Malaysia - Singapore Update 2013

Malaysia and Singapore are Southeast Asian success stories. Since independence they have made remarkable progress in social and economic development, and in achieving political stability. Bolstered by these achievements, the UMNO-dominated Barisan Nasional in Malaysia, and the People’s Action Party in Singapore, have remained in power since independence.

However, in recent years there has been discontent among Malaysian and Singaporean citizens with these ruling parties, as evidenced by the 2008 and 2013 general elections in Malaysia, and the 2011 general elections, two by-elections and the presidential elections, in Singapore. Social media in both countries became platforms that spread strident anti-government criticisms.

The proven policies of delivering economic progress and socio-political stability, so successful in the past decades, now seem insufficient to guarantee the BN and the PAP victory at elections. The ruling political establishments need to address the changing expectations from their electorates urgently. This not only calls for a better understanding of the issues that are driving the discontent, but also the efficacy of the current economic, political and social models of governance in managing emerging issues and expectations.

The Malaysia and Singapore Update 2013 brings together experts to discuss and debate recent elections, the key issues that influence governance and policymaking, and to recommend ways to respond to changing perceptions and societal expectations – taking into account both domestic and external influences that are impacting on Malaysia and Singapore.

For the Update 2013 programme, please visit: Malaysia and Singapore Update 2013

For registration, please visit this LINK