SINGAPORE'S government will be open to constructive criticism and new ideas, but cannot shy away from taking tough decisions in the national interest, said President Halimah Yacob in her address at the opening of the first session of the 14th Parliament on Monday night. Read more at The Business Times.
The new term of government begins under the shadow of Covid-19, and in the face of Singapore's worst recession since independence, she said . Things have changed both abroad and at home, with Covid-19 revealing new threats and opportunities, while younger generations have new aspirations and expectations.
Job creation requires a strong and competitive economy, and Singapore must transform to remain a hub. This includes resuming air travel safely, strengthening digital connectivity and links to new markets, identifying new sources of growth such as food, healthcare, and supply chain management, and a focus on sustainability.
Third, more must be done to strengthen the sense of shared identity that enables Singapore to endure, while recognising that"larger forces are at play that test our solidarity", with social media amplifying disagreements. Finally, Singapore's politics must evolve, even as more differences in views are expected to surface.
"But the government, having been elected by the people, must also govern for all our people. It cannot shy away from taking difficult and tough decisions in the national interest, or shirk the duty of winning support for such decisions."
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