Making Singapore the Home we all cherish: Workers’ Party reaffirms commitment to Singapore’s progress on 58th National Day

SINGAPORE: As Singapore prepares to celebrate its 58th National Day on Wednesday (9 Aug), Pritam Singh, Secretary General of the Workers’ Party and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, has reaffirmed the party’s unwavering commitment to advocating for pragmatic proposals that will bring positive outcomes for the nation.

“Outside of Parliament, we will continue to advocate for a fairer, more just, and kinder society, one that makes us proud to be Singaporeans, regardless of race, language or religion.”

Mr Singh reflected on the enduring significance of the iconic song “Home,” emphasizing the necessity for a renewed period of introspection and a thorough reevaluation of policies to pave the way for a more promising future for Singapore.

The resonating anthem “Home,” penned by Dick Lee and brought to life by Kit Chan, has stood the test of time for over two decades, capturing the essence of Singaporeans’ deep connection to their homeland.

In his National Day Message 2023, Pritam Singh fondly recalled the significance of this song, particularly its ability to evoke emotions and draw citizens together.

“Presently, our nation is experiencing a phase of deep introspection, driven partly by recent controversies. The lyrics of “Home” provide some comfort that, in times of trouble, our country will find a way to start anew and overcome these challenges.”

“Just like how the remake of “Home” comes at a time when Singapore and the world at large are at a different juncture from a quarter-century ago, our national policies also need to be re-examined to make them relevant to today’s Singapore.”

Commitment to enhancing lives and representing citizens’ interests

Mr Singh emphasised that making Singapore the home we all cherish requires a revitalised focus on improving the lives and livelihoods of Singaporeans.

To this end, the Workers’ Party remains dedicated to contributing to this cause as a logical, accountable, and esteemed political entity representing the interests of Singaporeans within the parliamentary arena, Mr Singh said.

Mr Singh underscored that the party has presented numerous proposals in our electoral manifestos and during parliamentary sessions, and it is gratifying to observe advancements in both parliamentary deliberations and governmental policies.

For instance, in February this year, WP MPs advocated for augmented allowances for full-time National Servicemen, considering inflationary pressures and rising living costs.

In May, it was announced that all National Servicemen will receive allowance increases of up to $200.

“WP’s Manifesto argued that employers hiring foreign professionals should be required to engage independent consultants to conduct educational credential assessments. This will be implemented for Employment Pass applicants from 1 September 2023.”

“It is a step towards better protection of Singaporeans’ jobs and making the hiring process fairer for all.”

WP also proposed wider public housing options to cater to the increasingly diverse needs of singles and residents who prefer to rent.

“We note that the Government has said it will be studying more equitable housing options for singles, which includes rental.”

Mr Singh added that WP advocated for the introduction of anti-discrimination legislation to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, gender, age, disability and against Singapore citizens.

“We look forward to the workplace fairness legislation that the Government intends to table in Parliament in 2024, which will be a step in the right direction towards addressing employment discrimination.”

Most recently, WP also spoke about the less tangible issues but which are nonetheless central to us as Singaporeans, such as Sports, proposing, amongst other things, lifelong and robust medical care for all our athletes, able-bodied or disabled.

“I wish all Singaporeans, both at home and overseas, a very Happy 58th National Day,” Pritam Singh concluded in his message.