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Recap: Key announcements from PM Wong’s Budget 2026

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This year’s Budget is the first step in refreshing Singapore’s strategies for a more uncertain and fractured world, he said on Feb 12.

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Chin Hui Shan, Ian Cheng, Raul Dancel, Fatimah Mujibah, Daniel Lai, Vihanya Rakshika

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Published: Feb 12, 2026

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Follow ST's live coverage.","ogDescription":"This year’s Budget is the first step in refreshing Singapore’s strategies for a more uncertain and fractured world, he said on Feb 12. Follow ST's live coverage.","jsonLd":"{\"@context\":\"https:\\/\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"LiveBlogPosting\",\"@id\":\"https:\\/\\/www.straitstimes.com\\/live-singapore-budget-2026-pm-wong\",\"headline\":\"Live: PM Lawrence Wong to deliver Singapore Budget 2026\",\"description\":\"PM Lawrence Wong delivers his Budget statement at 3.30pm. Follow ST's live coverage.\",\"coverageStartTime\":\"2026-02-12T10:00:00+08:00\",\"coverageEndTime\":\"2026-02-12T22:00:00+08:00\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\/\\/www.straitstimes.com\\/assets\\/ST-logo-default-aoeSLh4S.png\",\"width\":\"1228\",\"height\":\"96\"}},\"liveBlogUpdate\":[{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Is Singapore moving towards growth at all cost?\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T17:05:00+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T18:41:17+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"One typical debate around a Budget with a strong economic focus is whether Singapore is pressing towards \\u201cgrowth at all cost\\u201d.This is a narrative that suggests the pursuit of growth creates social strain, widens inequality and leaves many unable to keep up. For a fast-growing advanced economy, without taxes and transfers, this can be true.Yet the picture that has come into sharper focus across successive Budgets since the Covid-19 pandemic is one of active government intervention \\u2013 to erect safety nets, aid with cost of living and invest in human capital while still shoring up healthcare. Just look at how much the Budget has grown \\u2013 to around 1\\u00bd times today compared with the 2020 financial year.All this is possible only because of a good pace of economic growth and net returns on our reserves, and Singaporeans\\u2019 support to raise the goods and services tax. In fact, given what has been possible after an unexpected 5 per cent gross domestic product growth in 2025, the question is whether the 2 per cent to 3 per cent GDP growth goal of the Economic Strategy Committee for the next 10 years may be too conservative.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Surplus of $8.5 billion expected for FY2026, lower than for FY2025\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:56:40+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T18:39:09+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong expects Singapore to end FY2025 with a surplus of $15.1 billion \\u2013 1.9 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP).But for FY2026, he expects a smaller surplus of $8.5 billion, or 1 per cent of Singapore\\u2019s GDP.The forecast for FY2025 comes on the back of higher revenues expected, partly due to better-than-anticipated economic performance.Another key driver is an increase in corporate income tax collections \\u2013 in FY2024, it contributed 4 per cent of Singapore\\u2019s GDP, which was significantly higher than in past years.Based on the latest estimates, this is expected to increase in FY2025, PM Wong said.There was also strong demand for private vehicles and properties, which translated into higher asset-related revenue collections such as vehicle quota premiums and stamp duty.READ MORE: SMEs seek cost relief, trade chambers focus on industry needs\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"At a glance: Budget 2026\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T17:54:25+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T18:25:48+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"What\\u2019s in store for Singaporeans:$500 CDC vouchers for all Singaporean households in January 2027. Eligible HDB households will get up to $570 U-Save rebates in 2026$500 in Child LifeSG credits for each Singaporean child aged 12 and belowMonthly household income threshold will be raised for means-tested pre-school subsidies and student care fee assistance to $15,000 and $6,500, respectivelyCPF top-up of up to $1,500 for Singaporeans aged 50 and above who do not meet the Basic Retirement SumNew voluntary CPF investment scheme to be introduced for members to grow retirement savings$200 to $400 cash for Cost-of-Living Special Payment to eligible Singaporean adultsWhat\\u2019s in store for companies:40 per cent corporate income tax rebate for 2026. The total benefit for each company is to be capped at $30,000$1 billion boost for a scheme to fund promising start-ups as part of a $37 billion research and development planSecond $1.5 billion tranche for fund to attract high-quality Singapore Exchange listings; Financial Sector Development Fund to also receive $1.5 billion top-upWhat\\u2019s in store for workers:Local Qualifying Salary for local staff to be raised to $1,800; Progressive Wage Credit Scheme co-funding support to go up to 30 per centSkillsFuture and Workforce Singapore to be merged into new statutory board under the Ministry of Manpower and Ministry of EducationMinimum qualifying salary to be raised to $6,000 for Employment Pass and $3,600 for S Pass from 2027Embracing AIPM Wong to chair new National AI Council; a new set of national AI missions will be launched to drive transformation in key sectorsLarger AI park to be established in one-north; new cluster will translate AI initiatives into practical solutions for businesses and public servicesFree access to premium AI tools for Singaporeans who take up selected AI training coursesTaxes on cars and tobaccoThe Preferential Additional Registration Fee will be reduced by 45 percentage points for all cars registered with certificates of entitlement obtained from the next bidding exercise20 per cent increase in tax on tobacco productsREAD MORE: All the highlights you need to knowST PHOTOS: KUA CHEE SIONG, GAVIN FOO, JASEL POH, LIM YAOHUI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ling Chang Hong\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Beginning the government term on firm fiscal footing\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T17:00:02+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T18:15:01+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong said the Government expects both revenues and expenditures to continue rising and that it will manage the increase carefully.Singapore\\u2019s sound public finances give the country the ability to act decisively and to invest where it matters the most \\u2013 a very different position from many other countries constrained by debt and deficit pressures, he said.He added that this term of government begins on a firm fiscal footing, where it is able to invest meaningfully and responsibly in policies and programmes that benefit all Singaporeans, both now and in the years ahead.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"20% increase in tax on tobacco products from today\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:56:26+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:54:49+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\" PM Wong said that to discourage the consumption of tobacco products, he will raise tobacco duties by 20 per cent across all such products from today.READ MORE: Smokers to pay 20% more for tobacco products from Feb 12ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Revision of Preferential Additional Registration Fee rebate and cap\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:56:22+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:54:32+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Preferential Additional Registration Fee (PARF) rebate cap will be reduced from $60,000 to $30,000, and will apply to all cars registered with certificates of entitlement (COEs) obtained from the next bidding exercise, said PM Wong.Additionally, as electric vehicles, which are less pollutive than conventional cars, become more commonplace, the need to encourage early deregistration through the PARF rebate is reduced, he said.Thus, PARF, which is intended to encourage the timely renewal of the vehicle population, will be reduced by 45 percentage points.For cars that do not need a COE for registration, such as taxis and COE-exempt cars, the revised PARF rebate schedule and cap of $30,000 will apply to those that are registered on or after Feb 13.The revised PARF rebate schedule and cap do not apply to vehicles that are not eligible for PARF rebates, such as goods-cum-passenger vehicles (GPVs), classic and vintage cars, and vehicles that have been laid up.The revised PARF rebate schedule and cap are as follows:READ MORE: PARF rebate for deregistering cars reduced, maximum amount halved to $30,000ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ian Cheng\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Higher corporate tax collections, but growing spending needs\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:59:14+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:46:56+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Beyond Budget 2026, Singapore\\u2019s public finances remain sound and resilient, PM Wong said.Higher corporate tax collections are expected from the 2027 financial year onwards as Singapore proceeds with a domestic top-up tax that will raise large multinational enterprises\\u2019 effective tax rate here to 15 per cent as part of a global framework for the reform of international tax rules \\u2013 BEPS.But Singapore\\u2019s spending needs will also be growing across multiple fronts:External relations and security: the country needs to invest more in expanding overseas partnerships and building deeper capabilities to keep Singapore safe and prepared for emerging threatsEconomy: to remain attractive for investments, Singapore needs to update and strengthen its investment promotion toolkit amid a competitive landscapeSocial needs: aside from the already anticipated higher healthcare spending, Singapore needs to strengthen assurance for families, enhance social mobility and boost retirement adequacyLonger-term challenges: Singapore has set aside resources for major future needs and will make further top-ups via Budget 2026 to support the development of Changi Airport and longer-term economic strategies.READ MORE: Businesses get tax rebate, enhanced grants to cope with costs and competition\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Singapore\\u2019s prudent fiscal approach a core strength\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:50:55+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:44:39+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Turning to Singapore\\u2019s fiscal position, PM Wong said that Singapore\\u2019s prudent fiscal approach remains one of the country\\u2019s core strengths, with the Government managing public finances with discipline and care.This ensures revenues are enough to meet expenditures and that every dollar is used responsibly.Singapore\\u2019s tax and transfer system is fair, progressive and anchored on shared responsibility, giving the country capability and confidence to move forward, he said.ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ian Cheng\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"More avenues for youth to shape Singapore\\u2019s future\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:49:29+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:39:16+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Government will continue to partner young people and open up more avenues for them to shape the country\\u2019s future, PM Wong said.Youth Panels have enabled young Singaporeans to work with the Government on issues that matter to them, he added.In the first round, 120 young people contributed across four Panels.The next round of Youth Panels will be launched later in 2026, which will enable more youth to step forward and make a difference.More details will be shared during the debate on the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth\\u2019s budget.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"More access to affordable and quality sports facilities\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:45:34+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:38:23+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong said that in the sports sector, the Sports Facilities Master Plan will continue to be rolled out, so that Singaporeans can more easily access affordable and quality sports facilities.He added that there are plans to open the new Punggol Regional Sports Centre, the Toa Payoh Integrated Development and sport facilities in Farrer Park and Tengah, as well as revamped sport centres in Hougang and Queenstown.PM Wong added that the Government will expand the Dual-Use Scheme, so that Singaporeans can conveniently access sports facilities in schools.READ MORE: $50m set aside to fund ground-up community projects in SingaporeST PHOTO: AZMI ATHNI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"$1.5b top-up to Financial Sector Development Fund\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:50:36+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:36:24+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong said more efforts will be taken to strengthen Singapore\\u2019s broader equities market.In 2025, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) launched the Equity Market Development Programme to develop the Republic\\u2019s fund management industry and increase investor participation in its equities.Industry response has been encouraging, he noted.With MAS having allocated $4 billion to nine asset managers, PM Wong announced that he will expand the programme with a $1.5 billion top-up to the Financial Sector Development Fund.He added that the Government was also implementing the Equities Market Review Group\\u2019s other recommendations, including streamlining listing rules and requirements that make it easier for high-growth companies to go public.READ MORE: Singapore equities market to get additional $1.5b boost\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"New SG Partnerships Fund to be launched\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:49:02+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:36:09+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"A new $50 million initiative, the SG Partnerships Fund, is aimed at catalysing ground-up initiatives and help them build sustained capabilities and impact.It will provide differentiated tiers of funding over different timeframes, including grants of up to $1 million for larger, multi-year projects.It follows feedback on how Our Singapore Fund can be improved \\u2013 including the need for larger grant amounts, longer funding horizons and broader eligibility.Introduced in 2016, Our Singapore Fund has supported more than 800 ground-up projects, from community-building and sports to municipal and digital readiness initiatives, PM Wong said.In 2025, the fund received more than 250 applications.READ MORE: $50m set aside to fund ground-up community projects in SingaporeST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"PM Wong in the driver\\u2019s seat on AI missions\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:39:28+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:34:50+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"It has been more than a decade since Singapore\\u2019s Prime Minister himself and a committee of ministers rallied behind national technology projects.In his Budget 2026 speech, PM Wong named four artificial intelligence (AI) missions across the advanced manufacturing, connectivity, finance and healthcare sectors that Singapore will back on a national scale.A new National AI Council, comprising heavyweight ministers, will also be created to drive the nation\\u2019s new AI agenda. This is reminiscent of 2014, when Singapore first launched its Smart Nation plan to transform itself into a tech-enabled city.Since then, the Republic has evolved into a tech-savvy nation. Its digital way of life now spans both the public and private sectors, where cashless transactions are the norm and the use of apps for food delivery and ride-hailing is widespread.The challenge now is AI, which has threatened to displace jobs and spread misinformation. Singapore now needs to level up its digital game.Many things need to be done. Companies and citizens must use AI confidently to bring about measurable benefits. There must also be greater awareness and know-how in AI safety and responsibility.And just as in the past, participation across the whole of Singapore is crucial. And the PM has to be in the driver\\u2019s seat.READ MORE: PM Wong to chair new National AI Council to drive transformation in key sectors\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ling Chang Hong\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Corporate Volunteer Scheme to be extended until end-2029\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:47:07+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:32:25+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Also extended for another three years, till end-2029, is the Corporate Volunteer Scheme.It provides 250 per cent tax deduction when employees volunteer or are seconded to Institutions of a Public Character.The scheme was introduced to support efforts to encourage businesses to integrate giving, volunteering and socially responsible practices into their operations.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Tax deductions for qualifying donations to be extended till end-2029\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:46:14+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:29:39+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The 250 per cent tax deductions for qualifying donations to Institutions of a Public Character and eligible institutions will be extended for another three years until end-2029.The tax deductions are part of the Government\\u2019s efforts to encourage acts that nurture a strong sense of solidarity, which forms the foundation of a \\u201cWe First\\u201d society.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"S\\u2019pore making concrete progress towards net zero, advancing plans to import low-carbon electricity\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:41:11+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:27:54+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Republic has made concrete progress on its path to net zero, PM Wong said.On clean energy, Singapore\\u2019s sustained push to expand solar deployment is delivering results, he added.Singapore has reached its 2030 solar deployment target of 2 gigawatt-peak ahead of schedule.As a result, the Government will raise the target to 3 gigawatt-peak by 2030, and will continue to maximise solar deployment across all viable surfaces and progressively set more ambitious targets further into the future. The Government is also advancing plans to import low-carbon electricity from the region, PM Wong said, noting that these plans are at various stages of development.Although not all of these plans will materialise, those that do will help reduce Singapore\\u2019s carbon footprint and strengthen its energy resilience, he said.READ MORE: Singapore raises solar deployment target to 3 GWp by 2030ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Strengthening cultural and heritage institutions\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:44:41+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:25:54+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong noted that arts and heritage play an important role in building the Singapore spirit. They help us understand where we came from, express who we are today and imagine who we can become as a people, he said.He said that this is attributable to the cultural and heritage institutions that embody this approach, and hence should be strengthened.This will be done by: Opening the revamped Malay Heritage Centre later this year. Working with the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre to expand its reach and engagement.Providing more support to enhance the Indian Heritage Centre\\u2019s outreach and programming as it marks its 10th anniversary.READ MORE: $50m set aside to fund ground-up community projects in Singapore\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Govt to help businesses invest in energy-efficient and sustainable solutions\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:38:37+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:23:38+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"To help companies invest in energy-efficient and sustainable solutions, the Government will extend the Energy Efficiency Grant and support for green loans under the Enterprise Financing Scheme, which was launched in 2019.The Energy Efficiency Grant aims to support businesses in their sustainability journey by co-funding investment in energy-efficient equipment.PM Wong also highlighted the carbon tax as a key pillar of Singapore\\u2019s climate strategy.He said the carbon tax is already having an impact and noted that companies are investing more in low-carbon solutions and improving energy efficiency.For HDB households, the additional U-Save rebates will help to cushion the impact of the carbon tax, he added.READ MORE: Singapore extends Energy Efficiency Grant; green loans under Enterprise Financing Scheme \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Carbon tax rate may have to be at the lower end if global climate momentum continues to weaken\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:40:04+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:23:16+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Beyond 2027, the Government is assessing Singapore\\u2019s carbon tax trajectory carefully in the light of international developments, PM Wong said.In Asia, Singapore has the highest carbon tax rate.If global climate momentum continues to weaken, Singapore may need to position itself towards the lower end of the $50 to $80 per tonne range by 2030, he said. The tax rate has been raised to $45 per tonne for 2026 and 2027.PM Wong said Singapore\\u2019s path to net zero, looking further ahead, will depend heavily on technological breakthroughs and sustained international cooperation.Without these, he said, it will be increasingly difficult for a small, resource-constrained country such as Singapore to move further on its own.As such, the progress of Singapore\\u2019s transition to net zero may be uneven. Nonetheless, the efforts will be credible, forward-looking and aligned with global realities.READ MORE: Weak global climate action may keep 2030 carbon tax at lower end of $50 to $80 range\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Enhancements to CPF\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:25:57+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:22:47+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Government will provide a CPF top-up of up to $1,500 for Singaporeans aged 50 and above with CPF retirement savings below the Basic Retirement Sum. Those with lower balances will receive larger top-ups.The next step of planned CPF contribution rate increases for senior workers will take place in 2027, with employers continuing to receive the CPF Transition Offset to cover half of the increase in employee contributions for 2027.The Government will also shape and develop life-cycle investment products where members take on more risk when they are younger, and their investments are rebalanced towards safer assets as they approach retirement.A key requirement of such products will be that fees must be kept low, with the Government choosing two or three credible providers for this voluntary scheme. The Government will also strengthen efforts to help members understand whether this option is suitable for them.READ MORE: CPF top-ups for seniors with lower savings; higher CPF contributions for senior workers and CPF Board to introduce new investment scheme in 2028PHOTO: ST FILE\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Retreating from climate action not an option, even as some govts scale back\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:37:39+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:21:35+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Singapore will not retreat from climate action, even as some governments scale back on climate ambitions, PM Wong said.He cited how countries were unable to agree on concrete decarbonisation road maps at the 30th Conference of the Parties in Brazil and how the International Maritime Organization delayed adoption of its net-zero framework, as member states could not reach consensus.Singapore will continue to do its part \\u2013 not only to address climate risks but also to secure its long-term resilience and competitiveness, he said.READ MORE: Weak global climate action may keep 2030 carbon tax at lower end of $50 to $80 range\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Singapore an \\u2018attractive target\\u2019 for cyberattacks by state-sponsored and non-state actors\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:35:53+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:20:19+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Republic has seen a sharp rise in cyberattacks by both state-sponsored and non-state actors, PM Wong said.Noting that Singapore is an \\u201cattractive target\\u201d and that attacks have become more frequent, coordinated and sophisticated, he said the Government will deepen capabilities, improve cross-agency coordination and better safeguard the Republic\\u2019s most critical systems.Defending government systems is no longer sufficient, PM Wong said. Many companies in the private sector, which play critical roles in delivering essential services, are likewise vulnerable to such attacks.But many of these companies do not have the resources or expertise to deal with advanced cyberthreats.The Government will therefore deepen partnerships with industry, in particular owners of critical information infrastructure.READ MORE: Singapore expects security-related expenditure to rise in coming years\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"PM Wong concludes his Budget 2026 speech\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T17:01:42+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:20:06+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong concluded the Budget speech by noting that the nation has come a long way from its humble and tumultuous beginnings.He attributed the growth to Singaporeans stepping forward and taking responsibility, contributing what they could and doing their part to shape the future.PM Wong reiterated that Singaporeans cannot afford to be mere spectators and must be active participants by looking out for one another, strengthening social bonds and contributing to the nation.He said Budget 2026 is to support Singaporeans today and prepare for tomorrow.Together, we will secure a stronger, fairer and brighter future for all, he added.READ MORE: Goodies S\\u2019poreans stand to get \\u2013 from CDC vouchers to LifeSG credits for children\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Eligible HDB households to receive up to $570 of U-Save rebates\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:30:25+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:17:27+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"There will be additional U-Save rebates to help households with their utilities expenses, said PM Wong.Eligible HDB households will receive 1\\u00bd times the regular amounts of U-Save rebates, or up to $570, in financial year 2026.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Renew and strengthen the Singapore spirit \",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:43:38+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:13:32+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong said Singapore\\u2019s greatest strength lies not just in the policies and plans, but also in the spirit of the people. Societies worldwide are becoming more divided and ungovernable. We cannot let this happen in Singapore, he said. It is therefore important to continue to invest in renewing and strengthening the bonds that bind Singaporeans.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"40 per cent corporate income tax rebate\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:37:39+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:11:39+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Companies will enjoy a in the 2026 year of assessment, PM Wong said.Each active company that employed at least one local employee in 2025 will receive a minimum benefit of $1,500, with the total benefit for each company capped at $30,000, he added.The measure will provide short-term relief, he said, noting that some businesses continue to face cost pressures and operating challenges despite the economy performing well in 2025.READ MORE: Businesses get tax rebate, enhanced grants to cope with costs and competition\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Govt to invest $37 billion under Research, Innovation and Enterprise plan\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:45:26+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:10:31+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong noted the importance of establishing leadership in key industry clusters.Citing semiconductors, he said the key frontier in this industry is Advanced Packaging \\u2013 which integrates multiple chips into a single package using highly precise manufacturing technologies.He added that Singapore began investing in this more than 20 years ago \\u2013 before it became a global priority. It has now taken off.PM Wong said other key industries, including aerospace and biomedical sciences, are also good opportunities.He then announced that the Government will invest $37 billion under the Research, Innovation and Enterprise, or RIE 2030 plan.This reflects Singapore\\u2019s sustained commitment to research and innovation, amounting to around 1 per cent of gross domestic product each year, he added.But we must be realistic, PM Wong said, adding that our investments must be disciplined, focused and strategic.READ MORE: PM Wong outlines plan to keep S\\u2019pore a global innovation hub; growth areas include quantum techPHOTO: ST FILE\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Monthly household income threshold raised for pre-school subsidies and student care fee assistance\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:20:40+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:10:19+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"From the start of 2027, the Government will extend means-tested pre-school subsidies to more families by raising the monthly household income threshold to $15,000. This will benefit more than 60,000 families, said PM Wong.Eligible parents, including those who previously qualified, can also receive more in infant care and childcare subsidies.The monthly household income threshold for Student Care Fee Assistance will be raised to $6,500, so that more families can qualify.PM Wong said the Government is taking a holistic review of the student care sector to better meet the caregiving needs of families with primary school-aged children.PHOTO: ST FILEREAD MORE: $500 Child LifeSG credits for S\\u2019porean kids under 12; more to get pre-school subsidies\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Harnessing potential of AI\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:53:14+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:09:59+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Artificial intelligence (AI) holds immense potential, but it also comes with deep concerns, PM Wong said.He noted that AI has the capacity to boost productivity, drive new discoveries and change lives in ways that are still unfolding.But he cautioned that deep concerns accompany that potential.Among them are possible job displacement, the spread of misinformation, embedded bias and ethical questions surrounding the use of increasingly powerful technologies.PM Wong said those fears are genuine and Singapore has to address them directly.ST PHOTO: GAVIN FOOREAD MORE: Singapore to invest $1 billion over 5 years to boost AI public research\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Greening efforts in transport, aviation and maritime sectors\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:42:11+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:09:54+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"In transport, the Republic remains committed to achieving 100 per cent cleaner energy vehicles by 2040, PM Wong said.He added that incentives are in place to encourage early adoption of electric vehicles, and charging infrastructure is being expanded nationwide.In the aviation sector, the Government is supporting demand for sustainable aviation fuel, with a target of 1 per cent sustainable fuel use for flights departing from Singapore in 2026.In the shipping sector, the Government is partnering industry to develop a low-carbon ammonia bunkering solution on Jurong Island.If successful, Singapore will be among the first countries in the world to supply ammonia commercially as a fuel for international shipping, PM Wong said. ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Singapore to establish National AI Council\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:56:52+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:09:48+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Singapore will establish a National AI Council to provide strategic direction and drive the country\\u2019s AI agenda.PM Wong will chair this council.The new council reflects a coordinated national effort to fully harness AI\\u2019s potential, allowing Singapore to move with speed and scale.READ MORE: Budget 2026: PM Wong to chair new National AI Council to drive transformation in key sectors\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Amendments to foreign worker policies\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:16:15+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:09:19+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"To ensure that the nation\\u2019s foreign workforce complements a strong Singaporean core, the Government will refine and update foreign workforce policies to reflect evolving conditions, PM Wong said.From January 2027, the Employment Pass minimum qualifying salary for new applicants will be raised from $5,600 to $6,000. For the financial services sector, which has higher salary norms, the minimum qualifying salary will be raised from $6,200 to $6,600.New S Pass applicants will also see the minimum qualifying salary raised from $3,300 to $3,600, and from $3,800 to $4,000 for the financial services sector from January 2027.Older applicants for both passes will also have qualifying salaries raised in tandem. For renewal applications, the changes will apply only in 2028, giving businesses more time to adjust.READ MORE: Salary threshold for new Employment Pass applicants to be raised to $6,000 from 2027\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ian Cheng\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"S\\u2019pore actively pursuing possibilities to further diversify energy mix, including nuclear power\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:41:31+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:08:33+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Republic is actively pursuing possibilities to further diversify its energy mix, be it through hydrogen, geothermal energy or civilian nuclear power, PM Wong said.Singapore is building up capabilities in nuclear energy to be able to assess its safety and viability for the country, he added.Cooperation has been initiated with the US and France, PM Wong said, adding that the Government is discussing similar arrangements with other partners such as South Korea.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Govt to study changing nature of warfare, invest in defence capabilities\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:33:58+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T17:03:06+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Government will carefully study developments in the changing nature of warfare and invest decisively in defence capabilities, PM Wong said. This includes strengthening the Republic\\u2019s ability to deploy, counter and operate alongside unmanned systems across all domains.This comes as unmanned aerial systems are now a common feature of modern conflict, reflecting the evolving nature of warfare.These systems have been used not only for surveillance, but also for precision strikes, electronic warfare and coordinated operations, he said.By using drones, which are cheaper, more accessible and increasingly sophisticated, even smaller actors can project force in new ways, he added.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Singapore to harness AI to shape its future\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:05:58+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:58:53+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Singapore will harness AI as a strategic advantage to shape its own future and secure its place in a changed world, said PM Wong.He said the country will not be passive in the face of rapid changes.\\u201cWe will adapt. We will compete. We will continue to move forward with confidence,\\u201d he said.READ MORE: How Singapore will build its AI capabilities\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"New investment scheme for CPF members to earn higher returns than existing interest rates\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:34:24+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:57:45+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The new scheme aims to cater to younger members who hope to earn returns that are higher than the guaranteed 2.5 per cent and 4 per cent interest of the CPF Ordinary and Special accounts respectively, but yet don\\u2019t have the expertise nor time to manage their investment.Age is a big consideration because such products typically require time, such as up to 20 years, to ride out market volatility due to global events to deliver better long-term returns.Those aged between 20 and 45 are well-placed to take advantage of the scheme so that they can cash out and use the hopefully higher returns to join the CPF Life national annuity at a higher sum to receive more monthly payouts after 65.Older members can also invest because there is no fixed lock-in period for such products. But before they put in their money, it is prudent to consider their risk appetite as well as time horizon because the premature cashing out of any long-term investment can result in poor returns or even losses.If you prefer a risk-free way to earn more, you can just continue to make sure your CPF accounts continue to grow from employers\\u2019 monthly contributions or voluntary self-top-ups to earn the guaranteed and decent interest rates.READ MORE: 3 things CPF members should know about the new investment scheme\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Strengthening support for lower-wage workers\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:08:12+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:57:32+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Local Qualifying Salary (LQS) will be raised from $1,600 to $1,800 in 2026. The LQS sets the minimum salary that full-time local employees must be paid in firms that hire foreign workers.To help businesses defray some of the cost, the Progressive Wage Credit Scheme (PWCS) co-funding support will be raised from 20 per cent to 30 per cent. It will also be extended for two more years to 2028.From 2027, the Government will raise the minimum wage increase to qualify for PWCS support from $100 to $200 to encourage and reward companies that invest in their workers.Additionally, the Government will also enhance the basic tier of the Workfare Skills Support scheme, announced in 2025, and increase the hourly allowance for workers who upgrade their skills.READ MORE: More support for lower-wage, mid-career and older workers\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ian Cheng\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Merger of SkillsFuture S\\u2019pore, Workforce S\\u2019pore signals shift to training for job outcomes instead of interest\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:32:03+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:55:45+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The merger of SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) and Workforce Singapore signals that skills training has to translate into job outcomes for Singaporeans.Bringing the two agencies together under one name is a move to tighten the link between skills training and employment. Marrying skills development with job needs should ensure that the workforce remains not just up to date in skills but also gainfully employed in a rapidly changing economy with disruptions such as artificial intelligence.Recent data from SSG on Feb 9 supports this trajectory. In the past year, 123,000 individuals enrolled in training courses with a direct impact on their employability, more than in previous years.SSG has also pushed for training providers to deliver more industry-relevant courses and supported individuals financially through the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Training Allowance for Singaporeans aged 40 and above. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Liaw Wy Cin\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Overall security-related expenditures expected to rise amid sharp rise in cyberattacks\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:36:35+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:51:10+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Amid a sharp rise in cyberattacks by state-sponsored and non-state actors, sustained investment in Singapore\\u2019s security is important, PM Wong said.For now, the Government spends about 3 per cent of gross domestic product on defence, but is prepared to spend more if the need arises.Security efforts extend beyond MINDEF alone and include investments in the security of Singapore\\u2019s critical infrastructure and in the Home Team, PM Wong said.Taken together, overall security-related expenditures are expected to rise in the coming years to keep Singapore safe and secure in a far more complex threat environment, he added.READ MORE: S\\u2019pore expects security-related expenditure to rise in coming yearsST PHOTO: CHONG JUN LIANG\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"All S\\u2019porean households to receive $500 in CDC vouchers in January 2027\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:30:51+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:50:25+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Government will provide another $500 in CDC vouchers for all Singaporean households in January 2027.Similar to previous rounds of CDC vouchers, half can be used at participating supermarkets, while the other half can be used at participating heartland merchants and hawkers, said PM Wong.READ MORE: $500 CDC vouchers for all Singaporean households in Jan 2027 ST PHOTO: GIN TAY\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Giving families more support, greater assurance\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:18:02+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:45:17+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Budget 2026 aims to give families more support and greater assurance, said PM Wong.Through Forward Singapore, Singapore has made significant moves in recent years to support Singaporeans and their families.The Government has also ramped up the supply of HDB flats to ensure that public housing remains accessible and affordable for couples and families.ST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Singapore responsible for its own defence and survival in \\u2018more dangerous\\u2019 world\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:32:36+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:44:35+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Singapore cannot depend on others in a crisis and must be responsible for its defence and survival, said PM Wong, and must be prepared for a wider range of security challenges.The world has become more dangerous in recent years, with a record 61 state-based armed conflicts worldwide in 2024. Conflicts have also hit closer to home, with the Thailand-Cambodia dispute cited as an example.Describing these developments as \\u201cdeeply troubling\\u201d, PM Wong said it reflects a shrinking space for negotiation, a greater willingness to use force and a higher risk of miscalculation.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Playing a key part in climate action\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:39:03+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:39:03+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Singapore will continue to contribute responsibly to climate action, PM Wong said, noting that the Republic\\u2019s actions alone cannot determine global outcomes.It will calibrate its moves cautiously \\u2013 doing its part to reduce emissions as a global citizen while taking into account what other countries are doing, he said.This is so that the country does not put itself at a competitive disadvantage.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"SkillsFuture website redesigned to be more AI-learning friendly\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:04:54+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:38:22+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Every Singaporean can, on their own, learn and pick up AI-related skills, using chatbots such as ChatGPT and Gemini, PM Wong said.These tools, he said, can do much more with the right guidance, helping users analyse information, generate ideas and solve problems.To aid the learning process, the Government will redesign the SkillsFuture website to make AI learning pathways clearer and easier to access, allowing Singaporeans to quickly find courses that match their work needs and proficiency levels.READ MORE: Companies to receive tax deductions on AI spending, more support to employ tools\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"SkillsFuture Singapore and Workforce Singapore to merge\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:11:35+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:36:37+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong said that Singapore has achieved its objective of embedding lifelong learning within its education system via Skillsfuture, with working adults at all stages of their careers being able to access a wide range of high-quality training options.As a result, SkillsFuture Singapore and Workforce Singapore will be merging into a new statutory board, jointly overseen by the Ministry of Manpower and the Ministry of Education.The merger will strengthen the integration of Singapore\\u2019s jobs-skills ecosystem.The new agency will better position the Government to align future skills with future job needs, delivering more seamless end-to-end career and employment services for Singaporean workers.A single agency overseeing jobs and skills will also allow the Government to respond faster and more effectively to changes in the fast-evolving economy and labour market.WSG and SSG will continue to provide their usual services until the new agency is ready to take over these functions.All WSG and SSG officers will also be supported through the transition, including by providing opportunities to reskill and take on suitable new roles in the new agency or other agencies, if necessary.More details on the new agency will be shared at MOM\\u2019s and MOE\\u2019s Budget debates.READ MORE: into new statutory boardST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ian Cheng\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"$200 to $400 in cash under Cost-of-Living Special Payment to eligible Singaporeans\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:30:08+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:34:30+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Government will provide a Cost-of-Living Special Payment, comprising $200 to $400 in cash, to Singaporean adults who earn up to $100,000 in assessable income and do not own more than one property, said PM Wong.Although inflation has eased in recent years, many Singaporeans still face anxieties and pressures, said PM Wong, adding that the Government will continue to provide additional support in 2026.The Government will continue to do whatever is necessary to help Singaporeans manage cost pressures for as long as it is needed, he said.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Extra $500 a \\u2018sweetener\\u2019 to keep low-income families working towards goals \",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:23:36+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:31:45+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"A scheme to give low-income families a leg up in life has received a major upgrade, presumably in a bid to get more of them to sign up.The $500 that ComLink+ families will get every quarter is a sweetener of sorts to motivate them to keep working with family coaches to send their children to pre-school regularly or find a stable CPF-paying job, for instance.Perhaps the strongest draw for these families is that more of the payouts will be in cash instead of CPF or other forms of top-ups. For families living from hand to mouth, nothing beats cash.The enhancements come in the wake of new data showing that it has become more challenging for children born to the poorest families to break out of the poverty trap.The moves come less than two years after the first of four ComLink+ progress packages was rolled out in August 2024.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Liaw Wy Cin\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Additional $500 in Child LifeSG credits to help defray day-to-day household expenses\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:19:10+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:31:20+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"In Budget 2025, $500 was announced under Child LifeSG credits for each Singaporean child aged 12 and below. This was to help parents defray their day-to-day household expenses.In Budget 2026, the Government will provide another $500 in Child LifeSG credits to families for each Singaporean child aged 12 and below. READ MORE: $500 Child LifeSG credits for S\\u2019porean kids under 12; more to get pre-school subsidies\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"$400m top-up for Long-Term Care Support Fund \",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:24:59+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:30:27+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Government will provide more support for seniors so that they can age with dignity, security and peace of mind, said PM Wong.CareShield Life had recently been enhanced to offer higher payouts, giving seniors greater assurance against long-term care costs.The Government also increased CareShield Life premium subsidies to help cushion the impact of the higher premiums, he said.To fund the additional subsidies, PM Wong said the Government will top up the Long-Term Care Support Fund by $400 million.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Families under ComLink+ can receive around $10k a year in cash and CPF top-ups\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:23:15+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:29:12+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Government will provide a new payout of $500 per quarter for all ComLink+ families who commit to working with family coaches and take active steps to make progress.PM Wong said the Government will also enhance the additional payouts families receive when they make concrete progress in their goals of maintaining stable employment and good pre-school attendance for their children.The Government will also provide more of these payouts in cash while continuing to set aside money in CPF accounts. This will help families meet immediate needs while also building their longer-term financial security, PM Wong said.With these enhancements, a family with two children in pre-school under ComLink+ can receive around $10,000 per year in cash and CPF top-ups.READ MORE: New $500 payout for ComLink+ families, more cash support in current packages\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Task force to review support for people with disabilities and their families\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:24:24+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:28:55+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"More will be done for people with disabilities, as well as their families and caregivers, said PM Wong.Minister of State for Home Affairs and Social and Family Development Goh Pei Ming is leading a task force to review how the Government can provide more meaningful support at different life stages for people with disabilities and their families.This includes expanding capacity in community-based facilities, keeping services affordable, and supporting graduates of special education schools to secure meaningful employment and live well in the community.Strengthening support for people with disabilities is a key priority and a shared responsibility for everyone, said PM Wong, adding that the Government is ready to set aside additional resources to advance these efforts.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Singapore to establish AI park at One-North\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:00:33+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:28:15+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Singapore will establish a larger AI park in One-North to serve as a focal point for building a vibrant AI-enabled economy.The AI park will act as a hub to spark ideas, build partnerships and turn AI initiatives into practical solutions for businesses and public services.It will build on the Lorong AI initiative, which is currently a dedicated co-working space for Singapore\\u2019s AI economy.READ MORE: Companies to receive tax deductions on AI spending, more support to adopt tools \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Work permit levies to be adjusted\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:16:46+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:27:53+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Government will be adjusting work permit levies:Marine and process sectors: The levies for basic-skilled workers in these sectors will be raised by $100 and $150 respectively.Manufacturing and services sectors: The current tiered levy structure will be simplified.These changes will apply only in 2028 to give businesses more time to adjust.The Manpower Ministry will share more details at the 2026 Committee of Supply debate.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ian Cheng\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Enterprise Innovation Scheme to be expanded\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:58:40+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:26:55+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Enterprise Innovation Scheme will be expanded to include AI expenditures as a qualifying activity for the 2027 and 2028 years of assessment, capped at $50,000 per year of assessment.The scheme provides businesses with 400 per cent tax deductions on qualifying expenditures in activities such as research and development, innovation and capability development.READ MORE: Companies to receive tax deductions on AI spending, more support to adopt tools\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Singaporeans to get 6 months' free access to premium AI tools\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:05:37+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:26:04+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Government will provide six months of free access to premium AI tools for Singaporeans taking up selected AI training courses, said PM Wong.He said providing free access to more advanced, subscription-only AI models will encourage hands-on learning.This will allow Singaporeans to practise, experiment and apply what they have learnt.This initiative involves the Ministry of Digital Development and Information, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Manpower, and Ministry of Trade and Industry. READ MORE: Workers to get help building practical AI capabilities, starting with accountancy and law\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"External developments will directly affect Singaporeans\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:35:13+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:25:48+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong said there have been events in January alone that have increased geopolitical tensions worldwide. He expects rising public debt in many major economies to strain financial stability and weigh on longer-term growth prospects.He warned that such external developments would directly impact Singaporeans.PM Wong said the resilient global economy and Singapore\\u2019s economic strength led to a growth of 5 per cent in 2025.He noted that this positive momentum will continue into this year, but there should also be expectations of a more moderate outlook for the year.Growth is projected at 2 per cent to 4 per cent, with inflation expected to be between 1 per cent and 2 per cent, he added.READ MORE: Budget 2026 lays groundwork to refresh Singapore\\u2019s strategies for a more uncertain world: PM WongPHOTO: ST FILE\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Opinion: Tough choices in balancing current and future needs, says NMP Terence Ho\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T11:00:02+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:25:18+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Government will have tough choices to make on how to utilise a likely larger budget surplus, while balancing future and current needs, Nominated MP Terence Ho noted.Replenishing the reserves would strengthen Singapore\\u2019s ability to respond to future shocks, he said in his commentary for The Straits Times ahead of Budget 2026. \\u201cThe reserves are not just a form of insurance. They also generate investment income,\\u201d he said. But saving for future needs should not come at the expense of meeting pressing societal needs or investing in the infrastructure and capabilities required to secure Singapore\\u2019s future, Mr Ho added.He also called for the mitigation of income and wealth inequality to be addressed in Budget 2026, in line with aspirations for an inclusive society expressed by Singaporeans in the Forward Singapore exercise.READ MORE: After a strong year, this Singapore Budget faces tough choicesST PHOTO: KELVIN CHNG\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Equipping students and workers with AI-related skills\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:03:40+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:23:41+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Singapore must prepare both its future workforce and those already working for a world where AI is gaining significance, said PM Wong.The Government will strengthen AI literacy for students across all institutes of higher learning, so that they will learn to use AI wisely, and not as a shortcut.Workers, meanwhile, will receive help when using AI to take over routine tasks, so that they can focus their time and energy on work that requires judgment, creativity and human insight \\u2013 tasks that cannot be replaced by machines.PM Wong cited accountancy as an example, where AI is used to automate large parts of data consolidation, preparation and bookkeeping, allowing accountants to spend more time on tasks where professional expertise and trust matter most.READ MORE: Workers to get help building practical AI capabilities, starting with accountancy and lawST PHOTO: JASEL POH\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Families under ComLink+ paired with family coach to develop action plans, coordinate support\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:21:22+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:22:28+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Government will continue to help lower-income families, especially those with young children, move towards greater stability, self-reliance and social mobility, PM Wong said.The Government takes a family-centric approach to support such families, he said, adding that under ComLink+, each family is paired with a dedicated family coach, who works with them to develop personalised action plans and coordinate support.Progress Packages were introduced to recognise and reinforce families\\u2019 efforts. These are more than financial assistance, PM Wong said, adding that they are like social contracts, where family coaches work with families to set clear goals such as securing a stable job.The families receive additional payouts when such milestones are achieved, he added.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Government ready to enhance ComLink+ Progress Packages\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:22:21+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:22:21+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"ComLink+ is built around close and sustained support for families and relies on dedicated family coaches, case workers from family service centres and volunteer befrienders who work directly with families to help them make steady progress, PM Wong said.Over time, the Government has strengthened its capabilities on the ground and is now ready to enhance the ComLink+ Progress Packages, he said.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Keeping pre-school and student care affordable\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:20:13+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:21:08+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Pre-school fee caps have been reduced over the years, PM Wong said, adding that subsidies have been increased.Childcare fees for dual-income families are comparable to primary school and after-school student care fees, he added.Lower- and middle-income families also receive means-tested subsidies, which further reduce out-of-pocket expenses, PM Wong noted ahead of announcing measures that will help parents better meet the caregiving needs of their young children.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"vihanya\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Singapore has signalled a clear ambition to become an AI-powered economy\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:14:03+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:20:44+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Becoming an AI economy looks to be the centrepiece of this Budget so far. PM Wong\\u2019s vision recognises how AI can turbocharge Singapore\\u2019s economic strategy at two levels: At the macro level, our fresh ambition to become \\u201ca trusted hub where companies and researchers come together to develop, test and deploy impactful AI solutions\\u201d. And at the micro level, where companies and workers leverage AI to transform operations and improve productivity.We have a long journey ahead. The fresh scaffolding PM Wong announced today is a good first step. These include a National AI Council chaired by PM Wong himself, which shows strong political commitment; a Champions of AI programme and the expansion of the Productivity Solutions Grant to incentivise and support enterprise adoption; and a redesign of the SkillsFuture scheme to make AI learning easier to access.These are promising steps because the key thing now is to create sufficient forward momentum and demonstrate replicable quick wins.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ling Chang Hong\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Senior Employment Credit to be extended \",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:14:30+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:16:32+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Ministry of Manpower will be extending the Senior Employment Credit (SEC) to end-2027, said PM Wong.The scheme helps defray the wage costs employers bear for hiring Singaporeans aged 60 and above who earn under $4,000 a month,He previously extended the SEC by one year to Dec 31, 2026, in last year\\u2019s Budget.Also, the Tripartite Workgroup on Senior Employment will be releasing its findings later this year. It was convened to review senior employment policies to improve the employability of seniors and increase the availability of jobs that better suit their needs.PM Wong also said that the Mid-Career Training Allowance will be extended to those who take up part-time training.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ian Cheng\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Tax rebates, enhanced grants to help Singapore businesses cope with rising cost and competition\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:45:21+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:14:49+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong announced a 40 per cent rebate on corporate income tax to help companies manage cost pressures and stay competitive.And companies seeking to venture abroad will get even more support in the form of higher grants and financing on loans.The corporate income tax rebate will be automatically given - starting second quarter of calendar 2026 - to every active company that employed at least one local employee in 2025.The minimum rebate a company may receive is set at $1,500, while the total rebate benefit will not exceed $30,000.PM Wong said the measures were part of Singapore's efforts to refresh its economic strategy which seeks to encourage businesses to restructure and transform as the global economy becomes more challenging. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ling Chang Hong\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Welcome to The Straits Times\\u2019 live coverage of Parliament and Budget 2026\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T10:00:01+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:14:27+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Parliament will be in session from 1.30pm today, before Prime Minister Lawrence Wong delivers his Budget speech at 3.30pm, with updates from both to be posted here on our live blog. Topics tabled for discussion in Parliament include measures to protect the public from the Nipah virus, transboundary haze and price pressures stemming from tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump.Thereafter, PM Wong\\u2019s speech will be live-streamed on ST\\u2019s website and social media channels.Video highlights of his speech and in-depth analyses will follow, exploring what the Budget means for Singaporeans.Stay updated through our Facebook and X accounts, as well as our Instagram, Telegram, TikTok and WhatsApp channels. Visit our Budget 2026 microsite for more reports and analyses.READ MORE: Get live updates on PM Lawrence Wong\\u2019s speech on Feb 12ST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ling Chang Hong\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Workers will not be left behind or alone amid AI adoption\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:02:04+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:12:55+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Just as businesses are supported in adopting AI, workers must receive equal \\u2013 if not greater \\u2013 attention, said PM Wong.He said the Government will equip Singaporeans with new skills, help them move into new roles and use AI to work more productively.Singapore will not allow technological change to disadvantage its workforce, he stressed.If jobs are displaced, transitions will be managed carefully in partnership with the NTUC and unions to move workers into new opportunities.PM Wong said the Government will stand with workers throughout, adding that any Singaporean willing to adapt and learn will continue to secure stable employment and a good living.ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"A fair chance to reach potential, regardless of starting point\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T16:07:26+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:11:28+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Singapore has made good progress on income growth, inequality and social mobility over the past decade, Mr Wong said, citing an occasional paper on these trends, released by the Ministry of Finance (MOF) earlier this week, with broad based wage increases and smaller income gaps.These improvements did not happen by chance, and would not have occurred on their own.PM Wong said the Government will continue to strive to ensure that all Singaporeans will have a fair chance to pursue their aspirations and realise their full potential, regardless of where they start in life.ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ian Cheng\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Productivity Solutions Grant to support wider range of solutions\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:59:50+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:03:32+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Singapore will expand the Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) to allow every firm, regardless of size, to access AI tools that will help them work smarter and compete more effectively.PM Wong cited, as an example, food and beverage company HarriAnns.Set up in the 1940s, the company, known for its freshly made nonya kueh, has adopted an AI-enabled restaurant management system to automate ordering and billing, as well as streamline operations, with support from the PSG.The company currently has eight cafes across Singapore.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Singapore to kick off Champions of AI programme\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:58:02+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:02:43+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Singapore will launch a new Champions of AI programme to help companies undertake sweeping AI transformations, PM Wong said.While many firms are experimenting with AI, few have embraced full end-to-end transformation, which requires reorganising data, overhauling systems, redesigning jobs and retraining workers.PM Wong said those that succeed will gain a decisive competitive advantage, citing companies like DBS Bank and Grab.Support in this new programme will be tailored to each company and include enterprise transformation and workforce training, PM Wong said, adding that successful participants can set industry benchmarks and spur wider adoption.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"New set of national AI missions for Singapore\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:56:37+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T16:01:55+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Realising AI\\u2019s potential must go beyond individual pilots and isolated experiments, said PM Wong.He outlined a new set of national AI missions meant to drive AI-led transformation in four key sectors: advanced manufacturing, connectivity, finance and healthcare.The goal, among others, is to build best-in-class factories; use AI to automate airport and seaport operations; and move goods more efficiently.These are not abstract aspirations, said PM Wong. Each mission will be anchored in clear objectives and tangible outcomes. Regulations will be reviewed, and sandboxes will be created. The Government will also better align its research and development, regulatory and investment promotion efforts. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Fear cannot be Singapore\\u2019s response to AI\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:55:01+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T15:57:02+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Fear cannot be Singapore\\u2019s response to artificial intelligence (AI), said PM Wong. Instead, the country needs to act with clarity and resolve to stay ahead.He said that if harnessed well, AI could help Singapore overcome its limited natural resources, a rapidly ageing population and a tight labour market.Singapore, though, must play to its strengths rather than mimic others.He stressed that the Republic\\u2019s advantage is not in developing the largest frontier models, but in deploying AI quickly, responsibly and effectively.He said Singapore can be a trusted hub where companies and researchers collaborate to develop, test and roll out impactful AI solutions, doing so with greater speed and coordination than many larger nations.More than 60 firms, including Google and Microsoft, have already established AI Centres of Excellence in Singapore.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Raul Capunpon Dancel\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Second $1.5 billion tranche of the Anchor Fund to be launched\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:49:49+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T15:49:49+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong said a more systemic approach will be taken to strengthen Singapore\\u2019s growth capital ecosystem by convening a new workgroup helmed by National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat.PM Wong cited the Anchor Fund that was set up to attract and anchor high-quality public listings, and for which Singapore is now seeing rewards.He announced that he will be launching a second $1.5 billion tranche of the Anchor Fund. As with the first tranche, this will be a co-investment between the Government and Temasek. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Govt to set aside $1 billion to enhance Startup SG Equity scheme\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:49:02+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T15:49:02+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong said efforts will also be taken to strengthen Singapore\\u2019s enterprise ecosystem.He noted that many companies still face challenges at the growth stage and later find it challenging to raise the larger and longer-term funding needed to scale.Under the Startup SG Equity scheme, the Government provides initial capital to catalyse and crowd in private funding for promising start-ups. The current scheme focused mainly on early-stage fundings.PM Wong said he will set aside $1 billion to enhance the scheme and expand its scope to cover growth-stage companies.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Singapore must stay connected to world, step up engagement in fast-growing markets\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:40:38+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T15:46:46+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Singapore must remain connected to the world and adjust to new patterns of economic flow, which are more selective, with strategic partnerships and resilience as a priority.PM Wong said that was the reason behind the Republic forging new forms of cooperation with partners who share its commitment, citing the Future of Investment and Trade Partnership, which was established in 2025, as an example.He also said Singapore will step up engagement with fast-growing markets, including countries in Latin America, Africa and the Middle East, to establish new embassies and strengthen diplomatic and economic presence on the ground.The Government is also working with our neighbours to deepen regional integration, such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and the Batam, Bintan and Karimun free trade zones in Indonesia.The measures help achieve the ambition of securing growth at the higher end of the 2 per cent to 3 per cent range over the next decade.PHOTO: BT FILE\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"More support to help companies expand overseas\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:42:55+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T15:42:55+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Doing business overseas is not easy, especially for smaller companies, as they face unfamiliar regulations and intense local competition, PM Wong noted.The Government will therefore do more to support Singapore companies as they venture abroad.Support levels for grant schemes that help companies internationalise will be enhanced \\u2013 up to 70 per cent for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and up to 50 per cent for non-SMEs.The Government will also enhance the Market Readiness Assistance grant to support companies, not just to gain access to new markets, but also to deepen activities in existing overseas markets.PM Wong said that under the double tax deduction for internationalisation scheme, companies will immediately enjoy a 200 per cent tax deduction for selected qualifying activities that are capped at $150,000.The Government will allow more qualifying activities to be eligible for such automatic tax deduction claims and raise the cap to $400,000, he said.He added that the Government will enhance the enterprise financing scheme by increasing the maximum loan quantum for trade and fixed asset loans, which gives companies more flexibility to cater to their different financing needs.PM Wong said there will also be more support for companies pursuing significant overseas expansion that require higher capital outlay.Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, who is also Minister for Trade and Industry, will share more at the Committee of Supply. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Outline of Budget 2026\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:36:54+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T15:36:54+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong said he will address the following in his speech: \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Global economy proved more resilient than anticipated\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:33:34+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T15:33:34+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong said that in 2025, there was widespread expectation that the US \\u201cLiberation Day\\u201d tariffs would trigger a sharp global slowdown. Fortunately, that did not materialise as companies adjusted quickly and trade deals helped reduce the actual impact of the tariffs.Despite mounting stresses, the global economy proved more resilient than anticipated, and the international system continued to function, he added.But this year may not be so fortunate for all, PM Wong said.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"fatimah\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"PM Wong arrives at Parliament House\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:09:54+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T15:17:48+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has arrived at Parliament House.He will deliver his Budget speech at about 3.30pm.Budget 2026 will be the first since the 2025 General Election, as well as the first in this new term of government.It will be PM Wong\\u2019s second Budget speech as prime minister, after he became Singapore\\u2019s fourth prime minister in May 2024.PM Wong is also Finance Minister. He took on the portfolio in May 2021.During GE2025, the PAP secured a clear mandate with 65.57 per cent of the popular vote, up from 61.24 per cent in the previous general election in 2020. ST PHOTO: KEVIN LIM\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"daniellai\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Question time ends\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T15:05:13+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T15:09:28+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Senior Minister of State for Health Koh Poh Koon tables the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) (Amendment) and Other Matters Bill, and the House takes a break before Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong delivers his Budget statement at 3.30pm.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"yuenc\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"More hot spot activity and hazy conditions could be expected in the coming weeks: Grace Fu\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T14:53:01+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T15:07:30+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Hot spot activity could increase in the coming weeks over nearby areas due to wind patterns and drier conditions in the current phase of the north-east monsoon, and this could result in hazy conditions affecting Singapore, says Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu.She adds that cloud seeding for rain will not be effective, as any induced rain might not fall on Singapore due to variable wind patterns.She is responding to questions from Mr Christopher de Souza (Holland-Bukit Timah GRC), Ms Joan Pereira (Tanjong Pagar GRC) and Mr Fadli Fawzi (Aljunied GRC) on the transboundary haze affecting Singapore.Mr de Souza asks how the Government is engaging \\u201cthe people creating this air pollution to reciprocate the domestic efforts of Singaporeans... of our government agencies, such that on both sides, we do not emit pollution\\u201d. Meanwhile, Mr Fadli asks if any firms inside or outside Singapore are being investigated over the haze, as well as if there has been any prosecution in the past 12 years.To these questions, Ms Fu emphasises the importance of regional cooperation and notes that no firms are being investigated over the current situation, as the threshold has not been crossed for such action.Singapore\\u2019s 24-hour PSI readings have remained in the \\u201cgood\\u201d to \\u201cmoderate\\u201d range in 2026, with a peak PSI reading of 69 on Feb 8 well within the moderate range. \\u201cHence, at this stage, the haze has not reached such levels which would warrant investigation under the Transboundary Haze Pollution Act,\\u201d she adds.Should the situation worsen, the Haze Task Force, led by the National Environment Agency and comprising 28 government agencies, will implement measures to safeguard public health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, children, and people with chronic lung and heart diseases, she adds.These measures include ensuring a sufficient supply of N95 masks and deploying indoor air purifiers where vulnerable groups are likely to congregate, such as in schools and nursing homes.ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"yuenc\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"More government disbursements, lower housing costs: ST street interview\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T13:00:17+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T14:47:39+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Bread-and-butter issues dominated the minds of those whom ST spoke to ahead of Budget 2026.They are looking forward to announcements of more government disbursements, such as CDC vouchers and MediSave top-ups, while others called for the SG Culture Pass to be continued.Some hoped that those under 40 would also be included in the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme.Also on the wish list are lower housing costs and housing subsidies for young couples.@straitstimes#Budget2026 is around the corner, what are Singaporeans looking forward to? #Singapore\\u266c original sound - The Straits Times - The Straits TimesREAD MORE: SG Culture Pass: How to spend your $100 credits\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"arshiiq\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"What is a good job? \",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T14:22:57+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T14:37:59+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"A question by Mr Kenneth Tiong (Aljunied GRC) sparks a short discussion about how a \\u201cgood job\\u201d should be defined for the purposes of measuring whether policies here have been successful in creating such jobs.The Workers\\u2019 Party MP had asked what the Ministry of Manpower\\u2019s operational definition of a \\u201cgood job\\u201d is for the purposes of the Economic Strategy Review (ESR) and what measurable indicators it will use to track whether the strategy is creating such jobs.The ESR report uses the term six times without defining it, Mr Tiong notes.Senior Minister of State for Manpower Koh Poh Koon, answering the question, says the notion of a \\u201cgood job\\u201d varies across individuals, shaped by their circumstances and aspirations.It often includes factors such as wage growth, opportunities for career development, fair and safe workplaces, personal fulfilment, and what gives someone the highest utility, among other things, he adds.Given that there are multiple dimensions to good jobs and no single, universally accepted framework for measuring job quality, Singapore looks at a range of more objectively measurable indicators and parameters such as labour market participation, labour underutilisation and earnings, he says.These are broadly aligned with the OECD framework and across these domains, Singapore generally ranks favourably relative to economies in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, he adds, noting that by these measures, workers have been seeing progress over time.He says that fundamentally, workers want to see their wages grow from year to year and want to be recognised for their talent.\\u201cSo we do take reference for the wage distribution of our workforce. And in general, well-paying jobs are those that pay above the medium wage of the resident workforce,\\u201d he says.ST PHOTO: SHINTARO TAY\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"yuenc\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Challenges and opportunities of AI\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T11:20:13+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T14:25:44+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The number of businesses approaching the National Trades Union Congress for support has climbed amid concerns over disruptions from artificial intelligence (AI), with NTUC calling for enhanced job support for retrenched workers, among others.The Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry said many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) struggle with the high cost of AI solutions, capability gaps and uncertainty about where to begin.The chamber has called for an AI micro-grant scheme and the establishment of a \\u201ctrusted digital business hub\\u201d to help SMEs adopt AI more effectively and strengthen their competitiveness.But professional services firm KPMG and the Singapore Institute of Directors said Singapore can seize the opportunity to become a regional AI leader by championing a \\u201cTrusted AI\\u201d mark, similar to the Green Mark sustainability certification.Such a move would allow companies to deploy AI solutions across ASEAN without duplicative compliance, thereby accelerating cross-border innovation and trade.READ MORE: AI trust mark, \\u2018master trainers\\u2019 to help business leaders top KPMG and SID\\u2019s Budget 2026 wish list\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"arshiiq\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"No tariff impact on Singapore\\u2019s import prices: Gan Siow Huang\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T14:07:33+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T14:20:49+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Minister of State for Trade and Industry Gan Siow Huang says that US tariffs and the corresponding decline in exports to the US have not had any impact on Singapore\\u2019s import prices, because the tariffs are paid for by the US importers.But there could be an indirect impact if higher prices in the US lead to an increase in the prices of its exports, including those to Singapore in the future, she adds.Singapore is currently subject to a baseline reciprocal tariff rate of 10 per cent imposed by the US, as well as sectoral tariffs that are applicable to the Republic, such as on steel and aluminium.Meanwhile, the decline in import prices has helped lower inflation here, says Ms Gan, adding that Singapore will continue to closely monitor its import prices and inflation rates and the corresponding impact on Singaporeans, especially those from lower household income groups.She is replying to Mr Yip Hon Weng (Yio Chu Kang) with regard to the 10 per cent US tariff imposed on Singapore and the nearly 30 per cent year-on-year decline in exports to the US.PHOTO: ST FILE\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"yuenc\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"S\\u2019pore will adjust health measures based on evolving risk of Nipah virus outbreak\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T13:47:37+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T14:19:28+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) is closely monitoring the Nipah virus situation in India and globally, and will adjust health measures here as needed, says Senior Minister of State for Health Koh Poh Koon.Ms Pereira had asked what Singapore is doing in the light of the outbreak in West Bengal, India. The virus, which has no approved vaccine or known cure, was detected in two people there earlier in January.Dr Koh says Singapore has issued clinical guidance to all medical practitioners and conducted an educational webinar for primary care doctors.The electronic Health Declaration Card for incoming travellers has also been adjusted, such that if a traveller declares any symptoms, there will be a prompt to ask if they have been to high-risk areas. The information collected will also be sent directly to the CDA, says Dr Koh.In addition, the Ministry of Manpower has been roped in to disseminate information on precautionary health measures to migrant workers and their employers, as well as dormitory operators and employment agencies.In a separate question, Mr Giam asked about the progress of research here into Nipah virus diagnostic kits and vaccines, and whether Singapore currently possesses or has plans to develop Biosafety Level 4 laboratory capacity for such vaccine testing.Dr Koh says that to date, Duke-NUS, NUS and A*STAR are conducting six research projects on the Nipah virus covering diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines under the Programme for Research in Epidemic Preparedness and Response.The projects are all in progress and do not involve the use of any live Nipah virus, which requires a Biosafety Level 4 laboratory, says Dr Koh. Such laboratories are specifically designed to study high-consequence pathogens and enforce the highest levels of precaution.Dr Koh says that Singapore currently does not have a Biosafety Level 4 laboratory for the purposes of research and adds that the Ministry of Defence is upgrading the capabilities of DSO National Laboratories to Biosafety Level 4.Dr Koh says that Singapore is watching the outbreak carefully, though it is still confined to a particular locality. But \\u201cit\\u2019s not the same posture\\u201d that should be adopted as for Covid-19, which has become \\u201ca generalised pandemic\\u201d, he adds.As a result, there is probably no urgency to look at procuring vaccine targets ahead of time in anticipation of a widespread global pandemic, he says.READ MORE: Are we about to live through a Nipah pandemic?\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"yuenc\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Parliament opens\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T13:32:17+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T13:58:13+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The MPs have taken their seats and question time has started. Senior Minister of State for Manpower and Health Koh Poh Koon rises to answer the first two questions posed by Ms Joan Pereira (Tanjong Pagar GRC) and Mr Gerald Giam (Aljunied GRC) on Singapore\\u2019s response to the Nipah virus outbreak abroad.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"chuishan\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Opportunities for growth\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T12:20:06+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T13:55:17+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Singapore Business Federation and PwC Singapore have jointly put up 18 recommendations to strengthen Singapore\\u2019s economy.One idea is to expand the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone to include Indonesia\\u2019s Riau Islands \\u2013 Batam, Bintan and Karimun \\u2013 to make it more attractive to global investors.Also mooted was the creation of a digital intellectual property (IP) collateral registry, with the Government adding another boost by widening its risk-sharing schemes to cover IP-backed loans at higher ratios of 70 per cent to 80 per cent.READ MORE: Budget 2026: SBF, PwC list out 18 recommendations to strengthen Singapore economy\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"arshiiq\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Wanted: More support to train workers and leaders\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T12:40:03+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T13:49:36+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Several organisations have called for stronger support for workforce training in response to disruptions brought on by artificial intelligence (AI), the retention of older workers and the upskilling of professionals to prepare them as the next generation of business leaders.The Singapore National Employers Federation is hoping for more structured training and certification pathways for AI-related skills to be developed. Meanwhile, KPMG and the Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) support establishing job transformation road maps with co-funded training and certification initiatives to further enhance worker upskilling.KPMG and SID also cited a need for professionals and board leaders with expertise in areas such as supply chain management, AI governance and sustainability strategy.This could be achieved through structured upskilling and leadership development programmes led by professional international \\u201cmaster trainers\\u201d and mentors, who could join local companies, public agencies and training institutions under a new work pass category.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"arshiiq\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Singapore to roll out 7 strategies to secure growth, good jobs amid tariff and AI threats\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T10:40:03+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T12:18:42+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"In January, five committees formed to conduct Singapore\\u2019s Economic Strategy Review unveiled seven proposals \\u2013 mid- to long-term measures that will help the Government plan an economic strategy that allows Singapore to embrace change while remaining competitive and relevant globally.At the same time, the proposals are aimed at ensuring economic progress is inclusive and continues to create good jobs, said Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, who is also Minister for Trade and Industry.The recommendations are to:1. Extend Singapore\\u2019s global leadership in key growth areas.2. Pursue emerging opportunities to create new economic growth engines.3. Establish Singapore as an artificial intelligence (AI) leader with an AI-empowered economy.4. Strengthen connectivity and linkages to global markets and support companies to internationalise.5. Broaden the range of good jobs.6. Make lifelong learning a practical reality.7. Enable businesses to proactively navigate transitions.The Government will respond to some of these recommendations during Budget 2026 and when it is debated.READ MORE HEREST PHOTO: JASON QUAH\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Liaw Wy Cin\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Opinion: Budget 2026 is Government\\u2019s chance to invest in social capital, says NUS\\u2019 Nicholas Thomas \",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T12:00:20+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T12:00:20+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Factors involved in organising ground-up activities \\u2013 such as booking public spaces for community events \\u2013 should be simplified for residents, NUS\\u2019 Dr Nicholas Thomas said in a commentary ahead of Budget 2026.The Institute of Policy Studies research fellow said removing small hurdles makes it easier for any resident with an idea to act on it and for others to join in. Over time, this can help rebuild connections across social and economic lines, he added.Mixing across such lines matters because social capital \\u2013 the trust and networks that make people look out for one another \\u2013 does not form by accident, he argued.Dr Thomas said Budget 2026 offers the Government a chance to invest in this social glue in the following ways: Simplify funding for small, ground-up ideas;make the booking of community spaces less confusing;do more to recognise those who volunteer their time.READ MORE: Budget 2026 should make it easier to book void deck spaces and rebuild social capitalST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"arshiiq\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Alleviating the cost pressures of businesses\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T11:40:50+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T11:40:50+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Several organisations have called for measures to help businesses and employers manage rising costs amid an increasingly complex and uncertain landscape.Suggestions include support for rental and utility expenses, a moratorium on raising government fees and policies to control excessive rent increases. The Restaurant Association of Singapore said rental fees remain a major fixed cost for the industry.Other proposals include expanding or extending initiatives such as the Progressive Wage Credit Scheme and SkillsFuture, as well as widening the list of approved source countries for work permit holders.READ MORE: SMEs need help with costs and competitiveness as outlook weakens, says SCCCI PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"arshiiq\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"More support for workers to be announced at Budget 2026: PM Wong\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T10:20:05+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T11:01:06+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Many Singaporeans remain concerned about job security despite a strong economic performance in 2025 and a robust labour market, PM Wong said on Feb 11.In a video message, he acknowledged anxieties over rapid technological change and an uncertain external environment.Speaking to two workers in the video, PM Wong said work will continue to evolve, resulting in more frequent career transitions for Singaporeans.To help people navigate these shifts, the Government will step up efforts to manage job transitions, equip workers with the skills needed to stay competitive and ensure they have access to good jobs with rising incomes, he said.He will outline more details in his Budget statement on Feb 12, he added.READ MORE: ST PHOTO: SHINTARO TAY\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Liaw Wy Cin\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Budget 2025 recap: A Budget for all Singaporeans\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-02-12T10:10:09+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-12T10:32:03+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PM Wong, who is also the Finance Minister, described Budget 2025 as a Budget for all Singaporeans. The broad suite of measures announced in 2025 totalled a record $143.1 billion, up from the $134.2 billion spent in the 2024 financial year.It focused on broad-based support to help households cope with the cost of living, along with measures to support seniors and the vulnerable, grow Singapore\\u2019s economy, help workers upskill and meet its green targets.He also announced an SG60 package, in line with the country\\u2019s 60th year of independence, which included SG60 vouchers and a baby gift for those born in 2025, among other measures.READ MORE: Budget 2025: Highlights for families, from $800 in CDC vouchers to $500 in education top-upsST PHOTO: JASEL POH\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ling Chang Hong\"}}]}","keywords":"Budget Singapore, Budget 2026, Singapore, Singapore Budget, Budget Live, sg budget, Lawrence Wong, Ministry of Finance, handout, what to expect, cdc vouchers, live stream, live coverage, news, updates","robots":"index, follow, max-image-preview:large, max-snippet:-1, max-video-preview:-1","image":"https://static1.straitstimes.com.sg/s3fs-public/articles/2026/02/10/aibudget100226.jpg"},"gaData":{"level2":"23","chapter1":"","chapter2":"","title":"Live:_PM_Lawrence_Wong_to_deliver_Singapore_Budget_2026","title_ga":"Live: PM Lawrence Wong to deliver Singapore Budget 2026","pagination":"1","contenttype":"live blog"}},"dependentPaths":[]}}},"actionData":null,"errors":null}