Hello.
After 16 months of discussions with more than 200,000 Singaporeans, Singapore unveiled the Forward SG report, outlining its vision for an inclusive, thriving society. The input of those engaged has been factored into the development of new policies and programmes – notably, the revised HDB housing model and forthcoming unemployment support for retrenched workers.
While many of the report’s findings had been alluded to by Singapore’s political leaders, Forward Singapore is the most ambitious and extensive effort for national engagement to date. The challenge facing Singapore now is how it can strengthen support networks for its people, while keeping its economy competitive and dynamic, says Terence Ho of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy.
Ever got annoyed with a fellow commuter watching TikTok videos at full volume on the train or bus? There are strong measures to tackle unacceptable noise levels in residential estates – but not so much on public transport. Dr William Wan of the Singapore Kindness Movement explores if noise on public transport should be taken just as seriously.
In international news, the question on everyone’s mind is whether the Israel-Hamas war will spiral into a wider conflict in the Middle East. Though the threat of escalation is ever present – Houthi rebels in Yemen have fired drones and missiles at Israel – regional players are reluctant to enter the fray. Iran, for instance, knows that openly confronting Israel would pose an existential threat, so can only resort to hardline rhetoric, says this professor of Middle East politics.
We hope you enjoy our selection of commentaries this week. Stay connected for timely updates and comprehensive analysis.
Erin Low
Deputy Editor, Commentary
