In his first Chinese New Year address as Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong highlighted the importance of unity, resilience, and supporting families in a world marked by increasing challenges.
In his first Chinese New Year message, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong expressed optimism that many Singaporeans continue to prioritize marriage, parenthood, and family. He highlighted that the festive season presents an opportunity for Singapore to celebrate its diversity amidst a 'troubled and volatile world'.
PM Wong emphasized that a united Singapore serves as a 'beacon of safety, security and stability', urging Singaporeans to make extra efforts to engage and reach out to individuals from diverse racial and religious backgrounds. 'While we may hold differing viewpoints on matters of significance, we must not allow our differences to divide us,' he stated. 'Our diversity is a source of strength, and we must continuously seek ways to deepen mutual understanding and expand our shared spaces.' PM Wong painted a picture of an increasingly perilous world where terrorist groups exploit the conflict in the Middle East to advance their agendas and incite attacks. Earlier this month, the Internal Security Department (ISD) disclosed that three Singaporeans, whose self-radicalization was either triggered or accelerated by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, were planning to fight for militant groups in the Middle East. One of them expressed willingness to carry out attacks in Singapore. PM Wong stressed the importance for Singaporeans to be mentally prepared for the possibility of a terrorist attack within the nation. 'Should such an event occur, we must stand together as one united people, resolute and undivided,' he added. 'These challenges should not undermine the fabric of our society but instead strengthen our resolve to safeguard our harmony and way of life.'In his Chinese New Year message, PM Wong also expressed encouragement regarding the continued emphasis placed by many Singaporeans on marriage, parenthood, and family. Families form the foundation of society, he acknowledged, while recognizing that balancing work and family life has become increasingly challenging in today's fast-paced and competitive world. As Finance Minister, PM Wong reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting Singaporeans at every life stage, from nurturing young families to providing care for the elderly. 'We are also investing significantly in schools, particularly pre-schools, to ensure that every child, regardless of background, receives a strong start in life,' he stated. Government-supported programs like Healthier SG and Age Well SG will assist seniors in maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle while staying connected with their loved ones and community, PM Wong added.He acknowledged that many Singaporeans serve as caregivers for aging parents, young children, or family members with special needs. The government, he vowed, will explore ways to better support these 'unsung heroes' and recognize their invaluable role in strengthening family bonds. Last November, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) reiterated its call for mandatory paid caregiving leave and requested employers to offer greater flexibility in work arrangements. 'As we celebrate Chinese New Year, let us also remember our fellow Singaporeans who are facing difficult times,' PM Wong concluded in his message. He pledged that the government would continue to assist vulnerable families, providing them with better opportunities for their children. 'Building an inclusive society necessitates the collective effort of all of us. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, will bring us closer together,' he added
CHINESE NEW YEAR PRIME MINISTER LAWRENCE WONG UNITY RESILIENCE FAMILY SUPPORT GLOBAL TURMOIL TERRORISM SINGAPORE
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