4 minute read
10 highlights from PM Wong's swearing-in speech
Lawrence Wong was sworn in as Prime Minister on 15 May 2024 at the Istana. Here is what Singaporeans can expect going forward.
1. Renewing the political team
“One of my key priorities is to identify and persuade younger Singaporeans — men and women in their 30s and 40s — to join our team. So, I call out tonight to all my fellow citizens: Help me to provide Singaporeans with the government they deserve. Let us make a difference and serve our nation together.”
2. PM Wong’s team will "lead in our own way"
“My generation’s story is the story of independent Singapore. Our lives are testimony to the values that forged our nation: Incorruptibility, meritocracy, multiracialism, justice, and equality.”
“We ourselves are the beneficiaries of the imaginative policies of our founding fathers, pursued resolutely and patiently over decades.”
“Shaped by these experiences, our leadership style will differ from that of previous generations.”
“We will lead in our own way. We will continue to think boldly and to think far… and the best chapters of our Singapore story lie ahead.”
3. Supporting unity — not division
“When issues arise between communities — and from time to time, they will — we do not accentuate our differences. Instead, we accept them.”
“We seek pragmatic compromises and find as much common ground as possible. We do so always in an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust.”
4. Refreshing the Singapore dream
“We listened to and spoke with many of you; we distilled your aspirations into a shared vision for our future.”
“Forward Singapore represents the ambitions of our generation. It expresses our resolve to keep our society strong and united; to share the benefits of progress with all, not just some; to uplift all Singaporeans, and not just a few.”
5. Creating good jobs for Singaporeans
“With our tripartite partners, we will continue to build a vibrant economy and create good jobs for all. We will find new ways to be productive and innovative, and achieve a better balance where work is purposeful, and life is meaningful.”
6. Fostering a fairer and more equal society
“We will look after our seniors, the vulnerable amongst us, and those with special needs. We will support all Singaporeans, regardless of their start points, age or ability — to uplift themselves and lead fulfilling lives.”
7. Building a society where Singaporeans matter
“We need your help too — to support our fellow citizens, and to renew our commitment to each other. Then we can build a Singapore where everyone succeeds in being the best possible versions of themselves.”
“We can be a people, who are more: inclusive, gracious, and big-hearted. We can be a society where every Singaporean matters. And a Singapore that matters to every Singaporean.”
8. Overcoming the challenges
“There are no easy formulas to apply, no available models to follow. We will have to experiment, discover fresh solutions, and blaze new paths.”
“When the going gets tough, we do not crumble. We press on, with faith in our fellow citizens and in Singapore’s future. We strive harder, reach further, and prove that with determination and hard work, there is no challenge we cannot overcome.”
9. Promise to Singaporeans
“I will serve you with all my heart. I will never settle for the status quo. I will always seek better ways to make tomorrow better than today.”
“Everyone will have a stake in our nation’s progress. Everyone will play a key role in shaping our future.”
“…I will also engage and maximise the combined energies, imaginations, and strengths of all Singaporeans. That is how we will take our nation forward in this dangerous and troubled world.”
10. PM Wong’s mission
“To continue defying the odds and to sustain this miracle called Singapore. So that we can reach even greater heights. So that we can be a beacon of hope and unity for ourselves and our children.”
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