SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said
Singapore's economy is already starting to see a slowdown,
particularly in the electronics sector.
But he sounded a note of confidence, saying that
Singapore is prepared for the uncertainties
ahead.
"The economy... probably will grow slower than last
year. We're projecting 1 to 3 per cent growth. We have to take that
in our stride, and accept that. But within Singapore, we should
continue to build, we should continue to develop, we should
continue to prepare ourselves and our next generation for the
future," said Mr Lee.
Mr Lee said what the government can do is to improve the education
and public transport systems, and build more homes so that young
couples can start their families.
He made these points at a Lunar New Year event on Sunday morning in
his constituency of Teck Ghee, which is part of Ang Mo Kio
GRC.
He also officiated the re-opening of a wet market and food centre
at Block 409, Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10, which had recently been
renovated.
He said more of such markets will be built over the next few years,
with the aim of keeping food prices affordable.
The prime minister also distributed red packets, each with S$150 in
cash and supermarket vouchers to low-income residents.
It's a small gesture that brought a smile to housewife Haslinah
Mahmood, who said she's concerned her Malaysian husband will be
affected by the downturn.
"I'm more worried because he has a work permit. Who knows... if one
day he can't carry on working with the work permit, what will
happen to us?"
Madam Haslinah has two young children, and she plans to use the
money for school fees and transport fares.
- CNA/cc
