STATEMENT BY MR JOSHUA MATTHEW GOH DELEGATE TO THE 76TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY ON AGENDA ITEM 30, ON SPACE AS A DRIVER OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, PLENARY 25 OCTOBER 2021

Madam President,

1                      Singapore welcomes the consensus reached on the Space2030 Agenda and its implementation plan by the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). This consensus reflects the growing importance and global interest attached by States to space activities, and of the recognition of the need for greater international cooperation in this important area.

2                      Space is taking on an increasingly significant role as a major driver of sustainable development and in the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Many space-based technologies support critical government functions and everyday life, from monitoring weather patterns and environmental conditions, to telecommunications and public health. Singapore is building a robust space sector, in which our research institutions and companies are developing innovative space-based solutions to support sustainable development needs in our region and beyond. For example, ST Geo-Insights leverages geospatial imagery data and analytics to help farmers monitor crop health and size, as well as optimise fertilizer and water input, while the Earth Observatory of Singapore’s recently launched Remote Sensing Laboratory uses tools such as Synthetic Aperture Radar to map and understand natural disasters, to support regional and other international stakeholders in disaster response and preparedness.

3                      The use of space-based technologies has also been crucial in global efforts to analyse and address the effects of climate change. Singapore has a keen interest in this area and recently joined as a member of the Space Climate Observatory (SCO). We look forward to contributing to the SCO’s efforts to use earth observation tools and data to study climate change and its effects, to which small island developing states are the most vulnerable. We also look forward to being involved in similar initiatives to better utilise space-based technologies for sustainable development efforts.

4                      Access to space science and technology applications and space-based data by all countries can support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. It is therefore important that we work together to encourage the use of space technology to provide equal opportunities to all, such as by enhancing internet connectivity and access to data and broadband technologies, especially in areas with less-developed infrastructure. In this regard, we welcome efforts by Singapore-based companies such as Kacific and Transcelestial to provide broadband connectivity via satellites at low cost to under-served areas in our region. Kacific’s satellite broadband services, in particular, have enabled those in remote areas to access crucial services such as telemedicine and online education.

5                      Space-based solutions offer much potential for development, but the proliferation of space activities by various stakeholders has brought about new challenges such as space debris and orbital congestion. It is imperative that the international community continues its efforts towards promoting the responsible and sustainable use of outer space to ensure that our future generations will continue to enjoy the benefits of the space economy. Singapore reiterates our commitment to preserving outer space as a peaceful global commons, to be harnessed for the collective benefit of all humankind.

6                      Singapore looks forward to working with all Member States to advance the peaceful exploration and use of space. We are committed to the Space2030 Agenda and will continue to support efforts at the UN and elsewhere to promote an open, inclusive and rules-based approach to the responsible use of outer space.

7                      Thank you, Madam President.

.    .    .    .    .