SINGAPORE — In a nod to the shifts in challenges facing Singapore, the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) has — for only the second time in its history — updated its vision for the nation, an update that will focus on three thrusts: Ensuring opportunities for all Singaporeans, upholding a fair, just society and nurturing a democracy of deeds.

Explaining why the PAP’s objectives are being amended since the first revision 32 years ago — to remove independence from the colonialists as an objective as it had long been achieved — chairman Khaw Boon Wan said: “Our circumstances have changed and our policies have evolved to adapt to them. But as our society becomes more diverse, our economy more mature and our political landscape more contested, it is timely to fundamentally review our overall approach.”

Noting that new challenges have been thrown up by enormous changes in Singapore since then, Prime Minister and PAP secretary-general Lee Hsien Loong outlined the party’s updated raison d’etre at its 60th party conference yesterday. First, the PAP will do its best to support those with less and take everyone to a good starting point in life, so there are opportunities for all Singaporeans and not only for a privileged few, he said.

“It means an open and compassionate meritocracy. Success, rewards will depend on ability and contributions, but everyone must have a chance to prove themselves.” The opportunities will come only if Singapore grows and upgrades its economy so that there will be good and fulfilling jobs for Singaporeans, while the importance of education must be emphasised, Mr Lee said.

Referring to the changes in education, such as the ongoing drive to create multiple paths to success, Mr Lee said: “This is a place where our children can dream big, achieve their aspirations and live well in Singapore.”

Second, the PAP will uphold a fair and just society, he said, even while that ideal faces headwinds, such as global competition and an ageing population. He cited measures introduced to help the lower-income and recent ones to ease the burden of healthcare, such as the Pioneer Generation Package.

“We believe that, in Singapore, nobody should face life’s uncertainties alone”, said Mr Lee, who added that achieving the ideal of a fair society would be a work in progress. The third thrust in the PAP’s vision is on nurturing a democracy of deeds, he said.

While the Government is increasing social support, hard work and self-reliance remain core values, said Mr Lee.“People cannot leave everything to the Government,” he added. “Individuals must take the initiative, organise themselves ... get things done,” said Mr Lee, pledging to engage Singaporeans in deciding the nation’s future.

Mr Lee also stressed that the PAP has to be clear about what it stands for to deliver on the promise of its new vision. It must be a party that looks after the interests of a wide range of Singaporeans and a responsible one that does not make empty promises and is accountable, he said. “It is our responsibility to set the standard that other political parties in Singapore should be measured by and aim for.”

The PAP must also have the courage to defend what it thinks is the right thing to do for Singaporeans, he said.

Those who attended Mr Lee’s rally, such as activist Chandroo Methani, 54, welcomed the updated vision. Member of Parliament Christopher de Souza said: “It’s about building a Singapore where everyone is counted ... It was carefully crafted and timely, and shows the PAP’s desire to remain relevant to Singapore and Singaporeans.”