Singapore Reflections

Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS-NUS) Hernaikh Singh Rajni Nayanthara Gamage

Residencies are always wonderful. This time, I divided my time to read, write and meet a cross section of people in Singapore. NUS – Institute of South Asia studies were kind to provide me with a good working space as a Senior Fellow and great living in the faculty housing at Kent Vale.

They key takeaways from the trip meeting a cross section of people, preparing and delivering the seminar on Reimagining South Asia.

1.?????? Singapore understands the geo-political challenges looming at it must balance between China and the West. They have earned the credibility that every country in the world respects, therefore, they will chart the path best for the country and its citizens.

2.?????? Singapore stays focused on its citizens. Do not want to assert soft power or become a global supercop. For instance, they want their currency to stay low key so that there is no speculation and unnecessary complications that come with it. They want to focus on a better standard of living for their citizens and take up issues from sustainability to wellbeing.

3.?????? 2024 will be tough, it is not the potential Taiwan conflict that may shake the region as US China military hotlines have been established but the skirmishes growing between Philippines and China that would put the entire region into a challenging position.

4.?????? For Nepal three key messages and lessons:

a.?????? First China is interested in expanding its footprint in ASEAN as culturally and historically it has relationships here. This will be their focus area and may not be South Asia. So, for Nepal, key to work with India as it has more cultural and population proximities. Indian economic rise is for the long run, hitch your wagons.

b.?????? Focus on STEM education especially mathematics and science. This will ensure better quality of human resources that can take up better opportunities around the world. Build credible institutions. NUS moved from just 8,000 students to 40,000 students in four decades ranking eight in the world and highest in Asia Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings (WUR).

c.?????? A smaller state have to always assert itself, learn how to grab the attention of the larger countries that surround you. Preparation for meetings, agreements and other arrangements have to be well thought out in advance, have a national consensus and engagements have to be at regular intervals.

From my first time at NUS 26 years ago when I came for an executive education program, there has been drastic transformation. The greenery just baffles you. The internal transportations have become more efficient and reaches every nook and corner of the different campus locations. Food choices have grown while prices have not, and your campus meals are cheaper than eating in Kathmandu average restaurants.

Learning is a continuous process and I love it. Thank you Iqbal and Hernaikh for the opportunity. Rajni, thanks for moderating the seminar and I see a great think tanker emerging in Sri Lanka.