Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat said that Singapore needs to be able to tackle immediate issues while keeping sight of the long run.

In an interview with Xinhua news agency, Mr Heng explained that the Government has to think long-term and sometimes undertake policies that may not be of immediate concern to its people. “But if we set ourselves on the right trajectory from the beginning, I think we have a better chance of succeeding,” Mr Heng said.

He also reiterated it is important to achieve good societal consensus and find ways to mobilise Singaporeans to solve problems together while keeping Singapore cohesive and forward-looking.

Asked about the future challenges that Singapore face, Mr Heng pointed out the Republic’s rapidly ageing population as well as the future economy.

Amidst changes on the tech front and increased automation, Mr Heng said Singapore cannot afford to either overestimate or underestimate the impact of technological revolution and needs to adopt a calibrated approach with policies that work for both the short and long haul.

He added that technological change can be a force for good in the coming years, provided Singaporeans and businesses are prepared for it.

Image: Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat Facebook