Commentary: Complacency is the hidden risk in Singapore’s success
It would be hard to blame Singaporeans for becoming complacent after decades of peace and prosperity, but there’s no excuse for failing to guard against it now, says strategic consultancy managing director Nicholas Fang.
Singapore's decades-long period of peace and prosperity has inadvertently made its citizens complacent, a concern that has been raised by various officials, including Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing. The strategic consultancy managing director Nicholas Fang warns that complacency could weaken Singapore's ability to respond to emerging threats and navigate an increasingly uncertain geopolitical landscape.
The potential consequences of complacency are most acute in national defence, where the willingness to contribute and sacrifice is essential. The example of Ukraine's war demonstrates how complacency can lead to a failure to act on warning signs. Singapore's strong economic performance, which has led to rising GDP per capita and nominal gross domestic product, may create a sense of familiarity that could hinder preparedness for unforeseen challenges.
To address this issue, the government must communicate potential threats, the trade-offs required to overcome them, and the stakes involved, in a way that resonates with ordinary Singaporeans. This communication must be clear, transparent, and avoid fear-mongering or partisan messaging, especially in a politically contested environment.
Citizens, too, have a responsibility to stay informed and vigilant as the global and domestic environments continue to grow in complexity.
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