As ASEAN navigates a more uncertain world, its leaders are deepening regional cooperation. In this special dialogue, Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong and Philippine Trade and Industry Minister Cristina Aldeguer-Roque discuss the opportunities and challenges ahead, from AI and digital trade to energy security. As geopolitical rivalry intensifies and technology reshapes economies, can ASEAN stay united, relevant and ready for the future?

In a period of intensifying geopolitical rivalry and global economic disruption, how does a small, resource-constrained nation like Singapore secure its future? Speaking at the 18th ASEAN & Asia Forum, Singapore’s Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance, Jeffrey Siow, outlines the roadmap for Singapore's economy over the next five to 10 years.

Speaking at the opening of the 11th Singapore Economic Review Conference, Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat unveiled a series of housing policy updates, including the immediate removal of the 15-month wait-out period for private property owners purchasing HDB resale flats. He also revealed that the Government is reviewing the possibility of lowering the current minimum eligibility age of 35 for singles to buy HDB flats, reflecting Singapore's evolving demographics and changing housing needs.

Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong explains that fraternity— the trust, shared norms, and cooperative relationships among people of different backgrounds is essential for turning the country’s diversity into a strength rather than division. He argues that strong social bonds across groups help build trust, a sense of belonging and social resilience, which in turn support economic competitiveness and national unity.

In the Regional Outlook Forum 2026 on Jan 8, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong spoke about issues including US-China relations and highlighted Asean's efforts to maintain regional stability, despite internal conflicts.

As Singapore marks 60 years of independence, multiculturalism, meritocracy and harmony remain core, with growing social trust and appreciation of diversity. Ongoing challenges such as social fragmentation and differing perspectives underline the need to keep strengthening cohesion and inclusivity.