New data on Singapore's economic performance in the July to September quarter was released on Thursday morning by the Ministry of Trade and Industry. Here's a quick summary of the key points:
1. Stronger growth this year:
The Singapore economy's growth forecast for this year has been upgraded to between 3.5% and 4%, from a previous estimate of between 2.5% and 3.5%, on the back of stronger-than-expected growth in the third quarter. This year's growth will be three times as fast as last year's 1.3% expansion, and is due to a better global economy and continued strength in construction and services.
An F-15SG fighter of 149 Squadron rolling down the runway at Paya Lebar Airbase before take-off on June 24, 2013. A new military airbase and a fourth runway will be built at Changi East, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in his National Day Rally speech on Sunday, Aug18 2013
A new military airbase and a fourth runway will be built at Changi East, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in his National Day Rally speech on Sunday.
Paya Lebar Airbase will be moved there later on. This will free up an area bigger than Bishan and Toa Payoh - around 800 ha - for new homes, offices, and factories.
Yet these depressingly cramped spaces serve as a kitchen, living room, dining room, bedroom, pantry and everything in between for their cooped-up inhabitants.
Those unfortunate enough to live in these urban slums range from the elderly and unemployed to low-income families and singletons.
