On Sunday (16 March), during his visit to Sengkang West, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong addressed the financial challenges faced by young parents and highlighted government initiatives to support them.
He cited recent budget measures such as CDC vouchers, SG60 vouchers, and LifeSG credits, emphasizing the government’s commitment to easing the burdens of parenthood.
However, online sentiments reflected deep cynicism about the government’s ability—or willingness—to tackle cost-of-living issues effectively.
Many dismissed one-off vouchers and rebates as mere stopgap measures rather than long-term solutions. Others linked their financial struggles to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) hike, accusing the government of contradicting its earlier promises.
PM Wong Visits Sengkang, Pledges Support for Young Parents Amid Uncertainties
Speaking at the Sengkang West Sports and Family Fiesta, Wong acknowledged the challenges of parenting in Singapore, stating, “I know it’s not easy to be young parents, I know it’s not easy to have kids in Singapore. You have so many things to worry about, but we want to make this journey as convenient, as seamless, and as fuss-free as possible.”
He attended the event on Sunday as part of his ongoing series of constituency visits, which began in June 2024.
Wong’s visit to the opposition-held ward of Sengkang GRC took place on the first weekend after the country’s new electoral boundaries were released on 11 March.
“This is my first time visiting Sengkang as Prime Minister, and thank you very much for your warm welcome and hospitality,” he told residents.
As a relatively young town, Sengkang has a younger-than-average electorate, with more than 50 per cent of residents under 40 and just 19.2 per cent aged 60 and above.
Wong assured young parents that the government would support them in areas such as preschool, education, housing, and cost pressures.
He emphasised that Singapore must navigate its next phase of development amid global uncertainties, warning that no one would come to its rescue if challenges arise.
Instead, he urged Singaporeans to stand together in defending and advancing the nation’s interests to ensure its survival and success.
PAP Figures Present at Anchorvale Community Event
Wong attended the community event in Anchorvale alongside advisers to the Sengkang GRC grassroots organisations, including Dr Lam Pin Min, Associate Professor Elmie Nekmat, and Ms Theodora Lai.
Lawyer Kawal Pal Singh, a long-time PAP activist, was also present and has been seen accompanying Dr Lam at house visits and constituency events in Sengkang West.
Bernadette Giam, 38, a director at Creative Eateries, was also spotted at the event. She was appointed chairwoman of the PAP’s Sengkang East branch in January.
Netizens Express Frustration Over Cost of Living and Housing Woes
Comments on state media CNA’s Facebook post and Reddit reflected skepticism and frustration over Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s remarks, with many highlighting deep-seated concerns about the rising cost of living, housing affordability, and job security.
Many lamented that surviving on a single income has become increasingly difficult, leading to a growing reliance on dual-income households.
Despite making significant financial sacrifices for their children’s education, parents fear that economic uncertainties offer no guarantee of a secure future.
Concerns were also raised about wages failing to keep pace with inflation, unaffordable healthcare, and soaring insurance premiums.
Several netizens pointed to high BTO prices and long waiting times as major obstacles to family formation, arguing that public housing must be made more accessible to support financial stability and encourage higher birth rates.
Scepticism Over Government’s Cost-of-Living Measures
Some dismissed one-off vouchers and rebates as temporary relief rather than sustainable solutions.
They questioned the government’s commitment to tackling high costs, arguing that similar measures had failed in the past.
Financial and Caregiving Struggles Deter Family Formation
A comment lamented the heavy financial and caregiving burdens that make marriage and parenthood increasingly unattainable in Singapore.
The netizen highlighted rising costs in essentials such as medical care, transport, housing, utilities, and groceries.
The comment shared struggles balancing work with caring for elderly parents and disabled siblings, questioning the feasibility of raising children given their limited time and financial resources.
Many linked their financial hardships to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) increase, accusing the government of contradicting its earlier promises.
A netizen criticised rising costs in transport, utilities, and education, arguing that the government should prioritize affordability over continuous tax hikes.
He expressed frustration over CPF withdrawal restrictions, questioning why they are unable to access their own savings freely.
A netizen expressed doubt that Singapore’s leaders truly understand the struggles of ordinary citizens, suggesting they are detached from the realities faced by the lower and middle classes. He compared this to CEOs of large organisations, arguing that those at the top prioritise their own benefits over improving workers’ wages.
Netizens Mock PM Wong’s “First-Time” Visit to Sengkang as Overhyped
Some netizens found it ironic and amusing that PM Wong’s visit to Sengkang was portrayed as a major event, as if he were venturing into unfamiliar territory.
They pointed out that Sengkang is easily accessible and that politicians could visit more frequently if they truly wanted to engage with residents.
Many saw this as yet another example of the PAP’s limited presence in opposition-held wards, viewing Wong’s visit as more symbolic than a sincere effort to connect with Sengkang residents.
WP’s Jamus Lim Engages Residents as PM Wong Departs Anchorvale
Formed in 2020, Sengkang GRC was won by the opposition Workers’ Party in the last election and is one of nine constituencies that will not have their boundaries redrawn for the 2025 polls, expected by mid-year.
On 16 March, as PM Wong was leaving Anchorvale, Sengkang GRC MP Jamus Lim was seen speaking to residents at Anchorvale Village.
Associate Professor Lim stayed to observe the official opening of the mall, which was officiated by Senior Minister of State for National Development Sim Ann. When approached for comments, he declined to respond, according to CNA.
The post PM Wong pledges support for young parents; netizens lament hurdles to family formation amid rising costs appeared first on The Online Citizen.
