In his first National Day Rally speech since the general election, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong delivered a compelling vision for Singapore’s future, urging citizens to unite in writing the next chapter of the nation’s story. Addressing a global landscape marked by economic uncertainty, technological disruption, and demographic shifts, PM Wong, who also serves as Finance Minister, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to placing Singaporeans at the heart of all policies. Speaking at ITE College Central in Ang Mo Kio on August 17, 2025, he outlined a series of initiatives aimed at supporting citizens through various life stages, from job security for the young and mid-career workers to enhanced care for seniors.
Navigating a Turbulent World
Singapore faces a host of immediate challenges in what PM Wong described as a “more troubled and turbulent world.” Global tariffs imposed by the United States earlier this year, intensifying international competition, and rapid advancements in technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping the economic landscape. Against this backdrop, the government is reevaluating its economic strategy to secure Singapore’s position in a transformed global order. PM Wong emphasized that innovation and technology are key to sustainably boosting productivity and improving lives, but the core focus remains clear: jobs.
“Ultimately, our economic strategy is about jobs, jobs and jobs – that’s our No. 1 priority” he stated during his address. To address Singaporeans’ concerns about evolving or disappearing roles due to technological change, PM Wong announced three significant initiatives centered on employment. These include a job-matching scheme at the town level, enhancements to the existing SkillsFuture program for mid-career workers, and a government-funded traineeship program for tertiary education graduates. While details of these schemes are yet to be finalized, the message was unequivocal: the government will not lose sight of its people amid technological progress. 
“I assure you, even as we embrace AI and technology, we will not lose sight of our key priority” PM Wong said. “Singaporeans will always be at the centre of everything we do.” This commitment extends to ensuring a measured approach to adopting new technologies, with plans to equip businesses—especially small and medium-sized enterprises—to harness AI effectively. Additionally, the government will collaborate with unions and workers to redesign jobs and create new opportunities, reinforcing a proactive stance in shaping the future.
“The road ahead will not be easy. But we are not going to sit back and resign ourselves to being mere bystanders in a world shaped by others” PM Wong asserted. “We will take charge of our own destiny. We will shape the future we want – through our own actions, and our own choices.”
Supporting an Ageing Population
As Singapore’s demographics shift toward a larger elderly population and smaller family sizes, long-term care for seniors has emerged as a critical focus. PM Wong unveiled the Age Well Neighbourhoods scheme, an initiative designed to enable senior citizens to live independently within their communities. Drawing inspiration from HDB Community Care Apartments—senior-friendly public housing with integrated care services—the scheme will introduce features tailored to the needs of the elderly in identified towns, starting with Toa Payoh and one or two other areas.
Under this plan, more active ageing centers will be established for seniors to socialize and engage in community activities. Home-based services, including basic health checks and housekeeping, will be made available, alongside healthcare services brought closer to residents. Building on the nationwide Age Well SG initiative, the scheme aims to foster a supportive environment where seniors can thrive. “That’s how we will grow old – not in isolation, never alone, but always together as one Singapore family” PM Wong emphasized.
This focus on community infrastructure reflects a broader understanding of demographic challenges. With an ageing population, the government seeks to balance independence with care, ensuring that seniors remain active contributors to society while receiving the support they need. The initiative also underscores a commitment to inclusivity, addressing the diverse needs of Singapore’s citizens across generations.
Addressing Youth Challenges and Technological Balance
Turning to the younger generation, PM Wong highlighted pressing concerns such as vaping and excessive screen time. Labeling vaping a serious issue, he announced that the government will adopt a tougher stance, treating it as a drug-related concern. Additionally, authorities are examining international approaches to managing children’s access to the internet and social media, aiming to strike a balance between protection from potential harms and empowerment through technology.
On the integration of AI and other technological advancements in education, PM Wong stressed the importance of a nuanced approach. Singapore must protect its youth from the risks of rapid digitalization while enabling them to fully leverage its benefits. This dual focus—safeguarding and empowering—mirrors the government’s broader strategy of adapting to change without compromising core values or societal well-being.
Reimagining Singapore’s Physical and Strategic Landscape
Beyond immediate social and economic policies, PM Wong outlined ambitious plans for Singapore’s physical development, aligning with the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s Draft Master Plan 2025, which charts the nation’s growth over the next 10 to 15 years. Key areas in the northern part of the island, including Woodlands North, Kranji Racecourse, and Sembawang Shipyard, are slated for redevelopment. These projects aim to reimagine existing land use, creating new opportunities for growth and community building.
Simultaneously, the government is addressing environmental challenges, particularly the threat of rising sea levels due to climate change. Plans are underway to protect Singapore’s coastline, ensuring that progress is not derailed by shifting global circumstances. “So even as climate shifts and circumstances evolve, one thing is certain: Singapore’s progress will never be left to chance” PM Wong declared. “We are, and have always been, a nation that adapts, reinvents and dares to dream.”
A Collective Vision for the Future
Concluding his speech, PM Wong underscored that while good plans and strategies are essential, the true driver of Singapore’s continued success lies in the collective will of its people. He called for a We first society, where citizens prioritize community over individual gain, fostering a spirit of mutual care and contribution. “If each of us does our part for the ‘we’ – care, contribute and look out for one another – then the ‘me’ will thrive and flourish too” he noted.
To achieve this, his administration will actively involve Singaporeans in policy discussions, creating more avenues for public engagement. “We certainly do not want to end up as a society where people rely solely on the government. It’s about all of us – government, businesses, workers and unions, community groups and civil society – doing our part” PM Wong explained. This collaborative approach defines his leadership style: not merely acting for Singaporeans, but working with them to build a shared future.
As Singapore looks beyond its 60th year of independence, PM Wong urged citizens to dream bigger and push boundaries, even at the risk of setbacks. “We take pride in whatever we do, and strive to be the best possible versions of ourselves,” he said. “We never give up and we never let each other down. That’s how we’ve achieved exceptional performance. That’s how we will continue to stay exceptional – as a people and a country.”
As these initiatives unfold, their impact on Singapore’s social fabric and economic resilience will be closely watched. The path ahead, while challenging, is one that PM Wong and his government appear determined to navigate with the active participation of every citizen.
