ST Global Outlook Forum: Singaporeans need to better understand the region, says Chan Chun Sing, Singapore News & Best Features



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SINGAPORE – There is a real need for Singaporeans to better understand the region, so that the Republic can add value as a stepping stone or gateway when it joins those wishing to enter the Asian market. Southeast, said the Minister of Trade and Industry, Chan Chun Sing, Wednesday, November 28.

"Many people like to say that they use Singapore as a platform for the region, as a stepping stone to the region, as a gateway to the region," said Mr. Chan during the meeting. a dialogue session held at the Straits Times Global Outlook Forum at the Raffles City Convention. Center.

"We can really do this only if our people have a deep vision of what the region is, of its diversity, so that we can add value when we work in partnership with people who want to … work (here) We need to do a lot more, "he added.

Mr. Chan was responding to a question from ST's editor, Ravi Velloor, on the observation that Singaporeans tend to focus only beyond the region.

The minister noted that even if Singaporeans continue to move to more established markets such as the United States, Europe or China, they should maintain a sense of balance by knowing what is happening elsewhere.

"I've met (leaders of) many multinationals … who say that if our people want to reach the highest levels of leadership in their big companies, it will require knowledge of the market not just from Singapore and from established cities of the world, but also some of the emerging markets.

"It's there that opportunities begin," he said, adding that schools had a role to play in sending students abroad to countries in the region.

In response to a question from moderator Zakir Hussain, editor-in-chief of the ST newspaper, Mr. Chan said he wanted Singaporeans to take less traveled paths and come back with good ideas on how to improve life here.

Having such a perspective is important for Singapore, as the more successful a country is, the more it tends to focus on domestic affairs rather than the larger forces at stake in the world, Chan said.

"We must also … help people to understand the external environment in which we must operate, if our people understand it, then this desire, this vigilance, the desire to stay ahead will be there," he said. -he declares.

"For Singapore to continue to be successful, we must never allow ourselves to focus only internally."

Asked how Singaporeans can avoid being left behind as other countries develop rapidly and on a larger scale, Chan said that technological developments would not be linear and that emerging technologies would allow less developed countries to "advance" the more developed countries.

The Republic, he said, must be aware of its weaknesses and strengths, which include its long-term prospects and strategies, as well as the rule of law and a predictable business environment. where people can flourish.

"If we are not determined enough, there is absolutely no reason for anyone else to take away our lunch," he said.

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