SINGAPORE — Families are the “basic building blocks” of society, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in his Chinese New Year message.

“Families are the basic building blocks of our society. They shape our identity and sense of self, transmit values and anchor us in a rapidly changing world,” he said. “Our families comfort us when we are down, and encourage us to reach for the stars. They inspire us to be better people, not just for ourselves but for others.”

Referring to the Population White Paper debate, Mr Lee pointed out that the “best way to strengthen our Singapore core is to encourage more Singaporeans to marry, and have more children”.

He said: “This remains our top priority. We gladly welcomed more babies during the Dragon Year, and hope that this continues into the Year of the Snake. But we must go beyond the Chinese zodiac, and reaffirm the fundamental reasons for Singaporeans to have more children and grow their families.”

The Government will continue promoting “strong and healthy families”, such as through the Marriage and Parenthood Package, added Mr Lee.

“But more important than financial incentives is fostering a pro-family social environment, and reaffirming Singaporeans’ mindsets towards having children. That is why we also introduced paternity leave and shared parental leave, and strengthened maternity protection for pregnant employees,” he said.

Describing the enhanced Marriage and Parenthood Package announced recently as “a big step forward” in the Government’s bid to encourage Singaporeans to grow their families, he said he hoped Singaporeans will take advantage of the incentives.

Mr Lee cited the example of Military Expert 5 Daryl Cheong, who is serving in Afghanistan now as part of the Singapore Armed Forces’ Forward Support Team, as one of those who may miss the chance of spending time with their families here, even during festive seasons.

Although he uses Skype and Whatsapp to keep in touch with his family here, “nothing cheers him more” than receiving Chinese New Year goodies from his family. “As he says, chicken ‘bak kwa’, almond biscuits and other goodies have brought me comfort, warmth and joy,” said Mr Lee.

Mr Lee also stressed the importance of keeping traditions, such as thanking elders during Chinese New Year for their sacrifices, reunion dinners and home visits, because these “are part of our heritage and remind us of the truly important things in life”.

He added: “This is especially important as social norms change, and other interests apparently take precedence over these traditions. Even in China, where millions travel from the cities to their rural hometowns to see their families during the Chinese New Year, more second-generation migrants are choosing to stay in cities to enjoy the holiday instead.

“Family structures are also evolving. There are many more nuclear families, and extended family ties have grown weaker. Some families prefer to go overseas over the long weekend, instead of staying in Singapore for the traditional Chinese New Year festivities.”

He also urged Singaporeans to spare a thought for those going through difficult times, such as the less fortunate or families who have recently lost loved ones. “If you can, reach out to them and invite them to your celebrations,” he said. “They are all part of our larger Singapore family. They deserve our support; we too may one day look to others for comfort.”