Debates on issues like cost of living should focus on solutions: Vivian

Cost of living and economic concerns are understandably at the top of voters' minds this general election, but discussions should focus on solutions, not just debating points, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said on April 25.

- Christine Tan

Speaking to The Straits Times after a walkabout near Holland-Bukit Timah GRC, where he is an incumbent PAP MP, Dr Balakrishnan said these are real issues, but not unique to Singapore. Singapore needs to remain united and strong to navigate these challenges, he added.

Asked for his take on the points raised by opposition parties on the rising cost of living, the economy and housing during the rallies on April 24, Dr Balakrishnan said it was a "completely reasonable assessment" for parties to assume that these were issues of concern for voters.

But debates should focus on solutions, he said.

"We need to expand economic opportunities for Singapore companies and Singaporeans. We need not only to deal with the current uncertainties, but we also need to deal with the medium- to long-term challenges," said Dr Balakrishnan, adding that there are both risks and opportunities on the horizon.

The primary risk is that Singapore becomes uncompetitive or irrelevant to the world, said the minister, who has helmed the Foreign Affairs portfolio for almost a decade.