Case Studies

Singapore prides itself on its world-renowned hawker culture. Yet, decades of culinary expertise are at risk of fading. 

This paper will first examine the two main problems faced by the hawker industry, namely, the diminishing profit margins and low replacement rates of hawkers in the industry. In doing so, the various factors that contribute to the narrow profit margins and low replacement rates will also be explored. Secondly, the case study will analyse the four main policy approaches that the Singapore government has implemented. The case will situate the policy approaches based on its purpose, stakeholder, and time horizon. Lastly, the case will evaluate and critique the efficacy of the policy in addressing the multifaceted nature of the problem. 

At its core, this paper serves as an example of how even a comprehensive suite of policies will not be able to effectively resolve a problem if the underlying issue of culture and people’s mindset are not changed. Perhaps, there is a limit in terms of public policy and more needs to be done to influence and shift the ingrained mindsets of citizens. Only then will there truly be a sustainable solution to the problem.

Distinguished Prize 2023

Link to PDF: https://scholarbank.nus.edu.sg/handle/10635/247708