As Singapore prepares for its leadership transition in the coming years, it needs to send a "positive signal" to the world about its stability, cohesion and progressiveness, said Trade and Industry Minister Chan Chun Sing.

This is so that it can "continue to inspire confidence in all investors" to invest in Singapore and "create good jobs" for Singaporeans.

Singapore needs "strong & committed leaders"

Speaking at the annual Chinese New Year dinner for Tanjong Pagar GRC and Radin Mas SMC on Saturday, Feb. 9, Chan said Singapore needs "strong and committed leaders who have the guts to make bold decisions" in order to safeguard the country's long-term future.

In addition, he rejected the suggestion that the government has "gone slack", saying that they will never shirk from their responsibilities to the country.

Chan also called for Singaporeans to remain "united and cohesive", and to take Singapore's stability seriously for it has been key to the country's success.

Singapore must build "look beyond certain personalities" in dealing with other countries

Speaking in the context of the ongoing bilateral disputes between Singapore and Malaysia over maritime boundaries and airspace management, Chan said that it was important for Singapore to "look beyond certain personalities".

He said Singapore should understand how the "deeper forces and domestic considerations of different countries" are influencing the way they relate to one another.

He added that Singapore should remain calm and consistent, never take sides, and continue to build "constructive ties" with other countries on the basis of mutual benefits.

Top image via Chan Chun Sing's Facebook page