In a significant address at the People’s Action Party (PAP) conference on 24 November 2024, Deputy Secretary-General Lawrence Wong urged Singaporeans to remain united in the face of an increasingly complex and dangerous global landscape. The Prime Minister highlighted the need for a coherent voice representing Singapore’s interests on the world stage.
The Evolving Global Landscape
Wong underscored the upheaval in international relations, emphasising ongoing conflicts in regions like Europe and the Middle East, and tense US-China relations.
He stated, “The world is in flux … a new order is not yet in place.” This leadership vacuum, according to Wong, is likely to lead to increased instability and conflict.
Revitalising the Social Compact
Post-COVID-19, Wong expressed a need for the PAP to adapt its policies and approach to meet the evolving needs of Singaporeans. He praised the prevailing system’s fairness but stressed the importance of ensuring all citizens have equal opportunities to succeed. “Tomorrow must be better than today,” he asserted.
- Focus on renewing the social compact
- Forward Singapore initiative to review policy
- Maintain strong tripartite partnership with unions and employers
Working Towards Unity
Wong called for all Singaporeans, despite their differing views, to consider the broader national interest. “It’s already tough to be a small country for our voices to be heard. It will be even tougher if our voice is diffused and incoherent,” he stated.
He affirmed the government’s commitment to earn the trust of the people, vowing a steadfast approach to representing Singapore’s interests globally. “We must make friends with everyone, big and small, near and far,” Wong concluded, reinforcing that unity is crucial for navigating the turbulent future ahead.