Is It Feasible for Singapore to Reach 10 Million People Without Expanding into Johor State?

The question of whether Singapore can accommodate a population of 10 million people without annexing territory from Johor State is complex and involves several factors including land use, infrastructure, and socio-economic considerations.

Current Population and Density

As of 2023, Singapore's population is approximately 5.7 million people, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The population density is around 8,358 people per square kilometer. Doubling the population to 10 million would significantly increase this density.

Land Constraints

Singapore is a small island nation with a total land area of about 728 square kilometers. While the government has pursued land reclamation projects to increase usable land, there are limits to how much more land can be created. Current reclamation efforts focus on specific areas for commercial and residential development, which may not be sufficient for a population increase of that magnitude.

Infrastructure and Resources

Accommodating 10 million people would require substantial upgrades to existing infrastructure, including transportation, housing, healthcare, and utilities. Singapore would need to ensure that its public services could handle the increased load without compromising quality.

Urban Planning and Development

The Singaporean government has been actively managing urban development through efficient land use and high-density housing. However, reaching a population of 10 million could lead to challenges in maintaining livability and quality of life. Urban planning would need to focus on sustainable development, green spaces, and community facilities.

Immigration Policies

Singapore's population growth has historically relied on immigration. If the government were to increase the population to 10 million, it would likely need to adopt more open immigration policies, which could have social implications.

Conclusion

While it is theoretically possible for Singapore to accommodate 10 million people through intensive urban planning, land reclamation, and infrastructure development, it would involve significant challenges and trade-offs. The quality of life, sustainability, and social cohesion would be critical considerations. Therefore, while annexing parts of Johor State is not a requirement, it remains one of the options that could alleviate some of the pressures of such population growth.