We are feeling our way forward carefully, conscious of our needs and limits: PM Lee

In his National Day Message on Thursday evening, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong pointed out that Singapore will have to tread a different path as the economy matures and society’s interests diverge.

"The economy is maturing and our population is ageing. Different groups in society now have more diverse and even conflicting interests," he said in the telecast.

He then gave the example of older Singaporeans worrying about healthcare and costs of living while younger Singaporeans hope for "wider education opportunities" and "more affordable homes".

“Our road ahead will be different from the road we have travelled. So we must reassess our position, review our direction, and refresh our strategies to thrive in this new world,” he continued.

Delivering his pre-recorded message at the newly-refurbished SAFRA clubhouse in Toa Payoh, Lee, who was dressed in a peach-coloured shirt, gave his report on Singapore’s progress and goals for the year.

The prime minister began his speech by citing the stabilisation of prices of Built-To-Order (BTO) flats, the addition of more buses and bus routes, and the introduction of free early-morning MRT rides into the city.

Despite global uncertainties, Lee also revealed that the economy is expected to grow between 2.5 and 3.5 per cent this year, higher than the 1 to 3 per cent range previously expected.

He also talked about how the government is tackling longer term issues such as population, specifically mentioning the population white paper presented earlier this year which “provoked strong reactions”.

A protest against the white paper, which projected that Singapore’s population could grow to as much as 6.9 million by 2030, drew thousands in February in one of the biggest such gatherings in the city-state since independence.

“We face difficult choices: We need foreign workers to serve our economy and Singaporeans’ needs, and immigrants to make up for our shortfall of babies. But we also worry about crowding and congestion, and maintaining our Singaporean identity,” he said. “So we are feeling our way forward carefully, conscious both of our needs and our limits, and seeking the best outcome for Singaporeans.”

Lee also acknowledged the importance of Our Singapore Conversation in “helping us crystallise what we aspire to”, assuring Singaporeans that the government will “set goals” and “work out plans” to realise these aspirations while keeping in mind the competition, opportunities and potential as a people.

However, the prime minister warned that all these changes would come to nought if the country is divided.

“At the same time, all this is only possible if we are one united people, and not divided by race, social class, or political faction. We must always have able, honest and committed leaders, who can be trusted to serve Singaporeans. We need a good government that thinks and plans ahead, and more importantly feels for our concerns and hopes. That is the way to build a better Singapore – together.”