From an impoverished nation five decades ago, Singapore has gone on to become one of wealthiest nations in the world.

It has been 50 years since the island city-state was forced to become independent from Malaysia.

Singapore was once a tiny, impoverished nation without resources.

Today, it's a high-tech powerhouse...and the envy of its neighbours.

It was occupied, first by the British, and then the Japanese.

In 1965 it became independent - but not by choice.

It was kicked out of Malaysia in 1965 against a backdrop of racial tension.

Now, 50 years later, Singaporeans are lining the streets to celebrate the anniversary.

With a population of just over five million - Singapore has defied the odds to become one of the wealthiest countries in the world.

And it's a model for other powers who strive for the same success.

So, after starting with so little, how did Singapore become one of the world's leading economies?

And can that model be replicated?

PRESENTER: Sami Zeidan

GUESTS:

Song Seng Wun - Independent Economist

Elliot Brennan - Non-Resident Research Fellow with the Institute for Security and Development Policy

Source: Al Jazeera