Lawrence Wong’s 2025 National Day Rally Speech: Shaping a Thriving Society for the Future
Singapore’s economy has weathered the storms of the past few years with resilience and adaptability. To continue this momentum into the future, the government will focus on three key areas:
- Investing in Productivity and Innovation: We will allocate significant resources to support businesses in adopting new technologies, automating processes, and upskilling their workforce. By enhancing productivity, we can increase our economic output and maintain our competitiveness in the global market.
- Creating New Growth Engines: The government will foster the development of emerging industries, such as biomedical sciences, advanced manufacturing, and digital technologies. These industries have the potential to drive economic growth and create jobs for Singaporeans.
- Promoting Entrepreneurship and Start-ups: Singapore will provide a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs and start-ups to thrive. This includes access to funding, mentorship, and incubation programs. By fostering innovation and risk-taking, we can create new businesses and generate employment opportunities.
Economic growth is not merely about numbers; it must also translate into tangible benefits for all Singaporeans. The government is committed to building a society that is fair, equitable, and inclusive:
- Addressing Income Inequality: The government will implement a range of measures to reduce income inequality, including progressive taxation, wage subsidies for low-income workers, and investments in affordable housing.
- Improving Healthcare and Education: Singapore will continue to invest heavily in healthcare and education, ensuring that all citizens have access to quality medical care and education regardless of their background.
- Supporting the Vulnerable: The government will provide support to vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, the disabled, and low-income families, through social welfare programs and assistance schemes.
Singapore faces significant challenges related to climate change and sustainability. The government will prioritize the following measures:
- Reducing Carbon Emissions: Singapore will transition to a low-carbon economy by investing in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure.
- Enhancing Water Resilience: The government will secure Singapore’s water supply by diversifying sources, developing new technologies, and promoting water conservation.
- Protecting Our Environment: Singapore will continue to protect and restore its natural heritage, including forests, parks, and coastal areas.
The future success of Singapore depends on our ability to innovate and collaborate effectively:
- Investing in Research and Development: The government will allocate significant funds to support research and development in key areas, such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and advanced materials.
- Encouraging Cross-Sector Collaboration: Singapore will facilitate collaboration between businesses, academia, and government to drive innovation and solve complex challenges.
- Promoting Diversity and Inclusivity: The government will create an environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives can contribute to the innovation ecosystem.
As we embark on this transformative journey, it is essential that all Singaporeans play an active role in shaping our future:
- Government’s Role: The government will provide the necessary resources, policies, and leadership to drive progress.
- Businesses’ Role: Businesses are key partners in economic growth and innovation. They should invest in their workforce, adopt new technologies, and create high-value jobs.
- Individuals’ Role: Each individual has a responsibility to contribute to the collective good. This includes actively participating in the workforce, upskilling, and embracing lifelong learning.
In conclusion, Singapore’s future is bright but not without its challenges. By working together and embracing innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity, we can build a thriving society that will be resilient, sustainable, and prosperous for generations to come.
- Singapore’s GDP is expected to grow by 3.5% to 5.5% in 2023.
- The unemployment rate in Singapore is at a low of 2.1%.
- Singapore ranks first in the world in the Global Innovation Index.
- Singapore has a carbon emissions reduction target of 36% by 2030, compared to 2005 levels.
| Measure | Year | Value |
|---|---|---|
| GDP Growth | 2022 | 3.6% |
| Unemployment Rate | 2023 | 2.1% |
| Global Innovation Index Rank | 2022 | 1 |
| Carbon Emissions Reduction Target | 2030 | 36% |
- Define the challenge: Identify the problem or opportunity that you want to address.
- Generate ideas: Brainstorm a wide range of potential solutions.
- Evaluate ideas: Consider the feasibility, effectiveness, and impact of each idea.
- Select the best ideas: Choose the ideas that have the highest potential to solve the problem or achieve the desired outcome.
- Develop a plan: Create a detailed plan for implementing the selected ideas.
- Take action: Execute the plan and monitor its progress.
- “Lawrence Wong’s speech was a clear and comprehensive roadmap for Singapore’s future.” – The Straits Times
- “The government’s focus on innovation, collaboration, and sustainability is essential for ensuring Singapore’s long-term success.” – Channel NewsAsia
- “Wong’s emphasis on addressing income inequality and supporting the vulnerable is a welcome step towards a more equitable society.” – The Business Times
- “Singaporeans should embrace the challenges and opportunities of the future and work together to build a better tomorrow.” – Lianhe Zaobao
