Speaking in Mandarin, Mr Lee said young people would need to see marriage as an important part of life.

But some men and women have contrary views, not just here but in other Asian societies.

To chuckles from his audience, Mr Lee related two examples: of how some men had overly-high expectations when looking for a partner, and how some women placed career before marriage.

He called on both men and women to be 'realistic' about marriage and try to juggle it together with their careers.

'If they wait until they have achieved success in their career, they may miss out on the opportunity to get married, and they may miss out on the ideal age for giving birth.'

Beyond changing mindsets, society can also help in bringing singles together, said Mr Lee.

This is because some may find it hard to meet the right person, due to a small social circle, busy work schedules or not knowing how to woo the opposite sex, said Mr Lee.

One solution: Hold sessions for parents to help them find partners for their single children.

Such 'parental matchmaking sessions' take place in Beijing where parents trade educational information and photographs of their children.

The People's Association should consider doing this, while parents can advise their children to marry and start families early, said Mr Lee.

But he concluded by saying that getting married is ultimately a private affair and the Government can only help from the sidelines.

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