Although the ASEAN countries are geographically close, they have historically been divided in many respects. Elaborate on this statement and highlight the important economic development of member countries within ASEAN

Question

How does Singapore represent a special case within the ASEAN nations?

Answer 1

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was established as an organization for economic, political, social, and cultural cooperation among its member countries. Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand were the original six members. Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar joined later on. Individually and collectively, ASEAN countries are active in regional and global trade. However, all the above-mentioned countries were under different political orders, and the population is very different from the religious and cultural point of view. Some of these countries are advancing rapidly whereas others still have a long way to go. There are different natural resources in each of the member countries. Some have undergone political unrest and wars recently. For example, Singapore transformed itself from a British colony to a vibrant industrial power. One of the reasons for its success is its extremely efficient infrastructure. The Port of Singapore is the world's second-largest container port. It has a high standard of living, second only to Japan. There is 93-percent literacy rate and is very much advanced in business. Many foreign companies are attracted to Singapore. Singapore alone accounts for more than one-third of U.S. trading activities with ASEAN countries.