NDR 2026: Singapore can make more room for dialects while promoting Mandarin, says PM Wong

In a rapidly changing world where trust is scarce, Singapore stands out as a nation where commitments are upheld. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized this point during his National Day Rally speech on August 23. In his speech, Mr Wong highlighted the heightened risk of conflicts escalating due to growing tensions in international trade, power shifts among great powers, and the emergence of new technologies.

He noted that today's world is more contested, unstable, and dangerous than ever before. Singapore cannot respond by withdrawing or isolating itself, Wong stated. Instead, the country must continue to connect with the world, create value, and build deeper relationships to stay relevant and generate opportunities for its citizens.

Singapore, being a major hub for business and finance, plays a crucial role in global supply chains by bringing markets, capital, talent, and ideas together. All of these strengths depend on one fundamental factor: trust. Countries, businesses, and investors trust Singapore because the rule of law prevails, institutions are strong, and contracts and commitments are honored, Wong emphasized.

Singapore will continue to build on this trust and deepen its connections with the world. At the National Day Rally, Wong addressed the increasing tensions and shifting power dynamics in the region. He discussed how the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global trade and how the Russia-Ukraine war demonstrated the dangers of relying too heavily on a single supplier.

Wong pointed out that while these conflicts may seem distant, they can quickly escalate due to various factors. These include alliances, interests, and the risks posed by new technologies like cheap drones. Additionally, countries are employing economic coercion, foreign interference, disinformation campaigns, and cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, collectively referred to as grey-zone tactics.

These tactics can cause real damage without direct military intervention. Wong cited the example of US tariffs, which were reimposed due to the alleged use of forced labor. Singapore, along with other countries, faces the challenge of enforcing domestic measures to prevent the import of goods produced with forced labor. Despite these challenges, Singapore remains committed to strengthening unity within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) when it assumes the chairmanship next year.

However, the Prime Minister stressed that Singapore cannot rely on others for protection during crises. "We must be able to stand on our own and take care of our own," Wong stated. He noted that Singapore has already shown resilience by swiftly assisting its citizens, securing essential supplies, and providing support to workers, households, and businesses during the Middle East crisis.

Looking ahead, Wong urged Singapore to prepare for deeper changes by strengthening its defenses and partnerships.