Singapore - Country facts
Map
Flag
Capital
Currency
Internet Code
Location
Southeastern Asia, islands between Malaysia and Indonesia
Background
Singapore was founded as a British trading colony in 1819. It joined the Malaysian Federation in 1963 but separated two years later and became independent. It subsequently became one of the world's most prosperous countries with strong international trading links (its port is the world's busiest in terms of tonnage handled) and with per capita GDP equal to that of the leading nations of Western Europe.
Climate
tropical; hot, humid, rainy; two distinct monsoon seasons - Northeastern monsoon from December to March and Southwestern monsoon from June to September; inter-monsoon - frequent afternoon and early evening thunderstorms
Terrain
lowland; gently undulating central plateau contains water catchment area and nature preserve
Population
4,425,720 (July 2005 est.)
Ethnic Groups
Chinese 76.7%, Malay 14%, Indian 7.9%, other 1.4%
Religions
Buddhist (Chinese), Muslim (Malays), Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Taoist, Confucianist
Languages
Chinese (official), Malay (official and national), Tamil (official), English (official)
Map of Singapore
| back | top |