, less factories would be set up and many people will be jobless and the efforts put into setting up industrial buildings and support facilities would be useless. Thus many incentives were given to attract foreign investors.
• But the other factors were also important as they all served to help foreign investors.
• A peaceful and a skilful workforce, good location of industries and support facilities are further incentives to attract foreign companies. Thus all factors are interlinked as without any of them it would be difficult for industrialization to succeed.
7. I conclude that foreign investment was the most important factor as without foreign companies to take the lead in our industrialization programme, all the other factors would be less useful in ensuring our success.
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1. I agree that a skilled workforce was the most important factor as skilled workers are needed to handle advanced machinery to produce high valued added goods and carry out high technology activities.
• But we need to look at the other factors to show why this was the most important factor.
2. Multinational companies (MNCs) made use of the local skilled workforce. As more MNCs came, more factories were set up but there was a greater demand for skilled workers due to changing conditions.
• In the 1970s, many developing countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia were also setting up factories. With their large populations, these countries had a big supply of labour and their labour cost was lower. We were unable to compete with these countries in labour-intensive industries.
• Also our productivity was lower due to less skilled workers compared to our competitors such as Taiwan which were able to produce better quality goods and services more efficiently.
3. Our government saw the need to upgrade the worker’s skills and knowledge.
• In 1979, NUS increased intake of engineering students. In 1982, Nanyang Technological Institute was set up to train more engineers for industry and Singapore Polytechnic and Ngee Ann Polytechnic also greatly expanded their enrolments.
• New industrial training institutes were set-up because of joint ventures between the government and large foreign companies and funds were set aside to upgrade workers’ skills and retrain those who had lost their jobs. Thus with a skilled workforce, we would be able to manufacture high valued added goods and compete with other countries to sell our goods.
4. Another factor for success was the high wages and productivity campaigns.
The National Wages Council (NWC) recommended higher wages between 1979 and 1981 to encourage employers to substitute machinery for labour, with workers acquiring new skills to handle the machinery. In respond to the increase in wages, employers found it more worthwhile to mechanise, automate and computerise.
The government encouraged workers to take pride in their work and to be productive through newsletters and advertisements.
Therefore, high wages and more productive workers helped in restructuring our economy
5. One more factor was research and development (R&D)
• To encourage research and development, the government established the Singapore Science Park to house R&D firms and various government research institutes.
• It also provided tax incentives and funds to local companies to carry out R&D.. Through R &D existing products are improved and new ones developed in order for our industries to remain competitive.
6. Yet another factor was the setting up of new industrial facilities and better support facilities.
• JTC upgraded older industrial estates such as Jurong and built new industrial buildings and facilities. Loyang Industrial Estate was set up to house Singapore’s first aviation centre manufacturing aircraft parts. Wafer fabrication parks were built in Woodlands, Pasir Ris and Tampines and Jurong Island was developed into a world-class petrochemical hub.
• For better support facilities, the government developed transport, telecommunications and banking services to help manufacturing industries.
• For air services, a big air cargo complex was built at Changi Airport to handle the increased volume of high value-added exports.
• For land transport, the buses, taxis and MRT are continuously being improved to provide support for the growth of business
• Telecommunications is constantly upgraded to link with the rest of the world.
• Other support services such as banking, accounting and advertising also continue to be expanded.
• Such measures taken encourage investments in high-technology industries.
7. I think that in the 1980s, a skilled workforce was the most important factor .
• With skilled workers many companies could produce better quality goods and this would boost our exports and improve our economic growth.
• Without skilled workers, our factories would only be producing low-value goods and our exports would be less competitive and this would slow down our economic growth.
• The other factors would seem to be less important but they all helped companies change from producing labour-intensive to capital-intensive goods.
• Higher wages and better productivity meant that companies had to use more and better machinery.
• Research and Development led to better goods and new goods produced
• and improvement in support facilities was a further incentive to attract foreign companies to set up value-added companies.
• Thus all factors were interlinked as without any of them it would be difficult for restructuring to succeed.
4. I conclude that a skilled workforce was the most important factor as without capable workers to start with , all the other factors would be less useful in ensuring our industrial success.
Study notes on Good Governance
With thanks to Hwa Yi Secondary School
What is Good Governance?
Governance The way the government manages the country
Good Governance The managing of the country in effective ways for the benefit of the people
Principles of Good Governance in Singapore
1. Pragmatism
2. Forward Looking
3. Meritocracy
4. Fairness
5. Transparency
1. Principle of Pragmatism
What is it: \
Making a practical decision about an issue
Adopting a practical solution to a problem
Examples of pragmatism
Multi-national corporations in the 1960s and 1970s
Economic links with communist China from 1950s to 1970s
1985 recession
car ownership since 1980
Example 1: Multi-National Corporations in the 1960s and 1970s
What was the situation
Many countries did not want to invite foreign companies
Fear of losing out to foreign companies
Fear of domination of economy by foreign companies
What Singapore did
Invited foreign companies to set up operations in Singapore
How Singapore benefited
Economic progress in the 1970s
Example 2: Economic links with communist China from 1950s to 1970s
What was the situation
China was a communist country
Communist threats in Singapore and Malaysia
China was providing help to the Communist Party in Malaysia
What Singapore did
Retained economic link with China
Did not close down branch of Bank of China in Singapore
How Singapore benefited
China opened its economy to foreigners in late 1970s
Singapore able to achieve good trade and investment in China
Example 3: 1985 Recession
What was the situation
Serious recession in 1985
High unemployment
What Singapore did
Efforts made to lower cost of doing business in Singapore e.g. reduction in company taxes, wages and employers’ CPF contribution. These were done even though they reduced employee’s income.
How Singapore benefited
Within two years, economy recovered
Example 4: Car Ownership since 1980
What is the situation
Limited land
Many Singaporeans could afford to own cars
Fear of traffic congestion disrupting economic activities
What Singapore has done
Improved public transportation e.g. MRT and LRT
Introduced ERP
Introduced COE – made Road Tax expensive for older cars
This was done even though many were not happy
How Singapore benefits
Less congestion on road
Less disruption to economy
2. Principle of Being Forward-Looking
What is it
Planning ahead to meet future needs of Singapore
Being able to anticipate and act accordingly
Example of being forward-looking:
Water policy
Agricultural Land Use Policy
Example 1: Water Policy
What is the situation
Limited water resources
Heavily dependent on Malaysia for water
What Singapore did
Plans to build water desalination plants
Expensive but necessary
How Singapore could benefit
Be more prepared for possible problems in future
Example 2: Agricultural Land Use Policy
What was the situation
Environmental pollution in 1960s e.g. water pollution from waste of pig and poultry farms
What Singapore did
Removed pig and duck rearing in 1970s
Cleaning of rivers
Hoe Singapore benefited
More water for water-catchment and cleaner rivers e.g. Singapore River and Kallang River
3. Principle of Meritocracy
What is it
Reward for hard work and talent
Encourage individual potential
No bias based on race, religion or socio-economic background
Example of Meritocracy
Education Policies
Example 1: Education Policies
What is the situation
Need to nurture talents to improve self and country
What Singapore has done
Those who do well are rewarded e.g. government scholarships-special programmes to develop skills like music and art
How Singapore benefits
Equality, freedom and opportunity to show capabilities leads to harmonious living
4. Principle of Fairness
What is it
Equal treatment for every community
No community given increased priority
Examples of Fairness
Policy of Multi-Racialism
Policy of Minority Representation
Example 1: Policy of Multi-Racialism
What is the situation
Need for equal status for every race and religion
What Singapore has done
English, Malay, Chinese and Tamil as official languages
Religious freedom
How Singapore benefits
Absence of racial and religious conflict
Co-existence of different races and religions
Example 2: Policy of Minority Representation
What is the situation
Need for sensitivity towards the minority
What Singapore has done
Group Representation Constituency (GRC) system to ensure minority is represented
Presidential Council for Minority Rights to ensure that the minorities not disadvantaged due to the passing of a Bill
How Singapore benefits
Enhances multi-racial understanding
Allow for minority to voice concerns
5. Principle of Transparency
Reading Materials from the Straits Times
These two articles are example of effective leadership in government. The government in Singapore is not afraid to take unpopular decision that will benefit Singapore.
What is it
To be open
Information available to public
Rules, regulations and decisions made clear
Example of Transparency
Policy on Community Self-Help
Example: Policy on Community Self-Help
What was the situation
Lower income groups less educated
Certain races not doing as well as other races in education
What Singapore has done
Encouraged setting up of self-help groups – CDAC, SINDA, MENDAKI and EA
Partial financing by government and partial financing by members of the self-help groups
How Singapore benefits
Academic performance of all the races improved
What Makes an Efficient Civil Service?
Practising Meritocracy
Upholding Honesty
Encouraging Openness
Practising meritocracy -recruitment based on good academic qualifications
- promotion based on ability and potential
- poor performers given time to improve
- repeated poor performers have to leave the service
Upholding Honesty
-anti-corruption stance
- CPIB directly under the Prime Minister’s Office
- release of contracts to the most capable
Encouraging Openness
-public has knowledge of how policies are made and implemented
- reduce possibility of dishonest behaviour
- regular feedback from public on policies
- decision best for the country taken
SUSTAINING GOOD GOVERNANCE
1. GOOD LEADERSHIP
What needs to be done?
- choose honest and capable leaders
How can this be done?
- choose and train leaders
- choose leaders based on character e.g. honesty
- choose leaders who can work well in a team
- choose leaders who can interact well with people
Good leaders
- earn the confidence and respect of the people
- understand the needs and aspirations of the people; and
- interact well with the people to understand their concern and give clear explanations of government policies.
2. ADAPTABLE AND INNOVATIVE
What needs to be done
- able to innovate and think creatively to solve problems
- identify and solve problems as a team
- give suggestions as to how to improve the quality of work.
- Undergo regular training to upgrade their skills and knowledge
How can this be done
- encourage Work Improvement Teams (WIT)
- principles of meritocracy, honesty and transparency will always have to be upheld.
3. STRENGTHENING A SENSE OF BELONGING AND ROOTEDNESS
What needs to be done
- Singaporeans going overseas should not lose sense of
belonging
- younger Singaporeans should not become complacent
- social cohesion needs to be strengthened
A. CONSULTING THE PEOPLE
greater say in government policies
- numerous feedback channels e.g. Feedback Unit
- decisions based on public’s overall best interest
- the government strongly encourages feedback from the public, but is not easily swayed by public opinion. Policies are based on public’s interest though they are unpopular.
.
B. WORKING TOGETHER WITH PEOPLE
- allow for volunteers to contribute to country
- parents, community involvement in schools
e.g. Parent-Teacher Associations, School Advisory or Management Committees
- public involvement in keeping check on crime
e.g. Neighbourhood Watch Zone Scheme
- promotion of social cohesion through Community
Development Councils (CDCs)
C SHARING THE FRUITS OF SUCCESS
- Everyone in Singapore feels that they have a part to play in the country’s economic success.
- Social cohesion can weaken if one racial group is unable to progress economically and socially well with other racial groups.
- The government periodically redistributes the country’s economic gains to the people to strengthen social cohesion.
- Topping up CPF Account in 2001 and 2002.
- 2001, Singapore Shares - $200 to $1800 in their CPF ordinary account.
- 2003- economic restructuring shares
CONCLUSION
Citizens have very important roles to play in providing good governance. Singapore’s success is due to an effective, pragmatic and honest government; and the hard work of the people who supportive of the government’s policies.
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1. To what extent is upholding honesty an important element to ensure an effective civil service in Singapore? Explain your answer
Upholding honesty is important in ensuring an efficient civil service. Dishonest practices have been effectively curbed due to the government’s anti-corruption stance. The government depends on its anti-corruption laws & the CPIB to carry out its anti-corruption stance. The government awards contracts for certain jobs to private contractors through a tender system, whereby the most competitive bidder who can deliver their services is awarded the contract. Hence people are always reminded of the consequences of corruption & the benefits of upholding honesty.
Furthermore, the government must have access to accurate information from the public in order for it to make effective decisions and policies. Government ministries receive regular feedback from the public concerning various policies. Public feedback helps the government understand how the people feel about its policies. These feedbacks from the public will served as valuable information on the effectiveness of government policies and hence, served to improve the efficiency of the civil service.
Enncouraging openness is also important in ensuring an efficient civil service. Open communication between the ministries and the public is encouraged. Full and accurate information is necessary so that the public can understand how the different ministries function, why policies are made, and how policies are to be implemented. In addition, the public will have knowledge about how public services are administered, how much the services cost, and how the services are to be delivered. Since information is readily available, it is difficult for people in authority to act dishonestly. With such a transparent system of open communication and access to public information, an efficient civil service can be ensured.
Besides encouraging openness and transparency in the civil service, practising meritocracy is also important in making the civil service efficient in serving the public. Officers in the civil service are recruited mainly on the basis of good academic qualifications. Promotion depends on one’s ability & potential. Those who perform well are rewarded for their hard work & dedication through promotions & performance bonuses. Poor performance is not tolerated – those who perform poorly will be advised when their work is not up to the standard & will be given a reasonable period of time to improve. This reminds people to improve their performance, work hard & reap the rewards.
This is a goldilock question. (remember goldilock and the three bears)
There are three factors that you have to consider for this question.
What are they?
Use TCNS to choose which one is the most important
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Is social cohesion more important than effective political leadership in ensuring that good governance will continue in Singapore? Explain your answer.
Social cohesion is still a fragile concept in Singapore. Singaporeans are still aware of their immigrant background. There is also an unspoken awareness of differences in race, language & religion among citizens. In fact, memories of the painful race riots that occurred in Singapore in 1964 still remain & can be easily stirred up from outside the country. This may lead to social instability. Thus, the government strives to build strong social & community ties among the people. The settting up of CDCs also encouraged many people to participated 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.
On the other hand, good governance can be maintained through effective political leadership. In order for Singpore to continue with its economic success & social harmony, its leades must be able & honest. 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
This is a see-saw question. Thre are two factors given. What are they?
USE TNCS to choose which one is the most important.
What is Good Governance?
Governance The way the government manages the country
Good Governance The managing of the country in effective ways for the benefit of the people
Principles of Good Governance in Singapore
1. Pragmatism
2. Forward Looking
3. Meritocracy
4. Fairness
5. Transparency
1. Principle of Pragmatism
What is it: \
Making a practical decision about an issue
Adopting a practical solution to a problem
Examples of pragmatism
Multi-national corporations in the 1960s and 1970s
Economic links with communist China from 1950s to 1970s
1985 recession
car ownership since 1980
Example 1: Multi-National Corporations in the 1960s and 1970s
What was the situation
Many countries did not want to invite foreign companies
Fear of losing out to foreign companies
Fear of domination of economy by foreign companies
What Singapore did
Invited foreign companies to set up operations in Singapore
How Singapore benefited
Economic progress in the 1970s
Example 2: Economic links with communist China from 1950s to 1970s
What was the situation
China was a communist country
Communist threats in Singapore and Malaysia
China was providing help to the Communist Party in Malaysia
What Singapore did
Retained economic link with China
Did not close down branch of Bank of China in Singapore
How Singapore benefited
China opened its economy to foreigners in late 1970s
Singapore able to achieve good trade and investment in China
Example 3: 1985 Recession
What was the situation
Serious recession in 1985
High unemployment
What Singapore did
Efforts made to lower cost of doing business in Singapore e.g. reduction in company taxes, wages and employers’ CPF contribution. These were done even though they reduced employee’s income.
How Singapore benefited
Within two years, economy recovered
Example 4: Car Ownership since 1980
What is the situation
Limited land
Many Singaporeans could afford to own cars
Fear of traffic congestion disrupting economic activities
What Singapore has done
Improved public transportation e.g. MRT and LRT
Introduced ERP
Introduced COE – made Road Tax expensive for older cars
This was done even though many were not happy
How Singapore benefits
Less congestion on road
Less disruption to economy
2. Principle of Being Forward-Looking
What is it
Planning ahead to meet future needs of Singapore
Being able to anticipate and act accordingly
Example of being forward-looking:
Water policy
Agricultural Land Use Policy
Example 1: Water Policy
What is the situation
Limited water resources
Heavily dependent on Malaysia for water
What Singapore did
Plans to build water desalination plants
Expensive but necessary
How Singapore could benefit
Be more prepared for possible problems in future
Example 2: Agricultural Land Use Policy
What was the situation
Environmental pollution in 1960s e.g. water pollution from waste of pig and poultry farms
What Singapore did
Removed pig and duck rearing in 1970s
Cleaning of rivers
Hoe Singapore benefited
More water for water-catchment and cleaner rivers e.g. Singapore River and Kallang River
3. Principle of Meritocracy
What is it
Reward for hard work and talent
Encourage individual potential
No bias based on race, religion or socio-economic background
Example of Meritocracy
Education Policies
Example 1: Education Policies
What is the situation
Need to nurture talents to improve self and country
What Singapore has done
Those who do well are rewarded e.g. government scholarships-special programmes to develop skills like music and art
How Singapore benefits
Equality, freedom and opportunity to show capabilities leads to harmonious living
4. Principle of Fairness
What is it
Equal treatment for every community
No community given increased priority
Examples of Fairness
Policy of Multi-Racialism
Policy of Minority Representation
Example 1: Policy of Multi-Racialism
What is the situation
Need for equal status for every race and religion
What Singapore has done
English, Malay, Chinese and Tamil as official languages
Religious freedom
How Singapore benefits
Absence of racial and religious conflict
Co-existence of different races and religions
Example 2: Policy of Minority Representation
What is the situation
Need for sensitivity towards the minority
What Singapore has done
Group Representation Constituency (GRC) system to ensure minority is represented
Presidential Council for Minority Rights to ensure that the minorities not disadvantaged due to the passing of a Bill
How Singapore benefits
Enhances multi-racial understanding
Allow for minority to voice concerns
5. Principle of Transparency
Reading Materials from the Straits Times
These two articles are example of effective leadership in government. The government in Singapore is not afraid to take unpopular decision that will benefit Singapore.
What is it
To be open
Information available to public
Rules, regulations and decisions made clear
Example of Transparency
Policy on Community Self-Help
Example: Policy on Community Self-Help
What was the situation
Lower income groups less educated
Certain races not doing as well as other races in education
What Singapore has done
Encouraged setting up of self-help groups – CDAC, SINDA, MENDAKI and EA
Partial financing by government and partial financing by members of the self-help groups
How Singapore benefits
Academic performance of all the races improved
What Makes an Efficient Civil Service?
Practising Meritocracy
Upholding Honesty
Encouraging Openness
Practising meritocracy -recruitment based on good academic qualifications
- promotion based on ability and potential
- poor performers given time to improve
- repeated poor performers have to leave the service
Upholding Honesty
-anti-corruption stance
- CPIB directly under the Prime Minister’s Office
- release of contracts to the most capable
Encouraging Openness
-public has knowledge of how policies are made and implemented
- reduce possibility of dishonest behaviour
- regular feedback from public on policies
- decision best for the country taken
SUSTAINING GOOD GOVERNANCE
1. GOOD LEADERSHIP
What needs to be done?
- choose honest and capable leaders
How can this be done?
- choose and train leaders
- choose leaders based on character e.g. honesty
- choose leaders who can work well in a team
- choose leaders who can interact well with people
Good leaders
- earn the confidence and respect of the people
- understand the needs and aspirations of the people; and
- interact well with the people to understand their concern and give clear explanations of government policies.
2. ADAPTABLE AND INNOVATIVE
What needs to be done
- able to innovate and think creatively to solve problems
- identify and solve problems as a team
- give suggestions as to how to improve the quality of work.
- Undergo regular training to upgrade their skills and knowledge
How can this be done
- encourage Work Improvement Teams (WIT)
- principles of meritocracy, honesty and transparency will always have to be upheld.
3. STRENGTHENING A SENSE OF BELONGING AND ROOTEDNESS
What needs to be done
- Singaporeans going overseas should not lose sense of
belonging
- younger Singaporeans should not become complacent
- social cohesion needs to be strengthened
A. CONSULTING THE PEOPLE
greater say in government policies
- numerous feedback channels e.g. Feedback Unit
- decisions based on public’s overall best interest
- the government strongly encourages feedback from the public, but is not easily swayed by public opinion. Policies are based on public’s interest though they are unpopular.
.
B. WORKING TOGETHER WITH PEOPLE
- allow for volunteers to contribute to country
- parents, community involvement in schools
e.g. Parent-Teacher Associations, School Advisory or Management Committees
- public involvement in keeping check on crime
e.g. Neighbourhood Watch Zone Scheme
- promotion of social cohesion through Community
Development Councils (CDCs)
C SHARING THE FRUITS OF SUCCESS
- Everyone in Singapore feels that they have a part to play in the country’s economic success.
- Social cohesion can weaken if one racial group is unable to progress economically and socially well with other racial groups.
- The government periodically redistributes the country’s economic gains to the people to strengthen social cohesion.
- Topping up CPF Account in 2001 and 2002.
- 2001, Singapore Shares - $200 to $1800 in their CPF ordinary account.
- 2003- economic restructuring shares
CONCLUSION
Citizens have very important roles to play in providing good governance. Singapore’s success is due to an effective, pragmatic and honest government; and the hard work of the people who supportive of the government’s policies.
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1. To what extent is upholding honesty an important element to ensure an effective civil service in Singapore? Explain your answer
Upholding honesty is important in ensuring an efficient civil service. Dishonest practices have been effectively curbed due to the government’s anti-corruption stance. The government depends on its anti-corruption laws & the CPIB to carry out its anti-corruption stance. The government awards contracts for certain jobs to private contractors through a tender system, whereby the most competitive bidder who can deliver their services is awarded the contract. Hence people are always reminded of the consequences of corruption & the benefits of upholding honesty.
Furthermore, the government must have access to accurate information from the public in order for it to make effective decisions and policies. Government ministries receive regular feedback from the public concerning various policies. Public feedback helps the government understand how the people feel about its policies. These feedbacks from the public will served as valuable information on the effectiveness of government policies and hence, served to improve the efficiency of the civil service.
Enncouraging openness is also important in ensuring an efficient civil service. Open communication between the ministries and the public is encouraged. Full and accurate information is necessary so that the public can understand how the different ministries function, why policies are made, and how policies are to be implemented. In addition, the public will have knowledge about how public services are administered, how much the services cost, and how the services are to be delivered. Since information is readily available, it is difficult for people in authority to act dishonestly. With such a transparent system of open communication and access to public information, an efficient civil service can be ensured.
Besides encouraging openness and transparency in the civil service, practising meritocracy is also important in making the civil service efficient in serving the public. Officers in the civil service are recruited mainly on the basis of good academic qualifications. Promotion depends on one’s ability & potential. Those who perform well are rewarded for their hard work & dedication through promotions & performance bonuses. Poor performance is not tolerated – those who perform poorly will be advised when their work is not up to the standard & will be given a reasonable period of time to improve. This reminds people to improve their performance, work hard & reap the rewards.
This is a goldilock question. (remember goldilock and the three bears)
There are three factors that you have to consider for this question.
What are they?
Use TCNS to choose which one is the most important
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Is social cohesion more important than effective political leadership in ensuring that good governance will continue in Singapore? Explain your answer.
Social cohesion is still a fragile concept in Singapore. Singaporeans are still aware of their immigrant background. There is also an unspoken awareness of differences in race, language & religion among citizens. In fact, memories of the painful race riots that occurred in Singapore in 1964 still remain & can be easily stirred up from outside the country. This may lead to social instability. Thus, the government strives to build strong social & community ties among the people. The settting up of CDCs also encouraged many people to participated 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.
On the other hand, good governance can be maintained through effective political leadership. In order for Singpore to continue with its economic success & social harmony, its leades must be able & honest. 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
This is a see-saw question. Thre are two factors given. What are they?
USE TNCS to choose which one is the most important.
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