SINGAPORE : Law Minister K Shanmugam has said Singapore considered the Rule of Law to be fundamental to the country's progress because of two reasons - the nature of Singapore society at the time of self-government and the country's weak economic conditions at the time.

Speaking at an event attended by the New York State Bar Association, he explained how Singapore started as a disparate, multi-ethnic, multi-religious society.

The challenge was to assure citizens that they would have equal opportunity regardless of race, language or religion. Mr Shanmugam said this could only be achieved through the Rule of Law.

As Singapore needed foreign investment, the country's value proposition, he said, was to offer laws which businesses would trust and ensure that courts were independent.

Mr Shanmugam said the other fundamentals which ensured Singapore's progress was stability in government, a high-quality public service and ensuring external security.

He noted that some quarters may have criticised Singapore for its strict laws. But he said those who criticise may not be able to see the issues in their own systems, assume that the values of Singapore society are exactly the same as theirs or do not understand the need for a different approach in a different society. - CNA/ms