DPM Teo highlights challenge to keep economy growing and nation thriving as population ages
By Goh Chin Lian, The Straits Times, 5 Aug 2012
This is especially so as the population is ageing, he told Pasir Ris residents attending a National Day observance ceremony at Elias Park Primary School.
Meeting this challenge is important so that Singapore can look after its elderly, and continue to be "a country and economy that's growing, and also very importantly, a place where young people, your children and your grandchildren, will want to make their home because there are exciting things going on, interesting jobs, cutting-edge opportunities and also many interesting things to do in their free time, in their leisure. And also, a very good place to bring up children", he said.
Mr Teo, who is in charge of population matters, added: "So there are many things we need to do for the future. And having a sustainable population is one of the most important things for the future because it will help to keep our country and our people vibrant, alive, lively and one of the most exciting cities in the world."
Population issues are a longstanding concern. Just last month, the Government released a comprehensive paper laying out Singapore's demographic challenges and dilemmas, and launched a website to collect feedback.
Population aside, Mr Teo also stressed a need for Singaporeans to remain united in the face of the challenges.
He said: "This is the way that we have been able to make progress in our four to five decades of history as an independent country."
He was one of a handful of ministers who attended National Day functions yesterday.
Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Minister for National Development Khaw Boon Wan, Minister for Law and Foreign Affairs K. Shanmugam and Ministers in the Prime Minister's Office Lim Swee Say and S. Iswaran all attended constituency National Day dinners yesterday.
Many used the occasion to highlight challenges facing the country.
For instance, at the dinner in Sembawang, Mr Khaw talked about the nature of online political discussions here, urging those with balanced views to join the conversation online.
He said: "You don't have to be pro-government but if you feel that a view is wrong or a half-truth has been presented, I think you can join in the discussion; so that if the majority of the people out there who are now silent begin to also take part in the discussion, I think we will then have a more balanced view and discussion on the Internet."
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