Singapore 'happiest' country in South-east Asia ?

Singapore beat Malaysia again and this time it is in the happiness stakes. Singapore is ranked 33rd out of 156 countries covered by the United Nations World Happiness Report and thus the 'happiest' nation in South-east Asia. Malaysia is ranked 51st and takes second place among the countries in the region. The report found that richer countries tended to be happier, although wealth was not the defining factor for happiness.

"Political freedom, strong social networks and an absence of corruption are together more important than income in explaining well-being differences," the report said.

"At the individual level, good mental and physical health, someone to count on, job security and stable families are crucial."

Don't we have all that and much more than our southern neighbours?

I guess the bottom line is the grass is still greener on their side of the causeway even though our neighbours love to make weekend trips up north. We have the space and trees, but they have the happiness? We take what we have for granted whereas they have struggled, toiled and used their street smarts to outdo others in the race to be a top notch nation.

It cannot be denied that we are envious in a way of their success. We can feel the difference in the air when we cross the causeway and marvel at what can be done with sheer grit and determination. It can be argued whether they really have political freedom but strong social networks and an absence of corruption is definitely a given there. Every challenge that comes their way is resolved as soon as possible since any delay might jeorpardise their projected growth plans.

They might use the hinterland for their weekend escapades but that would be just a short break from the lifestyle they are accustomed to in their country. The better living standards of the majority contributes to the overall happiness of the nation. That is the crux of the equation, the spoils are better distributed down south.

Image from areyouhappyatwork