The Straits Times: What it means to be a trusted voice for Singapore in a changing world

ST has a role to play as a unifying force beyond its mission of being the chronicler of the Singapore Story. The following is an edited speech by Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong at The Straits Times' 180th anniversary dinner on July 11.

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I am delighted to join all of you this evening for a truly remarkable milestone—the 180th anniversary of The Straits Times.

Not many organisations endure for 180 years—let alone in the fast-changing media world. That The Straits Times has done so speaks volumes about its relevance, its resilience, and its remarkable ability to evolve.

It began in 1845 as an eight-page English weekly—then called The Straits Times and Journal of Commerce—catering to the European community in colonial Singapore.

Today it is the oldest English-language newspaper in East Asia—older than even global titles like The New York Times and the Daily Mail. It has built up a loyal readership across generations—in Singapore and around the world.

The Straits Times has chronicled every chapter of the Singapore Story. Through the colonial era. Through our battles against communism and communalism. Through Merger, Separation, and the struggles of early independence. And through our nation-building journey—reflecting both our achievements and the many challenges and trials we have overcome, from economic downturns to terrorist threats and pandemics.

As our newspaper of record, you have not only reported the events of our time. You have also captured the spirit of every generation—our hopes, our fears and our aspirations.

And you have never stood still. You have embraced change and innovation—experimenting with new formats and technologies, adopting digital tools and online platforms, and rethinking how stories are told.

And so The Straits Times has become more than just a newspaper. You are a trusted voice for Singapore—explaining the issues of the day, helping us make sense of a complex world, connecting Singaporeans to global developments, and carrying Singapore's perspectives beyond our shores.