2024 New Year Message by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong reflects on the challenges of 2023 and outlines Singapore’s path forward in his New Year Message for 2024.

In his New Year Message for 2024, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong reflected on the challenges faced by Singapore in 2023. The international environment remained turbulent, with underlying tensions despite the stabilizing meeting between US President Biden and PRC President Xi Jinping.

*Singapore delivered humanitarian aid to Cairo, Egypt in November to support the relief efforts in Gaza.*

In Singapore, the diverse population expressed solidarity with those affected, particularly Muslim Singaporeans who felt the impact keenly. PM Lee emphasized the importance of approaching divisive issues with tolerance and respect, highlighting the nation’s commitment to racial and religious harmony.

2023 marked the centenary year of LKY100, prompting reflection on Singapore’s enduring values. The Presidential Election, won decisively by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, signaled progress towards national unity, irrespective of race, language, or religion.

*Visited the LKY100 exhibition at Art Porters gallery in Tanjong Pagar in September.*

*President Tharman Shanmugaratnam being sworn in as Singapore’s ninth President.*

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Singapore emerged from DORSCON Green in February, thanks to the efforts of healthcare workers and the collective contributions of the community. Economic growth of 1.2% was achieved, avoiding a recession, although households still felt the pressure of a higher cost of living.

*Jurong Bird Park closed on 3 January 2023 and moved to a brand new home in Bird Paradise at Mandai Wildlife Reserve, which officially opened on 15 November 2023.*

*The government is helping Singaporeans cushion the impact of rising costs, and will continue doing so.*

Looking ahead to 2024, PM Lee acknowledged the less favorable external environment, including geopolitical uncertainties and the impact of climate change. Despite these challenges, he expressed hope in rapid technological progress, particularly in artificial intelligence and robotics, promising support for businesses and upskilling initiatives for Singaporeans.

*Our City in Nature at the Singapore Botanic Gardens.*

*Exercise Northstar 2023 at Jurong Island.*

PM Lee emphasized the government’s commitment to uplifting lower-income families, providing affordable housing, and enhancing healthcare for the aging population. He acknowledged the leadership transition, with Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong set to take over as Prime Minister, urging unity and support for the incoming leadership team.

*At HealthierSG roadshow at Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park in July.*

*With DPM Lawrence Wong at Chingay 2023.*

In conclusion, PM Lee called on all Singaporeans to face 2024 with confidence, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration to build a vibrant, inclusive, fair, competitive, resilient, and united nation.