Housing Board Apartments:
Singapore has the world's most advanced and managed public housing programme. Began in the early 1960s, the last 40 years has seen advancement in the quantity and quality of its apartments built for the masses. More than 75% of the population live in the apartments they own.
There are more than 15 satellite towns spread over the island Republic, the oldest built more than 40 years, and the youngest, just a few years old. There is a programme of constant renewal going on all the time in all the older estates. Older apartment blocks are being renovated, with more lifts added, and stopping at every floor, and additional space for each individual apartment unit as well as at the corridors. More than that, the government is using each upgrading exercise to enhance the living environment.
In many estates, children's playgrounds, gardens, footpaths, vehicle waiting areas, car park facilities are upgraded too. Added to that, the government has not forgotten the cultural side of living. Artwork in the form of sculptures are sprouting up in many estates for the enjoyment of the residents.
Singapore's public housing programme is an unqualified success by any standard. The amenities in each town centre include recreational facilities like bowling alleys, public swimming pools, football stadiums, cinemas, shopping centres, supermarkets, food centres, restaurants and cafes, etc. Most towns are linked by the very efficient mass rapid transit system and bus services.