News stories by Gregory Xavier

In this fast-developing South-east Asian country where dizzying neon signboards and glass-clad skyscrapers have been overshadowed only by a colourful political battle, a group of young photographers are hoping their work behind the lens can bring human rights back into focus.

South-east Asian neighbours Malaysia and Singapore have had several political spats over the years, including long-running arguments over water supply and a territorial dispute over the Pedra Branca islets at the eastern entrance to the Straits of Singapore.

'Estimated waiting time: 3 hours', read a handwritten sign near the tail of the snaking queue outside the Istana, which is usually used to receive state guests. Yet thousands of Singaporeans waited patiently despite the sun beating down mercilessly.