♥ Saturday, September 22, 2007
How far do you agree that the need to set up a Common Market was the most important reason for merger between Singapore and Malaya?
I agree to a large extent. Firstly, the PAP government felt that Singapore's survival as an independent state would be difficult due to the fact that Singapore lacked of natural resources snd s declining entrepot trade was affecting her economic growth. These were some of the any reasons why Singapore wanted a merger with Malaya.
The PAP government hoped that by merging with Malaya, a Common Market would be set up to support Singapore's new industries. If this Common Market is set up, goods could be bought and sold freely within the 2 countries without having to pay taxes and tariffs.
With this Common Market, the trade of Singapore would increase, industries would also be expanded and new jobs can also be created too. The Common Market would be able to help Singapore overcome her economical problems.
Similarly, with the Common Market, Malaya can also reap it's benefits. Malaya also do not have to pay taxes to Singapore when goods from Singapore enter Malaysia.
However, other factors like full independence from the British and the rapid economic growth here in Singapore also resulted in the decision to merge with Malaya. If these 2 states merged together, then the British would have no reasons not to grant Singapore full independence. Also, by merging with Malaya, it would also bring about a rapid economic growth to both of the countries.
To conclude, I therefore agree that the need to set up a Common Market was one of the most important reasons for the merger.
; 10:33 PM
