Cabinet swearing-in: President Tharman says GE2025 results sent strong signal of Singapore's unity

Key Concepts:

• GE 2025 (General Election 2025)
• 4G Team (Fourth Generation Leadership)
• Mandate
• Electorate Transition
• Cost of Living
• Jobs
• Housing
• Immigration
• Political Landscape
• Foreign Interference
• Politicization of Race and Religion
• Autonomy
• Multi-racialism
• Unity
• Rules-Based International Order
• Geopolitical Crosscurrents
• Demographic Shift
• Education, Skills Training, and Lifelong Learning
• Unity and Solidarity
• Forward Singapore Conversations

1. GE 2025: A Generational Moment

• GE 2025 was a significant general election marking Singapore's 60th year of independence.
• Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and his 4G team sought a mandate to lead Singapore.
• The election results reflected a strong vote of trust and confidence in PM Wong and his team.
• The electorate included younger voters with different experiences and aspirations compared to previous generations.

2. Key Issues and Political Landscape

• Singaporeans chose their representatives and the political leadership to shape the nation's future.
• Important issues debated included the cost of living, jobs, housing, and immigration.
• Singaporeans expressed their views on the desired political landscape, favoring a strong governing team while maintaining alternative voices in parliament.
• The focus was on building a society rooted in purpose and inclusivity.

3. Upholding Democratic Values and National Unity

• Singapore's democratic process remained decorous and respectful, unlike other places with hardened political divisions.
• Singaporeans demonstrated mutual respect and serious engagement, united by the desire for the best for the nation.
• There was a firm stance against foreign interference and the politicization of race and religion.
• Autonomy, multi-racialism, and unity were upheld.

4. Acceptance of Election Results and Commendation

• Political parties and candidates accepted the election results with good grace, reflecting trust in Singapore's institutions and democratic process.
• All political parties and candidates were commended for their commitment and courage.
• Singaporeans were commended for their thoughtful and responsible participation.
• Singapore and Singaporeans were the ultimate winners, setting the course for the next phase of nation-building.

5. Global Challenges and the Unraveling International Order

• Singapore faces significant global challenges, including strategic rivalries between major powers and a fragmenting global economy.
• Multilateralism is eroding, with narrower, more nationalistic approaches to trade and diplomacy.
• Singapore, as a small state, will feel the weight of these geopolitical crosscurrents.
• The stable, rules-based international order that Singapore's well-being depends on is unraveling.
• Adaptation and new strategies are needed to maintain control of Singapore's destiny and values.
• There is no returning to the world of the past 60 years.

6. Domestic Challenges and the Need for Bold Action

• Singapore faces long-term domestic challenges, including an aging population.
• The aging population will reshape the workforce, healthcare systems, and community life.
• Adaptation is needed to maintain optimism as a society.
• Preparation for an increasingly challenging economic future is crucial.
• Investment in education, skills training, and lifelong learning is essential for Singaporeans to thrive.
• Building new sources of competitiveness is necessary.

7. Unity and Solidarity as Key to Overcoming Challenges

• Overcoming challenges requires unity and solidarity, regardless of race or religion.
• Diversity should be a strength, not a vulnerability.
• The well-being of Singaporeans should be tied to each other, with support for the disadvantaged.
• This spirit of solidarity has sustained Singapore for 60 years and should continue to guide the nation.

8. Responsibilities of Members of Parliament

• Members of parliament, both government and opposition, have a solemn responsibility to serve Singapore and Singaporeans.
• Debates should be conducted with conviction and respect, with honesty and integrity.
• Critiques of policies should be robust but accompanied by alternative solutions.
• The ultimate goal is to build a fulfilling and cohesive future for Singaporeans.

9. Confidence in the New Leadership and Call for Collaboration

• GE 2025 has provided Singapore with a strong and capable government led by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
• The team is a balance of experienced leaders and new members, combining wisdom, fresh perspectives, and resolve.
• PM Wong has demonstrated calm and confident leadership through crises like COVID-19 and the Forward Singapore conversations.
• Singaporeans should work together with the government for a brighter future.
• The Prime Minister and his team should continue listening, consulting, and partnering with Singaporeans from all walks of life.

10. President's Support and Best Wishes

• As President, there is readiness to work with PM Wong and his team to uphold the constitution and protect the interests of all Singaporeans.
• Best wishes are extended to PM Wong and his government as they work with Singaporeans to take the nation forward in turbulent times.

Synthesis/Conclusion:

GE 2025 represents a pivotal moment for Singapore, marking a generational shift in leadership and electorate. While the election results demonstrate confidence in the new leadership, significant global and domestic challenges loom. Overcoming these challenges requires unity, solidarity, and a commitment to Singapore's core values. The new government is urged to collaborate with Singaporeans from all walks of life to build a brighter future, while upholding the constitution and protecting the interests of all citizens.