Well, Thailand didn't seem to get much flak when they got their
carrier, altho it hasn't been doing much the past few years. I
would say the political implications if singapore was to get a
small carrier would be manageable, especially if there is a
second-hand one available. One can always argue that we can use it
for humanitarian missions as such since carriers are essentially
multi-mission capable. Some carriers, such as the Invincible class,
can even act as floating hospitals.
However, i do agree with u, Joeblack, in that the biggest obstacle
is manpower and cost. I also agree with the fact that we have no
need for such a ship as yet. Besides, the creation of a carrier
task group is a huge undertaking requiring new doctrines,
procedures and equipment. In other words, it would be overkill. The
money can be better spent elsewhere.
My 0.5 cent worth. 
