“PM Lawrence Wong Reflects on His Journey and Singapore’s Future: “Much More to Do” “

SINGAPORE: Born in 1972, just seven years after Singapore gained independence, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has witnessed Singapore’s transformation from a young nation to a global powerhouse. Speaking in an 11-minute video aired on May 15, the same day he was sworn in as prime minister, Wong reflected on his journey from Haig Boys’ Primary School to becoming Singapore’s fourth prime minister—a “story of possibilities,” he called it.

PM Wong shared that his father, who came from Malaysia seeking work, and his mother, who became a teacher, were part of Singapore’s pioneer generation that “believed in new possibilities” and worked hard for a brighter future. His father, who passed away three years ago, “certainly would have been surprised that a son of someone of his background could be prime minister,” Wong noted.

Yet, despite the progress, Wong emphasized there is “still much more to do,” citing urgent global challenges like climate change and geopolitical tensions. At his swearing-in ceremony, he urged Singaporeans to join him in creating a society “where everyone matters.”

Attendees at the ceremony, such as SMRT train operations specialist Pravita Nithiah Nandan and SBS Transit chief bus captain Mak Mun Whai, praised Wong’s ambitious vision, describing him as “confident” and “like my next-door neighbor,” ready to engage all citizens in shaping Singapore’s future.