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© 1998 Institute of Southeast Asian Studies, Singapore the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies Was Established As an Autonomous Organization in 1968
© 1998 Institute of Southeast Asian Studies, Singapore The Institute of Southeast Asian Studies was established as an autonomous organization in 1968. It is a regional research centre for scholars and other specialists concerned with modern Southeast Asia, particularly the many-faceted problems of stability and security, economic development, and political and social change. The Institute’s research programmes are the Regional Economic Studies (RES, including ASEAN and APEC), Regional Strategic and Political Studies (RSPS), Regional Social and Cultural Studies (RSCS), and the ASEAN Transitional Economies Programme (ATEP). The Institute is governed by a twenty-two-member Board of Trustees comprising nominees from the Singapore Government, the National University of Singapore, the various Chambers of Commerce, and professional and civic organizations. A ten-man Executive Committee oversees day-to-day operations; it is chaired by the Director, the Institute’s chief academic and administrative officer. SOUTHEAST ASIAN AFFAIRS 1998 EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Chairperson Chia Siow Yue Editors Derek da Cunha John Funston Associate Editor Tan Kim Keow © 1998 Institute of Southeast Asian Studies, Singapore INSTITUTE OF SOUTHEAST ASIAN STUDIES © 1998 Institute of Southeast Asian Studies, Singapore Cataloguing in Publication Data Southeast Asian affairs. 1974– Annual 1. Asia, Southeastern. I. Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. DS501 S72A ISSN 0377-5437 ISBN 981-3055-81-2 (softcover) ISBN 981-230-009-0 (hardcover) Published by Institute of Southeast Asian Studies 30 Heng Mui Keng Terrace Pasir Panjang Singapore 119614 Internet e-mail: [email protected] WWW: http://merlion.iseas.edu.sg/pub.html All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior consent of the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. -
Institutionalized Leadership: Resilient Hegemonic Party Autocracy in Singapore
Institutionalized Leadership: Resilient Hegemonic Party Autocracy in Singapore By Netina Tan PhD Candidate Political Science Department University of British Columbia Paper prepared for presentation at CPSA Conference, 28 May 2009 Ottawa, Ontario Work- in-progress, please do not cite without author’s permission. All comments welcomed, please contact author at [email protected] Abstract In the age of democracy, the resilience of Singapore’s hegemonic party autocracy is puzzling. The People’s Action Party (PAP) has defied the “third wave”, withstood economic crises and ruled uninterrupted for more than five decades. Will the PAP remain a deviant case and survive the passing of its founding leader, Lee Kuan Yew? Building on an emerging scholarship on electoral authoritarianism and the concept of institutionalization, this paper argues that the resilience of hegemonic party autocracy depends more on institutions than coercion, charisma or ideological commitment. Institutionalized parties in electoral autocracies have a greater chance of survival, just like those in electoral democracies. With an institutionalized leadership succession system to ensure self-renewal and elite cohesion, this paper contends that PAP will continue to rule Singapore in the post-Lee era. 2 “All parties must institutionalize to a certain extent in order to survive” Angelo Panebianco (1988, 54) Introduction In the age of democracy, the resilience of Singapore’s hegemonic party regime1 is puzzling (Haas 1999). A small island with less than 4.6 million population, Singapore is the wealthiest non-oil producing country in the world that is not a democracy.2 Despite its affluence and ideal socio- economic prerequisites for democracy, the country has been under the rule of one party, the People’s Action Party (PAP) for the last five decades. -
Achieving-Inclusion
Mee ng the needs of voters with disabili es Copyright © 2016 by Disabled People’s Association, Singapore Published by the Disabled People’s Association, Singapore 1 Jurong West Central 2 #04-01 Jurong Point Shopping Centre Singapore 648886 www.dpa.org.sg All rights reserved. No part nor entirety of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of DPA. 2 Contents Introduction ............................................................................ 3 Part I: Electoral System .......................................................... 6 Part II: Barriers to Electoral Participation ............................. 8 Physical barriers ......................................................... 8 Information and communication barriers .................. 9 Systemic barriers ...................................................... 10 Part III: Recommendations .................................................. 11 Physical accessibility ................................................ 11 Information and communication solutions ............. 12 Systemic solutions ................................................... 17 Conclusion ............................................................................ 19 Glossary ................................................................................ 20 References ............................................................................ 24 3 Introduction -
SPAFA Digest 1990, Vol 11, No. 3
39 (Symbolic Communication in Theatre: A Malaysian Chinese Case by Dr. Chua Soo Pong Theatrical event in Asian Examination of the details of the feelings of the Chinese community in societies has never been a purely structural processes in the artistic Malaysia. But they also reflect the artistic event. It usually has several production of the arts could locate awareness of the Chinese artistes in functions simultaneously. Subli in the specific issues in the wider social stating their inspiration to promote Philippines, Wayang Purwa in Java, context. Malay, Indian, and Chinese dance on Chinese opera in Singapore, Mayong This paper is based on personal equal footing. It is clear that the in Kelantan, or Lakorn Chatri in involvement as adjudicator in the Chinese artistes would prefer the art Thailand, all demonstrate the fact four dance festivals (1983, 1984, 1987, forms of the various ethnic groups to that theatrical events in the region 1989) organized by a number of be developed side by side with one serve a variety of political, social or Chinese cultural organizations in another. religious purposes much more expli- Malaysia and in the author's long citly than the art forms in the West. time observations and research on Gathering in Penang Anthropologists of the art and dance in Malaysia. In this article expressive culture have in recent years the author will focus on three areas. The last two days of 1983 have advanced their studies and proposed It provides an overview of the been most exciting for the dance several approaches in the analysis of festivals organized in the last few audience in Penang. -
Nhb13093018.Pdf
Annual Report 2012/2013 CONTENTS 2 Highlights for FY2012 14 Board Members 16 Corporate Information 17 Organisational Structure 18 Corporate Governance 20 Grants & Capability Development 24 Giving 32 Donations & Acquisitions 38 Publications FY2012 was an exciting year of new developments. On 1 November 2012, we came under a new ministry – the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth. Under the new ministry, we aspire 40 Financial Statements to deepen our conversations and engagements with various sectors. We will continue to nurture Statement by Board Members an appreciation for Singapore’s diverse and multicultural heritage and provide platforms for Independent Auditors’ Report community involvement. Financials A new family member, the Language Council joined the NHB family and we warmly welcome Notes to Financial Statements them. Language is closely linked to one’s heritage and the work that the LCS does will allow NHB to be more synergistic in our heritage offerings for Singaporeans. In FY2012, we launched several new initiatives. Of particular significance was the launch of Our Museum @ Taman Jurong – the first community museum in Singapore’s heartlands. The Malay Heritage Centre was re-opened with a renewed focus on Kampong Gelam, and the contributions of the local Malay community. The Asian Civilisations Museum also announced a new extension, which will allow for more of our National Collection to be displayed. Community engagement remained a priority as we stepped up our efforts to engage Singaporeans from all walks of life – heritage enthusiasts, corporations, interest groups, volunteer guides, patrons and many more, joined us in furthering the heritage cause. Their stories and memories were shared and incorporated into a wide range of offerings including community exhibitions and events, heritage trails, merchandise and e-books. -
A Cultural History of the Singapore Arts Festival, 1959 to 2012
Designing Culture, Policies and Festivals: A Cultural History of the Singapore Arts Festival, 1959 to 2012 VENKATESWARA PURUSHOTHAMAN ORCID ID: 0000-0003-0861-3824 Submitted in total fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY July 2017 Screen & Cultural Studies School of Culture and Communication Faculty of Arts The University of Melbourne Abstract This thesis studies the culture and cultural policies of postcolonial Singapore to chart the cultural history of the Singapore Arts Festival from 1959 to 2012. The study undertakes a detailed examination of the production of culture and contextualises the morphing cultural landscape that informs the Singapore Arts Festival. This thesis is in two parts. Part One sets out the historical contexts and conditions that inform the nature and direction of the Singapore Arts Festival. It studies the design of culture built around multiculturalism, Asian Values and Shared Values and shows how dynamic and pragmatic cultural policies weave these ideas into economic and cultural development in Singapore. The thesis sketches the role of arts in nation-building in the late 20th century and how the role metamorphoses to support economic imperatives of the 21st century. This sets the backdrop for the study of the Singapore Arts Festival. Part Two maps the cultural history of the Singapore Arts Festival through the study of all documented arts festivals from 1959 to 2012. The thesis shows how the Singapore Arts Festival harnessed artistic communities, inspired audiences, developed new platforms for the arts and became an artistic creator and arbiter of cutting-edge performances and productions for a global arts market. -
An Analysis of the Underlying Factors That Affected Malaysia-Singapore Relations During the Mahathir Era: Discords and Continuity
An Analysis of the Underlying Factors That Affected Malaysia-Singapore Relations During the Mahathir Era: Discords and Continuity Rusdi Omar Thesis submitted for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the Discipline of Politics and International Studies School of History and Politics Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences The University of Adelaide May 2014 TABLE OF CONTENTS TITLE PAGE TABLE OF CONTENTS i ABSTRACT v DECLARATION vi ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS vii ABBREVIATIONS/ACRONYMS ix GLOSSARY xii 1 INTRODUCTION 1 1.1. Introductory Background 1 1.2. Statement of the Problem 3 1.3. Research Aims and Objectives 5 1.4. Scope and Limitation 6 1.5. Literature Review 7 1.6. Theoretical/ Conceptual Framework 17 1.7. Research Methodology 25 1.8. Significance of Study 26 1.9. Thesis Organization 27 2 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF MALAYSIA-SINGAPORE RELATIONS 30 2.1. Introduction 30 2.2. The Historical Background of Malaysia 32 2.3. The Historical Background of Singapore 34 2.4. The Period of British Colonial Rule 38 i 2.4.1. Malayan Union 40 2.4.2. Federation of Malaya 43 2.4.3. Independence for Malaya 45 2.4.4. Autonomy for Singapore 48 2.5. Singapore’s Inclusion in the Malaysian Federation (1963-1965) 51 2.6. The Period after Singapore’s Separation from Malaysia 60 2.6.1. Tunku Abdul Rahman’s Era 63 2.6.2 Tun Abdul Razak’s Era 68 2.6.3. Tun Hussein Onn’s Era 76 2.7. Conclusion 81 3 CONTENTIOUS ISSUES IN MALAYSIA-SINGAPORE RELATIONS 83 3.1. Introduction to the Issues Affecting Relations Between Malaysia and Singapore 83 3.2. -
Political Detainees in Singapore, 1950-2015
Political Detainees in Singapore, 1950-2015 Compiled by Loh Miao Ping (Loh Miaw Gong ) S/No Names (Eng.) Name (Ch.) Occupation Date of Arrest Date of Release 1 Choo Chi Cho 朱奇卓 Journalist of Nan Chiau Jit Poh 1950.03.10. Banished to China on 1950.12.05. 2 Zheng Bo Hua * 郑伯华 Chinese High School Teacher 1950.05.31. 3 Yang Quee Yee 杨贵谊 Chinese High School Student 1950.05.31. Deported to Johor on 1950.08.10 4 Lee Yew Wing 李耀荣 Chinese High School Student 1950.05.31. Released on 1950.06.14. 5 Liu Yu Hui * 刘玉辉 Chinese High School Student 1950.06.31. 6 Feng Yi Dong * 冯以东 Chinese High School Student 1950.06.31. 7 Luo Qian Yuan * 罗乾元 Chinese High School Student 1950.06.31. 8 Li Hui Rong * 李辉荣 Chinese High School Student 1950.06.31. 9 Li Zhong Lin * 黎忠霖 Chinese High School Student 1950.06.31. 10 Chen De Xian * 陈德贤 Chinese High School Student 1950.06.31. Deported to Palembang 11 Chen De Hong * 陈德鸿 Chinese High School Student 1950.06.31. Deported to Palembang 12 Huang Shi Chuan * 黄世川 Chinese High School Student 1950.06.31. Deported to Padang 13 Yun Da Feng * 云大峰 Chinese High School Student 1950.06.31, Deported to Sarawak 14 Yan Xing Yuan * 颜兴源 Chinese High School Student 1950.06.31. Deported to Muar 15 Zheng Zhen Rong * 郑振荣 Chinese High School Student 1950.06.31 Deported to Padang 16 Chan Sun Wing 陈新嵘 Chinese High School Student 1950.07.19. Released in 1950.10.00. -
The Role of Singlish Humor in the Rise of the Opposition Politician in Singapore
Khoo: The Role of Singlish Humor in the Rise of the Opposition Politician in Singapore “OWNSELF CHECK OWNSELF”: THE ROLE OF SINGLISH HUMOR IN THE RISE OF THE OPPOSITION POLITICIAN IN SINGAPORE VELDA KHOO University of Colorado Boulder The People’s Action Party (PAP) have won every election in Singapore since 1959 when the citystate was first granted self-governance. Over the years, its regime has been described as authoritarian by political observers (Rodan 2004; Tan 2012), the subjugation of the media a commonly brought-up example of the party’s ability to shut down contrasting political views (Seow,1998). With media laws that dictate the freedom of the press and protect the PAP’s interests, opposition parties have found it difficult to break their stronghold on the nation-state, and there has been no real political contestation in the general elections. Since 2011 however, the PAP, amidst social pressure to ‘keep up with the times’, have cautiously lifted the total ban on online campaigning and as a result, Singapore politics have undergone rapid mediatization. This has led to two major changes in the local political arena. Firstly, the shift in symbiotic relationships between the mainstream media, political organizations and the electorate in Singapore, has encouraged the paralleled rise of "newly competitive" opposition parties able to capitalize on newer, non-traditional spaces of communication to question the ruling legitimacy of the PAP (Ortmann, 2010). In order to brand themselves as alternative voices to an elite PAP, their public performances have appealed to growing populism, and tap on Singlish, an ideologically valuable linguistic resource, to do so. -
Engagement Beyond Elections: Singapore
ENGAGEMENTS BEYOND ELECTIONS IN SINGAPORE, HONG KONG, TAIWAN, AND SOUTH KOREA Lynn T. White III “Public” participation in “the state” is an old topic of political study, and new forms of state-society engagement beyond elections call for novel thinking about it. Small rich Asian countries on China’s periphery provide empirical information that can enrich theory about modern political participation. This essay explores developments in Asia’s “little dragons,” comparing cases when governments and publics have engaged each other or have avoided doing so. Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea – despite their differences – are all economically wealthy and socially diversified. Each has both an official polity (government) and a civil polity (often vaguely dubbed ‘civil society,’ although in such discourse the meaning of ‘civil society’ is wholly political, not vaguely social). The official and civic sectors in each of the dragons sometimes conflict and can benefit by bridging “state-society” gaps. The notion that the public can participate in making policy is democratic in origin. It is also naturalistic, because unofficial citizens are so many they may have collective influence. But this notion has not been an eternal norm in any region of the world, nor has it been monotonically supported by everybody anywhere. Modern governments by, of, and for “the people” are nonetheless supposed to pay attention to the values and interests of citizens who are not officials. The topic of civic engagement implies that the state and the public are different from each other but can cooperate for the good of each side. This view arises not only because governments coordinate social benefits, but also because they are scary. -
Alvin Tan Cheong Kheng
POSTMODERN ELEMENTS OF THEORIES AND PRACTICE IN THE COLLABORATIVE WORKS OF THE NECESSARY STAGE, CARYL CHURCHILL AND THE WOOSTER GROUP by ALVIN TAN CHEONG KHENG A thesis submitted to the Faculty of Arts of The University of Birmingham for the degree of Master of Philosophy. (Arts) Department of Drama And Theatre Arts The University of Birmingham Edgbaston Birmingham B15 2TT United Kingdom November 1998 University of Birmingham Research Archive e-theses repository This unpublished thesis/dissertation is copyright of the author and/or third parties. The intellectual property rights of the author or third parties in respect of this work are as defined by The Copyright Designs and Patents Act 1988 or as modified by any successor legislation. Any use made of information contained in this thesis/dissertation must be in accordance with that legislation and must be properly acknowledged. Further distribution or reproduction in any format is prohibited without the permission of the copyright holder. ABSTRACT This thesis investigates collaboration as a creation method that contests the assumptions behind traditional theatre's hierarchical structure. Tradtionally, the playwright occupies the primary creation phase, leaving the director, designers and actors to fulfill an interpretative function. However, works primarily reliant on non-literary signifiers require a methodology that involves artists from varied disciplines earlier in the creation process. Collaborating hierarchically gives way to co-authorship collaboration, revising the natures of artistic roles, relationships and composition. Interdisciplinary practice is adopted by practitioners interested in exploring the interactions between the literary text and the resources of other disciplines, giving rise to hybrid and semiotic-based performance texts. -
Evidence from Singapore
RESEARCH ARTICLE Electoral Rules and Manufacturing Legislative Supermajority: Evidence from Singapore Netina Tan Department of Political Science McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada Email: [email protected] and Bernard Grofman Department of Political Science and Center for the Study of Democracy University of California, Irvine, U.S.A. Email: [email protected] (Received 5 May 2017) Biographies Netina Tan is an Associate Professor of Political Science at McMaster University. Her dissertation from the University of British Columbia, “Hegemonic Party Rule in Singapore and Taiwan” received the 2011 Vincent Lemieux Prize for the best Ph.D. thesis submitted at a Canadian institution. Her work on electoral authoritarianism, gender and governance in East and Southeast Asia has appeared in Electoral Studies, International Political Science Review, Politics and Gender and Pacific Affairs and other university presses. Bernard Grofman is the Jack W. Peltason Endowed Chair of Democracy Studies at the University of California, Irvine, He studies representation and electoral systems design and is a specialist on constituency boundary drawing (redistricting). His research on this paper was supported by the Peltason Chair and by the UCI Center for the Study of Democracy. 2 Abstract Electoral authoritarian regimes usually preserve the dominance of the ruling party through electoral fraud, violence and intimidation. This paper focuses on the subtler forms of manipulation that undermine electoral integrity and democratic outcomes. Specifically, we examine how an unusual electoral rule, involving multimember districts (MMDs) elected through plurality bloc voting for party slates, exaggerate the legislative seat shares of the People’s Action Party (PAP) in Singapore. This rule, used also by other electoral authoritarian regimes, facilitates the manipulation of district magnitude and gerrymandering, especially the “stacking ” form, to produce a large disproportionality which distorts the seats-votes linkage.