Even though the city of Johor Bahru is no more than a kilometre across the river from Singapore, the differences between the two are startling. Predominantly Muslim, Johor Bahru is absolutely filthy; a large building site that in truth has seen its better days.
Singapore by contrast is a city that sparkles from top to bottom as if Mr Sheen Shine nips around every night, polishing every window, each lamppost, and even individual gutters, all in time for rush hour.
Singapore is known as The "Fine City" due to its Orwellian government, who dole out social behavioural fines to its residents and visitors like one might dole out candy to children.
1000 Dollar penalty for neglecting to cross the road within designated crossing lanes.
500 Dollar penalty for eating or drinking in public.
500 Dollar penalty for unauthorised dancing.
A "fine" city indeed!
