New leaders need to 'make bold moves, keep up spirit of pioneers'

SINGAPORE — While the country's leaders may think that Singapore has more to lose now, it would be wrong to give in to temptation and not go for bold changes, to be content to just "tweak things at the margins", President Halimah Yacob said as the second session of the 13th Parliament opened on Monday (May 7).

In the face of an uncertain external environment marred by terrorism, regional tensions and the trade friction between the United States and China, they will have to respond to changes as they confront the question of "what is next for Singapore", she said in her inaugural address to the House after she was sworn in as President last September.

The new cohort of leaders also need to "keep alive the spirit of our pioneers" and be constantly driven to do better, with each generation surpassing the previous, she added.

As the fourth-generation leadership team takes shape and takes on more responsibilities, like their predecessors, they will "uphold the foundational values" of multiracialism, meritocracy, incorruptibility, self-reliance, inclusivity and openness to the world, she asserted.

They are conscious that the country is "at quite an advanced stage of development" and will work with fellow Singaporeans to undertake the next phase of nation-building.

"Together, they will build upon what earlier generations accomplished. They will fashion new ideas and fresh approaches to confront a different future."

There are beginning signs of an "imprint of the new leadership in developing and implementing public policies", she said, but she did not go into details.

"Over time, these policies will be elaborated, refined, and will produce results. The work has begun, and will intensify from the second half of this term of Government."

Being a "vibrant global node" in the heart of a thriving Asia, and as a multicultural society with people from diverse backgrounds living harmoniously side by side, "Singapore has a lot going for it", President Halimah noted.

"We want to secure Singapore's place in this changing world. To do so, we are prepared to stand and fight for our nation, defend our vital interests, and work with others in win-win partnerships."

For example, the Singapore Armed Forces and Home Team are steadily building up their capabilities, to handle unconventional threats such as terrorism and cyber attacks, she said, though she also highlighted that the "people's resolve" to defend this country and "be masters of our destiny" also play a big role ultimately.

CHAMPION FREE TRADE, EXPLORE NEW PARTNERSHIPS

On the economic front, against the tide of rising protectionism in other countries, Singapore must champion free trade and explore new opportunities to collaborate with others.

With the two financial superpowers of the US and China, it will work for "good relations" with both.

The US has been a constructive and stabilising presence in the region for the past 70 years and remains an important strategic partner for Singapore, Madam Halimah said. The co-operation between the two countries will be enhanced in the years ahead.

Singapore will also continue to collaborate with China, with which it has a "deep and productive" relationship. This includes taking part in the Belt and Road Initiative, China's infrastructure development plan to build land and sea links with close to 70 countries in South-east Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa.

For South-east Asia, an "open and inclusive regional order" with "all the major powers engaged" will be the mission, Madam Halimah said.

It will work with regional partners to strengthen the unity and centrality of the Association of South-east Asian Nations (Asean), and do its part to prevent the build-up of tensions in the South China Sea.

"This year, we are the Asean chair, but we will sustain our efforts for the long term," she said.