MDDI Poll finds High Trust Level Among Singaporeans towards Government Handling of Foreign Policy

MDDI Poll finds High Level of Trust Among Singaporeans towards the Government’s Handling of Foreign Policy

MDDI’s 2024 poll found that more than 7 in 10 Singaporeans trust the Government’s handling of Singapore’s foreign policy is in Singapore’s best interest

Singapore, 27 September 2024 - The Asian Barometer Study (Wave 6) released today found that China’s influence in world affairs was viewed more positively compared to the US. The study found that Singaporeans are slightly more likely to perceive China to be good for Asia and Singapore when compared to the United States (US). China is also largely viewed by Singaporeans as the country that will have the most influence in Asia in 10 years,

2 Polling by MDDI have consistently shown that Singaporeans understand the need for an independent foreign policy. A poll on foreign policy conducted by MDDI in June 2024 found that Singaporeans felt relations with the US and China had improved in the last few years.¹ 6 in 10 Singaporeans rate the relationship with both countries as good or very good. 6 in 10 feel that Singapore should maintain the current level of closeness to the US and China.

3 The poll also showed that Singaporeans overwhelmingly expect the Government to act in Singapore’s best interests notwithstanding their personal views on the US or China. Over 8 in 10 polled are of the view that Singapore should act in its best interests and not take sides. 7 in 10 Singapore citizens said they trust the Government’s handling of foreign policy and that it would act in the country’s best interests.

¹This is a demographically representative poll of more than 2000 Singapore citizens aged 15 years and older.