<p>Singapore doesn’t just have the best passport in Asia. By some metrics, it has the best passport in the world. What does that really mean though?</p><p>Singaporeans can travel to 193 countries without a visa. Chinese passport holders, in contrast, can travel to just over 80 countries visa-free. In fact, the top three countries with the strongest passport are all in Asia: Singapore, Japan, and South Korea. </p><p>How did these countries rise to the top, and remain there for almost two decades? What are the material benefits - and trappings - for the passport holders? And what does a strong passport say about how the country practices diplomacy?</p><p>In this Asia Specific podcast, host Mariko Oi, who holds a Japanese passport, chats to BBC senior journalist Derek Cai, a Singaporean, and BBC Indonesia’s Famega Syavira, whose passport ranks 68th on the list.</p><p>Asia Pacific, unpacked by those who know it best. Bringing you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends.</p><p>Hear Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people.</p><p>Whether it is the latest on trade between the US and China, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy, we find out what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter.</p><p>Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi, alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes twice a week. Episodes of Asia Specific are also available on YouTube here: https://bit.ly/4iJyeVt</p><p>Get in touch: [email protected]</p>