Tuesday, April 8, 2025

REACH (Telegram) 71 - PM’S MINISTERIAL STATEMENT ON US TARRIFFS๐Ÿ“ข

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๐Ÿ“ข PM’S MINISTERIAL STATEMENT ON US TARRIFFS๐Ÿ“ข

Prime Minister & Finance Minister Lawrence Wong is delivering a ministerial statement on the US tariffs and their implications for Singapore in Parliament now.

Watch the speech live (https://www.youtube.com/live/Z6J0-H7Llhw?si=wddLOFEwoDfA6aD7) and share your views on the ministerial statement here.

๐Ÿ”— [ST] https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/pm-wong-to-deliver-ministerial-statement-on-us-tariffs
๐Ÿ”— [CNA] https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/pm-lawrence-wong-ministerial-statement-us-tariffs-parliament-5049091?cid=internal_sharetool_iphone_08042025_

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
1. Covid impact to jobs and business last 3 to 4 years.

2. Global tariffs war, I believe will also similarly last 4 years (a full term).

3. Covid set aside a budget to assist business, jobs and people's living expenses.

4. If the global tariff war is as bad as covid or worst, fearfully I guess another budget may have to be set aside to help to secure jobs, business and people's living expenses.

365:
Please feel free to correct my history if I'm wrong, I believe in 1930, US imposed tariffs on Japan, leading them to lack trading and resources which prompted them to start attacking the pacific nations in ww2.

I may be overly paranoid, but what I'm worried of is how countries respond to the tariffs. Suppose most countries retaliate and ostracise the US in trades instead of giving in to US, the US is going to lack some resources that they do not have the environment or infrastructure necessary to produce yet. Will it prompt them to use military force to gain those resources? Especially given the fact they have military bases all around the world.

On one hand, we do not want to appear weak and easy to bully. On the other hand, Trump has proven to be unpredictable and may take extreme measures to retaliation.

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
1. The reason I benchmark the Global tariff war against covid is because :-

a. the impact is mammoth - as it cover many industrial sectors (financial, manufacturing, ports, logistics, transport, retails etc).
Covid likewise trigger lockdown and many industrial sectors in limbo.

b. Trade is 3 times the size of our GDP. Tariff on trade will dampen demand, production and port activities.
Similar to COVID, trade dampen as countries are lockdown.

c. Jobs, business are impacted and people's living expenses go up during covid.
This global tariff war will also have similar impact.

Hence, I will consider this as Emergency measure - similar to COVID heightened measures.

Jun Ming:
I predict there might have a war in the next 16 years

While Singapore have no natural resources and insignificant in terms of resources our location is a strategic point for war

I have spoken to my foreign friend they say Singapore is too weak for war. Without the us backing up it can hardly survive in war

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
1. Germany lose the war in world war 1.
Europe force Germany to pay through their nose to compensate Europe.
Germany in extreme poverty give rise to Hitler that form the Nazi adopting extreme ideologies and far right posture.
He managed to psycho his countrymen to invade Europe again to snatch resources and started WW2.

2. US sanctions Japan and prevent Japan from functioning properly as a Nation.
Imperialism arises and military ride on the Japanese imperial to psycho their countrymen to snatch resources - starting with China and then South East Asia.

Jun Ming:
Singapore might force to take side based on our current produce.

1.) food resources. How long  can we survive if an opposing country cut our food source?

365:
Yeah, I'm worried that even though US is still the one imposing tariffs, it may backfire on them and cause them to be desperate, and also considering the fact that they have the highest military spending by a long shot, with many bases around the world. Would he be able to psycho the Americans and justify it by them "taking back what is rightfully theirs"

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
China will be their nemesis.
China military can match US in all domains.

365:
Honestly, economically we will suffer a hit for sure, but I'm positive we can recover latest in 2 years given our diversification and diplomatic ties with many other countries, the potential military side of things is more concerning to me.

Jun Ming:
Military side is not as immediate like what I have said maybe it takes 10 -20 years to go to that state

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
With nuclear weapons - I bet no superpowers will start a world war.

Because one explosion, no one survive in this world because of nuclear winter and radiation.

Those who live will die a miserable slow painful death.

Jun Ming:
They can start something like Ukraine Russia war

Cause what they want is resources

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
Conventional regional war possible.

But a full blown world war with nuclear weapons - unlikely.

Look at how Russia threaten using nuclear on Ukraine, even tactical ones - is to "bua hung" - try  scare tactics - but won't use it.

Because the moment one press the button, to survive, all will press the buttons - and the world will vanish in no time.

Military simulators time and again have proven this.

Jun Ming:
Ya remember the nature of war is to gain something not to destroy everything. Why would they waste money on destroying things

So highly unlikely the use of nuclear. But... Us attacking the world with weapons maybe

And they might target south east asia as they see us as a close tie to china.

Just like how Japanese see us as a back up to china so they attack us

365:
We need to strengthen ties internally within SEA and/or ASEAN

Ideally, ASEAN should evolve past being just an economic alliance.

Jun Ming:
Asean should be like eu

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
US won't kachow us in South East Asia.

He probably more interested in Greenland, Ukraine and Panama canal - where all the rare earth and minerals are.

China more interested in south China sea.

ASEAN too small for US reach.
Also China will not let US touch South China Sea.

By the way, US naval power will be defeated in South China Sea in many military simulation.

China military assets will overwhelm US aircraft carriers.
This is worst if Asia Pacific refuse to support US military.

365:
I agree. The first time I note this is when EU constantly has power to hold companies responsible for ensuring consumer rights, I realize sg by itself does not have this power, companies can just withdraw. If ASEAN can band together like EU, then we can do much more collectively.

We already have a csp with Vietnam this year, that's a first step

Jun Ming:
But they might want to attack china so they would look at the strategic location of the whole asia

365:
Plus they have many bases located near SEA as well I believe

Jun Ming:
And our strategic location is perfect to cut off sea trade in china

365:
If they can find a weakest link to penetrate, such as just one country giving passageway in return of security, it could spell trouble for the region.

It's a lot of ifs right now, but the consequences will be dire if it really does happen

Jun Ming:
A bit racist but we have the same skin colour as china and they cannot differentiate

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
US won't stretch their military to cover Asia Pacific - they will be stretched too thin.

365:
Even if we were to assume SEA region won't be militarily involved, a spillover from other countries involving military war will affect trade and global supply chains even worse than the tariffs

Jun Ming:
What if they attack Singapore and Malaysia first and acquire forces when they go up the region

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
That's why, vote in the few PAP generals in the election.

It could be vital for our existence - as the next 4 years will be dangerous for us to size up the geopolitical development.

Don't play play.

Yes.

This is the real possibility.

US won't commit force if they size up they stand no chance to win convincingly.

Jun Ming:
They no need to win. They just need to weaken the country connection

The art of war: don't lose does not equal to winning

365:
Possibility might be using the threat of military force as leverage, similar to how many ppl are suspecting what the main motive behind the crazy tariffs are right now

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
A bully cannot defeat the whole world.

Jun Ming:
But they can kill the weak and yet rich

365:
But they can bring parts of the world down with them. It really depends on how cooperative countries are with each other already.

Just need 1 country to be weak and give in, and then it crumbles from there, distrust will be sowed and more countries may start giving in.

Jun Ming:
Like Singapore and sea

365:
For example in ww2, Thailand gave passageway to Japan so they would not suffer an attack from Japan itself

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
Don't worry.
ๅ…ฌ้“่‡ชๅœจไบบๅฟƒ。

We must always stand on the side of "Voice of Reasons".

Jun Ming:
But when the ๅ…ฌ้“come we already dead

Singapore is just too small

365:
I can honestly see Myanmar being the weakest link within SEA now, it's easy for the US to buy off the current government right now if they need anything.

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
The most important, we must support our government.

Vote the best brains in our Cabinet.

Don't anyhow play with the votes.

Else we will face with the situation of ๅ†…ๅฟงๅค–ๆ‚ฃ。

Internal disharmony, external threat.

Then we shoot ourselves on our foot.

Jun Ming:
That's why I always emphasis self sustain and not to let foreigners corrupt us

Our crime rate in my opinion is quite high. I think a lot of times is due to our people being corrupted by foreign vice.

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
Also Trump never come to ASEAN to attend ASEAN business summit because of lack of interest.

He only visit Singapore, Sentosa because he square off with NKorea on nuclear.

So unlikely Trump is interested to kachow ASEAN militarily.

Europe, Latin America, Canada, Mexico and Middle East will keep him busy.

REACH Singapore:
๐Ÿ“ข PM’S MINISTERIAL STATEMENT ON US TARRIFFS๐Ÿ“ข

Prime Minister & Finance Minister Lawrence Wong is delivering a ministerial statement on the US tariffs and their implications for Singapore in Parliament now.

Watch the speech live (https://www.youtube.com/live/Z6J0-H7Llhw) and share your views on the ministerial statement here.

๐Ÿ”— [ST] https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/pm-wong-to-deliver-ministerial-statement-on-us-tariffs
๐Ÿ”— [CNA] https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/pm-lawrence-wong-ministerial-statement-us-tariffs-parliament-5049091?cid=internal_sharetool_iphone_08042025_

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
"Trump threatens new 50% tariffs on China".

Total 104% tariffs.
Crazy....

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8rgkkl7v8lo#:~:text=Trump%20threatens%20new%2050%25%20tariffs%20on%20China

365:
There's probably near zero trade between US and China for the near future already. China has been working with other nations to open more trade together, including the EU and Australia.

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
Bifurcation already happening.

365:
And the miraculous fact that China, Japan, and S. Korea are discussing free trade together.

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
"De-Dollarization: US Dollar’s Share in Global Reserves Fall Below 58%".

https://watcher.guru/news/de-dollarization-us-dollars-share-in-global-reserves-fall-below-58#:~:text=2%20minute%20read-,De%2DDollarization,-%3A%20US%20Dollar%E2%80%99s%20Share

Economist assessment of Trump - a sign of empire decline.


https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSrDb6svJ/

Jun Ming:
https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/global-trends/vietnam-offers-to-remove-all-tariffs-on-us-imports/articleshow/120043966.cms

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [5/2/2025 1:05 PM]
3. The World GDP is US$110 trillion minus US GDP US$27.8 trillion - we can still tap on US$82.2 trillion Global GDP to replace our loss if US trade war deepen.
LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:52 PM]
@Babe:6. increasing tariffs will not force companies to move to US because the world economy minus US GDP if $30 trillion is huge - $76 trillions.
Companies will want to sell to the larger global countries instead of US market only.
----
CNA news 05 Apr 2025 06:00PM (Updated: 05 Apr 2025 10:02PM)
Dr Balakrishnan acknowledged that while the US’ withdrawal from the global system is a significant setback, it still accounts for only 14 per cent of global trade, leaving 86 per cent remaining.
“My hope is that the rest of us will double down on integration, win-win solutions, and signing agreements that we will abide by, both in spirit and in the letter of the law,” he said. 
“We need to keep the principle of economic interdependence, efficiency, and competitive advantage. If we can do that, we can still stay in the game."  

For the world to establish trust with US during Trump's term and post Trump - will be more and more difficult.

The world will eye US in distrust and suspicion because the rise of Trump is a manifestation of far right ideologies that detest globalisation and adopt a xenophobic stance in the American society.

Hence it is a good opportunity for the rest of the world to shape a new Global Economic Order (minus US dominated trade economic bloc).

Once bitten twice shy.

We must not allow one Uni Superpower hold the rest of the world by our necks anymore and subject to threat time and again.

Hence we must attempt to ensure multiple middle power trade economic blocs emerge - and multi-polar economic blocs should be a better Global Economic Order.

Not putting all eggs in one basket.

RY:
Whatever strategies to tackle the increase in US tariff, there will increase in the cost of living for whole world and not only SG, bec the US increase tariffs are all countries

We know SG govt always take care of her people. Hence I believe SG govt will provide more Aids/Support to her people during this "tariff crisis"

In fact, SG govt has many supportive programs available to low-income/elderly/biz/unemployment/handicapped and etc , which may tide us through any crisis/hardship and we, people may tap on

This tariff crisis is temporary and not forever. If Trump steps down, the next US President will not be "crazy" like Trump, as even the lovely penguines at North pole, he also want to "tax" them... , as we are aware, tariff wars will lead to lose-lose situation in the end

And many economists already warn that it may quicken the process to "World Depression" (1930s) if such tariff wars will to continue, and we should learn from past history always

Besides, we know Trump just using increased tariffs to threaten other countries to negotiate and side with USA - Thus, dont fall into his "trap", as we have smart leadership in SG also

Many on-going protests (initiated by Obama) in the world against Crazy Trump/Elon, if Trump still persist with this crazy tariffs, US economy maybe badly hit too, as they wont be exempted

What SG govt should focus - depend less with USA trade, and expand its markets with the world eg more FTA, and sametime focus domestic growth/consumption/production amidst the tariff crisis

This tariff crisis will be over ultimately within these few years, when Crazy Trump "disappear" from the political arena

WTO/Globalisation was initially set up by USA, and now they are just slapping their own face now ....

USA will not be the world leader forever, and so is their US$ currency also

As the idioms said
"What goes around comes around"...
all these "hardship" that Trump bring to the world, US may also have to face the consequences later too

Jun Ming:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1AS8oLGBAs/

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSrfeAHqA/

PM Lawrence Wong say will setup a taskforce chaired by DPM Gan Kim Yong to see how business and jobs are impacted and what helps are needed.

Taskforce include Government economic agencies, SBF (Singapore Business Federation), SNEF (Singapore National Employers Federation) and NTUC.

RY:
https://youtu.be/h5QLB0JYw3w?si=zGEKH8K6yvCeTE_x

https://youtu.be/MkauIG5guE8?si=N07My13mouizHQxI

Quite a gd analysis - how SG should face amidst the tarriff wars

365:
Honestly our direct exports to the US are less likely to be affected. The top percentage of our direct export to the US is in biochemical and science related items, such as blood, vaccines, culture samples, toxins, medicament packages. I would think this group is less price-sensitive than consumer goods.

The next largest noticeable one is in operational technology machinery, we need to compare with other countries that are providing these machinaries as well and see how competitive are we relative to them.

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSrfdV3nT/

US tariff will accelerate the fracturing of the global economy, and Asia will bear the brunt because Asia is heavily reliant on trade.

RY:
May expect the next round of tariff increase for semiconductor/pharmacy pdts in near future

REACH Singapore:
๐Ÿ“ขPM’S MINISTERIAL STATEMENT ON US TARIFFS๐Ÿ“ข

Singapore will form a national task force to support businesses and workers in response to sweeping new US tariffs that could slow economic growth and impact jobs and wages, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced on Tuesday (Apr 8).

The task force, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong, will include representatives from Singapore's economic agencies, the Singapore Business Federation, the Singapore National Employers Federation and the National Trades Union Congress.

๐Ÿ’ฌ What are your views on the US tariffs and its impact on Singapore? How do you think Singapore should respond?

Describing the global situation as “fluid”, Mr Wong said in a ministerial statement in parliament that the task force will help businesses and workers address immediate uncertainties, strengthen resilience and adapt to a new economic landscape.

The tariffs are expected to dampen global growth in the near term, which will hit external demand for Singapore's export-reliant sectors such as manufacturing and wholesale trade. The global uncertainty and dampened sentiment will also impact some services industries, including finance and insurance, said Mr Wong, who is also finance minister.

While Singapore “may or may not” slip into recession this year, the economy will be significantly impacted, the prime minister said.

Beyond immediate concerns, Mr Wong said the tariffs confirm the stark reality that “the era of rules-based globalisation and free trade is over”.

๐Ÿ“Œ US TARIFFS “A FUNDAMENTAL REJECTION” OF WTO RULES

The tariffs, announced by US President Donald Trump on Apr 2, impose a universal 10 per cent tariff on all imports into the country, with higher rates for countries deemed to have treated the US "unfairly".

Singapore, which currently imposes zero tariffs on US imports, is still subject to the baseline 10 per cent rate.

“According to the administration, the sweeping tariffs are needed to fix America’s trade imbalances but there is nothing inherently wrong about running a trade deficit,” Mr Wong said. “It simply means that American consumers are buying more from the world than the world is buying from America.”

The US' focus on the trading of goods only gives a partial picture, as the US runs a surplus with many of its trading partners in services, he added. These include the exporting of software services, education, entertainment, financial and business services to the world.

Mr Wong criticised the US approach as a "fundamental rejection" of World Trade Organization principles, such as the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) rule, which states that every member must treat all other members equally.

๐Ÿ“Œ RISK OF FULL-BLOWN TRADE WAR

The likelihood of a full-blown global trade war is growing, the prime minister cautioned. While Singapore will not impose retaliatory tariffs, other countries may. China has already announced countermeasures and the European Union is evaluating its response.

Mr Wong said there is “a brief window” for countries to negotiate with the US before the higher tariff rates take effect on Apr 9.

Said Mr Wong: “Once trade barriers go up, they tend to stay up. Rolling them back is much harder, even after the original rationale no longer applies. The baseline 10 per cent tariff also does not appear to be negotiable, he added.

At the same time, other countries – including in Europe – may follow suit to protect their critical industries from competition. So, the latest US tariffs “may just be the beginning of more increases to come globally”, Mr Wong said.

๐Ÿ“Œ BUSINESS, CONSUMER CONFIDENCE HIT

The tariffs have already shaken stock markets and dented business and consumer confidence, which may take a toll on global trade and investments.

Businesses are fearful that changing rules will leave them with stranded assets. This deep uncertainty, he said, could tip both the US and the global economy into recession.
Beyond economics, Mr Wong sees the new wave of protectionism as a threat to global norms and institutions.

China has said it “will fight to the end” and President Trump has, in turn, threatened to further increase tariffs on China.

“If the disputes escalate and destabilise US-China relations, the consequences for the world would be disastrous.”

๐Ÿ“Œ SINGAPORE MUST BE MENTALLY PREPARED

Mr Wong said Singapore must be mentally prepared for a world marked by more frequent and unpredictable shocks. 
To do so, the nation has to double down on its strengths as a trusted business hub and deepen ties with like-minded partners who share its commitment to open and free trade, he said.

๐Ÿ”— [ST] https://str.sg/3XpF3
๐Ÿ”— [ST] https://str.sg/8vpC
๐Ÿ”— [CNA] https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/singapore-task-force-monitor-impact-us-trump-tariffs-lawrence-wong-5050896?cid=internal_sharetool_iphone_08042025_cna

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
Our government forming a National Task force to tackle the global tariff war - mirror a taskforce to tackle covid - ie. Given the same weight of tackling existential threat.

It is not a trivial matter or an overblown matter.

The threat is real.

https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/us/trade-war-is-on-from-meat-to-toilet-paper-eu-imposes-28-billion-in-tariffs-on-u-s-products-making-goods-more-expensive-for-billions-and-pushing-global-economies-toward-recession/articleshow/120039631.cms

EU impose $28 billion in tariffs on US products.

To address the issues of likely possibility of some business may relocate back to US and results in job losses:-

I feel that the taskforce should do a strategic mind-mapping of industries - sectors-by-sectors, companies by companies.

Eg. US companies to EU companies, China companies, UK companies, Japan companies, SKorea companies, Australia companies etc.

In the event if one US MNC has an intend to reallocate, our Economic Agencies can tie up with alternative competitive companies to replace the leaving US MNC - so that workers in that US MNC can be employed by replacement MNCs without resulting in massive job loss.

Same strategic mind mapping should also apply to the likely loss in US market.

By doing strategic market mapping of US consumer and industrial demands of our goods and services - do a strategic mind-mapping of industries - sectors-by-sectors, consumer market-by-consumer market, industrial market-by-industrial market.

Eg. US consumers, industrial sectors to EU, China, UK, Japan, SKorea, Australia  consumers, industrial sectors etc.

In so doing, we could have successfully:-

1. Discover a new alternative global supply chain.

2. Alternative consumer and industrial market that can fully replace the US market. Hence safeguarding our trade - from reliant on US centric trade to a multi-polar economic blocs trade.

3. Multi-national MNCs to replace US MNCs and transfer our already trained and qualified workers over without resulting in massive job loss.

Jun Ming:
Strengthen partnership in setting up companies in the us

365:
In the long term, we should diversify our local industries as well. I believe we lean heavily into financial services and Maritime right now. I'm hopeful for the upcoming punggol digital district to help us have more local technological capabilities. If we can have something as essential as chip being exclusive or semi-exclusive to us, it'll be a huge bargaining chip in future diplomacy.

Of course, technology is not the only route we should get into, I believe we have a strong foundation for biomedical sciences as well, perhaps more can be explored in that direction.

The crux is that since we cannot be 100% self-sufficient due to land constraints, we must at least have something that can back us up to get more favorable deals in future.

Taiwan is a very good example, them losing tsmc to the US before tariffs are announced means they are in a poor position to ask for anything right now. We want to have a tsmc equivalent in terms of bargaining power, and keep it to ourselves as much and as long as possible.

RY:
As per data, SG has trade surplus with USA, but they still impose tariffs at 10% to SG

Means no matter whether trade deficit/surplus, US will still play the "tariff games"

SG semiconductor industry contributes 7% of SG GDP

That may mean next round of tariff increase (maybe 25%) by USA may affect SG more

SG Govt has to be ready to tackle the next round tariff increase by USA

As per SG Foreign Minister, SG is a open economy, any changes in tariffs or trade wars will sure have impact in SG economy

Luckily, our politicians always have foresight, and join RCEP and CCPIT (FTA) with China & rest of the world earlier

China is the 2nd largest world trade and they always follows with international laws 

Hope with the group FTA, SG may depend less with the ever-changing USA, till the next USA Election

Dont expect much from USA during Trump presidency, as he only supports his own MAGA

Also, he didnt adhere to international rules/law (withdraw WTO), and even own country jurisdiction/law

Expect a world of protests/chaos/riots, under Trump administration till he steps down .. 

Those politicians who always like to threaten/take advantage/changing words and etc - dont think they demand "respect" from the public/world population, and they wont stay in power for long either

Hope the on-going "Hands Off" World Protests will lead to the downfall of Trump in future,

Ultimately, Trump is not the God/King in this planet, that everybody must listen to every of his words and subdue to his "threatening strategy" always

Be Strong SG, and believe we can tide over this "ridiculous trade crisis" with our determination and unity

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
US previous economic strategy is to move the whole manufacturing sectors out to lower cost of production countries to manufacture the products they want. As they consider manufacturing a sweat shop.

While they grow the service sectors (office air con jobs) in US economy.

Hence US trade surplus in services will naturally grow and become dominant in its economy.

Correspondingly, its import of physical goods will be enormous because they don't manufacture goods in house.

Now Trump say the world don't buy products from US - and lead to their huge trade deficits - as the world is robbing on US.

If US is not producing goods, how to buy goods from them?

Hence Trump argument is entirely flaw and smack on the hallmark of a big bully - giving ridiculous excuse for imposing punishing tariffs.

365:
When you are used to bullying, fair competition would seem unfair.

He wants companies to move manufacturing back to US now that they want blue collar jobs, because a good number of the population is sick of corporate

But they want high pay for these blue collar jobs, now whether they buy foreign or buy local, will be more expensive regardless, because their labour cost is ridiculous

RY:
70 years of Globalisation/global supply chain logistics, wont be easily 'defeated" by just Trump tariffs wars

All politicians with economics knowledge, they know what happen in history for past tariffs wars

Also, they certainly know the advantages and win-win situation for global free trade/Group FTA/global supply chains n etc

US labour is not as efficient/productive as many other countries eg taiwan/china/vietnam/japan/korea/european n etc

Hence US will sure unable to move many factories back to USA, due to their own country people quality eg literacy/efficiency and etc eg Taiwan TSMC new factory in USA

With so many other countries politicians shifting their focus away from USA economy/currency/military, they will slowly learn to be more stronger and self-independent in this world of uncertainties/disasters/crisis 

With Trump in power, USA is no longer the so-call democracy that they always claimt to be eg how they suppress freedom of speech in Columbia University recently

SG politicians may also learn from the previous Trump 1.0 USA-China trade war, that no matter how China "satisfy' USA requests, they will demand more and more from China, as we know that US goal is to suppress China growth stronger

Trump 2.0, China finally realise this "mistake" and didnt succumb to USA, so is Canada politicians ๐Ÿ‘

They must be some great politicians that may stay with their principles always and against USA

EU also learning from their "mistakes" and building own military strengths/stands on their own feets in near future

China Tech Advancement  bec of USA-China tech wars, China also catching up much faster than expected eg China air-fighter generation 6/5G and 6G in telco/DeepSeek 

Nowsaday, many countries are standing up due to USA, so is SG also - Learn from other countries mistakes/current crisis also

We can do it together, as we are a United SG and will not tolerate "threatening/bully"

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
Many CEOs are not biting and has indicated to move back.

Reasons being:-
1. Trump is too erratic. One day he say like this. Next day he change it. 3rd days he say something else.

2. Moving business back is a big operation and involved high cost. CEOs will have to do careful cost/benefit analysis before they move.

3. Like you correctly pointed out, there are many negative factors that prevent CEOs from moving their business back. High costs, lack manufacturing skill workers, lack market access to the rest of the world except US market - will serve as deterrence for CEOs to move their business back.

4. Only for those business that cater entirely to US market may consider moving back.

5. For those who cater for the global market - more than $80 trillion market is at stake compare to US $30 trillion market.

So the taskforce will have to do strategic mapping which US MNCs have the biggest propensity to move back - and prepare replacement MNCs as well as port over our workers to the new replacement MNCs.

RY:
Tks Megan for opening up this Chat, and hope our "voices" are heard and help in govt policy/strategy๐Ÿ™

365:
It's a competition of attrition and bravado right now, who will be the first to crumble and give in.

If other nations can find alternative trades and partnerships, then they will not have to give in since they will solve the attrition issue

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ):
Let us call this "Trade Transformation Map".

ไป–ๆœ‰ ๅผ ่‰ฏ่ฎก。
ๆˆ‘ไปฌๆœ‰ ่ฟ‡ๅข™ๆขฏ。

ไธ็”จๆ‹…ๅฟƒ。

6. Also US consumers won't have large income to buy the products made in US because their cost of production will be very high.

7. CEOs will not move their business back because their production no longer competitive - and cannot sell to the world market - too expensive.
CEOs also can't sell alot to US market because their consumers income shrink and product more expensive - so profit fall.

8. CEOs will weigh whether moving back to US make them lose more profits or not.

I think many CEOs will think twice.

REACH Singapore:
Dear Contributors,

⏰ We will be closing the chat in 15 minutes ⏰

Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!
Megan ๐Ÿ˜Š

REACH Singapore:
Dear Contributors

We will be closing the chat for today.

Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!
Megan ๐Ÿ˜Š

Friday, April 4, 2025

REACH (Telegram) 70 - How do you think these sweeping new levies will impact Singapore and Singaporeans? What are the conditions required to ensure Singapore can succeed amidst these disruptions?

(SK)

04 Apr 2025 (10am - 7pm)


REACH (Telegram)

REACH Singapore, [4/4/2025 9:45 AM]

Dear contributors,

Welcome back! ๐Ÿ˜Š

⏰ We will be opening the chat from 10am to 7pm today. ⏰

House Rules (short version of our Terms of Use) to keep in mind:

1. Be kind and respectful. We all want to be in a safe space to share our views. 

2. Any and all threatening, abusive, vulgar or racially, religiously and ethnically objectionable content is prohibited. 

3. Consider the quiet ones among us and give them a chance to comment. 

4. No need to repeat your comment or in differnet forms (including caps) - we heard you loud and clear the first time. 

5. Let's protect each other's privacy and keep contact details in this group what it should always be - confidential. 

Full set of Terms of Use: https://www.reach.gov.sg/Participate/reach-telegram-group/REACH-Telegram-Group-Chat-Terms-of-Use/

We will strive to uphold these rules to ensure this is a safe space for all. 

Please be assured that the points made by participants during the chat are aggregated and shared with relevant agencies. 

The topic will be posted shortly. 

Thank you. 

Megan ๐Ÿ˜Š

REACH Singapore, [4/4/2025 10:00 AM]

๐Ÿ“ข Topic ๐Ÿ“ข

Speaking to the media following US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 10 per cent baseline tariff on Singapore and key partners, with higher duties for many other countries, DPM Gan Kim Yong noted that this would have a significant impact on our economy. He also outlined how Singapore would respond by doubling down on efforts to keep the economy open and engaging with the US. 

๐Ÿ’ฌ How do you think these sweeping new levies will impact Singapore and Singaporeans? What are the conditions required to ensure Singapore can succeed amidst these disruptions?

๐Ÿ“Œ Impact of Tariffs on Singapore ๐Ÿ“Œ

In February, official forecasts put Singapore's growth for 2025 at 1 to 3 per cent but this will now need to be relooked, said DPM Gan. He added that we are at the moment reassessing our economic forecast, and we may need to make adjustments in time to come.

DPM Gan said “I think our households and our businesses have to be prepared for rough waters ahead of us, and they will significantly impact our business as well as households.”

DPM Gan pointed out that some countries are already announcing retaliatory tariffs. “If these tit-for-tat tariff measures continue, it may escalate into a situation where you end up with a global trade war. This will have a significant impact on the global economy,” he added.

๐Ÿ“Œ Keeping Singapore’s Economy Open ๐Ÿ“Œ

Singapore will double down on efforts to continue to keep its economy open, and to uphold the prevailing system of open, fair and free trade among like-minded countries, said DPM Gan.

He noted that the Republic is currently part of 27 free trade agreements (FTAs), which open up avenues for its businesses to explore a presence abroad and expand beyond Singapore’s shores.

It will also engage its other trade partners, especially fellow ASEAN member countries, to see how they can work together to keep their economies ticking.

๐Ÿ“Œ Engagement with the United States ๐Ÿ“Œ

“Under the US-Singapore FTA, we have recourse. We are able to take countermeasures and also seek dispute resolution. However, we have decided not to do so because imposing retaliatory import duties will just add costs to our imports from the US, and this will affect our consumers and businesses,” said DPM Gan.

DPM Gan said Singapore will try to engage the US at multiple levels to understand President Donald Trump's areas of concern and see if they can be resolved.

DPM Gan said there may have been a misperception or a different understanding of the bilateral relationship between the US and Singapore. He added that there may be room for us to clarify, to explain, and hopefully we will be able to resolve some of these issues, including the tariffs.

๐Ÿ‘‰ https://cna.asia/4ljzHCU

๐Ÿ‘‰ https://str.sg/GXdx

----


365, [4/4/2025 10:36 AM]

Looking at our export to the US (I can only get 2023 stats), not a lot of consumer goods are sent, majority is in science or operational technology exports, such as vaccines, blood, nucleic acids, machinery with individual functions, packaged medicaments. 

While tariffs do affect everything, I would think majority of our exports are more price-insensitive in nature. On the other hand, we can look at this as an opportunity. We only received the baseline 10% tariffs, it would help us look more attractive relative to our competitors, who are charged a higher tariff, on an international level.

The tariffs are meant to bring production back to the US, however such a drastic and sudden move means they may not have the infrastructure ready to ramp up production fast enough for consumers. This again means the near-term, we should still look attractive, relative to what is available in the market.

US, while taking up a good bit of our export, is not even our top export market. Hong Kong at 13.4%, China at 11%, then the US at 9.9%. Malaysia is close at 9.43%. I belive our exports are diverse enough that we can easily pivot if needed, and recover quickly from a downturn.

https://oec.world/en/profile/bilateral-country/sgp/partner/usa

https://oec.world/en/profile/country/sgp

REACH Singapore, [4/4/2025 11:00 AM]

[ Poll : I am confident that Singapore can continue to thrive amidst a more uncertain global environment. Please share your reasons in the chat. ]

- Strongly Agree

- Agree

- Neutral

- Disagree

- Strongly Disagree

REACH Singapore, [4/4/2025 11:02 AM]

Dear Contributors,

Please take a moment to participate in our polls and share your opinion. The poll questions are pinned for easy reference, and your vote is anonymous.

We look forward to hearing your thoughts on today’s topic!

Thank you.

Megan ๐Ÿ˜Š

Kai Bin, [4/4/2025 11:04 AM]

I partially feel confident that Singapore will continue to strive amid global uncertainty.

REACH Singapore, [4/4/2025 12:05 PM]

Dear Contributors,

We want to HEAR MORE from you!

๐Ÿ’ฌ How do you think these sweeping new levies will impact Singapore and Singaporeans? What are the conditions required to ensure Singapore can succeed amidst these disruptions?

We have had good feedback from this group, and we hope that we can keep the discussion robust and active! 

Do also share your opinion by participating in our polls! The poll questions are pinned for easy reference, and your vote is anonymous.

Thank you!

Megan ๐Ÿ˜Š

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 12:12 PM]

I think it is best to stay status quo first as that Donald trump say if he thinks you are friendly he will remove the tariff

Adam, [4/4/2025 12:13 PM]

Singaporeans will do well.

Singaporeans will be richer than ever.

In an uncertain world, top rich foreign talent will flock to singapore.

These people will be granted singaporean citizenship.

Our policies encourage this so that we can maintain cmio quota and overcome low fertility. We need to welcome these new singaporeans. Those who do not are nativist and xenophobic

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 12:14 PM]

I have read some online comments since we are the lowest in tariff among the asean other countries may use us as a transition point

Adam, [4/4/2025 12:14 PM]

Always have been

Adam, [4/4/2025 12:15 PM]

But usa most likely will clamp down. See the ai chip fiasco

Adam, [4/4/2025 12:15 PM]

And this day and age, we cant simple follow the law. Technically we can legally transship

Adam, [4/4/2025 12:16 PM]

But trump is going by sentiments

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 12:16 PM]

At most bye bye US. Hello china

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 12:20 PM]

I think trump wants to make fast and vigorous action cause he only have four years

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 12:22 PM]

He wants to dissolve the current system as he thinks the current system do not benefit us

Joomua Tng, [4/4/2025 12:36 PM]

Trump is doing it for his country America 

so is musk.

(the democrats is no longer the same democrats of the past...doing it for the interest of america..which is the reason...america's 2 parties politics is deteriorating from decent to rotting, and heavily indebt.)

.......

the Democrats has been systematically stealing from the country until trump exposed it with the help of musk. their intention is to prevent america from going bankrupt...but ended up finding out the democrats stealing the money and using it to fun terrorists organization.

(in fact American system is infiltrated with hostile agencies seeking to destroy America from within)

.......

whether the tarrifs or what trump does will help America..only time will show the result and outcome.

.......

Singapore is in no position to do anything at all. We are small country. it is our vulnerability, NEVER FORGET THIS UNCHANGED FUNDAMENTAL FACT about Singapore.

.........


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 12:40 PM]

This is a repeat of the history 1930s tariff war launch by US.

That lead to Deep Depression.

And then trigger the World War 2.

Except in 1930s, the tariff is 20%.

This time, Trump up the ante.

10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% and more.

What will be the consequences to global economy?

Nobody can compute.

Will there be another world war, nobody knows.


Adam, [4/4/2025 12:41 PM]

In other news our gov is looking to build nuclear reactors


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 12:41 PM]

The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930, which significantly increased import tariffs, is widely blamed for sparking a global trade war that exacerbated the Great Depression and is argued to have contributed to the economic conditions that indirectly led to World War II. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act:

This act, passed in 1930, raised tariffs on thousands of imported goods, aiming to protect American industries from foreign competition. 

Global Trade War:

The act triggered retaliatory tariffs from other countries, leading to a decline in international trade and further destabilizing the global economy. 

Exacerbating the Great Depression:

The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act is seen as a major factor in worsening the severity and duration of the Great Depression, which began in 1929. 

Economic Conditions Leading to WWII:

The economic hardships and instability caused by the Great Depression and the trade war created a climate that was conducive to the rise of extremist ideologies and political instability, which ultimately contributed to the outbreak of World War II. 

Examples:

Germany, already struggling with the aftermath of World War I, was particularly hard hit by the trade war and the ensuing economic crisis, which helped pave the way for the rise of the Nazi Party. 

The deterioration of international trade led to the formation of regional trade blocs, and countries without such blocs, like Germany, Italy, and Japan, found it increasingly necessary to use military force to annex territories with much-needed resources. 

Controversy:

Doug Irwin, an economics professor at Dartmouth College and past president of the Economic History Association, wrote in 2020, that the Smoot-Hawley Tariff was "one of the most controversial tariff acts ever enacted by Congress". 

Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act of 1934:

The trade walls erected by Smoot-Hawley were torn down by the Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act of 1934 which allowed the president to negotiate bilateral agreements and served as a framework for the multilateral agreements that dominated the post-World War II "free trade" world. 

Source:- Google


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 12:44 PM]

Trump is repeating 1930s history of :-

Tariff war -> Deep Depression -> WW2.

People who don't learn from history, will pay the same lesson from the history.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 12:46 PM]

This time it could be:-

Tariff war -> Stagflation (Stagnant Economic Growth, Hyperinflation) -> WW 3 (?)


Adam, [4/4/2025 12:46 PM]

Isnt stagflation already happing right now?

Adam, [4/4/2025 12:46 PM]

And somewhat hyperinflation


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 12:47 PM]

Now is a minor stagflation.

The tariff war will trigger a mammoth Stagflation.


365, [4/4/2025 12:47 PM]

Stagflation arguably yes, hyperinflation no


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 12:48 PM]

Inflation is below 10%.

Hyperinflation is double digit.

Tariffs of 10% or more trigger double digits inflation.

This is math.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 12:51 PM]

Stagnant Economic Growth is due to :- decrease trade, decrease production, decrease consumption, decrease business activities, decrease investment, decrease port activities, decrease sea transport, air transport, land transport, decrease bunkering service, decrease financial service, business can go bankrupt, and trigger job loss.

Can even lead to social unrest - hence trigger WW.


Joomua Tng, [4/4/2025 12:52 PM]

what the government need to do is to "make" Singaporean understand the rationale behind the essential policies and decision made.

the public does not has the data, information the government has.

thud public perspective and proposal is very narrow and most self interest oriented.

..

thus government must make sure the population understand the direction and rationale of government policies

so that most, if not all, Singaporean are in the same frequency and understanding.

........

during covid, Mr LHL occasionally speaks on TV at essential moment so to make Singapore understand what is happening and doing on.

i feel it is a very good moves and judgement call from Mr LHL.

....

like wise our current government should do the same..

not only during crisis.

but during essential and planned moment...

the reason Singapore able to survive and progress after independent. is that the older generations is on the same page, frequency and in full support of our Singapore government.

however, in today's Singapore that full support and common understanding is less strong as in the past.

thus, the need to comeout and make a speech, together with ground work , to unite Singaporean common understanding.

I feel it is an important things to do.

Sun Tzu's art of war.

้“,ๅคฉ,ๅœฐ,ๅฐ†,ๆณ•

the first factor is the key . without it .. Singapore will disintegrate due to fragmented individual self's interest.

้“่€…,ไปคๆฐ‘ไธŽไธŠๅŒๆ„,ๅฏไธŽไน‹็”Ÿ,ๅฏไปฅไน‹ๆญป,่€Œไธ็•ๅฑไนŸ。

..........


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 12:54 PM]

A massive demultiplier effects of the circular flow of income that depends on trade (export, import), investment, consumption from job income.

If all these multiplier factors are hit, economic growth (GDP) implode and deflate like a balloon.

If global economy deflate, economic recession sets in for many countries.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 12:57 PM]

Trump is a businessman - never an economist.

Elon Musk is a businessman - never an economist.

Hence if elect people who don't understand economic to govern a country - big mess will come in.


Adam, [4/4/2025 12:59 PM]

If only we also elect people who arent  from saf

Adam, [4/4/2025 1:00 PM]

On the plus side, we will have loads of leaders with military in resume for ww3

Adam, [4/4/2025 1:00 PM]

Maybe thats pap's master plan all along

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 1:01 PM]

I think gov bad in explaining policy

Joomua Tng, [4/4/2025 1:02 PM]

if they don't know economic will they be successful businessman?

maybe, yet unlikely.

yes.  ultimately the president will have to make the final judgement call.

before that he as a team of professionals and experts to put up proposal and data ...for the president to make the finalize judgement and decision.

and as a business man, successful business man, their sense of weighing the odds is unlikely ordinary citizens..


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:02 PM]

This coming election, we better don't mess around with our votes, wanting more opposing voices in the Parliament.

We need to elect the best brains into the Government to help Singapore ride over this mammoth crisis.

Because the catastrophe of ๅฐไธ‰็พ (3 catastrophe - Economic war, WW; pandemic; Global warming) has arrived - the manifestations of Humanity ่ดชๅ—”็—ดๆ…ข็–‘ (Greed, Hatred, Ignorance, Arrogance, Distrust).

The worst flaw of Raw Capitalism - couple with malfunction democracy - lead to such precarious situation.


Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 1:02 PM]

I think someone need to lecture what does it mean to Singapore and what are the possible outcome


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:04 PM]

In this very dangerous situation, the BG generals will be extremely vital to size up the geopolitical tensions that will arise.

We need their expertise to ride out any military confrontation that could arise.


Joomua Tng, [4/4/2025 1:05 PM]

nothing wrong recruiting candidate from the SAF.

there is bound to be a few that is exceptionally good.

further more...good people from SAF will not treat defense, defenses budget and security lightly.

......

besides...Mr LHL was from the SAF also...

Adam, [4/4/2025 1:07 PM]

Say, in your hypothetical world of military confrontation, where will singapore side?

Adam, [4/4/2025 1:07 PM]

Maybe with china as we have a large population who are sympathetic


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:07 PM]

We need all the best Cabinet Ministers and civil service - all hands on deck.

I hope Singaporean voters are wise on this - and don't play play with our lives and livelihoods.

The extremely precarious global event is no joke.

Just reflect on the 1930s tariff war will give us a page on how situations will evolve.


Adam, [4/4/2025 1:07 PM]

Or the usa, where we have f35 and defense contracts which might have a killswitch


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:08 PM]

Don't side anyone.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:08 PM]

Just put out the "voice of reason" - to prevent the WW.


Adam, [4/4/2025 1:09 PM]

Ah yes the usual

Adam, [4/4/2025 1:09 PM]

We will monitor the situation


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:14 PM]

Stagflation will then turn into - a deep recession or even deep depression.

Hyperinflation could then transform into a deflation - because consumption fall drastically as spending power falls.

But for some items like food, minerals etc prices could spike because humans must eat.

And the condition of 1930s repeat itself.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:16 PM]

Hence very important for Singapore to secure our food security 30x30.

Cell culture meat, plant based meat very important for us.


Adam, [4/4/2025 1:16 PM]

Dont forget about bugs

Adam, [4/4/2025 1:17 PM]

Sfa just approved 16 species of insects

Adam, [4/4/2025 1:17 PM]

Its a sustainable alternative. Probaly easier to harvest than culture


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:18 PM]

In fact every sectors of our economy very important.

We need all the best Cabinet Ministers intact - to ensure every of our industry sectors are intact and continue to survive if not thrive. And ensure everyone still got jobs and income to tie over.

But at least hold the fort for another 4 to 5 years until the global mess tie over.

Hopefully WW 3 won't break up as we ride out the global mess.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:19 PM]

I cannot imagine myself eating insects, another life form.

Cell culture meat still ok, at least no need to kill the animals.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:21 PM]

And BG generals will be important to ensure that - because the greatest win in a war - is to prevent a war from erupting. 

Fighting to win war is the lowest grade of win in suntze art of war because people dies, infrastructure destruction, economic destruction.

And the mission is to prevent a WW from erupting.

Our Shangrila security forum will be important to ensure that.

Military diplomacy play an extremely important role.


Adam, [4/4/2025 1:22 PM]

You must do what you must to defend singapore in this uncertain environment. Might have to fight wars killing people. Or defend our economy by eating bugs. Both are unsavory but desperate times calls for desperate measures.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:25 PM]

Hence our government leadership in the foreign stage - whether foreign affairs, military, economic development board etc will have a very busy time.

All our best Ministers must be intact and all hands on deck.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:26 PM]

To Trump it is his independence day.

To humanity, this could be our "final moment" - dead or alive.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:52 PM]

*Trump flaw economic policies*

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSrMJy4bp/


@Babe:US economy is imploding showing Trump economy plan is flaw in all ways.

Yet you are picking contextual economics in supporting Trump.


@Babe:1. Government spendings massive cuts without looking into its detail with speed is a deadly train wreck.


@Babe:2. Not increasing tax but just focusing on cutting spendings is like chopping 1 wing and let another wing fly - lead to plummeting economy.


@Babe:3. increasing tariffs as fiscal revenue is a flaw economic tool - because it increase prices to consumers, invite retaliation, disrupt the most efficient global supply chain.


@Babe:4. 1930s tariff war levy by US president lead to WW2.

5. Trump is repeating it.


@Babe:6. increasing tariffs will not force companies to move to US because the world economy minus US GDP if $30 trillion is huge - $76 trillions.

Companies will want to sell to the larger global countries instead of US market only.


@Babe:Hence your flaw economic explanation to support Trump are flaws in all counts.

US tanking economy prove it.


@Babe:1. DOGE massive cuts flaw.

a. cut air controller - plane crash.

b. cut education - lose talents and competitiveness.

c. cut medical r&d and program - pandemic arises (eg. measles)


@Babe:2. Imposing tariffs trigger inflation.

3. Cutting interest rate will cause inflation to go higher.

4. Tax cut will further fuel inflation hike.


@Babe:5. Business & consumer confidence are hit - and will reduce consumption and investment - lead to job cuts.

6. Tax cut won't bring economic growth - as business are not making profit.


@Babe:7. All the mention effects of economic contagion are showing in US economy - and yet you say that Trump economic plan is on the right track?

8. Are you trying to fool everyone - with your flaw theory?


@Babe:1. The full burden of the government spending cuts fall on the 99%, whereas the richest 1% gain.

2. If the mass market 99% lose its spending power, how will the economy do well?


@Babe:US $36 trillion Treasury debt are finance predominantly by foreign countries.

@Babe:Fighting a tariff war with foreign countries will cause retaliation to start selling US Treasury bill and US lose funding to finance its fiscal budget.


@Babe:No countries in the world no matter how big and how rich can close its economy without trading with the world.

Trump is moving US into isolation.


@Babe:1. If foreign countries stop funding US$ and stop using dollars for trade in retaliation, US economy and wealth will plummet.

2. Brics already doing so.


@Babe:1. Massive reckless government spendings cut is a de-multiplier effects - US economy implode.

2. Leading to deflate business activities, reduce consumption, discourage investment & job loss.


@Babe:1. US consumer spending is the main engine of economic growth, making up 68% of the GDP.

2. Reckless spending cut, tariffs that dampen consumers spending power will cause US economy to plummet.


@Babe:You delete good comments that dispute your economic theory.

So if you are not up to challenge, don't show your videos.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:54 PM]

A Maga supporter put up a video in tiktok to explain Trump's economic policies.

My response to him why Trump's economic policies are flaw.


Khai Mun L., [4/4/2025 1:54 PM]

I'll say to ignore usa for the time being and focus on other countries while improving ourselves


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 1:55 PM]

Yes.

This is the best thing we can do.


Adam, [4/4/2025 1:55 PM]

Bruh you cant just ignore a fire while its growing

Khai Mun L., [4/4/2025 1:55 PM]

Continue the work among ASEAN, so that we don't become fractured like the EU or NATO that is deeply tied to amercia economy

Adam, [4/4/2025 1:55 PM]

Or minister already all hands on deck negotiating with usa

Khai Mun L., [4/4/2025 1:57 PM]

What do we have to offer usa. Financial, economy -wise, other countries have it more than sg.

In trump's words, what cards do we have. We'll be similar to ukraine if countries decide to screw with us

Adam, [4/4/2025 1:58 PM]

We offer usa citizens buying our properties without absd

Khai Mun L., [4/4/2025 2:01 PM]

Lol, why they wanna buy property here? Europe is much more attractive.

If want cheap living, then thailand or malaysia

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:02 PM]

Unstable environment.  Need a way to park their assets

REACH Singapore, [4/4/2025 2:02 PM]

๐Ÿ“ข Topic ๐Ÿ“ข

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:02 PM]

Thai? My? Their place unstable

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:02 PM]

Americans can buy more property here without absd if they want a foot out of trumps america

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:03 PM]

We encourage that with the fta we have

Khai Mun L., [4/4/2025 2:03 PM]

With the way that locals are supporting multiple voices in government, stability is not guaranteed

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:04 PM]

But the fta policy that we have with usa was under pap dominance

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:04 PM]

We will be stable. Or at least more stable than anywhere else

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:05 PM]

Even with 10% tariff, people will flock to us because everywhere else is worse

Khai Mun L., [4/4/2025 2:05 PM]

According to trump, is only a minority of amercians that do not support him.

Let them learn it the hard way over time

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:06 PM]

If 0.1% of america buys singapore property, perhaps you can do some math how many houses are bought

Khai Mun L., [4/4/2025 2:06 PM]

Nothing is permanent. Policies can be scrapped if the ruling government is thick-skin enough.

Withdrawal from WHO, invasion of ukraine, developing nuclear weapons, much examples..

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:08 PM]

Yeah, everywhere is bad. Now where is least bad? Right here. Singapore

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:08 PM]

Pap will win this election. This guarentees singapore as a beason of stability

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:08 PM]

People will flock here

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:08 PM]

We will grow our economy

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:09 PM]

Our govt wont scrap such a free trade policy willy nilly. Stability is key to singapores success. Our contract holds weight

RY, [4/4/2025 2:09 PM]

No countries are exempted for Trump 2Apr Tariffs announcements, including SG 

SG are not big enough to "retaliate" like China/Canada/EU n etc

But may seek recourse with WTO with the FTA signed earlier. However US has already withdrawn from WTO 

SG is kind of "bless" that we are one of the lowest tariffs being imposed

Many economists are foreseeing world recession/depression/hyper-inflation due to Trump tariffs contests - who knows

We all know Trump using tariffs as "negotiating strategy"

As SG is too "small" to have any "negotiate power", hence we may seek to reduce trade with USA with the ever-changing Trump strategy

USA is isolating and going far from globalisation, and it is actually has much impact for US economy later 

SG politicians always well-known for their far-sightedness views and efficient governance 

And Trump will not be in power/good health forever, and the most maybe these 4 years, as he is ageing too

Who knows the next US President may overturn Trump crazy tariffs strategy 

As US will not be able to become like China (world manufacturing factory) due to US "inefficient" labour force 

China is catching up US much faster than we expected

US is not the only world consumer market afterall, as SG may expand to other markets eg middle east/africa and etc

US maybe anti-globalisation now due to Trump, but not all the world countries are anti-globalisation 

SG may have to depend US in terms of military, but China for economic

Israel-Gaza war is a gd example to show that USA no longer a model for democracy to the world 

Also, we may see from Ukranine/NATO fiasco, SG shd learn not to depend on US as "faces" may change, since there is no forever foe or friends in this world 

Fm covid panemic, SG also learning to grow own food (if possible) 

Russia able to have war, bec of her less independency eg currency/food/energy and etc 

All the countries are "waking up" especially europeans, so is SG also

365, [4/4/2025 2:18 PM]

Stability has always been one of singapore's core factor. There has been enough diversification in our exports that with the tariffs charged by US, we can still pivot around to other markets. We are not hyper dependent on US for trade. 

While 10% tariffs isn't great for Singapore in a vacuum, looking at other countries, we offer better value with our tariffs being the lowest. Main competitor will be US itself, but their labour cost generally is much more expensive than us as well. Competitively, we are relatively well positioned.

Other countries may apply retaliatory tariffs onto the US, but they are unlikely to apply global tariffs like the US, so there's less concern on an all out global trade war. 

Even China, Japan, and S. Korea are discussing about regional free trade amongst themselves. This shows that there are sentiments still interested in free trade, where we can export more to.

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:21 PM]

You can argue that its a good thing for sg. Even if total global trade will reduce, more countries will use sg as an intermediary. Instead of us pivoting to other markets, other markets will pivot to us to trade with usa

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:22 PM]

Made in neighbor sea with cheap labor. Send to singapore to rubber stamp. Then go to usa still cheaper than native made us goods even with tariff

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:22 PM]

Our middleman economy at its finest

365, [4/4/2025 2:24 PM]

Yeah, that's a good point, but depending on how much is pivoting through us, trump might respond by adding more tariffs on us to prevent this "loophole".

We really have to be cautious about this and strike a balance on how much we want to let through before Trump notices something going on.

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:39 PM]

Yeah trump likely will clamp down on it

Adam, [4/4/2025 2:39 PM]

On the other hand, if our minister is good enough, maybe we can make him close both eyes to what we do

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 2:48 PM]

It's either inflation where sg have no choice to continue import to us or we totally don't export from us


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 3:17 PM]

Personally, I think we can do something constructive as this Tariff War has unleash the biggest challenge in World Trade, Investment and Jobs :-


*In Short Term*

1. Our Government can negotiate with the Trump Administration - what can be done to cushion the impact of Tariff or best, remove it citing that US has trade surplus with us and FTA with us.


a. But on my hindsight, I am not hopeful (because Trump don't listen to reasoning - he only want to bully and win at all cost). 

Even sign FTA agreement and contract - he won't honour.


No countries eg. Japan, Canada, Mexico, EU, Taiwan, S Korea, Vietnam - despite sending VIP to throw in goodies like investment, cut their tariffs, buy more products - can appease Trump and still levy very high tariffs on them.

Having say so, our Government at official level (civil service level) and political level (Minister level) - should still try to negotiate with something positive or more beneficial to us - hopefully.

Though I am not very hopeful....


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 3:33 PM]

2. My close friend comments :-

a. We can look at it from a different angle. Comparatively, tariffs on chinas import is 54% so it will make our exports more competitive as our tariff is 10%.


b. In the short term, it is difficult for countries to ramp up production to take advantage of situation.


c. If country A doesn't produce substitutes of China's products, then it just means that US is killing its own people by levying 54% tariffs on China goods.


d. We should persuade those countries with high tariffs to export to us and we re-export to US.


e. Entire Asia Kenna, and we are the lowest rung. It's a great opportunity if our businesses are creative enough. Capture just 5%, they will be laughing their way to the bank.


f. I'm talking about short term reaction.. take advantage of the situation first. Supply is inelastic. Even if the eventual goal is for manufacturing to go back to US, it will take a few years. And honestly, US politicians are not interested in long term goals. I agree that that the risks of global recession is real. ไนฑๆฅ.


g. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-04-03/us-emerges-as-biggest-loser-in-markets-from-trump-s-tariffs

US Emerges as Biggest Loser in Markets From Trump’s Tariffs

Hurting itself. First to suffer.


h. Another possible side effect is dumping. If tariffs temporatily reduce US from importing, and supply being inelastic in the short term, these "excess" may have to be dumped at lower prices esp for perishables. Sg can benefit from it and lower inflation.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 3:36 PM]

Of course we need to do it tactfully.

Don't invite retaliatory measures.


Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 3:39 PM]

Like what I saw a video on tiktok. China is not afraid of tariff. They just need to focus on their own to create excellent products. 

So my input is if our product are excellent, better than others than we should not afraid of tariff as us will continue to buy


Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 3:40 PM]

It will be a different story if us charge higher price on their export but to my understanding they only charge on their import

RY, [4/4/2025 3:43 PM]

If SG dont have the negotiate power, why waste time negotiating when USA is not the only consumer market in the world ....

In future, we know China may overtake US both economically and militarily and also innovation 

Even US Nvidia CEO is with taiwan origin and he know China mkt cannot be miss

Very likely bec of Trump crazy tariffs strategy, US may also end up with hyper-inflation and depression/recession, with large unemployment 

And we may anticipate/foresee political unstability in US in near future eg already protests all over US now

Work with "stable" countries that keep to their promises eg China/EU/Asean/MiddleEast n etc, rather than focusing on the ever-changing  like Trump 

Who knows that Trump maybe impeach like South Korea, as he is executing many strategies thru threatening eg  Colombia University 

Supporting Israel/Jewish community, also means how dark is US politics ... 

Trump will not be in power forever, and not every country must "listen" to him, as he is not God ultimately  

If another world pandemic/ recession will to happen again, Trump will sure not be able to handle eg look at how he handle covid pandemic - failure ... 

Trump will not be US President

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 3:44 PM]

This is why we need to focus on our local talent. Today tariff and tmr all American talent to go back America.

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 3:44 PM]

We should try to self sufficient as much as possible

RY, [4/4/2025 3:47 PM]

Exactly, Russia is a gd example, bec of their many resources, their economy is not greated affected by the world sanction during russia-ukraine 3yr war

365, [4/4/2025 3:48 PM]

Resources are limited, self-sufficiency comes at a cost. Balance is required between self-sufficiency and foreign imports.

Foreign imports itself can be diversified (which I believe is already done) to further reduce risk on over reliance on any single country.

365, [4/4/2025 3:49 PM]

Other measures such as stockpiling also reduces near term risk in the event of trade war.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 3:49 PM]

*For long term*


1. For the long term, we should not just be focus on One Big Consumption Country - putting all eggs in one basket - and let it hold everyone by its throat - worst lead to a Global Deep Depression and possibly WW3.

This is a good lesson that the Whole World should learn.

1930s Tariff war triggering Deep Depression that subsequently lead to WW2 - is a good lesson. 

I hope the whole World should learn from it - and not fall into the trap of another Tariff war, Deep Depression and WW3 (this time could be nuclear war - and humanity perish).

This is a good window opportunity for the rest of the world - to promote multi-polar trade blocs and many middle power consumption blocs or countries --- to insulate the whole world of another Global trade war and another consequential World War.


RY, [4/4/2025 3:52 PM]

Talents not only in USA, many talents around the world eg India/China/Taiwan n etc 

China Deepseek is a gd example of innovation vs OpenAI 

China BYD cars also beat Telsa already 

Look at USA Intel, if not bec of govt supporting the company, they already bankruptcy 

Taiwan TSMC is a another gd example of innovation, but regret Taiwan didnt have gd govt to protect her industry

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 3:53 PM]

I am referring foreign talent and imported citizen. Yes they are important to teach and setup companies here. But bear in mind they are from foreign land and their family members are in foreign land. Like what china have done to force people to go back by threatening their kids will not have education before


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 4:00 PM]

LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [5/2/2025 12:16 PM]

1. The only way to wriggle out of this mess - geopolitical tussling between US and China - is to promote multi-polar consumption superpowers,  middle powers and middle power blocs instead of relying on 1 consumption superpower - US (through reconfigured global supply chain and trade blocs).


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [5/2/2025 12:20 PM]

2. That means, China need to ramp up its economic activities through more innovation, create jobs, boost domestic consumption, develop less developed 2nd tier city, rural areas, boost its service sectors and put itself out as 2nd largest consumption country in the world like what US use to do.

And promote trade with its trading partners like Singapore.

And Singapore will benefit immensely if China succeeded to do so.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [5/2/2025 12:24 PM]

3. ASEAN with many young vibrant middle income population should also follow the same model through integrated trade and investment.

I feel that our economic integration with Malaysia Johor economic zone, Indonesia joint venture industrial park, Vietnam joint industrial park, energy grid integration etc - are very good to facilitate intra ASEAN trade.

As economic integration materialise within ASEAN, Singapore will benefit from growing trade within ASEAN as well as becoming a growing consumption middle power nations bloc.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [5/2/2025 12:27 PM]

4. India, will also be an up and coming middle power chasing behind China - and as long as India are willing to slowly open up their economy through investment, trade and business - our foot into India will also bear fruits for us as India middle income population consumption appetite is huge.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [5/2/2025 12:40 PM]

5. In Asia Pacific, there are other middle power nations on its own right eg. Japan, SKorea, Australia and to a lesser extent New Zealand.

We should see how to facilitate more trade and consumption among these countries - except the challenge is their declining population that stifle consumption and hence the margin for trade growth could be limited.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [5/2/2025 12:42 PM]

6. Looking afar, the biggest consumption economic bloc is the EU and UK.

I feel that if our EDB and IE enterprise work a bit harder, we can slowly grow our trade to compensate for losses in the US market by promoting Singapore as a trade hub to ASEAN and our neighbouring countries.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [5/2/2025 12:44 PM]

7. Next the more untapped market is South America eg. The larger middle power nations such as Brazil, Peru and Chile.

Less information on their income and consumption pattern as well as their appetite for more trade.

But a good untapped market that we can explore more.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [5/2/2025 12:45 PM]

8. Like South America, it also apply to Africa continent.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [5/2/2025 12:48 PM]

9. Middle East countries are rich and heavily dependent on oil - but increasingly stress by global countries will to go green.

Hence many rich Middle East countries are looking for ways to diversify their economies.

I think Singapore can tap this middle east market to help to bolster our trade.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [5/2/2025 1:00 PM]

10. Last but not least are the Central Asia Countries which are also least tapped like South America.

But their population income and consumption pattern also need more study.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [5/2/2025 1:05 PM]

To summarise, we need a deliberate process to map out a total "multi-polar middle power nations and middle power trade blocs and consumption nations" :-

1. We need to identify the Comparative advantage in trade, exchange of labour and resources of each trade blocs and middle powers (and ensure they have redundancy among them).

If one member within the bloc is disrupted, we can easily ramp up trade with its redundant member to ensure the trade supply chain are not impacted.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 4:00 PM]

2. This "multi-polar middle power nations and trade blocs" consumption nations must be fully self sufficient - which should be an alternative to one large consumption nation (ie. If one day US decide to shut and isolate itself completely out of world trade - we are able to rely on this alternative trade blocs to survive) and maintain our US$1.5 trillion trade and US$501.4 billion GDP.


3. The World GDP is US$110 trillion minus US GDP US$27.8 trillion - we can still tap on US$82.2 trillion Global GDP to replace our loss if US trade war deepen.


4. Singapore is a little red dot, a mere 5.6 million population.

To find an alternate $1.5 trillion trade and maintain our $500 billion GDP is less tough compare to other bigger countries with more mouth to feed.


5. By promoting this "middle powers and middle power trade blocs" to WTO - a more comprehensive trade strategy will be conceptualised at the global stage - and made WTO mission more meaningful to exist - without the mercy of one dominating unwilling superpower that held the world trade by its throat.


6. It will also release the pressure from building up globally - that could lead to WW3 - if no alternative are found.


7. Hence multi-polar middle power trade blocs (with build in redundancy) will release the economic stress of relying on one large consumption nation to fuel the economic growth of the world countries.


8. The baton should be passed on and helm by every members of WTO.


9. Then globalisation will take on a new meaning and purpose to thrive into the next phase of global economic development -.and postpone or prevent a WW3 through a rejuvenated WTO.


10. The existence of the rejuvenated WTO will be more meaningful to ensure its gainful fulfilment of its mission of fostering trade, business, investment to ensure world prosperity and hence securing world peace.


11. A new meaning and purpose is given to Globalisation as a fuel for World economic growth - minus the negative sentiment that now fuel the far right movement and nationalisation in US and EU - as the economic fruits of globalisation, trade, investment and jobs are shared widely by all strata of the population and nations instead of concentrating on the few richest.


Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 4:01 PM]

Back to tariff I think for now talk to the us and see what are they planning to do next. We can't do much

RY, [4/4/2025 4:02 PM]

SG has to learn fm EU/covid pandemic, dont depend on USA solely

Learn to be independent, build up strong bilateral relationships with other countries 

As world is round, and we have to expand our markets 

SG only resource is humans and invest heavily 

SG dont have much resources like other countries, but we have our uniqueness eg entreport trade/gd bilateral relationship/political n social stability/gd financial reputation n etc, that our fore-fathers have built up over the past years 

Even westerners/africans are studying SG-model successful system 

SG maybe small, but we are the top 5 in many areas eg airport/sea port and etc

REACH Singapore, [4/4/2025 4:02 PM]

๐Ÿ“ข Topic ๐Ÿ“ข


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 4:03 PM]

I have written all this posts before.

I think it's even more relevant and more appropriate to bring them up again - as Trump unleash a global tariff war - that could totally change the world economic order.

It is time for us to spur the world countries to reorganize ourselves to a New World Economic Order.


Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 4:03 PM]

We only can train ourselves to be stronger in all aspects to be the best and break our best in all sectors.

RY, [4/4/2025 4:15 PM]

Fm History, every leader country will fall one day eg UK/Japan n etc

USA maybe the next, bec of crazy Trump 

He dont even show respect to other countries supremacy eg want to take over panama canal and greenland and etc 

USA will ultimately receive "retaliation" from other countries and the "show" is beginning  

We are not US citizens, we are not obliged to 'follow/listen" to Trump 

Let Trump be notorious and be isolated fm world economy these few years during his administration, as he wont live forever

SG Govt may re-focus on other "good" markets 

Since SG is too small and dont have much negotiating power/resources, dont waste too much time/effort on just one market/country (USA) - my opinion always


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 4:15 PM]

"Global markets in turmoil as Trump tariffs wipe *$2.5 trillion* off Wall Street

Richard Partington Senior economics"

https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/global-markets-turmoil-trump-tariffs-181621597.html#:~:text=at%20any%20time-,Global%20markets%20in%20turmoil%20as%20Trump%20tariffs%20wipe%20%242.5tn%20off%20Wall,Richard%20Partington%20Senior%20economics,-correspondent


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 4:49 PM]

"Trump tariffs risks $700 billion blow to global GDP, with U.S. hit most.

Rising import costs to hit American corporate profits and consumer spending".

https://asia.nikkei.com/Economy/Trade-war/Trump-tariffs-risks-700bn-blow-to-global-GDP-with-U.S.-hit-most#:~:text=Trump%20tariffs%20risks,and%20consumer%20spending


RY, [4/4/2025 5:21 PM]

Increasing tariffs will NEVER be a win-win situation 

That is why every country opt for FTA in the past 2 decades including SG/China/Asean

As globalisation will bring economic of scale to the world trade 

Only crazy Trump is stepping backward, and implementing lost-win global trade situation

Indirectly, he is also pushing increase of cost of living to his americans, and affecting US sametime

Dont think Trump has much economic knowledge from what he is executing so far 

Almost every economists are giving "warning" to USA failing economy in near future with Trump increase tariffs policy

RY, [4/4/2025 5:29 PM]

Besides, Trump is always putting inappropriate people in unsuitable position eg the Defence Minister whom has very little military background, as he was just a TV host previously

The US leaking Signal military msg fiasco is a laughing-stock for the whole world to watch 

The recent Celebrity Diddy fiasco, may expect more dark politics secret leaking in near future also 

In fact, we are everyday busy watching american "dramas" nowsaday


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 5:50 PM]

Anyway even without Trump launching a Global Tariff War yesterday - US Treasury debt of US$36 trillion will still be unsustainable.

One day, it will implode triggering something more serious in the financial and economic market.

We and the world should take this opportunity and current pain to wriggle out from a US dominated Economy and form a New World Economic Order not reliance on US economy, trade and finance.

It must be many multi-polar middle power economic blocs and a few Big Power Blocs to replace One Uni Economic Bloc.


REACH Singapore, [4/4/2025 6:05 PM]

๐Ÿ“ข Topic ๐Ÿ“ข


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 6:19 PM]

Fed got to issue one Treasury bill one after another when older TB bill mature to pay creditors the principal amount and interest upon maturity - to finance US mammoth yearly recurrent fiscal spending.

Foreign countries buy their TB to support their US $ - and US debt keep accumulating.

One day, it will implode and unable to pay and service its debt. US TB bill become a junk bonds and US $ become banana money when the rest of the world boycott US.

So should exploit this tariff war opportunity to form a more sustainable new world economic order - and not let US and Trump hold the world by our necks.


RY, [4/4/2025 6:29 PM]

Totally concur, and just dont depend on USA solely 

Luckily for SG Govt, we always have budget surplus to tide us over every  crisis including pandemics

Thanks to our MAS/GiC/Temasek investment efforts and making S$ currency always strong ๐Ÿ™

It is time to have a "change" from USA to other country

Dont always use 'bully/take advantage" strategy against others

It will come to a time when some countries may retaliate also


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 6:31 PM]

The logic is if Trump want to isolate itself from the rest of the world and punish trade:-

1. Why the world need to use US $ as money of exchange for trade?

2. Why the world need to buy US TB bills to support US $ and finance its yearly recurrent fiscal budget?

Can't the world come out with better approach to finance trade and invest in liquidity to earn better returns than using US $?


365, [4/4/2025 6:31 PM]

There are already countries that want to trade in local currency, the tariffs will just accelerate the same consideration for more countries


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 6:32 PM]

Bi-lateral currency swap for trade is a good approach because we are using a basket of currencies to determine our S$ currency exchange.


365, [4/4/2025 6:32 PM]

I'm pretty sure our government is holding on to US currency reserve as well, we'll be taking a blow, but will be able to recover from it

RY, [4/4/2025 6:32 PM]

Yes, the BRIC grp may invent BRIC currency

365, [4/4/2025 6:34 PM]

Despite green and renewable energy being a focus, oil is still very relevant in today's economy, and quite a few oil rich countries have joined or expressed interest to join brics+

RY, [4/4/2025 6:35 PM]

The big 5 currencies, USD still leading and dominating 

And countries are smart nowsaday and wanted to shift away fm USD reserves n hold more Gold nowsaday


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 6:36 PM]

Holding gold is safe but offer no return on investment.

Only when sold at higher value and other countries want to buy then got values.

TB bills earn interest + principal and is more liquid.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 6:37 PM]

Hence we must think of other TB bills other than US TB bills to earn returns and interest to maintain our liquidity.


RY, [4/4/2025 6:37 PM]

Every countries is already learning lesson fm Trump fiasco

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 6:38 PM]

Just hope they cancel the policy within weeks or months

RY, [4/4/2025 6:39 PM]

Unlikely

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 6:40 PM]

Maybe musk can persuade him not to do so

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 6:41 PM]

Anyway just don't rely too much on the us it is a very messy country

RY, [4/4/2025 6:42 PM]

Elon another crazy billionnaire, dont depend on him also


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 6:43 PM]

That's why don't admire US malfunction democracy.

It will harm us more than it help us.


Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 6:45 PM]

I vote based on people not on party.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 6:45 PM]

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/east-asia/china-impose-34-percent-tariff-us-goods-donald-trump-5044786?cid=internal_sharetool_androidphone_04042025_cna

China to impose tariffs of 34% on all US goods from Apr 10


Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 6:46 PM]

I think people will not buy on us products

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 6:46 PM]

And improve domestic or regional spending

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 6:47 PM]

Anyway the shipping fees from us are expensive

REACH Singapore, [4/4/2025 6:47 PM]

Dear Contributors,

⏰ We will be closing the chat in 15 minutes ⏰

Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan ๐Ÿ˜Š

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 6:47 PM]

So as an individual I will try to avoid us products


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [4/4/2025 6:48 PM]

1 chicken don't know will cost how much if all tariff are compounded.

$10 become $50?


Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 6:49 PM]

Before the tariff being imposed you can see the price difference of us products and products from other countries

Jun Ming, [4/4/2025 6:49 PM]

So to me not much difference

365, [4/4/2025 6:49 PM]

US has always been expensive, nothing's gonna change on this end

RY, [4/4/2025 6:50 PM]

Thank you Megan for initiating the Reach Chat today ๐Ÿ™

Gd Evening Reach Team & Participants

REACH Singapore, [4/4/2025 7:00 PM]

Dear Contributors

We will be closing the chat for today.

Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan ๐Ÿ˜Š


====


Wednesday, April 2, 2025

REACH (Telegram) 69 - What are your views on the Government's engagement efforts even as Singaporeans grow increasingly diverse in their experiences, perspectives and world views? What more do you think REACH can do to strengthen ties with and among Singaporeans?

(SK)

02 Apr 2025 (10am - 7pm)


REACH (Telegram)

REACH Singapore, [2/4/2025 9:45 AM]

Dear contributors,

Welcome back! ๐Ÿ˜Š

⏰ We will be opening the chat from 10am to 7pm today. ⏰

House Rules (short version of our Terms of Use) to keep in mind:

1. Be kind and respectful. We all want to be in a safe space to share our views. 

2. Any and all threatening, abusive, vulgar or racially, religiously and ethnically objectionable content is prohibited. 

3. Consider the quiet ones among us and give them a chance to comment. 

4. No need to repeat your comment or in differnet forms (including caps) - we heard you loud and clear the first time. 

5. Let's protect each other's privacy and keep contact details in this group what it should always be - confidential. 

Full set of Terms of Use: https://www.reach.gov.sg/Participate/reach-telegram-group/REACH-Telegram-Group-Chat-Terms-of-Use/

We will strive to uphold these rules to ensure this is a safe space for all. 

Please be assured that the points made by participants during the chat are aggregated and shared with relevant agencies. 

The topic will be posted shortly. 

Thank you. 

Megan ๐Ÿ˜Š

REACH Singapore, [2/4/2025 9:59 AM]

๐Ÿ“ข Topic ๐Ÿ“ข

At the recent REACH 40th anniversary launch ceremony on 29 March 2025 (Saturday), Prime Minister Lawrence Wong spoke about the evolution of public engagement in Singapore and the Government’s increasing commitment to citizen engagement. He shared about the impact of public feedback on policy, and REACH's new role in building bridges between different communities in Singapore increasingly diverse society.

๐Ÿ’ฌ What are your views on the Government's engagement efforts even as Singaporeans grow increasingly diverse in their experiences, perspectives and world views? What more do you think REACH can do to strengthen ties with and among Singaporeans?

๐Ÿ“Œ REACH's Journey of Transformation

From its humble beginnings as the Feedback Unit in 1985 to its current role as REACH, the unit has continuously pioneered innovative approaches in citizen engagement, including the use of digital platforms to engage Singaporeans. This evolution reflects the Government's deepening commitment to consultative governance and inclusive policy-making.

๐Ÿ“Œ Impact on Policy Development

Citizen feedback has directly influenced numerous policy changes. Some examples from the last two years include flexible work arrangements, shared parental leave, the Majulah package for seniors, and education policies such as the revamp of the Gifted Education programme. While the Government may not be able to agree to every suggestion, each one is carefully considered and when necessary, the Government will explain and offer alternative solutions. 

๐Ÿ“Œ Collaborative Solution-Building

Beyond traditional feedback channels, the Government has introduced innovative platforms for citizen participation, including Citizens' Panels, Youth Panels, and Alliances for Action. These initiatives empower Singaporeans to actively participate in developing solutions for complex challenges.

๐Ÿ“Œ Building Bridges in a Diverse Society

As Singapore grows more diverse in perspectives and experiences, REACH will renew its focus on facilitating both government-to-people and people-to-people connections, creating safe spaces for conversations including on challenging topics like race, religion, and social mobility. These efforts are aimed at harnessing diversity to enrich society instead of allowing it to pull us apart. 

๐Ÿ‘‰ [Speech] https://www.pmo.gov.sg/Newsroom/PM-Lawrence-Wong-at-REACH-40th-Anniversary

๐Ÿ‘‰ [ST] Govt feedback unit will reach out to niche groups, bridge dialogue on thorny issues: Tan Kiat How | https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/govt-feedback-unit-will-reach-out-to-niche-groups-bridge-dialogue-on-thorny-issues-tan-kiat-how

๐Ÿ‘‰ [CNA] New conversations between civil society leaders to be launched to discuss difficult issues like race, religion: PM Wong - https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/lawrence-wong-reach-government-feedback-race-religion-5032246

----


365, [2/4/2025 10:55 AM]

Public engagement is definitely a positive trend for Singapore.

I suggest a forum based approach to suggesting public policies, with login tied to singpass to prevent spam.

Citizens can post suggestions for changes, with other citizens up/down voting to decide which should get more priority.

There can be a government account (like an admin) to reply to or acknowledge threads, possibly citing limitations that make the change impossible, or challenges that they face and can crowdsource for further ideas.

I realize the potential for abuse, and banning abusive/troll members can lead to unjustified dissatisfaction. 

Hopefully there are other people who have an idea on how to resolve this issue as I think there is an upside potential if used properly.

Jun Ming, [2/4/2025 1:02 PM]

diversify platforms for feedbacks. When reach switch to telegram some left because some citizens are not familiar with telegram . So perhaps those who wants to stay in whatsapp can have a whatsapp groupchat so  reach will have a better coverage of feedbacks.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [2/4/2025 2:00 PM]

With the celebration of REACH 40th Anniversary, PM has launched the Next Lap for REACH, a new chapter.

1. Previously, REACH engagement with the public for feedback and consultation is G--to-P, G-to-B (Government-to-People, Government-to-Business)


2. In this new chapter, REACH mission is open up another form of engagement to become a mediator to facilitate P-to-P, C-to-C (People-to-People, Community-to-Community) - that is building bridges among the Community.

This is an expansion into a new role in REACH engagement, in addition to G--to-P, G-to-B (Government-to-People, Government-to-Business).


3. 6 themes have been identified in this new engagement, and I believe it can be classified into 2 thrusts :-

a. Economic Thrust

b. Social Thrust


a. Economic Thrust

i. Resource Competition - eg housing, jobs, transport

ii. Economic Inequality - eg. difference in income and wealth

iii. Rapid Social  Technological Change - eg. keep up with technological advnaces and changing societal expansion.


b. Social Thrust

i. Differences between Communities (eg. different priorities & concern between groups)

ii. Loss of Shared National Identity (eg. as we grow more diverese, what does it mean to be "Singaporean")

iii. Ethnic, Religious or Cultural Divisions (eg. tensions caused b differences between ethnicity, religions or cultural backgrounds).               

                                                                                                                                                            Putting all these in perspectives, it is then possible to have more focus discussions on :-

i. the various themes 

ii identify the various appropriate approaches that enable constructive communication and build bridges among the communities.


REACH Singapore, [2/4/2025 2:04 PM]

๐Ÿ“ข Topic ๐Ÿ“ข


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [2/4/2025 2:33 PM]

1. As communities become more diverse, different priorities, different concerns, different expectations, different needs and wants will emerge - leading to tensions pulling the Country, Government and Communities in various directions.

This will be our challenges in the Next Lap.


2. What will ensure that despite the differences in various communities and different pull - our Nation can still remain intact, not polarise, not divisive - and yet pull everyone together?


3. Hence the need to identify a *Superordinate Goal* - a higher-level objective that transcends and unifies smaller, disparate goals or interest. that binds different elements together.


4. We need to keep reminding and keep Communities, People and Participants in focus -- our "*One Nation*" as our Superordinate Goal.

Regardless of how passionate our diverse communities in their various interest and priorities ---- we must always keep in mind "Our One Nation" that we dwell in, we live in, we study, we work, where we build our wealth, bring up our children, we retire - our One Nation must continue to be intact, survive and thrive and must not do things that bring it down.

ๆฒกๆœ‰ๅ›ฝ,ๆฒกๆœ‰ๅฎถ。

(No Country, there will be no home, no communities, no future).

If we mess it up, we and our children will live in fear, in frustration and in despair.


5. This will help everyone to search for :-

a. Win-Win solution (Mutually beneficial outcomes)

b. Compromise outcomes - we lose some, but we also win some

c. Outcomes that not only benefit our communities, but also other communities and the whole Nation - by being able to empathise (Able to sit in our shoes, as well as sit in other's shoes).

d. This will help to build constructive, effective bridges among the Communities even for very difficult, sensitive topics or themes.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [2/4/2025 3:03 PM]

*Economic themes*


1. Personally, I feel that themes in Economic thrust, deep discussion can be less emotive, rational, logical, surgical, math, economic principle approach can be applied to provide solutions to :-

a. Allocate resources fairly

b. Reduce Gini coefficient - to tackle economic inequaltiy

c. Rapid changing technology and social change


2. Because it is all about economics, dollars and sense - and focus more on our IQ (Intelligent Quotient), WQ (Wisdom Quotient) -- and to a lesser extent on our EQ (Emotional Quotient).


3. There are already well structured solutions and approach that time and again discuss in REACH topics whereby (mathematics, economics, accounting approach) to formulate effective solutions to allocate resources fairly, reducing Gini coefiicient, redistribution of wealth, educate in rapid changing technology.


4. For eg. the Government has build MRT and bus services, private hire, car sharing, private ownership of cars etc, ramp up supply of various types of BTO flats to ensure it is affordable, ensure enough job opportunities (attracting investors etc), education in IHL, continuous training, reskill etc.


5. The challenge is on the "Social Thrust" - which appeal to "Emotive faculties" of the people especially very sensitive topics - Religions (and to lesser extent races).


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [2/4/2025 3:27 PM]

*Social Themes*


1. Of all the 3 social themes, 2 themes:- differences between Communities (that include different priorities and concerns), loss of Shared National identity as we grow more diverse --- are not so difficult to deal with --- because as we enroute to Nation Building since 1965 Independence --- our Government has do well to be able to :-


a. Economically ensure different Communities priorities and concerns are addressed by each Communities leaders as well as through National resources specifically Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasians (or Others).

I think we can continue to use these approach even though the Communities diversity can grow more complex - as the approaches are time tested and proven effective to build a harmony and cordial relationship within the Communities and among the Communities.


b. To address the fearfulness of loss of Shared National Identity - we must constantly organise programs and activities to remind all our people our *Superordinate Goal* --- to always keep in mind our *One Nation* we dwell in, to immerse with new citizens, PRs and foreigners our culture, cultural heritage, our unqiue ways of lives, our Singlish, our hawker centres, our activities in CCs, RC activities etc that uniquely defined us as *Singaporeans*.

I think throughout our Nation Building since Independence, we have successfully build our unique Shared National Identity even though we are made up of different races, religions, commnuities, languages, culture.

We can continue to reinforce these approach to ensure our Shared National Identity will not be lost.


2. The 3rd Social theme ---- *Religions* will be the most sensitive, more emotive as they are strongly, emotionally attached to each individual due to their strong belief about current life and afterlife.

Anyone who raise different perspectives and viewpoints - will likely to elicit strong emotional responses --- and must be carefully managed, control and rationally, logically discussed - by fully removing any "emotional feelings" during and after the discussion.


A separate more elaborate discussion will be needed to dwell into this topic - because if not managed properly (especially between P-to-P or C-to-C) - all hells can break loose.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [2/4/2025 3:58 PM]

*The most sensitive topic - Religions*


1. This is the most sensitive but very important topic - Religion.


2. Because individuals have strong belief and emotionally attached to Religions - a belief in which how a person should live in this current physical life and after life.


3. Religion has a strong mental motivation - to keep an individual live, behave, interact with people of same belief and people with different beliefs and people with religions can swear (live and die) by their belief.


4. But when managed properly, all mainstream constructive religions can guide people to behave well, behave morally and able to live peacefully within their communities and other communities.


5. But when different religions are to be discussed among people of different faiths ---- it is a totally different story all together because :-

a. Different perspectives of "Divine" will be brought up for discussion - there will be individuals who may feel uncomfortable with - as "Divine" is unique and different to individual of different faiths - as what they have learned or taught.


b. There are 2 big branches in Religions, namely - Atheism and Theism. And we must not forget those who are "free thinkers" - non-believers of religions.


c. If the discussion settings are not properly managed and controlled, very strong emotive responses can be triggered - and participants can be negatively impacted.


d. Having say so, discussion on Religions is not a completely "no-go" - but must come with very stringent conditions --- especially when it is conducted between "P-to-P, C-to-C".

Not P-to-G because Government are usually more objective, more controlled, less emotional and can see the bigger perspective - and can handle emotive situations and emotive people - due to its resources, and bright people trained to handle such situations.


e. Taking a cue on the "Inter-Religions/Faiths Council" - that make up of Religious Leaders of Different Faiths in Singapore - whereby Religious Leaders are invited to discuss different faiths, religions, laying out all their holy books and openly discuss the similarities and differences among the various faiths to find common ground and interact and live harmoniously ---- I feel that it can also be done for "P-to-P" or "C-to-C" who are not religious leaders.


But very stringent conditions and selections ---- that mirror the qualtiies of Religious Leaders - will be needed - to ensure discussion of different faiths will be fruitful and successful --- without causing a situation whereby "All Hells break loose".


We can discuss these conditions and selections separately.


REACH Singapore, [2/4/2025 4:04 PM]

๐Ÿ“ข Topic ๐Ÿ“ข


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [2/4/2025 4:38 PM]

*Why such sensitive topic - Religions are to be brought up for P-to-P discussions?*


1. Personally i feel that there are quite a few good justifications to dwell into this topics among the people because :-

a. Religions inspired conflicts other than geopolitical confrontation, economic confrontation - is one of major trigger source of conflicts throughout the history of mankinds eversince different religions are taught and learned by human mankind.


Hence if religions of different faiths are properly identified, understand, collated and unified into a Superordinate Goal of "Divinity" - that guide individual in our this physical life and afterlife --- which essentially we are talking about the "Same thing" but through a "Different lenses" and "Different perspectives" ---- then misunderstanding, inability to accomodate different viewpoints from different faiths will be grossly reduced --- and less frictions, less intolerance, less misunderstandins will arise - and more tolerant, understandings, mutual co-existence, mutual acceptance of different faiths will become possible.


Human mankinds could have stop conflict - arising from differences in the interpretation of Religions or "Divinity"..


b. An analogy to describe this :-

- Divinity is a puzzle, and every religions is a jigsaw.

If we put all the jigsaws from the various religions into a puzzle - we can see the complete "Divinity".


c. Another analogy, each faith touches a different parts of a big elephant (some touches the trunk, some tusk, some tail, some body) -- and claim the big elephant is based on what it touches.

But once we put everyone's experience together, the image of a complete Big Elephant emerge.


2. Hence we can do similar thing to fully understand what "Divinity" is - as an important window of opportunity arises due to the following development :-

a. Classical physics and science - has been breakthrough with quantum physics and quantum science --- that are able to prove many "theories" and "ideologies" that classical physics and science cannot explain and prove.

For eg. quantum superposition, quantum bits, quantum entanglement, quantum teleportation, Einstein spooky actions at a distance can explain and prove many "Divinity theory" that people thought is ็ฅž่ฏ fairy tales.

Human can exist in different realms every moment -- due to the above quantum physics such as the Schrodinger's cats can be alive and dead at the same time, but in different states as observed. ๅฐๅŒ–่บซ。


b. Advanced maths can prove and construct the ideologies and theories of different faiths.

Eg. Omnipotent paradox etc.

็Ÿ›็›พ (I create the strongest, sharpest spear that can penetrate any objects. I create a shield that can withstand any sharp objects that can not penetrate)


c. AI (Generative AI) - can pull, categorise, summarise and present in words, pictures and videos - of different faiths holy books/teachings, religious practitioner's experience, holy people experience, classical science/physics, quantum physics, mathematics, etc -- and present the understanding and image of "Divinity" in text, image and video form.

With more advancement in AI - greater clarity to unified all Religions into what "Divinity" is -- become more and more possible.


d. Advancement in Quantum Computing together with AI that make computation in enormous speed ---- I believe will bring "Divinity" into greater clarity.


LCL (Danny ๅฟƒ), [2/4/2025 4:56 PM]

*Conditions for Religions discussions and Selections*


1. The conditions for deep dive Religions discussions will be stringent to ensure constructive discussions based on critical thinkings, logical and rational arguments, supported by facts, resaonsing, if possible science, maths, quantum physics, techonologies etc, words used must not be disrespectful of other faiths different from ours, not using codescending words, harsh words, demeaning words, devoid of emotion discussion (that can trigger anger, hatred, strong argument or quarrel).


2. Hence the qualities of participants selected for Religion discussions must be :-

a. Good EQ (Emotional Quotient) - more controlled, less likely to flare up.


b. Well verse in his/her own faiths to carry out discussions (supported by his/her religious teachings) or a religious practitioners who has innately immerse in his/her faith


c. Able to understand and, empathise or correlate other religions and faiths into his/her own faiths.


d. Participants should possess 3 important attributes :-

i. No-Self (Selfless) - able to see big pictures not to champion only own belief, but able to empathise and correlate other faiths into what he/she know in his/her own faiths and practice.

ii. Compassion - able to emphatise with self and others

iii. Wisdom - able to piece up all the different jigs from differnt faiths into a whole big puzzle.


3. I feel that for a start, face-to-face discussion will be too daunting in such inter-faith Religions discussions - because not only we know the names, but also the faces is displayed - and should any negative emotions break up, all hell break loose - "no where to hide".


Hence a Telegram or WhatsApp platform with anonymous credentials for a start will still be preferred.


But most important, enabling the attachment of sketches, images, videos from Telegram or WhatsApp will be needed - because a simple picture to piece up all the ideas in pictorial form ---- will reveal the "Truth" and crystallise more effectively --- rather than typing out "thousand words" - that can subject to interpretation - worst "wrong interpretation".


REACH Singapore, [2/4/2025 6:02 PM]

๐Ÿ“ข Topic ๐Ÿ“ข

REACH Singapore, [2/4/2025 6:46 PM]

Dear Contributors,

⏰ We will be closing the chat in 15 minutes ⏰

Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan ๐Ÿ˜Š

REACH Singapore, [2/4/2025 7:02 PM]

Dear Contributors

We will be closing the chat for today.

Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan ๐Ÿ˜Š


====

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Disagreement with WP due to flaw with WP alternative policies

 1. Nationalisation of public transport - drain taxpayers money, inefficiency, cannot bid overseas project.

2. Minimum wages

3. Retrenchment insurance 

4. Use more nirc 60% - no GST 

5. Land sales to finance recurrent budget 

6. Raid our reserves 

7. No GST - lose Government tax transfer 

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/wp-object-budget-2022-gst-hike-pritam-singh-2525071#:~:text=Workers%27%20Party%20disagrees%20with%20GST%20hike%2C%20will%20object%20to%20Budget%202022%3A%20Pritam%20Singh

8. Use money laundering confiscated proceeds to compensate scam victims

9. WP Manap - want politics, governance to mix with religion citing Islam operate this way.

https://mothership.sg/2019/10/news-parliament-shanmugam-faisal-manap-religion-politics-separation/

"Shanmugam repeatedly questions WP's Faisal Manap over separation of religion from politics.

Eventually, WP chief Pritam Singh stepped in to make a statement."

"But I think ultimately for a Member of Parliament of any political party in Singapore, I think it’s important that you remember that you have to represent the interests of every community, not just yours."

At least this time, WP leader using his conscience "own self check own self" - his member suggestions is not implementable in a secular society in Singapore.


====

I have jotted a few alternative policies proposed by Jamus in which he champion in Parliament and a few by WP MPs (some are economic policies he can influence as economist but he supported them).


They are:-


1. Minimum wages (without productivity growth) - make our labor forces uncompetitive and drive up business cost and consumer cost.


2. Use more nirc 60% - no GST hike. And use up reserves meant for our future generations.


3. Retrenchment insurance (with no incentive or push for re-employment and training). End up more workers will drop out of the workforce.


4. Use Land sales to finance recurrent fiscal budget & raiding our reserves as land supply is finite. No more land for future generations.


5. No GST tax - lose Government tax transfer and redistribution of wealth to lower Gini coefficient. And impact our fiscal sufficiency.


6. Nationalisation of public transport during MRT fault - drain taxpayers money, lead to inefficiency, lose opportunities to venture into overseas market.


7. Use money laundering confiscated proceeds to compensate scam victims instead of setting up Trust fund to earn income to fight scam and compensate scam victims.


@Babe:If this guy and WP are to govern Singapore - Singapore will finished!


@Babe:As an economist making such fundamental economic mistakes are deadly for Singapore.


@Babe:1. There are so many layers of government in formulating government policies before it finally settled in Parliament.

2. Not a blank check or own self check own self.

3. This show his ignorance.


Layers of check & balance in policy formulation:-

1. Civil service - department 

2. COPS - Council Of Permanent Secretaries 

3. Parliamentary Secretaries in various Ministries 

4. Public Consultation with Private Professional Bodies

5. Cabinet Ministers 


Before presented to Parliament debates.

Oppositions rarely value add to amend in Parliament because it is robustly debated.

-----

@Babe: 2 party system results in a deadlock government.

Just look at US, UK, S Korea and many others - changing government like changing clothes.


----

@Babe:Can Harpreet Singh  create jobs for Singaporeans, run the economy, solve our enormous trade problems plummet by tariff war?


@Babe:What solutions is he proposing to secure Singaporeans jobs threaten by AI, trade tariffs, tech disruption?

What is WP alternative governing policies for Singapore?


@Babe:Having some good catches does not translate to a party that can govern.

chan Sao Mao, jamus Lim, Pritam, Sylvia are star catch - but no good governance policies.

can trust WP to govern?


@Babe:Pritam, Sylvia are lawyers.

Why need another lawyer?

Singapore need economists, job creators, Generals to size up geopolitical tensions, technologists, governance planners.


@Babe:WP don't have a coherent governance team.

Haphazard recruitment - whoever that comes along.


----

@Babe:They suggest 70 year lease. Then top up for 29 years.

1. When you retire, got money to top up?

2. If 70 year lease expires, no where to live.


@Babe:3. If want to sell the flat with lower lease, cannot fetch good price.

4. 99 year lease, people already say barely enough, these 2 jokers say HDB flat should start with 70 years lease?


@Babe:Can Singaporeans trust them to govern Singapore?


-----

@Babe:Abolish exam - then our students will lose competitiveness in the workforce.

Singapore students is top in the world.

Is he going to make our students lower our education standards?


@Babe:He is a reject by PAP.

That means many of his viewpoints are flaw.

I don't agree with his few viewpoints that is detrimental to Singapore.


@Babe:In the workforce, staff are required to be certified for professional exam. eg. ccie, ACCA etc.

If you don't pass exam, it means the staff lack competency.

No exam means competence?


@Babe:Also banning tuition will drive it underground into a black market.

This happen to China.

Those who are rich can engage tutors and make inequality worst.


@Babe:Also you are killing the jobs of the tutors and driving tuition industry out of business causing unemployment to Singaporeans.

Your ideas is not workable.


@Babe:And banning tuition will means those who need help to understand their subjects better - are deprive of the means to do so.

Your ideas make our students competency go down.

Bad ideas.


@Babe:can talk well and sing well - means Minister grade?

I have serious doubt about democracy and the response from gullible voters.


@Babe:Trump can speak very well and fool all his maga voters.

Now he create a big mess in US economy.


@Babe:All these new WP candidates should push out what alternative policies to govern Singapore.

Credentials doesn't means they can govern.


@Babe:Let voters make critical assessment whether their policies are workable for Singapore or not.


@Babe:Passing exam is a test to determine if a student is competence with the subjects.

No exam, then students won't study, play only.

As employers, you think will employ students who only know how to play?


@Babe:He will be producing Singapore students that employers won't want to employ because of lack of competency.

---

@Babe:CDC, GST vouchers, utility rebate, senior bonus etc - 4 member family receive > $10,000 rebate.

More than GST, inflation rise. 2% $48,000 - GST hike= $960.


@Babe:Your idea is copying what PAP is currently doing and what REACH has proposed in great details.

@Babe:This is not your ideas.

@Babe:Plagiarism.

@Babe:There are exact date and time stamp on concrete proposal how to tackle Trump tariffs in REACH.

----

@Babe:1. How you make HDB affordable?

@Babe:1. PAP make HDB affordable by:

a. Increase supply to meet demand.

b. Peg income to HDB price - so that owners pay little or no cash (only pay via CPF) on 25 years loan.

@Babe:You reduce age 28 single to buy HDB - means increase demand to exceed supply - then flat price will rise.

@Babe:1. PAP provide generous housing grants from fiscal budget surplus that are accumulated by PAP.

@Babe:Then it contradict your statement making HDB flat affordable.


@Babe:Singapore is facing low TFR to replace our population.

By reducing age 28 single for HDB, are you discouraging marriage and to have baby?

@Babe:Also by reducing singles at 28 years old to apply flats, are you encouraging youth to leave their parents and siblings away from their family and live in isolation?

@Babe:Now, though supply of flats are ramp up, but still not sufficient to cater to marriage couples and elderly housing.

Lower single 28 years for HDB will increase flat price.


@Babe:You are not fixing problem.

But exacerbating housing problem.

----

@Babe:You say you want to increase retirement adequacy and financial security to increase CPF returns.

PAP is already working on it.

Are you regurgitating what PAP say?

----

@$hejej:He said it before Lawrence wrong ministerial statement about task force and before trump pause the tariff. Go see the time stamps of both.


@Babe:When?

The decision was made way before that.

Public announcement is made only recently.


@Babe:Do you know that coining the plan alternative global supply chain and setting up of government taskforce was discuss many months ago in REACH?

If you say Harpreet say it before PM is flaw.


@Babe:In REACH the details are delve at length including the targeted markets, region by region, sector by sector many months ago.

You attest it to Harpreet ideas?

Don't steal people's credit.

----

@Babe:He is not telling the fact.

Tharman refuse to be PM.

But SM manage to convince Tharman to contest as President.


@Babe:You are intruding into racial politics by lying on facts.


@Babe:He specifically cited Tharman which is not true.


@Babe:Tharman step up to clarify he is not interested in the PM post.

There is no ambiguity in the fact.

But Harpreet conclude it his race that prohibit him to be PM which is wrong.


@Babe:DPM Tharman rules himself out as next prime minister: 'I am not the man for PM'

ST PUBLISHED Sep 28, 2016, 09:27 PM

https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/dpm-tharman-rules-himself-out-as-next-prime-minister-i-am-not-the-man-for-pm


@Babe:PM Larewnce Wong reinforced publicly - no discrimination against race in PM post.


@Babe:Lawrence Wong Would Welcome A Minority PM.
25 Jun 2021
a forum on the topic of “Race & Racism in Singapore” was organised by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) and RSIS.

----
@Babe:Can WP find jobs for supporters when tariff bring down all business and jobs in a dominoes effects?
It is happening in China now.
Soon Singapore will feel the effects.

@Babe:NTUC membership surpasses 1.4 million ahead of May Day.
Because massive job loss may come.
Good luck.

@Babe:Global supply chain already broken and bifurcated.
Businesses along the supply chain will broke in a domino effects follow by massive job loss when plants close suddenly.
How is WP solve this?

@Babe:Vote in more oppositions.
See whether they can help you or not.
Only PAP can help you.
Not WP, not oppositions.

@Babe:Without jobs.
With bifurcation that disrupt global trade, business will get impacted.
There is no need to talk about healthcare, education, housing etc - if massive jobs are loss.
What is WP solutions?

@Babe:Tariff war effect will reach us soon and mass job loss could happen.
PAP is seeking alternative global supply chain to secure jobs for us.
Can WP do it?
If can't, don't take up the space in Parliament.

@Babe:If the Ministers securing jobs in Parliament lose their seats, don't ask WP to seek jobs for you.
So far I know WP is incapable of securing jobs for Singaporeans.
Singapore future is at stake.

@Babe:This is not a game of cards.
This is my life and your life.
Don't knock it down.

@Babe:If tariff, business collapse, mass job loss, no income - what's the point of cheap housing, education, healthcare - people no money to buy.
If WP can't secure jobs for voters - let PAP win & do it.

@Babe:What is your solutions to make housing, education,. healthcare, food, grocery cheap?
So far all WP policies are not workable.
Talk anyone can talk, real solutions got or not?

@Babe:WP don't have an alternative working policies. Most of its policies don't work or will give problems.
If WP cannot govern, why vote for WP.
How WP going to create jobs for Singaporeans as tariff hit.

@Babe:How you intend to cut price?
Cut GST, load with debt?
Dig into reserves?
Sell lands & deplete it?
Talk easy, solutions leh?

@Babe:WP manifesto - Wealth tax, estate tax - chase away the very rich.
Middle & lower income pay even higher GST, tax to compensate?

@Babe:Biden manage economy well but price are high.
And voters punish him by going for Trump promise everything under the sun.
Now deep regrets by voters.
Singapore voters - be wise & don't follow the eg.
----

@Babe:These companies say they're investing more in U.S. manufacturing as tariffs go into effect.
The threat to our jobs are very real.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/us-manufacturing-domestic-tariffs/#:~:text=These%20companies%20say%20they%27re%20investing%20more%20in%20U.S.%20manufacturing%20as%20tariffs%20go%20into%20effect

@Babe:When MNCs move back to US - mass job loss is very likely.
Good luck if we vote in more oppositions - they won't be able to help us.

@Babe:ไธ€ๅคฑ่ถณๆˆๅƒๅคๆจ。
Vote wisely.
Our livelihood at stake.
Our children future at stake.
Vote PAP.
Oppositions won't be able to get jobs with overseas countries.



More Oppositions - Malfunction Democracy

 @Babe:1. More oppositions means deadlock government.

2. Resulting in malfunction democracy.

3. See what happens to US, EU, UK, S Korea, Japan.


@Babe:4. Most opposition policies don't work.

5. Why are we paying more oppositions in Parliament that cannot come out with working policies?

6. What happens in a fluke election that oppositions become gov?


@Babe:7. We need best brains to form the cabinet - to tackle enormous global events.

8. The best brains are not with the opposition.

9. Why let oppositions fill up the seats?


@Babe:7. More Oppositions force government to adopt populist policies detrimental to long term planning for short term gratification.

8. This means use up more reserves, less savings and more debts.


@Babe:9. Western democracy kill us.

10. Don't just copy blindly.


@Babe:1. Having more oppositions in Parliament waste alot of time arguing rather than governing.


2. Most of the time, policies that are submitted to parliament has gone through many rounds of verification within civil service, consultation with the public or private sectors, Cabinet before tabling to Parliament.

3. Oppositions rarely value add to the tabled policies.


@Babe:1. The notion of own self check own self don't apply.


@Babe:1. CPIB can bypass the PM and seek President approval to investigate anyone.


@Babe:No own self check own self.


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"Laos plans to pull plug on crypto miners by early 2026".
Crypto doesn't create value compared to supplying it to industrial or commercial consumers.
We proposed to the government in 2021 to supply to crypto mining due to the oversupply of electricity domestically," Soukaloun told Reuters, adding that the industry creates few jobs and does not have a supply chain that benefits the economy.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/laos-plans-pull-plug-electricity-supply-crypto-miners-early-2026-5406701#:~:text=Laos%20plans%20to%20pull%20plug%20on%20crypto%20miners%20by%20early%202026

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