SINGAPORE

Singapore is south-east Asia's hi-tech city-state which is famed for its obsession with cleanliness and rules against chewing gum.

The country comprises the main island - linked by causeways to the southern tip of Malaysia - and around 50 smaller islands.

Once a colonial outpost, Singapore has developed into one of the world's most prosperous places - with glittering skyscrapers and a thriving port.

• Population: 4.2 million (UN, 2003)
  
• Capital City: Singapore
  
• Major languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, Tam
  
• Major religions: Taoism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity
  
• Life expectancy: 76 years (men), 80 years (women) (UN)
  
• Monetary unit: 1 Singapore dollar = 100 cents
  
• Main exports: Computer equipment, machinery, rubber products, petroleum products
  
• Average annual income: US $21,500 (World Bank, 2001)
  
• Internet domain: .sg
  
• International dialling code: +65

THE MEDIA

The media environment is highly regulated. Censorship is common, internet access is regulated and private ownership of satellite dishes is not allowed. Singapore Press Holdings, which has close links to the ruling party, has a virtual monopoly of the newspaper industry.

• The press
  
  • Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) - publishes 15 newspapers and six periodicals
    
  • The Straits Times - published by SPH
    
  • Business Times - published by SPH
    
    
    
• Television
  
  • MediaCorp - operates entertainment-based Channel 5 and Channel 8, Malay channel Suria and Indian/arts channel Central
    
  • SPH Mediaworks - operates English-language Channel i and Mandarin-language Channel U
    
    
    
• Radio
  
  • MediaCorp - operates 14 radio stations, including news and talk station NewsRadio 93.8, a range of music stations and Chinese, Malay and Indian services
    
  • SPH Mediaworks - operates English-language WKRZ and Mandarin station UFM
    
  • Radio Singapore International - external service run by MediaCorp, broadcasts in four languages including English