As Secretary-General (SG) Lee Hsien Loong noted during the Party Awards and Convention on Sunday (Nov 5), leadership transition for any country is always tricky. But in announcing his intentions to hand over the reins to Deputy Secretary General (DSG) Lawrence Wong and the fourth generation (4G) team, SG Lee has ushered in a new era of change for the PAP. One that comes at an opportune time for the Party to refresh its engagement with young Singaporeans.
Refreshing the PAP for a new demographic
Looking at the turnout at the recent Pink Dot and SG Climate Rally, it is clear that our youths care deeply about their society and the world at large. Besides bread-and-butter issues, Generation Z wants their views heard in areas as diverse as climate change, mental wellness and social inclusivity.
Therefore, can the PAP represent these voices sufficiently and appeal to young voters with left-leaning beliefs? The answer is yes, and also why a renewed PAP leadership matters.
At fifty, DSG Wong is officially a ‘young senior’.
While there is fear his age might make it difficult for him to empathise with the challenges young Singaporeans face, central to his appeal is an understanding of what they seek – social justice alongside economic aspirations. Together, these ideas form the crux of the Forward SG exercise that will refresh our social compact and build a fairer and more inclusive society for all.
More importantly, PAP policies have evolved over the years, and they will continue to do so as we listen to what our youths have to say. From repealing Section 377A to full subject-based banding in secondary schools and a push for flexible work arrangements (FWA), these are just some examples of policy reforms that consider the diverse needs and aspirations of younger Singaporeans.
In addition, the PAP is also the only Party with a comprehensive action plan to combat climate change and secure a sustainable future. As Comrade Chua Wei-Shan, Organising Secretary of Young PAP (YP) shared during the Convention, “We are grateful for the SG Green Plan, which reinforces the notion that our youth voices are not only heard but taken seriously and acted upon.”
With a barrage of innovative ideas, many young Singaporeans are eager to drive change. It is in this spirit that the PAP look to be the Party of aspiration for young voters. One that will shore up its efforts to engage our youths and develop policies that address their needs.
“I prefer to start by listening, hearing a diverse range of perspectives and views, and staying open to different ideas,” said DSG Wong as he shared how he intends to serve and lead the nation.
And in doing so, the PAP is one step closer towards building a fairer and more sustainable future, one that would empower the next generation to have a home, start a family and pursue their dreams.
Photo Source: MCCY/ National Youth Council/ Lawrence Wong via Facebook
