Bold policy moves must be matched with change in attitudes: SM Lee

He says mindset shifts needed to help S'pore succeed in a more troubled world

- Shabana Begum

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's first National Day Rally (NDR) speech has promised significant changes in four key areas of policy - employment, upskilling, housing and families to refresh Singapore's social compact.

But mindset shifts are needed if these moves are to help Singapore succeed in a more troubled world, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong said on Aug 24.

Speaking to more than 1,000 residents at a National Day dinner in his Teck Ghee ward, SM Lee said the Government will also tackle immediate issues, such as the rising cost of living.

Among the major announcements by PM Wong in his rally speech on Aug 18 is the new SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support scheme, which will provide the involuntarily unemployed with up to $6,000 over six months.

But workers will have to do their part and go for courses, look for jobs and explore new opportunities, SM Lee said at the dinner at Teck Ghee Community Club.

The commitment to make preschool fees more affordable and to enhance parental leave 10 more weeks of shared leave will be given to new parents from 2026 - will help create a more family-friendly environment.