Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong reflects on 20 years of leadership and emphasizes the enduring significance of the Chinese community in Singapore at the SFCCA-SCCCI Appreciation Dinner on June 12, 2024.
On June 12, 2024, Senior Minister (SM) Lee Hsien Loong attended the SFCCA-SCCCI Appreciation Dinner, where he delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on his 20 years of leadership and the pivotal role of the Chinese community in Singapore’s development.
SM Lee expressed his gratitude to the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCCI) and the Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations (SFCCA) for organizing the event. He also thanked Mr. Thomas Chua and Mr. Kho Choon Keng for their speeches and well-wishes, and the Singapore Chinese Orchestra for their performance.
Recalling a similar dinner organized by the SCCCI and SFCCA two decades ago when he first became Prime Minister, SM Lee noted the significant changes over the years. He acknowledged the contributions of past and present Chinese community leaders who have continued to support national affairs and the Chinese community.
Throughout his tenure, SM Lee maintained close contact with the Chinese community, facing numerous challenges together. He emphasized the importance of the Chinese Community Liaison Group in fostering mutual understanding and trust between the government and the Chinese community. This collaboration was particularly crucial during the Global Financial Crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, where the Chinese community prioritized national interests and worked hand-in-hand with the government to overcome challenges.
SM Lee highlighted the deep historical roots of Chinese community organizations in Singapore, underscoring their significant role in the nation’s progress from third world to first. He praised the SCCCI for its efforts in helping local businesses adapt to emerging industries, transform their operations, and expand globally. He assured ongoing government support for new SMEs to achieve breakthroughs and grow stronger.
SM Lee also spoke on the dynamic nature of the Chinese community, noting the importance of integrating new immigrants and helping them embrace Singapore’s way of life. He emphasized that this integration contributes to the development of a unique Singaporean Chinese identity, which is critical for social cohesion.
He highlighted Singapore’s distinctive multicultural society, where despite having a Chinese majority, the culture is built on the foundations of multiculturalism. SM Lee stressed that Singaporeans, regardless of their ethnic roots, should put Singapore’s interests first.
Reflecting on the cultural contributions of the Chinese community, SM Lee praised the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (SCCC) for its role in promoting local Chinese culture. He also acknowledged the efforts of SFCCA, clan associations, and the Chinese media in fostering cultural development and engaging the younger generation.
In response to Mr. Kho’s use of song lyrics to express the sentiments of the Chinese business community, SM Lee reassured the audience of his ongoing support. He encouraged the community to stay united and confident, highlighting that brighter days lie ahead.
SM Lee concluded by expressing his gratitude for the good wishes and warm regards. He called on the Chinese community to support Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and his team in building a better Singapore together.
Source – PMO
