MEDIA RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Singapore Institute of International Affairs honoured to be recognised as top 15 think-tank in Asia

29 Jan 2010, SINGAPORE – The Singapore Institute of International Affairs has been ranked the top 15 think tank in Asia, from over a thousand listed in the region. This ranking was released in the Global Go To Think Tank Rankings, an annual report developed by the University of Pennsylvania.

“As a small but networked and independent think tank in Singapore, we have done well, and are happy and honoured to be part of this list,” says Chairman of the SIIA, Associate Professor Simon Tay, who recently returned from a one year fellowship in New York’s Asia Society. “In Singapore, we are third behind two think tanks which are much larger and part of the universities,” he continued. “This accolade certainly encourages us to continue our current efforts to serve as a pulse-point by which our members, which include businesses and corporations, can count on for analyses which are succinct, insightful, and timely.”

Think tanks were nominated by a panel of close to 300 experts from around the world, and were assessed based on five main criteria: the rigour and relevance of the research and analysis produced, scale of operations, breadth of audience and financial support, contribution of research and analysis to public debate and the policy making process, and the organization’s overall impact on public policy.

“Our vision to be a think tank for a thinking people has led us to develop quality programmes – which this news will certainly energise,” continued Professor Tay. “As an organisation that will be soon celebrating our 50th year anniversary, we thank all our partners and friends who have lent us their support and help through the years.”

Additionally, SIIA’s Acting Manager for Policy Research Ms. Lim May-Ann highlighted the Institute’s efforts to engage the public. “Part of our efforts to offer fresh perspectives on current affairs is our weekly Media Note, which provides opportunities for interviews and commentary with thought leaders from the SIIA,” she said. “We look forward to increasing the level of dialogue that we’ve had with our partners, especially through the media.”

About the SIIA
The SIIA is an independent think tank dedicated to the research, analysis and discussion of regional and international issues. Founded in 1961, its research and events reach out to policymakers, business leaders, professionals and youth.

###

For more information and interview requests, please contact

Ms. LIM May-Ann
Acting Manager, Policy Research
may-ann.lim@siiaonline.org
+65-67349600 (office)
+65-98471950 (cell)

Mr. Anndy LIAN
Deputy Director, Communications, Events and Membership
anndy.lian@siiaonline.org
+65-67349600 (office)