PM Wong calls on Singaporeans to shape nation's future together

• Shift to a broader, more inclusive meritocracy • Keep the economy competitive and vibrant • Strengthen social safety nets, sense of solidarity

- Anjali Raguraman Correspondent

Singaporeans can expect more to be done to enhance social mobility, build a vibrant economy and strengthen solidarity, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in his maiden speech in the 15th Parliament on Sept 24.

To the young, he pledged: “We will not let you down. We are building Singapore for you, and with you.”

He called on all Singaporeans to connect, collaborate and “shape our future together” so that the miracle of the last 60 years can continue, even as the external environment is more contested, unpredictable and challenging for small states.

In a wide-ranging speech that spanned around 40 minutes, PM Wong also pledged to strengthen safety nets and deepen a sense of solidarity among Singaporeans as he outlined the broad strokes of the Republic’s path forward.

Amid stronger headwinds, a maturing economy and an ageing population, he noted, many young people worry that they may not do better than their parents.

They are also riddled with anxieties, stemming from worries about society becoming more stratified, where the rich are pulling ahead while others struggle to keep up.

PM Wong said to Singapore’s youth: “We will strive to create more fulfilling lives - for you. And not just for a few among you, but for all of you.”

The Government will do more to keep social mobility alive so that the “escalator keeps moving”, and everyone has the opportunity to realise their full potential, he said.

From early childhood to the workplace to retirement, the Prime Minister outlined the various ways in which the Government strives to achieve this.

First, more will be done for children in the early years of life.

Early childhood initiative KidStart will be expanded, and support programmes for lower-income families like ComLink+ will be enhanced so that more families can get help earlier and more children can gain a stronger footing in life.