A model society?

As noted earlier, Singapore is an extraordinarily diverse city - multi-ethnic, multi-religious, and increasingly home to many ex-pat foreigners as well. This city-state of 4.7 million people itself is ranked among the wealthier countries. Literacy is high, unemployment is low. To be sure, there is socio-economic distinction like everywhere else in the world; but, the government does a commendable job in ensuring the welfare of the population at large.

For example, one of the unique thing about Singapore is that upwards to 90% (?) of the population lives in government sponsored and subsidized housing known colloquially as HDB blocks (Housing Development Board). These are generally huge building complexes, built post-60's, are up to 40 stories high, though, more commonly at 12 or 24 stories. They are by no means what we'd associate with public housing for the pour; in fact, poverty rate is very low in Singapore. These flats are leased out for 99 years maximum and have ethnic quotas to ensure heterogeneity. They function much like self-contained mini cities with residential units above and a market area on the ground level, with services and food court catering to various ethnic cuisines.


Ground level market stall of one of the HDB blocks.