Deputy Prime Minster Lawrence Wong reiterated the importance of the People’s Action Party’s (PAP) symbiotic relationship with NTUC in achieving the objectives of the Forward Singapore exercise – an initiative he first introduced at NTUC Centre on 28 June 2022.
He was addressing over 3,000 party members on 6 November 2022 at the PAP Conference and Awards held at Sentosa Resorts World.
Mr Wong said that while it was in PAP’s DNA to serve the nation and its people, and to build a fair and just society – the party does this in partnership with others.
He added: “The most important partnership is our symbiotic relationship with the NTUC. The PAP will always stand in solidarity with the Labour Movement.”
Mr Wong shared his hopes of the Forward Singapore exercise, which is to help Singaporeans from various background realise their full potential and share in Singapore’s success; strengthen assurances and protection for all Singaporeans in an uncertain world; instil a stronger sense of solidarity and responsibility in society.
“We will continue to work closely with you [the Labour Movement] to uplift our workers and advance their well-being,” he said.
NTUC Assistant Secretary-General Patrick Tay was heartened to hear Mr Wong reiterating the party’s and congress’ symbiotic relationship.
“This is particularly important as we strive to ensure we look after the interests and welfare of fellow Singaporeans and workers so that there are opportunities for all and no one is left behind because every worker matters!” he said.
Union of Power and Gas Employees General Secretary Abdul Samad Abdul Wahab echoed similar sentiments, saying that the reaffirmation sets the direction for Forward Singapore, and it shows the party’s commitment to Singapore and its workers.
“He [Mr Wong] has committed to everyone to uplift our interest, and shown the Labour Movement that he is willing to work together to serve all Singaporeans.”
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong confirmed that the PAP delivered on its promises laid out in its 2020 manifesto, but stated that more needs to be done to give the party a strong mandate.
He said that while the party has ensured the growth of Singapore’s economy, the creation of jobs, the uplifting of lower-wage workers and extension of support for the more vulnerable – the party needs to “convert people’s approval” of the party’s performance and support into “strong votes for the PAP.”
He said: “People know that PAP leaders are conviction politicians. We adopt policies and programmes because we are convinced they will benefit Singapore and Singaporeans in the long term.
“But more important than the details of the policies, we must convince Singaporeans why the policies matter to them, and how they match people’s needs and aspirations.”
Mr Lee gave the example of progressive wages, and how they were not just about raising the income of those earning a lower wage.
“They reflect our determination to uplift those who are doing less well, and build a more equal society where everyone is respected for what he or she does,” he said.
