I will devote every ounce of my strength to the party, the govt & to S'pore: PM Wong

No one can tell how long the People's Action Party (PAP) can continue as the ruling party, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said at the PAP conference on Nov. 24, 2024, where he is slated to take over the role of secretary-general from Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

"In the end, Singaporeans will decide, and that's how our system of democracy works," he said.

"But I give you my word: whatever lies ahead, I will do everything I can under my watch to win the support and trust of Singaporeans."

PM Wong said he embraced the challenges, recognised the weight of his responsibilities and valued the trust placed in him.

He pledged to serve with humility and said he would devote "every ounce of his strength" to the party, the government and to Singapore.

Singaporeans must remain united amidst global turbulence

Trying external circumstances have only exacerbated global tensions, making it a "far more dangerous world" than ever before, and a new world order has yet to take shape, he said.

"Singaporeans are bound to have different views on global developments ... but we cannot let our differences pull us apart."

It is tough for a small country like Singapore to be heard, which will only be worse if the country's voice is diffused and incoherent, making it paramount for the country to take a united stance and position.

Domestically, the PAP steered the country through the Covid-19 pandemic, which PM Wong called "a baptism of fire".

Facing a new generation of voters, the PAP must continue to deliver and go beyond voter's expectations.

Cost of living concerns

Frustration with costs of living have overshadowed other concerns, and have resulted in some ruling parties losing their mandate to govern.

Similar pressures can be felt domestically, he said.

"The opposition parties have tried to exploit this issue to turn sentiments against the PAP, even though they themselves do not have good solutions."

He said he hoped Singaporeans would understand these are global inflation trends that impact all countries, and the government is doing its best to shield everyone from the worst effects of inflation.

PM Wong announced a new tranche of CDC vouchers to come in January.

He is also looking for ways to provide additional support as he is preparing for Budget 2025.

Speaking about the opposition

"Never assume we will not see a change in government in our lifetimes," PM Wong said.

He thanked Singaporeans for their continuous support, and acknowledged that more opposition voices are wanted in parliament.

Therefore, a "stable and good government" is at risk, and the stakes in the next election are high.

He called upon the party to earn the confidence and trust of Singaporeans, and to refresh and update their approach.

During a time when the political landscape was less contested, the PAP could afford to stay in the background, but that is not the case now, he said, adding that it is critical for the party to explain their policies, mobilise citizens, engage Singaporeans and earn their trust.

New faces

PM Wong also emphasised the importance of engaging potential candidates to join the party.

He pointed to that fact that many cabinet ministers are aged 60 and above. Being 52, PM Wong himself is one of the youngest ministers in the cabinet.

However, he cannot afford to wait until they retire to bring in new blood, as young ministers need time to nurture and grow.

"While it’s a challenge to recruit potential office-holders, I am not giving up. I am persevering and trying my best," PM Wong said.

"I cannot do all this alone. I need your support. Because elections in Singapore are a team contest."

Top photo via Mothership