Singapore is a vibrant city-state blending futuristic architecture, lush gardens, and diverse cultural neighborhoods. From the iconic Marina Bay Sands to historic hawker centres and world-class attractions, this island nation offers an unforgettable travel experience.
Historical timeline
Key moments that shaped Singapore.
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1
Founding of Temasek/Singapura
According to the Malay Annals, Sang Nila Utama founds a settlement he names Singapura (Lion City) after spotting a creature he believed was a lion on the island.
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2
Arrival of Stamford Raffles
Sir Stamford Raffles of the British East India Company lands at the mouth of the Singapore River and signs a treaty with the Johor Sultanate to establish a British trading post.
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3
Singapore ceded to the British
The Anglo-Dutch Treaty and a subsequent treaty formally cede Singapore to the British East India Company in perpetuity.
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4
Straits Settlements crown colony
Singapore, Penang, and Malacca become the Straits Settlements, administered directly by the British Colonial Office in London.
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5
Fall of Singapore
Imperial Japanese forces capture Singapore on 15 February, beginning the Japanese Occupation (renamed Syonan-to) that lasted until 1945.
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6
Japanese surrender
Japan surrenders and British military administration returns to Singapore following the end of World War II.
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7
Self-governance
Singapore achieves self-government within the British Empire; Lee Kuan Yew becomes the first Prime Minister.
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8
Merger with Malaysia
Singapore joins the Federation of Malaysia along with Sabah and Sarawak, ending British colonial rule.
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9
Independence
Singapore separates from Malaysia and becomes a fully independent republic on 9 August, with Yusof Ishak as the first President.
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10
Leadership transition
Lee Kuan Yew steps down as Prime Minister after 31 years, handing over to Goh Chok Tong, marking Singapore's first leadership succession.
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11
Marina Bay Sands opens
The Marina Bay Sands integrated resort and Resorts World Sentosa open, part of a government push to diversify the economy through tourism and gaming.
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12
Bicentennial commemoration
Singapore marks 200 years since Raffles's arrival with the Singapore Bicentennial, reflecting on the island's pre-colonial and colonial history.
Historical sites
Places where Singapore's past comes alive.
Raffles Landing Site
Where: North Boat Quay, Singapore River
Admission: Free
Fort Canning Hill
Where: Fort Canning Park
Admission: Free park; SGD 18 adult / SGD 12 child for the Battle Box (approx. USD 13 / USD 9)
National Museum of Singapore
Where: Bras Basah, Museum Planning Area
Admission: SGD 15 adults; free for children under 6 (approx. USD 11)
Chinatown Heritage Centre
Where: Chinatown
Admission: SGD 18 adults, SGD 12 children (approx. USD 13 / USD 9)
Kranji War Memorial
Where: Kranji
Admission: Free
Empress Place Building (Asian Civilisations Museum)
Where: Civic District
Admission: SGD 20 adults; free for children under 6 (approx. USD 15)
Padang and Civic District
Where: Civic District
Admission: Free