Unity, solidarity key as Singapore faces challenges after ‘generational’ vote: President Tharman

SINGAPORE – Singapore’s best hope for overcoming challenges lies in unity and solidarity, said President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on May 23.

In a speech opening the swearing-in ceremony of the Republic’s new Cabinet, he urged Singaporeans to continue standing together regardless of race or religion, so that diversity continues to be Singapore’s strength and not a vulnerability.

The country faces global and domestic challenges, including an ageing population and a fragmenting world economy. These will require “careful forethought and bold action”, and are not just for the Government to tackle but for all Singaporeans, he said.

“We must remain a people whose well-being is tied up with each other’s, and who look out for those who are disadvantaged,” he added.

This spirit of solidarity has sustained Singapore for 60 years and is how the country has endured crisis after crisis, he said. “May this same spirit continue to guide us for many years to come.”

Mr Tharman presided over the ceremony held at the Istana that formally installed Singapore’s refreshed political leadership, following

the announcement of their appointments by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on May 21

.

PM Wong unveiled the reshuffle following a general election on May 3 that saw the PAP

return to power with 65.57 per cent of the popular vote

.

The election was a “moment of generational significance”, said Mr Tharman.

PM Wong and his team sought the mandate of Singaporeans to lead the nation for the first time, and the results were a “strong vote of trust and confidence”, he said.

Singaporeans chose not just their representatives in Parliament or town councillors for their neighbourhoods, but also the political leadership who will “write the next chapter of the Singapore story with them”, he added.

He described the campaign as spirited, noting that important issues such as the cost of living, housing and immigration were debated. Beyond this, Singaporeans also expressed their views on the political landscape they wished to see, he said.

He added: “They preferred the strongest team possible to govern Singapore, even as they chose to maintain alternative voices in Parliament.

“They also reflected on the kind of society they wished to build – one rooted in shared purpose and inclusivity.”

Singapore’s democratic process remained decorous and respectful through it all, Mr Tharman said.

He said: “Unlike many other places where political divisions have hardened and even turned people against each other, we have upheld a tone of mutual respect and serious engagement.

“Singaporeans showed that while we may hold different views, we are all fellow citizens who want the best for our nation.”

Singaporeans stood firm against foreign interference in domestic affairs, and the politicisation of race and religion, he added.

“Together, we were resolute in upholding our autonomy, our multiracialism and our unity.”

Mr Tharman commended the 11 political parties and 211 candidates who took part.

He said: “They committed their time, energy and ideas; and courageously opened themselves to public scrutiny.

“I commend all Singaporeans, too, who followed the campaigns and reflected on the issues carefully, and cast their votes thoughtfully and responsibly.”

Singaporeans and the contesting parties have accepted the results with good grace, reflecting the trust they have in the country’s institutions, its democratic process, and one another, he added.

The election has given Singapore a “strong and capable government” led by PM Wong, Mr Tharman added.

His team is a good balance of experienced leaders and new members – a combination of wisdom, fresh perspectives and deep resolve, he said.

They have been tested in crises, and shown their ability to govern with integrity, empathy and courage, he added.

He said: “Mr Wong himself has shown calm and confident leadership at the helm, through Covid-19, through the Forward Singapore conversations, and in now reinforcing the trust of our partners abroad in these uncertain times.”

With the election over, Singaporeans should work together with the government of the day for a brighter future, he added.

He said: “I encourage the Prime Minister and his team to continue listening, consulting widely and partnering with Singaporeans from all walks of life, our workers, businesses and those in civil society, as we address both the issues of today and the longer-term challenge of creating hope and opportunity for every generation.”

Mr Tharman, who was an MP for about 22 years before

resigning in 2023 to run for the presidency

, urged all MPs on either side of the aisle to remember the “solemn responsibility” they have been entrusted with. 

He said: “You have been elected to serve Singapore and Singaporeans.”

He asked them to debate in Parliament with conviction, but always with respect.

He said: “Argue your case vigorously, but never compromise on honesty and integrity. Critique policies robustly, but also offer alternatives for evaluation.

“Above all, remember that you all share the same ultimate goal – to build a fulfilling and cohesive future for Singaporeans.”