Singapore
* As some Indicators can be skipped where data is unavailable, the maximum overall and Domain scores are not identical for each country. Country rankings are generated from ratios of the maximum scores and the achieved scores.
The Indicators have been classified by the stage of the influence process at which they occur. Some Indicators correspond to exposure to PRC influence, e.g. the presence of Confucius Institutes. Others test for pressure – such as visa denials to academics or journalists. Finally, some Indicators capture the effect of PRC influence, such as national policy changes in favor of PRC interests.
The individual Layer scores for each country are tallied and displayed via rankings.
Exposure
Exposure assesses the conditions that make the target country vulnerable to PRC's influence, e.g. in terms of economic dependence, or the receiving of some form of benefit.
Pressure
Pressure measures the actions that the PRC directly or indirectly exerts over the target country in order to change the behavior of people in the target country, e.g. in terms of threatening economic punishment to provoke/prevent a political decision.
Effect
Effect evaluates the degree of accommodations the target country makes to the PRC, and the actual effects and impacts on the target country.
In 2021, Singapore had a GDP per capita of US$72,794 and a total population of 5.45 million people and a resident population of 4.04 million people, with the resident Chinese population comprising 3 million people, or 52.7% of the total population. Publicly available official statistics do not list the ethnicity of non-residents on various types of work and short-term visas.
Singapore established diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in 1990. Singapore was ranked 139th in Reporters Without Borders' 2022 World Press Freedom Index, and Partly Free in Freedom House's 2022 Global Freedom Status, with a score of 47/100.
Percentage scores do not suggest some degree out of a “completely influenced” level of 100%. The percentages express the country’s score out of the total achievable amount based on the Indicators for each Domain.
- Media55.0% / 30.1%
- Academia75.0% / 34%
- Economy63.6% / 33.6%
- Society62.5% / 23.6%
- Military54.5% / 23.4%
- Law Enforcement45.5% / 30.2%
- Technology90.9% / 40.8%
- Domestic Politics36.4% / 37.2%
- Foreign Policy52.3% / 41%
Media
The Media Domain evaluates how PRC entities influence public debate and media coverage about the PRC in the Index country.
In my country, there are media organizations that belong to the World Chinese Media (世界华文媒体) network.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
42 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
19 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
13 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore has a controlled media environment. Technically, the Broadcasting Act and the Newspaper and Printing Act prevent foreign ownership or entry into the Singapore media market. Link Link Link
- https://www.imda.gov.sg/regulations-and-licensing/Regulations/Acts-and-Regulations
- https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Act/BA1994
- https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Act/NPPA1974
Supplementary Notes
The main English language broadsheet, the Straits Times, has a media sharing agreement with through the Asian News Network that includes exchange agreements with the China Daily (PRC) and China Post (Taiwan) among others. See next entry.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are journalists or media organizations which are members of the Belt and Road Media Cooperation Alliance/Union, the Belt and Road News Alliance, or other Belt and Road media networks that connected to PRC (e.g. Belt and Road Media Community, Belt and Road Journalists Network, Belt and Road News Network, or B&R TV Networks).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
39 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
23 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
14 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
1 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore cable TV and telecommunications provider, StarHub, is part of the Belt and Road Media Community. Apart from Phoenix TV 鳳凰衛視 (Hong Kong), Dragon TV/Dongfang weishi 東方衛視 (China), and its own pay per view movie and entertainment channels, StarHub's cable service only carries Chinese-language channels that are part of the Belt and Road News Alliance, including TVB (Hong Kong), CGTN/CCTV (China), CTi (Taiwan). Singapore's other main cable TV and telecommunications provider, SingTel, carries Star, which is part of the Belt and Road Media Community
- http://brmc.chnpec.com/en/member.shtml
- https://brnalink.com/members.html
- https://www.starhub.com/personal/tvplus/passes/channel-listing.html
- https://www.singtel.com/personal/products-services/tv/singtel-tv-channels
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are journalists, media organizations or online influencers who have attended all-expenses paid media tours in PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
11 countries chose this answer
0/ No
15 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
15 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
23 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
13 countries chose this answer
71 countries answered this indicator; 11 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Straits Times is Singapore's newspaper of record and closely affiliated with the Singapore state and ruling party, the People's Action Party. Lianhe Zaobao 聯合早報 plays a similar role for readers who prefer Mandarin-language news. The management and editorial for both are closely controlled by the state. Both papers belong to Singapore Press Holdings, whose chairperson is someone close to the People's Action Party, often a former minister.
- https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/inside-those-uighur-re-education-camps
- https://www.theonlinecitizen.com/2019/07/08/st-journalist-finds-it-hard-to-fault-china-for-running-uighur-re-education-camps/
- https://www.zaobao.com.sg/news/china/story20190425-951289
- https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ZQ0P9PGMqwDKBGg1RZyE069NdvgR7rU6eG9rhvIK43Y/edit#gid=1892747668
- https://www.sohu.com/a/463564514_115865
- http://www.chinaxinjiang.cn/zhuanti/2019/002/27/2701/201904/t20190424_576102.htm
- https://www.zaobao.com.sg/forum/zaodian/bei-jing-yi-ye-2/story20190422-950457
- https://youwuqiong.com/junshi/联合早报游润恬：有记者质疑学员在作秀，如真这/
- https://twitter.com/mahbubani_k/status/1188038663860408320?s=21
- https://t.co/lPw9UDLbh0?amp=1
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are journalists, media organizations or online influencers who have received trainings from PRC state-owned media or PRC-connected entities.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
37 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
16 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
14 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
10 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
This Noel Lee person was previously unknown, but has suddenly appeared on YouTube in late March 2021, making videos on China in China. These include denials of Xinjiang human rights abuses. His followers on YouTube suddenly shot up to more than 12.3k. Little is known about him, and his Facebook profile provides little information and nothing about his friends. The way he speaks sounds Singaporean. Many people in Singapore who deny human rights abuses in Xinjiang use his videos, which also seem to be shared on private messaging platforms like WhatsApp and WeChat. His videos seem slick, so he is likely to have received some training. Increasingly, Singapore's media also hires journalists, presenters, and editors from the PRC. They bring with them PRC perspectives on politics. These PRC trained media workers tend to be in Mandarin-language media. Some have significant media prominence, being the hosts or editors of important, regular news shows.
- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4A36huFFXfxfgw5WDL_S-g
- https://www.facebook.com/f14noel
- https://web.archive.org/web/20120928064641/http://tv.groups.yahoo.com/group/helencheung/
- https://www.facebook.com/haijiefans/
- https://www.facebook.com/lvlinxuan/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC state-media (including print, radio, and video) is broadcasted or distributed in a local language.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
24 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
22 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
18 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
10 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore has two main cable TV and telecommunications providers, SingTel and StarHub. StarHub is part of the Belt and Road Media Community. It carries several Chinese-language channels that cover Mandarin, Hokkien, and Cantonese. The Hokkien channel consists largely of Taiwanese 鄉土劇 with no news content. The Cantonese channel is TVB from Hong Kong, which covers mainly entertainment and some Cantonese news. Mandarin channels include StarHub's own entertainment and movie channels as well as the following from the Belt and Road Media Community: CCTV/CGTN (China) (Also Belt and Road Media Alliance) CTi（中天) (Taiwan) (Also Belt ant Road Media Alliance) It also carries the following other Mandarin TV channels: Phoenix TV 鳳凰衛視 (Hong Kong) Dragon TV 東方衛視 (China) TVB (Hong Kong) (Belt and Road Media Alliance) TVBS (Taiwan) (Belt and Road Media Alliance) Other Belt and Road Media Community channels StarHub Carries include: Astro (Malaysia) Star Media Group (Malaysia) Zee (India) National Geographic (USA) SingTel carries several Chinese-language channels, including some from the Belt and Road Media Community and Belt and Road Media Alliance. These include: ONE (Singapore) cHK 香港台 (Hong Kong) Star Chinese Channel 衛視中文台 (Hong Kong/Taiwan) TVB (Hong Kong) (Belt and Road Media Alliance) Oh!K Channel (Singapore/Malaysia) CTV/CGTN (China) (Belt and Road Media Community and Belt and Road Media Alliance) TVBS (Taiwan) (Belt and Road Media Alliance) TVB (Hong Kong) (Belt and Road Media Alliance) CBO 中國電視劇頻道 (Singapore) (Broadcasts of PRC-produced television series) ETTV Asia News 東森新聞 (Taiwan) e-Le Channel (Singapore) Other Belt and Road Media Community Channels: Astro (Malaysia) Zee (India) National Geographic (USA) The above channels cover news and entertainment.
- https://www.singtel.com/personal/products-services/tv/singtel-tv-channels
- https://www.starhub.com/personal/entertainment/get-started/tv-plans/tv-streaming/channels.html
- http://brmc.chnpec.com/en/member.shtml
- https://brnalink.com/members.html
Supplementary Notes
Together SingTel and StarHub capture all of the Singapore cable TV market. This means to say that apart from Singapore-produced content, Singaporean TV viewers largely only have the options provided by these two channels. The dominance of PRC-related channels (including those ostensibly from Taiwan and Hong Kong) providing Chinese-language content means that the majority of Singaporean viewers of Chinese-language content will be exposed to either Singapore (such as MediaCorp Channel 8 or Channel U) or PRC-friendly material.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are local media outlets wholly or partly owned by PRC citizens or corporations.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
44 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
19 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
14 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
0 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore has a controlled media environment. Technically, the Broadcasting Act and the Newspaper and Printing Act prevent foreign ownership or entry into the Singapore media market. Link Link Link
- https://www.imda.gov.sg/regulations-and-licensing/Regulations/Acts-and-Regulations
- https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Act/BA1994
- https://sso.agc.gov.sg/Act/NPPA1974
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/media-platform-offers-eye-on-spore-to-chinese-nationals-here
Supplementary Notes
However, there are informal online media sites that have close links to the PRC. One is jointly run by Koh Chin Yee, who is active in pushing cooperation with the PRC. (See document in drive)
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are media outlets that have delivered cheap or free contents provided by PRC state-fund media.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
22 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
21 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
23 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
7 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The main Singapore English language broadsheet, the Straits Times, is part of the Asia News Network that includes the China Daily and the China Post. China Daily and occasionally China Post/NOWnews articles and opinion will regularly feature in the Straits Times as a result. See, for instance: Link Link Link The Straits Times also uses wire reports from Xinhua. (See link above: Link) The Straits Times has declining readership, but is seen as the official mouthpiece of the ruling People's Action Party and the Singapore state even though it is technically publicly-owned via the Singapore Press Holdings, whose main shareholders include DBS Bank, the National University of Singapore, and Nanyang Technological University. Singapore Press Holdings also owns the other physical newspapers in circulation in Singapore, including the Mandarin Lianhe Zaobao, Lianhe Wanbao, Shin Min Ribao, Malay Berita Harian, and Tamil Tamil Murasu. From the 1980s, senior management and editors of the Straits Times have been individuals closely associated with the Singapore state or People's Action Party. There is an online publication run under Singapore Press Holdings, ThinkChina, that regularly runs pieces by influential persons from the PRC or hold pro-PRC leanings.
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/asia-news-network-celebrates-20th-anniversary-commits-to-bringing-region-closer
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/in-person-meetings-highlight-how-much-asean-and-china-treasure-ties-china-daily
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/two-sessions-will-set-course-that-will-also-help-the-world-china-daily-editorial
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/vaccine-selfishness-will-prolong-pandemic-china-daily
- https://investor.sph.com.sg/main_shareholder.html
- https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_2016-02-29_133820.html
- https://www.thinkchina.sg/about-us
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/china-holds-college-entrance-exam-with-tailored-covid-19-measures-in-place
- https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RR4373z3.html
Supplementary Notes
Xinhua runs reports of reports from Singapore's Lianhe Zaobao (聯合早報) supportive of the PRC's official position, apparently to demonstrate foreign support for the PRC government's statements and claims, including on the denial of human rights abuses in Xinjiang. (See attachments). PRC-made TV series are distributed alongside similar programming from Korea via Singtel, one of the two main cable providers. Link
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are regular PRC state-media or government advertisements inserted within local newspapers, online news websites or social media.
Skip
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
38 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
13 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
15 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
8 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supplementary Notes
The Straits Times will carry free inserts from the China Daily from time to time. This may be due to their affiliation through the Asia News Network. This occurrence is not common, however. As the last time was a year or two ago, I cannot locate the insert to make copies.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are journalists who have had pressure exerted on them by the PRC, including (but not limited to) public denouncement, revocation of journalist ID, denial of visa.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
57 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
24 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Journalist acquaintances report having PRC public security forcibly delete footage, occasionally detaining local camera people for short periods. Hong Kong reporter, Ching Cheong, working for the Straits Times was arrested and detained on state secret charges in China between 2005 and 2008.
- https://www.asiaone.com/print/News/Latest%2BNews/Singapore/Story/A1Story20121109-382353.html
- https://chinadigitaltimes.net/2019/08/wall-street-journal-reporter-expelled-from-china/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are incidents of media outlets censoring views critical of the PRC government.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
4 countries chose this answer
0/ No
51 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
9 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The is no overt censorship of views critical of the PRC in Singapore. However, media often takes a pro-PRC angle in reporting, especially the Chinese-language media. The English-language media can be more critical on occasion.
Supplementary Notes
There was a report by the SCMP that the Lianhe Zaobao took down a report critical of the PRC's wolf warrior diplomacy. According the to the SCMP: Chu’s comments were first reported on July 15 by Lianhe Zaobao, a Chinese-language daily newspaper in Singapore, and were widely picked up by local and foreign media outlets in Hong Kong and Taiwan. But the newspaper deleted the report from its website the next day, after Chu received warnings from a high level that the Chinese foreign ministry was dismayed, according to a journalist at the newspaper. Neither the newspaper nor Chu responded to requests for comment. Link However, subsequent check from Singapore and overseas locations revealed that the report was still available here: Link
- https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3144269/wolf-vs-panda-china-crossroads-over-how-spread-its-global
- https://www.zaobao.com.sg/news/china/story20210715-1169151
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are media personalities (including reporters, journalists or commentators) or celebrities who deny the existence of human rights abuses in the PRC (e.g. a media personality that doubts there are re-education camps for Uyghurs in Xinjiang).
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
44 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
18 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
9 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
5 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Over the years, there have been an increasing number of prominent individuals, often ethnic Chinese males who have been promoting PRC denialism toward Xinjiang and Hong Kong, as well as its position on Taiwan and the United States. Most prominent of these are former foreign minister George Yeo who is closely affiliated with Kerry Logistics and Kishore Mahbubani. The RedAnts.sg site owned by Lianhe Zaobao often has articles that parallel the PRC official line to some degree.
- https://news.sina.cn/gn/2021-06-08/detail-ikqciyzi8344653.d.html?from=wap
- https://www.zaobao.com.sg/keywords/xin-jiang?_wrapper_format=html&page=0
- https://www.zaobao.com.sg/zvideos/news/story20190425-951246
- https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/inside-those-uighur-re-education-camps
- https://mothership.sg/2021/05/george-yeo-xinjiang-genocide/
- http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/asiapacific/2021-04/20/c_139894396.htm
- https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/civilisational-states-like-china-are-less-prone-to-populism
- https://foreignpolicy.com/author/kishore-mahbubani/
- http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/asiapacific/2021-05/17/c_139951981.htm
- https://mothership.sg/2020/05/china-kishore-mahbubani/
- https://www.facebook.com/100000779909212/posts/3962447010457923/?d=n
- https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/george-yeo-to-retire-as-kerry-logistics-networks-chairman-to-spend-time-with-family-and
- https://www.redants.sg
- https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202106/1226255.shtml
- https://mahbubani.net
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1Nrgw37If0
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YpmDmpHHS2s
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OBQJc4X9s6M
- https://asianpeacetalks.buzzsprout.com/1744847/8728195-perceptions-of-china-within-the-us-body-politic-facts-and-misconceptions
- https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/chinas-challenges-as-a-rising-power-george-yeo
- https://www.zaobao.com/news/china/story20210629-1162207
- https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IdrFCworxPZgPcPnuAKi9lP6CtTEcz7t/view
- https://www.thinkchina.sg/former-singapore-fm-george-yeo-ccps-centenary-chinese-revolution-continues
- https://twitter.com/xinjiangchannel/status/1415137474255331332?s=21
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXpY7ySrS2M
- https://news.cgtn.com/news/2021-06-17/Allegation-of-genocide-in-Xinjiang-not-convincing-Singaporean-scholar-11af1lkTmNy/index.html
- https://www.zaobao.com.sg/forum/editorial/story20210615-1156217
- https://twitter.com/sehof/status/1404677931339698177
- http://www.xinhuanet.com/2021-06/11/c_1127556157.htm
- http://www.chinaembassy.org.sg/chn/fyrth/t1872143.htm
- http://www.gov.cn/xinwen/2021-01/21/content_5581643.htm
- http://www.chinaembassy.org.sg/chn/fyrth/t1875255.htm
- http://www.xinhuanet.com/politics/leaders/2021-06/01/c_1127517461.htm
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/guard-critical-thinking-as-us-china-rivalry-heats-up
- https://twitter.com/globaltimesnews/status/1421013669396111364
- https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/opinion/article/3143887/britains-warship-transits-south-china-sea-memories-1949-yangtze
- https://twitter.com/zaobaosg/status/1384031522882154501
- https://mobile.twitter.com/sehof/status/1376799314442297347
- https://www.wethecitizens.net/a-look-at-singapores-mandarin-media-coverage-of-china/
- https://www.zaobao.com.sg/special/report/politic/cnpol/story20190423-950709
Supplementary Notes
Soon after Xi Jinping's call for re-making China's image into one that is "trustworthy, lovable (cute?), and respected" (可信、可愛、可敬) on May 31, 2021, George Yeo and Kishore Mahbubani released a series articles and podcasts (see above) that seem to closely parallel the CCP official line. Link PRC media also use Singapore-based individuals as well as state-affiliated media organizations, like Lianhe Zaobao to boost their own positions overseas. The use friendly reporting to legitimate and demonstrate international support for their claims.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Academia
The Academia Domain measures how the PRC state attempts to restrict academic freedom by influencing or interfering with the Index country’s academic and educational activities.
In my country, universities have established research partnerships with PRC-connected entities. (e.g. Huawei, Tencent or Alibaba)
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
9 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
31 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
25 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore tries to be a research hub, so its universities have significant research collaboration with many entities, among them several state-linked PRC firms.
- https://enterprise.nus.edu.sg/partnering-corporates/tencent-nus-cloud-startup-program/
- https://news.nus.edu.sg/tencent-nus-set-up-incubator-scheme-for-singapore-start-ups/
- https://enterprise.nus.edu.sg/partnering-corporates/corporate-partnerships/
- https://bizbeat.nus.edu.sg/press-release/article/alibaba-cloud-partners-with-national-university-of-singapore-to-support-the-citys-smart-nation-initiative/
- https://news.nus.edu.sg/alibaba-cloud-nus-and-ez-link-collaborate-to-advance-singapores-digital-economy/
- https://www.comp.nus.edu.sg/images/resources/Alibaba_Talent_Programme-Aug2019-rev.pdf
- https://www.alibabacloud.com/blog/alibaba-cloud-partners-with-national-university-of-singapore-to-support-smart-nation-initiative_593921
- https://www.ntu.edu.sg/alibaba-ntu-jri
- https://www.connectedtoindia.com/nus-partners-alibaba-cloud-to-nurture-talents-in-emerging-tech-fields-4456.html
- https://www.ntu.edu.sg/news/detail/ntu-singapore-and-alibaba-group-launch-joint-research-institute-on-artificial-intelligence-technologies/ntu-singapore-and-alibaba-group-launch-joint-research-institute-on-artificial-intelligence-technologies
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/alibaba-group-opens-first-joint-research-institute-outside-china-with-ntu-to-study-ai
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/education/alibaba-launches-post-graduate-talent-programme-in-singapore
- https://e.huawei.com/en/case-studies/leading-new-ict/2018/201812191506
- https://www.ntu.edu.sg/ntc/news-events/news/detail/huawei---chinese-telecommunications-giant-strategies-to-success
- https://www.facebook.com/entresoc.ntu/posts/and-the-huawei-seeds-of-the-future-programme-is-a-successthe-programme-is-organi/870943806275905/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are Confucius Institutes/Classrooms.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
5 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
14 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
31 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
27 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore's efforts to cooperate with PRC in education, including to maintain Chinese-language and culture, saw the establishment of a Confucius Institute and Confucius classroom in the country. This has included efforts to train Chinese-language teachers in Singapore schools or sometimes helping to hire them from the PRC.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country plans to include, or does include, Chinese as a foreign language in K12 or primary education, and receives free or subsidized (e.g. offered below market price) educational books and teachers from PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
46 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
35 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
This is a grey area for Singapore. It has longstanding and broad-based Mandarin teaching. It does not use PRC textbook material or teachers for free, but hires them from the PRC in addition to locally. Some private tuition (enrichment programs) that parents commonly opt for appear to include PRC teachers and content.
- https://www.zhihu.com/question/21730431
- https://www.nie.edu.sg/docs/default-source/news-document/280512-zb-pg-6.pdf?Status=Master&sfvrsn=0
- https://ace.edu.sg/wp/advisory-board/
- http://huayuanassociation.com/zh/category/最新活动/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, one or more think tanks and academic research centers belong to PRC-affiliated networks/associations (such as: the Silk Road Think Tank Association, Silk Road Think Tank Network [SiLKS], Belt and Road Studies Network, University Alliance of the Silk Road, University Consortium of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road).
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
40 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
17 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
14 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The East Asian Institute (EAI) based at the National University of Singapore is part of the SiLKS. A long-serving former directors known to be close to the PRC. EAI is influential as it provides briefs to various Singapore ministries, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Trade and Industry. It also briefs foreign academic and official visitors to Singapore. The former EAI direction was linked to the Longus Institute and International Public Policy Private Limited, two think tanks that used to advance pro-PRC viewpoints and promote visits by PRC academics and officials. Both organizations seems to have closed, especially with the departure of the EAI director from Singapore in 2020.
- https://web.archive.org/web/20210122052445/http://www.esilks.org/about/members
- https://web.archive.org/web/20210128112221/http://www.esilks.org/institut/sid/uxLcS333
- https://research.nus.edu.sg/eai/about-us/profile-and-objectives/
- https://www.sgpbusiness.com/company/International-Public-Policy-Private-Limited
- https://www.facebook.com/longusresearch/
- https://www.sgpbusiness.com/company/Longus-Institute-For-Development-And-Strategy-Ltd
- https://sgpgrid.com/company-details/longus-institute-for-development-and-strategy-ltd
- https://openinghours-sg.com/019724/Longus_Research_Institute
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/longus-institute-for-development-and-strategy/about/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, think tanks and academic research centers have received financial support from PRC-connected individuals or entities.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
10 countries chose this answer
0/ No
21 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
19 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
10 countries chose this answer
72 countries answered this indicator; 10 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore more established think tanks and universities are generally regulated by the state quite tightly as a consequence of historical efforts to clamp on protests and limit academic freedom. As a result, there tends to be higher control of foreign funding going toward think tanks and universities, especially if they come in the form of philanthropic giving. There may be some projects with PRC funding, but these tend to be balanced by funding from other sources. Private think tanks, however, reportedly receive more PRC funding. These included the International Public Policy Private Limited and Longus Institute, which seem to be dormant at present. There is suspicion that the Kuok family of Kerry Logistics/Shangri-La Group provides some funds to the Singapore Institute of International Affairs (SIIA), IISS in Singapore, and Yale-NUS College.
- https://www.yicai.com/news/100130297.html
- http://www.tianshui.com.cn/news/ws/2014110520344870342.html
- http://www.siiaonline.org/our-people/
- https://yaledailynews.com/blog/2021/04/29/petition-demands-removal-of-yale-nus-governing-board-chair-over-ties-to-myanmar-army/
- https://www.thenewslens.com/article/150452
- https://www.kuokgroup.com/businesses/shangri-la
- https://www.kuokgroup.com/businesses
- http://en.iiss.pku.edu.cn/dynamic/dh/subjectEn02/js/gw/2212.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, experts participate in PRC talent recruitment programs such as the Thousand Talents Program or Changjiang Scholars program.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
47 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
10 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
5 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Scholars at Singapore universities participate in the Changjiang Scholars Program (長江學者計畫). These numbers seem to be growing. Reportedly, there have been attempts to recruit through the Thousand Talents Program as well, but no direct evidence is yet available.
- https://bizfaculty.nus.edu.sg/faculty-details/?profId=451
- https://chemistry.nus.edu.sg/people/guillermo-c-bazan/
- http://saton.jmu.edu.cn/info/1013/1600.htm
- https://m.sohu.com/n/447515710/
- http://newsweb.nuaa.edu.cn/2016/0823/c738a30070/pagem.htm
- http://www.nuaa.edu.cn/2010/0630/c852a28293/page.htm
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, scholars have taken trips to the PRC paid for by PRC-connected individuals or entities.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
13 countries chose this answer
0/ No
17 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
15 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
12 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
14 countries chose this answer
69 countries answered this indicator; 13 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There have been regular PRC efforts to sponsor trips by Singapore-based academics to China. These include study trips and tours, as well as high profile events such as the Bo'ao Forum and Xiangshan Forum.
- https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-president-attends-boao-forum/
- https://www.boaoforum.org/u/cms/www2/201804/04103033o6c8.pdf
- http://www.xiangshanforum.cn/scheduling_EN
- https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=2770182006586824
- https://www.sgcssa.org/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, organized PRC-connected student groups, such as Chinese Students and Scholars Associations (CSSAs), are involved in attempts to censor staff or students (e.g. by harassing students protesting human rights abuses in the PRC, or formally complaining about the identification of Taiwan as a country in lecture slides).
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
64 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
5 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
3 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Student organizations in Singapore are tightly controlled by the state, including the CSSA. This limits their activities. There are sporadic reports of CSSA members or PRC students complaining about course content offends PRC sensibilities. However, they have not yet become a force that puts academics and others in a position to be wary and engage in self-censorship. The CSSA in Singapore is known to have links with the PRC Embassy in Singapore, which helps sponsor some of their events.
Supplementary Notes
Even though the role of CSSAs are unclear, Nanyang Technological University (NTU) told their faculty in writing that there was a directive from MOE to not refer to Taiwan and Hong Kong as anything that might be construed as "countries." To the best of my knowledge, we never received anything similar at NUS. I'm not heard of a similar directive at either SMU or SUSS. (See attachment.) At NTU, non-Singapore based scholar was told to remove all references to "Republic of China" from slides in a talk--even though this person is a historian who works on World War II. The scholar was told to use "China" instead. The organizer telling the academic to do so is a PRC scholar based in at NTU. A possible explanation may be the fact that NTU has far closer ties with the PRC, with the flagship training it offers to mayors from the PRC. NUS has a similar program for provincial officials, but it is much smaller. There may be faculty who are more willing to convey their preferences to a university administration more sensitive to such issues even if there is no formal role for a CSSA. Across universities, some faculty have reported PRC students possibly complaining or putting in negative evaluations for emphasis on Taiwan, although this is anecdotal. Possibly because the identities of complainants or evaluations cannot be clearly ascertained. Whether such actions are motivated by the CSSA is unclear, even though the CSSAs have close ties with the PRC embassy. (See attached image)
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, scholars or academics have been denied visas to travel to the PRC after expressing opinions or producing scholarship that is critical of the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
7 countries chose this answer
0/ No
64 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
1 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
6 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
75 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
None known at present.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities have been involved in school or university curriculum design, such as courses about East Asian history, modern politics, etc.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
64 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
16 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are reports of Mandarin-language curriculum material increasingly following PRC standards due to the increasing number of PRC teachers hired by the Ministry of Education to teach Mandarin. There are also a number of PRC-related entities that set up tuition centers (補習班) teaching Mandarin in Singapore.
- https://zhuanlan.zhihu.com/p/134016809
- https://zhidao.baidu.com/question/924235760209131219.html
- https://www.qlchat.com/hot/html/79553866.html
- https://hsk-crestar.com.sg/zh-hans/从中国高考考官到新加坡学院母语部主任，一个新/
- https://www.ecda.gov.sg/Documents/Documents%20Required%20for%20Teacher%20Certification%20(Foreign%20Qualifications_%20Chinese).pdf
- https://finance.sina.com.cn/roll/2019-03-04/doc-ihsxncvf9735757.shtml
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are confirmed reports of teachers or professors avoiding the discussion of sensitive political issues (e.g. Uyghur re-education camps, Taiwan independence, Tiananmen Square Massacre).
Skip
Skipped
5 countries chose this answer
0/ No
65 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
1 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
1 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
6 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
77 countries answered this indicator; 5 countries skipped this indicator
Supplementary Notes
There have been few but increasingly common reports of censorship relating to issues sensitive to the PRC. In one instance in 2020, a US-based historian working on the history of World War II was told to drop references to the "Republic of China" in the title and contents of a talk he was to give at Nanyang Technological University, one of Singapore's main universities. Faculty at Nanyang Technological University received an email circular asking them to ensure that they do not refer to Hong Kong or Taiwan in ways that could be construed as countries. There is email traffic on the issue, but they are not shared out of personal privacy protection concerns.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Economy
The Economy Domain measures the PRC’s economic leverage in the Index country, and how this is used to influence economic policy or corporate behavior in ways that favor the PRC.
The PRC is my country's number one trading partner (for trade in goods only).
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
51 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
31 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Yes, for trade in goods, but not for trade in services. The PRC is also neither the top investor in Singapore, nor the top target for investment even though Singapore is the top foreign investor in the PRC.
- https://www.singstat.gov.sg/modules/infographics/singapore-international-trade
- https://www.singstat.gov.sg/modules/infographics/-/media/Files/visualising_data/infographics/trade_and_investment/singapore-international-trade.pdf
- https://www.singstat.gov.sg/modules/infographics/singapore-direct-investment
- https://www.singstat.gov.sg/modules/infographics/-/media/Files/visualising_data/infographics/trade_and_investment/singapore-direct-investment.pdf
- https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/trade-and-investment/foreign-direct-investment/latest-data
- https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/trade-and-investment/foreign-direct-investment/visualising-data
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
PRC-connected entities own more than 50% of my country’s sovereign debt.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
77 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
4 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
According to official sources, Singapore maintains no net foreign debt. This includes sovereign debt. Details, however, are difficult to independently ascertain.
- https://www.singstat.gov.sg/find-data/search-by-theme/economy/external-debt/latest-data
- https://www.mof.gov.sg/news-publications/media-articles/askST-Why-does-Singapore-have-an-external-debt-of-US1-766-trillion-
- https://www.tablebuilder.singstat.gov.sg/publicfacing/createDataTable.action?refId=14924
- https://www.gov.sg/article/is-it-fiscally-sustainable-for-singapore-to-have-such-a-high-level-of-debt
- https://global.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202009/18/WS5f63ed41a31024ad0ba7a40c.html
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-business-chamber-in-china-key-to-relations-between-the-2-countries-minister-of
- https://www.enterprisesg.gov.sg/overseas-markets/asia-pacific/china/market-profile
Supplementary Notes
Singapore is the largest foreign investor in China and the China market is the largest destination for investments from one of Singapore's two sovereign wealth funds, Temasek Holdings.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
The PRC is the top customer for my country’s extractive industries.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
62 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
20 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore has no extractive industries. It extracts low wage labour, sand, and raw materials from other countries.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-related entities own, operate or substantially control critical infrastructure (e.g. ports, power plants, digital data centers, etc) or sensitive sectors (biotech, raw materials, etc.)
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
36 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
46 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
PRC firms are investing in telecommunications, cloud, and logistics services in Singapore, but are not in key physical infrastructure like ports and airports.
- https://www.straitstimes.com/tech/tech-news/huawei-opens-53-million-regional-centre-in-singapore
- https://www.huawei.com/en/news/2019/2/huawei-cloud-unveil-in-singapore
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/commentary/china-invest-5g-huawei-tencent-network-development-technology-11748338
- https://vulcanpost.com/730233/tencent-holdings-singapore-plans/
- https://www.reuters.com/article/us-tencent-singapore-idUSKBN266097
- https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/technology/tencent-picks-singapore-as-asia-hub-after-india-us-bans
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/business/tencent-singapore-new-office-south-east-asia-13111558
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/commentary/alibaba-investment--3-billion-grab-gojek-jack-ma-singapore-13133668
- https://www.straitstimes.com/business/companies-markets/alibaba-in-talks-to-invest-us3-billion-in-grab
- https://www.scmp.com/tech/e-commerce/article/1835051/chinas-alibaba-expands-global-logistics-reach-upping-investment
- https://www.cnbc.com/2020/09/11/bytedance-to-invest-billions-recruit-hundreds-in-singapore.html
- https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/garage/news/tiktok-owner-bytedance-moving-to-bigger-singapore-office
- https://www.theregister.com/2021/08/25/china_singapore_net_link/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country joined (or applied to join) the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
27 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
55 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore is one of the 21 founding members of the AIIB. Singaporean civil servants have also taken up posts in the AIIB.
- https://www.aiib.org/en/projects/details/2019/approved/Singapore-Infrastructure-Private-Capital-Mobilization-Platform.html
- https://www.todayonline.com/voices/spore-should-be-aiibs-regional-headquarters
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/2-sporeans-in-senior-posts-at-aiib-another-to-join-soon
- https://govinsider.asia/digital-gov/top-singapore-civil-servant-to-join-aiib/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, major businesses are members of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce, or of the Belt and Road Industrial and Commercial Alliance, or of the Belt and Road General Chamber of Commerce.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
41 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
41 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Via Hong Kong Singapore Business Association and Singapore Business Federation. There is also the Singapore Chamber of Commerce in China, to which many Singapore businesses are tied.
- https://www.beltandroadglobalforum.com/en/member/forumfull
- https://www.sbf.org.sg
- https://www.hsba.org.sg/index.php
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-business-chamber-in-china-key-to-relations-between-the-2-countries-minister-of
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has been the target of PRC economic coercion (e.g. trade or investment sanctions) that was specifically tailored at products or services that are highly dependent on the PRC market.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
64 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
18 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-38101345
- https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/sporeans-naive-about-fake-news-threat-beijings-influence-operations-threaten-social
- https://wikileaks.org/plusd/cables/08SINGAPORE71_a.html
- https://www.pmo.gov.sg/Newsroom/prime-minister-lee-hsien-loongs-national-day-rally-2004-english
- https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements-Transcripts-and-Photos/2004/07/Transcript-of-Questions-and-Answers-with-DPM-Lee-Hsien-Loong-on-His-Visit-to-Taiwan
Supplementary Notes
There were other forms coercion, such as threats and the detention of armored vehicles passing through Hong Kong but no direct economic coercion yet. Allegedly, much of the threats were passed to the Singapore state by way of Singapore businesses with interests in the PRC. However, there could be coercion behind the scenes that are less directly observable, given Singapore's opacity.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, local businesses have been harassed, threatened, or boycotted, due to their activities or statements in support of causes deemed unacceptable by the PRC government (e.g. Taiwanese independence, Hong Kong democracy, Tibet or Xinjiang issues, etc).
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
65 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
15 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Reportedly in the wake of the South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal Ruling, Singapore businesses were warned that Singapore's insistence on international law could jeopardize their commercial position in the PRC. Singapore supposedly had a downgraded invitation to the 2017 Belt and Road Forum in the PRC for its position on the South China Sea, inviting Minister of National Development Lawrence Wong instead of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. In 2004, Singapore was supposedly subject to some freeze in contact due to a visit by Lee Hsien Loong to Taiwan before he became Prime Minister. The Straits Times further reports that six Singaporean lawyers, including former Attorney-General VK Rajah, left Essex Court Chambers Duxton (Singapore Practice Group) after its London office was sanctioned by Beijing. The sanctions were in response to a legal opinion critical of PRC policy in Xinjiang written by four partners of the firm in London.
- https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/sporeans-naive-about-fake-news-threat-beijings-influence-operations-threaten-social
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/sporeans-should-be-aware-of-chinas-influence-ops-bilahari
- http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/english/doc/2004-07/12/content_347678.htm
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/chinas-belt-and-road-project-could-pose-challenges-to-spore-minister-lawrence-wong
- https://www.todayonline.com/business/spore-businesses-quizzed-chinese-counterparts-over-their-stand-south-china-sea-issue
- https://www.reuters.com/article/us-asean-china-singapore-analysis-idUSKBN1AO17D
- https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/chinas-s-china-sea-stance-must-be-able-to-withstand-the-spore-test
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/ex-ag-and-five-other-lawyers-all-leave-essex-court-chambers-duxton-to-form-new-practice
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has free-trade agreement(s) with the PRC (either bilateral or as part of regional agreement(s)) that primarily deals with trade in goods or services, including digital goods or services.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
51 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
31 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Yes.
- https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_2018-08-08_152343.html
- https://aric.adb.org/fta/peoples-republic-of-china-singapore-free-trade-agreement
- http://fta.mofcom.gov.cn/topic/ensingapore.shtml
- https://www.mti.gov.sg/Improving-Trade/Free-Trade-Agreements
- https://www.mti.gov.sg/-/media/MTI/improving-trade/FTAs/All-you-need-to-know-about-SG-FTAs-and-DEAs.pdf
- https://www.enterprisesg.gov.sg/non-financial-assistance/for-singapore-companies/free-trade-agreements/ftas/singapore-ftas/csfta
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, central or local governments have relaxed or removed regulatory restrictions, or have established special economic zones (or free trade zones, industrial parks, etc.) to attract investments or economic participation from the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
47 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
35 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Yes.
- https://www.straitstimes.com/business/economy/singapore-china-to-further-boost-economic-cooperation
- https://www.mti.gov.sg/Newsroom/Speeches/2018/10/Keynote-speech-by-Minister-Chan-Chun-Sing-at-the-Singapore-China-BRI-Investment-Forum-2018
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/business/singapore-china-sign-5-deals-to-boost-cooperation-in-economy-11487764
Supplementary Notes
Contact between the Chinese Embassy and the Zhejiang Entrepreneur's association led to an uptick in enthusiasm for Sinovac, despite its low efficacy. Link Link
- https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/health-environment/article/3138309/singaporeans-chinese-nationals-queue-sinovac-vaccine
- https://sg.news.yahoo.com/significant-problems-sinovac-vaccine-other-countries-moh-official-105357031.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities requisitioned infrastructure or land for failure to repay debts in a timely manner.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
76 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
4 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-14/singapore-property-dynasty-s-china-deal-becomes-cautionary-tale
- https://www.thinkchina.sg/singapore-and-suzhou-where-will-journey-lead-us
- https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_2015-02-17_101058.html
Supplementary Notes
Less so PRC firms requisitioning assets, but Singapore firms losing control of assets in China.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Society
The Society Domain measures the extent and effectiveness of the PRC’s efforts to advance its soft power in the Index country, including its influence over the actions and views of local organizations and citizens.
In my country, there are local groups or organizations with words like “Promotion of Peaceful Reunification” in their name, and they regularly publicize their views on Taiwan, Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjiang issues.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
49 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
9 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not in the open, since the civil society space in Singapore is tightly regulated. There may be other organizations with similar aims, but do not carry this official title. These tend to operated more behind the scenes.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are members and member organizations of United World Chinese Association (世界华人协会).
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
62 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
19 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
One of the members of the board of Temasek Holdings, one of Singapore's two sovereign wealth funds, is a member of the CPPCC. SinoLand, owned by the Ng family, reportedly has close ties with the Central Liaison Office in Hong Kong. There are also members of the the China Overseas Friendship Association (中國海外聯誼會).
- https://www.temasek.com.sg/en/who-we-are/our-leadership#bod-robert-ng-cs
- https://www.hk01.com/社會新聞/168808/全國兩會-政協專委會副主任出爐-消息-王冬勝-黃志祥均上榜
- https://www.scmp.com/business/article/2187645/chinas-liaison-office-officials-have-buying-local-flats-drawing-focus-tax
- https://www.ejinsight.com/eji/article/id/2066211/20190225-liaison-office-wants-a-big-piece-of-grand-central
- http://www.singapore-china.org/profile/board19_22.shtml
Supplementary Notes
If so, this is not publicly known, given the tight control over civil society by the Singapore state, particularly regarding organizations with external links.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, labor unions cooperate on exchanges or official visits to the All-China Federation of Trade Unions (ACFTU) in the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
68 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
13 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
The National Trades Union Congress is closely affiliated with Singapore's ruling party, the People's Action Party, which has been in power since 1959. The head of the NTUC is almost always a cabinet minister.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are local reports of personnel linked to the UFWD who make appearances at Chinese diaspora community events and activities (e.g. Lunar New Year events, Dragon Boat festival tournaments, etc).
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
50 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
9 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
7 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Yes, available from social media accounts of local ethnic Chinese organizations. Requires upload of screenshots. Among the ethnic Chinese organizations is one called the Huayuan Association 華源會, whose members seem to be largely new PRC immigrants to Singapore. It's head, property tycoon 王泉成 has been invited to be a special observer at the CPPCC (中央政協). Head of the Tianfu Association 天府會, Du Zhiqiang 杜志強, has been invited to be a special observer at the Sichuan CPPCC (四川政協).
- http://www.xinhuanet.com/world/2018-03/03/c_1122481843.htm
- http://world.people.com.cn/n1/2018/0303/c1002-29845671.html
- http://www.singapore-china.org/about_ssfa.shtml
- http://www.sctyzx.gov.cn/m/tzzx/202011/54266144.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are PRC-connected professional associations that are closely engaged with their counterparts locally, such as All-China Journalists Association (中华全国新闻工作者协会), China Artists Association (中国艺术家协会), China Writers Association (中国作家协会) or All-China Women Federation (全国妇联).
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
33 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
25 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
8 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
8 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
6 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/photographs/record-details/189e3375-1162-11e3-83d5-0050568939ad
- http://www.cccsingapore.org/en/index.php?s=%2Fhome%2Findex%2Fbaodao_neirong%2Fid%2F23.html
- https://www.artist.com.sg/artist-ren-jian-hui/
- https://en.artassociation.asia/master/chenchudian/
- http://www.bjbiennale.com.cn/en/ExhibitionNews/202011/t20201105_514776.html
- http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-11/01/c_138521629.htm
- https://sagg.info/event/solo-exhibition-by-jin-jie/
- http://www.innoworld.com.sg
- https://www.nac.gov.sg/whatwedo/engagement/capabilityDevelopment/professionalDevelopment/careerNArtisticDevelopment/literaryArts/Lu-Xun-Academy-International-Writing-Programme-For-Singapore-Writers.html
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/completed-china-cultural-centre-to-boost-arts-exchange
- http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/world/2010-01/29/content_9398136.htm
- http://en.chinaculture.org/2017-08/17/content_1055836.htm
- http://www.singapore-china.org/profile/selected10.shtml
- http://huayuanassociation.com/zh/
Supplementary Notes
Connections are not just with local individuals and independent groups, but state agencies as well. There are some official collaborative projects. However, the reach of these groups tend to be more specialized so far.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected individuals or entities donate money or provide other types of support to religious communities and charities.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
46 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
35 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Yes, often through temple lineages and associations, including the Meizhou Mazu temple (湄洲媽祖廟) network. These have links with Malaysia and Taiwan as well--including groups in Taiwan identified as being closely tied to the CCP or local agents of the PRC.
- http://huayuanassociation.com/zh/category/最新活动/
- https://jamestown.org/program/a-preliminary-survey-of-ccp-influence-operations-in-singapore/
- https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/research_reports/RRA200/RRA290-1/RAND_RRA290-1.pdf
Supplementary Notes
Please allow uploading of images from social media posts.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the PRC government or PRC-connected entities distribute entertainment products (including: drama and TV shows) or related hardwares (e.g. OTT streaming players hosting PRC media channels) freely or at a cheap price.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
38 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
21 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
11 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
6 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Streaming devices are available relatively cheaply in Singapore, making any PRC distribution less competitive. There are anecdotal reports of the distribution of cheap OTT devices streaming PRC programmes, but they have to compete with other devices. The popularity of devices distributed by PRC-related entities is difficult to track.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Cultural products (such as films and TV shows) produced by my country’s production studios typically portray the PRC in a positive light.
Skip
Skipped
7 countries chose this answer
0/ No
60 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
15 countries chose this answer
75 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supplementary Notes
Portrayal of the PRC in a positive light and Hong Kong and Taiwan in a negative light may also have to do with the discouragement of more democratic expectations among the local population. These tend to be TV or radio shows, they do not all have links that can be reproduced.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, celebrities regularly publish or share propaganda narratives from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
10 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
3 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Entertainment in Singapore is generally separate from politics due to social control by the state. There may be sporadic sharing of pro-PRC positions or non-opposition to being labelled similarly to a PRC citizen (see JJ Lin above), but this tends not to be publicly evident.
Supplementary Notes
If entertainers demonstrate open political support for any group, this is usually the ruling People's Action Party. Apart from a few individuals (eg. JJ Lin, Stephanie Sun, Tanya Chua etc), Singapore also tends to have few major celebrities.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the national or local governments regularly publish or share propaganda narratives from the PRC (e.g. statements from the PRC government or embassies).
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
54 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
7 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
5 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
Singapore only has one level of government, broadly speaking. However, it is significant that national-level political figures occasionally will play up the PRC line.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, a majority of citizens have positive views of the PRC government.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
7 countries chose this answer
0/ No
50 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
25 countries chose this answer
75 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Views of the PRC are mixed in Singapore, but there is a general view of the PRC as holding great commercial opportunity and technological prowess even if quite a sizable number of people (likely a minority, however) are suspicious of the PRC's intentions. Seen from a recent Pew poll, a majority of people from Singapore seem to hold positive views of the PRC. Some of this may be due to the media content they receive, given that Singapore mainstream media is quite positive of the PRC and there is quite a bit of pro-China programming from the PRC, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. Some people in Singapore are drawn to the PRC as a site for "Asian values." Non-commercial elite/expert views tend to be more suspicious towards the PRC (see the expert poll from the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies above).
- https://www.iseas.edu.sg/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/The-State-of-SEA-2021-v2.pdf
- https://www.iseas.edu.sg/articles-commentaries/aseanfocus/the-state-of-southeast-asia-2020-survey-report/
- https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2021/06/30/chinas-international-image-remains-broadly-negative-as-views-of-the-u-s-rebound/
Supplementary Notes
There is also some conflation between the PRC state and immigrants from the PRC. There is some resistance to PRC immigrants, but that does not equate to views of the commercial promise of the PRC state.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Military
The Military Domain gauges the bilateral military relationship between the PRC and the Index country, including PRC efforts to influence local military personnel.
My country currently imports (or receives in-kind donation of) military or law-enforcement equipment or components of equipment from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
36 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
46 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Major military and law enforcement equipment is predominantly sourced from the United States, Europe, United Kingdom, Israel, or self-made. There is some Russian equipment, but no known PRC equipment so far.
Supplementary Notes
Maintaining access to advanced US and NATO-standard technologies places limits on equipment purchases from the PRC, given security concerns.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country currently exports military or law-enforcement equipment or components of equipment to the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
74 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
7 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore Technologies Kinetics (STK) had a subsidiary, Guizhou Jonyang Kinetics (GJK), that produced a tracked personnel carrier based on STK's Bronco. STK sold GJK in 2016, but production and development of the vehicle continues. The vehicle recently saw service in Tibet and in support of PLA troops deployed in the Himalayas.
- http://www.military-today.com/trucks/jonyang_jy813.htm
- https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3118339/chinas-military-uses-new-all-terrain-vehicle-get-supplies
- https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/china/jm-8.htm
- https://twgreatdaily.com/zh-cn/_T1eCnEBnkjnB-0zVfqa.html
- https://www.bdapartners.com/transaction/bda-advises-st-kinetics-on-sale-of-its-60-stake-in-guizhou-jonyang-kinetics-to-gicam/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzwQw9ses4Y
- https://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_news_january_2021_global_security_army_industry/chinese_army_commissions_jonyang_jy813_new_all-terrain_vehicle_for_high-altitude_logistics_support.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country co-develops or co-produces military or law-enforcement equipment with the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
66 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
15 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore Technologies Kinetics previously was in a joint venture with Guizhou Zonyang Kintetics. This collaboration allegedly produced a Bv206 style tracked all-terrain tracked transporter, similar to the Bronco used by the Singapore armed forces. Singapore Kinetics reportedly sold its stake in Guizhou Zonyang Kinetics in 2016. It is unclear if other collaboration continues. The vehicle is reportedly in use on the Tibetan plateau. The latest report on co-development is from the SCMP in January 2021.
- https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/china/jm-8.htm
- https://www.cccme.cn/shop/cccme12302/introduction.aspx
- https://www.bdapartners.com/transaction/bda-advises-st-kinetics-on-sale-of-its-60-stake-in-guizhou-jonyang-kinetics-to-gicam/
- https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3118339/chinas-military-uses-new-all-terrain-vehicle-get-supplies
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports that the PRC has expressed intentions or has taken actions to establish basing.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
13 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are reports of PRC interest in basing. There is little independent corroboration, however.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has participated in a humanitarian relief/disaster assistance (HADR) effort.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
61 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
19 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, People’s Liberation Army (PLA) military personnel are permanently or rotationally deployed (excluding defense attaches and peacekeepers).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
77 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
5 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, members of the military have received professional military education from the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
48 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
34 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
A Singapore Ministry of Defence press release from October 20, 2019 reports the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Academic Exchanges between SAFTI-MI and the PLA Academy of Military Sciences.
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-china-sign-ng-eng-hen--defence-agreement-scale-up-army-12018308
- https://thediplomat.com/2019/10/why-the-new-china-singapore-defense-agreement-matters/
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/singapore-china-ministers-ink-upgraded-defence-pact
- https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/diplomacy/article/3033756/singapore-and-china-sign-agreement-boost-defence-cooperation
- https://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/MINDEF_20191020001.pdf
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, members of the military have received peacekeeping training from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
13 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No
Supplementary Notes
Unsure about training kept in the quiet.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, high-ranking retired or current military and/or intelligence officers have received direct or deferred benefits from PRC-connected individuals or entities openly or covertly (e.g. have been appointed to lucrative positions as board members or consultants with PRC-invested firms, casinos, energy companies, etc.) during or in retirement from public service.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
4 countries chose this answer
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
11 countries chose this answer
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/george-yeo-to-retire-as-kerry-logistics-networks-chairman
- https://www.thenewslens.com/article/150452
- https://www.yicai.com/news/100130297.html
- https://www.thenewslens.com/article/150452
Supplementary Notes
There are unverified reports of retired senior Singapore Armed Forces personnel working in China, including at Chinese firms. The nature of what they do is unclear. However, there is the prominent case of George Yeo, former Brigadier General and former Foreign Minister, joining the senior management of the Kerry Group. The Kerry Group reportedly has close ties with the CCP and its chairperson is a CPPCC member. Yeo's public writings have taken a clear pro-PRC turn.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, high-ranking retired or current military and/or intelligence officials advocate for more coordination with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
68 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
13 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No
Supplementary Notes
Not openly.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country cooperates with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on military exchange exercises, including drills and war games.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
51 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
31 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Singapore Armed Forces conducts periodic military exercises with the PLA.
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/larger-scale-military-exercises-in-store-as-singapore-and-china-upgrade-defence-pact
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/saf-and-pla-jointly-conduct-counter-terrorist-urban-raid-to-wrap-up-10-day-exercise
- https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202102/1216628.shtml
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-china-peoples-liberation-army-military-exercise-11758952
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-china-sign-ng-eng-hen--defence-agreement-scale-up-army-12018308
- https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3122895/china-and-singapore-start-joint-naval-drills-beijing-boosts
- https://www.newsweek.com/singapore-holds-naval-drill-china-us-remains-top-security-partner-1571940
- https://mothership.sg/2020/04/singapore-mindef-covid-19-china-pla/
Supplementary Notes
Joint exercises seem to be increasing in frequency, size, and sophistication over the years.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Law Enforcement
The Law Enforcement Domain measures law enforcement cooperation between the PRC and the Index country, as well as the nature and extent of PRC-related criminal activity in the Index country.
My country currently maintains an extradition treaty, legal mutual assistance or other similar arrangements with the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
32 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
50 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.scmp.com/news/china/policies-politics/article/1791773/china-repatriates-no-2-sky-net-fugitive-official-who
- https://www.oecd.org/site/adboecdanti-corruptioninitiative/39788692.pdf
- https://sso.agc.gov.sg/SL/EA1968-N1?DocDate=20000131
- https://www.oecd.org/site/adboecdanti-corruptioninitiative/39355524.pdf
- https://www.oecd.org/site/adboecdanti-corruptioninitiative/39788741.pdf
- https://www.oecd.org/site/adboecdanti-corruptioninitiative/39368700.pdf
Supplementary Notes
There are no formal extradition arrangements between Singapore and the PRC. However, there was at least one past case of individuals sent back to the PRC on the request of Beijing. Singapore has an extradition agreement with Hong Kong, however.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, law enforcement authorities have signed cooperation agreements with the PRC on combatting terrorism.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
55 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
26 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
There is no publicly available information on counter-terrorism cooperation through law enforcement. Counter-terrorism cooperation occurs through the Singapore Armed Forces and the People's Liberation Army.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected gangs (such as Triad, 三合会) are known to be operating in my country.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
52 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
29 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/22/world/winson-north-korea-oil-tankers.html
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDTCHdcPYTQ
- https://www.nytimes.com/video/world/asia/100000007422226/north-korea-winson-oil-tanker.html
- https://www.maritime-executive.com/article/u-s-moves-to-seize-tanker-used-in-illicit-north-korean-trade
- https://www.gtreview.com/news/asia/singapore-oil-trader-denies-alleged-role-in-sanctioned-north-korean-trade/
Supplementary Notes
Little information is available publicly about secret societies and criminal gangs in Singapore. There are, however, periodic reports about the collusion of Singapore firms with illegal activities relating to the PRC. They include the illegal sale of oil and other products to the DPRK, via China and Taiwan, in contravention of UN embargoes.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports of economic espionage targeting the private sector that were suspected to benefit PRC-connected entities.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
49 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
12 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
9 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
See incidents below.
- https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/chinese-citizen-convicted-economic-espionage-theft-trade-secrets-and-conspiracy
- https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-china-spy-singapore/singapore-spy-case-reawakens-fears-china-recruiting-on-island-state-idUSKCN24T0ZV
- https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3137332/singapore-academic-dickson-yeo-who-spied-us-china-detained
- https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2021/06/15/singaporean-dickson-yeo-who-spied-for-china-continues-to-be-held-under-isa
- https://www.singaporelawwatch.sg/Headlines/isd-detains-sporean-dickson-yeo-who-spied-for-china-for-acting-as-paid-agent-of-foreign-state
- https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/singaporean-dickson-yeo-who-spied-china-us-tried-gather-info-singapore-foreign-handlers
- https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/singaporean-national-pleads-guilty-acting-united-states-illegal-agent-chinese-intelligence
- https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/singaporean-national-sentenced-14-months-prison-acting-united-states-illegal-agent-chinese
- https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/ministry-home-affairs-full-statement-huang-jing
- https://www.todayonline.com/world/huang-jing-chinese-american-academic-expelled-singapore-working-beijing-and-has-no-hard
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/lky-school-professor-huang-jing-banned-has-pr-cancelled-for-being-agent-of-influence-for
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports of cyber attacks targeting government, critical infrastructure, or enterprises that were suspected to be initiated from the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
37 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
14 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
15 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
See below.
- https://www.zdnet.com/article/hacker-group-behind-singhealth-data-breach-identified-targeted-mainly-singapore-firms/
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singhealth-hack-whitefly-cyber-espionage-group-symantec-11317330
- https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/mindef-internet-system-hacked-personal-data-850-personnel-stolen
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/healthcare-training-provider-hmi-institutes-server-infected-by-ransomware
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singtel-assessing-hack-data-breach-third-party-file-system-14168814
- https://www.channelasia.tech/article/686732/singapore-airlines-warns-frequent-flyer-members-third-party-data-breach/
- https://www.zdnet.com/article/singapore-airlines-customer-logs-into-account-sees-strangers-personal-data/
- https://mustsharenews.com/data-breaches-singapore/
- https://www.ft.com/content/4443da60-6d90-4d27-b300-b0896425f99f
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/more-than-1500-singpass-accounts-could-have-been-accessed-illegitimately-ida
- https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-44900507
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-investor-watchdog-sias-uncovers-personal-data-breach-10562884
- https://www.straitstimes.com/tech/tech-news/nearly-400-servers-here-at-risk-from-global-microsoft-hack
- https://www.channelasia.tech/article/659206/singapore-government-credentials-found-dark-web/
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/technology/login-details-of-singapore-government-email-accounts-found-in-11366204
- https://www.zdnet.com/article/axa-insurance-data-breach-hits-5400-customers-in-singapore/
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/thomasbrewster/2021/06/10/are-the-fbis-most-wanted-chinese-spies-hacking-the-airline-industry/?sh=6fd61def237d
Supplementary Notes
Contacts in the tech and security industry report regular probes of Singapore cybersystems by suspected PRC-backed entities. There has been no smoking gun or official assigning of culpability by the Singapore state, however.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, triads are known to have threatened or used violence to coerce, intimidate or punish Chinese dissidents.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
3 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
2 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
There have been no reports of triad pressure activities linked to the PRC, but William Nguyen reported on facebook that Chinese embassy officials tried to find out more about him after his arrest in Vietnam for protesting Chinese influence.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has deployed video or internet surveillance systems from the PRC for law enforcement.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
30 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
51 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Hikvision cameras observed at Changi Airport.
- https://titan-sg.com/
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/new-technology-to-help-police-fight-crime-and-enforce-law
- https://sg.news.yahoo.com/90000-police-cameras-installed-singapore-shanmugam-102536548.html
Supplementary Notes
Seems like there is some licensing by the Singapore Police Force for digital surveillance products and admiration for the PRC system by the Home Affairs Minister.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, representatives of the PRC police force have had joint patrols with local law enforcement.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
71 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
11 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No
Supplementary Notes
No known instance.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has detained people at the request of the PRC for committing a crime involving engagements with social movements or resistance activities in Hong Kong, Xinjiang or for other human rights or civic rights issues.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
68 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
13 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No
Supplementary Notes
No known instance, although Singapore may warn citizens privately.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has deported Taiwan citizens to the PRC to face prosecution.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
71 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
9 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No
Supplementary Notes
No known instance yet.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has extradited or has deported individuals to the PRC, although such decisions had attracted criticisms from politicians, government employees or from local or foreign NGOs.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
61 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
21 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There have been repatriations, but opposition was muted given the tight control of civil society in Singapore. The bus drivers repatriated for an "illegal strike" over wages and conditions saw limited local civil society opposition criticism over their repatriation. The point of contention was over the justness and fairness of such as move. During the Cold War, the Singapore state had a history of deporting ethnic Chinese it deemed "leftist" to the PRC. This was the source of some controversy, as some had claim to be Singapore citizens. This was a time after independence when there was campaigning for ethnic Chinese residents of Singapore to be considered citizens. Their status was ambiguous from the colonial period on. (See Link) Others left on their own accord, given affinity to the Communist regime. The most prominent of these returnees being tycoon Tan Kah Kee 陳嘉庚. (Link)
- https://www.todayonline.com/chinaindia/china/ex-chinese-govt-official-who-fled-singapore-sentenced-life-imprisonment
- https://www.scmp.com/news/china/policies-politics/article/1791773/china-repatriates-no-2-sky-net-fugitive-official-who
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/all-29-ex-smrt-bus-drivers-from-china-repatriated-on-dec-2
- https://www.jstor.org/stable/43863101
- https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_163_2005-01-22.html
- https://www.tkkfoundation.org.sg/biography
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Technology
The Technology Domain gauges the PRC’s influence over the technology sector in the Index country, including the activity and financial leverage of PRC companies, use of PRC hardware, and bilateral research partnerships.
In my country, PRC-connected entities (such as China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom) or their subsidiaries provide telecom services.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
52 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
30 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Pre-paid SIM services for individuals and VOIP services largely targeting commercial users.
- https://www.cloudexpoasia.com/exhibitors/china-telecom-singapore-pte-ltd
- https://www.cmlink.com/sg/
- https://blog.moneysmart.sg/budgeting/sim-only-plans-china-mobile-singapore-cmlink/
- https://sgpgrid.com/company-details/china-unicom-singapore-operations-pte-ltd
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, telecoms have signed agreements to adopt hardwares or technical specifications of 4G or 5G cellular networks that are produced or developed by Huawei, ZTE or other PRC enterprises.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
16 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
27 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
30 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Huawei and ZTE not in core infrastructure, but there are apparent apparent plans to include them in other parts of Singapore's future 5G and 6G telecommunications infrastructure based on news reports. TechHQ report linked above writes, "Huawei only won a contract to provide technology for a smaller, local network system to TPG Telecom, a smaller player in Singapore."
- https://www.cnbc.com/2020/06/25/huawei-loses-out-to-nokia-ericsson-in-building-singapores-main-5g-networks.html
- https://www.zdnet.com/article/singtel-makes-massive-mimo-move-with-ericsson-huawei-zte/
- https://www.reuters.com/article/singapore-telecoms-5g-idUKL4N2E12M5
- https://www.zte.com.cn/global/topics/mwc2018/newsdetail.aspx-id=119748641.html
- https://techhq.com/2020/06/ericsson-nokia-oust-huawei-to-win-5g-contracts-in-singapore/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, telecoms have adopted hardware or technical specifications by PRC-connected entities in internet/wifi/telecommunication service infrastructure projects, in addition to 4G/5G cellular network.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
8 countries chose this answer
0/ No
14 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
10 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
24 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
23 countries chose this answer
74 countries answered this indicator; 8 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore's smart nation initiative makes extensive use of surveillance and cloud computing, including storage. Some providers of these key technologies are PRC firms.
- https://govinsider.asia/connected-gov/huawei-ai-lab-nicolas-ma-5g-singapore-china/
- https://www.imda.gov.sg/-/media/Imda/Files/Regulation-Licensing-and-Consultations/Consultations/Consultation-Papers/Second-Public-Consultation-on-5G-Mobile-Services-and-Networks/Second-5G-Consultation-Huawei-International-Pte-Ltd.pdf?la=en
- https://en.prnasia.com/releases/apac/huawei-launches-intelligent-computing-business-and-announces-talent-plan-to-support-singapore-s-smart-nation-2025-strategy-243958.shtml
- https://www.huawei.com/en/news/2017/7/Huawei-Singapore-strategic-partnerships
- https://www.imda.gov.sg/-/media/Imda/Files/Regulation-Licensing-and-Consultations/Consultations/Consultation-Papers/Second-Public-Consultation-on-5G-Mobile-Services-and-Networks/Second-5G-Consultation-ZTE-Singapore-Pte-Ltd.pdf
- https://www.zte.com.cn/global/about/news/350429.html
- https://www.alibabacloud.com/campaign/smart-nation
- https://alibaba-cloud.medium.com/alibaba-cloud-partners-with-national-university-of-singapore-to-support-smart-nation-initiative-8d15a38092cf
- http://global.gsafety.com/list/post/34251/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities are authorized vendors to supply tech-related equipment or services to our government, military or security services.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
28 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
53 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
PRC firms are suppliers to the Singapore state on a number for a number of technologies.
- http://global.gsafety.com/list/post/34251/
- https://ssia.org.sg/huawei-launches-singapores-first-5g-powered-artificial-intelligence-ai-lab/
- https://consumer.huawei.com/sg/press/news/2021/news-210409/
- https://www.scmp.com/tech/policy/article/3016138/singapore-keeps-options-open-huawei-says-any-5g-vendor-must-meet
- https://www.mti.gov.sg/Newsroom/Speeches/2019/05/Speech-by-SMS-Chee-Hong-Tat-at-the-Alibaba-Cloud-Summit
- https://www.straitstimes.com/business/banking/stymied-at-home-jack-mas-ant-builds-government-relations-team-for-asia-push
- https://www.gebiz.gov.sg/ptn/opportunity/opportunityDetails.xhtml
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, central or local governments have collaboration (such as data collection or exchange agreement, or adoption of related hardwares) with the PRC government or PRC-connected entities on facial, voice recognition or other applications involving biometrics achieved by AI.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
42 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
19 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
7 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There seems to be some cooperation, from sporadic news reporting. However, this seems to be tied to key data systems in Singapore. Hikvision facial recognition devices used at Singapore Changi Airport (see attachments).
- https://opengovasia.com/singapore-and-nanjing-deepen-collaboration-on-ai-and-sustainable-urban-solutions/
- https://opengovasia.com/singapore-and-nanjing-deepen-collaboration-on-ai-and-sustainable-urban-solutions/
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-chongqing-deepen-cooperation-with-chinas-first-dedicated-international-data-link
- http://global.gsafety.com/list/post/34251/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, one or more cities have procured, or have signed contracts with PRC-connected entities to establish “smart city” systems.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
35 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
13 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
25 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Smart Cities agreements with the PRC link to Singapore.
- https://www.imda.gov.sg/news-and-events/Media-Room/Media-Releases/2020/Singapore-China-Shenzhen-Smart-City-Initiative-Creates-New-Business-Opportunities-Through-Digital-Connectivity
- https://opengovasia.com/singapore-china-smart-city-initiative-agree-to-accelerate-and-further-digitalisation/
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-china-jcbc-meeting-chongqing-heng-swee-keat-12002940
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, financial institutions use the China Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) clearing and settlement services system.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
63 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
18 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore-based banks use CIPS by virtue of the fact that Singapore ins one of the overseas RMB clearing houses.
- https://www.theglobaltreasurer.com/2015/10/12/icbc-singapore-clears-first-asia-rmb-transaction-on-cips/
- https://www.thecorporatetreasurer.com/article/chongqing-launches-rmb-programme-with-singapore-swift-and-cips-to-cooperate-on-c/406950
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected venture capital invests in technology start-ups.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
32 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
18 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
8 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
12 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
11 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
In recent years, PRC-based venture capital is taking on an increasingly visible role in Singapore. They invest in many areas, including technology.
- https://www.rikvin.com/blog/top-22-venture-capital-firms-and-angel-investors-in-singapore/
- https://www.drwealth.com/venture-capital-singapore/
- https://www.techinasia.com/directory-of-early-stage-venture-capital-seed-funds-and-angel-investors-for-startups-in-singapore
- https://www.questventures.com
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, companies have publicly announced that they had signed MOUs to collaborate on technological development (such as collaborations in A.I., Blockchain, Cloud Computing, Big Data) with PRC-connected entities.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
31 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
19 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
8 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
12 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
9 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
These are areas that the current Singapore government identifies as important to the country's next stage of growth and is eager to partner with PRC firms. They are encouraging firms and universities to do likewise.
- https://www.enterprisesg.gov.sg/-/media/esg/files/media-centre/media-releases/2020/dec-2020/media-release--new-blockchain-for-trade--connectivity-network-to-be-launched.pdf?la=en
- https://www.ledgerinsights.com/singapore-trade-network-to-integrate-with-chinas-blockchain-service-network-others/
- https://www.finews.asia/finance/32210-tencent-cloud-inks-mou-with-digital-bank-consortium-in-singapore-asia-digital-bank-corporation
- https://www.fintechfutures.com/2020/07/singapores-adbc-signs-mou-with-tencent-cloud/
- https://kr-asia.com/alibaba-cloud-signs-mou-with-national-university-of-singapore
- https://www.finextra.com/pressarticle/83258/new-singapore-bank-adbc-inks-mou-with-tencent-cloud
- https://opengovasia.com/new-agreement-between-singapore-and-china-focusing-on-research-and-innovation-efforts/
- https://www.imda.gov.sg/news-and-events/Media-Room/Media-Releases/2019/Launch-of-China-Singapore-Chongqing-International-Data-Channel
- https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/starhub-signs-mou-to-co-build-data-links-with-top-china-service-providers
- https://www.ichongqing.info/2019/10/19/chongqing-and-singapore-sign-a-mou-for-internet-data-channel/
- https://www.singtel.com/about-us/media-centre/news-releases/singtel-partners-chinese-telcos-to-establish-data-link-betwen-singapore-and-c
- https://www.enterprisesg.gov.sg/media-centre/media-releases/2019/september/singapore-chongqing-economic-and-trade-cooperation-forum-and-mou-signing-ceremony
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/technology/chinese-ai-unicorn-sensetime-signs-mou-with-3-singapore-10484136
- https://opengovasia.com/ai-singapore-signs-mou-to-promote-training-and-rd-in-ai-and-analytics/
- https://www.thedrum.com/news/2018/02/28/alibaba-partners-ntu-singapore-establish-its-first-ai-research-institute-outside
- https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/technology/alibaba-cloud-partners-nus-ez-link-to-boost-data-capabilities-amended
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities are shareholders or developers of the top five popular social media/messaging apps, based on usage.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
44 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
36 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
WeChat is popular among older Chinese-speaking adults. TikTok is popular among the younger demographic. Both have high penetration rates. Zoom is widely used in Singapore, following the pandemic.
- https://academy.smu.edu.sg/engaging-one-billion-chinese-consumers-through-wechat-ecosystem-5361
- https://wise.com/sg/blog/alipay-wechat-pay-singapore
- https://42matters.com/singapore-app-market-statistics
- https://insight.rakuten.com/snapshot-of-tiktokdouyin-usage-in-singapore-and-china/
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/more-tiktok-users-in-spore-amid-covid-19
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/commentary/zoom-competition-video-conferencing-hangouts-teams-webex-12770100
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, the central or local government(s) has collaborated with the PRC on endorsing the use of BeiDou satellite navigation system.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
64 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
17 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Singapore state has a number of cooperative projects involving the Beidou system. The exact nature and extent of such collaboration is unknown, however, given Singapore's opacity.
- http://www.spacetime-tech.com/singapore-and-china-collaborate-beidou-applications
- https://www.gnss.asia/sites/default/files/Countryprofiles_Singapore_v4.pdf
- https://www.gpsworld.com/singapore-joins-with-china-to-develop-apps-protect-beidou-signals/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Domestic Politics
The Domestic Politics Domain evaluates PRC efforts to influence the political landscape in the Index country, and the footprint of PRC security companies.
In my country, politicians or government employees at the sub-national level are signing agreements with the PRC government or state-owned enterprises.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
20 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
5 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
23 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
21 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Local politicians in Singapore have no authority to sign agreements with foreign entities.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, local municipalities have sister-city ties (友好城市) with municipalities in the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
10 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
10 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
19 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
19 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
23 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Local municipalities in Singapore do not have the legal leeway to make such arrangements.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have taken trips to the PRC paid for by PRC-connected individuals or entities.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
9 countries chose this answer
0/ No
22 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
12 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
16 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
16 countries chose this answer
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Trips are few but significant because Singaporean officials’ comments are used to broadcast support for the PRC’s positions both domestically and internationally.
- https://amp.economist.com/china/2021/08/07/chinas-efforts-to-lift-xinjiangs-economy-may-smother-it?__twitter_impression=true
- https://web.archive.org/web/20200101010000/http://wap.xjdaily.com/xjrb/20210629/177030.html
Supplementary Notes
Not to my knowledge when it comes to political appointees in the executive branch. Singapore tends to be quite strict regarding political office holders. However, what ruling party backbenchers do is less known, do to the opacity of Singapore's political system. Some backbenchers apparently travel to China for work, since legislators are part-time in Singapore. Some of these trips may be paid for by their companies or China-based business partners. It remains to be seen whether any of such contact becomes salient, however.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees visit the PRC and have meetings with PRC officials and think tanks.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
1 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
9 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
14 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
25 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
32 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Official meetings are the usual course of doing business. That said, there are many meetings and exchanges between political appointees from Singapore, PRC officials, and think tanks. These meetings result in statements and also cooperative agreements. Since at least the 2000s the ruling People's Action Party Youth Wing has had meetings and trainings with the Communist Youth League according to WikiLeaks.
- https://www.mindef.gov.sg/web/portal/mindef/news-and-events/latest-releases/article-detail/2019/October/22oct19_nr
- https://www.istana.gov.sg/Newsroom/Speeches/2021/04/20/Speech-by-President-Halimah-Yacob-at-Boao-Forum-for-Asia-Annual-Conference-2021-Opening-Plenary
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-china-travel-border-restriction-vivian-balakrishnan-14532426
- https://www.mnd.gov.sg/newsroom/press-releases/view/minister-lawrence-wong-visits-china-for-tianjin-eco-city-anniversary-commemorative-activities-and-singapore-tianjin-economic-and-trade-council-meeting
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/vivian-balakrishnan-in-china-for-asean-china-meeting
- https://wikileaks.org/plusd/cables/09SINGAPORE863_a.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, law enforcement and judicial related training offered the PRC-connected individuals or entities has been accepted by national or subnational governments.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
46 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
16 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
6 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The Singapore Police Force has longstanding cooperation with the Hong Kong Police Force, including after the handover to the PRC. This cooperation includes some training of each other's officers.
- https://www.police.gov.sg/media-room/news/20150714_memo_hong_kong_others
- https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/201507/14/P201507140963.htm
- https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwjvrq3T_pHxAhUDcCsKHdNEAT8QFjADegQIBBAE&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.police.gov.sg%2F~%2Fmedia%2Fspf%2Ffiles%2Fstatistics%2Fstro-statistics---international-cooperation-new.pdf&usg=AOvVaw1ZZl3uilejFKgLHsDMUDFC
- https://www.police.gov.sg/html/spf/annual/content/Singapore_Police_Force_Annual_2015.pdf
- https://www.police.gov.hk/offbeat/1076/eng/4714.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports of politicians or political parties receiving campaign donations that originate in the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
4 countries chose this answer
0/ No
60 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
10 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
4 countries chose this answer
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Foreign donations for political parties and politicians in Singapore are tightly regulated. However, political donations are not public knowledge even if they have be reported to the state.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, groups with reported links to the United Front Work Department (UFWD) have hosted fundraisings or have provided other forms of support for government employees, politicians or parties.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
64 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
1 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
10 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
1 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There have been several business associations, native place associations (同鄉會), and clan associations (宗親會) with UFWD links that seem to be developing relationships with politicians from the People's Action Party (PAP). They have in the past posted photos on their social media sites. These organizations or their leaders are reportedly active in the PAP grassroots, which means that they are likely to have some involvement in fund-raising.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, groups with reported links to the United Front Work Department (UFWD) have made public statements opposing the candidacy of a local political candidate or party, claiming them being “anti-China”.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
78 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
1 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
0 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Foreign involvement in Singapore politics is frowned upon. As a result, groups are likely to be less open about endorsement or opposition to candidates based on an overtly foreign policy related issue. Lobbying may well take place in private, out the view of observers.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have publicly expressed positive views of the PRC government.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
12 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
13 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
37 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/new-technology-to-help-police-fight-crime-and-enforce-law
- https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/singapore-should-learn-chinas-advanced-e-payment-systems-pm-lee
- https://www.zaobao.com/news/china/story20210629-1162207
- https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IdrFCworxPZgPcPnuAKi9lP6CtTEcz7t/view
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/chinese-communist-party-100th-anniversary-pm-lee-xi-jinping-15124152
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/pap-ccp-ties-have-greatly-benefited-people-of-spore-china-lee-hsien-loong
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/ccp-at-100-singapore-and-chinese-communist-party-share-an-evolving-pragmatic
- https://www.thinkchina.sg/former-singapore-fm-george-yeo-ccps-centenary-chinese-revolution-continues
Supplementary Notes
There have been a number of positive statements about the PRC from Singaporean politicians, but these do not seem to be in the majority yet. Some expressing such sentiment include senior cabinet officials, including the Prime Minister.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have received direct or deferred benefits from PRC-connected individuals or entities openly or covertly (e.g. have been appointed to lucrative positions as board members or consultants with PRC-invested firms, casinos, energy companies, etc.) during or in retirement from public office.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
9 countries chose this answer
0/ No
40 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
7 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
0 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
18 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
8 countries chose this answer
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Link are reports of former Singapore politicians or senior civil servants taking Link board roles with PRC-related firms. Former foreign minister George Yeo is the most prominent. He works with the Kerry Group (嘉里集團) and Kuok family which purportedly has close ties with the CCP. However, the lack of disclosure laws mean that not all these relationships are easily observable.
- https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/former-foreign-minister-george-yeo-step-down-chairman-kerry-logistics-network
- http://www.chinanews.com/gn/2021/05-08/9472472.shtml
- https://www.thinkchina.sg/former-singapore-fm-george-yeo-ccps-centenary-chinese-revolution-continues
- https://investor.pinduoduo.com/index.php/corporate-governance/board-of-directors
- https://sgchina30.businesschina.org.sg/en/chairman.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, security services (安保/保安) offered by private PRC companies are contracted by national or subnational governments.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
67 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
3 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
7 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
3 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Private security contracted by the Singapore government tend to be local firms/auxiliary police such as Certis Cisco or AETOS.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Foreign Policy
The Foreign Policy Domain gauges PRC efforts to achieve diplomatic objectives by influencing key actors in the Index country.
My country’s legislature has a joint parliamentary friendship group, committee or other forms of sub-organizations with PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
25 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
57 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore's Parliament is dominated by the executive, so it does not have the committee, caucus, or friendship group structure common to other legislatures. Government Parliamentary Committees are largely dormant and tend to help the ruling party sound out and spread its perspectives as their main function. Parliamentary committees largely have procedural functions.
- https://www.parliament.gov.sg/about-us/parliament-information/functions
- https://www.pap.org.sg/whos-who/gpc/
- https://www.parliament.gov.sg/about-us/structure/select-committees
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Representatives of a political party in my country’s national legislature have met officially with representatives of the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
3 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
13 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
20 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
40 countries chose this answer
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore's ruling party, the People's Action Party apparently engages in exchanges with the Chinese Communist Party. In particular, the Young PAP (the youth wing of the PAP) has been trying to learn from the Chinese Communist Youth League 共青團.
- https://wikileaks.org/plusd/cables/09SINGAPORE863_a.html
- https://www.asiaone.com/News/Education/Story/A1Story20090303-125908.html
- https://www.theonlinecitizen.com/2009/03/16/the-paps-fascination-with-communists/
- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/pap-ccp-ties-have-greatly-benefited-people-of-spore-china-lee-hsien-loong
- https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/chinese-communist-party-100th-anniversary-pm-lee-xi-jinping-15124152
- https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/ccp-at-100-singapore-and-chinese-communist-party-share-an-evolving-pragmatic
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
The PRC provides training to diplomats or civil servants on governance from my country (such as at 国家行政学院 or 中央党校).
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
39 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
11 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
6 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
10 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
14 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Since 2009, the Singapore Public Service Commission (PSC) has been sending "scholars" to China. Many of these "scholars" return to serve in prominent positions in the Singapore state bureaucracy.
- https://www.ifaq.gov.sg/psc/apps/fcd_faqmain.aspx?qst=hRhkP9BzcBImsx2TBbssMsxu7lqt6UJK70a1wAEVmycm8u7udp5pnWhEg6NlG%2Fp7TDA72EOrTiURa%2FAeMBtFTdEc93Cs9Ghdiz8zglbKO1X8chVP6N4vFljGxa0F8wJIPspdI7A66khoJIbBjlAJG%2FhqrWxLuwGBCY9aLodY5gUlCVr8ivh8GG241QF7WXSfWjFDGceXBN2US%2FfhvB%2ByiX8heGPlZP4C6AY9dTKTYIQ%3D
- https://www.scholarschoice.com.sg/scholarship/189/psc_scholarship_public_finance
- https://www.psc.gov.sg/docs/default-source/psc/psc-annual-report-2009.pdf?sfvrsn=2
- https://www.psc.gov.sg/docs/default-source/psc/2018-psc-annual-e-report.pdf?sfvrsn=bcce49df_2
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have been pressured by PRC diplomats to change their political or diplomatic stances.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ No
41 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
8 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
4 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
21 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
7 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Following the detention of Singapore's armored vehicles in Hong Kong in 2016 and 2017, Singapore has become visibly quieter over the South China Sea dispute and international rule of law relating to the PRC. The Singapore state has instead emphasized cooperation with the PRC and advised that the US and PRC set aside their differences.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
Citizens of my country have been detained in PRC or denied exit visas, and believed to be suffering from unfair legal treatments for political reasons, a.k.a. “hostage diplomacy”.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ No
61 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
19 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not currently known, but Singapore is as opaque as the PRC, which makes such information difficult to know.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
The head of state, head of government or foreign minister of my country has denied Taiwan’s right to participate as a member, observer or guest in WHO.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
3 countries chose this answer
0/ No
65 countries chose this answer
4/ Yes
14 countries chose this answer
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not in public.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country publicly supported the appointment of a PRC official to be the head of a United Nations agency (such as the FAO or ICAO) or other intergovernmental organizations (such as INTERPOL).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
9 countries chose this answer
0/ No
62 countries chose this answer
1/ Few, but insignificant
2 countries chose this answer
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
1 countries chose this answer
3/ Few, but significant
7 countries chose this answer
4/ More than a few, and significant
1 countries chose this answer
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No reports found. Whether there is behind the scenes lobbying is unknown.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has shown support of PRC's territorial claims (such as on the South China Sea arbitration ruling issued by the UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal in July 2016; except claims over Taiwan, which are indirectly covered in indicator 6.)
Silence
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ My country has rejected PRC’s claim
24 countries chose this answer
2/ My country has remained silent
36 countries chose this answer
4/ My country has adhered to PRC’s claim
21 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore calls for peaceful resolution to the competing the South China Sea claims. It previously criticized PRC behavior with regard to the arbitral tribunal procedures, but has stayed silent on the actual sovereignty issues. It calls doing so, "not choosing sides."
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has shown one of the following stances on PRC’s treatment of its Uyghur population.
Support
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ My country has denounced PRC
31 countries chose this answer
2/ My country has remained silent
32 countries chose this answer
4/ My country has voiced support to PRC’s stance
17 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore seems somewhat ambivalent. Top officials have voiced a need to exercise care. A working-level official has voiced support and this has been published in both the PRC and international media. Singapore officials and diplomats in particular are subject to significant discipline and internal scrutiny. Usually much more so than other states. Statements on highly sensitive issues such as Xinjiang are very likely to require higher level approvals, even if it is issued by a consul-general.
- http://wap.xjdaily.com/xjrb/20210629/177030.html
- https://www.economist.com/china/2021/08/07/chinas-efforts-to-lift-xinjiangs-economy-may-smother-it
- https://www.pmo.gov.sg/Newsroom/PM-Lee-Hsien-Loong-at-the-Aspen-Security-Forum
Supplementary Notes
Singapore Prime Minister at Aspen Security Forum, August 3, 2021: I think it is a very delicate matter for China. They have a very challenging situation to deal with in Xinjiang because it is one of those situations where you are not sure whether which way to go. If you take it very stringently and tightly, that may result in a pushback. If you ease up too much, that may result in situation bursting forth elsewhere. And from an external point of view, if you take a view that you want to express moral approval or disapproval, then you have to try and make a calculation whether that will make a difference to your objective, and will that make things better or worse in China? It is always delicate for a country to be publicly expressed disapproval of and to accept that and say yes, I will learn and do better. I think no country in the world does that. So the question is how you are able to continue to operate with them and yet at the same time, you have your views, they have their views, and without compromising your position, you maintain your dignity but you do the business, which is necessary. You have had to do that in many countries on many occasions; your diplomats understand this problem. Link Singapore Consul-General in Shanghai, 許瑋芝, 新疆日報, June 26, 2021: 新加坡驻上海总领馆政务领事许玮芝说，一路走来，我们看到政府花了大力气来改善当地人民生活。更为可贵的是，各项措施不断提高居民生活质量，同时做到“修旧如旧”，充分体现了新疆重视保护少数民族文化的事实。 Link Singapore Consul-General in Shanghai, 許瑋芝, The Economist, August 7, 2021: “We have seen the great effort by the government to improve the lives of local people,” gushed the consul-general of Singapore, according to Xinjiang Daily, a state-run newspaper. Link
- https://www.pmo.gov.sg/Newsroom/PM-Lee-Hsien-Loong-at-the-Aspen-Security-Forum
- http://wap.xjdaily.com/xjrb/20210629/177030.html
- https://amp.economist.com/china/2021/08/07/chinas-efforts-to-lift-xinjiangs-economy-may-smother-it?__twitter_impression=true
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has shown one of the following stances on PRC’s treatment of its Tibet population.
Silence
Skipped
2 countries chose this answer
0/ My country has denounced PRC
21 countries chose this answer
2/ My country has remained silent
46 countries chose this answer
4/ My country has voiced support to PRC’s stance
13 countries chose this answer
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore has said nothing officially about the PRC position on Tibet.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My government has not publicly criticized the PRC’s imposition of the National Security Law on Hong Kong.
Support
Skipped
1 countries chose this answer
0/ My country has denounced PRC
24 countries chose this answer
2/ My country has remained silent
36 countries chose this answer
4/ My country has voiced support to PRC’s stance
21 countries chose this answer
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Singapore officials and state-related media have supported the Hong Kong government's crackdown on protests in Hong Kong. Some of this has to do with the People Action Party's own paranoia about mass protests, often seeing them as synonymous with riots and mass violence.
- https://hongkongfp.com/2019/11/10/singaporeans-dont-back-hong-kong-protests/
- https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-protests-singapore-idUSKBN1WV1Z7
- https://www.ft.com/content/0d8cba3c-f539-11e9-b018-3ef8794b17c6
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.