Singapore's achievements in economic and industrial progress have been attributed in no small measure to the growth and development of a productive labour workforce, galvanised together through the difficulties of the early years of nation building in the 1950's, by a leadership determined to set the pace and environment for industrial peace.

As a nation moving towards modernisation and high technology, Singapore's early industrial beginnings had its share of industrial disputes. In 1959, Singapore became self-governing, an event which turned out to be a pivoting point in many aspects of her subsequent history.

In 1961, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) was formed, out of a split in the leadership of the previous Singapore Trades Union Congress. From its humble origin, the NTUC grew in strength, winning the support of workers, management and the Singapore Government by demonstrating through concrete action that it is a responsible labour movement dedicated to the enhancement of worker's welfare and national progress.

Industrial development on a big scale was seen as the key to Singapore's economic growth. To achieve this, a more conducive atmosphere had to be created. To their credit, trade union leaders accepted changes in the labour laws even though these meant giving up some traditional powers.

The impact of NTUC's presence through the 25 years was felt through a series of negotiations and consultations which touched on key issues of labour interests. Amongst these were the formation of the tripartite partnership of Government, Management and Labour which participated in national policies relating to long-term industrial development and wage structure. These were based on the cardinal principle that skilled workers with good work ethics, adaptable to the changing demands of the economic environment, will be adequately rewarded as Singapore enters the highly competitive, technologically advanced international markets. The tripartite relationship also contributed to the good rapport between Management and workers.

The total effect of such tripartite participation was the marked decline and, for many years, the complete absence of work stoppages. Today, Singapore ranks 22nd in the community of nations in terms of per capita GNP. The majority of workers are proud home-owners. Average income has risen from $2,800 per annum in 1970 to $14,500 per annum in 1985, a five fold increase in 15 years.

The next major step taken by the NTUC was to widen its social role by going into key areas of the family's needs - transport, dental, supermarket, insurance and so on. More emphasis was also given to social, recreational, mutual-aid and educational programmes.

All in, the NTUC's increasing role in the story of Singapore's economic success could be summed up in its commitment to the future of the young nation, the willingness of union leaders and workers to adapt to changing circumstances, and the collective effort to create a climate of goodwill and understanding.