World

Singapore celebrates 50th anniversary

August 9, 2015 6:12 pm

Singapore has held nationwide events to mark 50 years since it became an independent state.

Tens of thousands of people attended an outdoor parade, watching on as fighter jets whizzed through the sky and a huge convoy rumbled past.

The event culminated with spectators reciting the national pledge and singing the national anthem.

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Singapore became independent when it was ejected from the Federation of Malaysia amid social unrest.

In 50 years, the former British colony has transformed itself into one of the world’s wealthiest countries.

But its critics say the rapid development has been accompanied by a strict control on free speech and politics.