Image Courtesy of MICA

Singapore is a young, vibrant and cosmopolitan city-state. Its 4.9 million people trace their roots to diverse regions of the world, yet live together harmoniously on a compact island measuring just 40km east-to-west and 20km north-to-south.

Independent and politically stable since 1965, Singapore has transformed into an important hub for many sectors of the global economy, including education, finance, technology and tourism.

The city-state has an extensive and sophisticated infrastructure. Singaporeans live in a "City in a Garden" and enjoy some of the best educational, healthcare and sport facilities in the world.

Singapore is in the heart of Southeast Asia, a tropical island transformed from a sleepy fishing village to a thriving global city today with its strategic position, and excellent transport and logistics infrastructure.

Singapore is teeming with a vibrant and diverse range of cultures. Apart from the main races of Chinese, Malay and Indians, there are also many other nationalities from around the world that live and work in Singapore.

Though small in size, Singapore offers visitors a host of lifestyle experiences including world-class attractions, and great shopping in a clean and safe environment. Food-lovers can also indulge in Singapore's range of multi-ethnic cuisines and unique dining experiences showcasing a variety of gastronomical delights that will excite their taste buds.

Find out more about Singapore at www.visitsingapore.com

Winning the bid to host the world's first Youth Olympic Games (YOG) is especially significant for Singapore. Not only will it boost Singapore's existing youth development efforts, it will also advance the realisation of its sporting vision.

The YOG is an unrivalled opportunity to share Singapore's story with the world. For the first time, the Olympic flame will come to Southeast Asia. This heralds a new era in sports development for Singapore and the region.

Singapore has a long history with the Olympic Movement; even before achieving independence in 1965, Singapore's athletes competed at the Olympic Games. The philosophy and values of the Olympic Movement have helped to shape the policies and sports programmes of the Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC).

The Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC) is the national non-profit organisation responsible for coordinating the selection of Singaporean athletes for competition at major Games like the Olympic, Asian, Commonwealth and South East Asian Games. Through sports, the SNOC aims to promote peace, friendship and understanding in the world. Sports is also a key vehicle to build a strong and cohesive nation that promotes cultural tolerance and fair play in all aspects of human endeavour.

For more information, visit www.snoc.org.sg