On 10 September 2021, Business China organised the fifth Distinguished Leaders Dialogue Series (DLDS) with Singapore’s Emeritus Senior Minister, Mr Goh Chok Tong as guest speaker. Titled “Deciphering the Global Order in the Never Normal Geopolitical Landscape”, the closed-door dialogue session was conducted in a hybrid format.
The two-hour dialogue session saw 107 invited attendees who included prominent business leaders, Advanced Leaders Programme (ALP) alumni, Business China corporate members and Business China Youth Chapter (BCYC) members. It was moderated by Business China CEO Ms Tin Pei Ling.
Business China Chairman Mr Lee Yi Shyan gave the opening remarks, recounting ESM Goh’s journey in politics. He also shared some light-hearted anecdotes depicting his personal interactions with ESM Goh while they were still serving in the Public Service.
ESM Goh then took the stage to share captivating stories from his experience in international affairs.
After his engaging speech, the audience were given the chance to ask questions. Questions asked in the first part of the session was largely centred around the theme. ESM Goh commented that much of the future world order will hinge on how the US-China relations pan out, and depend on whether the two global powers can build trust in one another and find ways to collaborate even as they compete.
The dialogue covered a wide range of questions, including US and China’s influence in the region, Singapore’s relevance to China, as well as the politics and leadership succession situation in Singapore.
Eight attendees purchased autographed copies of ESM’s book “Standing Tall: The Goh Chok Tong Years, Volume 2”, and proceeds were donated to charity organisations of ESM’s choice. As a gesture of gratitude, ESM Goh personally presented the books to these donors.
The Distinguished Leaders Dialogue Series is Business China’s flagship dialogue series. It features Singapore’s eminent political leaders, who share their invaluable insights on pertinent issues and trends related to China and ASEAN. It is attended by invited members and stakeholders of Business China.