Why Taylor Swift's Singapore Concert Deal Was A Masterstroke In SE Asian Politics

Our very own 'mastermind' Taylor Allison Swift has become the person of interest to not only music lovers but also world leaders! Her staggering career growth and charismatic personality not only makes her a popular and a beloved musician but also strategic, focused and a planned individual. Taylor Swift announced 'Eras Tour', a world tour that will be dedicated to her prior work (albums she has released as of now) - 10 hit albums also known as 'eras.' She has had sold out shows which has boosted the economy of the United States of America  during the US tour. Since she commenced her world tour certain 'swifties' have been disheartened to see very less Asian countries and even less South-Asian countries represented in the Eras Tour itinerary. The cause of this dismay might be what the Prime Minister of Singapore announced this month. 

"All Too Well?"

"Our agencies negotiated an arrangement with her to come to Singapore and perform and to make Singapore her only stop in Southeast Asia. It has turned out to be a very successful arrangement. I don't see that as being unfriendly," stated the Prime Minister of Singapore. This statement has stirred resentment and discontent from the neighbouring countries and their leaders.



Indonesian Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno said, “International music events, such as Taylor Swift concerts, do have a big impact on a country’s economy. But I’m sorry Swifties, Taylor Swift hasn’t stopped by in Indonesia yet. Bought out by Singapore. However, this is a lesson for us," on his Instagram handle.

Filipino leaders said the deal was unfair and, "this isn't what good neighbours do." Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin made remarks that were seen as expression of "jealousy" but later on Prime Minister's Spokesperson said, "The tone and meaning that the Prime Minister has used when [talking] about this issue, were not to criticise or express jealousy towards Singapore.” Further added, "Singapore’s proposal was an approach that shows they dared to think and dared to do it, and that successfully made Taylor Swift’s team agree to have the exclusive performance in Singapore, the only country in the region. That has benefited the country." 

"Look What You Made Me Do"

The unease and tension occured due to the pop star's large fandom and popularity who travel to lengths just to attend her concert. While the leaders were busy clarifying, defending and criticising each others' stance people from neighbouring countries and South-Asia at large flew to Singapore to watch their beloved Taylor Swift perform for 6 straight days in 'all sold out' shows. Prime Minister of Singapore was very 'swift' and ahead of others when they came up with this tactical approach. 

Forbes predicted, "large influx of foreign tourists attending the concerts will add between $225 to $300 million (SGD 300-400 million) to Singapore’s economy", "Travel site 'Trip.com' told CNN that sales for flights into Singapore between March  1 and 9 rose 186% due to Swift’s concert."

As Taylor Swift continues to amaze us and the entire world it also makes us light up with glee to think how a woman's presence and absence can make several nations and their leaders debate with eachother because of how necessary she is for their economy.

Views expressed by the author are their own