In a commentary, SMU Associate Professor of Law Eugene Tan noted that meticulous urban planning has enabled Singapore to attain a high quality of living, delicately balancing the inherent tension between the economy and the environment.  He shared his views on relevant issues such as the conflicting interests between Singapore’s immigration policy and its national identity, as well as the inherent tension between the economy and the environment. Associate Prof Tan pointed out that the quest to balance economic growth with environment concerns and social character is not a mere luxury but a growing imperative. He added that as Singapore seeks its place in the league of global cities while promoting a sense of belonging among its residents, it needs to focus more on what it is that makes the city distinctive as well as a home for everyone.