Why Norway was the closer contest than Singapore

Which was the closer contest, Norway or Singapore?

Norway. At Singapore, firmer defence of essential ground might have exploited Japanese supply shortages, but command decisions prevented that test.

Norway is judged the closer contest in this comparison of two defeats. Singapore is treated as a more serious failure of command, especially over defending its reservoirs and other essential ground. The Japanese assault force was running short of food, water, and ammunition. Holding the prepared reservoir positions for another 48 hours is suggested as an opportunity that probably would have forced a Japanese withdrawal, although that outcome remains counterfactual.