1. British colonization: Singapore was colonized by the British in the 19th century, and English became the language of administration, education, and trade.
2. Multilingual society: Singapore is a multilingual society with Chinese, Malay, Tamil, and other languages spoken among its citizens. English was chosen as a common language to unite the diverse ethnic communities and facilitate communication.
3. Global connectivity: English is the most widely spoken language in the world, and Singapore is a global hub for trade, finance, and tourism. English proficiency ensures that Singaporeans can interact with people from different countries and cultures.
4. Education system: Singapore has a highly regarded education system, and English is the medium of instruction in schools and universities. This reinforces the importance of English in society and its relevance to success in academic and professional pursuits.
5. Economic growth: English-speaking countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia are major trading partners of Singapore. Proficiency in English enhances business opportunities and promotes economic growth.
