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Online Citizen
4 days ago
- Politics
- Online Citizen
PM Wong issues 'Rules of Prudence', calls on PAP MPs to serve with honesty and incorruptibility
SINGAPORE: People's Action Party (PAP) Members of Parliament (MPs) must uphold the highest standards of integrity, honesty and incorruptibility, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in his first 'Rules of Prudence' letter since assuming office. In the eight-page letter released to the media on 29 May, Wong urged PAP MPs to take ownership of causes they care about and advocate for them with conviction and responsibility. While championing issues that reflect constituents' aspirations or wider national concerns, MPs must go beyond rhetoric, he said. 'You have to research the issues thoroughly, engage diverse stakeholders, understand the trade-offs, and present well-reasoned arguments for improving policies,' wrote Wong, stressing the importance of effective and informed advocacy. The issuance of the 'Rules of Prudence' has been a PAP tradition following each general election. This is Wong's first such letter since becoming Prime Minister and PAP secretary-general. The party recently won 87 out of 97 parliamentary seats with 65.57 per cent of the vote in the general election. While the core principles echoed those laid out in previous editions, particularly the one issued by Lee Hsien Loong in 2020, Wong's letter also highlighted current challenges and expectations, particularly in a more scrutinised and digitally connected political landscape. MPs urged to prepare thoroughly for key parliamentary debates Wong noted that MPs will first speak in Parliament during the upcoming debate on the President's Address, though the date of Parliament's reopening has yet to be announced. Other speaking opportunities include the Budget debate and debates on the budgets of various ministries. 'Make every opportunity count. Prepare your speeches carefully and deliver them clearly. This will help your audience and the media to grasp your points effectively,' Wong advised. He also emphasised the importance of engaging in robust but respectful parliamentary debate. MPs should be prepared for sharper questioning and must engage opposition members constructively. 'Address the issues and not the person,' he said, cautioning MPs against playing to the gallery. The 15th term of Parliament will feature 12 opposition MPs from the Workers' Party, including two Non-Constituency MPs. Wong addressed the evolving role of social media in political communication. Use social media wisely, not to disparage others, MPs told He urged MPs to embrace digital platforms to share their work and views, and to engage residents directly. However, he warned against using such platforms to disparage others. 'Social media has become a key channel for communication and a primary source of news for many. Use it well, but never to attack or undermine others,' he wrote. The letter reiterated key principles long held by the PAP, including clean government, proper conduct in Parliament, and separating business from politics. MPs were also reminded to maintain respectful relationships with public servants and to avoid exerting undue pressure or bypassing formal procedures. 'Never pressure [public servants] or seek to bypass proper processes,' Wong stated. Wong warns MPs against accepting gifts or favours He cautioned MPs against accepting gifts or favours that may compromise their impartiality. The letter specifically mentioned hampers, entertainment, dinners, and newly, concert tickets, as potential 'social lubricants' used to curry favour. 'You must be shrewd in assessing the motives of people who seek to get close to you. Both in conduct and perception, you must stand above any hint of favour or influence,' he wrote. Additional sections of the letter covered topics such as fundraising, financial prudence, and limits on holding directorships. Wong concluded by calling on PAP MPs to conduct themselves with modesty, dignity and decorum. 'In this internet age, you will always be in the public eye. You must win respect, not popularity, to stay the course,' he said.
Business Times
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Times
MPs must separate business and politics, be wary of conflicts of interest: PM Wong
[SINGAPORE] Members of Parliament (MPs) must separate business and politics, and be shrewd in assessing the motives of those who seek to get close to them, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in a customary letter to People's Action Party (PAP) MPs, dated May 28. The letter on 'Rules of Prudence' is traditionally sent by the prime minister to PAP MPs after each general election. PM Wong led the PAP to an improved vote share at the May 3 polls, his first electoral outing since taking the helm a year ago. In a letter largely similar to the one sent after GE2020, PM Wong called on MPs to separate their public political position from their private, professional or business interests. 'Be wary of potential conflicts between these interests and your public duties as MPs,' he urged. Those who are in business, occupy senior management positions in companies or are board directors should be 'especially vigilant', he said. They should not exploit their public position, close contacts with ministers and access to government for their personal interest or benefit of their employers. BT in your inbox Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox. Sign Up Sign Up If MPs employed by companies or industry associations make public statements in that capacity, they should be clear that they are not speaking as an MP. Nor should they use Parliamentary questions or speeches to lobby the government on behalf of their businesses or clients. MPs may relay feedback and speak freely to political officeholders, who will 'listen carefully to arguments on principles', PM Wong said. But these officeholders will not 'change individual decisions without very good reasons which they can justify publicly', he added. 'The government must always base decisions on the merits of the issues, and not yield to pressure from interested parties.' 'Stand above' favour or influence MPs will meet many people, noted PM Wong, including 'altruistic, public spirited individuals' who will help serve residents without wanting anything in return. 'But a few will seek to cultivate you to obtain benefits for themselves or their companies, to gain respectability by association with you, or to get you to influence ministries and statutory boards to make decisions in their favour,' he warned. He cited concert tickets among the 'countless social lubricants' – alongside gift hampers, dinners and entertainment – that people use to 'ingratiate themselves to MPs'. While PM Wong did not name examples, the letter comes after former transport minister S Iswaran was jailed for 12 months last October, upon pleading guilty to obtaining valuable items – including concert tickets – from Ong Beng Seng, the tycoon behind the Singapore Grand Prix. PM Wong urged MPs to be shrewd in assessing the motives of people who seek to get close to them. In his 2020 letter, then Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong told MPs to 'at all times be seen to be beyond the influence of gifts or favours'. In this year's letter, PM Wong said: 'Both in conduct and perception, you must stand above any hint of favour or influence.' Directorships Noting that MPs are often invited to serve on the boards of private and publicly listed companies, PM Wong said this shows that PAP MPs' integrity and experience are valued. MPs who are offered directorships must decide for themselves whether to accept, as the party is not in a position to vet or approve them, he said. 'Turn down directorships where you feel unable to make a significant contribution, or feel that the company is hoping to benefit from your status and connections as a PAP MP.' MPs must weigh the directorship's possible impact on their political life, he added. The company must understand that MPs will act in their private capacity and not lobby the government. The letter laid out what to consider before taking up a directorship, including how well the MP knows the company and its industry, their fellow directors, and the relationship between shareholders and the company. MPs must also examine if they face conflicts of interest and if so, whether they can manage them. 'If in any doubt, you should decline,' said PM Wong. Every MP must disclose to the prime minister, in confidence, information on directorships and related income, he added. This should be done by May 31 and submitted annually thereafter. Parliament and social media PM Wong's letter also addressed other expectations of PAP MPs, in areas such as their conduct in Parliament and on social media. In Parliament, he called on MPs to 'take ownership of causes or issues' that they feel strongly about and be ready for 'sharper questioning and debate'. In engaging the opposition, MPs should 'address the issues and not the person' and not get 'carried away playing to the gallery'. Meanwhile, social media has become an 'integral' part of daily life, as a key channel of communication and primary source of news for many. He urged MPs to embrace social media to share their views and engage residents. However, it is no substitute for face-to-face engagements, he added. 'You must establish personal bonds with your residents, and attend to their needs in person.' Party reputation The PAP has been able to retain the trust of Singaporeans because of its commitment to honesty and integrity, said PM Wong. 'As PAP MPs, your personal standing can contribute to, or detract from, this high standing of the party as a whole,' he said. Every MP must 'uphold the rigorous standards' of the PAP 'and do nothing to compromise them', he added. 'Never give cause for allegations that you are misusing your position, especially your access to ministers. That would discredit both you and the party.'
AsiaOne
4 days ago
- Politics
- AsiaOne
'Be humble in victory': PM Wong sends traditional 'Rules of Prudence' letter to PAP MPs after GE, Singapore News
People's Action Party (PAP) MPs must be humble in victory and serve Singaporeans responsibly, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Thursday (May 29). In an eight-page Rules of Prudence letter traditionally sent to all PAP MPs after the General Election, PM Wong said the ruling party has been given a "clear and strong mandate", and has the responsibility of addressing Singaporeans' concerns and ensuring the Republic "continues to thrive in an increasingly turbulent world". The PAP won 87 out of 97 seats in General Election 2025 and received 65.57% of the popular vote. [[nid:717651]] "Be humble in victory. Always remember that as MPs we are servants of the people, not their masters," he said. PM Wong also said that PAP MPs should express their views frankly, whether for or against Government policies. "Take ownership of causes or issues that you feel strongly about – whether they reflect the aspirations of your constituents or address broader national concerns. "Champion the issues, and do so with conviction. Effective advocacy goes beyond speaking up. You have to research the issues thoroughly, engage diverse stakeholders, understand the trade-offs, and present well-reasoned arguments for improving policies." PAP should also be ready for sharper questioning and debate in Parliament, he added, and MPs should be prepared to engage the Opposition, clarify their interventions and scrutinise their ideas. But he cautioned to exercise good judgement. "Put your points across with clarity and purpose, address the issues and not the person, and do not get carried away playing to the gallery." Noting that social media is a key communication and a primary source of news for many, PM Wong urged MPs to "make full use" of the different platforms to inform the public about their work, share their views, and engage residents directly. "Be honest, empathetic, and constructive in all your messages. Know your audience and be sensitive to how they feel. Do not use social media to attack or disparage others," he said. However, he added that social media it is not a substitute for face-to-face engagements, and MPs must establish personal bonds with residents and attend to their needs in person. 'Stand above any hint of favour or influence' In his letter, PM Wong reiterated that a clean and incorruptible government is one of PAP's most precious asset and stressed that every MP must uphold the rigorous standards the party has set. "Never give cause for allegations that you are misusing your position, especially your access to ministers. That would discredit both you and the party," he said. He warned that a few people will seek to obtain benefits or get MPs to influence ministries and statutory boards to make decisions in their favour, and offer gifts or favours. "You must be shrewd in assessing the motives of people who seek to get close to you. Both in conduct and perception, you must stand above any hint of favour or influence." In a Facebook post, PM Wong said integrity, honesty, and incorruptibility are the bedrock of the PAP, and such values have sustained the trust of Singaporeans. "As Members of Parliament, we are first and foremost servants of the people. We will listen with humility, act with conviction, and never break faith with Singaporeans." [[nid:718138]]
Online Citizen
7 days ago
- Politics
- Online Citizen
Former PAP MP allegedly takes veiled swipe at Halimah Yacob's Gaza remarks
SINGAPORE: A former Member of Parliament has seemingly taken a veiled swipe at former President Halimah Yacob over her recent remarks on the Gaza conflict, suggesting that past Singaporean presidents prioritised national unity over involvement in international affairs. On 25 May, Irene Ng Berry, a former People's Action Party (PAP) MP, posted on Facebook praising former presidents Yusof Ishak, Wee Kim Wee, S.R. Nathan, and Tony Tan for embodying multiracial and multireligious harmony without engaging in advocacy related to foreign conflicts. She noted that despite their strong personal beliefs, these leaders refrained from publicly championing causes linked to their faith or global events. 'Nobody expected them to speak up for their religious or racial groups, or to make public appeals on behalf of any group on external conflicts whatever the circumstances,' she wrote. Ng added that even if these leaders held strong views on international matters, their foremost duty was to unite the people. While her post did not name any individuals, the remarks appear to reference Mdm Halimah's recent comments on the Gaza crisis. While Ng's post did not name any individuals, the remarks appear to refer to Mdm Halimah's latest comments on the Gaza crisis. On 23 May, Mdm Halimah took to Facebook to condemn Israel's ongoing blockade of humanitarian aid into Gaza, calling it 'a humanitarian catastrophe which is getting worse daily.' She criticised the inadequate aid flow into the region, stating that only a 'trickle' of supplies was reaching civilians—far below what is required to prevent starvation and mass suffering. Citing United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, Mdm Halimah warned that 14,000 babies could die due to lack of food. She added that over 14,000 children had already been killed by the Israel Defense Force (IDF), calling it 'an annihilation of a future generation.' 'Keeping quiet makes us complicit in the violations of international humanitarian laws and encourages similar aggressions elsewhere,' she wrote. 'Our world is all the poorer for it. Uphold humanity.' Netizens Show Support for Halimah's Gaza Stance Ng's comments drew mixed reactions online. While some netizens agreed with her views, others strongly defended Mdm Halimah Yacob's decision to speak out on the Gaza crisis. One user questioned the propriety of Ng's remarks, asking, 'A former MP saying this about a former President?' Another netizen criticised Ng's approach, saying that if she intended to criticise someone, she should have the 'basic decency to name him or her' so the person could respond if they wished. Many netizens voiced support for Mdm Halimah, praising her for taking a principled stand on a humanitarian issue. One commenter wrote, 'Those with deep moral consciences speak up for what is wrong, even if it means making others uncomfortable.' Another commenter remarked that all of Singapore's former presidents—from President Yusof to President Nathan to President Wee—would likely have spoken out against the mass killing of tens of thousands of innocent people. Academic: Criticism of Halimah Is Troubling Associate Professor Walid J. Abdullah weighed in on the controversy, noting that while both Ng and Mdm Halimah have every right to express their views as private citizens, the former President's remarks deserve respectful consideration. He emphasised that while everyone is entitled to their opinion, it is concerning to see someone like Mdm Halimah, whose multiracial credentials are beyond question and who has given so much in public service, being criticised for prioritising community over country. He pointed out that her 'mistake' was simply caring about the deaths of innocent people and children, which he described as 'so awful, so unstatesman-like.' Abdullah also questioned why Mdm Halimah's stance was being scrutinised when other government ministers had made similar statements about the Gaza conflict. He noted that other officials had issued similar condemnations of civilian deaths, yet Mdm Halimah appeared to be the target of particular criticism. He expressed gratitude that a senior figure like Halimah had shown moral clarity at a time when such leadership is needed. He acknowledged the constraints that current government leaders face in issuing strong condemnations due to diplomatic considerations, but argued that former leaders, like Mdm Halimah, have fewer limitations. Abdullah contended that while political differences and disagreements on the best course of action for the country are valid, it crosses a line when people suggest that someone with a different viewpoint does not have the country's best interests at heart or is appealing to sectarian interests. 'If someone as distinguished as the former President can be subjected to such criticisms, the rest of us plebeians can take comfort when we encounter similar scenarios,' he said. Critical Spectator Accuses Halimah of Hypocrisy On 23 May, the Facebook page Critical Spectator, run by Polish national Michael Petraeus, accused Mdm Halimah of selective outrage. Petraeus claimed she had failed to comment on crises in Sudan, Yemen, Libya, or Myanmar, and went as far as to say Mdm Halimah was 'complicit in the starvation of 3 million children in Sudan' due to her silence on those matters. He took issue with Mdm Halimah's sentiment that 'keeping quiet makes us complicit,' arguing that she had not made similar statements about other humanitarian crises. Petraeus accused her and global media outlets of prioritising Palestinian suffering over other global tragedies, stating, 'Out of all of the victims of wars and disasters in this world, they deserve the least of our attention, support or even talk.' He further claimed the suffering in Gaza was self-inflicted due to Palestinian support for Hamas and contrasted it with victims in countries like Sudan and Yemen, whom he considered 'more clearly innocent.' In response, Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Associate Professor Faishal Ibrahim strongly criticised Critical Spectator's comments, saying they 'minimise the suffering of Palestinians' and risk fuelling division in Singapore's multicultural society. Faishal also defended Mdm Halimah's character and moral stance, calling her 'a deeply respected national figure' whose views reflect the compassion of many Singaporeans. 'While it is valid to draw attention to suffering in other parts of the world, we should reject any statement that minimises the suffering of Palestinians,' he said. He stressed the importance of unity and warned against divisive rhetoric from both local and foreign sources. 'In times like these, we need more understanding, not division,' he wrote. 'We must never allow dismissive or divisive rhetoric to erode the mutual respect and unity we have worked so hard to build.' Faishal reiterated that the Singapore government has consistently called for a humanitarian ceasefire, the protection of civilians, and support for the Palestinian right to a homeland. He noted that many in Singapore's Muslim community—and other communities—feel deeply about the crisis in Gaza and continue to express solidarity with those affected.
Online Citizen
26-05-2025
- Business
- Online Citizen
Lawrence Wong says GE2025 result reflects collective desire of Singaporeans as new Cabinet sworn in
SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's new Cabinet was officially sworn in at the Istana on the evening of 23 May, 2025. This is his first Cabinet since taking office in 2024, and it follows the People's Action Party's victory in the 2025 General Election. In his speech following the ceremony, Wong called the election result a clear demonstration of Singaporeans' collective desire for trustworthy leadership. He said it offered a mandate for the next phase of national development. 'The outcome leaves no room for doubt – no one in the world can question the resolve of Singaporeans or the government they have chosen,' he said. 'This is a clear advantage for Singapore, especially in the conduct of our foreign policy.' He added that the international community and investors would be paying close attention to the stability and direction affirmed by the electorate. Wong attributed his ability to form a robust Cabinet to the confidence shown by voters in the General Election, where the PAP secured 65.57 per cent of the vote. 'I have done my utmost to assemble the strongest team I could for Singapore,' he said. 'My new team comprises both experienced ministers who will provide steady hands and new ministers who will provide fresh perspectives and ideas.' He highlighted four key leaders tasked with overseeing Singapore's most critical policy areas: economy, national security, public services, and social policies. These roles are held by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, and coordinating ministers Shanmugam, Chan Chun Sing, and Ong Ye Kung. Securing Singapore's global position amid shifting geopolitical tides Addressing the broader geopolitical environment, Wong said his government begins its term in a world marked by instability. He spoke of a shifting global order where major powers are recalibrating strategies and competing for influence, noting that small nations such as Singapore risk being marginalised. Wong's first stated priority is to secure Singapore's position on the international stage by deepening ties with major powers – particularly the United States and China – while maintaining independence in policy. 'Where our interests align, we will work with them. Where they do not, we will stand firm and protect Singapore's security and sovereignty,' he said. He also pledged to forge new international friendships, including with countries in Africa and South America where Singapore's presence has traditionally been limited. Earlier in the day, Wong met with Santiago Peña, the President of Paraguay, marking the first-ever state visit by a Paraguayan leader to Singapore. 'In a world of shifting alliances, we will be a steady and constructive partner – one willing and able to contribute to peace and stability, advance dialogue and fraternity, and to support a rules-based international order,' he affirmed. Building a future-ready economy through renewed tripartite collaboration On the domestic front, Wong emphasised the need to reshape Singapore's economy in light of a changing global environment. He outlined plans to work with tripartite partners – government, unions, and employers – to develop a new economic blueprint that ensures long-term competitiveness and creates quality jobs for Singaporeans. He acknowledged that global growth was expected to slow, and said the government would collaborate with the National Trades Union Congress to support jobseekers and workers through the transition. Turning to social policy, Wong said strengthening Singapore's social compact would be central to his administration's agenda. He cautioned that in a world marked by growing inequality, a divided society would lack the resilience needed to face future challenges. Key areas of focus include strengthening social support, ensuring access to essential services such as education, healthcare and housing, and enabling more diverse pathways to success and fulfilment. He also stressed the need for stronger mutual understanding between people of different ethnic, religious and social backgrounds. Reinforcing the social compact to foster unity and resilience In concluding his speech, Wong reflected on Singapore's historical trajectory as a small nation that has repeatedly defied the odds. He said Singapore's endurance was not simply a result of good fortune, but of unity, conviction, and collective effort. 'As long as we continue to believe in ourselves, have faith in one another, and work together, we will endure. Singapore will endure. Be it SG100, or even beyond, there will still be Singaporeans – standing strong and free,' he said. Alongside Wong, most Cabinet ministers, senior ministers of state, and ministers of state also took their oaths of office on the same day. Their appointments came into effect from 23 May, 2025. The new Cabinet comprises 40 political office-holders, up from 37 in the previous term. The increase signals a broader renewal of governance under Wong's leadership. Among the updates is the retention of experienced ministers in key portfolios such as economic strategy and foreign affairs, ensuring policy continuity. The lineup includes 15 full ministers and two acting ministers, across the Prime Minister's Office and 16 ministries. Nine new political office-holders have joined the Cabinet, seven of whom are newly elected MPs from the recent General Election – a record number for any Cabinet reshuffle in recent years. Two senior parliamentary secretaries – Syed Harun Alhabsyi and Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim – are due to take office on 1 October, 2025, and 1 February, 2026, respectively. Wong's move to centralise leadership within four senior roles, including DPM Gan and the three coordinating ministers, has been interpreted as a consolidation of executive strength within the government.
