According to results of the latest census announced on June 16, Singapore’s population saw an annual growth of just 1.1 percent in the last decade, which is the slowest rate since independence in 1965.

Illustrative image (Photo: VNA)

The low rate is attributed to locals having fewer children and tightened immigration policies.

Last year, Singapore saw its population shrunk 0.3 percent to 5.69 million people, the first drop since 2003 due to fewer foreign arrivals after the country imposed travel restriction and job losses brought about by COVID-19.

Like other developed countries, Singapore is facing a low birth rate and ageing population. In 2020, those aged 65 years and above accounted for 15.2 percent of the population, compared to 9 percent in 2010. In 10 years from 2010 to 2020, the number of Singaporean citizens increased to 3.52 million from 3.23 million but more are staying single and more couples decide to have fewer children.

The median age of the resident population, which includes citizens and permanent residents, increased to 41.5 years in 2020 from 37.4 years in 2010, the latest census showed.

Source: VNA