SINGAPORE: In his National Day Message to the nation, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has called on Singaporeans to work together to transform the country and make it a special home for everyone.
He said in ten years' time, it would be a new Singapore with its own unique identity and a can-do and never-say-die spirit of the Lion City.
Mr Lee also brought good news about the economy in his televised message, recorded at the top floor of the new National Library Building.
Economic growth in the first half of this year was 7.6 percent, higher than expected, and for the whole year, growth forecast has been raised to between 7 and 8 percent.
Singapore is celebrating National Day in a happy mood with four good years of growth, said PM Lee.
There are many things to cheer about – Singapore's athletes are winning medals, students are excelling in international events and the country is gearing up for new and exciting projects like the Formula One Grand Prix and the integrated resorts.
On the economic side, 111,000 jobs have been added in the first half of the year and unemployment is very low at 2.4 percent.
Mr Lee said: "Singapore is growing not just because of more investments or more workers. Our people are adapting and working smarter. We are organising ourselves more efficiently and making better use of our resources.
"In short, we have increased our productivity. Our efforts to transform the economy are paying off."
Looking ahead, Mr Lee said Singapore is poised to take off, with many projects already underway.
Among them are the integrated resorts and the banking and financial centre.
The prime minister said: "From here, I can see dozens of cranes. It's a bit hazy today, but there is buzz and excitement in the air, as our city changes before our eyes, day by day.
"Even the NDP this year is different and exciting. For the first time, the parade will be held on water at Marina Bay. It will be on the largest floating stage in the world, with the new city skyline taking shape all around us."
While Singaporeans come together to help build the nation, Mr Lee said there is a major challenge which could affect the country's social harmony and national cohesion, and that is the widening of income gaps here and all over the world.
Mr Lee said while Singapore cannot stop or reverse this global trend, it can do a lot to help Singaporeans cope with it.
He said one reason for the widening income gap here is the ageing population, so the government is making changes to help Singaporeans work longer, earn more and build up their retirement savings.
It will enhance the value of HDB homes and improve the CPF system so they can enjoy a steady income and peace of mind in their golden years.
PM Lee said: "The government cannot solve all these problems alone. Everyone must play a part. We each must take responsibility for ourselves, make the effort to do well, and provide for our families and our old age.
"At the same time, the more successful Singaporeans must pitch in to help the weaker ones. The more you have gained from society, the greater your obligation to give back something to your fellow citizens."
Mr Lee said the government would tackle these issues one by one and Singaporeans have every reason to be confident about their future.
"The global backdrop is favourable. The winds and tides are with us. Our spirit is high, and our ship is ready," he added.
Mr Lee's call to the nation is to seize the moment to sail ahead into the bright and exciting future.
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CNA
