“Even more important, we have got here together – calmly, with all sides showing restraint, listening to one another, and accepting compromises to achieve a good result,” said Mr Lee.
He added that this is a deeply felt and sensitive issue, and could have easily become a very divisive one.
“But we have not allowed it to divide us. Instead we have handled it responsibly and thoughtfully, and held everyone together. This is a major achievement.”
Mr Lee thanked those who have worked hard for many months leading up to the repeal and the constitutional amendment.
He added that the engagements started long before the issue was touched on during his National Day Rally speech in August, and thousands of people have taken part in many dialogue sessions to give their views, express concerns and share their hopes for how Singapore’s society would develop.
Mr Lee said the participants spoke openly and sincerely, and helped to shape a national consensus on the path forward.
“The way we have been able to handle this delicate matter gives me confidence that the outcome will be well accepted,” said Mr Lee, adding that other difficult issues are bound to arise in the years to come.
“With the same spirit, we can tackle them successfully, while remaining one united people.”
