Singapore's rapid ascent from Third World to First since its independence in 1965 has won it acclaim as an 'economic miracle'. Economic success has been accompanied by impressive achievements in social development, as reflected in international rankings of human capital and human development.The city state's achievements are founded on a socio-economic system characterised by low tax rates, flexible labour markets, and individual 'self-reliance', with state support centred on social investment in education and public housing.Entering the 21st century, however, slowing economic growth, an ageing population, global competition, and widening income dispersion have put the Singapore System under strain. This has prompted a significant refresh of social and economic policies over the past 15-20 years.This book aims to bring the reader up to date on Singapore's socio-economic development in the first two decades of the 21st century. It looks back to the shifts in policy thinking that have accompanied structural changes to Singapore's society and economy, taking stock of the policy innovations aimed at sustaining income growth, economic security, and social mobility. It looks around to compare Singapore's approach to those of other countries facing similar challenges, situating Singapore's experience in the wider international discourse on public policy. Finally, it looks ahead to how the Singapore System may evolve in the years to come.

This book is a collection of essays by thought and advocacy leaders, policymakers, and academics in Singapore who have been and are in positions of influence in shaping social policies, and hence the social context, in the country. These essays are meant to initiate discussion, promote debate and broaden understanding of the social issues at play, the challenges faced, and the trade-offs involved in enhancing social policies, strengthening the social compact, and shaping the social context in Singapore.This is done through addressing issues and challenges in (1) Government and Civil Society; (2) Education; (3) Employability and Employment; (4) Social and Family Development; (5) Demographics and Social Spending; (6) Healthcare and Healthcare Financing; (7) Urban Planning and the Environment; (8) Disruptions, New Technologies and Smart Nation.It is hoped this book will be useful for students of sociology, social policy or public policy, as they discuss the dynamics and trade-offs involved in planning, shaping and implementing social and public policies in Singapore. This book also hopes to inform and initiate dialogues among Singaporeans on the social issues and challenges we face in our city-state and which we have to collectively address as a nation.

What is the secret of effective government in today's complex and turbulent world? In this collection of essays written for Singapore's leading news organisations, public policy practitioner turned academic Terence Ho trains his focus on the issues of the day: education, demographics, economic growth, inflation, taxes and social support, among others.In unpacking these issues and what they mean for Singapore, Terence distils policy principles relevant to societies across the world as they grapple with the challenges of rising inequality, political polarisation, technological disruption, climate change and more.The essays in this collection draw insights from the author's nearly two decades of experience in Singapore's Public Service, recognised as one of the world's most innovative. They open a window into the future of governance in Singapore and beyond.

Singapore is recognised to be one of the most successful economies in the world given its rapid economic and social transformation. Its success is the result of a judicious blend of markets and government, high-quality governance, and public policies that are coherent, consistent and coordinated.This book showcases the contribution of Economics to Singapore's public policymaking. To illustrate the diverse areas that economic analysis has contributed to, this book comprises three sections that span the economic and non-economic policy domains in Singapore. Section I covers economic policies relating to economic growth, trade, investments, productivity, innovation, industrial development, the enterprise landscape and manpower. Section II highlights socioeconomic and security policies, and covers themes such as income inequality and mobility, families, healthcare costs and crime. In Section III, the focus is on infrastructural policies relating to the environment, housing and land transport.This book commemorates the 20th anniversary of the Singapore Government's Economist Service. As the premier service for economists in the Singapore public sector, the Economist Service plays an integral role in supporting evidence-based policymaking through rigorous economic research and analysis of public policies.

How can governments prepare for the future as economies and societies transform?In this collection of essays written for Singapore's leading news organisations, policymaker turned academic Terence Ho examines how Singapore is grappling with technological disruption, climate change, social stresses, leadership transition and fiscal sustainability, among other key issues. Tackling these challenges requires nimbleness in policy adaptation and innovation. This entails anticipating change, developing resource buffers and policy options, and taking measured risks. The essays in this collection draw on the Singapore experience to shed light on wider issues of governance and leadership that are critical for the long-term success of any nation.