THE ROLE OF SINGAPORE AS A METROPOLITAN CENTRE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Abstract

Singapore, the smallest nation in Southeast Asia in terms of land area is not small in any other sense. She has always been the talking point when it comes to issues concerning the region's economy. Singapore is not only the trade and financial centre of the Southeast Asia, but also the main entry-exit point for tourists visiting the region. Further, she provides the telecommunications link between the region and the world. This paper first discusses why and how Singapore was founded and look at the role she played in the region prior to 1959. The main focus of the paper will be on what are the services provided by Singapore as a metropolitan centre in this region. Much emphasis will also be placed on the interdependency between Singapore and her regional neighbours especially in terms of economic ties. Last but not least, the prospects of Singapore remaining as the focal city in this region will also be examined.