Even as he noted that Singapore has emerged “stronger and more united” through “the test of a generation”—the Covid-19 pandemic—Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong nevertheless warned that the “road ahead will not be easy” due to the global situation.
“Around us, a storm is gathering. US-China relations are worsening, with intractable issues, deep suspicions, and limited engagement between them. This is unlikely to improve anytime soon. Furthermore, miscalculations or mishaps can easily make things much worse,” he said in his National Day Message.
The Prime Minister highlighted the threat that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has posed for the world and for Singapore, as well as how it affects regional security and the tensions between the United States and China, warning that “Singapore will be buffeted by intense rivalry and tensions in the region around us.”
PM Lee then made the call for unity, saying, “Staying united is key to Singapore’s survival – it is the only way to deal with challenges in an increasingly troubled world. We must look to our Total Defence, and maintain a strong and credible SAF and Home Team. We must also brace ourselves and be psychologically prepared that in the next decades, our region may not be as peaceful and stable as it has been thus far.”
He also outlined the challenges to the economy, a problem that is more immediate.
PM Lee assured the public that the government is doing “everything necessary” to help with rising costs of living, including support packages and targeted assistance programs. However, he pointed out that “the basic reality is that international economic conditions have shifted” and are unlikely to return to what they were before anytime soon.
“Singapore’s deeper response to this shift must be to transform our industry, upgrade our skills and raise our productivity. Then our wages can go up higher than inflation, and Singaporeans can earn more in real terms year by year,” he added.
Nevertheless, he went on to say that he had chosen to deliver his message, at Gardens by the Bay, which celebrates its tenth anniversary this year.
The Gardens, which are built on reclaimed land, are a symbol, he added, of Singaporeans daring to dream.
“We look and plan ahead not just for the next 5 or 10 years, but for the next 30 or 50 years and beyond,” said PM Lee.
He ended his speech by saying,
“We must never stop imagining and building the Singapore we want, even as we strengthen our guard against what can go wrong. COVID-19 will not be Singapore’s last crisis. More storms and turbulence lie ahead. But do not fear. As long as we stay united and resolute, we can keep our nation peaceful and secure, build a more prosperous economy, and forge an inclusive society that all of us can belong to and can be proud of, for many years to come.
Happy National Day!”
PM Lee’s full speech may be viewed here. /TISG