Speaking at the Opening Dinner for the National Delegates Conference 2015, PM Lee talked about how NTUC has played a huge part in getting Singapore to where it is today because unions are the very cornerstone of our unique system of tripartism which has been built and nurtured painstakingly over the years.
Whilst we have made Singapore a developed economy, we still have to contend with how we continue to make a living for ourselves in view of the challenges posed by globalisation. It would not be possible to fight it because if we do then our economy will stagnate, our workers will become uncompetitive and Singapore will be left behind. On the government’s part, they have been upgrading the economy to keep businesses and workers competitive. Key to this is to improve productivity so that we can sustain higher wages for all.
There are many issues which need to be addressed and he assured the audience that the government will always pursue national policies which promote growth and further workers' interests. The government, having had very strong roots in the trade union movement, continues to maintain a close symbiotic relationship with the Labour Movement till this day. It is important that unions and union leaders continue to be involved in key national decisions. They sit in forums which shape policies such as the NWC (National Wages Council), the SkillsFuture Council, the National Productivity Council, serve on Statutory Boards, publicly listed companies etc. Labour MPs including the Secretary-General who is also a Cabinet Minister speak up for workers in Parliament. Such would not be possible if not for the trust that has been built and strengthened over the years.
As we move into the next phase of our development, it is critical that we keep this tripartite formula strong. To do so, the tripartite partners will have to upgrade themselves and raise their game. It is critical to continue to strengthen and maintain the trust that we have built into the next generation, and therefore each of the tripartite partners must do its own upgrade. In this regard, the following must happen.
The government must continue to develop new economic policies. Employers must ensure that companies stay viable and find new business opportunities. Unions must stay relevant to existing and new union members in this new economy. Tripartite partners will have to adapt to an older workforce and the increasing number of PMETs in the workforce.
In addition to this, there is a need for good leaders in the Labour Movement. Leaders who are not just respected and trusted by members, but who are firm in defending workers’ interests whilst appreciating the broader national interest. In addition, they need to be leaders who can also rally the ground.
On this front, PM was heartened that NTUC has institutionalised leadership renewal. With this framework, PM Lee acknowledged that the NTUC has built up a strong core of 6,000 leaders over the years.
With this special model of tripartism in place, this has allowed people to excel, businesses to grow, and the nation to thrive. This has been a major ingredient in Singapore’s success. Ultimately, much of this came down to having good leaders who forged friendships and trust over a long period, who share the same passion to improve the lives of Singaporeans. PM Lee then called on all tripartite partners to continue to overcome the challenges and build a better Singapore together.
