Bilahari Kausikan - Is World War 3 Imminent? & What Will A Second Trump Term Mean For Us? |

Former Singapore diplomat Bilahari Kausikan stops by the YLB studio to share his candid views about the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, and to discuss how the struggle between the global superpowers will ultimately affect us in Southeast Asia. Also, he answers the big question on everyone’s minds: are we headed towards World War 3? What will a second Trump term mean for the rest of the world? While all this sounds really grim, he also tells us why he believes he’s bringing a message of hope.
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00:00 On this episode...
00:20 Intro
01:17 What Exactly Is Diplomacy?
03:04 Bilahari's Accidental Start In Diplomacy
10:12 Pragmatism vs. Emotion
16:45 People's Responses to Israel-Hamas
22:03 Why Calling US-China a Cold War Is Dangerous
25:03 Singapore Is Not In The Middle
31:24 Fundamental Purpose of Diplomacy
33:40 Why the ICJ's Rafah Ruling Will Not Matter In The End
44:57 Can SG Even Do Anything With Regards to Israel-Hamas
51:25 Why We Have to Believe In Diplomatic Solutions
53:59 Is World War III a Possibility?
01:01:03 Lesser Known Challenges SG Is Facing Today
01:10:50 One Shiok Thing
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One Shiok Thing
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- Out of Darkness - Trailer | • Out of Darkness | Offi...
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Find Bilahari!
- Facebook | / bilaharip.kausikan
- LinkedIn | / bilahari-kausikan-035b294
- Middle East Institute NUS | mei.nus.edu.sg/members/bilaha...
Mics and Headphones from ‪@shure‬
Chairs from ‪@ergotune‬
Edited and mixed by Tristen Yeak
Thumbnail photo by UX Gun on Unsplash | unsplash.com/@uxgun

[@zac9217]

This is an excellent interview and should be watched by all Singaporeans

[@YahLahBut]

Agree

[@MichaelZeng-hn5my]

Former Ambassador Mr Bilahari Kausikan is a brilliant diplomat for Singapore. He is intelligent n deep knowledges in foreign affairs.He is very very capable of diffusing mis concepts of Singapore ideals. I am fully admired his distinguished services for Singapore. Singaporean should be proud n highly appreciated for his contributions to ours little red dots in this part of the world.

[@Hs5687]

As like most SG Intellectuals , Good Spokesman But No Spine to Call Out PAP for their Failures & Abuses and Obsession for Profiteering Policies 😊

[@MichaelZeng-hn5my]

Personally ordinary persons or civil servant are not appropriate to make comment on the government policies. I think the elected opposition parties should bring up the issues if it is wrong n debate in the parliament to represent the citizens. They are paid salaried for the jobs. It my suggestions.

[@user-bs1xt2em5c]

@@MichaelZeng-hn5my Hey dude, just a heads-up, you're only one who have responsed to this troll comments that are sprouting everywhere. Friendly advice to research how to identify and manage troll traits. Typical SOP is just ignore, starve them of the engagement or response that they desperately needed. The more they taunt, bait, sprouting nonsensical contrarian, derailing topics etc. will inevitably expose all their hollow intent and insignificant. There is equal share of local and overseas out to sway, distort opinion or divide relationship. You will only want to response to constructive comment that stick to the same topics if not they are trying to derail or distract your surfing. Happy surfing.

[@hiroyukishinichi9873]

Always love Ambassador Bilahari's candor and clear-eyed analyses

[@zhenminliu]

It's a very educational video. Thanks to Bilahari and the 2 moderators.

[@benleong1809]

One more podcast added to my orbit , with lot of ' leh and lahs," but not only uniquely Singapore, seriously too , must survive in these ever changing dynamics of the world we are in. Thru the eyes of ex- diplomats.

[@choonhockong8215]

Bilahari Kausikhan, this time, I like your excellent views of world geopolitics. Keep it up.

[@malcolmsim4081]

Best episode, yet. While watching i remarked to my wife Singapore is fortunate to have folks like BK. She hopes he has mentored some people to continue Singapore's fortune.

[@YahLahBut]

💯

[@wonvivien21]

Leadership is the key factor for success and overcoming odds, absolutely. Living in Europe now, the situation is really dire and it’s not only geopolitical. There’s a leadership crisis.

[@EZPZMAGA]

I have a lot of time for Bilahari. Read all his books. Watched just about every YT clip with him in it, including sometimes 2-hour long speeches. Some even multiple times. Would gladly donate to charity for lunch with him a la Warren Buffet to tap his brains if he ever were to make himself available. Don’t know him personally but would love to. Any similar fans out there?

[@Aks5151]

👏👏 Must see for all Singaporeans especially younger ones and his reminding again what our priorities, interests and thought processes should be in this polarised world to keep singapore shining, safe and livable

[@YahLahBut]

💯

[@marcwaynejacob]

This was quite mind blowing! Thanks for the podcast guys and the great guest with great questions. Honestly have quite a lot to think about after all the information received from this. Might need a few more watches 😂

[@YahLahBut]

Thanks! 🙏

[@PokeShelter]

Love this episode. Really learnt a lot from Ambassador Bilahari ❤

[@ShadowHazard93]

I could listen to Bilhari and Kishore for hrs and hrs, we are blessed we have this people.

[@fongwee]

Love the conversation. The clarity of the realities of life is piercing

[@4o0l63]

One doesnt typically think of the geopolitical or diplomacy aspects often, quite eye insightful

[@mygumybear]

The key takeaway :- know your interest in heart and keep yourself afloat in whichever means in the stormy sea of geopolitics.

[@AK8901]

Wow I really enjoyed listening to this guest! How often do you meet a man who can speak at length about a whole range of controversial topics, and find nothing you disagree with?

[@YahLahBut]

💯

[@hatchegg80]

so you like hearing things that agrees with you, how will you learn a different perspective that way?

[@AK8901]

@@hatchegg80 by listening to perspectives that are new to you or different from your own.

[@hikkomorisg]

"National Interest" means it's not monopolized by any particular racial/religious culture and its ties to the "ethnically/historically rooted country". Take for example, i am a "Singaporean Chinese". I may share cultural and historical ties with China and ethnic Chinese communities worldwide, but my allegiance is to Singapore. "National Interest" is a distinction, which ensures that foreign policy decisions are made with the nation’s best interests at heart, free from the undue influence of ethnic solidarity. As Bilahari said, Singapore's multi-culture is "horizontally integrated", a non-hierarchical collective identity that prioritizes national cohesion over ethnic singularity. When all races and religions are treated with respect and given equal opportunities, this internal stability enhances Singapore's international standing, allowing it to punch above its weight in global affairs.

[@jefri4176]

Sg probably the only country that is "successful" in maintaining racial harmony because sg treat every race and religion as equal. Kudos to them. 😊👍

[@danwelterweight4137]

There are lots of countries who are multi racial and have many religions where people get along just fine. The reason why you do not hear about them is precisely because they barely have any conflicts or clashes.

[@hikkomorisg]

@danwelterweight4137 Kudos to them too

[@Hs5687]

@@jefri4176 Hilarious… Wanna Try Explain the “ Scandalous Uncontested PE17 “ Phenomena or You Prefer “ What Happened to SG’s Wealthy Arabs “ ? 😂😂😂 … ie. LKY has many Predatory Habits & Racist Policies… Consolation is , Only After LKY’s Passing is SG Government trying to Correct Damage Caused by LKY … 😂🎉❤

[@Hs5687]

@@jefri4176 Utter Rubbish 😂😂 … LKY had many Predatory Bad Habits & Racist Policies 😂😂

[@avinseow6535]

awesome strict talking guest, he should have a podcast!

[@zehahaha603]

A like for the detailed insight from Ambassador Bilahari

[@peranakan67]

Compulsory viewing. Insightful and a good glimpse into our foreign policy management.

[@nicrome]

1:01:31 i wished he tackled how with enclaves of various groups and tensions like the eg he gaves like China dream and the Modi dream etc etc who are expats now but could potentially push singapore to be less horizontal and more vertical. Wonder if the podcast can raise this issue with other ministers in the future? I think it’s a critical tension point that must be tackled, strongly, by the political elite. What are the podcast’s thoughts?

[@ownthegame3]

1 of the best interviews to understand world affairs process of connecting the dots leading to the events featuring in the news versus knowing the events views, opinions versus national interests, the foreign policy of words versus the foreign policy of deeds there is usually no definitive solution or consensus as everyone and every country has their different views and interests

[@YahLahBut]

💯

[@Curious-n9y]

Great work, lads. I loved the questions that you asked BK. It led to a very interesting and insightful discussion and sharing. I loved the part where you spoke about the middle position and he explained Singapore's position of the middle man. His explanation was clear, concise and effective unlike the many people who try to explain Singapore's position and confusing the many out there(including myself).

[@YahLahBut]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@77DeathGod]

Great interview. Just one feedback. Im not sure listeners are able to make out what is being said when sometimes 2 or even 3 of you speak at the same time and overlap each other. And I feel a bit too much of hmm, ahh, okay etc. But keep it coming, your guest shared some great insights. Hoping to hear more interesting stuff. Perhaps from some of our youth who have strong opinions on world affairs. Not necessarily an activist. Maybe just an ardent observer of politics.

[@zac9217]

Yes I agree. All the "hmmm hmmms" should be muted.

[@weichien19]

Great episode having someone like ex Perm Sec / Ambassador Bilahari come and give insights. It would have been even better if the interview touched on the difference in opinions expressed by respected diplomats (Mahbubani, Bilahari and Ong) and also by minister (Shanmugam) about how best small states should conduct foreign policy. KZbin comments section doesn't seem to allow me to provide a link, but one may search the internet - "Minister Shanmugam, diplomats Bilahari and Ong Keng Yong say Prof Mahbubani's view on Singapore's foreign policy 'flawed' ". Both camps shared their views back in 2017, yet I believe many in Singapore are still divided sadly.

[@user-yj3qm9et9w]

Since YT restricted your attempt, do pardon me for taking the liberty to surmise from a layman's reading perspective. Readers are encouraged to further self-validate. Besides agreeing with the senior Singaporean officials' strong criticism of Kishore Mahbubani's commentary. Kishore was basically suggesting small states like Singapore should act timidly or in an acquiescent manner on the global stage, particularly regarding the South China Sea dispute. To put it crudely as a layman, advocating Singapore to "kowtow" to a strong power like China, has made me puke till today. This contradicts Singapore's successful foreign policy approach of not simply deferring to larger powers since LKY, but rather asserting its interests on the international stage with the rule of law despite its small size.

[@YahLahBut]

He did talk at length about how a small state like Singapore conducts its foreign policy

[@weichien19]

Yes he did, however it was a pity he didn't touch specifically on the subject that divided his ex colleague Prof Mahbubani, from him (and also minister Shanmugam) back in 2017 about how small states such as Singapore and Qatar should "conduct itself" (elaborated by a fellow commenter above). A pity - because it is not often that we see in public, differences in opinions being shared by well respected foreign affairs heavy weights. Though that happened in 2017, I believe that today there still remains significant segments of Singaporeans that are aligned to both Prof Mahbubani's approach as well as ambassador Bilahari and minister Shanmugam's approach, and hence is of interest to these people. Great work YLB still, Im just sharing what would have been even better.

[@fookcheongloke1741]

I respect politicians who have independent of thought.

[@alantew4355]

One of the best episodes. Very informative, very insightful. 👍

[@YahLahBut]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@BeachBoi1000]

@@alantew4355 thanks to Yah Lah But whom help to bring out the good in him also but asking the right questions.

[@VincentChia_online]

Wonderful dialog that I listened end to end. Learnt alot. Wld like to buy him a double scotch!

[@somerslim25]

I stand for palestine but he is right, as Singaporean we stand for singapore to protect our national Interest , thank you sir , you ease my mind a little

[@biggpicture2930]

Sometime your actions turn out to be bad for national interest..

[@dansonng8369]

This is good n informative

[@reallynousername]

Singaporeans in general has shallow knowledge in Geo-politics due to our safe haven. More of these speakers and topics should be discuss so that our world view is expanded.

[@YahLahBut]

Who else would you recommend?

[@user-bs1xt2em5c]

@@YahLahBut Invite Sim Ann. She will be good to dispel all doubt on Singapore's stance and silence all the trolls.

[@lagofala]

@@YahLahBut Invite Professor Walid! Especially for the GE when the time comes.

[@bdjeosjfjdskskkdjdnfbdj]

this was the best episode on the podcast thus far

[@dannys938]

Lets talk about angels and demons. If you witness the level of destruction and the lives lost in Ukraine, we might not know who the angel is, but we definitely know who is the demon !

[@iBeelan]

Very informative and enlightening. The podcasters are good too🍷🍷🍷👍👍👍💖💖💖

[@YahLahBut]

Thanks! Make sure to share

[@Mystique1633]

Definitely enjoying and savoring this for the weekend. I've learnt so much from this I now know that I know so little. Great chemistry there too, wasn't expecting so much laughter but it kinda gives hope.

[@YahLahBut]

That’s all we need now!

[@David-rz9dt]

Best episode done guys. Kudos!

[@YahLahBut]

Thanks!🙏

[@BeachBoi1000]

Good work, he is really good. No wonder we have maintain very good foreign relationships. I be very devoted to work with such good boss, of course if I make the cut😂

[@boyzchannel3924]

Int. Law is flush when it can't stand up to Super Bullies

[@dennisyee9024]

Thanks for bringing him on. I love the interview and his insight into geopolitics.

[@dtbhkoh6575]

Bravo Bilahari Kausikan 👋 you speak with wisdom and objectiveness as a true Singaporean without taking any side, my utmost respect!

[@LonganLee]

@@dtbhkoh6575 would kau categorically declare he never been biased towards pap and never partisan and is always perfectly unbiased? 🤭🫣👀

[@jdan_dan]

*He is on Singapore's side! 👍🏼

[@LonganLee]

@@jdan_dan this is subjective to each person. I can also say Opposition questioning PAP is in the interest of Singapore

[@RetiredOrangUtan]

He is on the US side…

[@LonganLee]

@@RetiredOrangUtan I thought you don't have to be so blunt about it🫣🤭

[@Dragoondaniel]

one of the best episodes by far! great guest 👍🏻

[@TheGracehew]

Much Thanks for a realistic perception of our foreign affairs with the rest of the world….Kudos YahlahBut👍.

[@YahLahBut]

Thanks

[@Seriouslee568]

Holyshit..10 minutes in and i'm already picking up some geopolitics first principles from a master. Thanks guys for having him on! 🙏

[@sychoxxxx]

Wow. This man is a walking encyclopedia for geopolitics

[@Hs5687]

Geo Politics is an Extension of Lee Kuan Yew’s Predatory Bad Habits & Racist Policies . ie . Land Grab, Marginalising & Oppressing SG Muslims, Targeting, Looting & Plundering Wealthy SG Arabs , Ruthlessly Destroying not only Political Adversaries but also Influential People, Families & even Entire Communities etc … Rely Independent News Media Channels not Controlled & Obedient Mainstream Media 😊

[@nicholasgerard1579]

One of my favourite episodes this year and grateful for Bilahari's insights. Agreed with Mr.K that a better job could have been done to explain what's meant as 'Singapore's interest'.

[@SamC-mx2ud]

Good work guys inviting Mr. Bilahari, I'm impressed with his invaluable fundamental approach to knowledge and logic for managing controversial issues. His intrinsic explanation of Singapore's multiculturalism approach indeed crystalizes our uniqueness that upholds our independent diplomacy. Unlike George Yeo who is well taut vertically by Chinese chauvinism or Kishore reckless hubris with China's knowledge perhaps as he's rightly mentioned, Kishore has been studying too many international relationships. My salute to Mr. Bilahari's wisdom in explaining Singapore's real interest as an objective Singaporean. 👋

[@user-yj3qm9et9w]

Agreed!👍

[@patrickjeow]

⁠​⁠@@user-yj3qm9et9wI don’t agree with SamC’s opinion on George Yeo’s and Kishore’s view on the Main Land Chinese. Both of them are trying to tell the West not to isolate and not to underestimate China because the Chinese has them own historical system to deal with their internal problems. A good case of point was during COVID, the rest of the world comes to a stand still, but China GDP increases. If the west chose otherwise, they would be on the losing side because the west have to pay more for the same product. Both of them also shared the same opinion that eventually China is going to out grow US’s economic by then the West have no choice but to trade with China. The difference is the target audience. Mr G and Mr K audience were the European and the Taiwanese whereas Mr B’ are for local Singaporean.

[@user-yj3qm9et9w]

@@patrickjeow Obviously Kishore was wronged in today's context, look at China's desperately trying to revive trade with AU after sanctioning them with tariffs for asking COVID investigation. Kishore then belittled AU for being ignorant and blindly following USA leadership as their duly punishment which was unbecoming of a diplomat. George Yeo is actually condoning the CCP to continue their authoritarian crimes under the justification of Greater China Chauvinism doctrine to fault and instigate its citizens with hatred for every other nation for their past humiliation, not the historical or internal problem, but to divert citizen frustration and maintain their CCP absolute political power. So if war erupted with their blinded recklessness, you think George Yeo's hand would be cleaned?

[@Hs5687]

These are All Well Paid Influencers trying to Sell their SG’s Narratives

[@user-yj3qm9et9w]

@@patrickjeow China's economy is obviously mismanaged by CCP incompetents besides copying and reinventing from the West. Moreover, they don't understand the profound fundamental difference between the West's "free-associative questions" and the "war of all against all" of capitalist competition edge over China's more centralized, bureaucratic model. China's economy would not be in today's dire situation which I will not elaborate on, just see the 3 simple facts that never lie, Why are Chinese still flocking non-stop to the West, you may validate the queue outside the US embassy? Why does the fund outflow never stop? Why is Chinese still experiencing 60% of citizens earning monthly less than RMB1K per month? It's premature to advocate China's future economic prowess besides now having to resort to cannibalizing 3rd world economies with grandiose BRI and BRICS illusions to compensate for their domestic shortcoming. You should spare more time to refresh their real geo-economic situation.

[@ktan8]

Wow! You managed to get him on the show.

[@MJLStudios]

Quality of content in this episode.... next level man....

[@heishoi]

Very frank and straightforward 👍 Reality check for all

[@dahmon000]

Thks guys. One of the best episodes!

[@YahLahBut]

🙏

[@Simplejunk92]

I enjoy listening to him talking

[@eastcoastpizza784]

Thank you, for your service

[@YahLahBut]

🫡

[@davidcks]

Aiseh la!! 👍🏼👍🏼 I’m amazing at how you guys manage to invite all this steady fellows to chat..

[@nelsonterk]

Love the fact that Singapore have such bright people that build up Singapore

[@lijing6804]

great video......i got 2 of his books which were eye opening....besides Budapest Agreement, perhaps he might touch on the Minsk Agreement. Tony Blair interview on 3 key things LKY did - making English compulsory, bringing in talents & paying the correct pay for the leaders. And i thought bilahari like JW black label....

[@Coachchuateckguan]

Great podcast ❤

[@YahLahBut]

🙏

[@Salasaur]

It's refreshing to hear a casual conversation peppered with information from a realist. Kishore Mahbubani, George Yeo, and Bilahari Kausikan are all retired diplomats but not irrelevant. The only difference is the view on China. I do think some hawkish elements in China does take offence to Singapore not being Chinese enough. The speech that Sim Ann gave does makes it's way to Douyin. Not just Sim Ann, Lee Hsien Loong speech too with regards to how some of us might identify ourselves as the descendants of the dragon, and hence be sympathetic to China. However, our common identity should first and foremost be that of Singapore.

[@meganfoxbf]

China is always China first , the rest is to be used by China for China benefits .

[@oasislin4587]

There are too many PRC paid internet troll working hard on internet media to brainwash & manupulate SG mind to suck up their China, with even nasty comments agains Ukraine seeking global help....too many PRC spies around. Winnie-the-pooh regime advocate peace on the table yet exact aggression on south china see, only reinforcing mistrust towards them

[@nicklove3047]

Ya lor these people with differing views will need to exist & are equally important only then diplomacy has room to work with rather than having to just pandering to an extreme side....

[@4bT8w5u6]

Agreed, Bilahari Kausikan is a straight talker to call a spade a spade that speaks objectively for Singapore's interest. George is now selling China revival with the "Greater China Chauvinism" doctrine advocated by the CCP that LKY had warned during his time. Kishore thinks he knows Chinese culture and philosophy well enough but forgets China hasn't stopped fighting amongst itself since civilisation, even within the CCP now when comes to power. They can't discard their deeply ingrained Chinese feudalism mindset. Just listen to these 2 Singaporeans, they're already exhibiting the typical Chinese condescending tone in conveying their stance like CCP leaders.

[@1a23aJ]

@@4bT8w5u6 You're right, I've always voted for George and was disappointed when he lost. But after hearing his speeches on China's greatness, I am glad now he has lost, as I can't imagine any of Singapore's elected leaders can be so easily swayed and make Singaporeans a laughing stock being non-subservient in China.

[@uegenetristan]

At the end of the day we are all Singaporeans, regardless of race language or religion. Majulah Singapura 🇸🇬

[@Hs5687]

Sure anot ? Have You forgotten Scandalous Uncontested PE17? 😊 … so Disgraceful, the Shameless incumbent never even Contested for Re-election when Open to All Races 😊

[@Hs5687]

Sure anot ? ie Scandalous Uncontested PE17 … So Disgraceful that the Shameless Incumbent sneaked Out Back Door without Contesting for Reelection when Open to All Races …😊

[@Hs5687]

Yeah Sure … Forgot so soon abt the Scandalous Uncontested PE17 Circus 🎪? 😂

[@Hs5687]

Noteworthy, SG’s LKY not only Marginalised & Oppressed SG Muslims But also Targeted, Looted & Plundered Wealthy SG Arabs …. LKY did a Robbin Hood 😂

[@Hs5687]

At end of Day … Predatory PAP has made Most of Us Sheep to be Worked & later Slaughtered … ie. even Organs Harvested 😂

[@xxcaliburx]

Very interesting insights

[@YahLahBut]

Glad you think so!

[@vvvv5287]

Hearing from him gives me peace and hope. I was “disturbed “ with the happenings and worry how it will affects Singapore.

[@DaskyRiderChronicles]

loved this interview

[@miklee4834]

This guy deserves respect.

[@jolintanhl]

Very insightful session, thanks for doing this!

[@YahLahBut]

👍

[@clementihammock7572]

He remains as human, not a pumpkin to roll away. 😂

[@FUFU-o2d]

the funniest opening 🤣👏👏👏👏

[@David-rz9dt]

@YahLahBut the 3 things Tony Blair mentioned are. 1 English main language. 2. SG will bring best intellectual capital to SG 3. No corruption

[@oasislin4587]

At the Tony Blair interview, the ludicrous interviewer asked Tony Blain "what he would advise LKY if he had a chance......"

[@YahLahBut]

🤷‍♂️

[@Salasaur]

Because Tony Blair mentioned in the early part of that interview that the person he admires the most is Lee Kuan Yew. He is also the Dean of a school of public policy, and is teaching young leaders from around the world. The interviewer merely ask what can someone like Lee Kuan Yew learn, but Tony Blair immediately responded with Lee Kuan Yew, it's the reverse.

[@cosimocub]

he is saying that the peace terms proposed by Putin recently would just be temporary, Putin would only come back for Kyiv later on, if Ukraine, what is left of it, does not join Nato

[@arcencielc2065]

This episode has proven that the hosts can conduct a decent interview without vulgarities. I unsubscribed last year because I found the frequent F-word unacceptable and disgusting. I still unsubscribe lah but this video appears so I watch it as I am keen to hear BK's views.

[@YahLahBut]

🤔

[@biggpicture2930]

Half empty or half full ? who fills it?

[@oasislin4587]

Thought trump holds hand with poothin as he gravitates toward authoritarian?

[@poorpotato7623]

There’s some LKY in him, the speech cadence and the intonation when he ends his sentences. Must’ve spent a lot of time talking to him.

[@hanzhongguo2497]

Mr Bilahari should go watch Tony Blair interview , love to hear what he thought about the 3 points he made about LKY

[@biggpicture2930]

Former permanent member of WHAT? .... But you are permanent!!!!!!

[@gel-go-gett]

Watching the speech. Kind of remind me of Bruce Lee speech about water. "Be water, my friend.” The Yang and Ying of nature. Thats why Singapore needs to keep importing Indians, disregarding complains about CECA; so as to balance with the number of Chinese from Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, China. So that if the Malay/Indon Archipelago decide to invade, there be enough Chinese and Indians to fight. And coincidentally Bilahari is a Chinese/Indian mix parentage.

[@gel-go-gett]

But the only think stick out from this conversation was when he said. Regarding what come next, the next generation will have to handle the war. This is the type of thinking very ingrained in our leaders. They think for what they have to do for the next election, for the next decade. Whatever shit comes next, is not their concern. Cause they too have observed, the sheeps have no concern.

[@somerslim25]

Singapore will be in deep trouble if we have less and less of him , he is so much better then vivian, he dont suck up to his boss , u see vivian you can tell. He is lky with humour

[@8spores]

What does the guest think of India ?

[@thinkingaloud5379]

If the reason why Singapore imposed sanctions on Russia is because of the principle that a nation should not violate the sovereignty of another nation by invading it,then why did Singapore not impose sanctions on the US when it invaded Iraq and Afghanistan against the UN resolutions? Different rules for different folks?

[@audreygiamlayhoon]

Mine is Miss Marple

[@vanphongsavan3119]

, Salamud for smarther political diplomacy...It's times closer than before of two worlds of powers, Leassons need to be learned from the past and freedom need to preserved. conflicting is on the way soon !!, What I would like to ask exellency Bilajari how dangerous is in Lao PDR's situation in economic and political today especially in currency and managing development in focus? Thank you Sir...

[@JJ-iu6sr]

Invite George Yeo...

[@yl4521]

10:00. 26:20

[@jefri4176]

Many chim words 😂

[@jarrenloke2120]

It is pretty obvious that the interviewers have some deficit of knowledge to how the world function and at time struggling to think of intelligent questions to ask.

[@user-ckp838cn]

Well, lest they tried and this podcast has been quite a success and enlightened lots of Singaporeans to be objective. Mr. Bilahari Kausikan has rightfully expressed the essence of diplomacy and time to narrow diverse views. Importantly YLB exhibited its neutrality without blocking or censoring negative comments, unlike most content creators. Just have to be patient with their effort, they just got to get better.

[@philaxx8888]

You guys are pot smoking group? Get high can have great ideas

[@YahLahBut]

😂

[@LonganLee]

KAU said , "and Stability in the end depends on a Balance of Power" How convinced is he of what he claims? Will SG be stable when there is a Balance of Power? 🤣

[@user-gk8jc7nk3h]

**DRUNK DIPLOMAT !!!!**

[@charliecheng3340]

This guy is a joke

[@andrewrollout1657]

“An ambassador is an honest gentleman sent to lie abroad for the good of his country.” -Sir Henry Wotton, 1604

[@pjs20thetube]

One point to note is that Bilahari characterisation of Europe cutting defence spending and focusing on the butter issue is the kind of a bad trope as much as his hating the trope about characterizing the current situation as a repeat of the Cold War. His emphasis on social welfare is kind of overstated, I guess betraying his lack of understanding. First, defence is not a "European" competence as Europe is not a singular state. It may be a competence in NATO but that doesn't replace nation decision. Second, because defence matters is a national competency, the question then was how should country organise their forces? It is worth noting that even with the defence cut, Europe spend as much as the US. It is just that each country took, as he like to argue, their national self interest to spend as much and as little. For example, states directly bordering Russia had high levels of spending and they did not abolish conscription. If you go by the argument that state should think of their own self-interest, then clearly state far away from Russia could take advantage to cut spending. Thirdly, the country that cut defence significantly was Germany. The reason was other states (UK, France and Poland) in Europe were fearful of a powerful Germany given its record of starting two world wars. The UK and France in particular. NATO after the soviet union was, although not mentioned, meant to be a check on a united Germany. If you apply the logic of national self-interest as advocated by Bilahari, what should the German do, given its history?

[@LonganLee]

@@pjs20thetube any country that becomes world top tier expensive will face the same fate. Being the most expensive is a trap that such nations will not be able to get out of and eventually collapse. Singapore is one of the most expensive city and country in the world now. What a Majulah

[@RetiredOrangUtan]

George Yeo speaks for China, Bulgaria speaks for US, that is basically it. He is just echoing what US said. Europe core problem has nothing to do with defense spending but a culturally one. Imagine one day the world force Singapore to open its border because of instability in the region where you have to accept Malaysian Thailand Indonesian Philippines refugees…then I want to see how Singapore maintain its social coherence and harmony.

[@Salasaur]

When Vietnam war started back then, refugees did arrive en mass onto Singapore shores. Singapore was newly independent, but managed to set up temporary shelters and help the refugees find a new country willing to accept the refugees. Singapore did not had the capacity to accept a huge influx of refugees regardless of what humanitarian crisis around the region simply because we're already densely populated.

[@LonganLee]

@@pjs20thetube countries that become most expensive has a problem: once their infra is aged, they have no money to pay for renewal of infra especially for big countries. Being expensive is not a good thing

[@LonganLee]

@@pjs20thetube national and self interest is defined by the ruler. In this sense , it need not be the right thing all the time because leaders make mistakes. There is no one national interest possible because it depends on the leader and a different leader can have a different national interest defines by himself. So let's not be naive about this term

[@BrianPatrick-s6b]

Old fashion "realpolitik"...my country right or wrong

[@LonganLee]

Mr Kau, who defines National Interest? What if Opposition differ from you? Also, can your definition of self interest coincide with some of your party self interest? What is english? Its ambiguous inherently

[@hikkomorisg]

"National Interest" means it's not monopolized by any particular racial/religious culture and its ties to the "historically rooted country". Take for example, i am a "Singaporean Chinese". I may share cultural and historical ties with China and ethnic Chinese communities worldwide, but my allegiance is to Singapore. "National Interest" is a distinction, which ensures that foreign policy decisions are made with the nation’s best interests at heart, free from the undue influence of ethnic solidarity. As Bilahari said, Singapore's mult-culture is "horizontally integrated", a non-hierarchical collective identity that prioritizes national cohesion over ethnic singularity. When all races and religions are treated with respect and given equal opportunities, this internal stability enhances Singapore's international standing, allowing it to punch above its weight in global affairs.

[@LonganLee]

@@hikkomorisg Good answer. This leads me to ask, has someone ever claimed reason for doing something is due to National Interest but actually is for self/party Interest? Never?

[@nicrome]

There’s alot of people hating on him, but i think geopolitics is a core lifeskill for a singaporean

[@davidwong7283]

so easy lah . if singapore is invaded . who will save us ? u all guess lah ....china or usa or australia ? if course USA lah ! so we need to side with USA on ukraine .

[@anchored555]

No guarantee. There are no permanent allies. Only permanent interests. Countries will act according to their interests. So don’t bank on anyone else to save us. Better bank on ourselves.

[@LonganLee]

Kau said he dont think europe can defend without USA military, then what about SG? I have no idea

[@sychoxxxx]

Depends on defend against which country. Singapore is known to be one of the highest defence budget per captial

[@jefri4176]

Sg only can war with 2 countries. Malaysia and indonesia. Sg has many investment in both countries and both countries need sg investment. If it does go to war,sg won't be on defensive,sg will go offensive and attack both countries hard since Malaysia and Indonesia are so big,their forces are scattered around the country while sg is concentrated.

[@ewmurphy]

Good point. From the session, it is already clear MFA is a lame duck on the basis that he said SG is a small economy and the geopolititical issues are complex.

[@LonganLee]

@@ewmurphy you mean notwithstanding the "excuses" , the facts remain SG is militarily reliant on the USA?

[@ewmurphy]

@@LonganLee Good millitary relations and ally aren't the same. Do u think our defence is capable to stand on its own?

[@carolisme1]

Comments please about, we are living in a different World , our interconnected, complex and chaotic World is different from the past, a different tomorrow.

[@Naren8797]

Bilhari should read Ilan Pappe, Edward Said, Norman Finkelstein & Noam Chomsky to boost up his knowledge on Zionism & Israeli expansionism.

[@RetiredOrangUtan]

Won’t change what he says or contradict what he has says

[@johnchang1226]

He failed his PhD.

[@raymondwong6826]

This joker, waste of time. Lucky for SG he's just an ordinary diplomat, of no consequence.

[@tanc.h8675]

I got more respect for Kishore and even George Yeo over this joker

[@donaldjoseph3903]

​@@tanc.h8675agreed. Why he doesn't love China like George Yeo and Kishore.. why??

[@4bT8w5u6]

@@donaldjoseph3903 Simple, he speaks objectively for Singapore's interest. George is selling China revival with Greater China Chauvinism advocated by the CCP that LKY had warned during his time. Kishore thinks he knows Chinese culture and philosophy well enough but forgets China hasn't stopped fighting amongst itself since civilisation, even within the CCP now.

[@RetiredOrangUtan]

@@4bT8w5u6so it sounds like China has the best democracy since ancient times because democratic society would means one who fight among itself always. To have only one voice is not very democratic 😂

[@johnchang1226]

My guess the reason he could become a PS is because of his father.

[@hatchegg80]

bilahari is like this, he will have a go at anyone and everyone with the exception of lhl and his wife, that way, he gets to say what he wants about everyone else

[@LonganLee]

@@hatchegg80 is it like because language is inherently ambiguous allowing for rota prata flipping, folks like lawyers get to earn tons of gold using their mastery of the art?