This decision restricts the freedom of speech and expression. The court lays emphasis on the damages claimed by the plaintiff, as well as on the reputation of Loong as the political leader of Singapore, and overriding the freedom of speech and expression of the defendant in a case otherwise made against the defendant. Such a reconsideration, resulting in a return to historical standards of the common law of libel, would be at odds with current international standards, which require public officials to tolerate a higher level of criticism on issues of public importance, and overturning the standard could have a substantial chilling effect on public discourse.
The decision establishes a binding or persuasive precedent within its jurisdiction.