Singapore swipes right as FirstDate app courts civil servants to tackle record‑low marriage rates

Singapore has launched a dating platform for public officials to address the city-state's declining marriage and fertility rates, according to a report on October 1. The algorithm-powered pilot initiative, named FirstDate, targets employees aged 21 to 35 and aims to provide "thoughtful connections" rather than the "swipe fatigue" often associated with dating apps.

Public officials can share their interests, habits, religious preferences, and dealbreakers on the platform, which guarantees absolute privacy. Only matches can see each other's profiles, and users decide whether their contact details are shared. Users are also encouraged to provide feedback on their dates via a star rating and optional feedback box.

The applications for the pilot program close on Monday. Singapore, with a population of over six million, witnessed record-low fertility rates and declining marriage rates in 2025. To counteract these trends, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced a family-friendly package, including financial incentives, last August. In August 2024, Japan became a super-aged society when at least 21% of its population was aged 65 and above.

An AI-powered dating app launched by the Tokyo government that year reportedly led to 265 marriages.