What Can Bangladesh Learn from Singapore?
We have often heard rhetoric from our leaders about Bangladesh following the Singapore model. But what would that mean in real terms and what are the key things that Singapore did right that Bangladesh can realistically follow?
Recently I visited Singapore, an exciting place, I have had the privilege of visiting many times before. I felt inspired to share my reflections on this remarkable nation, which continues to shine relentlessly in the global marketplace.
Singapore remains one of the most remarkable success stories in modern history, a city-state that continues to surprise both Asia and the wider world with its dynamism, resilience, and vision. From its humble beginnings as a struggling Third World economy, Singapore transformed into a global hub of commerce, finance, and innovation, a transformation that has become a benchmark for other nations.
This extraordinary journey began with the visionary leadership of Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s founding father and first Prime Minister. With unwavering determination, he guided the nation through the difficult decades of independence, transforming a resource-poor island into a thriving, world-class economy. His disciplined governance, emphasis on meritocracy, investment in human capital, and long-term planning turned Singapore from “Third World to First,” a phrase immortalized in his memoirs. The stability and prosperity enjoyed by Singapore today remain rooted in his legacy.
In recent years, Singapore has continued to evolve under a new generation of leadership. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who took office in 2024, pledged that Singaporeans would see “a new Singapore every day.” This vision captures both continuity and renewal, building on the nation’s strong foundations while adapting to new global realities. Wong’s leadership emphasizes inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation, ensuring that Singapore is not only economically competitive but also socially cohesive and environmentally responsible.
The surprise of Singapore lies not only in its past achievements but also in its ability to reinvent itself constantly. Whether by embracing cutting-edge technology, nurturing talent, or maintaining an open yet secure society, Singapore demonstrates that small states can achieve global significance with clarity of vision, collective discipline, and inspired leadership.
For Asia and the world, Singapore stands as both a model and a reminder: that with foresight, commitment, and adaptability, even the smallest of nations can create a future that far surpasses expectations.
Finally, Singapore has demonstrated to the world that with the right education, integrity, technological advancement, and determined leadership, a nation can achieve remarkable progress. Its per capita income, which was around US$500 in 1965, has risen to about US$93,000 in 2025 -- a powerful testament to Singapore’s extraordinary transformation.
My Personal Reflections from Singapore
Returning to Singapore always feels like meeting an old friend who continues to surprise and inspire me. Even after many visits, I find myself marveling at how this small nation has achieved so much through vision, discipline, and innovation.
Walking through its streets, I am struck not just by the beauty of its infrastructure, but by the thoughtfulness behind every detail -- from clean, efficient public spaces to smart transport systems that make life easier for everyone. Singapore feels like a living lesson in how careful planning and integrity-driven governance can transform a nation.
Beyond technology and economy, what moves me most is the harmony among its people. Different cultures, languages, and traditions coexist seamlessly, reminding me that true progress embraces diversity and inclusion. It is a quiet, yet profound, celebration of respect, understanding, and shared values.
For me, Singapore is more than a successful nation; it is an inspiration. It reminds me that with vision, innovation, and a commitment to people’s well-being, even the smallest challenges can be transformed into opportunities. As I reflect on my visit, I carry with me not just admiration, but a renewed determination to apply these lessons of leadership, harmony, and progress in my own journey and community.
A New Bangladesh: A New Dream
The issues of rule of law and governance across all sectors and at every level must be accorded the highest priority. They form the bedrock of a modern, dignified and prosperous nation.
Rule of law and good governance are not merely administrative goals; they are the fundamental expectations of citizens everywhere. Yet too often those in power ignore these principles. This neglect has worsened in recent years amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and the catastrophic conflicts and atrocities in the Middle East. As autocratic tendencies rise in many parts of the world, we must urgently act to reverse this trend and restore institutions that protect ordinary people.
The people of Bangladesh want a democracy in which fascism has no foothold, a democracy in which intolerance and political repression are fully uprooted and where the rights and dignity of every citizen are safeguarded under the law.
Only by restoring and strengthening rule of law and governance can we transform our shared dream of a new Bangladesh into a lasting reality.
A Gafur is a Former Executive Director, The American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh
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