Singapore Marks 61st National Day with Focus on Resilience, Inclusion, Technology and Building for the Future
Singapore marked its 61st National Day on 9 August 2026 with celebrations at the National Stadium under the theme “Majulah Singapura, Go Beyond!”, as Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong outlined the country’s priorities in his National Day Message delivered on 8 August.
Source: Facebook/Lawrence Wong
Recorded at the National Stadium, the message addressed Singapore’s position amid a more uncertain global environment, including geopolitical tensions, higher trade barriers and disruptions to supply chains. Prime Minister Wong said Singapore’s economy had remained resilient, with robust growth in the first half of the year, continued job creation and opportunities arising from developments in artificial intelligence and the semiconductor sector.
He said Singapore would continue strengthening its economic competitiveness while investing in workers through skills and training. The Government would also adopt new technologies responsibly, including AI, while introducing stronger safeguards to protect children and young people from potential harms associated with excessive social media use.
Source: Facebook/Lawrence Wong
Supporting families was another priority highlighted in the message. Prime Minister Wong said the Government was undertaking a major review of family support, including the costs of raising children and access to affordable infant care and childcare. Further details were expected to be shared at the National Day Rally.
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed Singapore’s long-term approach to national development, including strengthening energy security, optimising land resources, investing in future infrastructure and maintaining strong connections with the international community. He stressed that openness remained essential for a small nation and would continue to support Singapore’s resilience and development.
The National Day celebrations also highlighted Singapore’s commitment to inclusion, with NDP 2026 featuring the country’s largest-ever contingent of persons with disabilities. President Tharman Shanmugaratnam joined Prime Minister Wong and other leaders at National Day events at the Istana and the Treasury.
As Singapore entered its 61st year of independence, the celebrations reaffirmed the importance of unity, resilience and shared responsibility. Under the theme “Majulah Singapura, Go Beyond!”, Singapore looked ahead to strengthening its foundations, embracing new opportunities and building a stronger future for generations to come.
Source: Facebook/Lawrence Wong
