PM Wong to announce details on support for families, costs of raising children at NDR
A major review on how families are supported in Singapore across various life stages is currently underway.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is set to reveal more specifics regarding government support for families and the financial implications of child-rearing during the National Day Rally on August 23. This announcement comes in response to concerns raised by parents and families who feel overwhelmed by the multiple responsibilities they face.
In his National Day message on August 8, Wong acknowledged that family life is under strain worldwide, citing rising expectations and the need to balance work, care for aging parents, and provide a strong foundation for children. The government is conducting a comprehensive review of support for families across various life stages, following the formation of an inter-ministry workgroup in April to address these issues.
The review will consider factors such as the costs of raising children, access to affordable infant care and childcare, and other measures to alleviate family burdens. Wong also emphasized the government's commitment to harnessing technology to improve lives while ensuring strong safeguards for children's digital well-being. He highlighted Singapore's economic resilience amidst a volatile global climate, which has resulted in higher energy prices, disrupted supply chains, and increased household and business costs.
Despite these challenges, Singapore's economy has remained robust, with stable labor markets and continued growth in the AI sector. Wong assured that Singapore will remain open to the world, recognizing that openness has been crucial to its success.
Written by urgent.news from Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written; read the original for the full account.
