Yah Lah But

#745: Backlash for PM Wong’s Comments on China-Japan Tension & Tiong Bahru Flats Fail HIP Vote

Nov 26, 2025
PM Wong’s remarks on China-Japan tensions ignited a fierce debate among netizens, highlighting the fragile political landscape. Haresh shares insights from his recent trip to Japan, noting a decrease in Chinese tourists amidst rising tensions. The discussion also touches on generational perspectives on wartime memory and the controversy surrounding Japan's comments on Taiwan. On the domestic front, residents of Tiong Bahru expressed diverse opinions on the narrowly missed HIP vote, revealing concerns about disruption and personal experiences.
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INSIGHT

Singapore PM's 'Move On' Remarks Stir Reactions

  • Lawrence Wong's comment urging China and Japan to "move on" sparked international backlash and was seen as insensitive by some.
  • Haresh and Terence note the comment landed poorly because it simplified deep, generational wounds tied to wartime history.
INSIGHT

History Remains A Live Political Sensitivity

  • The hosts argue historical wounds remain raw across nations and public statements can inflame emotions.
  • They highlight that leaders must be careful when applying a Singapore-style pragmatic lens to other countries' traumatic histories.
ANECDOTE

Visiting A Japanese Air Museum

  • Haresh recounts visiting an air museum in Hamamatsu that starts its timeline at 1950 to avoid wartime celebration.
  • He observed Japan's Self-Defense Forces carefully avoid glorifying pre-1950 military history.
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