Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is set to outline new government initiatives aimed at supporting families with the financial and practical challenges of raising children during his National Day Rally speech on August 23. The move comes amid growing concerns from parents and caregivers who feel the pressures of balancing work, caregiving, and the higher costs associated with child-rearing.
In his National Day message delivered on August 8, PM Wong acknowledged that the government is conducting a comprehensive review of family support measures across various life stages, beyond just marriage and parenthood. This review, led by an inter-ministry Marriage and Parenthood Reset Workgroup established in April, is focused on addressing issues such as the high costs of raising children, access to affordable infant and childcare, and broader efforts to alleviate burdens on families amid Singapore’s record-low total fertility rate.
Highlighting global trends, PM Wong noted that family life is under increasing strain worldwide. Parents face heightened expectations to provide optimal opportunities for their children, while also managing responsibilities toward elderly relatives and demanding work commitments. “We hear these concerns in Singapore too,” he said.
The Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring economic growth and technological progress translate into improved quality of life for all Singaporeans. He described Singapore’s vision as one where people can pursue aspirations with confidence, raise families with peace of mind, and maintain a hopeful outlook for the future.
Technology is a key element in this vision. PM Wong acknowledged that while social media platforms help maintain connections and foster expression, parents have legitimate concerns over their impact on children’s mental health and development. To address this, the government plans to introduce stronger safeguards to protect children and support their safe and responsible navigation of the digital environment.
On artificial intelligence (AI), Singapore intends to harness its benefits to boost productivity and create better employment opportunities. This will be complemented by sustained investment in skills development and workforce training, equipping workers to adapt to technological advances. PM Wong stressed a prudent approach to new technologies, saying Singapore must embrace innovations on its own terms to ensure they serve people, support communities, and enhance lives.
Addressing broader national and global challenges, PM Wong observed that Singapore’s economy has remained resilient despite uncertainties stemming from geopolitical conflicts, trade tensions, and diminished international trust. The Middle East crisis, in particular, has affected the country through higher energy costs and supply chain disruptions. Even so, Singapore posted robust economic growth in the first half of 2026, with stability in the labor market and new job creation, especially benefiting from rapid AI growth in sectors like semiconductors.
The government has acted swiftly to protect Singaporeans abroad during the Middle East conflict and has implemented support packages to assist households and businesses coping with uncertainty. “We cannot control events beyond our shores. But we can control how we respond. And we will always stand by Singaporeans,” PM Wong said.
Looking ahead, Singapore plans to refresh its economic strategies to enhance industry competitiveness and trade positioning. These efforts aim not only to manage current challenges but to build a stronger, more resilient future.
PM Wong also reaffirmed Singapore’s long-term approach to national development, including strengthening energy security, optimizing land use, and investing in future infrastructure. He underscored the importance of remaining open to new ideas and international engagement, noting that Singapore’s openness has been integral to its historic success.
Concluding his message, PM Wong invoked the principles of the National Pledge, emphasizing unity beyond differences of race, language, or religion. He urged all Singaporeans to contribute toward building a better future for coming generations, honoring the legacy of past efforts. He also extended his best wishes for a happy National Day.