Lawrence Wong, an economist and leader of Singapore’s “4G team,” has been officially sworn in as the fourth Prime Minister of Singapore in a carefully planned political transition for the island nation.
Wong, aged 51, assumes the role following the retirement of veteran statesman Lee Hsien Loong, aged 72, who served as Prime Minister for two decades. Both belong to the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP), which has been instrumental in driving Singapore’s economic development for over fifty years.
In his inaugural address, Wong highlighted the significance of this transition, emphasizing the passing of leadership between generations. He noted that he is the first Prime Minister of Singapore to be born after independence, and the majority of his colleagues in the 4G team were also born after 1965, the year of Singapore’s independence.
Wong, previously serving as Deputy Prime Minister for nearly two years, will now lead the government as both Prime Minister and Finance Minister, a role he already held. Lee has transitioned to the position of Senior Minister and also took the oath of allegiance during the ceremony.
During his speech, Wong addressed geopolitical tensions and protectionism, stressing the need for Singapore to prepare for these challenges. He emphasized continuity and stability in his government’s approach, citing reasons for maintaining the existing ministerial lineup.
Wong’s government is expected to continue pro-business policies, given Singapore’s status as a financial hub and trading center. His leadership team includes Deputy Prime Ministers Heng Swee Keat and Gan Kim Yong.
President Tharman Shanmugaratnam expressed confidence in Wong’s leadership, particularly as Singapore navigates uncertain international waters. He praised Wong’s role in shaping the country’s economic and social policies.
Wong’s appointment has been welcomed by various sectors, including the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), which expressed confidence in the continued flourishing of Singapore-India ties under his leadership. Murali Pillai, an Indian-origin PAP parliamentarian, has been promoted as Minister of State in the Ministry of Law and the Ministry of Transport.
