SCRUPULOUS, THOROUGH, FEARLESS: THE CPIB STORY

Scrupulous, Thorough, Fearless — The CPIB Story chronicles the journey of the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) from its beginnings to the present. The narrative contained within the pages of this book contextualises the role of the Bureau in Singapore's nation-building journey. The creation of the Bureau and its history and heritage are closely intertwined with the birth and history of Singapore.

It starts by providing an account of how corruption had become so prevalent in pre-war Singapore. The experiences of war, characterised by extreme shortages, hunger and privation, provided further impetus for many to resort to corrupt ways to get what they needed and coveted in the post-war period. This Bureau was established to clean up the corruption of the day, an endeavour which contributed to the birth of a strong nation whose people shared a common ethos of integrity. Singapore's reputation for being corruption-free has since been one of the pillars of the nation's economic success.

Contents:

• Foreword
• Message
• Preface
• Acknowledgements.
• Introduction
• Legacy 1819–1945:
  • Corruption & the Law in the Nineteenth Century
  • Corrupt Practices & Punishment in Early Colonial Singapore
  • From the Early Twentieth Century
  • Syonan Days
• Laborious Birth 1945–1953:
  • Liberation, Rehabilitation & Challenges
  • Corruption & Legislation
  • Anti-Corruption Branch
  • Prelude & Postlude
  • Opium Heist
  • Special Investigation Team
  • Establishment
• Long & Winding Road 1953–1959:
  • On a Proper Footing
  • Constable at the Helm, on the Eve of Change
  • Stormy Seas & Rugged Road
  • PAP's Philosophy & Measures Against Corruption
• Nation-Building Journey 1959–1989:
  • Beginning with the Cleaning Up
  • Tackling the Culture of Corruption
  • Vanguard!
  • Headwinds
  • For Home & Country
• Vigilance & Readiness 1989–2010:
  • Trends & Measures Towards the New Millennium
  • Being Ready
  • Standards, Capabilities & Engagements
  • In Retrospect
• Metamorphosis & Roots 2010–2022:
  • Challenges in a Changing Time & Climate
  • Metamorphosis
  • Planting for the Future
• Afterword: Reflections from Our Youths

Readership: General public interested in the history and workings of the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau.

'I was intrigued by this history of one of our most important agencies. CPIB officers play a significant role in ensuring development of the nation through building confidence in governance. Public policy cannot be successfully implemented without trust that those who represent public institutions are not corrupt. This is true for both Singaporeans and others who bring their talent and investments to live here and remains highly relevant to our future.' - Lee Tzu YangChairman, Public Service Commission

'This publication by CPIB documents the Bureau's history and important work, and recognises the significant efforts of its officers through the years. It also highlights the importance of public trust and confidence in the Singapore Public Service. The Bureau plays a key role in safeguarding the incorruptibility of our public service. Our public officers must continue to live by our values of Integrity, Service and Excellence. Congratulations to CPIB on its 70th anniversary!' - Leo YipHead, Civil Service

'The Attorney-General's Chambers ('AGC') is a close partner of CPIB. CPIB strives to ensure Singapore remains corruption-free and AGC upholds the rule of law. Singapore is recognised globally as one of the least corrupt countries, where people are confident to live, work and invest in. CPIB's outstanding work over the past 70 years is told in this book, and it is my hope that the achievements and professionalism of CPIB and its officers inspire future generations to continue the vital work of eradicating corruption.' - Lucien WongAttorney-General, Attorney-General's Chambers

'This meticulously researched and well-written book offers a thorough and insightful account of the origins and development of a national institution that has played a quiet but critical role in Singapore's progress as a nation. The relentless dedication of the CPIB in combating corruption at all levels and the pervasiveness of its efforts have been distinctive and vital features in Singapore's state and nation building experience.' - Prof Tan Tai Yong Professor of History, Yale-NUS College and NUS President, Yale-NUS College (2017–2022)

'Singapore's success today, the recognition and respect we have on the international stage, CPIB has played a critical role. This book recounts the determination of those who have gone before us while also showing us why we ought to continue on the same path.' - Chua Chim KangHead & Chief Editor, News & Current Affairs Chinese, Mediacorp Pte Ltd

'I am glad that we have laws as well as the CPIB which contribute to the success of Singapore in eradicating corruption. Singapore has always adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards corrupt practices at all levels. And this has become our way of life. We should work hard to preserve this. But more importantly, prevention is always the key, therefore we should continue to create awareness against corrupt practices. This book tells the story about Singapore's efforts on this, including a useful insight into the commendable work of the CPIB.' - Mohamed Sa'atEditor, Berita Harian, SPH Media Trust

'CPIB has been tasked to be the lead agency for the prevention of and enforcement against corruption in Singapore. But it takes a whole-of-Singapore effort to fight the never-ending battle against corruption. This commemorative CPIB History Book will certainly help to galvanise ground support from the community.' - Goh Sin TeckEditor, Lianhe Zaobao, SPH Media Trust