GE2025: A good opportunity to debate issues rationally

As in previous general elections, the issue of immigrants and foreign workers will likely be a hot debate topic in the current election campaign.

- Albert Ng Ya Ken

The topic is a delicate and sensitive matter, even in non-election years.

Way back in 2004, Mr Daniel Lian, an economist at investment bank Morgan Stanley, suggested that Singapore should contemplate increasing the population — which was four million then — to six million to eight million over the long term.

He pointed out that Singapore's fertility rate was on the decline. He emphasised the benefits of allowing more prime-age working adults and their young families to come here.