Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong defended an exclusive deal with Taylor Swift, which sees her performing six concerts from March 2 to 9 in Singapore under a government-funded initiative to boost tourism post-COVID-19. Critics from neighboring Southeast Asian nations argue they're missing out on the tourist influx Swift's concerts bring.
Lee clarified that Swift received incentives from a tourism fund, making Singapore her sole Southeast Asian stop. While some ASEAN neighbors may feel excluded, Lee emphasized the deal's success and suggested it was a preemptive move to prevent another country from striking a similar deal.
When questioned about potential discord among ASEAN leaders, Lee did not directly address the issue but emphasized the need for mutually beneficial arrangements. Swift's representative did not immediately comment on the matter.
Lee highlighted the importance of such deals in growing economies and fostering goodwill. He also mentioned Australia's arrangements with Swift, which he believes were made in a similarly beneficial manner.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, hosting the ASEAN summit, attended one of Swift's Sydney concerts last month, indicating the star's widespread appeal and the significance of her performances in various regions.
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