they maintained strict control over their countries. Both countries implemented policies that curtailed political dissent and limited freedom of speech. However, there were some differences between the authoritarian governments in Malaysia and Singapore.
In Malaysia, the authoritarian rule was characterized by the dominance of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), which represented the Malay majority. The government adopted a policy of Malay supremacy known as "Ketuanan Melayu," which aimed to promote the socio-economic status of Malays over other ethnic groups. This policy resulted in affirmative action programs that provided privileges and reserved quotas for Malays in various sectors, such as education, employment, and housing. The government also maintained strict control over the media, restricting the freedom of expression and limiting criticism of the ruling party.
On the other hand, Singapore's authoritarian rule was led by the People's Action Party (PAP) and its charismatic leader, Lee Kuan Yew. The Singaporean government focused on economic development and transforming the country into a prosperous global city-state. However, political dissent and opposition were tightly controlled in Singapore. The PAP implemented strict laws regarding public assembly, defamation, and publications, which effectively curtailed political opposition and restricted freedom of speech. Furthermore, the Singaporean government utilized defamation lawsuits against political opponents and critical journalists, further stifling dissent.
Despite these similarities, there were also some differences in the authoritarian rule of Malaysia and Singapore. In Malaysia, ethnic divisions played a significant role in shaping the authoritarian government, with policies favoring the Malay majority over Chinese and Indian minorities. In Singapore, however, the authoritarian rule was more focused on maintaining political control and economic development, regardless of ethnic considerations. Additionally, Singapore's authoritarian rule gradually transformed into a more benevolent and pragmatic form, with the government implementing liberal economic policies and allowing limited political freedoms while maintaining tight control over the political system.
Overall, both Malaysia and Singapore had authoritarian governments after independence, with strict control over political dissent and limited freedom of speech. However, there were some differences in terms of the dominance of Malay supremacy in Malaysia and Singapore's focus on economic development.
After independence, Malaysia and Singapore had authoritarian governments in which
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