Much of the attention following the National Day Rally on Sunday (Aug 21) has unsurprisingly dwelled on the plans to repeal Section 377A of the Penal Code and the protection of the institution of marriage.

However, the other issues that Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong discussed in his speech deserves similar attention. These include Singapore’s external environment, economic challenges, and the necessity of long-term plans. In recent years, the accent of international affairs in National Day Rally speeches has increased. That in itself is a reflection of the geopolitical flux and vagaries we have been witnessing, which the man on the street is very much sheltered from.

This focus beyond our navels is important. Singapore’s hinterland is effectively the world at large, and it is vital that Singaporeans and businesses operating here understand why and how the country is impacted by geopolitics, as well as the imperative to protect its national interests on the global stage.