S'poreans must decide on team to lead nation at this 'critical juncture': Lawrence Wong at PAP manifesto launch

Singapore is at a critical juncture, and Singaporeans must decide on the right team to lead them, said PM Wong.

Speaking at the launch of the People's Action Party's (PAP) manifesto on Apr. 17, PM Wong explained that the world is going through a profound change, growing increasingly uncertain and dangerous.

"The conditions that underpinned our survival, security and success are coming apart," he said, referencing the collapsing of the global economic order that the Singapore government has been warning Singaporeans about in recent weeks.

PM Wong said that this GE carries "far greater stakes" and cannot be politics as usual.

Wong added that it is about how Singapore defends its interests on the global stage, and how we navigate through stormy weather, and secure lives and livelihoods for our people.

Changed World, Fresh Team, New Resolve

The party's tagline for its manifesto—Changed World, Fresh Team, New Resolve—reflects the party's approach to serving Singaporeans.

Singapore must brace itself for a changed world, one which is more fragmented, contested, and uncertain, said the prime minister.

The tariffs imposed by the Trump administration turned out to be more drastic than expected. In the words of PM Wong, it's the "biggest shock that the post-World War 2 global system has experienced".

But aside from the adverse impact on Singapore's economy in the short term, Singapore must contend with a fraying of the rules-based global system, said the prime minister.

"How we navigate through these turbulent times will determine our future and our children’s future."

In the coming General Election, the party will field 32 new candidates, the largest batch introduced in recent history.

Apart from featuring a diverse crop of new faces—they come from the SAF, public service, private sector, academia, unions and NGOs—this batch of new candidates also features more women.

Addressing the new candidates, PM Wong urged them to expect tough fights in all constituencies:

"Make no mistake: this will be a tough election."

SG60 GE 'far greater stakes'

Lastly, the PM said that this GE carries "far greater stakes".

PM Wong added that it cannot be politics as usual, as Singapore defends its interests on the global stage.

He emphasised that "this SG60 election is ultimately our future".

PM Wong assured Singaporeans that the PAP has a new resolve to keep the Singapore miracle going for "as long as possible", growing a vibrant economy, strengthening the education system, providing affordable housing, and building a sustainable city.

"This manifesto is our promise to all Singaporeans. It reflects your hopes, concerns and aspirations. It reflects our commitment: to keep Singapore strong, stable and united. We deliver this promise as Team PAP."

Top image: PAP/YouTube