Planet: Eorn

a.      What challenges do you think the planet faced?

Eorn primarily generated Credits and Food, which are common resources compared to others like Minerals or Tech. As a result, Eorn struggled to negotiate high-value trades since its resources were not considered rare or highly sought after.

The planet also had to constantly trade in order to meet its upkeep and achieve its secret objectives, placing it in a vulnerable position. Eorn’s economic limitations made it difficult to influence diplomatic decisions and sometimes led to it being overlooked during major negotiations.

b.     How did your team approach your dialogue or negotiation with the planet?

Our team recognized Eorn’s position and chose to engage in equitable trade that would benefit both parties. We offered resources that Eorn had trouble acquiring—such as Water or Minerals—in exchange for Credits or Food, which helped us balance our own needs. Instead of exploiting Eorn’s dependency, we built a recurring trade relationship, which created a sense of stability and trust.

This helped ensure smoother collaboration in later rounds, especially when dealing with collective issues like Spaceport Tax payments or responding to game Events.

2.      How can these lessons encountered during the game play apply to real-world situations?

The challenges faced by Eorn reflect the struggles of resource-poor nations in the real world that depend heavily on trade and international cooperation. Just like in the game, countries with limited strategic resources need to find their comparative advantage and establish reliable partnerships.

This scenario also shows how economic inequality can affect diplomatic power and influence. From a global perspective, it highlights the need for stronger economies to support more vulnerable nations, not just for moral reasons, but to maintain global stability and prosperity.

1. Building underground helps protect critical infrastructure from climate threats such as extreme heat, rising temperatures, and storms. Underground facilities naturally benefit from insulation, reducing the need for active cooling and energy usage. This makes them more sustainable and resilient — a key concern for densely populated cities facing climate change.

2. In land-scarce cities like Singapore, going underground enables more efficient use of limited land. Essential facilities such as roads, utilities, data centers, and even retail or transport hubs can be moved underground. This frees up surface land for housing, green spaces, or recreational use, helping to improve the urban quality of life while still meeting infrastructural needs. (https://www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Get-Involved/Plan-Our-Future-SG/Innovative-Urban-Solutions/Underground-space)

One of the most important factors in Singapore's success is its stable and efficient government. The country has built a reputation for having:

• Transparent institutions that fight corruption effectively.

• Strong rule of law, where laws are enforced fairly and consistently.

• Long-term planning, which allows the country to anticipate and prepare for global trends.

This political stability builds confidence among international investors, foreign governments, and global institutions. It also allows Singapore to maintain a consistent foreign policy and respond effectively to global issues like pandemics, economic shocks, or regional tensions.

2.      Economic Openness and Adaptability

Singapore’s economy is one of the most open and trade-reliant in the world. To thrive in a global economy, Singapore has:

• Developed into a global financial and logistics hub, with one of the busiest ports and airports in the world.

• Built a highly educated workforce through strong investment in education, technical skills, and lifelong learning.

• Embraced innovation and technology, encouraging start-ups, digitalisation, and green transformation.

• Signed multiple free trade agreements (FTAs) and joined international economic forums to stay connected to global markets.

Because Singapore cannot afford to be inward-looking, it must constantly adapt to new industries, technologies, and global demand.

3.       Active Global Engagement and Diplomacy

Singapore practices what is often called “niche diplomacy” — using its unique strengths to contribute meaningfully to the global community. It:

• Maintains friendly and balanced diplomatic ties with major powers such as the US, China, and the EU, without taking sides.

• Promotes ASEAN unity and supports regional cooperation on economic, political, and environmental issues.

• Actively participates in international organisations such as the United Nations, WTO, and WHO.

• Offers technical assistance and capacity-building to developing nations, especially through the Singapore Cooperation Programme.

By being a consistent, responsible, and principled player on the world stage, Singapore earns global respect and influence

4.      Social Cohesion and National Identity

To thrive externally, a country must also be strong internally. Singapore has a multiracial and multi-religious society. National unity and social cohesion are crucial because:

• Internal harmony allows Singapore to focus on long-term development and global cooperation.

• A strong shared identity promotes resilience, especially in times of crisis or when facing global challenges such as disinformation, pandemics, or rising nationalism.

• Inclusive policies help Singapore project itself as a model of peaceful multicultural coexistence, enhancing its international reputation.

5.       Commitment to Global Challenges

To be taken seriously in the global community, a country must show leadership on shared global concerns. Singapore does this by:

• Taking steps to combat climate change, such as implementing carbon taxes, developing green buildings, and investing in clean energy.

• Promoting digital governance, including cybersecurity and AI ethics.

• Supporting public health initiatives, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, where it shared resources and research with other countries.

Singapore shows that even small states can have a voice in shaping global norms and standards if they lead by example.

Conclusion

In conclusion, for a small state like Singapore to thrive as a member of the global community, it must:

• Maintain strong governance and long-term planning,

• Remain economically competitive and innovative,

• Engage actively and diplomatically in global affairs,

• Promote internal unity and inclusive national values, and

• Contribute responsibly to global challenges.

Singapore’s experience proves that size does not limit global impact — rather, it is the quality of leadership, unity of its people, and readiness to embrace change that determine a nation’s ability to succeed in a complex and ever-changing world.

I hope this message finds you well.

As a polytechnic student who has recently completed a module centered on Singapore’s history, values, and development, I would like to share some reflections that I believe may be meaningful for you in the years ahead.

A significant takeaway from this module is the importance of social cohesion and shared responsibility in shaping our nation’s success. Singapore's progress did not happen by chance — it was built through determination, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to unity amidst diversity.

Understanding our national identity and the values that bind us together has deepened my appreciation for the delicate balance between economic growth and social harmony.

In terms of resilience, I have learned that adaptability and a growth mindset are key. The world we live in is constantly evolving, and challenges are inevitable. However, by embracing change, remaining open to new learning opportunities, and supporting one another in times of uncertainty, we can overcome adversity and emerge stronger — both as individuals and as a society.

To promote inclusivity and contribute to nation-building, I believe it is essential to cultivate empathy and respect across all levels of interaction. Whether in school, the workplace, or our communities, we should strive to create an environment where every person — regardless of background, race, or belief — feels valued and heard.

Inclusivity begins with our actions: by engaging in open dialogue, practicing active listening, and standing up against discrimination, we contribute meaningfully to a more united and compassionate Singapore.

May you carry these reflections forward as you play your part in shaping the future of our nation.

Warm Regards,

Jia Hui

A Polytechnic Student