In his final address before stepping down from leadership in two weeks, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong underscored the significance of unity among the nation’s multi-faith, multi-national populace. Emphasizing the diverse ethnic roots and religious affiliations of Singaporeans, Lee’s speech at a May Day Rally on Wednesday resonated with the island state’s ethos of inclusivity amidst socio-economic and ideological complexities.
During his address, Lee articulated the enduring importance of social cohesion, transcending traditional divides of race, language, and religion. He urged Singaporeans to embrace their diverse heritage, citing the ethnic ties with India and China, as well as religious connections within the global Muslim Ummah. However, Lee also cautioned against potential sources of division, including socio-economic disparities and tensions between Singaporean-born and naturalized citizens.
As he prepared to pass the baton to Deputy Lawrence Wong on May 15, Lee stressed the imperative of safeguarding racial and religious harmony amidst evolving societal dynamics. He highlighted Singapore’s governance model built on trust and lauded the People’s Action Party (PAP) government’s track record of delivering results for its citizens, reaffirming the party’s electoral victories as a testament to its credibility.
Reflecting on his two-decade tenure, Lee expressed contentment with Singapore’s progress and attributed it to the collective efforts of its people. Marking his 40th year in politics, Lee reiterated the importance of continuity in governance, urging future leaders to uphold the legacy established by former Prime Ministers Lee Kuan Yew and Goh Chok Tong.
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