Singaporeans prioritize national interest over self, recent PAP survey discloses

SINGAPORE: The People’s Action Party’s Policy Forum (PPF) recently unveiled a survey emphasizing that a majority of Singaporeans prioritize national unity and the importance of national interests over sectional or self-interests.

The PPF, a platform designed to deepen understanding of policies and the policymaking process, and foster robust engagement with government leaders, found that while older Singaporeans remained staunch in their belief of upholding these values, the younger generation appeared less confident.

Notably, nearly 9 out of 10 respondents emphasized the significance of Singaporeans’ ability to face challenges and adapt for a brighter future.

This sentiment resonated most robustly among business owners and entrepreneurs, standing in stark contrast to students and the employed demographic.

These insights come as a prelude to the launch of the PPF | Insights dialogue series on 26 August 2023.

This inaugural event, titled “Tripartism: Past, Present and Future”, also doubles as a tribute to the centenary of Singapore’s founding Prime Minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew. The series, marking the PPF’s ongoing commitment to driving change and championing forward-thinking policies for Singapore, is headlined by luminaries such as past and current PAP Chairmen – Mr Lim Boon Heng and Mr Khaw Boon Wan, and Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, Mr Heng Swee Keat.

For this online survey, conducted between 28 July to 6 August 2023, approximately 1,500 valid responses were collected.

Drawing inspiration from speeches by Mr Lee spanning 1955 to 2012, the questions aimed to reflect themes he often revisited.

Respondents were introduced to select quotes before formulating their answers. Any potential bias by sex, age, or race was appropriately weighted during data analysis.

Josephine Teo, a prominent member of PAP’s Central Executive Committee and the Minister for Information and Communication, shared her thoughts on the findings: “In the light of this year’s National Day Celebrations emphasis on moving ‘Onward As One’, it is heartening to witness the resounding belief in national unity among Singaporeans. As we navigate an ever-evolving global landscape, Singapore’s unity stands out as our most formidable strength.”

Comprehensive survey results and dialogue highlights will soon be accessible on the Party’s website and its social media channels.