Prime Minister Wong's first National Day Rally speech set for 18 August
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will deliver his inaugural National Day Rally speech on 18 August at ITE Headquarters in Ang Mo Kio. He is expected to address the nation and discuss key policy issues, including cost of living and the Forward Singapore initiative during this annual political event.
SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will deliver his inaugural National Day Rally speech on Sunday (18 August), at the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) Headquarters in Ang Mo Kio.
Mr Wong's speech will start with Malay at 6:45 PM, followed by Mandarin, with his English address commencing at 8:00 PM, according to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on Monday.
The National Day Rally will be broadcast across local TV channels and radio stations. CNA will provide English subtitles for the speeches. Specifically, Mr. Wong's speech will be available in English on Channel 5 and CNA938; in Mandarin on Channel 8, Channel U, and Capital 95.8FM; in Malay on Suria and Warna 94.2FM; and in Tamil on Vasantham and Oli 96.8FM.
The speech will also be streamed live on CNA, CNA's YouTube channel, meWATCH.sg, 8world.com, as well as on PMO's YouTube channel, and on Mr. Wong's Facebook and YouTube pages.
The National Day Rally is regarded as the most significant political speech of the year, where the Prime Minister addresses the nation and discusses key policy issues.
In his maiden National Day Message last week, Mr Wong emphasized maintaining stable living costs in Singapore and enhancing family support through the Forward Singapore initiative.
"We cannot control global prices, “ he said.
"But we can and we have shielded Singaporeans from the worst effects of global inflation by keeping the Singapore Dollar strong."
As Finance Minister, he acknowledged the major concern of inflation affecting daily expenses for Singaporeans and announced plans for increased government investment to strengthen the country's social support system.
PM Wong noted that some individuals may struggle to adapt to a new, volatile, and rapidly changing environment, while the fast-aging population will increasingly demand more healthcare services and social support.
He observed, “More of us will feel sandwiched, having to look after children as well as elderly parents.”
He said in the last two Budgets, measures were introduced to support lower-wage workers, assist vulnerable families, and enhance retirement adequacy.
He added, “We have also embarked on nationwide initiatives like Healthier SG and Age Well SG to take better care of our seniors.”
The government plans to take further action, PM Wong stated.
