Introduction

Singapore’s transformation from a densely populated city with sprawling slums and rural villages into a country known for its high-quality public housing is a remarkable story of urban planning and social policy. Central to this transformation has been the role of the Housing & Development Board (HDB) and government-led resettlement programmes initiated since the 1960s.

The State of Housing in Early Post-Independence Singapore

After Singapore gained self-governance in 1959 and later independence in 1965, it faced severe housing shortages. Approximately 80% of the population lived in overcrowded slums and kampongs (villages), lacking basic sanitation and adequate infrastructure. These conditions posed both social and public health challenges for the young nation.

Formation and Mandate of the Housing & Development Board (HDB)

To address these pressing issues, the Singapore government established the Housing & Development Board (HDB) in 1960. The HDB was tasked with the planning, development, and construction of affordable and hygienic public housing to replace the existing substandard living conditions.

According to HDB official sources, the initial focus included:

• Rapid construction of flats to accommodate resettled families
• Ensuring access to adequate amenities such as clean water, sanitation, and electricity
• Planning entire townships with schools, markets, and public transport links

Key Features of HDB’s Modern Housing Estates

The HDB housing estates were designed with several core principles:

• Affordability: Providing housing options that were financially accessible to low and middle-income Singaporeans.
• Community and Social Integration: Town planning that encouraged social cohesion through communal spaces and amenities.
• Infrastructure and Services: Integrating essential services like schools, clinics, parks, and transport within estates.
• Improved Sanitation and Hygiene: Eliminating open sewers, providing piped water, and waste collection systems.
• Gradual Expansion: Phased development to meet growing demand without overwhelming resources.

The Resettlement Programmes: Moving from Kampongs to Flats

One of the biggest challenges involved relocating residents from kampongs and squatter settlements to new flats. The government adopted resettlement programmes to facilitate this transition:

Community Engagement and Education

To gain acceptance, the government held extensive dialogues and education campaigns to inform residents about the benefits of modern housing, such as better living conditions and security of tenure.

Phased Resettlement Approach

Resettlements were carried out in phases, minimizing disruptions to residents’ livelihoods. For instance, many people were helped to find jobs near their new homes or were provided transport subsidies.

Financial Assistance and Ownership Schemes

Through the introduction of Central Provident Fund (CPF) schemes, residents could use their savings to purchase HDB flats on long-term leases, encouraging homeownership instead of rental models.

Impact and Legacy of the Transformation

The programme has yielded impressive outcomes:

• By 1980, over 80% of Singapore’s population lived in HDB flats— a significant increase from just 10% in 1960.
• Urban slums and unsafe kampongs largely disappeared, replaced by well-equipped housing estates.
• Enhanced public health and social stability.
• A globally recognized model of public housing and urban renewal.

Current and Future Developments

As of 2024, HDB continues to innovate by upgrading older estates, implementing sustainable building designs, and focusing on community bonding initiatives. Resettlement principles remain important where redevelopment or renewal is necessary, emphasizing transparency and community consultation.

Additional Resources

• Housing & Development Board (HDB)
• Central Provident Fund (CPF) Board
• Energy Market Authority (EMA) – for utilities and infrastructure information relevant to public housing
• Government of Singapore

This site is an informational blog and is not affiliated with the Government of Singapore.