PM Lawrence Wong emphasizes family policies, senior care, and social partnerships at the PCF Family Day on October 6, 2024.

Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong delivered a speech at the PCF Family Day 2024, held at Downtown East, focusing on Singapore’s family support systems, senior care, and the role of social organizations in creating a united society.

Addressing the audience, which included Members of Parliament, PCF staff, and families, PM Wong began by extending well-wishes to children and families for Children’s Day and Family Day. He praised the young performers and organizers for their contributions to the event.

Highlighting his longstanding association with the People’s Action Party Community Foundation (PCF), PM Wong recounted his journey from being a PAP kindergarten student in Marine Parade in the 1970s to his current role as Prime Minister, emphasizing his continued support for PCF’s work in family and social development.

PM Wong reiterated that families form the bedrock of Singaporean society and that the government is dedicated to fostering a family-friendly environment. He referenced policies discussed in the National Day Rally, including increased subsidies for preschool education, housing support for young parents, expanded parental leave, and additional support for families with three or more young children. However, he emphasized that government policies alone are not sufficient; the broader community, including charity and social service organizations like PCF, must also play a pivotal role.

As the largest preschool operator in Singapore, PCF is dedicated to providing quality and affordable preschool education, ensuring every child in Singapore, regardless of background, has a good start in life. PM Wong also noted PCF’s growing involvement in senior care to meet the evolving needs of Singapore’s ageing population. The organization currently operates nine Senior Care Centres and four Active Ageing Centres, with plans for expansion.

PM Wong also addressed the importance of living not just longer lives but healthier lives, advocating for good diet, regular exercise, and strong social connections. He mentioned the government’s nationwide programmes, Healthier SG and Age Well SG, which aim to support active and healthy living among Singaporeans. He commended PCF for expanding its services into senior care and expressed hope that these services will benefit citizens from their early years to their later stages of life.

The PCF Family Day also serves as an occasion for community fundraising. This year’s event, led by the South West District and Mayor Low Yen Ling, successfully raised over $600,000 for various charities. PM Wong lauded this effort, emphasizing the importance of fellowship and partnership to take Singapore forward in a new phase of nation-building.

In closing, PM Wong stressed that while Singapore faces challenges in its journey ahead, the spirit of unity and support for families will remain fundamental. He encouraged the audience to work together to create a brighter future for all Singaporean families.

Source – PMO