Norman Aziz-Boey

Why MFA

A career as an FSO is challenging, deeply rewarding, and always underpinned by teamwork. FSOs operate in fast-paced working environments where global, regional and bilateral issues are constantly evolving.

As First Secretary (Political) serving at the Singapore Embassy in Beijing, I have come to appreciate that one must be resourceful in gathering and triangulating information to be an effective diplomat posted overseas.  This is particularly true when operating in country like China, whose politics and policies are keenly watched by countries around the world, including Singapore.

Another challenge in the Foreign Service is having to adapt to regular rotations to different assignments, both in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ (MFA) headquarters in Singapore and postings abroad.  At times, this will require stepping beyond one’s comfort zone and overcoming steep learning curves.  That said, these challenges are not insurmountable especially with supportive teammates. At Beijing Mission and in my previous assignments, I have had the privilege of working with close-knit teams and learning from some of the brightest minds.  Amongst the many unique and diverse experiences offered, FSOs have the opportunity to facilitate high-level exchanges between national leaders, often behind closed doors, with significant implications for Singapore’s foreign relations.

My work

A career as an FSO is challenging, deeply rewarding, and always underpinned by teamwork. FSOs operate in fast-paced working environments where global, regional and bilateral issues are constantly evolving.

As First Secretary (Political) serving at the Singapore Embassy in Beijing, I have come to appreciate that one must be resourceful in gathering and triangulating information to be an effective diplomat posted overseas.  This is particularly true when operating in country like China, whose politics and policies are keenly watched by countries around the world, including Singapore. Another challenge in the Foreign Service is having to adapt to regular rotations to different assignments, both in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ (MFA) headquarters in Singapore and postings abroad.  At times, this will require stepping beyond one’s comfort zone and overcoming steep learning curves.  That said, these challenges are not insurmountable especially with supportive teammates. At Beijing Mission and in my previous assignments, I have had the privilege of working with close-knit teams and learning from some of the brightest minds.  Amongst the many unique and diverse experiences offered, FSOs have the opportunity to facilitate high-level exchanges between national leaders, often behind closed doors, with significant implications for Singapore’s foreign relations.

What can you expect

FSOs safeguard and advance Singapore’s interests in many ways. We analyse global developments in order to provide recommendations to Singapore’s leaders and  shape Singapore’s foreign policy decisions; we advocate for Singapore when engaging directly with foreign officials, other diplomats, business professionals, academics, and journalists; and we champion Singapore’s positions at international fora.

Beyond foreign policy, another core element of an FSO’s duty is to assist overseas Singaporeans in distress. In times of crisis, every FSO’s effort is required to ensure that no overseas Singaporean is left behind. One example was when the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in 2020. FSOs in Beijing Mission and MFA HQ performed admirably to organise and execute repatriation flights for Singaporeans in China to return home.

Advice

Stay hungry for challenges. Stay curious for knowledge. Stay positive for growth.