SINGAPORE – Even though the global economy did not succumb to the “Liberation Day” tariffs imposed by the US in April, many countries, including Singapore, are now in a worse off position.
And they will be so for a long time to come, said Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Dec 6 at the official reopening of Cheng San Community Club.
This means less growth and progress for Singapore, more friction with other countries and a more troubled world, SM Lee said.
This is even as Singapore’s economy is projected to perform better than expected in 2025, he noted.
The Ministry of Trade and Industry had upgraded the country’s growth forecast to 4 per cent, from the 1.5 per cent to 2.5 per cent range projected in august. the economy is projected to grow between 1 per cent and 3 per cent in 2026.
Singapore was among the countries hit by a 10 per cent baseline tariff, or taxes imposed on imported goods, that US President Donald Trump announced on April 2.
SM Lee said the US is now taking a vrey diffrent attitude towards international trade and investment,and towards its relationship with other countries.
“It no longer believes in win-win cooperation or in rules which apply to countries big and small,” he said.
Instead, the US now prefers to deal with countries on a bilateral basis, using its relative strength to maximise benefits for itself, the Senior Minister said.
He added: “It believes that if it imposes tariffs, then it can reduce its trade deficits and get some extra benefits from other countries.”
In such a less certain and more troubled world,everybody loses,with smaller countries left the most vulnerable,he noted.
The Republic’s relations with its neighbours are generally stable, good and cordial, he said, pointing to the recent 12th singapore-Malaysia Leaders’ Retreat.
“The retreat went well, but between neighbours, there are always issues,” SM Lee said, noting that such longstanding issues will not be easily resolved.
Water, airspace and maritime boundaries were cited as three main issues during the retreat.
cheng San Community Club Reopens with Upgraded Facilities, Focus on Community Wellness
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The newly upgraded Cheng San Community Club in Ang Mo Kio officially reopened on December 6, 2023, offering residents enhanced facilities and a renewed focus on community building and wellness. Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Ang Mo Kio GRC MP Nadia Ahmad Samdin attended the opening, participating in a mindfulness activity with residents. https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/community/cheng-san-community-club-reopens-with-upgraded-facilities-focus-on-community-wellness
The revamped community club boasts new features designed to cater to diverse interests and promote social interaction, including a culinary arts studio and enhanced spaces for community activities.
New Facilities and Programs
The upgraded Cheng San Community Club features several key improvements:
* Culinary Arts Studio: This new studio will host workshops focused on healthy cooking techniques, utilizing produce from community gardens. this initiative aims to promote healthy lifestyles and sustainable living.
* Enhanced Community Spaces: The club now offers improved spaces for residents to gather, participate in activities, and foster a stronger sense of community.
* Mindfulness Activities: The opening event included a mindfulness session,highlighting the club’s commitment to promoting mental and emotional well-being.
Resident Reactions and Community Impact
Residents expressed enthusiasm for the upgraded facilities and the opportunities they provide. Janani Balamurugan, a 17-year-old junior college student, highlighted the importance of a physical space for community connection.”Having this physical space that connects all the residents together is really crucial for us to slow down, spend some time with the people around us and really build that community spirit,” she said. https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/community/cheng-san-community-club-reopens-with-upgraded-facilities-focus-on-community-wellness
The upgrades reflect a broader initiative by the People’s Association to enhance community spaces across Singapore, providing residents with accessible venues for social, recreational, and educational activities. https://www.pa.gov.sg/
Looking Ahead
The reopening of the cheng San Community Club signifies a commitment to strengthening community bonds and promoting a vibrant social life for residents of Ang Mo kio. With its new facilities and programs, the club is poised to become a central hub for community engagement and wellness initiatives in the years to come.
Key takeaways:
* Cheng San Community Club has reopened after undergoing important upgrades.
* New facilities include a culinary arts studio and enhanced community spaces.
* The upgrades aim to foster community spirit, promote healthy lifestyles, and support resident well-being.
* The reopening was attended by Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and MP Nadia ahmad Samdin.
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