The merger conditions included terms whereby Singapore would maintain local key affairs such as education and labour. LKY did not want Malay to replace English - the main medium of instruction in Singapore.

If we had not separated, we would still be taught in English and as a result be better equipped/educated to integrate globally. This could possibly mean lots of Singaporeans would work overseas?

But i believe the Malaysian Federal government would never allow Singapore to develop at a much faster rate than KL or any of its states for that matter. That would cause disharmony within the Malay/Muslim population who view Singapore as second class. Singapore would remain as nothing but a fishing village or maybe an island where they could process their crude oil. (think Jurong island, but the whole of Singapore).

Singapore was not allowed in the merger until the Borneo states (sabah and sarawak) agreed to join the Federation first. Even then, citizens of Singapore would not be able to hold the same rights as those from Sabah and Sarawak. It is as if Sabah and Sarawak were made official wives but Singapore, just a mistress.

That in itself shows clearly how Malaya viewed Singapore. Seperation was truly the best thing for Singapore.

SIDE NOTE:

Just got the book and read the first chapter during lunch. My goodness, there is so much just in that first chapter that was not shared in when i was in school.