Singapore

I

Introduction

Singapore, officially Republic of Singapore, independent city-state in South East Asia, comprising one major island and 59 small adjacent islets, located off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. Singapore Island, the major island, is separated from Malaysia to the north by the narrow Johor Strait. On the south, it is separated from the Riau archipelago of Indonesia by Singapore Strait, an important shipping channel linking the Indian Ocean to the west with the South China Sea on the east. The city of Singapore is at the south-eastern end of the island; it is one of the most important port cities and commercial centres of South East Asia. The total area of the republic is 707 sq km (273 sq mi).

II

Land and Resources

Singapore Island is low-lying with no prominent relief features. A central area of hills rises to a maximum elevation of 165 m (541 ft). Coral reefs are found in certain coastal areas, and numerous short streams drain the island. The longest river, the Seletar, is less than 16 km (10 mi) long; other important rivers, actually tidal inlets, are the Singapore and Rochor, which run through the centre of the city and support considerable waterborne traffic.

A

Climate

The country has a wet tropical climate, with an average annual temperature of 27.2° C (81° F) showing little variation. Average annual precipitation is 2,413 mm (95 in), with high humidity; the wettest months are November to January, but there is no pronounced rainy season.

B

Natural Resources

Most of Singapore’s primary jungle and swamps have been removed for residential, industrial, and, to a lesser extent, agricultural use. Soils are relatively infertile, and clays and sand are the only mineral resources.