In his maiden National Day Message last week, Mr Wong spoke about keeping the cost of living in Singapore stable and enhancing support for families under the Forward Singapore initiative – topics he will address in the upcoming National Day Rally.
Mr Wong, who is also Finance Minister, noted that inflation is a major concern for Singapore and many other countries, and that rising prices impact the daily expenses of Singaporeans.
“We cannot control global prices. But we can and have shielded Singaporeans from the worst effects of global inflation by keeping the Singapore dollar strong,” Mr Wong said on Aug 8.
Mr Wong, who took office as Singapore’s fourth Prime Minister on May 15, also said in his message the government will invest more to strengthen the country’s system of social support.
Some people may find it tougher to keep up in a new, volatile and rapidly changing environment, while a fast ageing population will also require more healthcare services and social support, he said.
“More of us will feel sandwiched, having to look after children as well as elderly parents.”
In the last two Budgets, steps were taken to uplift lower-wage workers, support vulnerable families and boost retirement adequacy, he said.
“We have also embarked on nationwide initiatives like Healthier SG and Age Well SG to take better care of our seniors.”
The government intends to do more, said Mr Wong.
