[FULL] Hostile influence ops targetting Singapore "a clear and current danger": Vivian Balakrishnan 

It's really criminal that there's so little views for this. This 30mins sums up what we need to know for the coming decades...

Singapore is so blessed to have a bunch of really really intelligent, honest and devoted ministers and leaders. Of course I also recognise that these views can’t possibly be coming 100% from them alone. The people behind the scenes that work tirelessly to feed our leaders with accurate information and wise advice must be so many of them and only our ministers know who these people are that make who they are today. A superb interview once again from Minister V Balakrishnan

Whenever n wherever US n gang go, the place is not going to enjoy peace but turbulence n violence. Unfortunately it is Asia's turn now after ME and Ukraine.

Can anyone enlight me what did Singapore do or say when another member of UN Security Council invaded Iraq & Afganistan ?

In our present world the big boy, the top dogs are bully and nasty and the small guy follow the habit, actually were often encourage to follow and be ally to them. If the leader behave, the others will follow . I believe the world can be civilised and people can see that working and living together peacefully is a good option.

When u tried to scare people but scare yourself instead 😂😂😂

“Our mainstream media remains a credible source of information, it is important we keep that reputation” Unfortunately some people are starting to say that Singapore's mainstream media are just echo chambers of western main stream media. It is not without basis. For example, most of ST's articles are reprints of Reuters, AF-P, NYT, Bloomberg and other US media. Many of its "expert" views are written by people who have linked to US interests, e.g. ASPI which receives funds from the US state department and military industrial complex. Videos on ST and CNA on foreign affairs generally has guests with links to the US government or its allies. Singapore's main stream media needs to address that before it loses its credibility.

What does the FM think about the USA invading tiny Grenada? He could have set a bigger example for Singaporeans about the existential threat Singapore faces from bigger neighbors? More BS for the willing Singaporeans?!

Should the FM be upset that France did not pay Gazprom for the month of July and gas to France has now been discontinued? What in the devil's name will that make Singapore's sanctions against Russia and the FM look like.

Sgp very every ready to capitulate to the US/UK demands whatever rises.

yes, support

Wished they said more about US invasion of Middle East. Wished they said more about the situation in Gaza and Palestine.

Which country often use might/force to threaten other sovereign countries?

How about the huge gap from rich and poor in Singapore? The Singaporean people are already hugely divided within themselves and the hostile environment is slowly building internally. I believe that Singapore is a ticking time bomb for imploding.

Is Singaporeans united? From the last few elections, the answer seem to suggest more divisions. United States is a falling Super power and they know it. Their people is never more divisive than now (their own admission) and that's why they need to make sure China cannot surpassed them. The mean reason is "Money"...US dollar reserved currency if gone, US will be in disaster mode, they know it and this day will come sooner if China is strong. However, short of a war with China, US will be second or third power. Unfortunately, History tells us no Superpower will go down without a Big fight!

Excellent interview and kudos to the Minister for his very measured and thoughtful responses. However, two points that I wished he'd expand a bit more on are: a. Singapore's stand on the condemnation of the Russian action and the limited sanctions imposed. Yes, I totally agree with and completely accept the UN Charter on sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations big and small especially with regard to the behaviour of the larger more powerful nations with "might is right" capabilities. Whilst the Minister is technically correct to take a stand to condemn Russia's action, it'd have been more balanced and objective for him to add, in the same breath, that it could possibly have been avoided if Russia had not been so provoked by certain "might is right" powers , to do what they (Russia) had no other choice but have to do, as they considered it an existential threat. Singapore , may probably have reacted in a similar fashion too if push came to shove by its neighbours! b. Unless I've missed it, but I don't hear the Minister taking a similar stand objectively without taking sides, on the Taiwan issue . In this instance, universally accepted principles of "sovereignty and territorial integrity" have clearly been violated by a "might is right" party on the other side of the planet under fictitious pretence of being the self appointed global policeman to "protect" international shipping lanes when it is not even a signatory of the UNCLOS. To deny and to attempt to deliberately misterpret legally signed and universally accepted agreements under a self coined term of "strategic ambiguity" makes a farce and a joke of all treaties and agreements signed making them not worth the paper that they're written on. It certainly is in Singapore's interest to continue to take a neutral stand on these matters but I can't help feeling that its slightly biased towards the US/west which may be partly attributed to the fact that the whole cabinet and probably the majority of the people in authority in government are educated in the West.

insightful interview, summarising very much what is happening globally..

Hallo! Hallo! Yes, Minister! What do you have to add to the UN Human Rights report on Xinjiang that serves the interests of the USA and its white western allies and India? A report based entirely on Adrian Zenz's article, funded by NED. What do you think of the UN and following the International Law Order of the USA now? Penalize the Uighurs with Sanctions?

So this is the guy who said RI must be a lousy school. Arrogant beast in full display.

❤️

“Don’t take side.” “National interest.”👍

Singapore has good leaders.. And they make decisions for what is best for Singapore. It may be an unpopular decisions, but long term it is. Good governance! Blessed.

I'm so worried that this has only 100k views

Good old days are over..... don't be bias..... be fair to your very own citizen... simple as that...

The Minister is very optimistic in his approach which is the need of this hour and his interview has been very insightful. Yes, agree that the foreign policy starts at home. Kudos to the interviewer too.

He stated that Singapore will face security problems in the coming months on food, energy and water. Given that SG imports most of our food, energy and a large amount of water, he or the relevant government agencies, should elaborate on what he meant.

In the name of fear, they can do whatever they want. Increase this n that…electricity, water u name it. Just after he said Singapore is friend of all, enemy of none.

If one can't distinguish right from wrong, propaganda or not, one can just look at the past history of this particular person or channel. Have they lied before and if yes, how often. How they talked and express themselves in terms of tone , facial etc. expression are signs to look out for.

On ground level, we as Singaporeans must be aware of what is going on in our surrounding, whether on land or at sea. We need to be able to discern betw the usual noisy marketplaces and "repetitive, ongoing discordant noises" that cuts above just people being brashly opinionated that manipulate, divide, erode, the trust we already basically have among the general population.

Very good knowledge of history despite his medical background 👏 👌 👍

Insightful analysis of PM NDR speech, answered & articulate intellectually, potential DPM calibre, with great political talent in Q & A interview.

First in most Singaporeans Minds...Let go JB!!

In politics- we call this creating a common External enemy. Scare tactic In order to garner public support for oneself.

This guy is weak ! A dangerous guy if he is not careful, find a better strong guy to take up the post.

The EU and US sanctions imposed on Russia do not apply to Singapore, so it seems. However, the American threats to African nations and South Americans for circumventing sanctions are real, clear, and present but rejected by the African Union nonetheless. Gazprom Singapore is cutting LNG deals with Indian companies. Hypocrisy, double standards, and dishonesty are priceless at such a time. That is, if you believe the USA, EU, and Singapore have sanctioned Russia. Singapore's existential threat principle is reason why Singapore FM needs to sanction Russia. 😷OK,

FM, what do you think about the gas/oil sanctions imposed on Russia by the USA and EU and the gas/ oil price hike in the EU and USA? Do you still agree with the sanction?

What about foreign religious influence?

It’s unfortunate critical thinking has not been widely thought in schools. Maybe want to start asap?

Yes I get it Really get it And I’m prepared I got my shit together sir

You'll never get any right answers from politicians. So what's the point of always pushing it to ordinary people as if they lack understanding about the world, geopolitics, ideologies, religions, racism etc. Most ordinary people aren't dumb to understand all these during their growing up years and most know about history of the pasts, be it of leaders, people or countries etc. It's just, some get their information and facts sooner or later than others but in their lifespan will eventually come to know. Top of everyone's mind is not all that but about who feeds them and where their rice bowls come from, while still living in these troubling times. And you can't feed people or give people jobs just by ideologies, religion, social medias infowar etc. So, the alternative is to rob or steal from others by using all these political tools to justify wars, sanctions, invasion etc. Surely, now you can see who are the aggressors and who are victims in any wars or conflicts.

Had Singapore sanctioned US, UK and France when these UNSC permanent members illegally invaded, bombed and pillaged other sovereign nation states? If not, why not?

What was the position of Singapore with regards the US and UK invasion in sovereign IRAQ in 2003? Did Singapore make same stand. I’m not justifying the invasion of Ukrain.

Stratergy Goverment and Company always same or not? If not same, What do company do to business not bad.

The minister has not directly answered whether we are psychologically prepared for real conflicts in our midst.

This was really insightful: "Foreign policy begins at home. Without a united population immunized against foreign interference or influence you will find that the future governments of singapore will be constrained in our pursuit of and our protection of our long-term national interests."

I too stupid to understand this. I went to lousy school.

"Singapore is not anyone vessel state and not interested to harm anyone... dont take side take stand" I think it's not only Singapore's interest but Asean development narrative interest ....show support please ASEAN VIEW.

Sorry but majority of citizens have no idea what is happening around the world and how serious this will be.

" ..our MSM remain credible sources of info.." How does that square with its consistent 160th or thereabout ranking by reporters without Borders , huh? Pls la, just like you, the only lawful arbiter of truth of info , right?

A couple of questions for Minister Balakrishnan: 1. What type of news does CNA propagate most times? Eg those from Reuters 2. What is Singapore's view of American/NATO invasion of Iraq (detergent WMD), Afghanistan, Libya and Syria? 3. How do you view America's recent move to "junk" the Shanghai Communique which they signed with China?

As usual, always trying to uplift and upsell themselves, to make themselves looks valuable! There are external threats; either self-inflicted, beyond control, or even self-directed! Spore is a well known place we know where FEAR are instilled into people since independence from Malaysia. To make themselves looks important and relevant, whats new!

Singaporean should be afraid of nobody but themselves!

Good to hear the MFA's thoughts the global position and his idea of Singapore's approach to it. But I disagree with the notion that Russia's offense against Ukraine is in a bid to reestablish old borders. John J Meersheimer has pointed out that NATO expansionism placed Russia's national interest of self-preservation at risk. It's the equivalent of Malaysia and Indonesia forming an alliance which put Singapore's safety at risk. Would Singapore not launch a preemptive attack?

Singapore's media is credible source of info? Depends on how you look at it. Is always regurgitating the govt's position and walking on eggshells on not so pleasant issues credible to all?

Praying for Singapore. This is the only concern. Lord God Jesus, have mercy on all countries, change the hardened hearts of the people. 🙏

No foreign agent dare to comment here lol. They scared kana called out

Notwithstanding that we must stay united as Singaporeans, I have this unease about classifying the Russian invasion of Ukraine viz a viz Special operations (depending on which side of the fence you are on) as a "might is right" situation. Definitely, based on other very credible and reliable sources, not available in our MSM, Russia faced an existential threat they had to deal with. Hence they felt right to do what they have to do. Likewise, if one day, Singapore faces an existential threat or perceived to face an existential threat like that, wouldn't we have to do likewise. Considering the military might we have won't we be similarly accused? Maybe some wise men can educate me here.

He is 100% correct. The comments sections are poof enough

Should be “clear and present danger”!

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="555">9:15</a> who is he referring to? What group?

I totally disagree and foolish to impose sanctions against Russia. First it is not a UN security sanction and it is a danger to South East Asia countries for such a stance. In short, Singapore is pro western and USA by its actions. That's will anger big emerging powers and it is against the interest of Singapore and South East Asia countries.

Singapore’s foreign policy on geopolitical affairs is clearly and well articulated by VB. However, Singapore’s actions must be consistent if it’s to gain continued respect from other nations.

Most Singaporeans would be busy making a living than ponder and think of Russia invasion of Ukarine.

Brilliant interview, salute Singapore for its visionary leadership and courage to be on the side of upholding and defending rules-based international order.

Read papers , but beyond sph and CNA . Be critical .

All the more need for us to pray for God's mercy in these difficult and scary situations!

Wow. Do they always talk to you like you're children?

The results of the UN volts are not legal binding <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="772">12:52</a>.

We already know what UN, WEF, WHO and NATO are. Luckily not all Singaporeans are gullible.

sph and cna dont give the full story but he is right there is a lot bad things coming

I wonder if ur position not to take sides would necessarily have to change if China invades Taiwan?

WOW! Unfortunately, the world is facing too many challengers and there are not enough nations like Singapore to save the earth. So, I guess it's just a matter of time. Hope Singapore can be the modern NOAH's ARK. Need to prepare to be able to survive based on internal food water supplies when things really go bad.

always refreshing to hear Minister Balakrishnan's views.

Please keep a close watch on CNA!

well they're mostly concentrated on the internet now so we're ok

Why don't we merge politically or have free movement of people's between nations, like that between Oz and NZ!

Singapore does not have truly capable leader. Only lots of talkers, real doers are non existence

Talk alot and lengthy, if u think back what he said. There is little or negligible substance. Thats typical Singapore government minister.

Hi class diplomatic salesman

Glad that our Gov has level-headed view on the conflict and make an important stand

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="395">6:35</a>, so, you don't think Dr Paul Yang has no interest in the lives of Singaporeans? His license was threatened, and there is no public open debate to his concerns raised.

Omg.....i really admire vivian.....i have to refer to his insight in understanding whats happening around the world....clear, candid and insightful....

What is On Pentagon cards?..Water have been tested in Taiwan Straits. Singapore greatest friends will be always ASEAN..especially Indonesia and greater region ASEAN..War is imminent in Taiwan Straits..Singapore greatest friends will be its good neighbours 💝🍎👌🌹💝

Too timid n overly cautious with his choice of words. He looks so overwhelmed with fear n anxiety as he speaks as if one wrong word n some powerful foreign forces will come down hard on his throat

Good mouth but he's the one who always go over budget

Singapore is obliged to purchase exclusively overpriced US military hardware and give logistics facilities to US Navy. Otherwise the one party PAP government can easily be overthrown by US funding and support of opposition groups under excuse of human rights and absence of so called democracy.

Take it seriously if not you will regret 😔

Divisive, multi-racial, cohesive etc etc are words, as used by the powers that be in Singapore, that basically say, just do as I prescribe. Otherwise, you are being divisive and threatening cohesiveness. And you'd better know your place or action will be taken to 're-educate you'

National Endowment for "Democracy"

No matter what happens,Singapore will align to USA forever. So all these talk about security and hostile foreign influences are nothing ,but plain crap.

Singapore is a neutral country. Right.?

Compare the contents of the news with various sources. There are definitely certain sources that you know is/are reliable in your mind.

So profoundly said - MFA begins at home.

Brilliant foreign minister! Crystal clear when explaining the interest of the sovereignty of the nation. God Bless Singapore 🇸🇬

I just looked up the dictionary 'motherland' also refers to your ancestors' homeland. Singaporeans can have different views, it doesn't mean that when they are different , they must be from a certain country.

Nothing to prepare when it come it will of God

Brilliant person ! But global reality is very complex.

Why is he speaking so damn slowly?

Viva La Singapore, Mr Vivian Balakrisnan, all Singapore leaders/supporters for a wonderful, prosperous, safe future for the WHOLE region. Amen, Amen, Jai Hind, Shalom. Peace to the WHOLE WORLD

Better diversify the investment in China to other countries, as not to get caught between China and US. And also diversify the export to China to other countries!