15th Parliament opens: Government to ease anxieties from economic change, maintain social mobility

Key Concepts

• Social Mobility: Ensuring each generation has the opportunity to improve their socioeconomic standing.
• Upskilling/Reskilling: Providing resources and training for workers to adapt to changing job market demands.
• Forward Singapore: Government initiatives aimed at strengthening support for Singaporeans at every stage of life.
• We for Society: A societal model prioritizing collective well-being over individual achievement.
• Culture of Contribution: Encouraging giving, volunteering, and acts of care for the common good.
• Multiple Pathways to Success: Recognizing and valuing diverse forms of excellence beyond academic achievements.

Addressing Economic Change and Supporting Workers

The government acknowledges the challenge of adapting to economic changes and the need for Singaporeans to evolve their skills faster than ever. Initiatives like financial help for retrenched Singaporeans and resources for mid-career workers to upskill and pivot are being implemented. These efforts are driven by the conviction that Singaporeans should never face uncertainty alone. The "Forward Singapore" initiative aims to strengthen support for Singaporeans at every stage of life, ensuring dignity, purpose, and hope.

Tailored Support for Youth, Families, and Seniors

Singapore's youth, families, and seniors can expect tailored support, including securing jobs, skills upgrading, and access to affordable essential services. The government will also address the strain from rising costs.

Tackling Inequality and Promoting Social Mobility

The government recognizes the risk of entrenched inequality as societies mature, where privilege is passed down and disadvantage becomes harder to escape. While progress has been made in raising incomes, especially for the lowest income earners, the work is ongoing. Maintaining social mobility for each new generation remains a national priority. The goal is to provide everyone with the chance to move up the "escalator of skills, confidence, and a better life" and to develop themselves to their fullest potential.

Expanding the Definition of Success

Efforts to promote social mobility will start in the early years of every child and continue through the education system. The aim is to open multiple pathways to success, develop values, and celebrate different forms of excellence. President Tharman emphasizes that technical expertise, practical problem-solving skills, and sporting and artistic proficiency must be equally valued at the workplace. This requires challenging deep-seated assumptions about what constitutes valuable work and who is considered a professional. Progress means recognizing the value in every job and ensuring that everyone who contributes to society earns respect and can build a good life.

Measuring Success Beyond Economic Growth

Singapore's success will not be measured on economic growth alone. It must also be judged by how vulnerable groups, such as low-income families and persons with disabilities, are supported.

Building a "We for Society" and a Culture of Contribution

The government aims to build a "We for Society," where the collective is put before the self. This involves creating space for people to lead programs and ground-up causes, as well as encouraging giving and volunteering. The goal is to build a culture of contribution, where success is measured not only by personal achievement but also by what one can do for the common good. This extends beyond organized programs to include embracing diversity and showing care.

Preserving Unity and Harmony

This unity can never be taken for granted, especially racial and religious harmony. The government will resist any temptation to use race or religion for political gain or to view national issues through such lenses, recognizing the dangerous divisions and lasting scars that can result. Instead, Singapore must continue to nurture its distinctiveness: the ability to accept multiple identities, to take respectful interest in each other's cultures, and to build common ground through shared experiences.

Conclusion

The video outlines Singapore's commitment to addressing rising costs, an aging population, and ensuring social mobility for all its citizens. The government is focused on supporting workers through upskilling and reskilling initiatives, providing tailored support for different demographics, tackling inequality, and expanding the definition of success beyond economic growth. A key emphasis is placed on building a "We for Society" and fostering a culture of contribution, while preserving unity and harmony by resisting divisive forces. The ultimate goal is to create a society where every Singaporean has the opportunity to develop to their fullest potential and contribute to the common good.