Parliament reopens: President's Address 2014

'Renew pledge to build a better Singapore'

President makes call, and outlines Govt's plans as Parliament opens

By Robin Chan, The Straits Times, 17 May 2014

WITH Singapore approaching its 50th year of independence, President Tony Tan Keng Yam yesterday called on its citizens to pledge anew to build a better and brighter country, as he sketched out new plans to improve their lives.

Evoking the country's past to rally Singapore for the future, the President recalled the spirit of the pioneers in overcoming obstacles to build the nation.

"The best way to honour our pioneers is to uphold this same pioneering spirit - to dream and fight for Singapore," he said.

"We, and especially our young, must take the torch, run faster and further, and keep Singapore's light burning bright."

His customary address to open the second half of the 12th Parliament's term after a month-long break held a special significance, as the President noted: Singapore is celebrating its 50 years of independence next year. "At 50, we are still a young nation, with great promise ahead," he said.

Before a packed chamber of ministers and MPs including former prime minister Lee Kuan Yew, Dr Tan outlined the Government's new strategies to help the young and old, build stronger families and communities, and improve the quality of life for all in a continuation of the new way forward this Government has set out earlier. He noted that the Government has made major shifts over the last decade to build a more inclusive society and transform the economy, and he sketched out broadly more changes and enhancements to come in areas ranging from education and housing, to the Central Provident Fund and national service.

On education, he acknowledged parents' concerns about competition in schools such as the PSLE and said the Government will improve the system so that "no single point in our education system will wholly determine the future".

It will strive to keep pathways upwards open to all Singaporeans as Singapore must remain a nation of opportunities for all. "Those who do not succeed at first should have a second chance, indeed, must always have the chance to try again," he said.

The Government will do more to strengthen social safety nets, not only with the new MediShield Life universal insurance to come, but also to improve key retirement schemes in the CPF savings and CPF Life annuity, he said without elaborating. More choices will be given to Singaporeans to monetise their homes for retirement, and new housing options will be offered for family bonding.

Dr Tan also painted a future of Singapore as a "Smart Nation" with more green, urban living, more transport options, better delivery of public services, and more citizen engagement.

"Our plans for the future reflect our determination to keep adapting, improving and upgrading ourselves," he said.

But even as he spoke of a bright future, he had words of caution.

As more public funds are used for social programmes, the spending must be sustainable. It must be matched by the efforts of individuals and the community, who feel a sense of responsibility for one another "and not just a sense of entitlement to the benefits of citizenship".

Neither can Singapore be "just a marketplace in the global economy", he said, as it is "first and foremost our home".

The President also called for "constructive politics" that would not weaken Singapore, even as he welcomed vigorous debate on the challenges ahead.

And noting troubles in Ukraine and tensions in the region, he said the country's security cannot be taken for granted. "Singapore will always be a small country, constantly navigating dangers and threats in an uncertain world."

On the future, he said "our best years lie ahead" and called on Singaporeans to "pledge anew to build a better, brighter Singapore".

From Monday, the ministries will announce details of their new programmes, which Parliament will spend a week debating from May 26.

CONTINUE TO DREAM AND FIGHT FOR SINGAPORE

Our Golden Jubilee will be an occasion for us to re-dedicate ourselves to building a better Singapore.

Our pioneers had a dream of what Singapore could be. They fought for our independence, and toiled for our success.

They succeeded in large measure, and created in Singapore something special and precious for all of us to enjoy. The Pioneer Generation Package is a sincere expression of appreciation for their sacrifices and contributions.

But the best way to honour our pioneers is to uphold this same pioneering spirit - to dream and fight for Singapore.

We must be stewards of our pioneers' success, and leave behind a better Singapore than we inherited.

We, and especially our young, must take the torch, run faster and further, and keep Singapore's light burning bright.

Our best years lie ahead. We have not overcome all our challenges, but we are determined to do so, and we will.

- President Tony Tan Keng Yam

Post by Lee Hsien Loong.

Greater peace of mind when Singaporeans retire
Govt to enhance social safety nets and help elderly, vulnerable cope
By Andrea Ong, The Straits Times, 17 May 2014

MORE will be done to ensure that Singaporeans do not have to worry about their finances when they retire, said President Tony Tan Keng Yam last night.

The Government will improve the existing Central Provident Fund (CPF) savings and CPF Life annuity schemes, and develop more options for Singaporeans to unlock the value of their homes on their retirement, he said.

These measures to give citizens - who are living longer - financial security in their golden years are part of the overall move to strengthen social safety nets and help the vulnerable and elderly cope with the "vicissitudes of life", said Dr Tan.

He was speaking at the reopening of Parliament last night, after a busy first session that saw the unveiling of such social policies as MediShield Life and the Pioneer Generation Package.

"Beyond equal opportunities for fulfilment, every Singaporean should enjoy a fair share of our nation's success," said Dr Tan.

He pledged to strengthen social safety nets to give all Singaporeans peace of mind as well as to share the fruits of progress more widely, particularly with the lower-income and vulnerable groups.

Noting several times in his speech that special attention would be given to the vulnerable, including low-wage workers and the elderly, Dr Tan said social safety nets would get a boost beyond the twin pillars of home ownership and Workfare.

Still, helping Singaporeans own their own homes remains a key strategy, he said. Home ownership has made "an enormous contribution" in levelling up society, by enabling citizens - especially the lower-income - to shore up significant assets and have a tangible stake in the nation's progress.

"No other country in the world has done this," said Dr Tan.

Housing will continue to be affordable, while the Government will help low- and middle-income households own their Housing Board homes and build up a retirement nest-egg, he added.

New housing options are also in the works to encourage extended families to live closer together.

Dr Tan also reiterated the Government's commitment to ensuring affordable and quality health care for all Singaporeans.

In the past year, the Community Health Assist Scheme, which subsidises care for the lower- and middle-income at private GP and dental clinics, has removed its age restrictions to let everyone in these groups benefit.

Medisave use has been expanded and outpatient care subsidies raised.

Details of MediShield Life, the national health insurance scheme to cover all for life, are being finalised by the review committee, said Dr Tan. "We will ensure that premiums are affordable for all."

But even as more help is extended to the vulnerable, the poor and the old, it is important that people are given the means and incentive to help themselves, said Dr Tan.

"Singaporeans believe that personal responsibility and effort are essential to their dignity and self-worth," he said. "This was the pioneering spirit that built the Singapore we see today."

Dr Tan also sounded a note of caution: While the Government will spend more over the next decade and beyond, especially on social programmes, it must ensure its social spending can be sustained and that it has enough revenue to balance its budget.

"But at the same time, government spending, by itself, does not create a wealthier, a better or a happier society," said Dr Tan, as such spending must be matched by initiatives and effort by individuals and the community.

Stressing the importance of active community involvement, he said: "This is how we will build a nation for tomorrow, a home where we feel a sense of responsibility for one another, and not just a sense of entitlement to the benefits of citizenship."

OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL

Singapore must remain a nation of opportunities for all. Those who do not succeed at first should have a second chance, indeed must always have the chance to try again. We want an open and inclusive society, where all have opportunities to learn, and to earn our own success.

STRONGER SOCIAL SAFETY NETS

Every Singaporean should enjoy a fair share of our nation's success. We will strengthen our social safety nets, not only to give all Singaporeans peace of mind, but also to share the fruits of progress more widely, especially with the lower-income and vulnerable groups.

SPENDING MORE, BUT WISELY

Government spending will increase over the next decade and beyond, especially on social programmes. We have to ensure that our social spending can be sustained, and that we have enough revenues to balance our budget. But government spending, by itself, does not create a wealthier, a better or a happier society. It must be matched by individual and community effort and initiatives.

NOT A MARKETPLACE, BUT HOME

Singapore cannot be just a marketplace in the global economy. For every one of us, it is first and foremost our home: where we sink our roots, raise our families and share life's ups and downs together with one another. Singapore must be a home that endears, with an active citizenry dedicated to creating our shared future.

STAYING UNITED, AMID DEBATE

We should continue to have vigorous debates on the challenges facing our nation, and be prepared to take necessary and bold decisions for our future... Sometimes these debates will stir great passions, but we cannot allow our differences to pull us apart. So while we may have differing views, all sides must take a long-term perspective for the common good. And once the debate is settled, we must come together again...

Education system 'will be continually improved'
By Maryam Mokhtar, The Straits Times, 17 May 2014

SINGAPORE'S education system will be continually improved so that a person's future is not decided at just one single point in his learning journey, said President Tony Tan Keng Yam.

Also, more will be done, from pre-school education to lifelong learning for workers, to ensure the pathways upwards are open to all Singaporeans, regardless of background or family circumstances.

In his address at the re-opening of Parliament yesterday, Dr Tan said Singapore must remain a nation of opportunities for all.

"Those who do not succeed at first should have a second chance, indeed must always have the chance to try again," he said.

"We want an open and inclusive society, where all have opportunities to learn, and to earn our own success; where we respect fellow Singaporeans, regardless of social status, for the worth we see in everyone; and where we interact informally with one another free of rigid social hierarchy."

The education system, he said, must uphold this ethos, allowing the abilities of Singaporeans to be fully developed.

To achieve it, the Government will invest more early on, by improving pre-school education so that the less privileged can get a good start.

He noted the competitive milestones in the education system such as Primary 1 registration and the Primary School Leaving Examination.

But improvements will be made so that "no one single point in our education will wholly determine our future".

"We will ensure that every school is a good school, and offer more opportunities for students to hone their interests and talents across many fields," he added.

Different options that cater to students' varying abilities and rates of development will also be created.

For example, the Aspire committee will explore ways to create more opportunities for ITE and polytechnic students.

The committee will recommend, later this year, ways for these institutions to stay in tune with the changing economy.

The number of university places will also be increased, with new degree programmes that will focus more on practical application, said Dr Tan.

But learning is a lifelong process, he said, pledging that the Government will help workers upgrade their skills and stay abreast of changing industry demands.

"This is critical because jobs are changing faster, and knowledge is becoming obsolete more quickly," said the President.

To this end, the continuing education and training system will be strengthened, including the two new centres in Paya Lebar and Jurong.

These various efforts are aimed not only at the low-income workers, but also middle-income employees, professionals, executives and managers, said Dr Tan.

'Debate welcome but beware divisive politics'
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 17 May 2014

A WARNING bell about divisive politics was sounded in Parliament yesterday, with President Tony Tan Keng Yam urging Singaporeans to debate with vigour but not at the expense of Singapore's well-being.

Conflicting views and robust debate are welcome but when they divide people, the fallout would weaken the country, Dr Tan said.

His red alert came amid the picture he sketched of a brighter future for Singapore that includes stronger social safety nets for the elderly and vulnerable, and an education system that will give people more than one shot at success.

"To achieve all these ambitious goals, it is crucial to maintain constructive politics that puts our nation and our people first," he said.

While Dr Tan acknowledged that politics thrives on robust debate, he also pointed out that heated arguments have their shortcomings.

"In many countries, the hurly-burly of politics has resulted in short-term populist measures, and sometimes gridlock and paralysis," he said.

Dr Tan encouraged everyone to join in the discussion, scrutinising policies and speaking up to secure "the best ideas and best leadership for Singapore".

Sometimes the debates stir great passion but after policies are formulated and Bills passed, differences must be put aside for Singapore to move forward as a nation.

"All sides must take a long-term perspective for the common good. And once the debate is settled, we must come together again, to move ahead as one united people."

A smart Singapore in the works
By Charissa Yong, The Straits Times, 17 May 2014

IN A world of smartphones, smart cards and smart TV, Singapore is seeking to be a Smart Nation - one which uses new technology to improve the quality of life for all.

That was the picture of the country's future painted by President Tony Tan Keng Yam yesterday.

New technological solutions will be used to make urban living safer, cleaner and greener, and increase the transport options here.

The elderly will also be better cared for at home, citizens will have more chances to participate in civic life, and public services will be more responsive.

"We will make full use of new technologies to develop sustainable and innovative solutions that improve our lives," said Dr Tan.

More details will be given by the various ministries next week.

In his speech, Dr Tan stressed the importance of making Singapore a good home in which people can thrive.

"Singapore cannot be just a marketplace in the global economy. For every one of us, it is first and foremost our home," he said.

To improve the living environment for Singaporeans, the Government will continue to upgrade the heartlands.

Housing Board neighbourhoods will be connected to a more extensive and convenient transport network, and be near green corridors and waterways, as well as sports and leisure facilities.

But there will also be more demands on amenities, infrastructure and resource as Singapore becomes more complex and diverse, Dr Tan acknowledged.

This is where more new technologies can make life better for everyone, he added.

Such technologies are already being used.

New HDB estates are already being designed using a computer simulation program, which lets planners optimise wind flow and reduce heat levels.

Public housing residents in 12 town councils can also use the iTown@SG smartphone app to report defects and maintenance issues in their neighbourhood.

Beyond having good infrastructure, a good home also reflects the best of its people, said Dr Tan.

Singapore must keep on being a place where people of different races, religions and backgrounds live harmoniously together.

"We also have new immigrants and foreigners amongst us, who contribute to our society and economy. Let us treat them with graciousness, kindness and fellowship, even as we expect them to respect our values and our Singaporean way of life," he added.

Shift to social sector rights the balance: ESM Goh
By Charissa Yong, The Sunday Times, 18 May 2014

The President's Address affirmed the Government's "dramatic shift" towards the social sector, said Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong yesterday.

But he had a word of reassurance for citizens who were fearful that other bread-and-butter issues like economic growth, transport and living costs were being de-emphasised.

This was not the case. Rather, the social sector is playing catch-up as there is still much to be done.

Social issues, he added, will define Singapore's politics as the country approaches its 50th year of independence next year.

"I am heartened that the Government will focus more on people, on you and your family, as opposed to the constant drone on statistics of growth and physical development," wrote ESM Goh, who is also an MP for Marine Parade GRC.

For Singapore to be an endearing home, the yin and yang of development must be in harmony, he added.

"The cold, hard efficiency of development must be balanced by the warm, soft embrace of government. This is the yin-yang model of development which I believe is the right one to take us as individuals and as a country into the future," the former prime minister added.

Other politicians also chipped in yesterday with their thoughts on President Tony Tan Keng Yam's speech.

Delivered on Friday night at the reopening of Parliament, it laid out the Government's broad policy directions for the second half of its term.

Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen, who is also Leader of the House, said at a community event: "We understand economic survival, defence and security are very important.

"But we wanted to focus more on what it means to have a family here, what it means for each one of us to have a home. This is what Singaporeans will now have to ask themselves and we can work together to... build a better home for ourselves."

Dr Tan had in his speech called on citizens to pledge anew to build a better and brighter country, ahead of Singapore celebrating its Golden Jubilee next year.

Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Lawrence Wong, meanwhile, was struck by how Singapore's pioneers fought for the country's independence and toiled for its success. They were given special mention in the President's speech.

On Facebook, Mr Wong urged Singaporeans to be stewards of their forefathers' success and "pledge to leave behind a better Singapore than we inherited".

An invitation to renew vows
Call for Singaporeans to re-dedicate themselves to building better nation
By Lydia Lim, The Straits Times, 17 May 2014

IF THE relationship between government and citizens can be compared to a marriage, then the President's speech last night was an invitation to renew wedding vows as the couple prepare to celebrate their 50th anniversary.

The occasion itself, the Opening of Parliament, is a formal ceremony at which by convention, President Tony Tan Keng Yam, as the head of state, reads out a speech prepared for him by the Government setting out its agenda for the rest of its term.

Last night's speech though reached out to touch not just the intellects but also the hearts of Singaporeans. It recalled the depth of feeling and the shared dream that started the Government and people on this journey together.

Back in 1965, when President Yusof Ishak opened the first Parliament of a newly independent Singapore, he held out the hope of a "tolerant society, multiracial, multireligious, multilingual, welded ever closer together by ties of common experience", President Tan said, addressing a packed chamber that included Mr Lee Kuan Yew, the only member of today's Parliament who was present when those words were first spoken.

The pioneer generation of Singaporeans who took the plunge with the old guard ministers and parliamentarians, toiled to create "something special and precious for all of us to enjoy".

"Our Golden Jubilee will be an occasion for us to re-dedicate ourselves to building a better Singapore," President Tan said.

For the next part of their journey together, the Government as husband wooed Singaporeans with a vision of a life where each person will be valued and respected, regardless of status, where the young can flourish in an education system that gives them second chances, and opportunities to fulfil their potential and pursue their dreams, where the old will enjoy security in their retirement, and where all will enjoy a high quality of life with good homes and transport options.

But as in any partnership, both sides must pitch in to make it work. Singaporeans cannot afford to just sit back and take what the Government has to give.

They should involve themselves in the work of building a home where all feel a sense of responsibility for each other, all working together to create a shared future, the President said.

As for what could threaten the success of this union, he highlighted the dangers of competitive politics, which in some countries has led to short-term populist measures and even gridlock and paralysis. "This sort of politics will weaken Singapore," he said, adding that it was important to keep politics constructive.

Even as he acknowledged the importance of vigorous debates to ensure the best ideas and best leadership for Singapore, President Tan said:

"While we may have differing views, all sides must take a long-term perspective for the common good. And once the debate is settled, we must come together again, to move ahead as one united people."

This section of the speech acknowledged implicitly the electorate's growing desire for opposition representation in Parliament, to provide checks and balances on the People's Action Party, which despite a setback in the last General Election in 2011, still controls 80 of the 87 elected seats in the House.

In this changed political landscape, the Government must work even harder to connect with citizens and keep society pulling together in the same direction.

The President's speech highlighted two areas in which collaboration continues to be vital: working together to keep Singapore safe against external threats, and constantly adapting to changing circumstances so as to keep the economy growing and society inclusive.

While acknowledging the challenges and the hard work that lies ahead, the President was emphatic that Singapore's best years are yet to be. "At 50, we are still a young nation, with great promise ahead," he said.

He urged all Singaporeans to keep faith with the pioneers and their dream of what this nation could be, and to honour it by daring to dream and fight for an even better Singapore.

Those are inspiring words but a question mark hangs over whether they will stir many to action, because after many years of an unequal marriage where one partner was far more dominant than the other, citizens too need time to get used to the idea that they should step up more and take charge of their own destinies, and that of Singapore's.

Mr Lee Kuan Yew attends opening
The Straits Times, 17 May 2014

MR LEE Kuan Yew was one of the first to enter Parliament's main chamber yesterday evening, arriving at 8.24pm.

The Member of Parliament for Tanjong Pagar, a ward he has represented since 1955, was helped to his seat in the front row on the backbencher's side of the House, to wait for President Tony Tan Keng Yam's address at the opening of the second session of the 12th Parliament.

Many ministers, MPs and Nominated MPs went up to Mr Lee either before or after the President's address to greet him and shake his hand.

Mr Lee, who was prime minister from 1959 to 1990, stepped down from the Cabinet in May 2011.

This is the second opening of Parliament that he is attending as a non-office holder.