Elections that lead to a divided society have 'no winners': PM Wong on the importance of social unity

Any election that leads to society becoming more polarised and divided will ultimately end up having "no winner", whether in the U.S. or elsewhere, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in a press conference with local media on Nov. 8.

Even though one party must be declared the victor, everyone is worse off because it makes it more difficult for countries to move forward.

However, PM Wong emphasised that it takes everyone, including the government and society, working together to prevent a divided and polarised society.

How to ensure we avoid divisions seen in the US presidential election

PM Wong was responding to a question from Mothership, who asked the prime minister what can Singaporeans do to ensure that rising racial and societal tensions seen in the U.S. election does not repeat itself here.

He said that "we've always been concerned" about the danger of a polarised society, and the government has tried hard to put safeguards in place against falsehoods.

"For example, we recently updated our laws with regards to deep fakes, and potential abuse, misinformation in the elections," said Wong.

Another way society can protect itself is to keep strengthening its institutions, with the government explaining its considerations.

"We hope at the end of the day, it is Singaporeans themselves who will do their part. Because at the end of the day, it is Singaporeans who hopefully understands what's at stake.

It's about choosing the right party to govern, that's important, but it's also about determining our future."

PM Wong added that as a small country in a world becoming more dangerous, turbulent and volatile, it will be more difficult to stay relevant, survive and thrive if we are unable to hold together as a society.

All of us must work together

The prime minister also made the point, in a separate exchange, that he does not take his position or the mandate from the voters for granted, and he does not assume that the PAP will automatically form the next government.

Elections will come and go, and the government will continue to present its best case to the people and hope for their support.

But what's vital, PM Wong said, is that we continue to do our best. All of us, government, people, political parties, working together to make sure that we never end up in a situation where society is divided or polarised.

"We try our best not to go down the path of political populism and opportunism, but find ways to keep our society strong, united, and maintain a high level of trust, because that's essential to Singapore to stay relevant and to survive in this new world."

Top image by Mothership and Canva, Donald Trump Facebook.