Constitution of Singapore (1965) | Section 2

Every Constitution begins with its most important declarations. In Singapore, Section 2 of the Constitution (1965) makes one of the clearest and strongest statements of national identity.

While Section 1 declares Singapore a sovereign republic, Section 2 goes further by naming the country as the Republic of Singapore. This may sound simple, but it is a defining provision.

It sets the country’s official title and confirms Singapore’s independent existence on the world stage. Without Section 2, there would be uncertainty in law and international relations about how the state should be legally recognized.

Constitution of Singapore (1965) | Section 2 – The Text

Section 2 of the Constitution of Singapore (1965) states:

“Singapore shall be known by the name of the Republic of Singapore.”

Breaking it down:

• It gives Singapore its official constitutional name.

• The term “Republic” confirms that the head of state is not hereditary but chosen according to constitutional rules.

• This name is binding in law, in government institutions, and in international relations.

So, every time you see “Republic of Singapore” on official documents, treaties, and court judgments, it comes directly from this section.

Why Constitution of Singapore (1965) | Section 2 Matters

Section 2 may look like a formality, but it has huge legal and symbolic importance:

• Official Identity: It fixes the constitutional name of the nation.

• Legal Clarity: Courts, government agencies, and international treaties must use the name “Republic of Singapore.”

• Political Meaning: By including the word “Republic,” it confirms that power belongs to the people through democratic processes, not monarchy.

Without Section 2, different names could have been used in law or politics, leading to confusion about the state’s identity.

Historical Context of Constitution of Singapore (1965) | Section 2

Section 2 was written during a very important time in Singapore’s history.

• Before 1965: Singapore was a British colony, then briefly part of Malaysia.

• After Separation (9 August 1965): Singapore became an independent state and needed a Constitution.

• Why the Name Matters: Declaring the country the “Republic of Singapore” showed the world it was no longer a colony or a state under Malaysia, but a fully independent nation.

This section was therefore a bold declaration of Singapore’s new beginning.

A Practical Example of Section 2 in Action

The legal name “Republic of Singapore” is used everywhere, thanks to Section 2:

• Passports: Every Singaporean passport carries the title “Republic of Singapore.”

• International Treaties: When Singapore signs agreements with other countries, it does so under this name.

• Court Judgments: Cases are written as “Public Prosecutor v [Name], Republic of Singapore.”

• National Symbols: Even the Singapore Armed Forces officially defend the “Republic of Singapore.”

Without Section 2, such uniformity in law and international recognition would not exist.

Connection Between Section 1 and Section 2

Sections 1 and 2 work together as a foundation:

• Section 1: Declares sovereignty and that Singapore is a republic.

• Section 2: Declares the official name as the Republic of Singapore.

Together, they establish both the nature of the state and its constitutional identity.

Sovereignty and Recognition

In international law, sovereignty is not just about independence—it is also about being recognized by a clear legal name. Section 2 ensures:

• Diplomatic Recognition: Other nations know exactly who they are dealing with.

• Legal Continuity: Domestic laws apply uniformly under the name “Republic of Singapore.”

• National Unity: Citizens identify with one clear, official title for their country.

For example, when Singapore joined the United Nations in 1965, it entered under this name. That recognition came directly from the declaration in Section 2.

Conclusion

Section 2 of the Constitution of Singapore (1965) is short, but it carries the weight of a nation’s identity. By declaring that the country shall be known as the Republic of Singapore, it gives legal certainty, political meaning, and international recognition.

It is not just about a name—it is about sovereignty, unity, and the nation’s permanent place in global affairs. Alongside Section 1, it forms the cornerstone of Singapore’s constitutional foundation.

FAQs

What does Section 2 of the Singapore Constitution say?

Section 2 says: “Singapore shall be known by the name of the Republic of Singapore.” This fixes the country’s official constitutional name.

Why is the name “Republic of Singapore” important?

It is important because it provides legal certainty and international recognition. The name shows that Singapore is independent and republican in its system of government.

When did Singapore adopt the name “Republic of Singapore”?

Singapore adopted the name on 9 August 1965, after separating from Malaysia. Section 2 of the Constitution legally confirmed it.

How is Section 2 used in practice?

The name appears on passports, court judgments, treaties, and official documents. It ensures all legal and international activities are carried out under the same recognized title.

What is the difference between Section 1 and Section 2?

Section 1 declares Singapore as a sovereign republic, while Section 2 declares the country’s official name as the Republic of Singapore. Together, they establish sovereignty and identity.