World Affairs: June 2024

Written by: Justa Wee Jia Qi (24-E4), Del Rosario Julianna Kathlyn Katigbak (24-E6), Tan Kai Rui (24-I1), Hung Jia Xuan (24-I6), Ye Yongle Marco (24-O1), Chong Jia Jun, Skyler (24-U2), Yee Yi Xin Kristen (24-U6)

Designed by: Tan Kai Rui (24-I1)

On April 16 2024, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) announced that former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong would be stepping down, with Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong taking over Mr Lee on May 15 2024. This signals the transition from the third-generation (3G) to the fourth-generation (4G) of the political team, marking a significant moment for the country.

The transition comes after a string of delays stemming from the Covid-19 Pandemic in 2020. In 2021, it was announced that the intended next Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, would step down as leader for the 4G team. This resulted in a massive delay and period of uncertainty as to who would take up the mantle of Singapore’s next Prime Minister.

However on April 15 2022, it was finally announced that the next 4G leader, and future Prime Minister, would be Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. Former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong later said that he would be handing over the leadership to Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong by November 2024, marking the end of Mr Lee Hsien Loong’s tenure as Prime Minister of Singapore.

With Prime Minister Lawrence Wong having been sworn in on 15th May, Singapore’s leadership has been handed over to the next generation. And that generation is led by Mr Lawrence Wong.

Lawrence Wong, the Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore, is a prominent figure in the country's political landscape, renowned for his astute leadership and strategic vision. Born on December 19, 1972, Mr Wong embarked on his political career after a successful stint in finance. With a strong academic background in economics and public policy, he swiftly rose through the ranks, serving in various ministerial roles before assuming the position of Deputy Prime Minister. Known for his pragmatic approach and commitment to Singapore's continued progress, Mr Wong played a pivotal role in shaping policies that drive economic growth, foster social cohesion, and address emerging challenges. His leadership is characterised by a focus on innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, reflecting his dedication to ensuring a prosperous future for all Singaporeans.

One date to look forward to is the next general election which could be held as early as September. Alternatively, it could be held after the National Day rally or at the end of the year so as to have a long enough “runway” to gain support from Singaporeans.

The step down of PM Lee begs the question of what Singaporeans are feeling about this change. Ministers and members of the parliament have expressed their heartfelt goodbyes and gratitude to former PM Lee’s decades of service, with Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies Heng Swee Keat recalling him as a leader with “quiet wisdom and a steady hand”. Many netizens also took to social media, some commenting fondly how they will miss him once he passes on his role. However, this is not to say Singaporeans are not equally confident in Mr Lee’s successor. According to a survey done by YouGov.sg, those of an opinion of the new Prime Minister generally have a positive one. Most importantly, more than half of those surveyed believe PM Wong to be competent. As a society, this change in leadership is shaping up to be something we can look forward to. 

Singapore’s political system works on a basis of continuity and progressive change, therefore, when there is a leadership transition, former ministers continue to contribute in different ways. Former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will stay in the cabinet as Senior Minister after stepping down as the leader of the government. Among the executive branch officeholders in the order of precedence, this position ranks after the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister. Senior Ministers also serve as part of the Prime Minister's Office and work at The Istana. Hence, in his capacity as Senior Minister, Lee Hsien Loong may serve in advisory roles to the current government, offering guidance on important matters of state. There would also not be major changes to the rest of the lineup, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong mentioned.

Mr Lee Hsien Loong’s retirement, while not directly impacting much of Singaporeans day to day lives, is still an important moment in our history. Given that he took office back in 2004, serving for 20 years, many Singaporeans have only known life with Mr Lee as their Prime Minister. As citizens, we should keep an open mind and try to be understanding to Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and his team as they lead Singapore in an increasingly bipolar world. We must continue to play our role as active citizens, participating in public affairs and helping our leaders shape Singapore into the Singapore we want to see. Of course, while we do not know what the future holds, just as we have overcome many challenges in the past, we can surely overcome whatever troubles lie ahead!