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Singapore's DPM Wong Delivers Cautious Optimism for Lunar New Year

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. livers-cautious-optimism-for-lunar-new-year.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at 21:17 GMT by Asia One
      Locale: N/A, SINGAPORE

Singapore, February 16th, 2026 - Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong delivered a Chinese New Year message today, striking a tone of cautious optimism as Singapore enters the Year of the Fire Horse. In a post shared across social media platforms, Mr. Wong acknowledged the significant global uncertainties facing the nation but underscored the importance of resilience, adaptability, and continued progress.

The global landscape remains complex. Lingering effects from previous economic disruptions, compounded by ongoing geopolitical instability - specifically referencing the evolving situation in the South China Sea and increasing trade tensions between major global powers - present substantial headwinds for small, open economies like Singapore. Mr. Wong's message wasn't a dismissal of these concerns, but rather a call to arms, emphasizing the nation's strengths and the proactive steps needed to navigate the challenges ahead.

"The Year of the Fire Horse, traditionally associated with dynamism and vigour, demands that we meet these challenges head-on," Mr. Wong stated. "It's a time for bold action, for embracing change, and for leveraging our inherent strengths to build a stronger, more resilient Singapore."

Beyond simply weathering the storm, Mr. Wong focused on the need for long-term strategic investments in Singapore's most valuable asset: its people. He stressed the critical importance of continuous upskilling and reskilling initiatives, particularly in areas aligned with the future of work - including artificial intelligence, sustainable technologies, and advanced manufacturing. The SkillsFuture initiative, launched several years prior, is receiving renewed emphasis, with the government pledging increased funding and expanded course offerings. Several new "Future Skills" bootcamps are slated to launch in the next quarter, focusing on practical, immediately applicable skills.

"The world is changing at an unprecedented pace," Mr. Wong explained. "Remaining competitive requires a workforce that is not only skilled but also adaptable, capable of embracing new technologies and methodologies. We must ensure that every Singaporean has the opportunity to acquire the skills they need to thrive in this evolving landscape."

However, economic progress alone isn't sufficient. Mr. Wong also highlighted the importance of strengthening Singapore's "social compact" - the implicit agreement between the government, businesses, and citizens that fosters a sense of shared responsibility and collective progress. This involves addressing issues of income inequality, ensuring access to affordable healthcare and education, and providing robust social safety nets for those who need them. The government recently announced a review of existing social support programs to ensure they are effectively targeting vulnerable populations and providing meaningful assistance.

"Progress is not just about economic indicators; it's about ensuring that the benefits of our success are shared by all Singaporeans," Mr. Wong emphasized. "A strong social compact is essential for building a cohesive and harmonious society, one where everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to contribute."

Looking ahead, Singapore is actively positioning itself as a regional hub for innovation and sustainability. The nation's commitment to green technologies, coupled with its strategic location and robust infrastructure, is attracting significant foreign investment. The recent launch of the "Green Finance Initiative" is aimed at channeling capital towards environmentally responsible projects, further solidifying Singapore's position as a leader in sustainable development.

Mr. Wong concluded his message with a call for national unity and a commitment to collaborative problem-solving. "The challenges we face are complex, and no single entity can overcome them alone," he said. "We must work together - government, businesses, and citizens - to embrace the Fire Horse year with optimism, resilience, and a shared commitment to building a brighter future for Singapore."

The message serves as a clear signal of the government's priorities for the year ahead: navigating global uncertainties through proactive investment in human capital, strengthening the social fabric, and positioning Singapore for long-term sustainable growth.