COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN HDB NEW TOWNS IN THE 1980S

Abstract

The problem of community development was not dealt with explicitly until the early sixties when the political, social and economic conditions began to change drastically. Rapid construction of public housing and its related facilities by the HDB allowed the majority of the population to be housed in a new environment for community life. The HDB has provided its residents with not only a roof over one's head but also a way of life; in other words, a stage for the residents to perform their life's drama. The inception of various community organisations was to accelerate the process of community development by creating opportunities for social interactions among the residents. This study examines the ways in which the HDB and various community organisations have contributed to the making of a Singaporean community. The analysis, via a case study, reveals that the success of community development depends largely on the existence of a conducive environment, effective and efficient community organisations, and residents who are responsive to the physical environment and community activities.