Singapore’s national agenda is driven by a forward-looking, ambitious vision that spans effective governance, economic dynamism, regional and global engagement, environmental sustainability, social well-being, and security. The city-state strives to be an inclusive and innovative nation, continually reinventing itself to meet future challenges. Below is an overview of what Singapore seeks to achieve across key domains, reflecting an upbeat spirit of ambition and progress.
Government and Policy Objectives
Singapore’s government focuses on long-term national development, social cohesion, and innovation-driven progress. Policy planning is marked by pragmatism and foresight – for example, urban plans like the Draft Master Plan guide land use 10–15 years ahead , ensuring a liveable and modern city for generations. The government never stops investing in infrastructure and is “making concerted efforts to become a City in Nature,” balancing development with greenery . Maintaining a clean, efficient government and multiracial harmony are core tenets; leaders emphasize that Singapore must remain open and diverse to thrive, as “unlike any other country, [we] cannot afford to close our doors” – survival and prosperity hinge on staying connected to the world and embracing diversity .
Another key objective is fostering social cohesion in a diverse society. Singapore prides itself on an inclusive national identity where people of all races and faiths live together in harmony. The approach has been described as a “We-first” nation, building a strong social compact while respecting diversity . In the words of its leaders, Singapore’s success in community cohesion “arises from the ability of our people to come together to collectively want to build a strong social compact, while still creating space for people who are different… in belief, practice and views” . Integration, not assimilation is the guiding principle – no culture is forced to conform to another, not even to the majority . Policies reinforce this harmony: from ethnic integration in public housing to laws like the Maintenance of Racial Harmony Act, the government actively guards multi-cultural equality. At the same time, policymaking is thoughtful and consultative to adapt to social norms without fracturing unity . This continual effort to strengthen the “rope” of racial-religious harmony ensures a cohesive society that is greater than the sum of its diverse parts.
Innovation is another pillar of Singapore’s governance objectives. The nation envisions itself as a Smart Nation and global innovation hub, harnessing technology and research to secure its future. The government sustains heavy investment in Research & Development – roughly 1% of GDP (S$25 billion) over 2021–2025 under the RIE2025 plan . This funding fuels scientific breakthroughs, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship to drive new growth sectors . From nationwide digital initiatives to public service innovation labs, Singapore’s policy objective is clear: become a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy that continually creates opportunities for its people. In essence, the government’s overarching goal is to build an exceptional nation – one that is cohesive, innovative, and prepared for the future, with a leadership ethos of continual improvement. As Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong affirmed, “we will never stop improving – not just for ourselves but also for future generations” .
Economic Goals
Singapore’s economic goals center on sustaining growth, competitiveness, and opportunity for its citizens in a rapidly evolving global landscape. As a small, open economy, Singapore adopts proactive growth strategies to stay relevant. It positions itself as a global business and technology hub, attracting investments and talent while promoting homegrown enterprise. The government works closely with industry through initiatives like Industry Transformation Maps to upgrade each sector with productivity and innovation. A core objective is to move up the value chain – advancing manufacturing, embracing digital finance, biotech, and other frontier technologies – to secure long-term prosperity. To enable this, Singapore pours resources into science and tech: it has pledged S$25 billion to research, innovation and enterprise from 2021–2025, underscoring that science & technology (S&T) “will be key to Singapore’s ability to meet future challenges and respond to shifts in the global economy” . This commitment, endorsed at the highest levels, has over decades turned Singapore into a world-class innovation ecosystem, with well-regarded universities and vibrant startup and enterprise activity . The aim is to continually create new engines of growth – whether in advanced manufacturing, the digital economy, or emerging green industries – ensuring Singapore stays at the forefront of economic progress.
Being a global trading nation is equally vital to Singapore’s economic strategy. The country has crafted an extensive network of free trade agreements and economic partnerships to expand its market reach. It is a member of major trade pacts like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the CPTPP, which together give Singapore preferential access to markets worldwide . This strategy of economic openness provides a buffer against protectionist trends and keeps Singapore plugged into international supply chains . Singapore consistently champions free trade and connectivity; as Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his successors have stressed, the nation “must not retreat into protectionism or isolationism” but instead seek “more cooperation, not less” globally . In practice, Singapore continues to sign new digital economy agreements and update existing trade deals to stay ahead. It also leverages its strategic location – investing in world-class port and airport infrastructure – to entrench its status as a global logistics and financial hub. Ultimately, Singapore’s economic goal is to remain an agile, high-growth economy that delivers good jobs and rising standards of living for its people.
A cornerstone of Singapore’s economic agenda is talent development and inclusion. In an era of rapid technological disruption, Singapore recognizes that its people are its most precious resource. The nation is therefore fostering a culture of lifelong learning and skill mastery to keep the workforce future-ready. “The skills journey begins in schools, but it does not end with schools,” DPM Wong noted, highlighting a shift toward continuous upskilling throughout life . Flagship programs like SkillsFuture (launched 2015) support Singaporeans in learning new skills at every age. The government is now strengthening SkillsFuture further – lowering costs and barriers to training, working with industries to ensure courses lead to real jobs, and urging businesses to hire based on skills, not just credentials . This enables workers to pivot into new careers and adapt as industries change. In short, Singapore aspires to become “a full-fledged Learning Society – from cradle to grave”, where everyone can continually reskill and “become a people ready for the future, equipped to succeed” . Such talent initiatives go hand-in-hand with attracting global expertise in key fields (through targeted work passes for tech and research talent) to complement the local workforce.
Inclusivity is another economic priority: ensuring growth benefits all segments of society. Singapore’s model emphasizes rewarding work and uplifting lower-income workers through schemes like the Progressive Wage Model and Workfare income supplements. The government is also taking steps to narrow wage gaps across professions – for instance, professionalizing skilled trades and assuring ITE/polytechnic graduates good career progression without needing a degree . By investing in human capital and keeping the economy open and innovative, Singapore’s ambition is to build a fair and thriving economy where opportunities abound and every citizen can progress through effort and skills. The motto might well be growth with equity – a resilient economy that not only competes globally, but also provides every Singaporean a stake in success.
Foreign Policy
Singapore’s foreign policy is driven by the pursuit of regional stability, robust partnerships, and an international order based on rules and cooperation. As a small state in Southeast Asia, Singapore places ASEAN at the center of its foreign relations. The nation firmly believes that a strong, cohesive ASEAN is vital for peace and prosperity in the region. In fact, “ASEAN remains central to Singapore’s foreign policy”, especially in today’s fragmented world . Singapore constantly works with its neighbors to keep ASEAN united and effective – recalling founding father S. Rajaratnam’s warning that “if we do not hang together, we will end up hanging separately” . This means proactively strengthening ASEAN institutions and fostering consensus among the ten member states to navigate geopolitical tensions. ASEAN’s integration has already come a long way (collectively the bloc is now the world’s 5th largest economy) but Singapore advocates that we cannot stop here . It is pushing for deeper ASEAN integration – aiming for 100% tariff elimination within the region, cutting red tape, concluding a region-wide digital economy framework, and developing initiatives like an ASEAN Power Grid to share green energy . Such efforts would boost intra-ASEAN trade, create jobs, and enhance collective resilience. Simply put, Singapore wants an ASEAN that is cohesive, proactive and “a vital and credible anchor” for Asia’s peace and prosperity . When Singapore next chairs ASEAN in 2027 (also ASEAN’s 60th anniversary), it has vowed to use that opportunity to deepen regional integration and uphold ASEAN’s relevance .
Beyond its immediate region, Singapore seeks to expand a global network of partnerships and uphold a stable international system. The nation subscribes to a principled, multilateral foreign policy. It champions international law and the idea that even small countries are safest when all nations (big or small) play by common rules . Singapore doesn’t shy from contributing on the world stage – often “playing a constructive role in multilateral forums… by building consensus and finding solutions” rather than grandstanding . For example, a Singaporean diplomat chaired the successful UN High Seas Treaty negotiations in 2023, showing Singapore’s ability to bridge divides . Whether it’s climate change, global health, or trade rules, Singapore actively works with like-minded countries to solve global challenges, reflecting its belief that many pressing issues “require more global cooperation, not less” . Crucially, Singapore has stepped up as a steward of the global commons – launching initiatives like the Friends of COVID-19 Vaccine Access and the Financing Asia’s Transition (FAST) Partnership to mobilize joint action on vaccines and climate finance . This proactive stance underscores an ambition to be a “responsible stakeholder” that helps shape a more stable and inclusive world order .
Singapore also maintains a delicate balance among major powers while diversifying its ties. It enjoys strong relations with the United States, China, India, the EU, Japan and others, but aligns with none – preferring to stay principled and pragmatic. In the face of US–China strategic rivalry, Singapore has made it clear it “will not be forced to choose sides”, and instead encourages engagement by all powers in the region . The country welcomes America’s stabilizing presence and China’s peaceful rise, hoping both will respect ASEAN and international norms. To hedge against uncertainties, Singapore is broadening its partnerships: deepening strategic ties with developed nations and reaching out to new regions. For instance, it has recently upgraded relations with countries like Australia, New Zealand, France, and the UK, and plans to open new diplomatic missions in Africa and Latin America in the coming years . The thinking is that in a multipolar world, “the more connected we are, the more resilient we will be” . Economically, Singapore is already plugged into frameworks spanning Asia-Pacific and Europe; now it is exploring ideas like linking the CPTPP trade pact with the EU to uphold global trade rules . Strategically, it is forging comprehensive partnerships in the Middle East (e.g. with UAE and Saudi Arabia) and beyond . All these moves exemplify Singapore’s drive to “strengthen our global network of partnerships” so it can better navigate uncertainty and thrive .
Ultimately, Singapore’s foreign policy vision is about maximizing its strategic autonomy and relevance. Despite being a small island, Singapore refuses to be a mere bystander in global affairs. Leaders stress that Singapore today is far more capable and connected than in 1965, and thus “must respond with agility and resolve, and actively shape our own destiny” . By staying united at home and nimble abroad, Singapore aims to punch above its weight – contributing to regional unity, forming bridges between East and West, and championing a world where cooperation triumphs over conflict. This proactive, optimistic diplomacy reflects Singapore’s confidence that it can remain an “honest broker” and vital node in the international community for decades to come.
Sustainability and Climate Action
Singapore has embraced an ambitious sustainability agenda to secure a green and climate-resilient future. The Singapore Green Plan 2030 charts concrete targets over the next 10 years, positioning the country to achieve its long-term goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 . Under the Green Plan, Singapore is transforming itself into a “City of Green Possibilities” through five pillars – City in Nature, Energy Reset, Sustainable Living, Green Economy, and Resilient Future . This whole-of-nation movement includes bold milestones: planting 1 million more trees, quadrupling solar energy deployment by 2025, reducing waste sent to landfill by 30% by 2030, and ensuring all newly registered cars are cleaner-energy models from 2030 . In the public sector, at least 20% of schools will be carbon-neutral by 2030 as a lead-by-example effort . These initiatives align with Singapore’s international climate pledges – the country will peak its emissions by 2030 and has formally committed to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 as part of its UN climate commitments . This is a remarkable pledge for a resource-constrained city-state and signals Singapore’s determination to do its part in the global fight against climate change. By 2050, Singapore envisions itself as a low-carbon nation with a thriving green economy and a healthy living environment for its people.
Reaching these goals entails a comprehensive transformation of Singapore’s energy, economy and urban landscape. Green innovation and technology are key. Singapore is investing in emerging low-carbon solutions – for example, it launched a national hydrogen strategy to tap hydrogen as a major decarbonisation fuel for power generation, industry, and even international air and sea transport . It is also exploring carbon capture, solar deployment (including floating solar farms on reservoirs), and importing clean energy from regional grids given its limited local renewable options. The government is leveraging market mechanisms like a gradually rising carbon tax (planned to reach S$50–80/tonne by 2030) to incentivize businesses to cut emissions . At the same time, Singapore focuses on climate resilience and sustainable urban planning. Massive projects are underway to bolster flood defenses and adapt to rising sea levels – including seawalls, polders, and a Coastal Protection Plan for the long term. Urban design is also shifting: the “City in Nature” initiative is weaving more greenery and biodiversity into the concrete jungle, from park connectors and rooftop gardens to restoring natural habitats . By increasing green cover and cooling the urban heat island, Singapore improves liveability even as it grows.
Crucially, Singapore frames climate action as both an environmental necessity and an economic opportunity. Under the Green Economy pillar, the country is positioning itself as a hub for sustainability solutions – developing green growth industries such as renewable energy, electric mobility, carbon trading and green finance. “Singapore is mobilising all of our capabilities to adapt to a changing climate, enable decarbonisation, and stimulate green growth opportunities amid Asia’s sustainability journey,” declares the Economic Development Board . In practice, this means supporting companies to innovate in sustainability (e.g. green building tech, agritech, waste-to-resource solutions) and attracting international cleantech firms to set up in Singapore. The city-state also aims to be a carbon services and green finance center, leveraging its finance sector to drive climate-aligned investments and carbon market development . Regionally, being in the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore serves as a springboard for green solutions to be deployed across emerging Asian markets . All these efforts underscore an upbeat philosophy: that “a carbon neutral world is within our reach” and Singapore can help lead the way by example . Businesses and the community are encouraged to play their part – whether through innovating new low-carbon solutions or adopting eco-friendly habits in daily life. By uniting government policy, industry innovation and public action, Singapore is forging a path towards a sustainable future, determined to turn climate challenges into opportunities and to build a greener, more resilient home for future generations.
Social Priorities
Social development has always been a cornerstone of what Singapore wants as a nation. The government’s social priorities focus on providing affordable housing, quality education, excellent healthcare, and an inclusive society where no one is left behind. Housing is often called the bedrock of Singapore’s social compact. Over 80% of Singaporeans live in subsidized HDB (Housing & Development Board) flats, and homeownership rates are among the highest in the world – instilling citizens with pride and stability. The government has pledged that affordable and accessible public housing will always remain a key pillar of the nation’s social compact . Housing demand is met through continuous development of new towns and renewal of old estates. In recent years, with housing affordability on everyone’s mind, Singapore has been “sparing no effort to ramp up the supply of BTO flats” (new public apartments) to meet young families’ needs . Rules were tightened to ensure flats go to those who need them most, and schemes introduced to help first-timer couples secure their homes quickly . These moves illustrate Singapore’s unwavering commitment that owning a decent home is an achievable dream for all citizens.
Another fundamental priority is education – nurturing every individual’s potential and maintaining social mobility. Singapore’s education system is renowned globally, but the country is actively refreshing it to reduce stress and broaden definitions of success. In the past decade, Singapore phased out overly rigid exam-based streaming in secondary schools and moved to full subject-based banding, recognizing that talents are diverse . National exams have been de-emphasized at early ages (for instance, the primary school T-score system was abolished) to encourage holistic development . The broader goal is to cultivate a love of learning and skills beyond grades. Increasingly, the focus is on 21st-century competencies – critical thinking, creativity, digital skills, and global awareness – to prepare youths for the future economy. Higher education and vocational paths are being expanded and equalized in prestige: polytechnic and skills-based routes now offer strong career prospects without needing a university degree . Most importantly, Singapore aims to make learning a lifelong pursuit for all its people. From literacy programs for seniors to professional courses for mid-career adults, the idea is that one’s education never truly ends. As DPM Lawrence Wong put it, while some countries seek a cradle-to-grave welfare state, “we will aspire to create in Singapore a full-fledged Learning Society – from cradle to grave”, where continuous learning keeps everyone productive and “ready for the future” . This inspiring vision underpins policies like SkillsFuture credits for every adult, subsidized training, and a general societal encouragement for individuals to keep improving themselves at every stage of life.
Healthcare is another top social priority, especially with Singapore’s population aging rapidly. The nation is rolling out new models of care to ensure healthy and fulfilling lives for all ages. A flagship initiative is Healthier SG, launched in 2023 as a preventive care strategy. Healthier SG shifts the emphasis from reacting to illness to proactively keeping people healthy – for example, each citizen will enroll with a family doctor for regular health plans, and community programs will support active lifestyles. This upstream approach is critical as by 2030, 1 in 4 Singaporeans will be elderly . The goal is to help seniors stay well and “age in place” – enjoying their golden years in their own homes and communities rather than in hospitals or nursing homes . To support this, Singapore is investing in elder-friendly infrastructure, such as building more Community Care Apartments (integrated senior housing with care services), expanding the network of Active Ageing Centres in housing estates, improving access to home-based care and rehabilitation, and working with volunteers to prevent senior isolation . Such measures enable most seniors to remain active and purposeful at home, “surrounded by family, friends, and familiar activities” instead of institutional settings . Of course, healthcare affordability is ensured through heavy subsidies, a compulsory health insurance scheme (MediShield Life), and a national medical savings system (Medisave). The government also continuously enhances financial support for the elderly poor – schemes like Silver Support supplement the incomes of low-income seniors, and CPF retirement accounts are periodically boosted with extra interest and matching contributions for those with less saved . The aim is that every Singaporean can meet their retirement and healthcare needs with dignity, through a mix of self and state support: “This is our promise to Singaporeans of every generation” .
Building a truly inclusive society is at the heart of Singapore’s social ambitions. Inclusivity means ensuring that the vulnerable and the “broad middle” alike have confidence for the future . Social safety nets have been strengthened in recent years, albeit in a uniquely Singaporean way that encourages resilience. For instance, lower-income workers are uplifted via wage support and training rather than long-term unemployment aid, to avoid welfare dependency. However, the government recognizes that disruptions will happen in a volatile economy, so it is planning new measures to support those who face setbacks like job loss . A proposed “re-employment scheme” will temporarily assist unemployed workers financially while they retrain and search for jobs . This targeted approach aims to reduce anxieties without eroding the work ethic. The overarching message to citizens is reassuring: in tough times, you will not be alone. “In this harsh, unpredictable world, we will have your back… and we will support you… so you can bounce back stronger,” DPM Wong declared in Parliament . Such words encapsulate Singapore’s social contract – that even as individuals strive and take responsibility, the community and government will rally to help those in need get back on their feet. In the same spirit, Singapore promotes community-based support: a “broader culture of philanthropy and volunteerism” where those who have more devote time and resources to help those with less . From mentoring youth-at-risk to charities for the disabled, Singaporeans are encouraged to contribute to social cohesion. The government also co-creates solutions with citizens through exercises like Forward Singapore, which recently engaged thousands of people to refresh the social compact for a more inclusive, fair and united society . All these efforts reflect a passionate commitment to leave no one behind – to ensure that every Singaporean, regardless of background, can share in the country’s progress and have a stake in its future.
Security and Defense
Singapore’s pursuit of security is driven by the fundamental belief that only a strong and prepared Singapore can safeguard its sovereignty and way of life. In terms of defense, the nation has built up one of the most advanced and capable militaries in the region relative to its size. The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is a modern, well-equipped force with Army, Navy and Air Force branches that continuously upgrade to keep a technological edge. Crucially, the SAF is underpinned by National Service (NS) – a mandatory conscription for young men that has been in place since 1967. NS imbues Singaporeans with a stake in national defense and provides the manpower to field a credible deterrent. Unlike some countries that scaled back conscription or cut defense spending after the Cold War, Singapore never wavered in its commitment. As PM Lawrence Wong noted, Singapore “consistently invested” in defense over the decades, recognizing early that a small nation must make potential aggressors “think twice before attacking us” . This steadfast investment has produced a “strong and effective SAF”, and also a robust Home Team (police, civil defence, etc.) to protect the homeland . Singapore’s leaders frequently remind citizens that deterrence is essential because “if we are ever threatened, no one will come to our rescue… We can only depend on ourselves” . This ethos of self-reliance has become ingrained in the national psyche. It translates into maintaining defense spending around 3–4% of GDP, acquiring cutting-edge platforms (from F-35 jets to submarines), and rigorous training exercises at home and overseas. The result is a military that punches above its weight and a country that consistently ranks as one of the safest in the world. Singapore’s commitment to security has yielded peace through strength – deterring external threats and giving its people the confidence that their nation is well-guarded.
Security for Singapore is a total, all-encompassing effort that goes beyond the military realm. The concept of Total Defence encapsulates this: every citizen and every sector of society plays a part in keeping the nation strong and secure. Since 1984, Total Defence has been taught as a framework of different pillars – Military, Civil, Economic, Social, and Psychological Defense – covering both traditional and non-traditional security threats . In 2019, Singapore added Digital Defence as the sixth pillar of Total Defence, recognizing the rising threats in the cyber and information domain . This means Singapore now officially regards being “secure, alert and responsible online” as equally important to national security as soldiering or civil emergency response . The government calls on individuals to practice good cyber hygiene, be vigilant against fake news and hostile information campaigns, and unite against anyone seeking to sow discord through digital means . Cybersecurity has been heavily bolstered: the Cyber Security Agency (CSA) coordinates nationwide efforts to defend networks and critical infrastructure from cyber attacks. Singapore’s Cybersecurity Strategy 2021 outlines an active, multipronged approach – to “actively defend our cyberspace, simplify cybersecurity for end-users, and promote international cyber norms”, all supported by developing a vibrant cyber ecosystem and talent pipeline . In practice, this involves building resilient systems, conducting regular cyber exercises, tightening laws against cybercrime, and training more cybersecurity professionals . Given the country’s high connectedness, ensuring digital resilience is a paramount security goal.
On the homeland security front, Singapore’s Home Team agencies (police, immigration, civil defence, narcotics bureau, etc.) work round the clock to keep the populace safe. The nation has a zero-tolerance stance on issues like terrorism, drugs, and serious crime. Laws are strict and enforcement efficient, resulting in low crime rates and high public trust. Citizens are also encouraged to stay prepared – for example, through emergency preparedness drills and the SGSecure movement (a community response program to terror threats). This reflects the Civil Defence pillar of Total Defence, which emphasizes that during any crisis (be it a natural disaster or a pandemic), Singaporeans should “pitch in to help” one another and be able to cope until professional help arrives . Community cohesion (the Social Defence pillar) is likewise seen as part of security – the idea that a united people, who trust each other across racial and religious lines, are less vulnerable to subversion or unrest . Thus, security in Singapore is holistic: it’s about military strength, civil preparedness, economic resilience, social unity, psychological fortitude, and cyber vigilance all at once .
Overall, Singapore wants to remain one of the safest and most secure countries, so that Singaporeans can live, work and prosper with peace of mind. Whether it’s guarding against external aggression or new-age threats like cyber warfare and misinformation, the nation is constantly updating its defenses. It invests in modern weaponry and educates its people to be savvy digital citizens. It hardens critical infrastructure and nurtures a strong communal spirit to weather crises. Singapore’s security doctrine is ultimately about empowerment and resilience: every Singaporean, from NSmen to ordinary citizens, forms a united front to protect the nation. This collective resolve – “the will and resolve to defend Singapore,” as Total Defence calls it – is the intangible strength that underpins all of Singapore’s ambitions. It ensures that the Singapore story, carefully built over decades, will continue to be written in peace and stability.
Major Policies and Goals by Sector
To summarize Singapore’s ambitions across these domains, the table below highlights some major policies or goals in each sector:
| Domain | Key Policies/Goals |
| Government & Policy | National Development: Long-term urban planning (e.g. Master Plans) for a modern “City in Nature”; prudent fiscal management for future generations . Social Cohesion: “We-first” nation approach – policies for racial/religious harmony (e.g. Ethnic Integration Policy in housing, Maintenance of Racial Harmony Act) ; encourage ground-up community initiatives and collective responsibility . Innovation: Smart Nation initiative (nationwide digitalization and e-government); RIE2025 plan investing S$25B (1% GDP) in R&D to drive an innovation economy . |
| Economic | Growth Strategies: Position as global trade & finance hub – extensive FTA network (CPTPP, RCEP, etc.) ; Industry Transformation Maps to upgrade sectors; support for startups and advanced manufacturing. Technology & Digital: Develop fintech, AI, biotech and other frontier sectors; Digital Economy Agreements with various countries. Talent Development: SkillsFuture movement for lifelong learning ; upgrading workers’ skills and productivity; welcome high-skilled global talent to complement local workforce. Trade & Investment: Pro-business environment to attract FDI; infrastructure investments (Tuas Mega Port, Changi T5) to enhance connectivity. |
| Foreign Policy | Regional: Uphold ASEAN centrality and unity ; deepen ASEAN integration (tariff elimination, ASEAN Digital Economy Framework, ASEAN Power Grid) . Lead and mediate in regional issues (e.g. South China Sea, Myanmar peace efforts) through ASEAN forums. Global: Active multilateralism – support UN, WTO, and international law . Contribute to global commons (climate, health, cybersecurity) by building coalitions and participating in treaties . Diplomatic Partnerships: Strengthen strategic ties with major powers (US, China, India, EU) while remaining non-aligned; expand links with new regions (Middle East, Africa, Latin America) by opening missions and pursuing trade/cultural exchanges . ASEAN & Beyond: When chairing ASEAN (2027), aim to make it a credible anchor for regional peace ; promote initiatives like the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific for inclusive cooperation . |
| Sustainability | Climate Targets: Net Zero emissions by 2050 commitment ; peak emissions by 2030 (~60 MtCO₂e) . Green Plan 2030: Whole-of-nation agenda with goals such as 1M more trees, 4× solar capacity by 2025, 30% less landfill waste by 2030, all new car registrations cleaner-energy by 2030 . Green Economy: Develop sustainability as a growth sector – e.g. become a carbon services hub, green finance center, and regional clean energy trading hub . Encourage green jobs and enterprises (renewables, EVs, agritech, circular economy). Urban Sustainability: “City in Nature” initiative to integrate nature into urban areas; large-scale coastal protection and drainage upgrades for climate adaptation; promote energy-efficient buildings and public transport electrification. |
| Social | Housing: Affordable public housing for majority – ongoing BTO supply ramp-up and schemes for first-timers ; rejuvenation of older estates (HIP, SERS programs) to keep housing quality high. Education: Evolving a student-centric system – reducing exam stress (no primary school exams for young grades, removed secondary streaming) ; multiple education pathways (academic and vocational) with strong employment outcomes; emphasis on values and character education alongside academics. Healthcare: “Healthier SG” preventive care model ; expanding healthcare infrastructure (new polyclinics, hospitals) and aged care facilities; MediShield Life universal insurance and heavy health subsidies to ensure care is affordable. Inclusivity & Support: Progressive Wage Model and Workfare boost incomes of low-wage workers; Silver Support and CPF enhancements for the elderly ; support for families (Baby Bonus, increased paternity leave, preschool subsidies) to encourage marriage and parenthood; ComCare and various grants to assist lower-income households. The new social compact emphasizes mutual responsibility – government, community and individuals partnering to uplift everyone . |
| Security & Defense | Defense Modernization: Maintain a strong SAF with cutting-edge capabilities (e.g. F-35 fighter jets on order, new submarines, upgraded Army hardware); leverage technology (drones, cyber defense) for “Next-Generation SAF”. Continued investment ~3% GDP in defense, with full support for NS and volunteer forces . Total Defence: 6 pillars – Military, Civil, Economic, Social, Digital, Psychological – guide a comprehensive security strategy . Public education on emergency preparedness (SGSecure for terror response, annual Total Defence Day). Cybersecurity: National Cybersecurity Strategy (updated 2021) to “build resilient infrastructure” and “enable a safer cyberspace” ; Critical Information Infrastructure protection regime; Cyber Emergency Response Teams. CSA leads inter-agency efforts, including developing local cyber talent . Public Safety & Law Enforcement: Strict anti-crime and anti-drug laws (Singapore remains one of the world’s safest cities); community policing and surveillance (e.g. Police cameras, neighbourhood watch groups) to deter crime. Strong border security (tech-enabled immigration checkpoints) to combat smuggling and trafficking. Overall, a reputation for low crime, high safety, and swift justice reinforces public confidence in security. |
Each of these domains reinforces the others – together forming Singapore’s holistic vision of a thriving, secure, and sustainable nation. The tone from the leadership is optimistic and forward-looking: Singapore will continue to adapt, innovate and unite as one people to overcome challenges and seize new opportunities. From pioneering digital government services to planting trees in every neighborhood, from negotiating trade deals to rallying citizens for Total Defence, Singapore demonstrates an unwavering resolve to build a better country. The journey is ongoing (“a work-in-progress… we will never stop improving” ), but the trajectory is clear. In its first 60 years of independence, Singapore transformed from third world to first; now it is charging ahead with ambition – to be a world-class city-state that is economically vibrant, socially cohesive, environmentally sustainable, and exceptionally safe. In essence, what Singapore wants is to keep flourishing against the odds – and its comprehensive strategies across government, economy, foreign relations, sustainability, society, and security are all geared towards that inspiring mission.