A thought leader, according to Cambridge Dictionary, is an expert on a particular subject whose ideas and opinions influence other people. When someone’s profession is either representing or leading a nation, then naturally, their insights can range across a multitude of topics, from social values to complex foreign policies. In fact, the three thought leaders honoured in our most recent Asia’s Most Influential (AMI) list are all foreign policy heavyweights.
George Yeo was Singapore’s foreign minister from 2004 to 2011. Professor Chan Heng Chee served as Singapore’s ambassador to the United Nations (UN) from 1989 to 1991 and to the US from 1996 to 2012. She has been an ambassador‑at‑large ever since. Professor Tommy Koh similarly served as representative to the UN from 1968 to 1971, then again from 1974 to 1984, and as ambassador to the US from 1984 to 1990. He, too, is still an ambassador‑at‑large.
Of course, the trio have also worn multiple domestic policy and cultural hats. All are recognised for their breadth of knowledge and their willingness to speak up on issues they are passionate about, even if those opinions may not be particularly aligned with those of the ruling party.
As we start the year 2024, we ask these thought leaders for some quick insights. We gave them a choice of a few questions to answer.
GEORGE YEO
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the next‑generation leadership as they step up and take on the mantle of leading Singapore?
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