The earliest mention of Singapore dates back to the 3rd Century and a Chinese account which described Singapore as “Puluo- chung” (“island at the end of a peninsula”), but it was not until the 11th Century that the island gained its now famous moniker. According to legend, a visiting prince spotted an animal he thought was a lion and Singapore’s modern day name   “Singa Pura” (“Lion City”) was born. Before the British arrived in the 18th Century, Singapore had already become a small town, welcoming traders from China, India, Arabia and Europe on their long sea voyages. The British saw the need for a strategic port to repair and maintain their fl eet, during its journeys to the far corners of the then mighty British Empire. So it was that Sir Stamford Raffl es established Singapore as a trading station. The policy of free trade attracted merchants from as far afi eld as the Americas.

By 1824, just five years after the founding of modern Singapore, the population had boomed from 150 to 10,000. The trade between east and West escalated and advancements in technology, such as steamships and the telegraph, and the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869, increased Singapore’s importance as a centre for trade.

 After the Second World War, Singapore became a Crown Colony. The growth of nationalism led to self-government in 1959 and on 9 August 1965, Singapore became an independent republic. In those 43 years, Singapore has not looked back and has grown into one of the world’s great city states. 

Singapore is the busiest port in the world with over 600 shipping lines. One of the world’s major oil refi ning and distribution centres, Singapore is a major supplier of electronic components and a leader in shipbuilding and repairing. It has also become one of the most important fi nancial centres of Asia, with more than 130 banks. Singapore’s strategic location, excellent facilities, fascinating cultural contrasts and tourist attractions contribute to its success as a leading destination for both business and pleasure.