Outgoing prime minister Lee Hsien Loong held his final cabinet meeting in his current capacity on May 9.

Reflecting on the weekly meetings, which were held "even during the pandemic", PM Lee wrote in a Facebook post that they are a crucial platform to discuss national issues and major policies.

He also thanked his colleagues and noted that DPM Lawrence Wong would take over the helm in these meetings from next week.

"In cabinet, the Prime Minister is 'primus inter pares' — not the boss with his subordinates, but the first among equals, all deliberating together to find the best solutions for Singapore," he wrote.

"It has been my privilege to lead my Cabinet team for the past 20 years."

Thanked colleagues

In a Facebook post of his own, DPM Wong thanked his predecessor for his "service and leadership".

"I will work closely with them, to harness fully the strengths of the team, and to take Singapore forward," he wrote.

Wong added that he would share more details about the new cabinet line-up next week.

The new Cabinet, including him as the new PM, will be sworn in on May 15.

However, Wong said in a media address on Apr. 16 that he was not planning any major changes to the Cabinet as yet.

However, there might be "marginal adjustments here and there", he acknowledged.

He added that he would concurrently be looking at "possible promotions", and considering "bringing in a few backbenchers to strengthen the team".

More major changes to the Cabinet would only kick in after the next general election, Wong said.

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Top image from MCI via PM Lee/Facebook and MCI via Lawrence Wong/Facebook