Focus on family-friendly policies and purposeful immigration to support a sustainable future
In Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s National Day Rally speech on August 18, Singapore’s population policy emerged as a central theme, though the words “population” and “immigration” were notably absent. Instead, the rally emphasized family-centered policies, with a focus on health, education, and well-being for the country’s children, signifying a shift towards nurturing the next generation as the cornerstone of the refreshed Singaporean dream.
While Singapore’s low fertility rate is a reality, gender norms must be reshaped to support families, and a strong immigration policy should complement the country’s population strategy. The future relies on optimism and confidence in ensuring Singapore’s growth, political stability, and socio-cultural resilience, creating a thriving population for the years ahead.