PM Lawrence Wong Outlines AI, Housing, Job Focus at Singapore National Day Rally

Singapore's 2025 National Day Rally, delivered by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, marked a significant moment as his first NDR and coincided with the nation’s 60th year of independence. PM Wong emphasized a leadership style of 'quiet confidence' and a forward-looking agenda focusing on adaptation, innovation, and social cohesion amid a turbulent global environment. Key initiatives include transformative housing and urban redevelopment projects in the north, such as the redevelopment of Kranji, Sembawang, and Woodlands to create vibrant, modern regional centers connected by improved transportation links like the Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link. The government is prioritizing job security despite the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and global trade barriers, with new efforts to enhance job matching and career fairs. PM Wong also highlighted health and social issues, including plans to reduce the years Singaporeans live with illness or disability and announced stricter penalties for vaping-related offenses. Overall, the government aims to sustain progress through resilience, innovation, and community trust, while addressing economic and societal challenges pragmatically without grandiosity.