Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong Emphasizes Purpose Over Material Success in Forward Singapore Report, Announces Plans for Social and Economic Reform

Forward Singapore report unveils roadmap for future changes, with a shift in focus from materialism towards purpose, inclusivity, and resilience, resulting from a 16-month-long review involving over 200,000 citizens.

Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has announced the 'Forward Singapore' initiative focusing on encouraging a shift from materialism towards leading purposeful lives. This is being described as a refreshing change to the typical 'Singapore Dream', which has traditionally been focused on material success.
The 'Forward Singapore' report is the outcome of a 16-month-long feedback cycle that engaged the opinions of over 200,000 Singaporean citizens and stakeholders. The report identifies three main elements for a new 'Singapore Dream': inclusivity, vibrancy, and fairness.
The report also details a new support scheme to aid lower- and middle-income citizens who have involuntarily lost their jobs. This move is a part of the government’s attempts to foster a resilient and united society.
Education reforms are also targeted, with a greater emphasis on lifelong learning, the development of diverse pathways like full subject banding in secondary schools, and increased attention on children from lower-income families.
The changes proposed in the report span multiple areas, including the enhancement of support for families, senior citizens, and individuals with disabilities, and the development of robust social support systems. The 'Forward Singapore' Festival will continue till January 2024 to facilitate broader public involvement in these changes and discussions.

CNA