Ever since Singapore became independent in 1965, its leaders have
invested tremendous efforts and resources to develop its economy in
order to create jobs for its people and to support national development.
This book describes the challenging journey of Singapore in developing a
knowledge-based economy driven by research and innovation and the roles
played by research institutes, universities, research manpower and
appropriate collaboration between research institutes and industry.
The book traces the foundations of Singapore's research story from the
time of its independence in 1965 to the present day. Through interviews
with the key players and research into the records, the establishment of
the key institutes and the roles of a global cast of researchers,
scientists and engineers in setting up the R&D infrastructure are
outlined. The impact of the concerted efforts to build up a credible and
world-class research capability in Singapore over the last 25 years is
discussed, as are the tremendous challenges faced by the key players in
the drive to develop a knowledge-based economy and the ultimate goal of
an innovation-driven economy.