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The Star
24-05-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Govt will always put Singaporeans at the centre of all it does and ensure it's always a just society, says PM Wong
SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN): The newly formed Government will press on with realising its road map for a fairer and more just society, and will work closely with Singaporeans in shaping these plans, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has pledged. Besides moves to strengthen Singapore's social compact, it will also look beyond immediate concerns to prepare Singapore for the future, he said in a speech at the Istana following the swearing-in of his refreshed Cabinet. 'Together, as a team, we pledge to serve Singaporeans to the best of our abilities, with commitment and integrity, with sincerity and humility,' he said. He added: 'Our mission is clear: To always put Singaporeans at the centre of all we do, to listen to your concerns, and to respond decisively.' PM Wong said Forward Singapore – a blueprint for the next phase of Singapore's growth drawn up through consultations with over 200,000 citizens – is especially critical today, as a society torn by inequalities cannot be resilient in the face of a more turbulent world. That is why the Government will enhance the country's social support system to provide greater assurance to Singaporeans across all life stages, from early childhood to retirement. This means keeping essential services like education, healthcare and housing accessible and affordable, and strengthening support for seniors so they can live with dignity, purpose and fulfilment, he said. More diverse and flexible pathways will be created for Singaporeans to seek happiness, prosperity and progress, whether they are a student exploring career options, a mid-career worker seeking to upskill, or a senior who wishes to continue contributing, said PM Wong. 'Our aim is for every Singaporean to thrive and flourish on their own terms,' he said. The mutual understanding and respect between people of different ethnic, religious and social backgrounds will also be deepened to strengthen the bonds that unite Singaporeans, he added. He noted that Singaporeans did not allow issues of race and religion that surfaced during the general election to divide them. This showed how far society has come, but was also a reminder for the country not to take its harmony for granted. 'We will continue to guard these fault lines carefully, and redouble our efforts to build a society where everyone feels respected and valued, and knows they truly belong,' he said. Speaking in Malay, PM Wong said he had strengthened his team with the promotion and appointment of several new office-holders who are from the Malay community, and that the Government will continue to strengthen its relationship with the Malay/Muslim community. Looking further ahead, the Government will also accelerate Singapore's transition to cleaner energy, and adapt to the realities of climate change. Infrastructure will be transformed to create smarter, more connected and greener homes for all Singaporeans, and PM Wong gave the assurance that the city will be dynamic and vibrant, yet distinctly Singaporean – 'a great place to live, and one we are all proud to call home'. Above all, the Government will work shoulder to shoulder with all Singaporeans to write this next chapter of the nation's story, he said. This means continuing to engage Singaporeans from all walks of life to hear their hopes and concerns, and actively involving the people such that their voices are reflected in government policies, said PM Wong. PM Wong said in his Mandarin remarks that he and his team will henceforth ramp up their engagement with Singaporeans, with the aim of together achieving a common vision and goals. 'This is how my team and I will govern – in partnership with Singaporeans,' he said. 'Everyone will have a say in shaping our way forward and building our shared future.' A more open and engaged society will strengthen, not weaken, Singapore, he stressed. 'We are not afraid of differing views – we welcome constructive debates. They push us to think harder, plan better, and serve Singaporeans more effectively,' he said. 'But at the same time, we must always respect one another, and remember that even with our differences, we share more in common with each other.' While history has not been kind to small nations like Singapore, and the Republic has always been vulnerable, caught between the interests of greater powers, PM Wong noted that Singapore has defied the odds for 60 years. It has done so not just because of good luck, but because of Singaporeans' courage, conviction, and collective will as one people, he added. As long as the people continue to believe in themselves, have faith in one another, and work together, Singapore will endure, he added. 'So be it SG100, or even beyond, there will still be Singaporeans – standing strong and free,' he said. 'And not only will we survive – we will prevail.' The Prime Minister called on Singaporeans to once again muster the courage, imagination and new resolve to build a country that is open, inclusive and full of opportunities. 'Let us secure a brighter future for ourselves, our families and for generations to come,' he said. - The Straits Times/Asia News Network
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Govt will always put S'poreans at the centre of all it does, says PM Wong
SINGAPORE – The newly formed Government will press on with realising its road map for a fairer and more just society, and will work closely with Singaporeans in shaping these plans, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong pledged on May 23. Besides moves to strengthen Singapore's social compact, it will also look beyond immediate concerns to prepare Singapore for the future, he said in a speech at the Istana following the swearing-in of his refreshed Cabinet. 'Together, as a team, we pledge to serve Singaporeans to the best of our abilities, with commitment and integrity, with sincerity and humility,' he said. He added: 'Our mission is clear: To always put Singaporeans at the centre of all we do, to listen to your concerns, and to respond decisively.' PM Wong said Forward Singapore – a blueprint for the next phase of Singapore's growth drawn up through consultations with over 200,000 citizens – is especially critical today, as a society torn by inequalities cannot be resilient in the face of a more turbulent world. That is why the Government will enhance the country's social support system to provide greater assurance to Singaporeans across all life stages, from early childhood to retirement. This means keeping essential services like education, healthcare and housing accessible and affordable, and strengthening support for seniors so they can live with dignity, purpose and fulfilment, he said. More diverse and flexible pathways will be created for Singaporeans to seek happiness, prosperity and progress, whether they are a student exploring career options, a mid-career worker seeking to upskill, or a senior who wishes to continue contributing, said PM Wong. 'Our aim is for every Singaporean to thrive and flourish on their own terms,' he said. The mutual understanding and respect between people of different ethnic, religious and social backgrounds will also be deepened to strengthen the bonds that unite Singaporeans, he added. He noted that Singaporeans did not allow issues of race and religion that surfaced during the general election to divide them. This showed how far society has come, but was also a reminder for the country not to take its harmony for granted. 'We will continue to guard these fault lines carefully, and redouble our efforts to build a society where everyone feels respected and valued, and knows they truly belong,' he said. Speaking in Malay, PM Wong said he had strengthened his team with the promotion and appointment of several new office-holders who are from the Malay community, and that the Government will continue to strengthen its relationship with the Malay/Muslim community. Looking further ahead, the Government will also accelerate Singapore's transition to cleaner energy, and adapt to the realities of climate change. Infrastructure will be transformed to create smarter, more connected and greener homes for all Singaporeans, and PM Wong gave the assurance that the city will be dynamic and vibrant, yet distinctly Singaporean – 'a great place to live, and one we are all proud to call home'. Above all, the Government will work shoulder to shoulder with all Singaporeans to write this next chapter of the nation's story, he said. This means continuing to engage Singaporeans from all walks of life to hear their hopes and concerns, and actively involving the people such that their voices are reflected in government policies, said PM Wong. PM Wong said in his Mandarin remarks that he and his team will henceforth ramp up their engagement with Singaporeans, with the aim of together achieving a common vision and goals. 'This is how my team and I will govern – in partnership with Singaporeans,' he said. 'Everyone will have a say in shaping our way forward and building our shared future.' A more open and engaged society will strengthen, not weaken, Singapore, he stressed. 'We are not afraid of differing views – we welcome constructive debates. They push us to think harder, plan better, and serve Singaporeans more effectively,' he said. 'But at the same time, we must always respect one another, and remember that even with our differences, we share more in common with each other.' While history has not been kind to small nations like Singapore, and the Republic has always been vulnerable, caught between the interests of greater powers, PM Wong noted that Singapore has defied the odds for 60 years. It has done so not just because of good luck, but because of Singaporeans' courage, conviction, and collective will as one people, he added. As long as the people continue to believe in themselves, have faith in one another, and work together, Singapore will endure, he added. 'So be it SG100, or even beyond, there will still be Singaporeans – standing strong and free,' he said. 'And not only will we survive – we will prevail.' The Prime Minister called on Singaporeans to once again muster the courage, imagination and new resolve to build a country that is open, inclusive and full of opportunities. 'Let us secure a brighter future for ourselves, our families and for generations to come,' he said. Chin Soo Fang is senior correspondent at The Straits Times covering topics such as community, politics, social issues, consumer, culture and heritage. Source: The Straits Times © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction Discover how to enjoy other premium articles here
Straits Times
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Straits Times
Govt will always put S'poreans at the centre of all it does, says PM Wong
PM Lawrence Wong said the newly-formed Government will also look beyond immediate concerns to prepare Singapore for the future. ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH Govt will always put S'poreans at the centre of all it does, says PM Wong SINGAPORE - The newly-formed Government will press on with realising its roadmap for a fairer and more just society, and will work closely with Singaporeans in shaping these plans, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong pledged on May 23. Besides moves to strengthen Singapore's social compact, it will also look beyond immediate concerns to prepare Singapore for the future, he said in a speech at the Istana following the swearing-in of his refreshed Cabinet. 'Together, as a team, we pledge to serve Singaporeans to the best of our abilities , with commitment and integrity, with sincerity and humility,' he said. He added: 'Our mission is clear: to always put Singaporeans at the centre of all we do, to listen to your concerns, and to respond decisively.' PM Wong said Forward Singapore - a blueprint for the next phase of Singapore's growth drawn up through consultations with over 200,000 citizens - is especially critical today, as a society torn by inequalities cannot be resilient in the face of a more turbulent world. That is why the Government will enhance the country's social support system to provide greater assurance to Singaporeans across all life stages, from early childhood to retirement. This means keeping essential services like education, healthcare and housing accessible and affordable, and strengthening support for seniors so they can live with dignity, purpose and fulfilment, he said. More diverse and flexible pathways will be created for Singaporeans to seek happiness, prosperity and progress, whether they are a student exploring career options, a mid-career worker seeking to upskill, or a senior who wishes to continue contributing, said PM Wong. 'Our aim is for every Singaporean to thrive and flourish on their own terms,' he said. The mutual understanding and respect between people of different ethnic, religious and social backgrounds will also be deepened to strengthen the bonds that unite Singaporeans, he added. He noted that Singaporeans did not allow issues of race and religion that surfaced during the general election to divide them. This showed how far society has come, but was also a reminder for the country not to take its harmony for granted. 'We will continue to guard these fault lines carefully, and redouble our efforts to build a society where everyone feels respected and valued, and knows they truly belong,' he said. Speaking in Malay, PM Wong said he had strengthened his team with the promotion and appointment of several new office-holders who are from the Malay community, and that the Government will continue to strengthen its relationship with the Malay/Muslim community. Looking further ahead, the Government will also accelerate Singapore's transition to cleaner energy, and adapt to the realities of climate change. Infrastructure will be transformed to create smarter, more connected and greener homes for all Singaporeans, and PM Wong assured that the city will be dynamic and vibrant, yet distinctly Singaporean - 'a great place to live, and one we are all proud to call home'. Above all, the Government will work shoulder to shoulder with all Singaporeans to write this next chapter of the nation's story, he said. This means continuing to engage Singaporeans from all walks of life to hear their hopes and concerns, and actively involving the people such that their voices are reflected in government policies, said PM Wong. PM Wong said in his Mandarin remarks that him and his team will henceforth ramp up their engagements with Singaporeans, with the aim of together achieving a common vision and goals. 'This is how my team and I will govern – in partnership with Singaporeans,' he said. 'Everyone will have a say in shaping our way forward and building our shared future.' A more open and engaged society will strengthen, not weaken, Singapore, he stressed. 'We are not afraid of differing views – we welcome constructive debates,' he said. 'They push us to think harder, plan better, and serve Singaporeans more effectively.' But there must always be respect for one another, and that despite any differences Singaporeans have more in common with each other, he added. Remembering this will make Singapore a stronger, more resilient and more united nation, said PM Wong. While history has not been kind to small nations like Singapore, and the Republic has always been vulnerable, caught between the interests of greater powers, he noted that Singapore has defied the odds for 60 years. It has done so not just because of good luck, but because of Singaporeans' courage, conviction, and collective will as one people, he added. As long as the people continue to believe in themselves, have faith in one another, and work together, Singapore will endure, he added. 'So be it SG100, or even beyond, there will still be Singaporeans – standing strong and free,' he said. 'And not only will we survive – we will prevail.' The prime minister called on Singaporeans to once again muster the courage, imagination and new resolve to build a country that is open, inclusive and full of opportunities. 'Let us secure a brighter future for ourselves, our families and for generations to come,' he said. Chin Soo Fang is senior correspondent at The Straits Times covering topics such as community, politics, social issues, consumer, culture and heritage. More on this Topic 5 key takeaways from PM Wong's Cabinet reshuffle More on this Topic Continuity and change as experienced and fresh faces come together in PM Wong's new Cabinet Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
Straits Times
23-05-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
New Govt's top priority: To secure S'pore an assured place in a changed world, says PM Wong
New Govt's top priority: To secure S'pore an assured place in a changed world, says PM Wong SINGAPORE – The new Government's first priority is to secure for Singapore an assured place in a changed world, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. With major world powers reassessing strategies and shifting positions to gain the upper hand, competition is intensifying and smaller nations risk being caught in the crossfire, or being cut out of the conversation altogether, he warned. 'Singapore will not stand still. We cannot afford to be passive. We must be clear-eyed, proactive and adapt nimbly to the shifting dynamics,' he said on May 23, at the swearing-in ceremony of his new Cabinet at the Istana. In a world that is more uncertain and unpredictable than before, the conditions that once underpinned success are shifting, he said. 'The rules-based international order, which formed the foundation for peace, security and free trade, is fraying. 'Multilateral cooperation is giving way to a tangle of bilateral and transactional deals, where might often makes right.' He added: 'Our goal is not just to navigate this uncertain world, but to help shape it for the better – by working with like-minded partners, upholding shared principles and values, so that small nations too have a place under the sun.' This will be done on several fronts. The Government will deepen Singapore's relations with the major powers, especially the United States and China, he said. 'We will stay friends with both, without being caught in their rivalry. We will engage openly and honestly with each, in a consistent and principled manner. 'Where our interests align, we will work with them. Where they do not, we will stand firm and protect Singapore's security and sovereignty.' The Republic will also strengthen its ties with friends near and far, while seeking new ones in parts of the world such as Africa and South America where it does not yet have much presence, PM Wong added. 'In a world of shifting alliances, we will be a steady and constructive partner – one willing and able to contribute to peace and stability, to advance dialogue and fraternity, and support a rules-based global order.' The Government will also have to steer the economy through the challenges ahead, and update its economic strategies for the new landscape. This will include creating good jobs and remaining competitive, as well as helping businesses and households. The Government will work with tripartite partners to development a new economic blueprint for the next phase, said PM Wong. 'We will work closely with NTUC to support our workers and jobseekers, so that every Singaporean who is prepared to work is able to secure a job and progress in their careers,' he added. In addition, the Government will press on with the Forward Singapore agenda, to refresh and strengthen the social compact. Beyond immediate concerns, the Government will also prepare Singapore for the future. It will accelerate the nation's transition to cleaner energy and create smarter, more connected and greener homes for all Singaporeans, he said. 'Above all, we will work shoulder to shoulder with all Singaporeans to write this next chapter of our nation's story,' said PM Wong. The new Government will continue to engage Singaporeans from all walks of life, and actively involve them in creating and implementing solutions. 'This is how my team and I will govern – in partnership with Singaporeans. Everyone will have a say in shaping our way forward and building our shared future,' he said. The team is not afraid of differing views – it welcomes constructive debates that will push it to think harder, plan better and serve Singaporeans more effectively, he added. 'But at the same time, we must always respect one another, and remember that even with our differences, we share more in common with each other.' The election outcome reflects the collective desire of Singaporeans, said PM Wong. 'In these uncertain times, you understood what was at stake – our vulnerability and our future,' he said. 'You chose leaders you could trust, a Government you could rely on, and a steady course for our nation's next phase of development.' PM Wong had on May 21 announced a slew of changes to the Government's top leadership, bringing in fresh faces who will have fresh perspectives and ideas, as well as having experienced ministers with steady hands. It was his first big overhaul of the Cabinet since assuming the role of head of Government in May 2024, and after he had led the ruling People's Action Party to a convincing majority at the May 3 polls, with 65.57 per cent of the vote. The international community and investors would have taken note of the election outcomes, he said. 'They would see a nation that is united – standing firmly behind its leaders, and placing confidence in a Government with the strength and security to secure Singapore's place in an unpredictable world.' 'The outcome leaves no room for doubt – no one in the world can question the resolve of Singaporeans and the Government they have chosen,' he said. 'This is a clear advantage for Singapore, especially in the conduct of our foreign policy.' President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who presided over the ceremony, also spoke about the global challenges ahead. Small states like Singapore will feel the weight of the geopolitical cross-currents more than most countries, he said. 'Our well-being has always depended on a stable, rules-based international order. That order is unravelling, forcing us to adapt and find new ways to remain in control of our destiny, and hold together as a people with our values intact,' he said. 'There is no telling whether this global disorder will eventually subside. But there is no returning to the world we knew over our first 60 years of nationhood.' PM Wong noted that history has not been kind to small nations like Singapore. 'We have always been vulnerable, caught between the interests of greater powers. Yet for 60 years, Singapore has defied the odds,' he said. This was not due to good luck, but Singaporeans' courage, conviction and collective will, he stressed. 'As long as we continue to believe in ourselves, have faith in one another, and work together, we will endure. 'Singapore will endure. So be it SG100, or even beyond, there will still be Singaporeans – standing strong and free,' said PM Wong. 'And not only will we survive – we will prevail.' Goh Yan Han is political correspondent at The Straits Times. She writes Unpacked, a weekly newsletter on Singapore politics and policy. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
Online Citizen
20-05-2025
- Business
- Online Citizen
‘Per person, not per household': Reddit user critiques CDC voucher scheme as inequitable
SINGAPORE: As the latest S$500 Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers were rolled out to Singaporean households, a Reddit user's post questioning the fairness of the distribution model sparked a discussion: Should the vouchers be allocated per person instead of per household? Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced the new tranche of CDC vouchers during a community event at Nee Soon South Community Club on 13 May 2025. He reiterated that the vouchers are part of a broader, ongoing Government initiative to help Singaporeans cope with rising costs. 'This is not a one-off exercise,' he said. 'The Government will provide the help for as long as it is needed.' Wong acknowledged concerns about sustainability but assured the public that Singapore's fiscal strategy remains sound. He attributed the country's current financial strength to earlier decisions to raise taxes, stating that this placed Singapore in a good position to fund such support measures. He added that the CDC vouchers are part of the evolving 'Forward Singapore' roadmap and are not meant to be a standalone solution. Each household is now entitled to S$500 worth of CDC vouchers—split evenly between heartland merchants and hawkers (S$250) and participating supermarkets (S$250). The vouchers are valid until 31 December 2025, with another S$300 due in January 2026, bringing the total to S$800 for the financial year. Redditor u/Dizzy_Boysenberry499 took to r/singapore on Wednesday (14 May) and expressed concerns over the household-based distribution of vouchers. 'I understand that there are many criticisms about CDC vouchers, some more valid than others,' they wrote. 'I can accept that CDC vouchers are in voucher form and not cash to ensure spending supports legitimate household expenses and local businesses. But what I cannot agree with is giving them per household instead of per person.' The user highlighted that larger households are effectively penalised, as the per-capita value of vouchers decreases with more occupants. 'Imagine if a household has five people living at one address—they're being punished because they get less voucher support per capita.' They also pointed out contradictions in Government messaging. 'Isn't the Government trying to encourage having children? I understand that a child under 18 may not need as much as an adult, but maybe we could have half the value for under-18s and full value for adults.' The same commenter noted that multigenerational households who care for elderly parents are also disadvantaged. 'The Government wants to encourage people to care for their parents instead of putting them in old folks' homes. Why are we punishing people who are doing so?' Public Echoes Calls for Per-Capita Distribution Many netizens supported the idea that vouchers should be distributed per person, arguing that it doesn't make sense for households with more people to receive the same amount as those with fewer occupants. One user commented, 'Agree—bigger families should have a higher quantum, seeing that the primary purpose of this is to aid in cost of living (COL).' Some suggested specific figures, 'If we were to give individual vouchers, each person should get at least S$200.' Others were more cynical, suggesting that the per-household model was chosen to reduce Government expenditure. 'Govt gives per household so they can save money, but still claim credit for giving money to help everyone in the country.' Criticism of CDC Vouchers as 'Superficial Fix' A number of commenters questioned the effectiveness of CDC vouchers altogether, describing them as superficial or symbolic solutions that do little to resolve the deeper economic pressures. One user remarked that vouchers are not even comparable to a band-aid, as at least a band-aid can stop bleeding and prevent infection. Instead, they likened CDC vouchers to cheap alcohol—offering only temporary relief, like getting high and drunk for a night to forget the pain. But by the next morning, they said, the wound remains—and is still bleeding. Others criticised the reactive nature of Government aid. 'Most of these cost-of-living help schemes are like virus patch updates. You find a symptom, you fix the symptom. There's not much anticipation or effort to go to the root cause.' Another user commented, 'Many tranches of CDC vouchers just sound absurd. It's like managing symptoms instead of solving the actual problem.' One suggested that addressing broader issues like business rental costs would be more effective. 'How about solving the out-of-control rental costs affecting store owners that make everything unaffordable?' Calls for Systemic Change A particularly pointed criticism questioned the decision to raise the Goods and Services Tax (GST) while simultaneously issuing vouchers. 'Why raise the GST, then give out vouchers? It's like killing someone and apologising afterwards.' Others proposed systemic changes, such as linking CDC funding to broader wage reforms. One suggestion was to scrap the voucher scheme entirely and instead mandate a minimum wage increase that keeps pace with inflation. The commenter argued that the funds used for CDC vouchers could be redirected to subsidise companies that hire local workers, have local leadership, and are based in Singapore. If wages rose in line with inflation, they added, there would be far less need for such temporary assistance. One user remarked that while many people likely support the CDC voucher scheme in general, the more controversial question is whether most Singaporeans actually need the vouchers at all. They suggested that a more permanent solution to cost-of-living (COL) issues would be preferable. Another user questioned the long-term sustainability of the CDC voucher scheme, noting that calls for systemic reforms are often met with concerns about depleting national reserves—yet similar scrutiny isn't applied to recurring voucher handouts. They also pointed out that the vouchers are not well-targeted, as all households receive the same amount regardless of size or income. This uniform distribution, they argued, may be just as much a case of 'raiding the reserves' as any other proposed reform.
