Singapore's Balancing Act: Training Military with Taiwan and China

Singapore is training its armed forces with both Taiwan and China, a rare move that highlights how small nations navigate complex regional dynamics. Through Project Starlight, SAF personnel undergo infantry, artillery and armoured exercises in Taiwan, while separate joint programmes engage the PLA Navy. The dual approach allows Singapore to strengthen operational readiness without taking sides in the China-Taiwan rivalry, maintaining a neutral and pragmatic posture. Taiwan benefits from the partnership as it has few international military allies due to Beijing’s diplomatic pressure. Singapore’s foreign policy emphasises adherence to international law and norms, ensuring that engagements with both powers protect sovereignty and avoid entanglement. Experts highlight that any unilateral strike against Taiwan’s leadership would be risky, reinforcing the strategic importance of careful diplomacy. Observers say Singapore’s dual ties provide a blueprint for other small states: pragmatic engagement, transparency and neutrality are key to preserving security in contested regions.. The arrangement also signals broader lessons for East Asia: small nations can participate in regional security while maintaining independence, avoiding the pitfalls of aligning too closely with any major power. Read on how Singapore’s dual ties is a model for small-state diplomacy here. A recent survey reveals that most Singaporeans are skeptical about the future of younger generations, SCMP reported. Respondents cited economic challenges, high costs of living, and intense competition as key factors shaping their outlook, according to SCMP the 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer report. Younger Singaporeans expressed even more concern than older citizens. Many fear that social mobility may decline and opportunities may not improve compared to the current generation. Job prospects and affordability topped the list of worries. Citizens worry that rising costs and increased pressure will make life harder for the next generation. These attitudes highlight broader societal unease. Social analysts suggest this sentiment may affect public morale and confidence in policy outcomes. Globally, rising insularity and declining trust are linked to similar anxieties. The 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer finds that populations worldwide increasingly distrust institutions and favour personal networks over formal authorities. Experts warn that local pessimism mirrors global trends. When citizens perceive limited opportunities, societies risk retreating into insular worldviews, eroding trust in governments and institutions. What You Need to Know Survey and findings (Singapore) Most Singaporeans are pessimistic about the future for younger generations. Key concerns include rising living costs, job competition, and inequality. Younger Singaporeans report higher levels of worry and fear shrinking opportunities. Trust in formal institutions is declining, with citizens relying more on personal networks. Global context The 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer identifies rising insularity as the next global trust crisis. Globally, populations are increasingly distrustful of institutions, favouring family, friends and close networks. Economic stress and social inequality are linked to skepticism about the next generation worldwide. Key stats (from Singapore survey) Majority of respondents doubtful about youth prospects. Top worries: Jobs, affordability and social mobility. Generational divide: Younger citizens report more pessimism than older respondents. The US Embassy in Singapore has invited local businesses to “consider substantially larger gifts” for the 250th Independence Day celebrations on 4 July 2026, Mothership reported. The wording reportedly sparked confusion among Singaporeans online, who wondered whether the embassy was requesting monetary contributions or sponsorships. Social media users shared memes and commentary questioning the appropriateness of the ask, noting that foreign embassies typically do not solicit gifts from local businesses. While some expressed humour, others labelled the phrasing as diplomatically ambiguous. The embassy’s invitation is reportedly part of standard planning for large-scale celebrations, including cultural events and public gatherings. Experts note that the 250th anniversary, known as the US Semiquincentennial, involves heightened engagement by US embassies globally. Local media have highlighted Singaporeans’ puzzlement over the phrasing, contrasting it with other embassies’ standard practices. Some noted that diplomatic language is often misinterpreted outside formal channels, particularly when it involves terms like “gifts.” The event coincides with heightened US-Singapore ties, as US President Trump’s ambassador, Anjani Sinha, recently discussed America’s support for Singapore’s economic recovery – dubbed the “Singapore miracle” – and now calling in the favour. This broader diplomatic context may help explain the embassy’s engagement with local businesses. Observers say no official clarification from the embassy has been issued to confirm whether businesses are expected to make financial contributions.