Last updated on August 10, 2025
SINGAPORE: Amid growing global uncertainty, Singapore must remain ahead of the competition by strengthening its unity, determination, and performance, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in his National Day message on Friday (Aug 8).
“We must move faster, adapt quicker, and innovate smarter. That means embracing technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics — and putting them to practical use across our economy,” he said.
He stressed that individuals, workers, and businesses must be empowered to fully leverage these tools to sharpen the nation’s competitive edge.
“The pace of change will be swift, and not always comfortable. There will be disruptions, and the transition will not be easy for everyone,” he cautioned.
Uncertain outlook, shifting global order
Speaking from The Padang, PM Wong pointed to ongoing global conflicts, intensifying geopolitical tensions, rising trade barriers, and increasing protectionism.
“To put it plainly: The global order that has enabled Singapore to prosper for decades is now unravelling before our eyes,” he said.
This makes it critical for Singapore to prepare early for future challenges, as other countries — with larger populations and greater resources — are striving hard to succeed.
“The major powers are now more ready to use every means — economic, technological, and geopolitical — to tilt the playing field in their favour. That will make it harder for small states like Singapore to hold our own.”
While Singapore’s economy has so far proven “resilient”, PM Wong warned that the global economic environment is likely to remain troubled and the outlook “highly uncertain”.
The Singapore Economic Resilience Taskforce, he said, has already implemented targeted measures for businesses and workers, and will continue to manage risks, seek out new opportunities, and prepare for the future.
Government’s commitment to Singaporeans
Acknowledging that rapid change can be unsettling, PM Wong assured citizens that the Government will “walk this journey” with them.
“We will expand opportunities for lifelong learning and skills development, strengthen social safety nets, and help every Singaporean who experiences setbacks to recover and keep going,” he said.
He cited the Forward Singapore initiative and programmes like the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme as part of broader efforts to uplift lower-income workers and families.
This, he added, is a collective effort involving community groups, businesses, unions, and passionate individuals.
“We may be of different races, speak different languages, and hold different beliefs — but we are bound by something deeper: a shared commitment to one another, and to Singapore.
“This is the trust and unity that sustained us over the past 60 years. It gave us the strength to build a nation from scratch, and it will be even more vital as we face a faster-changing and more uncertain world.”
Marking SG60
To commemorate Singapore’s 60th year of independence, a special exhibition will be held at Orchard Library, featuring aspirations and hopes for the country’s future. The exhibition has begun receiving student visitors and will open to the public later in August.
“In 60 years, we have gone from third world to first — not by luck, but through determination, resilience, and unity,” PM Wong said.
“As we embark on a new chapter, we must draw strength from our past and move forward with confidence. Together, we can secure a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and generations to come.
