SINGAPOREANS CAN stand firm despite this global storm.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong made this clear at the Swearing-in Ceremony of Singapore’s new Cabinet this past week (23 May).
The Cabinet will work with Singaporeans to solve problems, overcome challenges and take Singapore forward.
“Our mission is clear: to always put Singaporeans at the centre of all we do, to listen to your concerns, and to respond decisively,” said PM Wong.
The Cabinet’s top priority is to secure Singapore’s place in this changed world of great power rivalry, trade tariffs and hot wars.
“We will deepen our relations with the major powers, especially America and China. We will stay friends with both, without being caught in their rivalry,” outlined PM Wong. “We will engage openly and honestly with each, in a consistent and principled manner.”
“Where our interests align, we will work with them. Where they do not, we will stand firm and protect Singapore’s security and sovereignty,” he added.
The Cabinet will also strengthen existing ties with other countries. It will seek new, productive ones in countries like Africa and South America, ensuring that Singapore remains trusted globally,
“Our goal is not just to navigate this uncertain world, but to help shape it for the better,” said PM Wong. “So that small nations too have a place under the sun.”
Economic, education, housing and healthcare support
Domestically, the Cabinet will steer Singapore’s economy for the challenges ahead. It will continue helping Singapore’s businesses and households, while supporting workers and jobseekers.
Social support is an additional priority. The Cabinet will keep essential services like education, healthcare and housing accessible and affordable for Singaporeans across all our life stages.
“Seeking an ever fairer and just society is the right thing to do,” said PM Wong. “A society torn by inequalities cannot possibly stand resilient in the face of a more turbulent world.”
Upholding racial and religious harmony, accelerating the green transition and developing impactful solutions with Singaporeans are additional focal points for the Cabinet.
“Everyone will have a say in shaping our way forward and building our shared future,” said PM Wong. “A more open and engaged society will strengthen, not weaken, Singapore.”
“A clear advantage for Singapore”
Ministers in the new Cabinet got to work quickly.
“Sworn in as Coordinating Minister for Public Services and Defence Minister this evening,” said Minister Chan Chun Sing. “At MINDEF, my new team will build on the good work of Dr Ng Eng Hen to secure peace for Singapore, so that every generation can have the space to do better than the one before. It is a changed world and we have our work cut out for us.”
The Cabinet also features nine new political office holders, with PM Wong following through his intentions to start shaping the next generation of Singapore’s leaders.
“Honoured to be sworn in as Acting Minister for Transport and Senior Minister of State for Finance. I am grateful for the trust placed in me to carry these major responsibilities,” said Acting Minister Jeffrey Siow, who is one of these new office holders.
“I look forward to working closely with the teams at the two Ministries, and to build on the strong foundation to better the lives of Singaporeans,” he continued.
PM Wong paid tribute to Singaporeans for their strong mandate at the most recent General Elections. With the renewed trust of Singaporeans, the new leadership has been given the popular support to make better, more impactful policies at home.
Abroad, foreign governments and investors will be cheered by the position of stability and continuity that this Cabinet operates from, which reflects the will of Singaporeans.
“This is a clear advantage for Singapore, especially in the conduct of our foreign policy,” said PM Wong.
“My government will use our mandate to serve all Singaporeans – regardless of race, language, religion, or political preference. This is our solemn duty,” he continued.
“We will work tirelessly to improve the lives of every Singaporean. We will deliver on our promises.”
