Singapore’s approach is to keep what works, change what does not: PM Wong

The prime minister said cities must stay pragmatic, adaptive, and open to cooperation amid global uncertainty.

Singapore’s approach to navigating challenges is guided by pragmatism rather than ideology, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said at the 10th World Cities Summit.

Speaking at the opening of the summit on 15 June, Wong said Singapore has never fitted neatly into a single doctrine or model. Instead, the country tries different approaches, keeps what works, and changes what does not.

“Above all, we focus on what will deliver the best outcomes for Singapore and Singaporeans,” he said.

Wong said the world is facing profound change, with rising geopolitical tensions, rapid technological shifts, cost-of-living pressures, job anxieties, and weakening trust in institutions. These pressures, he said, are often felt most sharply in cities, where housing, transport, inequality, public services, climate risks, and social stress converge.

However, cities are also well-placed to find solutions because they bring together people, ideas, capital, and innovation, he added.

Wong said Singapore’s own development journey reflects the need to balance competing priorities. Whilst the country places strong emphasis on economic growth, he said a good life cannot be measured by GDP alone.

He cited Gardens by the Bay and the Rail Corridor as examples of Singapore setting aside valuable land for public spaces that improve the quality of life, strengthen people’s connection with nature, and benefit future generations.

Wong also pointed to public housing as an example of where the state plays a more active role. About eight in 10 Singapore residents live in public housing flats, with the government ensuring a sufficient supply and subsidies to keep homeownership within reach.

He said Singapore’s housing policy also supports social cohesion by ensuring that residents of different races and backgrounds live together in the same estates.

On ageing, Wong said Singapore is developing “Age Well” neighbourhoods to allow seniors to age in place within their homes and communities, with support from healthcare providers, community groups, caregivers, and volunteers.

He added that Singapore will continue to harness technology and engineering to strengthen resilience, including through expanded digital services, urban cooling and heat mitigation solutions, and coastal protection against rising sea levels.

Wong also announced the launch of the Liu Thai Ker Distinguished Speaker Series in honour of the late urban planner who helped shape Singapore’s new towns and contributed to global urban development. The inaugural session will be held later this year.

Singapore is also launching a new Mayoral Fellowship to provide a platform for city leaders to exchange ideas and build long-term relationships. The first fellows are from Agra, Bucharest, Kigali, and Tshwane, whilst former mayors of Helsinki and Paris will join as visiting fellows.