Negative public sentiment does not immediately translate to worsening bilateral ties as the US remains an important partner, experts say
4-MIN READ4-MIN ListenJean IauPublished: 5:00pm, 15 Apr 2026In a rare public protest in Singapore, hundreds gathered in Hong Lim Park over the weekend to denounce the “US war machine”. They brandished placards and banners, including one with horns drawn on US presidents past and present captioned: “This is what terrorists look like.”The demonstration, which required organisers to get permission from the authorities, came as public sentiment in the region sours against Washington. Observers attribute this to the perception that the US has become destabilising and unreliable in recent years.
Brand America has taken a significant hit under Trump 2.0Steven Okun, APAC Advisor chief executive“Brand America has taken a significant hit under Trump 2.0,” said Steven Okun, chief executive of APAC Advisor.
“Tariffs, excessive immigration enforcement, diminished support for the global rules-based order, and now the economic crisis stemming from the US’ unilateral attack on Iran have all worked to lessen the US’ standing in the world,” added Okun, a former chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore.
