This was the period of the post-war 'baby boom' as there was peace and stability in Singapore. The average family had 6 to 7 children!
A population that is too big or too small can hinder the growth and development of the nation. Let's see how Singapore has tried to strike a balance between its population and developmental goals.
1966 to 1981: Controlling population growth
In 1966, the government set up the Singapore Family Planning and Population Board to plan its population policy. The aim was to control population growth.
Let's have a look at some posters. What can you tell from these posters?
1980s: Declining birth rate
Potential problems of a small population:
1. Unattractive to MNCs
- reduction in competitiveness
2. Ageing population
- strain on working population
- demand for more healthcare and social services
3. Weakened defence
- smaller security forces
Meeting the challenges of an ageing population:
- Senior citizens as assets to society
- 'Many helping hands' approach
- Invidisual responsibility (healthy lifestyle and financial planning)
- Family support
- Community help
- Government support
Conclusion
In this section, you have learnt how Singapore has tried to strike a balance between its population and developmental goals.
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