SINGAPORE: People’s Action Party (PAP) Secretary General Lawrence Wong has expressed concerns about global instability and its potential impact on Singapore, warning that the country is entering turbulent times.
Speaking on Thursday, 17 April 2025, at the PAP manifesto launch for the upcoming General Election, Wong underlined the urgency for strong leadership as the world faces mounting uncertainty.
As the PAP prepares for the 3 May polls, Wong addressed some 400 party activists at AUX Infinite Studios, reminding them of the gravity of the situation.
He responded to critics who downplay the risks posed by the US tariffs and global trade tensions, asserting that the PAP’s approach would always be to “be upfront and transparent in highlighting the challenges ahead.”
Wong stressed that Singapore’s future, and that of its citizens, depended on the country’s ability to navigate the global volatility.
“How we manage these turbulent times will determine our future and our children’s future,” he said.
The backdrop of Wong’s remarks centres on the ongoing trade conflict ignited by the imposition of tariffs by US President Donald Trump.
Wong noted that the world was undergoing profound changes, with the US-China trade war continuing to escalate.
“The global conditions that have supported Singapore’s survival, security, and success are coming apart,” he explained.
“The rules-based global system that once guaranteed stability and prosperity is now eroding.”
This growing instability has led Wong to call for a General Election at this critical juncture, as the country faces what he described as a “gathering storm.” He said, “At this critical point, Singaporeans must decide on the team to lead us forward, and to chart our way together.”
The PAP’s campaign slogan for the 2025 General Election, as revealed by Wong, is “Changed world, fresh team, new resolve – securing a brighter future for you.”
Wong expressed concern that the global economy would face significant challenges due to the unexpected scale of the US tariffs, which have far exceeded initial predictions.
“It’s the biggest shock the post-World War II global system has experienced,” he remarked.
He added that such changes would weigh heavily on the global economy, leading to further uncertainty for small nations like Singapore.
In light of these global developments, the Ministry of Trade and Industry revised Singapore’s growth forecast downwards, with a recession and job losses now seen as possible outcomes.
Wong highlighted that the global political landscape was equally worrisome, particularly with the retreat of the US from its role as the world’s primary stabiliser.
“No country is able or willing to fill the gap left by America’s withdrawal,” he said.
Amid this backdrop, Wong noted the uncertainty facing Singapore’s economic and geopolitical stability, describing the period as one of “messy transition, fragmentation, and more contestation.”
PAP to field 32 new candidates in the upcoming election
Wong also announced that the PAP would field 32 new candidates in the upcoming election, the largest number of new faces in the party’s recent history.
These candidates, representing a variety of sectors including the Singapore Armed Forces, public service, academia, unions, and non-governmental organisations, will stand in 24 PAP-held constituencies.
The Prime Minister also highlighted a historic milestone, with 13 women among the 32 new candidates, comprising more than a third of the newcomers.
This is the highest number of women the party has fielded in its history, a sign of its commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
Wong expressed confidence that several of the new candidates would play a prominent role in shaping Singapore’s political future.
“Some of the younger candidates, if elected, could form the core of the next 5G team,” he said, referring to the next generation of leaders who will guide the country in the years ahead.
As of Thursday, the PAP has unveiled its line-up for 16 constituencies, with more announcements expected in the lead-up to the nomination day on 23 April.
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