S'poreans should 'make extra effort' to engage others from different races & religions: PM Wong in CNY message

Singaporeans should make an "extra effort" to engage and reach out to fellow Singaporeans of different races and religions, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in his 2025 Chinese New Year message.

"We may have different views on issues that matter deeply to us. But we cannot let our differences pull us apart," he added.

PM Wong also said that families are the "bedrock" of Singapore's society and that the government is "committed to supporting families at every stage of life".

He also spoke about the government's plans to better support caregivers and  do more for "vulnerable families", who might be going through difficulties even amid the Chinese New Year celebrations.

PM Wong also called on Singaporeans to do their part, and to step into Singapore's 60th year of independence with "courage, determination and resolve".

Families at the heart of what matters most

In his message, PM Wong said that the snake in the Chinese zodiac "represents wisdom and adaptability".

"These are qualities we will need to navigate uncertainties and challenges, especially in our external environment," he added.

On the topic of families, PM Wong noted that it has "become harder" to balance work and family life in "today's fast-paced and competitive world".

"Yet families remain at the heart of what matters most to us," he said, adding that he is "encouraged" that many Singaporeans continue to prioritise marriage, parenthood and family.

PM Wong added that the government is supporting families "at every stage of life".

He said that the supply of Build-To-Order (BTO) flats is being ramped up and public housing is being made more affordable for young couples.

The government is also enhancing parental leave arrangements such as the Shared Parental Leave scheme, and investing more in pre-schools so that "every child, regardless of background, gets a good start in life".

Support for seniors and caregivers

On supporting senior citizens and their caregivers, PM Wong said that the government is providing more support to ensure seniors can age with "peace of mind", and with "dignity and purpose".

PM Wong added that caregivers are the "unsung heroes in many families".

"Many Singaporeans juggle multiple caregiving responsibilities, looking after ageing parents, young children, or family members with special needs," he stated.

He expressed the government's deep appreciation for caregivers' contributions and said it will find ways to better support them.

"As we celebrate Chinese New Year, let us also remember our fellow Singaporeans going through difficult times," PM Wong said.

He added that the government has also been doing more to help vulnerable families and provide better opportunities for their children.

However, he called for Singaporeans to do their part to build an inclusive society, saying that acts of kindness bring us closer together, adding:

"Each one of us can make a difference — by donating to charitable causes, volunteering to help those in need, or leading social initiatives."

Celebrating diversity, keeping Singapore a beacon of safety

"This festive season is also an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of our Singapore family," PM Wong highlighted.

He noted that while Singaporeans may have different views on issues that matter deeply to them, we cannot let the differences pull us apart.

"We should make an extra effort to engage and reach out to fellow Singaporeans of different races and religions," he added.

He said Singapore's diversity is "a source of strength" and that we must look for ways to deepen mutual understanding and "expand our common space" amid an increasingly divided world, which is also getting more dangerous with terror attacks across various countries.

SG60

PM Wong noted that the 2025 Chinese New Year is "special" as it coincides with SG60.

"60 years marks a full cycle of life in Chinese culture. It is therefore timely to reflect on how far we have come, honour the contributions and sacrifices of our pioneers, and build on their legacy to chart our next steps forward."

PM Wong called for Singaporeans to step into the "next life cycle" with "courage, determination and resolve".

He concluded: "I wish all Singaporeans a happy, healthy and prosperous Chinese New Year."

Top photo by Prime Minister's Office