With a population between 3 and 4 million, over 75% Chinese, Singapore is a small city-country well known for being efficient and safe, with a mouthwatering food scene and great shopping. Although it is one of the 20 smallest countries in the world, its economy is a world leader, and has the world's busiest port in terms of tonnage handled. Half lion and half fish, the mythical Merlion creature is the official tourism icon of Singapore. Built in 1972, the grand Merlion statue stands in Merlion Park with the Central Business District behind.