Ли Сяньлун Инстаграм фото

Congratulations to everyone who received ‘A’ Level results today. By now, you should be no stranger to collecting exam results! ⠀ ⠀ But remember – this is not the completion of your journey, just the beginning. The way forward may seem daunting as you get closer to adulthood and your paths diverge. Whichever path you choose, I hope you keep up the momentum. All the best! :) – LHL⠀ ⠀ (Release of A Level results at Dunman High School. / MCI Photo by Zinkie Aw)

With the measures to protect ourselves from COVID-19, we often have to stop for temperature screenings at office buildings and shopping centres. I was checked too, arriving at Parliament for the Budget 2020 speech on Tuesday! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ During this period, we should take our own temperatures twice daily. @nus_singapore students and faculty have made it fun with their #thisismesg hashtag on Instagram. We owe it to those around us to be responsible, and seek treatment if we show symptoms. – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #SGUnited #SingaporeTogether ???⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photo by Chwee)

A timely tribute to the many, many unsung heroes working quietly behind the scenes during this COVID-19 outbreak. The things we do daily — washing our hands, keeping proper personal hygiene practices — can seem simple or even trivial. But collectively these actions make a big difference to the whole of society. Let’s work together to keep everyone safe and healthy, and keep Singapore going. – LHL #SGUnited #SingaporeTogether

This year’s Budget has extra significance. It provides critical support for Singaporeans and our economy as we deal with the COVID-19 outbreak.⠀ ⠀ We are able to do this because of our fiscal prudence and discipline over many years. Together, we have put aside enough to cope with a rainy day like this.⠀ ⠀ The Stabilisation and Support Package for workers and businesses will help tide them through the immediate term. The Care and Support Package will assure families and households. Meanwhile, we must continue to steward our resources and strengths, so that we are ready to grow again when the outbreak ends. ⠀ ⠀ While we deal with this outbreak, let us continue to look out for one another, and keep building Singapore together. ⠀ You can find out more at the MOF Budget website: www.singaporebudget.gov.sg⠀ ⠀ – LHL⠀ ⠀ #SGBudget2020??? ⠀ (DPM & Finance Minister @hengsweekeat arriving at Parliament to present Budget 2020. / MCI Photo by Fyrol)

Very encouraged to read your messages supporting our healthcare team on Valentine's Day. This camaraderie with fellow Singaporeans will see us through the COVID-19 situation. On Total Defence Day today, let us stay united and watch out for one another. When the Public Warning System sirens sound later at 6.20pm, think about what you can do to help keep Singapore strong together. – LHL (Photo by me) @WeAreTotalDefence

Visited @changiairport T3 today to meet the staff and workers, including taxi drivers, immigration officers and the medical staff. They are all working hard to keep our airport up and running during this challenging time. The travel industry has been hit hard by COVID-19. Changi Airport is on the frontline. Despite this, I found our workers in good spirits. I left the airport heartened by their professionalism and commitment. Thank you for your hard work and dedication, keeping Singapore open for business! We will ensure the safety of our workers, and enable them to do their jobs. Once again, let’s stay strong and united and we will overcome this challenge. – LHL #SGUnited #SingaporeTogether ([1] Photo by me; [2-6] MCI Photos by Fyrol)

Happy Valentine’s Day to a very special group of people who are going above and beyond the call of duty to keep us all safe and well, and to keep Singapore going! – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #BraveheartSG #SingaporeTogether ???⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (Photo by me)

You don’t have to be on the frontline fighting the coronavirus to make a difference. The acts of neighbourliness and kindness happening across our island show that the Singapore spirit is alive and well. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Delighted my own residents in Teck Ghee launched some initiatives too. :) The ‘@amktgpv Super Mummies’ group came together to make hand sanitisers from scratch, to place in their estate’s lifts on Saturday. Some residents put up a notice board for neighbours to share notes of cheer with frontline workers. Have also seen on social media how residents in Punggol, Sengkang, and Serangoon are showing the gotong royong spirit, leaving hand sanitisers, alcohol wipes, and face masks in the lifts for others who may need them. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Our healthcare workers have received many notes of gratitude and support from school children, and on notice boards set up at mask distribution points and residential estates. @power98sg has a running dedication where you can share your words of encouragement with our frontline personnel with the hashtag #SGUnited. ???⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ @nus_singapore and @ntu_sg student volunteers have been taking turns to deliver food, and notes of support and concern to their university mates on leave of absence. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ This kampung spirit and unity is what makes us Singaporean. I am sure there are many more heartwarming instances going on quietly. If you know of them, please share them in the comments below. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Let us all do our part to help and encourage one another. Together, we will overcome this trying time and emerge stronger. – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #SingaporeTogether

We have faced the novel coronavirus situation for about two weeks now. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ People are understandably anxious and fearful. But fear can end up doing more harm than the virus itself! It can lead to irrational panic, causing us to hoard facemasks or food. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Singapore has ample supplies — already, supermarkets across Singapore have restocked. There is no need to stock up on instant noodles or toilet paper, as was widely seen on social media yesterday. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Instead, let us stay united and resolute in this outbreak. Keep helping one another, as many of you have stepped up to do. And most importantly, stay calm and carry on with our lives. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ You can watch my message on the PMO YouTube channel (click on the link in my profile). – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photo by Betty Chua)

Today is Chap Goh Mei, the 15th and final day of #ChineseNewYear. I held my annual Chap Goh Mei dinner with MPs, community leaders, and guests last night at the Istana. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Because the DORSCON (Disease Outbreak Response System Condition) was raised to Orange yesterday, we took extra precautions like temperature scanning for my guests. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ The 2019-nCov outbreak is, of course, foremost on everybody’s minds. How we react to it is a major test for our nation. In terms of health outcomes, I am confident we will be alright. The real test is to our social and psychological defence. We must come through this challenge together, helping one another to cope, and maintaining confidence in one another and in Singapore. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Even as we fight the coronavirus, we must continue dealing with issues, external and domestic, that will always matter to Singaporeans. Finance Minister @hengsweekeat will deliver the Budget speech just over a week from now. It will support our long term plans for Singapore, and also include measures to see us through the economic fallout from the nCoV outbreak. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ The Year of the Rat has had a bumpy start. But we will continue to work hard to do all the things we need to, in order to secure a bright future for our children and for Singapore. – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photo by LH Goh)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Today is #Thaipusam. It is a holy festival of thanksgiving to honour Lord Murugan, who symbolises bravery and virtue. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Singaporeans would be familiar with the pots of milk and kavadis which devotees carry in procession to fulfill their vows and give thanks for blessings they have received. It is a solemn ceremony, with some spending weeks in advance purifying themselves in both mind and body. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I wish all devotees a happy and meaningful Thaipusam today. If you are taking part in the ceremony this year, do heed the additional measures to guard against the spread of the coronavirus. You can read about them here: thaipusam.sg/2019-ncov ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (The Straits Times © Singapore Press Holdings Limited. Reproduced with permission.)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Had a good time catching up with residents old and new at our Chinese New Year dinner celebration at Teck Ghee last night. The 2019 novel coronavirus was foremost on the minds of many residents, but fortunately that did not dampen the festive spirit. The island-wide mask distribution exercise kicked off today. The SAF and @pafrenz worked round the clock to make this happen. For last-mile distribution, many grassroots leaders and volunteers were activated to organise collection points. It is perhaps fitting that in the Year of the Rat, Singaporeans have embodied this particular creature’s qualities of resilience and creativity, and stayed united and strong. Wishing all a healthy and prosperous year ahead! 新的一年，我祝大家有🐭不尽的欢乐，合家安康，万事如意。 – LHL (MCI Photos by Rebecca Yang)

Visited the mask collection point at Teck Ghee Care RN Centre yesterday. Masks will be progressively rolled out to 1.37mil Singapore households at the RCs and CCs. This massive exercise was made possible because of the collective effort of the SAF, @pafrenz, and many, many Singaporeans. – LHL⠀ ⠀ (PMO Video by Alex Qiu)

Yesterday we started the island-wide mask distribution exercise for Singapore households. I stopped by one collection point in Teck Ghee to see how things were going, and to thank the volunteers and staff manning the operations. So far they have given out 1,000 packs of masks to residents.⠀ ⠀ If you haven’t picked up your masks yet, you can find out your collection day and time by keying in your postal code at https://www.maskgowhere.gov.sg. ⠀ ⠀ Do remember to bring your NRIC for verification, and heed the MOH advisory on the proper usage of masks.⠀ ⠀ The SAF and @pafrenz have done an outstanding job in getting the mask packs and collection points ready in time. Thank you for the hard work! – LHL⠀ ⠀ (MCI Photos by Rebecca Yang)

Last night’s Chingay Parade was lively, engaging, and full of energy as always! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ The theme of this year’s Chingay is “Colours in Harmony”. Chingay has long brought together people from varied backgrounds in joyous celebration, so the theme is an apt one to mark PA’s 60th year! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ The coronavirus is understandably on many peoples’ minds, but we cannot let fear stop us from carrying on with our lives. Organisers and performers have been preparing for this for months. I was very happy to see a decent turn out in the stands to view the fruits of their labour. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ A big thank you to @pafrenz for once again putting together a spectacular show, on top of mobilising to set up the free mask distribution points which start today. If you can’t make it for tonight’s show, fret not — the parade will be coming to the heartlands, too, including my own Ang Mo Kio GRC! (Check my Facebook post for details). – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ([1] Photo by Chwee; [2, 5, 10] Photos by me; [3, 4, 6-9] MCI Photos by Lee Jia Wen])⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

It has been a stressful week not just for the general public, but in particular for healthcare and medical professionals. We have watched the new coronavirus outbreak in China closely, from the moment the first news came out. Actually we have been preparing for such a situation ever since SARS in 2003. We knew that one day something like that would happen again. So, in a way, this outbreak was a shock, but not a surprise. 9 of the 13 confirmed cases in Singapore are currently being treated at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID), next to @tantocksenghospital. I visited NCID this morning to see for myself the screening and containment process for affected patients, and to meet and thank some of the people working day and night to treat them. I was very happy with what I saw. I urge everyone to show understanding and support to our healthcare and medical teams, public officers, the SAF and @pafrenz, who will be distributing masks to Singaporeans over the weekend. We owe them our gratitude for their hard work and dedication. I have every confidence that if we stay vigilant and united, we can overcome this challenge. – LHL (MCI Photos by Betty Chua)

Enjoyed a lively 初二 with grassroots volunteers and guests from Ang Mo Kio GRC and Sengkang SMC at my yearly #ChineseNewYear open house yesterday. Happy to share the evening with the many community partners that contribute to our vibrant, robust society. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ From Teck Ghee wellness ambassadors to PCF educators, Ren Ci representatives to AMK South NPC police officers and more — thank you for your dedicated support and good work for our residents. The new year may bring new challenges but we will tackle them together as one. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Wishing all a s鼠per 鼠年! 🐭 May good health and good fortune abound. 恭祝大家鼠年行大运! 🍊🍊 – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photos by Betty Chua)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Thanks to the ‪SQ345‬ crew who looked after us on our #CNY flight home from Zurich yesterday! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ In the midst of CNY and the Wuhan coronavirus, Singaporeans have to go about our work and lives, to make sure our systems continue to run smoothly and things get done. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ We must remain vigilant and take precautions to protect ourselves, but as the saying goes, Keep Calm and Carry On. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ You can get the latest on the Wuhan coronavirus and other important Government information by signing up for the @gov.sg WhatsApp channel (go.gov.sg/whatsapp), or at the MOH website (www.moh.gov.sg). – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (PMO Photo)

Happy #ChineseNewYear to one and all! It’s always amusing to see the interesting designs of the decorations and witty puns of the featured zodiac animal every year. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I wish everyone a prosperous and fruitful Year of the Rat, one abundant in health and happiness! 祝大家鼠年吉祥，万事如意！🍊🍊– LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (PMO Video by Arina Ong)

Had a joyous reunion dinner with around 250 overseas Singaporeans based in Zurich and further afield. We may be thousands of miles away from home, but the familiar accents and local spread of chicken rice and laksa brought warmth and comfort in the midst of snowy Switzerland. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Had a few more meetings with @worldeconomicforum Founder and Executive Chairman Klaus Schwab, Dutch PM Mark Rutte (@minpres), and business leaders before I left Davos for Zurich. Glad to be heading home now after a busy and fruitful trip at #wef20, especially in light of the first reported case of Wuhan coronavirus in Singapore. MOH has set up a multi-agency task force and we are well-prepared to deal with this situation. Meanwhile we must remain calm and vigilant, practise good personal hygiene and be socially responsible. Most importantly, please do not spread rumours and misinformation! – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photos by Fyrol)

Sat down for two dialogues at #wef20 yesterday. In the first session, moderated by @worldeconomicforum President Børge Brende, I spoke about the challenges on navigating a way forward in the midst of US-China tensions. The second session was a panel discussion around the theme “Leading a New Multilateralism”. Heard from fellow panelists on how other countries like Africa and India are dealing with global uncertainty, both economic and environmental. You can watch the first dialogue on the PMO YouTube channel (click on the link in my profile). – LHL (MCI Photos by Fyrol)

A full day of meetings yesterday on the sidelines of #wef20. Had good discussions with @microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Hong Kong Chief Executive @carrielam.hksar, Pakistan PM @imrankhan.pti, and a working lunch with business leaders organised by EDB. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Be it leading governments or businesses, we face some common challenges, as well as issues unique to our own situations. But by seeing different perspectives and learning from one another’s experiences, often we can find new insights. – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photos by Fyrol)

Took a short #jalanjalan after lunch to enjoy the sunshine and the bracing alpine air. The whole Singaporean delegation delighted in tromping through the knee-high snow — a novel experience for us! – LHL #wef20 ???⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (Photos by me)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Kicked off my Davos engagements with an informal chat with some young business leaders from Asia, including some from Singapore. They are in AI, banking, new media, logistics, real estate, telecommunications, among other fields. One common theme is tapping the power of the digital economy. Was impressed by their drive and desire to change the way business is done, and also to improve lives through their work. – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ([1] MCI Photo by Fyrol; [2] Photo by me)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Brrrrrr! It’s a chilly -5 degrees in Davos, Switzerland, where I have just arrived. ❄️ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Am here for the @worldeconomicforum Annual Meeting 2020, and also to meet political and business leaders. The world has changed a great deal since I last attended WEF in 2012. There will be much to discuss. – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #wef20 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photo by Fyrol)

பொங்கலோ பொங்கல்! Happy Pongal! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Joined Bukit Panjang residents at their 13th Pongal Festival celebrations this morning. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Pongal is a traditional Tamil harvest festival of thanksgiving. Milk and rice is set aboil in an earthen pot, and the overflowing milk symbolises abundance and prosperity. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Glad to see residents of all ages and races joining in the fun and activities. A shining example of our multicultural spirit. May this season bring you a multitude of blessings and prosperity! – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ([1-2] MCI Photos by Clement; [3-10] Photos by me)

It’s not been a month since the previous festive season, and Christmas music has segued into #ChineseNewYear tunes. Spent an enjoyable morning yesterday in Teck Ghee giving out hongbaos and meeting residents. Teck Ghee market was packed with young and old, shopping or having a late breakfast/early lunch. Glad to see so many families making the most of the weekend before #CNY. Also gave out goodie bags to our needy seniors in Teck Ghee. Just a week to go before the Year of the Rat – hope you’ve done your shopping and are ready to celebrate Chinese New Year! – LHL (MCI Photos by Rebecca Yang)

The government’s task has become more complex and multifaceted, with new challenges emerging every day. To cope with these challenges, the public service must transform itself and build new capabilities. One way it is doing so is by building a deeper, more diverse leadership. Traditionally, the Administrative Service shaped the leadership of our public sector organisations. AOs are responsible for putting together the big picture and coordinating strategies. However, the downside is that they are less able to build deep expertise in key domains like education, healthcare, and urban planning. This is why we set up the Public Service Leadership Programme, which allows officers to focus and develop deeper expertise in their fields. This helps our public service leaders maximise one another's strengths, and brings balance in our capabilities. I was happy to attend the first Annual Public Service Leaders dinner last night, and to see the two cadres brought together for the first time. At the same time, Singapore’s public service can work efficiently and effectively, because it can rely on a supportive political climate, and a competent political leadership. It is the Ministers’ job to get the politics right, and set the strategic direction of the country. I spoke about the importance of getting this vital relationship right in my speech at last night’s dinner. You can watch my speech on the PMO YouTube channel (click on the link in my profile). – LHL (MCI Photo by Lee Jia Wen)

Spent an engaging hour with scientists and mathematicians in Singapore for the Global Young Scientists Summit. Started in 2013 by the National Research Foundation, the Summit’s running theme is “Advancing Science, Creating Technologies for a Better World”. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ These outstanding researchers include recipients of the Nobel Prize, Fields Medal, and the Turing award. They have dedicated their lives to research, improving lives, and educating the next generation of science and tech leaders. In the last three days they have been mentoring and exchanging ideas with young scientists from around the world. They are an inspiration to young minds to devote their intelligence and energies to creating solutions to tackle global challenges, and for the betterment of mankind. – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photo by LH Goh)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Despite challenging conditions, our efforts to create a dynamic economy and bring more jobs for Singaporeans are bearing fruit. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ The new investments that EDB brought in last year should generate close to 33k jobs over the next few years. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ It is a strong affirmation of our workforce and trust in Singapore, that companies will entrust the growth of their businesses to us. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ As a CEO explained, the most valuable resource in the world is trust. But to gain trust one must first earn it. And to keep trust, one must continue to earn it. And here in Singapore, we have found the right people to do that. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Let's continue to build this trust that others have in Singapore, together. My thanks to the EDB and MTI teams in driving our economy to build a better Singapore. – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (Infographic by EDB)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Many Singaporeans enjoy the convenience and benefits of online government services. In 2019 alone, 63 million digital transactions took place on @cpf_board digital platforms. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I visited CPF Tampines today to better understand their digital infrastructure and systems. CPF has been working hard, bringing their IT systems up to date and improving their infrastructure to ensure that CPF transactions remain seamless and safe. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Looking ahead, CPF is looking to enhance their user experience through a newly improved digital shopfront. Users can expect more personalisation as the website is progressively upgraded. As a CPF member myself, I look forward to using the new features! – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photo by Lee Jia Wen)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Mr Wong Shang Hoon, affectionately known as Uncle Hoon to all at the Istana, is retiring after being a cook at the Istana for 57 years. Uncle Hoon has cooked many wonderful dishes for all of our presidents and prime ministers, as well as local and foreign guests. He joined the Istana as a server in 1963, but then President Yusof Ishak encouraged him to try out cooking instead. Uncle Hoon learnt many recipes and different styles of cooking from Puan Noor Aishah and my own grandmother. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Presented Uncle Hoon with a set of cookbooks earlier today and thanked him for his service and dedication all these years. Wishing him happiness and contentment in his retirement years. I will definitely miss his cooking! – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photo by Lee Jia Wen)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Joined many other visitors to explore the art installations at this year’s Light to Night Festival last Saturday. The Civic District came alive at night as the @nationalgallerysingapore, @acm_sg, @theartshouse, Victoria Theatre and Victoria Concert Hall, and the Padang were transformed by colourful light and sound projections. The Festival is on till this weekend, 19 January. Besides the installations, there’s lots to see and do — food, crafts, music performances, talks and art workshops, and even an escape room. The National Gallery will have free admission and extended hours this weekend. Do visit if you’re free! More info here: www.lighttonight.sg – LHL #LightToNightSG #jalanjalan (Photos by me)

Congratulations to all students who received your ‘O’ Level results today. It marks the culmination of years of hard work and effort put in by you and your teachers. However you did, take the time to explore your options for the next chapter of your learning adventure. There are many possibilities, each with their own merits. More importantly, do thank your teachers, friends and family for their support in this journey. The friendships and bonds forged over the past years are precious, and I hope you continue to keep in touch. I wish you all the best! – LHL (Release of 2019 ‘O’ Level results at Junyuan Secondary School. / MCI Photo by Chwee)

Hosted a few local startup entrepreneurs to lunch at the Istana yesterday. It was a young, lively group. They told me how their companies were doing and we had a candid discussion about the challenges of doing business and attracting top talent in Singapore. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ The range of industries — from tech and fashion to transport and logistics — spoke well of the vibrancy of our startup scene. We are growing a strong startup ecosystem — with a strong IP regime, access to talent, ease of doing business, and grants and funding for startups and SMEs. We will continue to find new and innovative ways to support local businesses. Hope to see more homegrown unicorns 🦄 ! – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photo by Chwee)

With Chinese New Year only two weeks away, the @singaporechineseorchestra’s wonderful Chinese New Year Concert last night, Rhapsodies of Spring 2020 certainly put everyone in the right mood for the festive season. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Apart from the beautiful tunes often associated with the spring festival, we were treated to a special drama performance by the entire team of DJs from @capital958fm, and a medley of Teresa Teng songs by popular local getai singer Yuan Jin. They have two more performances today if you wish to catch it, but do hurry, as there are limited tickets left. – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photos by Betty Chua)

Congratulations to Mr Bahren Shaari on being appointed a member of the Council of Presidential Advisers (CPA). An alternate member since 2017, Mr Bahren was sworn in as a full member yesterday. Two years ago, he won the Berita Harian Achiever of the Year award. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Mrs Mildred Tan took over Mr Bahren’s place as an alternate member on the CPA. She was sworn in at the same ceremony, presided over by President @halimahyacob. I look forward to Mr Bahren’s and Mrs Tan’s contributions to the CPA. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ The CPA is an important part of our system of government. The members advise the President on exercising her custodial powers, especially those related to fiscal matters and appointments. – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (MCI Photo by Chwee)

Greatly saddened to hear of the passing of former Chief Justice Yong Pung How today. He was born in Malaya, but made Singapore his home, and contributed immensely to our society. He served Singapore to the fullest, especially as Chief Justice, but also as Managing Director of the Government of Singapore Investment Corporation, Managing Director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore, and a member of the Council of Presidential Advisors. An astute banker, he also became Chairman and CEO of OCBC for a period! As our second Chief Justice, Mr Yong made bold and wide-ranging reforms, aggressively tightening the ship. He removed or adjusted anachronistic practices (like wearing horsehair wigs in court) to better suit the needs of Singaporean society. Mr Yong is featured in the Judicial Heritage Centre which opened this week at the Supreme Court. I visited there yesterday, and hope many Singaporeans will too, to learn something more about what he accomplished. To me personally, Mr Yong was a treasured family friend. My father got to know him as students in Cambridge, and I first met him and Mrs Yong as a very young child, when my parents visited them in Kuala Lumpur. Mr Yong has left an indelible mark on our legal profession and our society. My deepest condolences to Mrs Yong and her family. – LHL (Mr Lee Kuan Yew with former Chief Justice Yong Pung How at the Millennium Law Conference in 2000. / Photo: Ministry of Information and the Arts Collection, courtesy of National Archives of Singapore)

Met some of the International Judges from the Singapore International Commercial Court (SICC) over lunch today. They’re in town for the annual SICC Conference. Singapore’s Judiciary has a sterling reputation internationally, which the creation of the SICC has further boosted. In the interconnected world of global businesses, cross-border commercial disputes can be complex and challenging. The SICC allows such disputes to be resolved in a fair, transparent, and efficient manner in Singapore. We have a distinguished panel of International Judges supporting the work of the SICC. They bring a wealth of experience in many different fields, helping to strengthen us as a leading international arbitration hub. Also paid a visit to the Judicial Heritage Gallery, which just opened yesterday! It’s open to the public, and delves into the history of our Judiciary, from before the British arrived till today, and also looks at the Court of the future. – LHL (MCI Photos by Chwee)

Education is vital to Singapore’s future. We want every child to get the best education they can and develop to their fullest potential. This is how we can build a fair, just, and inclusive society, where the human spirit can flourish.⠀ ⠀ We are improving our education system — removing exams for some levels, introducing full subject-based banding in secondary schools, and changing the PSLE scoring system to reduce the over-emphasis on grades. These changes will give our children more time to explore their strengths and interests, cultivate a love for learning, and contribute to the community. We will also keep education always affordable. This year we are reducing preschool fees and bringing down higher education fees.⠀ ⠀ I was happy to present more than 1,100 Edusave and Bursary Awards over the weekend. The Edusave Awards recognise not just academic performance, but also our students’ efforts and achievements, affirming the importance of good character, strengths, and values. Congratulations to all the recipients! Continue to do well, in school and in life. – LHL⠀ ⠀ ([1, 4-6] MCI Photos by Clement; [2,3] MCI Photos by Fyrol)

Decided to explore the newly (officially) reopened @funansg on the last day of my leave yesterday. I’m sure many missed the old Funan IT Mall when it was closed more than 3 years ago — I used to take my children to shop for gadgets and computer parts there.⠀ ⠀ The reopened Funan has been revamped with interesting and modern features — an internal cycling path, co-working and co-living spaces, a cashless food court, a theatre for stage performances, an urban farm on the roof, and a rock-climbing wall right in the centre of the mall. It’s still a place to get or test out the latest gadgets, and now more than half the shops comprise homegrown brands, standing tall and making their mark among international brands. Hope the refreshed Funan will attract a new generation of visitors and fans! – LHL⠀ ⠀ #jalanjalan??? ⠀ (Photos by me)

With 2019 (and my leave!) coming to an end, I headed out to join other Singaporeans making the most of the holidays. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ On my staycation, I went #jalanjalan to Orchard Road, Marina Bay, @jewelchangiairport, and a few other places. Christmas decorations were still up, although they have probably made way for Chinese New Year decorations by now! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ By now, most of us will have returned to work and school. Looking forward to what 2020 brings! – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (Photos by me)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

A photo from a recent #jalanjalan while I was on leave. #Guesswhere? :) ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ [Update]: Many of you got it right! Took this from the back of @temasekshophouse, a social impact hub in the Orchard Road area. Have uploaded photos from other places I visited during my leave in my next post. – LHL ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ (Photo by me)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

It’s the first day of the school year, and the beginning of a new decade — one which I hope will bring a renewed sense of wonder and joy in learning and teaching.⠀ ⠀ To students: whether you are starting out in a new environment or returning to school, work hard, build strong friendships, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.⠀ ⠀ To parents: whether you are getting used to a new routine to spend time with your children or sending them to school, may you enjoy this season of life with them.⠀ ⠀ To teachers: may you continue to engage and inspire your students in new and interesting ways, and encourage them to improve themselves every day. You are shaping Singapore’s future generations and I hope you hold firm to this mission.⠀ ⠀ Hope everyone had a good first day of school! – LHL⠀ ⠀ (First day of school at New Fern Green Primary School in 2017. / ST Photo © Singapore Press Holdings Limited. Permission required for reproduction)

Deeply saddened to learn that LG (Ret) Ng Jui Ping passed away today. LG (Ret) Ng is probably best known as Singapore’s 2nd Chief of Defence Force. He was one of the inaugural batch of commissioned officers trained in SAFTI — the “SAFTI First Batch”. They were there at the creation, and played a major role in building up our armed forces from scratch. After retiring from the armed forces, LG (Ret) Ng held many positions, both in the public and private sectors. I will remember him most from my own time in the army, when he was first my CO, and later when I worked beside him — I learnt much from him as a leader and a colleague. He was a valued comrade and friend, who always led by example, and gave his all to serve the nation. – LHL (With LTG (Ret) Ng Jui Ping at the OCS Commissioning Parade and SAFTI 50th Anniversary Celebration in 2016. / MCI Photo by Chwee) My condolence letter can be read in full, here: bit.ly/2tmcFWg

[1/6] Wishing everyone a brilliant and wonderful 2020! ☺Happy New Year! 🎇– LHL (MCI Photo by Lee Jia Wen)

[2/6] Wishing everyone a brilliant and wonderful 2020! ☺ Happy New Year! 🎇 – LHL (MCI Photo by Lee Jia Wen)

[3/6] Wishing everyone a brilliant and wonderful 2020! ☺ Happy New Year! 🎇 – LHL (MCI Photo by Lee Jia Wen)

[4/6] Wishing everyone a brilliant and wonderful 2020! ☺ Happy New Year! 🎇 – LHL (MCI Photo by Lee Jia Wen)

[5/6] Wishing everyone a brilliant and wonderful 2020! ☺ Happy New Year! 🎇 – LHL (MCI Photo by Lee Jia Wen)