Prime Minister Lawrence Wong delivered a passionate plea to 300 new citizens at the National Citizenship Ceremony on August 31, urging them to actively shape Singapore’s future. Speaking to a diverse group in the city-state of six million, Wong emphasised that true citizenship goes beyond a title—it’s about contributing to society and forging connections.

“Get to know your neighbours, build bonds with people from different backgrounds, and embrace our shared values,” Wong said, as reported by The Straits Times. With Singapore facing a low birth rate of under one percent, the nation welcomes around 22,000 new citizens each year to bolster its workforce and community.

Wong highlighted multiculturalism as a cornerstone of Singapore’s identity. “We don’t let differences divide us; we make diversity our strength,” he said, encouraging new citizens to weave their stories into Singapore’s vibrant tapestry.

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The ceremony, organised by the People’s Association and supported by the National Integration Council, celebrated the commitment of new citizens to the Republic. Wong spotlighted two inspiring individuals: Ye Htut Linn, a 24-year-old Nanyang Technological University student from Myanmar, and Ng Jie Ni, a 34-year-old nurse originally from Malaysia.

Linn, who arrived in Singapore at age six, co-founded a social enterprise, Commenhers, which empowers women to upcycle textile waste into sustainable products. “Being a citizen gives me a sense of belonging,” he said, reflecting on his journey to citizenship in 2011.

Ng, a nurse at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, was inspired by Singapore’s COVID-19 response to settle here permanently. Now expecting her first child, she volunteers at her local Residents’ Network and church, finding joy in community engagement. “Volunteering lets me learn from others while giving back,” she shared.

Wong reminded the audience that Singapore’s future isn’t shaped by the government alone. “It’s all of us—new and old citizens—working together,” he said. “Your contributions will keep the Singapore spirit alive and take our nation to new heights.”

Since its inception in 2007, the National Citizenship Ceremony has symbolised the importance of social cohesion and integration, reinforcing Singapore’s commitment to unity in diversity.

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