SINGAPORE – Countries that have planned ahead, such as by diversifying their supply sources, are better placed to absorb external shocks like disruptions in oil markets, said Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong on May 11.
“Disruptions in global oil and gas markets have shown how quickly external shocks can affect countries, businesses and households,” he said, citing recent developments.
The impact can be felt through higher electricity and transport costs, higher operating costs for businesses and higher prices of everyday essentials.
Countries that have been diversifying their sources of supplies, strengthening their systems and organising themselves nationally “are better placed to absorb such shocks”, DPM Gan added.
In the same way, planning ahead is needed for climate action.
“Even as climate action has wavered in some countries, the impact of climate change has not slowed. The physics of climate change does not pause because global attention shifts elsewhere. This is why we must stay the course,” he said.
Speaking at the launch of Go Green SG 2026, held at Naval Base Primary School, he emphasised the importance of resilience in fighting the impacts of climate change.
Go Green SG is an annual movement led by the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) to rally citizens, businesses and the community to take collective action towards a more environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient Singapore.
Held from May 11 to June 28, the 2026 edition features more than 1,000 activities organised by around 500 partners, with some initiatives targeted at raising awareness about climate adaptation.
“Climate resilience takes time to implement. It requires long-term planning, sustained investment and changes in habits across society,” said DPM Gan.
The Government’s first National Adaptation Plan, which is expected to be launched in 2027, will serve as a long-term living road map to prepare for climate risks – from heat and floods to water stress and sea-level rise, he added.
“The National Adaptation Plan will help us think through how our homes, workplaces, schools, infrastructure and communities can be better prepared,” he said.
