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Over the past 60 years of nation-building, Singapore has transformed from a third-world country into a first-world nation. But this is not the end of our journey — we cannot afford to stand still. In his first National Day Rally as Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong laid out the direction for Singapore’s future development and called on all Singaporeans to work together in taking the nation to greater heights.

In this milestone year, Prime Minister Wong, in his National Day Rally speech on Sunday (Aug 17), emphasized how Singaporeans, after journeying together for six decades, can continue to write the next chapter of our nation’s story.

He noted that most Singaporeans today were born after independence, including the majority of his Cabinet team.

Although the post-1965 generation did not experience the hardships of nation-building, never shouted slogans for independence, nor lived through the pain and anxiety of Separation from Malaysia, they fully understand that today’s achievements were made possible only through the resilience, courage, and sacrifices of earlier generations — especially the founding and pioneer generations.

“So tonight, we pay tribute to all our forebears and thank you for your many contributions! Now it is our turn — to carry forward what we have inherited and together write the next chapter of Singapore’s story.”

Compared to the past era of peace and stability, the United States is no longer the guardian of the international order. As established norms and rules gradually erode, the world ahead will be increasingly volatile and unpredictable.

Prime Minister Wong stressed: “The road ahead will not be smooth. But we will not sit back and resign ourselves to being mere bystanders in a world shaped by others. We will take charge of our own destiny, and through our actions and choices, shape the future we want.”

As in previous years, this year’s National Day Rally was held at the Institute of Technical Education College Central in Ang Mo Kio.

Dressed in a bright red shirt, the Prime Minister delivered a nearly two-hour speech in Malay, Mandarin, and English. His English segment centered on five themes — the economy, youth, seniors, future plans, and the Singapore Spirit — outlining how the nation will move forward in this complex new era.

In April this year, the government set up the Economic Resilience Taskforce to help businesses and workers cope with challenges arising from U.S. tariffs and global uncertainties. Earlier this month, five new committees were also established to chart Singapore’s long-term development blueprint.

Prime Minister Wong emphasized that innovation and technology are key strategies for Singapore’s future economic growth, as they remain the most effective means to raise productivity and improve people’s lives. At every wave of technological change, Singapore has been able to adapt, upgrade, and drive national progress.

“Now, we are entering a new era driven by artificial intelligence. Just like computers and the internet in the past, AI will be the defining technology of our time.”

He said that while some large companies are already at the forefront, artificial intelligence is not exclusive to big corporations — every business can benefit from it. The government will support all companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, in harnessing this technology effectively to boost competitiveness. The ultimate goal is to create more job opportunities for Singaporeans.

A country is considered “super-aged” when its citizens aged 65 and above make up more than 21% of the total citizen population. By next year, Singapore is expected to enter this category. To enable more seniors to age well in place, Prime Minister Wong announced the creation of new “Age Well Neighbourhoods.”

This new concept will first be piloted in Toa Payoh and one or two other towns with larger elderly populations. These neighbourhoods will incorporate elements of existing Community Care Apartments, such as more activity centres and care posts, along with essential daily services for seniors — including home repair, meal delivery, and laundry support.

The 15th Parliament will open on September 5, with President Tharman delivering the Government’s President’s Address, setting out broad policy directions. Ministries will subsequently release addenda outlining their policy priorities and concrete plans.

Building a “We-First” Society for Singapore’s Continued Progress

On August 24, 1966, students across Singapore recited the National Pledge under the national flag for the first time. The Pledge begins with a simple but profound statement: “We, the citizens of Singapore.”

Prime Minister Wong reminded Singaporeans that the Pledge begins with “We” and not “I.” To ensure Singapore’s continued progress, we must build a “We-First” society. If everyone only thinks about themselves, the nation will be finished.

During the Mandarin segment of his speech, the hall played the popular Hokkien song from the 1980s, “A Small Umbrella.” The song tells the story of two people sharing one umbrella, singing despite being drenched and facing an unclear path: “The heavier the rain, I’ll take care of you, and you’ll take care of me.”

Prime Minister Wong said: “On our journey forward, there will still be storms. But I firmly believe that we will take care of one another, shelter each other from the wind and rain, and together welcome a new era.”

It is precisely this Singapore Spirit that has enabled the nation to rise in just 60 years to become a first-world country.

Looking ahead, he said that some may think Singapore has already succeeded or even reached its peak, and therefore has little room for further growth. “That is a misconception.”

He called on Singaporeans to dream bigger, venture more boldly into new frontiers, be ready to try new things, and not fear setbacks or failures — but to work hand in hand to build an excellent and resilient Singapore.

Source: Lianhe Zaobao

https://www.zaobao.com.sg/news/singapore/story20250818-7368680?ref=today-news-section-card-1