Forward Singapore: The Country’s Plans for Economic Growth and Development
Welcome to an article about Forward Singapore, a national initiative to engage Singaporeans on adapting to changing times and strengthening the country’s social compact. Forward Singapore is a 4G leadership-led initiative that aims to empower, equip, care, build, steward, and unite Singaporeans through six pillars of engagement.
The initiative is based on the feedback and suggestions from over 200,000 Singaporeans who participated in the Forward Singapore engagement exercise. The Forward Singapore Report outlines seven key shifts to create a vibrant, fair, and resilient society for the road ahead. The report seeks to review and update Singapore’s social compact and set out a roadmap for the next decade and beyond.
Forward Singapore is a major undertaking of the 4G team, and they are committed to listening to and partnering with Singaporeans. The initiative seeks to engage all segments of society to discuss the challenges, constraints, as well as opportunities that Singapore faces as we tackle climate change, the trade-offs that Singapore has to balance, and our priorities moving forward.
Key Takeaways
- Forward Singapore is a national initiative to engage Singaporeans on adapting to changing times and strengthening the country’s social compact.
- The initiative aims to empower, equip, care, build, steward, and unite Singaporeans through six pillars of engagement.
- The Forward Singapore Report outlines seven key shifts to create a vibrant, fair, and resilient society for the road ahead.
Building a Resilient and Inclusive Society
To build a resilient and inclusive society, Forward Singapore has identified several key areas of focus. These include fostering social solidarity and mobility, ensuring access to basic needs for all, and supporting families and seniors.
Fostering Social Solidarity and Mobility
A resilient society is one where everyone has a fair opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. This means that we all have a responsibility to help each other, and to ensure that everyone’s values and aspirations are respected.
Forward Singapore recognises that there are trade-offs involved in achieving social mobility. For example, we need to ensure that our ageing population has access to healthcare and retirement support, while also creating jobs and opportunities for younger generations. However, by working together and building consensus, we can create a society that is fair and fulfilling for all.
Ensuring Access to Basic Needs for All
Access to basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare is essential for a resilient and inclusive society. Forward Singapore believes that everyone should have access to these basic needs, regardless of their income or background.
To achieve this, we need to support lower-income families and address wage gaps through fair employment practices and the progressive wage model. We also need to ensure that everyone has access to public housing and workfare, and that transfers are available for those who need them.
Supporting Families and Seniors
Families and seniors are valued members of our society, and we need to ensure that they are supported and included. Forward Singapore recognises that active ageing is important for both seniors and society as a whole, and we need to create opportunities for seniors to contribute and participate.
To support families, we need to ensure that pre-school education is accessible and affordable, and that parents have access to support and resources. We also need to ensure that seniors have access to healthcare and retirement support, and that they are able to live independently and with dignity.
By working together and taking collective responsibility, we can build a resilient and inclusive society that values everyone and ensures access to basic needs for all.
Charting the Path for a Sustainable and United Future
Singapore has charted a clear path towards a sustainable and united future through its Forward Singapore initiative. As an individual, you can contribute to this effort by taking action in your personal and professional life.
Adapting to Global Changes and Disruptions
The world is facing geopolitical tensions and climate change, which can cause disruptions in the economy and society. To adapt to these changes, Singapore is cultivating a climate-resilient economy and investing in the development of skills and knowledge. As an individual, you can reskill and upskill through initiatives like SkillsFuture to prepare for the future job market.
Cultivating a Green and Vibrant Economy
Singapore is committed to building a green and vibrant economy that is sustainable and inclusive. This involves investing in green infrastructure, supporting green businesses, and promoting sustainable practices. Employers and organisations can pledge to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a sustainable future.
Strengthening Social Infrastructure and Community Engagement
Singapore places great importance on social support and solidarity. The government and community groups work together to provide social support and build social capital. As an individual, you can contribute to this effort by engaging in community activities and initiatives. The Forward Singapore Festival is an opportunity to learn about the roadmap for a sustainable future and to pledge your commitment to a shared future.
In this effort towards a sustainable and united future, the 4G team, led by Lawrence Wong, is at the heart of the initiative. The team is committed to building a thriving and respected Singapore that is inclusive and equitable. This involves prioritising education, housing, and health, and promoting multi-racialism and meritocracy.
However, there are challenges to be faced, such as rising inequalities, foreign workers, and extremist political parties. To address these challenges, Singapore aims to maintain a stable state of affairs and promote free markets while mitigating excessive competition.
In conclusion, Singapore is charting a clear path towards a sustainable and united future, and you can play a part in this effort. By pledging your commitment, reskilling and upskilling, and engaging in community initiatives, you can contribute to a green, vibrant, and resilient Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main objectives outlined in the Forward Singapore report?
The main objectives outlined in the Forward Singapore report are to create a more vibrant and inclusive society, build a sustainable future, and ensure that all Singaporeans have the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in the 21st century.
Can you provide a summary of the Forward Singapore initiative?
Forward Singapore is a national initiative launched in 2022 to engage Singaporeans from all walks of life in a conversation about the future of the country. The initiative is based on six key pillars and aims to create a more vibrant and inclusive society, build a sustainable future, and ensure that all Singaporeans have the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in the 21st century.
Which six pillars form the foundation of Forward Singapore?
The six pillars that form the foundation of Forward Singapore are:
- A Vibrant and Inclusive Society
- A Green and Sustainable Future
- A Strong and Cohesive Community
- A Dynamic and Innovative Economy
- A Safe and Secure Singapore
- A Smart Nation with Digital Government
What events can we expect at the Forward Singapore Festival?
The Forward Singapore Festival is a celebration of the country’s future and will feature a range of events, including exhibitions, talks, workshops, and performances. The festival will provide an opportunity for Singaporeans to come together and discuss the country’s future, as well as to learn about the initiatives and programmes that are being developed to help shape that future.
How does the Forward Singapore social compact aim to shape society?
The Forward Singapore social compact aims to shape society by creating a shared vision for the future of the country. Through a process of engagement and dialogue, Singaporeans from all walks of life are being invited to contribute their ideas and perspectives on how to create a more vibrant and inclusive society, build a sustainable future, and ensure that all Singaporeans have the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in the 21st century.
In what ways does Forward Singapore’s SkillsFuture programme benefit individuals?
Forward Singapore’s SkillsFuture programme is designed to help individuals acquire the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the 21st century. The programme offers a range of courses and training opportunities, as well as financial support, to help individuals develop their skills and stay relevant in a rapidly changing economy. By investing in the skills and capabilities of its people, Singapore is creating a workforce that is better equipped to meet the challenges of the future.