“THIS IS my promise to all Singaporeans: I will serve you with all my heart. I will never settle for the status quo. I will always seek better ways to make tomorrow better than today,” said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during his swearing-in speech as Singapore’s new leader (15 May).
Drawing from his experiences in the civil service, various Ministries and from leading Singapore’s successful response to the COVID-19 pandemic, PM Wong’s speech was a firm statement of purpose, reminding us how we can take our country forward, as long as we’re united.
“The way we dealt with the [COVID-19] crisis — together, saving lives and livelihoods — deepened our social capital, and made us a better and stronger people,” said PM Wong at his swearing-in.
“COVID was a baptism of fire for me and my team,” he added. “It reinforced my conviction that our exceptional performance as a nation lies not in any one person or any single institution, but in how well we can work together as one Team Singapore.”
Source: PMO
This is an era of Great Power competition. These rivalries have the potential to sweep small countries like Singapore into chaotic currents. Trade protectionism will challenge us economically. Socially, external influences will attempt to unravel our diverse multiracial fabric.
In spite of these external challenges, PM Wong reiterated his optimism for Singapore’s future.
“Time and again, we have proved the doubters wrong. And we will do so again.” said PM Wong. “As Singaporeans, we all know what it means to exceed expectations — to go beyond what others think we are capable of, or even what we ourselves thought we could do.”
Climate Action and Mental Health Groups from #refreshPAP
In June, our Party launched two new groups as part of this journey forward.
The Mental Health Group, led by Senior Minister of State for Health Janil Puthucheary, and the Climate Action Group, led by Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment Koh Poh Koon will bring Singaporeans together to tackle these challenges.
“These are two key issues that are also of national importance, and of priority for the PAP Government,” said PM Wong when unveiling these two Groups at the #refreshPAP event on 8 June.
Moreover, every Singaporean can make his or her voice heard in these Groups.
“If you have views or ideas around these issues, come and join the Groups,” added PM Wong. “We will engage you, involve you in our deliberations and discussions, and through these interactions, the Groups will seek to better inform and shape the PAP Government’s policies and plans in these two areas.”
Specifically, the Mental Health Group also invites Singaporeans to take part in campaigns and activities which contribute to mental wellness.
The Climate Action Group, meanwhile, gives leaders from different fields a common platform to brainstorm sustainability solutions. These will help Singapore achieve its climate goals.
The PAP is making common cause with Singaporeans, addressing the issues that concern Singaporeans — refreshing our Party to take Singapore forward.
