50 years ago today, Mr. Lee Kuan Yew signed the proclamation of independence and Singapore became a sovereign democratic nation.
The announcement was made on television at 10am.
The news appeared on The Straits Times the next day.
A reprint of the 9 Aug 2015 front cover page of The Straits Times on 9 Aug 2015
There were plenty of doubts, but we pressed on, led by a government and backed by the entire population to forge our future. We went on to become the world’s most successful society (The Huffington Post, 4 Aug 2015).
The credit goes not just to the visionary government. It takes the collective effort of the entire nation to make it happen.
Today, we celebrate the fruits of our forefather’s labour. Tomorrow, it is up to us, no less, to sustain Singapore’s success, to make it a better place for every citizen, every resident, every visitor.
Majulah Singapura. Onwards we go, Singaporeans.