SINGAPORE: Singapore can overcome whatever challenges lie ahead as long as its people remain united, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said on Sunday ( Apr 20 ).
He was speaking at the Sembawang GRC Health Carnival. Sembawang is the last stop in his collection of district sessions as perfect minister. These sessions began in June 2024, no long after Mr Wong was sworn in to the country’s best work.
Mr Wong stressed that unification is more important than ever, particularly amid “so some black clouds, so numerous challenges ” around the world.
“We’ve got wars, war, economic uncertainty, trade wars, price wars. So many things to worry about in the world around us.
“ But that ’s why it ’s all the more important that, on this little red dot, we stay together, stay united. And if we do that, I’m confident we can conquer whatever obstacles lie ahead, ” he said.
“So let us proceed in that spirit of unity. Let us proceed forward up. ”
Singapore’s financial view has weakened amid growing international confusion. On Apr 14, the government lowered its gross domestic product ( GDP ) forecast for 2025, citing the impact of new tariffs on international trade.
Announced by United States President Donald Trump on Apr 2, the methods include a cover 10 per cent tax on all exports, with steeper prices for nations seen as having unfair business practices.
While Trump has paused more taxes on most companions for 90 days – excluding China – Singapore remains affected by the foundation 10 per cent charge, despite having zero taxes on US goods.
Despite the challenging global developments, Mr Wong said that this year was extra special, as it marked Singapore’s 60th year of independence (SG60 ).
“We’ve come a really long way. Only look at where we started and how much Singapore has changed now, and how life have improved. It’s unimaginable, ” he said.
“No one would have thought of the Singapore we have now again in 1965. But we could accomplish all that we have by working together, as one individuals. ”
While it does not think that everything is great, Mr Wong said there is still room for improvement.
“ But so long as we keep working up, I’m confident we can continue to growth, continue to perform better.
“Our best times in Singapore are also ahead of us. ”