The last major Cabinet reshuffle was in June 2022, which saw Mr Wong promoted to Deputy Prime Minister.
Asked to elaborate on his considerations for the Cabinet line-up, Mr Wong said that he wants some continuity to “build on what we have today” and “reinforce what works well”.
“But I also want change because we should re-examine and refresh our current approaches and be prepared to break new ground in order to adapt more effectively to a rapidly changing environment,” he added.
Eventually, Mr Wong said he wants a “good balance” between experienced ministers and new Cabinet members with fresh perspectives.
“For now, the broad shape of the team remains intact,” said Mr Wong, adding that Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean will also remain in Cabinet after the handover.
“Depending on the outcome of the General Election, there will be an opportunity to renew and strengthen the team with new members. And this will be one of my key priorities, which is to form the best possible team to serve Singapore and Singaporeans.”
READY FOR GE AT PRESS OF A BUTTON
Mr Wong was also asked on Tuesday whether the People’s Action Party (PAP) conference and 70th anniversary this November would impact the GE timing and if the conference would be an occasion to rally and take stock of support for the party.
In response, Mr Wong, who is also deputy secretary-general of the ruling party, said that party conference and general elections are “two different things altogether”.
He said that preparations for the next GE “starts the day after the last election”.
“We have to consistently tend to the ground, attend to the needs of residents and strive to win over their hearts and minds,” said Mr Wong.
“And if we do that, if all our branches do that, then we really don’t have to anticipate or second guess when the elections are called because whenever the button is pressed, we will be ready for the campaign.”
He also thanked Cabinet members and MPs for placing their confidence in him as their next leader, and paid tribute to PM Lee.
“I stand on the shoulders of giants and one in particular stands out, and that’s Mr Lee Hsien Loong,” said Mr Wong.
He noted that Singapore’s economy has grown tremendously under Mr Lee’s leadership, with Singaporeans enjoying steady improvements in their income and standard of living.
The nation has also weathered many crises and emerged stronger each time, with its international standing and the “Singapore brand” strengthening.
“So on behalf of all Singaporeans, I thank Mr Lee Hsien Loong for his selfless service to our country, and lasting contributions to Singapore.”
