Singapore PM encourages couples to have more children in Chinese New Year message

Noting that many Chinese families consider a child born in the Year of the Dragon to be especially auspicious, Lee said it is a good time for young couples to add a "little dragon" to their families, said Xinhua.

"I hope my encouragement prompts more couples to try for a baby, although I know that the decision is very personal," the prime minister told the public.

"We will build a 'Singapore Made For Families' and continue supporting your marriage and parenthood aspirations," Lee stressed, noting that the government-paid paternity leave has been doubled from two to four weeks on a voluntary basis.

"Couples will decide whether to have children for their own reasons. I am confident they will find parenthood a deeply rewarding and fulfilling journey," Lee said.

--BERNAMA-XINHUA