S'pore 'is not without agency', has built capabilities and is stronger: PM

It will respond to the global transition with agility, actively shape own destiny, he says

- Lim Yan Liang Deputy News Editor and Hariz Baharudin Correspondent

Despite its limitations as a small state whose prosperity has depended on a global order that is now fraying, Singapore cannot afford to be a passive bystander in an evolving landscape and must actively shape its own destiny, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

"Singapore today is not without agency," he said, of how the Republic is not the same country it was when it first became independent 60 years ago. "We are better resourced, more capable, more connected than we were in 1965."

While it is once again in uncharted waters and still has no natural resources, the city state has built deep capabilities, financial reserves, and is stronger and more resilient, said PM Wong.

Singapore will therefore respond to the global transition that is under way with agility and resolve, and will actively shape its own destiny, he said in a speech that detailed the steps his Government will take to navigate an increasingly fragmented world.

Delivering the 14th S. Rajaratnam Lecture, PM Wong said Singapore will do so in three ways: by contributing actively to the stewardship of the global commons; championing deeper regional integration; and strengthening its global network of partnerships.

"We have forged strong friendships around the world. The Singapore brand is well regarded, and we enjoy a deep reservoir of international goodwill," he told an audience of more than 900 guests, including senior government officials and members of the diplomatic corps, at the Singapore University of Technology and Design on April 16.

More importantly, Singapore is not alone, he said at the lecture, an annual platform organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) for distinguished public figures to speak on topics related to diplomacy and international relations.