Singapore needs leaders who possess integrity, competence, and a deep sense of public service, said Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, as the country prepares for the upcoming general election.
Speaking about political leadership, DPM Heng stressed that those who step forward must do so for the right reasons. “Not because ‘I want to win an election’, not because ‘I want the power to do things’, but ‘I’m doing this for the long-term good of all Singaporeans’,” he said.
As chairman of the People’s Action Party (PAP), he said the party remains committed to steering Singapore forward. “We believe that as of today, we are still the best party to run the government, to take Singapore in a new direction.”
Reflecting on his own role during the pandemic, DPM Heng recalled how he delivered five emergency Budgets in 2020 to support Singaporeans and businesses. “I certainly wouldn’t have been able to do the five Budgets if I was out in the last election,” he said.
He emphasised that PAP MPs are not a monolith. “Each brings different perspectives, and we must remain a broad group that reflects the concerns and aspirations of Singaporeans.”
What unites them, he added, is a commitment to building a multiracial, multi-religious, multicultural society — and the ability to translate diverse views into coherent and effective policies.
DPM Heng also shared a recent conversation with a concerned citizen who worried about rising interest in simply increasing opposition presence in Parliament. “She said voters should choose those who can take the country forward. I agreed with her — but ultimately, it’s our people’s choice.”
He concluded by highlighting the importance of hardworking MPs who can mobilise and uplift their communities: “If you have good, competent MPs on the ground, your neighbourhood will be a better one.”
