Whilst more than half of Asians feel positively about
the impact of economic globalisation and nearly three quarters want
increased cooperation between Asian countries, an overwhelming majority
are opposed to a free flow of workers within the region with an open
border policy.
Indians reflect a similar outlook towards the impact of economic globalisation,
like their other Asian counterparts. At the same time, a majority
of respondents pointed to employment as a major concern and called
on their next generation of leaders to prioritise job creation.
The survey suggests that Asia’s next generation of leaders
have a lot to live up to. In addition to economic reform and development,
they will need to focus on ending corruption and introducing more
democracy. However, they will not be without support – 40 per
cent of respondents said they were willing to pay higher taxes to
stimulate faster development both in their own country and in the
region.
Proportionally more respondents in India (72.2 per cent) are willing
to pay taxes to stimulate faster development in both their own country
as well as in other Asian countries. Indians also identified the
‘education system’ as the most necessary area of improvement,
which governments should strive for.
The business community was also under the spotlight in the survey.
Approximately half of the study’s respondents reported that
they trust companies operating in their own countries expressing
that corporations acted in the best interests of society - particularly,
providing employment, which was perceived by the vast majority (86.2
per cent) as the main role of the corporate sector in society. However,
in India, "To be innovative and make advancements" is
thought to be the main role of companies in a society, followed
closely, by its foremost role "To provide employment."
Other key findings include:
* Respondents from the Philippines felt, more than any other country,
that globalization had negatively affected their lives (28.4%).
* In Hong Kong, with the lowest rate of corporate tax in the region,
respondents ranked “pay tax” as the primary function of
business in society.
* Proportionally more respondents in India (72.2 per cent) than
in Singapore (25.2 per cent) are willing to pay taxes to speed up
development in the region.
Commenting on the findings, World Economic Forum Director for Asia
Frank-Jürgen Richter said, "The study adds a new dimension
to the Summit’s discussions by indicating the relevance of
our programme – on regional integration, the challenges of
globalisation and the role of business in society."
TNS Regional Director for North Asia David Richardson added, "We
are honoured to be associated with the World Economic Forum and
applaud its efforts to explore new angles of cooperation. We hope
that the findings from this survey will provide some support to
this."
The World Economic Forum held its 12th East Asia Economic Summit
in Singapore from 12 to 14 October. This year 800 participants from
32 countries came together for discussions and decision-making on
the Summit’s theme "Asia’ Future: Recapturing Dynamism."
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