PM Wong acknowledges workers' concerns over jobs and costs, vows continued support

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has pledged to continue support for workers amid concerns about jobs and rising costs, he said on Sunday (Oct 25).

PM Wong was delivering a speech to 3,000 party activists at the People's Action Party (PAP) Awards and Conference 2026 at the Singapore Expo, where he highlighted how investments from across the globe have benefitted Singapore, creating jobs and increasing incomes.

However, PM Wong, who is also the PAP's secretary-general, is aware that these numbers are not representative of all sectors across the board.

While some sectors are performing well, others may be facing increased pressures, reflecting how some workers may be "struggling to keep up", even amid new opportunities.

In particular, lower-wage workers have expressed worries about keeping pace with rising costs, while some Singaporeans in their 40s or 50s who have lost their jobs may worry about whether they can find employment again.

"We understand these concerns and we will respond to them," PM Wong promised. 

"Our task is not just to keep the economy growing. It is to make sure that growth translates into better lives for all Singaporeans."

'A mandate is not an entitlement'

Earlier in his speech, PM Wong noted that Singaporeans had given the PAP a strong mandate to govern for another term, and said the party was grateful for their trust.

"But we must always remember: a mandate is not an entitlement," he said. 

At the General Election 2025, the PAP won 65.57 per cent of the vote share, up from 61.24 per cent in 2020.

However, the PAP must not rest on their laurels and must deliver on what the party has promised, to tackle issues Singapore faces and prepare for what lies ahead, PM Wong stressed.

"We must never take the trust of Singaporeans for granted," he said. "After all, no political party has a permanent claim on that trust.

"Every generation of PAP leaders and activists must earn it afresh."

The PAP must hold themselves to high standards, listening to the public and delivering on promises while putting Singapore and Singaporeans first, he emphasised.

"That is the responsibility we have been entrusted with. That is what Singaporeans expect of us. And we will not let them down."

He also stated that the road ahead may not be easy as challenges continue to surface in a "dangerous and troubled" world.

Singapore, however, has an advantage - it takes on these challenges from a position of strength, he said, as the country remains a trusted partner and an attractive place for businesses and investors.

'Workers must be prepared to adapt'

PM Wong also highlighted some of the support measures announced for families with children at the National Day Rally this year.

Under the SG Child Support Package, every Singaporean child will receive up to $62,000 in direct support, bringing the total amount to $70,000 with existing benefits.

"Having children brings great joy, but it also brings additional expenses and pressures," he explained. "So we are doing more to ease the burdens on parents and give families greater assurance."

Addressing feedback on the limited number of policy announcements relating to those without children, singles and seniors, PM Wong said that the PAP will serve all Singaporeans - but he could not announce everything in a single speech.

Sharing that the PAP has a "full agenda" in their term of government, PM Wong said that they will continue to address cost of living pressures and help Singaporeans secure better jobs.

"We will strengthen support at different life stages, from education to retirement," he promised, adding that the Government is working closely with the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and other unions to help workers adapt to change.

While the Government will do their part, each individual has a part to play, he also said.

"We will create opportunities and support workers through change, but workers must be prepared to learn and adapt," he added. 

"Everyone has a role to play. The Singapore we want cannot be simply delivered by the government to Singaporeans. It has to be built with Singaporeans, and that is the partnership we strive for."

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