“We rejoice that the PAP enjoys strong support of our fellow citizens, but we must never become complacent. We must deliver on our promises. Make sure that Singapore continues to succeed and to never take the people’s mandate for granted.
Every election is different. In every GE, we must fight afresh to win the people’s trust and mandate again. A new election, a new electorate, a new PAP team. The next General Election is due by 2021. GE 2021 will not be like GE 2015 because the world is entering into a very uncertain phase, and the next four years will bring many changes and surprises. We have to prepare ourselves and work hard to keep Singapore progressing and to keep improving Singaporean’s lives.
What must we do to prepare ourselves for GE 2021? Let me say three things. First, we must understand the big changes which are going on in the world. Second, we must improve the lives of Singaporeans. Third, we must keep the PAP strong, so that it can unite Singapore and take Singapore forward.”
(image from PAP’s twitter)
Understand the world
“Now, the developed countries are turning inwards, adopting a more protectionist, a more nativist approach…. It looks like the trend now. I do not know how far it will go, but I do not like the direction the trend is going. Because if more countries turn this way, the world will change, and it is going to change for the worse. The impact will not only be on economics and trade, but also the security, stability, peace and international order.
This will have major consequences, especially for small and open countries like Singapore. ”
Improve Lives
“(G)iven the significant difficulties ahead, we have to strive even harder. First, we must equip Singaporeans with the skills to look after themselves.
…At the same time, we are strengthening social safety nets.
…But remember, Singapore will only be a home if Singaporeans choose to make it our home.”
Keep the PAP Strong
“(F)or Singapore to be united, one home, one people, the PAP must be a strong, national party. ”
“Firstly, the PAP must be close to all segments of society.
…Secondly, we must not forget – we must serve the people because that is our duty.
…Thirdly, the party must also provide strong leadership for Singapore.”
“I will give you one example, someone who has had a tougher fight than most. Comrade Sitoh Yee Pin and his team from Potong Pasir. Potong Pasir fell to the opposition in 1984 – it was the year I came into politics. Our comrades in Potong Pasir fought many unsuccessful elections, to try and win it back, but failed. They kept on trying; they soldiered on. Sitoh himself contested and lost twice. During GE 2011, I asked Sitoh: “What do you want to do?” He said, “I want to stay on and fight here.”
He stood, he fought a third time, and this time he won narrowly by 114 votes. I think he counted everyone of them. Sitoh and his team covered the ground thoroughly, they were determined to make sure that there would not be another narrow outcome again. Last year, GE 2015 Sitoh retained the seat, this time no anxiety at all.
…We all must have this Potong Pasir Spirit. Especially important at this time, in the world, the way it is, because we are entering such an uncertain period. We have to work harder to earn our living, to keep Singaporeans united, and to take Singapore forward.
We are here today because Singaporeans have given us their trust. Never take that trust for granted. Never be complacent or arrogant. Never forget your duty or your ideals. Stand together shoulder to shoulder.
With you, for you, for Singapore. ”
Watch the speech at: https://www.facebook.com/pap.sg/videos/1425533614124701/
Read the transcripts of Mr Lee’s English and Mandarin speeches.