Singapore is an island nation located on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. It lies south of the state of Johor and north of Indonesia's Riau Islands. It consists of 63 islands, including the mainland Singapore. Approximately 23% of Singapore's land is covered by forests and nature reserves. With no natural freshwater rivers or lakes, rainfall is Singapore's primary domestic source of water supply. Rainfall supplies 50% of Singapore's water, while the remainder is imported from neighboring countries. Singapore has a tropical rainforest climate with no distinct seasons. The climate consists of uniform temperature and pressure, high humidity and abundant rainfall. Due to the country's location near the equator, the length of the day is nearly constant year round and they do not observe daylight saving time or a summer time zone change.
Singapore is a republic with a West-minister system of unicameral parliamentary government. The President of Singapore, elected by popular vote, historically a ceremonial one, has been granted some veto powers. Currently the President makes key decisions regarding the use of national reserves and appointment of judiciary positions. The Prime Minster heads the Cabinet and executive powers rest in this part of government. The legislative branch of government is the Parliament.
The national language of Singapore is Malay, used in the national anthem, however, the official languages are English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil. English is the first language learned by half of the children by the time they reach preschool age. Singapore has a significant degree of cultural diffusion, with its population comprised of a mixture of indigenous Malay population, with a third generation Chinese majority, and Indian and Arab immigrants with some intermarriages. Due to this cultural diffusion, Singaporean cuisine is a significant cultural attraction. Chinese food stalls may introduce indigenous Malay ingredients or cooking techniques, while traditional Malay stalls will serve halal versions of traditionally Tamil food. Singaporeans also enjoy a wide array of seafood including, crab, clam, squid, and oysters.
Quick Facts
Population: 5,353,494
Capital: Singapore
Per-capita GDP: $ 60500
Size: 697 km2
Time Zone: (GMT + 08:00 hours) Hong Kong, Singapore, Taipei, Chongqing, Urumqi
Country information is adapted from public domain resources including the CIA World Fact Book and www.Wikipedia.org.
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