Proclamation of Singapore facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Proclamation of Singapore |
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| Created | 7 August 1965 |
| Location | The Secretary-General of the  United Nations acting in his capacity as depositary the following:(English) and (French), Registered Nr. I-8206 |
| Authors | Edmund W. Barker |
| Signers | Lee Kuan Yew and Tunku Abdul Rahman |
The Proclamation of Singapore is a very important document. It officially declared that Singapore was becoming an independent country. This happened on 9 August 1965.
This Proclamation was part of a bigger agreement. It was signed between the governments of Malaysia and Singapore. This agreement was about Singapore leaving Malaysia to become its own country.
On that special day, 9 August 1965, Lee Kuan Yew read the Proclamation. He was Singapore's first prime minister. This event marked Singapore's new beginning as a sovereign nation.
Contents
What the Proclamation Declared
The Proclamation of Singapore was a powerful statement. It announced that Singapore was now a free and independent nation. It also explained why this separation happened.
Singapore's View of Independence
The Proclamation from Singapore's side stated that it is a basic right for people to be free. It reminded everyone that Malaysia was formed in 1963. Singapore was one of the states that joined Malaysia then.
The document also mentioned an agreement. This agreement said that if Singapore separated, Malaysia would give up its control over Singapore. This would make Singapore's government fully in charge.
Finally, Lee Kuan Yew officially declared Singapore to be independent. He said that from 9 August 1965, Singapore would always be a free and democratic country. He promised it would be based on fairness and justice. The goal was to make sure everyone in Singapore was happy and lived in an equal society.
Malaysia's View of the Separation
Malaysia also issued its own proclamation. This one was read by Tunku Abdul Rahman, who was the Prime Minister of Malaysia. It also started by talking about Malaysia's formation in 1963.
Malaysia's proclamation confirmed the agreement made on 7 August 1965. This agreement stated that Singapore would no longer be a state of Malaysia. Instead, it would become a separate and independent nation.
Tunku Abdul Rahman officially declared this separation. He said that from 9 August 1965, Singapore would be an independent country forever. Malaysia also promised to recognize Singapore's government. They would always work together as friends.
Why Singapore Became Independent
Singapore joined Malaysia in 1963. But there were some disagreements between the leaders of Singapore and Malaysia. These disagreements were about politics and the economy.
After some time, it became clear that it was best for Singapore to become independent. This way, Singapore could make its own decisions. It could also build its own future. The Proclamation was the official way to make this happen.
Key People Involved
Two main leaders were central to this historic event:
- Lee Kuan Yew: He was the Prime Minister of Singapore. He signed and read Singapore's Proclamation. He played a huge role in Singapore's journey to independence.
- Tunku Abdul Rahman: He was the Prime Minister of Malaysia. He signed and read Malaysia's Proclamation. He agreed to Singapore's separation.
What Independence Meant for Singapore
Becoming independent was a huge step for Singapore. It meant that Singapore was now in charge of itself. It could create its own laws and policies. It could also build its own economy and defense.
This moment was the start of Singapore's journey as a successful and modern nation. The Proclamation of Singapore is a reminder of this important day in history.
See also
- Proclamation of Malaysia
- Singapore in Malaysia
- Independence of Singapore Agreement 1965
- Succession of states
- Vienna Convention on Succession of States in respect of Treaties
