Road safety, drug addiction among Sim Ann’s focus areas as Second Minister for Foreign and Home Affairs

Singapore's Second Minister for Foreign and Home Affairs, Sim Ann, has identified improving road safety, tackling drug addiction, and strengthening ties with regional neighbors as her key priorities in the coming years. Sim Ann, who was appointed to these roles in July, also warned that external actors may attempt to influence Singapore's society and turn internal divisions into external threats.

She emphasized the importance of Singapore's multicultural and multiracial identity, as well as its religious harmony, in countering such attempts at influence.

Sim Ann highlighted that road safety laws and regulations would need to be complemented by a change in public attitudes. To achieve this, she plans to launch an intensive public education campaign targeting all road users. Additionally, she will focus on drug addiction, incarceration, and rehabilitation, as well as the Yellow Ribbon initiative, which assists ex-offenders in reintegration into society. These areas are seen as interconnected between the Home Team and other agencies.

On foreign affairs, Sim Ann plans to continue supporting efforts to build Singapore's relationships with Northeast Asia, particularly China, as well as Southeast Asia. This work is particularly significant as Singapore prepares to assume the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) chairmanship in 2027, marking the regional grouping's 60th anniversary.

Sim Ann stressed the importance of being aware of external influence and understanding Singapore's national interests, including its unique multicultural identity, multiracial identity, and religious harmony. She believes that cultivating "cultural competence" and familiarity with Singapore's foreign policy positions will help prevent division and maintain societal harmony.