Commentary: As a small country, soft power is particularly important for Singapore

Commentary: As a small country, soft power is particularly important for Singapore

ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL Equality

Singapore is frequently praised for its financial success, but its cultural accomplishments are no less remarkable. Over the years, investments in education, open housing, and healthcare have established solid foundations for equitable progress. Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in the world right now, so maintaining inclusive development requires new policies to improve social security and maintain social mobility going.

Unrestricted globalization has increased inequality over the years in many advanced economies and prompted a response from the financially underprivileged. As a result, proper- wing conservatism is on the rise and nations are turning isolated.

Singapore can serve as a model for inclusive growth and development, where economic benefits are distributed across society and with options for all to advance in life by increasing cultural funding and support.

Diversity and inclusion should be a cornerstone of the Singaporean identity. Singapore has always prioritized racial and religious harmony as a country with expat stems that experienced social unrest in the 1960s. We must continue to promote the idea of equality by making newcomers and migrant workers feel welcome and a part of our group, so that everyone flourishes under the Singapore tent today. &nbsp,

Singapore has the opportunity to demonstrate the way in political discussion that is informed and courteous and political opposition that enhances rather than divides world at a time when the excesses of political politics are eroding social unity in many countries.

Singapore is now widely known and admired internationally, but its soft power can be tremendously enhanced through stronger business models, inventions, and characters, along with a reputation for equality. &nbsp,

As a result of more advancement in each of these areas, Singapore will be able to have a bigger impact as a country that inspires people and societies around the world.

Terence Ho is a Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy Associate Professor in Practice. He is the creator of the 2023 book, Governing Properly: Reflections on Singapore and Beyond.