The 2nd Decade – Nation Building in Progress: 1975-1985


In 1975, Singapore arrived at an enviable position after enjoying peace and rapid economic growth during its first decade of independence. Much had been done to put in place policies, systems and infrastructure to propel this new country from a time of uncertainty to a period of self-assured sovereignty. Yet fresh challenges abound for then PM Lee Kuan Yew and his cabinet, as Singapore braced itself for another decade of nation building. As with its precursor, ‘10 Years That Shaped A Nation’, ‘The Second Decade - Nation Building In Progress: 1975-1985’ is organised into thematic sections (defence/internal security, foreign relations, economy, health & the environment, housing, sports & culture and education) chronicling the challenges and triumphs of the years between 1975 and 1985, which presented both obstacles and opportunities for a young and evolving nation.