SINGAPORE \u2013 The PAP is looking for people with different experiences, perspectives and ideas to help it tackle the challenges ahead, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.<\/p>\n
Speaking at an event on July 4 to mark the 40th anniversary of the PAP\u2019s youth wing, he said the party does not want everyone in its ranks to think the same way.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis diversity is essential for the PAP to keep renewing itself and to continue governing well for the longer term,\u201d said PM Wong, who is the party\u2019s secretary-general.<\/p>\n
Addressing more than 1,200 youth activists and participants at the Young PAP YP40 festival at Sands Expo and Convention Centre, he called for them to \u201cwiden the circle\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou do not have to agree with us on every single issue,\u201d he said. \u201cIn fact, it\u2019s the opposite.<\/p>\n
\u201cSo, if you care deeply about Singapore and about our future, if you have ideas about how we can make our country better, then come and join the PAP,\u201d he said at the event, where the party\u2019s new logo for the youth wing was launched.<\/p>\n
Young PAP is the youth wing of the ruling party, aimed at engaging citizens below the age of 40. Chaired by Minister of State Alvin Tan, the wing actively gathers feedback from youth, drafts position papers on issues like climate change, and champions mental health campaigns.<\/p>\n Minister of State Alvin Tan speaking at an event to mark the 40th anniversary of the PAP\u2019s youth wing on July 4.<\/p>\n ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n PM Wong also acknowledged the natural instinct for some young people to be drawn to the underdog.<\/p>\n \u201cYou may look at the PAP and think: this is already a big and established party \u2013 it does not need me… but you are mistaken,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n He noted that Singapore is competing with the world, against countries with larger populations, bigger markets, and far greater resources.<\/p>\n \u201cIn that arena, Singapore has always been, and will always be the underdog,\u201d added PM Wong, stressing that Singapore\u2019s past achievements do not determine its future success.<\/p>\n \u201cEvery generation must bring fresh ideas, new energy and a renewed sense of responsibility to take Singapore forward,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd the PAP can continue to govern Singapore well, only if each generation renews the party with good people who are prepared to serve.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/picture><\/div>