Prime Minister Lawrence Wong: Higher salaries are not about me or the PAP government

Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong addressed the recent decision to increase political salaries, marking the first raise in 15 years. Wong and Coordinating Minister for Public Services Chan Chun Sing explained the rationale behind the decision, stating that it is a responsible move to attract top talent to serve the country.

Wong himself will receive a S$1.4 million increase in his salary, totaling S$3.6 million, which he plans to donate to charity over the next five years if he remains in office. He thanked the MPs for their debate and suggestions, emphasizing that while there were differing views on the formula for ministerial salaries, there was broad agreement on updating MPs' allowances for inflation and raising ministerial salaries initially to up to S$1.2 million, with subsequent performance-based increases to around S$1.35 million by the end of the term.

Wong stressed that the agreement between MPs demonstrates the need for a salary framework in Singapore, upholding the spirit of public service. He reiterated that Singapore does not use higher pay as an incentive to attract people into politics, but rather ensures that those who serve have a heart to serve and are not burdened financially with successful careers outside government.

Wong expressed confidence in the political system, noting that whoever governs Singapore will face the same challenge of assembling a strong team to lead the country, a responsibility that will continue for generations to come.