Channel News Asia is currently airing a series examining the ‘forgotten’ histories of Singapore, Penang and Melaka. The episode on Singapore raises interesting observations on how the EIC settlement tapped into shipping networks and attracted traders. The host, Dr Farish Noor’s description of the East India Company as the equivalent of a ‘modern day drug cartel’ is definitely designed to capture our attention! Indeed the EIC earned the ironic nickname ‘The Honourable Company’ for its heavy involvement in opium production.
In the opening minutes of the documentary Singapore’s modern port is highlighted before we are shown images of Singapore as an early EIC trading outpost. After a few years of uncertainty (the British were concerned they may not hold Singapore against the Dutch) we see Singapore flourishing as a trading centre. The free trade environment also attracted a large migrant workforce and ‘associated evils’ such as opium addiction and prostitution which formed a source of revenue for the early administration.
The historical angle, and introduction of relatively unknown (or under-studied) primary sources and historical figures makes for compelling viewing. This is a fresh addition as a series focusing on the history behind some of the ports of Asia.
Here’s a link to the programme:
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/tv/tvshows/documentaries-specials/vice-virtue-1800s/2477378.html