In 1969, Mr Lee Kuan Yew said that “developing the economy, increasing productivity, increasing returns – these make sense only when fair play and fair shares make it worth everyone’s while to put in his share of effort for group survival and group prosperity.” These words remain as true today as they did 42 years ago. [...]

IPS invited a panel of economists to share their views on income inequality and provoke thought among conference speakers and participants. Their paper argues that Singapore’s policy framework needs systemic change in order to respond adequately to rising challenges of income inequality, which has brought on significant ill effects. While work remains as the foundation of a good society, authors outline principles by which policy changes can be approached, and suggest a “rethink of the social compact” between the state and individual citizens. [...]

The discussion of what Singapore pays its political office-holders should be de-linked from the virtue of their public service to improve the lives of fellow citizens and the nation. [...]

The forgotten contribution of Mr Karel Van Kleef, a Dutch benefactor who bequeathed his entire estate to Singapore when he died in 1930, is remembered. [...]

Breakthrough: Roadmap for Singapore’s Political Future examines the political landscape leading to the outcomes of the 2011 general election, and provides an analysis of how political parties might navigate the future. [...]

Proceedings from the Fifteenth Singapore Economic Roundtable are now available. The roundtable convened leading economists, policy makers and business leaders to discuss developments affecting Singapore’s economic outlook, and featured a special session focused on industrial policy. [...]