PAP must speak up when political lines are crossed or risk toxic politics, says PM Wong

“Because they open real doors for our businesses to expand, for Singaporeans to have new opportunities, and importantly, for Singapore to secure the space we need to thrive in a more uncertain and contested world.”

Another priority is to keep Singapore’s economy competitive and strong.

“As the global economy begins to fragment, companies are rewiring their supply chains, shifting trade routes as well as flows of capital,” he said.

“We have to make sure Singapore stays at the centre of these new flows, and not get bypassed by them.”

He added that amidst these shifts, new opportunities will emerge, and to seize them, the government must be ready to question old assumptions, refresh its thinking and update its policies.

He said that restructuring and transformation is never easy, and there will be downsizing and even retrenchments in some areas must be accepted.

But this is not necessarily a sign of failure, but part of the renewal cycle of a healthy and vibrant economy.

“Our job as a government is not to stop change, but to help people ride through it – to give them the skills, support and confidence to seize new opportunities, and ensure that no one is left behind,” he said. 

To this end, the Singapore Economic Resilience Taskforce led by Deputy PM Gan Kim Yong is working towards a set of recommendations by early next year, said Mr Wong.

“I look forward to receiving them. Government will give our response in Budget 2026.”

Finally, Mr Wong said the government’s third priority is to provide assurance and support, and to keep society strong and united.

Policies are being reviewed in all the key areas, especially in education, healthcare, housing and retirement.

“Ultimately, all these efforts are about one thing: enabling every Singaporean to look to the future with confidence,” he said.

“We will keep strengthening our safety nets, so that whatever your background or circumstance, you do not have to walk this journey alone, the PAP will always have your back.”