When Singapore joined the Federation of Malaysia in 1963, hopes were high. But a secret file kept by then-Finance Minister Dr Goh Keng Swee, code-named the “Albatross”, reveals a far more fragile union.

CNA producers Peh Yuxin and Clarisse Goh sit down with Janadas Devan, senior adviser at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information to unpack the historical reasons, political tensions, clashing economic visions, and rising racial politics that pulled the merger apart. 

When Singapore joined the Federation of Malaysia in 1963, hopes were high. But a secret file kept by then-Finance Minister Dr Goh Keng Swee, code-named the &ldquo;Albatross&rdquo;, reveals a far more fragile union.
CNA producers Peh Yuxin and Clarisse Goh sit down with Janadas Devan,&nbsp;senior adviser at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information to unpack the historical reasons, political tensions, clashing economic visions, and rising racial politics that pulled the merger apart.&nbsp;

A curated selection of audio stories from across the CNA newsroom.

The views and opinions shared during this podcast series are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Mediacorp Pte. Ltd. or its group of companies.

A curated selection of audio stories from across the CNA newsroom.
The views and opinions shared during this podcast series are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Mediacorp Pte. Ltd. or its group of companies.

CNA Special

A curated selection of audio stories from across the CNA newsroom. 

A curated selection of audio stories from across the CNA newsroom.&nbsp;

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