Describing Singaporean's "red passport" as "one of the most accessible passports in the world", Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan said Singaporeans are "some of the most widely travelled people in the world."
"That's a good thing," said Vivian during the Committee of Supply debate for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) on Feb. 29, 2024.
However, he said he is "sometimes worried" that Singaporeans would ask the MFA for a "warranty" on their safety overseas.
He said,
"I do have your back and I will do my best, but I can't give you a warranty that the world the rest of the world is as safe and secure and peaceful as Singapore."
Do check the travel notices and advisories when overseas
Vivian was answering a question by Nominated Member of Parliament Mark Lee, on whether MFA would support and provide reassurance to Singaporeans working and living overseas, particularly during this "volatile global landscape".
He asked for the ministry to "inspire confidence among the Singaporeans and families" to allow them to pursue their global opportunities "boldly" — by letting them know the ministry "has their back".
While Vivian said he's heartened that Singaporeans are "broadening their minds and horizons" by looking for opportunities overseas, he has their back but won't be able to give a "warranty" that the rest of the world is just as safe as Singapore.
"So during those rare occasions when MFA actually issues a travel advisory or travel notice, I appeal for Singaporeans please pay attention to it.
Don't go to a troubled spot if you really don't have to.
And in any case, if you do, for whatever reason, please register with us and we'll do our best."
The travel advisory for Israel and the Palestinian Territories was last updated on Feb. 7, 2024.
The other two recently updated travel notices are for Mindanao, Philippines, and to avoid the vicinity of Mount Semeru in East Java, Indonesia.
All other travel notices and advisories can be found on MFA's website here.
Probably safer within Asean
Vivian also highlighted that Singapore has a "very good informal but functional relationship within Asean".
Therefore, when Singaporeans need help within the region, even when Singapore doesn't have a mission on the ground, Vivian said the ministry would be able to informally reach out to their Asean networks for assistance.
"I should record my thanks that there have been even occasions when evacuating Singaporeans from war zones, we've had to tumpang (hitch on) convoys led by organised by our Asean neighbours.
So that's another plague for Asean and why we must get into this habit of looking out for each other."
Top image via Changi Airport.