SINGAPORE Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong emphasised the need for Singapore to adapt to a changing global landscape where the United States is less inclined to unilaterally uphold the international order.
Speaking at a Chinese New Year celebration dinner on Saturday (Feb 8), Lee described the current geopolitical climate as "tense as ever" with significant uncertainties, particularly due to the evolving US approach to global affairs.
He noted that the US, facing internal challenges, has adopted a more transactional foreign policy, prioritising immediate objectives and utilising tariffs as a key policy tool.
Lee pointed to the US withdrawal from multilateral agreements like the World Health Organization and the Paris Agreement as evidence of this shift.
"The US is no longer prepared to underwrite the global order," CNA quoted him saying, making the international environment less predictable. He stressed that Singapore, while maintaining strong ties with the US, must adapt to this new reality.
Lee highlighted ongoing global tensions, including the unresolved US-China relationship, the continuing war in Ukraine, and the persistent Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He acknowledged potential flashpoints in Southeast Asia, specifically the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea.
Despite these challenges, Lee affirmed that small nations like Singapore can and must act to secure their future. He cited two crucial factors: a strong, competent government that anticipates challenges and earns public trust, and a united populace that understands global issues and works collaboratively with the government.
He contrasted Singapore's stable leadership with other countries experiencing frequent changes in government and unfulfilled promises. He emphasised the strong government-citizen partnership in Singapore, which has enabled consistent progress over the past 60 years.
Addressing domestic concerns, Lee acknowledged cost-of-living pressures and highlighted government support measures like CDC vouchers, GST vouchers, U-Save rebates, and public transport vouchers, with further assistance expected in the upcoming Budget.
He also emphasised the government's commitment to housing, noting progress in addressing the backlog caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing plan to launch over 100,000 flats by this year. The new Standard, Plus, and Prime housing framework aims to ensure affordability and availability.
Lee outlined further investments in Singapore's future, including education, training, and upskilling programs to ensure workforce competitiveness in a rapidly changing technological landscape. Infrastructure projects like Changi Airport Terminal 5, Tuas Megaport, new train lines, and healthcare facilities are also underway.
The Long Island reclamation project will protect Singapore from rising sea levels.
He emphasised the importance of social cohesion, highlighting initiatives like Forward SG, ComLink+, the Fresh Start Housing Scheme, and SGSHARE, a national giving program linked to SG60 and Community Chest, designed to strengthen social fabric and promote volunteerism.
"We are building a Singapore where every citizen belongs, where everyone will have every opportunity to succeed, no matter their starting point in life, and where all share a sense of participation and purpose," Lee said, reiterating the need for a capable government with foresight and courage, and a united people willing to work together for the nation's long-term future. – February 9, 2025
