This encyclopedia consists of over 2,500 entries written by more than 200 authors on a vast range of topics. It covers Singapore’s history, geography, economy, laws, politics, arts, culture, entertainment, architecture, food and natural history. Also covered are Singapore’s political, legal, education and healthcare systems. Companies, clubs and associations, housing estates, significant historical events, festivals and customs also have their place in the book.

The encyclopedia covers events that have been significant in the development of Singapore’s national identity. These are shared memories or shared stories which have entered the national consciousness. They include politically significant events such as Separation and Confrontation, or emotionally charged disasters such as the Bukit Ho Swee fire, the MI 185 Silk Air crash or the Nicoll Highway collapse.

Individuals profiled in the encyclopedia run the entire gamut. They include artists, musicians, actors, politicians, businessmen, entrepreneurs, soldiers, priests, pastors, ulema, civil servants, entertainers, ambassadors, judges, sportsmen and even murderers.

In such an ambitious undertaking, the first hurdle was getting a comprehensive list of all possible entries. Thanks to the advice of experts, it was possible to compile a list of entries that we felt adequately covered the various topics and categories. Creating the initial list was hard. Later deciding what or who to include and leave out was just as difficult.

We have attempted to use objective criteria to justify the inclusion of individuals. For artists, writers, musicians and theatre practitioners, we have used the Cultural Medallion as the initial criterion for inclusion. However, to ensure that we did not miss out other individuals who might be worthy, we have turned to panels of experts. Being awarded significant National Day honours such as the Meritorious Service Medal or being admitted into the Distinguished Service Order was another criterion for inclusion.

Companies featured in the encyclopedia are here because they are historically significant. Some may not be large, but they are household names in Singapore. To ensure a representative selection, companies listed in the Straits Times Index have been included in the book.

In a work of this nature, subjectivity cannot be eliminated altogether— even the attempt to find objective criteria for inclusion has a subjective element.

Of course, in allocating space, we have attempted to give priority to the more important entries. However, importance is in the eye of the beholder. In fact, a few entries are relatively long by virtue of the fact that they are intrinsically more interesting than others, even though they may not perhaps be the more significant in the larger scheme of things.

No one person can be a specialist in all aspects of Singapore. This book represents the collective wisdom of a large team of experts in various fields, and this is its major strength.

The Editors

While every effort has been made to verify the information in this publication, no book is perfect. As this is the first edition, we welcome your feedback as regards factual errors or omissions. Constructive contributions should be addressed by e-mail to: singapedia@edmbooks.com.sg