In his very first speech as the commander of the People’s Action Party (PAP), PM Wong captivated his audience with a call to prioritize the social fabric of the country and put the nation over self-interest in a geopolitically turbulent world. He further went on to issue a warning about sensitive social and foreign matters, calling them a political playground that could potentially allow for a schism to form politically and socially within the country.
Navigating a troubled world: Unity First
Citing the wars in Gaza and Europe, Wong pointed to contending factors that are pulling Singapore in various directions as being outside forces. While highlighting how there is generally a degree of free discourse on most issues, he pointed out how there is a tradeoff during election seasons demanding for nebulous phenomena to be met: “If we are not careful, this can be exploited, and we will end up pitting Singaporeans one against another; we will end up dividing and weakening us.”
He urged voters not to exacerbate delicate issues while championing multiracial politics, reiterating the notion that “there has to be unity.” He further emphasized the need to maintain a united front regarding national interests, sovereignty, security, and Singapore’s global position, reminding us that “politics ends at the water’s edge.”
Republic—Broken by Wong’s Appeal
His running mate, Senior Minister of State for Defence and Manpower Zaqy Mohamad, captured Wong’s worries as well, noticing the dividing nature of the politics today in the world over. Zaqy pointed to the divide between pro-LGBT and anti-LGBT, pro-abortion and pro-life, and pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli factions. “We all have our belief systems and there is also a baggage of hurt and grievances that one carries. As politicians, we face conflicts of interest when putting national interests first,” he said, adding that, “ Whatever differences we have as citizens, we must never, never allow politics to factor into division among our people.”
Every Character — Inspection of All Sections.
While addressing the public at Woodlands Stadium in Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC, Wong urged the people of Singapore to vote for people of character and those who would serve them and the nation diligently.
Responding to the opposition’s statement regarding the issuance of a “blank check” to the ruling party, Wong replied, “Yes, look at the PAP candidates, and consider them carefully. But I would also say, Don’t give the opposition a free pass.” He encouraged applying the same criteria of character, professionalism, and willingness to serve to all political parties.
A Growing Divide: “Singapore Facing the Global Community”
Wong pointed out once again the problems Singapore encounters in the contemporary world. Reminding Singaporeans of an important point, he stated, “Remember, above all, when the election is over… it’s not the PAP versus the opposition. It is Singapore versus the world. It is our little red dot versus a dangerous and troubled world.” He noted the increased strength of the opposition by stating, “They are determined; they really want to grow.” He added to this by highlighting the increased number of candidates fielded by opposition parties such as the Workers’ Party and Red Dot United.
Renewed Team: Investing in the Future
Wong spoke about the veteran PAP MPs’ departures: Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, and Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen. While commending them, he pointed out that the party needs to be refreshed with new blood. “I cannot just focus on my needs today. I also have to think about your future and Singapore’s future,” he said.
He cited the new candidates’ former positions, praising the leadership of ex-army chief David Neo and ex-Agency for Integrated Care CEO Dinesh Vasu Dash during the Covid-19 pandemic. He also attributed the current cabinet members’ contributions, including Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, Education Minister Chan Chun Sing, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung, and Manpower Minister Tan See Leng, stressing the strength and cohesion of the team in overcoming future challenges.
A Call to Action: Building on Singapore’s Miracle
Wong, while defending the PAP’s policies, blended past acknowledgments of errors with actionable intent by stating, “But we did get most things right and we always walked with you hand in hand every step of the way to build this nation together.” From this point onward, he made his action-oriented statement where he told Singaporeans that they should strive to “keep our Singapore miracle going for as long as possible.”
