Key takeaways from Singapore's Deliberative Approach: Paving for Stronger Social Compact

With its innovative "Forward Singapore" initiative, the island nation is taking a deliberative approach to redefine its social compact by engaging in extensive conversations with its citizens as it paves the way for a stronger relationship between the government and the people.

At a recent exclusive meet with the Republiç's Minister for National Development, Mr Desmond Lee, Astro AWANI's Editor-in-Chief, Ashwad Ismail had the opportunity to delve deeper into the valuable lessons that other ASEAN countries can learn from, simple yet effective touch to recapture the imagination of the future and and its potential to foster a more cohesive society.

“It's taken us almost a year now -- we have had a series of closed door conversations, in some instances, those were difficult conversations and that's a major exercise for "Forward Singapore".

“We hope to refresh our social compact, strengthen relationship between government and people, and citizens of different income levels, and of course between this generation and the next,” said Lee.

Singapore's "Forward Singapore" initiative represents a paradigm shift from traditional political discourse.

Arguably, it solely focuses on what the government is able to do for its citizens, the initiative emphasises shared responsibility.

Lee believes that social compact should outline the responsibilities of both the government and its people. Boosting social mobility, increasing sustainability, job creation are some fundamental areas that Singapore's youths are seeking.

Reframing the narrative towards collaboration and active citizenship is key, hence, Singapore is poised in its mission to foster a sense of ownership and collective action.

The deliberative process lies at the heart of Singapore's social compact initiative.

Over the course of almost a year, closed-door conversations had taken place, delving into sensitive and complex issues.

The objective is to address short-term goals, but most importantly, it would lay the groundwork for a refreshed social compact.

With this, Singapore aims to bridge income disparities, strengthen the bond between the government and its citizens, as well as promote intergenerational harmony.

Take COVID-19 for instance, the pandemic has further highlighted the importance of building reserves for future generations, ensuring a secure future for all.

“It is not about five or 10 years, or what more the government can do for you, but it is rather to have conversations on what responsibilities we each hold.

“Singapore is a small place with limited resources. How do we meet aspirations? It must mean that you and I can reach an understanding when it comes to housing, jobs and how we should prepare for the future,” Lee explained.

The "Forward Singapore" initiative is built upon six key pillars: Empower, Equip, Care, Build, Steward, and Unite.

These pillars serve as a roadmap for Singapore's vision of the future.

However, the initiative goes beyond mere rhetoric.

It seeks to engage citizens, introducing them to the challenges that lie ahead and encouraging them to actively contribute their ideas and aspirations.

Mr Lee is optimistic understanding weaknesses is crucial for realistic dreaming and effective planning, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for all Singaporeans.

The concerns of Singapore's younger generation are at the forefront of the social compact initiative.

They question whether they are able to surpass the achievements of their parents and whether their children will have greater opportunities in the future.

Beyond material aspirations, the Alis, Muthus and Ah Hocks, long for stable settlements, fulfillments, and self-exploration.

In response, the Singaporean government has shared its roadmap for crucial sectors such as housing, transport, education, and healthcare.

By actively involving the younger generation in the decision-making process, Singapore ensures that their needs and aspirations are taken into account.

“It's not necessarily a material thing that people are aspiring towards – it’s also the sense of being settled, sense of fulfillment and self exploration – not all aspirations are necessarily material.

“They want homes, bigger and better homes. But in our conversations with Singaporeans, we share with them our roadmap, and what we are doing for housing, transport, education, healthcare. And they might say, so what can we do to address my needs and the needs of the next generation? I can clear all the greenery, remove some medical institutions just to build homes, but is that what you want? No,” he said.

Firstly, it emphasises the importance of shared responsibilities between the government and the people, fostering a sense of ownership and active citizenship.

Secondly, it highlights the need for long-term planning and building reserves to ensure the well-being of future generations.

Lastly, Singapore is focused on addressing environmental concerns and combating poverty showcases the alignment between citizens' aspirations and government policies.

Facing the fragmented world and to rebuild trust across the spectrum, Singapore's "Forward Singapore" initiative offers a refreshing and inspiring model.

By prioritising conversations on responsibilities and aspirations, recognizing the significance of shared responsibility, long-term planning, and addressing pressing concerns should not be taken lightly.