SINGAPORE — Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong on Sunday (Dec 31) expressed his hope for the identity of Singapore’s next Prime Minister to be decided in the next six to nine months.

Writing on his Facebook page, Mr Goh said an “urgent challenge” which he would like to see settled is the country’s fourth-generation leadership.

“Every succession is different, but one thing remains the same: Each cohort will have to pick one amongst themselves to lead, and support him,” said Mr Goh, who was Singapore’s second Prime Minister before he was succeeded by Mr Lee Hsien Loong in 2004.

“I hope the current cohort will do so in six to nine months’ time.”

When that happens, Mr Lee can “formally designate their choice as his potential successor before 2018 ends”, Mr Goh said.

He added that whoever is chosen, the team will have to “work together, bring in others, and gel to form a cohesive fourth generation Cabinet”.

Mr Goh said: “They must write a new inspiring chapter for Singapore, be courageous to make difficult decisions, stand tall with integrity, and earn the respect and trust of Singaporeans and the world at large. This is my wish for the new year - a Singapore in good hands, a Singapore that all of us build together.”

A major Cabinet reshuffle is on the cards early this year, and analysts had previously told TODAY that going by precedents, Singapore’s next Prime Minister could be appointed as a Deputy Prime Minister in this round of changes. This would give the successor exposure and prepare him for the top job, as well as signal to the public that he is next in line, they added.

On a personal note, Mr Goh said he will help organisations serving vulnerable Singaporeans, especially people with special needs. He is also focused on a few projects in his Marine Parade constituency.