Mr Wong shared that he has been spending a lot of time engaging potential candidates, but found that most Singaporeans are “comfortable where they are”, which is expected.
“They are very reluctant to change their lifestyles. Also ,why subject themselves to public glare and scrutiny?” he added.
“Often, they tell me: ‘Let someone else do the job’… Or they may say: ‘Don’t worry, PAP is in a very strong position; and after all you have just started, why are you in such a hurry, take your time’.”
Of the 19 ministers in the current Cabinet, more than half are aged 60 and above, said Mr Wong, noting that at 52, he is one of the youngest members.
The older ministers on the team provide experience and wise counsel, and will continue serving for another five to 10 years, assuming that they are in good health, he added.
“But can I wait until they retire before bringing in new blood? Surely not. I must start now to renew the team.”
In bringing in new candidates, it is “very hard” to parachute them directly into a ministerial role, since they need time to learn, said Mr Wong.
This is why it is “so urgent” to find a fresh crop of younger candidates who can eventually form the next leadership team for Singapore, he added.
