In Singapore, Job market in the skilled category seems to be saturated and matured. On the categories of semi-skilled and low- skilled the salary is respectively higher than other emerging markets.
You may find citizens as taxi driver or shop keeper. They are very humble and appreciate tourists (according my narrow observations).
Some points to note down:
1- It takes time!:
The development strategy started long ago from 1970s therefore (1) - Economic Development takes time at least 30 to 40 years for a less than 10 million population economy.
2- Political Stability and good relation with neighbors:
Let's not forget the role of developing and emerging economies close to Singapore: China, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.
3- Localized Strategy and Support:
They have found their own way of economics development
and strategy matching to their culture and integrity.
For example, you can find so many western brands of cafes, shops and retails however, vast majority of the population and tourists attracted in the Asian cuisine or Asian type of clothes. Take a look at this article on how a Korean App on Chat with mobile is capturing the market and make the market harder for its western allies (2).
4- Rationality in authorities decisions:
There is a consistency and stability pattern in authorities decisions and policies. Except from the rule that is little bit annoying: Chewing gum is banned strictly in Singapore.
Source:
1- Foreign Labor and Economic Development in Singapore
Pang Eng Fong & Linda Lim
National University of Singapore
http://www.jstor.org/stable/2545368
2- http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/0/004a67e6-edf4-11e2-816e-00144feabdc0.html