During Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s Mandarin portion of his National Day Rally, he touched on a number of topics that included concerns that people had about Singapore’s political system, in the wake of several high-profile scandals involving politicians.
He said that no system is perfect, but assured Singaporeans that he and his team will “definitely do our utmost to maintain Singapore’s clean and effective political system and our reputation for incorruptibility”.
Snippet of PM Lee’s speech
Recent events involving political figures have made some Singaporeans uneasy. They wonder if there is something wrong with our system.
No system is perfect. Whether these events would be a blow to Singapore depends on how we respond. I and my team will definitely do our utmost to maintain Singapore’s clean and effective political system and our reputation for incorruptibility.
Our founding Prime Minister Mr Lee Kuan Yew dealt with similar situations decisively. I have dealt with these matters in the same way. I believe my successor will do so too.
This year is the 100th anniversary of Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s birth. Even as we remember him, we should also remember his guidance. Mr Lee thought that it was important to always remember certain hard truths if our country is to survive.
First, never allow our politics to become corrupt. At the same time, maintain the highest standards of integrity, so Singapore can continue to function well. With this as the foundation, we can implement our core values: Equality and meritocracy; bring out the best in our people and strive for excellence; grow our economy to improve the lives of Singaporeans; and build a multiracial and harmonious society.
What Singapore is today is due to the perseverance and determination of our founding fathers. Let us uphold the nation-building ideals of our founding fathers. So Singapore can continue to prosper and progress, brave the winds and storms that come our way, and still strive for a better tomorrow.
Thank you!