Lawrence Wong, Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, is set to officially take over from incumbent Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on May 15. At 51, Wong expressed his commitment in a heartfelt video statement posted on Facebook, saying, \"I accept this responsibility with humility and a deep sense of duty. I pledge to give my all to this undertaking.\"
Forward Singapore Initiative
In June 2022, Wong launched Forward Singapore, a national exercise aimed at redefining the country's social compact. This initiative engaged over 200,000 Singaporeans to collaboratively address pressing issues such as sustainability, inequality, and employment. The first phase of the Forward Singapore agenda was unveiled in Budget 2024, featuring enhancements to the SkillsFuture scheme for mid-career workers and increased support for graduates from the Institute of Technical Education, as reported by The Straits Times.
Prime Minister Lee highlighted that through the Forward Singapore exercise, Wong and the growing fourth generation of leaders worked closely with citizens to refresh the social contract and develop a forward-looking national agenda for the new generation.
In addition to his political roles, Wong serves as the Deputy Chairman of the sovereign wealth fund GIC and the Chairman of the Monetary Authority of Singapore, the country's central bank. He also co-chaired the Multi-Ministry Taskforce on COVID-19, overseeing the government's response to the pandemic.
Political observers credit Wong's steady leadership style during the COVID-19 crisis, his clear communication of policies, and his strong grasp of economic details as key factors that positioned him as the frontrunner to lead Singapore.
A Distinguished Career in Public Service
Wong was first elected as a Member of Parliament in May 2011 and has since held various ministerial positions, including roles in defense, communications and information, culture, community and youth, national development, and education ministries. Prior to his political career, Wong dedicated 14 years to civil service, serving as the Chief Executive of the Energy Market Authority and the Principal Private Secretary to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
Known for his strong policy acumen and economic expertise, Wong is praised by his colleagues for being open to discussions and diverse viewpoints while maintaining the firmness to make decisive decisions. He holds a master's degree in public administration from the Harvard Kennedy School, further solidifying his credentials as a capable and thoughtful leader.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
