Budget 2026 debate: WP MPs urge more support for families, solutions to raise fertility rate

Ms He also discussed overcrowding and the impact it could have on Singaporeans. 

In her speech, she referenced a written parliamentary reply last month by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office Indranee Rajah to a question from MP Fadli Fawzi (WP-Aljunied) on whether the government expects Singapore’s total population to be at, above, or below 6.9 million beyond 2030.

Ms Indranee said scenarios showed that Singapore’s population is expected to remain significantly below 6.9 million by 2030, and that 6.9 million remains relevant as a planning parameter for the 2030s. 

She added that Singapore’s future population size depends on various demographic trends, such as birth rates, life expectancies, and migration, as well as future social and economic needs. 

“If 6.9 million is just a planning parameter, then the question Singaporeans living in high-density communities like Sengkang need to see answered is this: at that parameter, what precisely does our infrastructure plan to provide, and at what point does this provision start to cause discomfort?” asked Ms He.

“The instinct to avoid having conversations about our population limits may backfire. It is a visible uncertainty that may cause anxiety, and actively dampen positive emotions. It is thus fair for Singaporeans to ask for greater clarity.”

She asked if the government would consider releasing population projections for each region as part of its Urban Redevelopment Authority plans.

Singapore’s total population hit a new high of 6.11 million as of June 2025, with the increase mainly due to the growth in the non-resident population.