The AlumNUS
The AlumNUS

3 December 2024

A Meeting of minds on Singapore's strategies for navigating global challenges

A panel discussion at Alumni Reunion@BTC brought together distinguished thought leaders to explore the pressing issues facing Singapore.

(From left to right) Professor Khong Yuen Foong; Dr Selina Ho; Professor Tan Tai Yong; Mr Kishore Mahbubani; and Professor Danny Quah, shared insights on how Singapore can overcome the challenges of current geopolitical tensions while safeguarding its national interests, during a panel discussion at the event.
About 100 alumni, students, and staff attended a panel discussion which brought together distinguished thought leaders to explore the pressing issues facing Singapore as part of the Alumni Reunion @BTC event held on 26 October 2024.

The event began with an opening address by NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye (Science ‘85) that reflected on the nostalgic significance of NUS’ Bukit Timah Campus for generations of graduates, resonating with the shared history and deep alumni connections to the iconic grounds. Looking ahead, Prof Tan highlighted the upcoming celebration of the University’s 120th anniversary, which will be marked by various key events, including a fun NUS120 charity walk around campus in February 2025.

The reflective theme of the event set the tone for the panel discussion that followed. Titled “How Can Singapore Navigate the Continuing Storms of Geopolitical Rivalry?”, it provided insights into how Singapore can continue to navigate the complexities of a polarised world while safeguarding its national interests.

Moderated by Professor Tan Tai Yong (Arts & Social Sciences ‘86, MA ‘89), Chairman of the NUS Institute of South Asian Studies and President of the Singapore University of Social Sciences, the panel featured Dr Selina Ho (Arts & Social Sciences ‘94), Assistant Professor in International Affairs and Co-Director of the Centre on Asia and Globalisation (CAG) at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP); Professor Khong Yuen Foong, Li Ka Shing Professor in Political Science and Co-Director of CAG; Mr Kishore Mahbubani (Arts & Social Sciences ‘71), Distinguished Fellow, Asia Research Institute; and Professor Danny Quah, Dean and Li Ka Shing Professor in Economics at LKYSPP.

ADAPTING TO A NEW GLOBAL ORDER

Dr Ho highlighted the challenges Singapore faces due to rising tensions over Taiwan and the broader US-China rivalry. She emphasised that Singapore is in a better position than most to navigate these challenges, as it has been diplomatically nimble and has taken a balanced approach to both sides. Dr Ho also stressed the importance of continuing to diversify our relationships with major stakeholders, engaging with multiple global players, and building national resilience through Total Defence.

Meanwhile, Mr Mahbubani noted that Singapore’s success has been driven by strong leadership and a once-functional Western-led world order that facilitated global trade. However, he cautioned that challenges lie in navigating a shift to a more dysfunctional state of affairs internationally, which could impact the country’s ability to thrive.
The Q&A session during the panel discussion was keenly participated in by attendees, including Mr Danny Quah (Law '11).

STRENGTHENING COOPERATION

Prof Quah emphasised the importance of bolstering Singapore’s economic resilience and strengthening security measures to protect the nation in an uncertain global environment. He also called for greater multilateralism as a way forward.

Participant Mr Chim Teng Lee (Engineering ’90) found the session insightful. Despite geopolitical tensions, he suggested that NUS can foster collaboration and bridge differences by bringing together local and overseas alumni to share their expertise. By doing so, he believes Singapore can promote better relations and explore new opportunities for cooperation between ASEAN countries, to strengthen regional ties and create mutual benefit.

Another participant, Ms Chew Tai Wen (Arts & Social Sciences ’20), enjoyed the personal anecdotes that were shared by the panellists. Her key takeaway was that while Singapore must brace for uncertainties ahead, she has confidence in the country’s leaders to navigate these challenges effectively. 

The event concluded with a lunch buffet on the historic campus. Alumni caught up with old friends and made new connections, exchanging ideas and reflecting on the points raised during the panel session.
This article first appeared in NUS News on 2 December 2024. Text by Audrina Gan. Photos by Lionel Lim.