Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat highlights globalisation, technology, and ageing issues at the 2nd Asia New Vision Forum in Singapore.
Singapore, 25 September 2024 – Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat addressed the 2nd Asia New Vision Forum, organized by Caixin Global in Singapore. The forum, chaired by Ms. Hu Shuli, focused on tackling key global trends and challenges such as globalisation, technological advancements, and demographic shifts. DPM Heng examined how these forces are reshaping economies, the nature of jobs, and societal dynamics, particularly in Asia.
Reflecting on the changes of the 20th and 21st centuries, DPM Heng traced the evolution of globalisation and highlighted China’s pivotal role, referencing major milestones like China’s entry into the World Trade Organisation (WTO). He also discussed the increasing backlash against globalisation due to job displacement and the rising stresses from scientific and technological advancements, including artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology.
In his speech, DPM Heng further elaborated on the challenges of ageing populations, rising healthcare costs, and the need for continuous learning. He emphasized the importance of collective global solutions for climate change, food security, and pandemic preparedness. Heng also urged for regional collaboration to address common issues while respecting Asia’s diversity in governance, culture, and history.
“My own view is that if there are global challenges, we need global solutions. It is important for us to bring the world together. It is a more fragmented word than it was 30 to 40 years ago, but it is important for us to deal with common problems through cooperation. A good example is climate change,” he said.
The event underscored the importance of strengthening global economic cooperation, with DPM Heng promoting free trade agreements and Singapore’s Industry Transformation Map as examples of progress in adapting to modern challenges.
Source: PMO
