History - Chapter 8

Separation and merger

Give two reasons on why the merger with Malaya could benefit Singapore [4].

Political independence

• British would only grant Singapore independence if they merged with Malaya as they were afraid that Singapore would be swayed by the communist propaganda. Through merger, Singapore would have a greater political stability and could be safeguarded from communist influence.

Economic survival

• Singapore could not survive economically as it lacked natural resources. The tariffs implemented on Singapore’s goods led to a reduction for Singapore good entering Malaya as it was more expensive for Malayan customers. Singapore would gain access to a larger common market and resources from Malaya. This merger would create a bigger market for Singapore’s goods.

• Singapore also had a rapidly growing population. Through the merger, the increased trade with Malaya could benefit Singapore’s industries, creating more jobs for the locals.

Give two reasons on why there was opposition on the proposed merger. (Tunku’s opinion)

Tunku’s opinion

• The merger would make the Chinese the largest ethnic group in Malaysia. The combined Chinese population of 3.6 million would outnumber the 3.4 Malays.

• Worried that Malaysia would be under communist threat. He suspected the Chinese in Singapore had sympathies for the communist and that the influence could spread to Malaya.

• There would be cultural differences. The Chinese population in Singapore might be reluctant to accept a Malay Sultan as their Head of State and use Malay as the national language, or accept Islam as the state religion.

What are two reasons Singapore separated from Malaysia? (Economic)

Economic disagreements

• Delay in common market. Under the common market, tariffs on Singapore-made goods would be removed. This was important for Singapore’s long term economic survival. However, the common market was delayed and tariffs on Singapore-made goods continued.

• There was an increase in revenue contribution. It was agreed that Singapore would contribute 40% of its revenue to the federal government but was later increased to 60% because of higher defence spending due to Konfrontasi. Singapore felt that this was unfair.

What contributed to the rising tensions between Singapore and Malaysia that led to separation?

• Secretary general of UMNO made anti-PAP speech in Singapore. These sentiments spread through Utusan Melayu among the Malay community. Riots broke out.

What made Tunku declare separation between Singapore and Malaysia?

He was convinced that the differences between both federal and state government could not be resolved. The racial clash in 1964 was a sign of instability that could remain in thought the federation if Singapore remained. PAP leaders also saw that separation was the best way to end the problems. After secret negotiations, Singapore officially separated from Malaysia.

What are two reasons Singapore separated with Malaysia? (Political)

Political disagreements

• The PAP was multiracial and wanted to represent the interests of all communities. However, the Alliance party, which formed the federal government consisting of 3 race-based parties. Each party wanted to look after their own community.

• PAP felt that everyone, regardless of race, should be given equal opportunity to succeed. The best ways for helping the Malays gain better job opportunities was to provide them with free education. However, the Alliance party gave special privileges in employment, business and education. Jobs were reserved for the Malays.

Give two reasons on why there was opposition on the proposed merger. (Barisan Sosialis)

Barisan Sosialis

• They did not support merger in its current form. Singapore had an under-representation of the federal parliament and saw it as a sign of Singapore citizens being treated as second-class status.

• Singapore could also only vote in Singapore elections.