A suitable model for the 21st Century?

The forum will discuss two countries that have had a long and close association with Australia, in areas including economic cooperation, education, security and refugees. Longstanding governments of the economically thriving states, Malaysia and Singapore, are now being questioned. In each, critical public discourse has blossomed, stirring questions of whether the current regimes are still optimal for the national interest.

Yet, with their enviable stability, growth and prosperity, shouldn’t these regimes and their attendant systems provide inspiration for the diverse states in the Asian region that is grappling with nation building and economic progress? In essence, are Malaysian and Singaporean models worthy of emulation? Further, how does possible change and future influence emanating from Malaysia and Singapore affect Australia’s interests in the Asian Century?

Panelists

Chair: Anthony Milner, Australian National University

1. Michael Barr, Flinders University.

2. Clive Kessler, University of New South Wales.

3. Marzuki Mohamad, Special officer to the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia.

4. Shandre Thangavelu, National University of Singapore.

5. Bridget Welsh, Singapore Management University.

Date: 12 September 2012
Time: 7.30 -9.30p.m.
Venue: Bruce Hall, Australian National University
40, Daley Road, Canberra, ACT

This event is free and open to the public.

This forum headlines the Malaysia and Singapore Update 2012.