PM Lee’s farewell address at May Day Rally calls for continued support for incoming leadership

On 1 May 2024, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong delivered his last political speech as Prime Minister at the annual May Day Rally in Singapore, before handing over leadership to Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

Held on a day historically associated with labour rights and solidarity, the speech addressed broader national challenges and the critical importance of political stability and trust in governance.

In his extensive address, PM Lee emphasized the robust start to Singapore’s next chapter but cautioned against complacency in the face of formidable challenges such as great power rivalry, deglobalization, rapid technological changes, climate change, and potential warfare.

This backdrop, he described, sets the stage for a “very challenging” period ahead.

Highlighting the essence of trust and continuity in governance, PM Lee reflected on the unwavering mandate given to the People’s Action Party (PAP) over successive elections, underscoring its role in delivering substantial results for Singaporeans.

He credited former Prime Ministers Lee Kuan Yew and Goh Chok Tong with establishing a resilient system, a legacy he expects his successors to uphold, stressing that any deviation toward mediocrity could spell serious trouble for the nation.

Reflecting on his 20-year tenure as Prime Minister, PM Lee remarked on the significant progress made under his leadership, noting that Singapore has become ‘much better off’.

Central to his discourse was the interplay between long-term planning and trust, illustrated by ambitious infrastructure projects like the reclamation of Marina Bay, where the Integrated Resort with a casino is situated, the Tuas mega port, and Changi Airport Terminal 5.

PM Lee assured that his successors would continue to envision transformative projects to propel Singapore forward.

On the social front, PM Lee reiterated the importance of maintaining racial and religious harmony amidst Singapore’s multicultural context. He acknowledged the persistent challenges and external pressures that could influence the nation’s social fabric and highlighted ongoing efforts to manage potential societal divisions sensitively.

Addressing the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), PM Lee underscored the significance of tripartism in navigating past and future economic challenges. He reflected on the symbiotic relationship between the unions and the PAP, which has historically benefited Singaporean workers and their families.

Looking back over his 20 years as Prime Minister, PM Lee enumerated the advancements under his leadership, including economic transformation, public housing improvements, enhancements in public transport, and investments in healthcare and education.

He expressed pride in the societal and economic strides made during his tenure, positioning Singapore as a stable, respected player on the global stage.

As he prepares to pass the baton to DPM Lawrence Wong, PM Lee expressed confidence in the next generation of leadership to address upcoming challenges and continue the work of advancing Singapore.

Emphasizing unity, long-term thinking, and political stability as key to the nation’s future, he called on all Singaporeans to support the incoming leadership to ensure the country’s continued success.

“I ask all Singaporeans to rally behind them, and work together to make Singapore succeed, for your sake. ”

“That is our path forward: For each generation to steward Singapore to the best of its ability, so that the next generation can take over a better Singapore, and in turn lead our nation onwards and upwards.”

Concluding his speech, PM Lee reflected on his four decades in public service, expressing a deep sense of fulfillment and readiness to see a new chapter unfold under a new leader, confident that he has left Singapore in capable hands.