SECURING Singapore an assured place in a “changed world” will be a principal focus for the new term of government, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong declared on Friday as his new Cabinet was formally sworn in at the Istana.
Addressing about 650 guests, including Members of Parliament, former ministers, diplomats and civic leaders, CNA reported Wong saying the government’s key objectives include reviewing the nation’s economic strategies, strengthening the social compact, and preparing Singapore for emerging global challenges.
This is the first full Cabinet formed under Wong’s leadership since he succeeded Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong in 2024. The swearing-in, presided over by Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon, follows the People’s Action Party’s (PAP) electoral victory on 3 May, where it secured 65.57 per cent of the national vote—an improvement over its 2020 performance.
Wong has appointed three coordinating ministers and introduced nine new political office holders in his new Cabinet line-up announced earlier in the week.
“Our first priority is to secure an assured place for Singapore in this changed world,” he said, stressing the importance of principled engagement with major powers, particularly the United States and China. “Where our interests align, we will work with them. Where they do not, we will stand firm and protect Singapore’s security and sovereignty.”
He added that Singapore will also seek to build new ties with regions such as Africa and South America, where it has yet to establish a significant presence.
“In a world of shifting alliances, we will be a steady and constructive partner, one willing and able to contribute to peace and stability, to advance dialogue and fraternity, and support a rules-based global order,” he said. “Our goal is not just to navigate this uncertain world, but to help shape it for the better.”
On the domestic front, Singapore’s economic strategies will be updated in collaboration with tripartite partners to chart “a new economic blueprint” aimed at sustaining competitiveness and delivering good jobs. In the short term, the government will support businesses, households and workers amid a global slowdown.
To renew the country’s social compact, the Forward Singapore initiative will continue to be a key priority. “A society torn by inequalities cannot possibly stand resilient in the face of a turbulent world,” he said.
“We will enhance our social support system to provide greater assurances to Singaporeans across all life stages, from early childhood to retirement,” he added, noting the continued importance of keeping essential services such as education, healthcare and housing both accessible and affordable.
More diverse and flexible pathways will be developed for citizens to pursue “happiness, prosperity and progress”—the aspirations embedded in the national pledge.
Reflecting on the general election, he acknowledged that race and religion had surfaced as issues, but commended Singaporeans for not allowing these to become divisive. It was, he said, a testament to the nation’s progress and a reminder that harmony must never be taken for granted.
The government will also accelerate efforts to address the climate crisis and transition to cleaner energy. This will involve transforming national infrastructure and building smarter, greener homes across the island.
The PAP’s strong mandate, which saw the party win 87 out of 97 seats and capture all hotly contested constituencies, defied historical trends. Previous leadership transitions in 1991 and 2006 saw declines in vote share.
“In uncertain times, voters in Singapore understood what was at stake,” he said. “They chose leaders they could trust and rely on, and a steady course for the nation’s next phase of development.”
He added that the election result strengthens Singapore’s international standing. “The international community and investors would have taken note of these outcomes. They would see a nation that is united, standing firmly behind its leaders, and placing confidence in a government with the strength and security to secure Singapore’s place in an unpredictable world.” - May 24, 2025
