Amid cross straits tension, S'poreans in Taiwan say life is 'as per normal' but some worry about further escalation

Mr Todd Tok, 39, first moved to Taiwan seven years ago for his graduate studies and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Art Theory and Creation at Tainan National University of the Arts.

But despite the deterioration of relations between China and Taiwan following United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island on Aug 2, he is not overly perturbed.

When asked if he would leave Taiwan, Mr Tok said he would only do so if the situation becomes violent.

“Currently I’ve made strong bonds with the Taiwanese here… This place has become a home to me and I don't think I am able to leave just like that.” 

In the wake of Mrs Pelosi's visit, China has launched several acts of retaliation such as trade curbs on Taiwan and military drills near the island.

However, a majority of Singaporeans based in Taiwan whom TODAY spoke to said they were not overly concerned about the cross straits tension.

Similarly, 51-year-old Dorin Poh, who has been living in Taipei for 20 years, said in Mandarin: “I’m not that worried. It might seem worrying when you read the news but to me I feel the impact will be greater for those doing business here.”