PM Lee Stresses PAP’s Commitment to Integrity and the Fight Against Corruption
In a firm speech during the People’s Action Party’s (PAP) awards and convention on November 5, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong reassured Singaporeans that the nation would never allow its standards to slip or its system to become corrupt, following a major money laundering case involving S$2.8 billion.
PM Lee emphasized that all businesses, whether run by Singaporeans or foreigners, must understand that Singapore’s strict standards would not be compromised for financial gain. The recent case saw the arrest of 10 individuals and the seizure of luxury assets such as cars, houses, gold bars, watches, and handbags, drawing attention to potential vulnerabilities in the country’s financial sector. Despite these concerns, PM Lee made it clear that Singapore would never sacrifice its integrity, stressing that any attempts to bring “unclean money” into the country would be swiftly detected and dealt with.
The prime minister recounted a question posed by a journalist about whether Singapore was lowering its standards to attract wealthy clients, such as those associated with family offices. His unequivocal response was that Singapore would never allow its reputation to be tarnished. Allowing such practices, he warned, would lead to “doubtful characters” seeking to gain influence and make themselves appear respectable by ingratiating themselves with officials, donating to good causes, and attempting to gain permanent residency or citizenship. This, he cautioned, could ultimately lead to the corruption of the entire system.
PM Lee praised Singapore’s law enforcement for identifying the money laundering network two years ago, monitoring its activities closely, and taking decisive action to dismantle it at the right moment. He pointed out that, while the system is robust, human fallibility means that mistakes can occasionally happen. However, the rigorous safeguards in place ensure that when misconduct occurs, it is swiftly uncovered and investigated.
The prime minister also addressed internal issues within the PAP, referring to recent scandals involving its ministers and Members of Parliament. He reminded party members that Singapore is a small nation where improper actions are quickly exposed. Anyone found guilty of wrongdoing would face consequences, with no exceptions. He also reinforced that the PAP’s commitment to integrity, symbolized by the color white worn by party members, has been a cornerstone of Singapore’s success in maintaining one of the cleanest and least corrupt governments globally.
PM Lee concluded his remarks by urging PAP members to uphold the highest standards, both in their public duties and private lives, to preserve the trust placed in them by the people of Singapore. He reminded them that their responsibility is to serve the public and act with honesty and integrity, ensuring that Singapore remains a beacon of trust and transparency in the world.
