Fifty years ago, on June 3 1959, the state of Singapore was finally granted self-governance and had full control over its domestic policies. This was after the failed attempt by the late David Marshall to gain complete self-rule for the country in 1955.

In these 50 years ever since we achieved self-governance, we have also gone through merger with Malaysia in 1963, and eventually full independence in 1965 – we had to learn how to build a small and often under-estimated nation into one which is developed today.

How much do you remember from these 50 years? To commemorate this milestone in Singapore’s history, the National Heritage Board launches a national blogging contest entitled 50 years of self-governance: My memories, My moments. Held over a month from 1 August 2009 to 1 September 2009, all you need to do is to visit this site and take part in our contest. Share with us in more than 200 words your thoughts on one of the following topics:

• I’m proud to be a Singaporean because…
• To me, the most important moment in Singapore’s history between 1959 and 2009 was…
• Fifty years from now I envision Singapore will be…

Do include at least one photograph in your post as well. You can also vote for the best entries from the start of the competition till 14 September. Winners of the competition stand a chance to receive gift vouchers worth a total of S$4,500.

For more information, you can refer to www.yesterday.sg/50years.