One can argue until no end why Singapore is successful. Singapore's success was because there was strict enforcement of law. That is as simple as ABC ! Many failed because there is no strict enforcement of law. Too many to mention here. Corrupted politicians or heads of government were charged and at the end, all let off lightly. Country wants to succeed, there must have political will to strictly enforce the law, but then how many have such steel will to do it ???
Not really that simple. It all depends on that person's character and moral standing. Many poor people and whose salaries are low are honest and sincere.