SINGAPORE: Singapore’s diversity is a” source of strength” and the people here must continually seek ways to deepen mutual understanding and expand common space, said Prime Minister Lawerence Wong on Tuesday ( Jan 28 ).
In his first Taiwanese New Year address as prime minister since taking over the management throne last month, Mr. Wong argued that Singaporeans may make an extra effort to join and connect with people of all races and religions.
” We perhaps have opposing viewpoints on problems that are important to us.” But we cannot allow our distinctions pull us off”, he said.  ,
Our unification is a valuable resource that we must continue to preserve and cultivate in a world that is increasingly divided and polarized.
He claimed that the universe is also “more dangerous” in his information, citing Middle Eastern hostility as a means of funding terrorist organizations ‘ operations.
The Internal Security Act was used to detain three people earlier this month whose radicalization was sparked or accelerated by the Israel-Hamas issue.  ,
The three Singaporeans had prepared to engage in military assault abroad and were self-radicalized individually online.
Singapore must also be emotionally prepared for the possibility of an attack these, according to Mr. Wong, while Singapore will continue to be diligent against any security risks.
” If that were to arise, we must be able to walk together as one united individuals, resolute and complete.  ,
The prime secretary said,” These issues should not undermine the fabric of our world, but rather improve our commitment to defend our unity and way of life,” the prime minister said.  ,
SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES
Mr. Wong also noted the government’s commitment to supporting families at all stages of life in his Chinese New Year message.  ,
He claimed that the government is increasing the availability of Build-to-Order ( BTO ) apartments and increasing the cost of affordable housing for young couples.
In 2025, about 19,600 BTO flats will be introduced, of which nearly 20 % will have shorter waiting periods of under three years.
Additionally, a new shared parental leave scheme will be implemented, which will improve leave arrangements.  ,
When a new scheme is fully implemented by April 1, 2026, Mr. Wong previously announced during his National Day Rally speech in August that parents will receive an additional 10 weeks of shared leave to care for their children.  ,  ,
” We are also investing significantly in schools, especially preschools, so that every child, regardless of background, gets a good start in life, “he said.