Good governance is required to lead Singapore through a changing and difficult globe, says PM Lee

[SINGAPORE] Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong emphasized the importance of a competent government team in ensuring Singapore’s success amidst global challenges. Speaking at an election rally on April 27, he outlined the vital role a strong leadership team plays in navigating an increasingly volatile world, and the serious consequences of lacking such leadership.

"The geopolitical landscape today is far more volatile than it has been in previous decades," SM Lee remarked, referencing rising tensions between major powers and disruptions in global supply chains. "Singapore’s survival hinges on having leaders who comprehend these complexities and can steer the country through them without jeopardizing our sovereignty or prosperity."

He continued, "The world has changed... It will be harder to make a living, harder to export, harder for our companies to offer stable jobs, and harder for people to plan for the future."

“This issue isn’t temporary. It won’t disappear because the world itself has transformed, and we need to be mentally prepared for that shift,” he added.

SM Lee also cautioned voters against casting ballots simply to give opposition parties "a few more votes," in hopes of securing additional opposition MPs. He stressed that Singapore’s distinctive political model—where the ruling party governs decisively while still allowing for opposition voices—has brought about stability. "Other countries experience gridlock when coalitions break down or populist promises fail. We have avoided that by ensuring leadership renewal while maintaining robust core institutions," he explained.

He further advised, “If you think the PAP is doing well—vote for it. If you think we are not, vote against us. Don’t play games. It’s a risky approach.”

Reflecting on the successful handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, SM Lee noted that lives were saved due to the presence of a competent team in government. He also highlighted Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong’s efforts in managing Singapore’s response to the U.S. tariff situation. DPM Gan, who is also anchoring the PAP team in Punggol GRC, has been at the forefront of negotiations with the U.S. to secure exemptions for key sectors such as electronics and pharmaceuticals.

"These tariffs could reduce our export margins, but DPM Gan’s team is working hard to protect industries that provide jobs for Singaporeans," SM Lee said. "This is about more than just trade—it’s about safeguarding livelihoods."

He pointed out that DPM Gan oversees the economy, foreign trade, and the Monetary Authority of Singapore, and has continued his critical work even amidst the election campaign. “Losing DPM Gan would be costly. You can't replace him cheaply, and it would be a very expensive mistake to try,” SM Lee warned.

“Good governance relies on good people, competent ministers, and MPs—a strong team. And to build such a team, you must first elect them,” he stressed. “We have ministers and MPs across Singapore, including in highly contested areas.”

He also highlighted the PAP’s track record of effective policymaking, such as the Jobs Support Scheme during the pandemic and the Forward Singapore roadmap. “These weren’t just slogans; they were lifelines for businesses and workers. The opposition hasn’t demonstrated the same ability to deliver,” he noted.

SM Lee added, “Losing one minister? It’s manageable. Losing two? It’s tougher. But lose three ministers, and it becomes a serious problem.” He even acknowledged that opposition MPs understand the PAP’s achievements. “After more than 60 years in power, they don’t say, ‘Vote for me to change things,’” he said. “Instead, they say, ‘I only contested in less than a third of the seats, so you’re sure to have a strong PAP government after the election.’”

In his conclusion, SM Lee affirmed, “We’ve lived up to our responsibilities, upheld the trust, and have clear consciences because we’ve done right by Singaporeans.” The rally, held at Fern Green Primary School, was attended by PAP teams from Ang Mo Kio GRC and several other constituencies, including Jalan Kayu, Kebun Baru, and Yio Chu Kang SMCs.

In addition to SM Lee, PAP candidates such as Jasmin Lau, Victor Lye, Darryl David, and Nadia Ahmad Samdin spoke at the event. Labour chief Ng Chee Meng, candidate for Jalan Kayu SMC, and other incumbents, including Henry Kwek and Yip Hon Weng, also addressed the crowd.

Mr. David responded to criticism that PAP backbenchers merely follow the party line, insisting that they are not "yes men and women." He emphasized that PAP MPs engage in rigorous scrutiny and debate, and are willing to challenge government policies when necessary. "We speak up when there is a good reason," he said.

Mr. Yip also pointed out his active participation in Parliament, delivering over 130 speeches and raising critical issues more than any opposition MP. Concluding his address, SM Lee urged voters to focus on the crucial issues facing Singapore in a challenging global landscape. He reiterated the importance of selecting a capable government to navigate future uncertainties, one that is trustworthy and committed to Singapore’s long-term prosperity.

“We speak the truth, and that is what sets Singapore apart,” he concluded.