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SINGAPORE : REACH, the Singapore government's feedback unit, gathered responses from more than 200 people on Tuesday regarding Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's National Day Rally speech.
Many Singaporeans said they are happy with the extras being given to encourage higher birth rates, such as financial support for In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) treatment.
"We're trying for our second (baby), so since they're giving incentives on IVF, we're looking ahead to that next year," said one Singaporean.
However, some are hoping for even more benefits. "I'd like to see more efforts put into it so I can have the second (baby), the third one, or a fourth one, maybe," said one parent.
But what seems to have really struck a chord is the prime minister's call for men to be more hands on in taking care of their babies.
"This would be a good opportunity for my brothers-in-law to listen up to this speech by PM and get into action, because most of the baby-taking care work is done by my sisters and sisters-in-law," said another Singaporean.
While the baby issue may be on the minds of many Singaporeans, it is a totally different world in cyberspace, with many saying more can be done to help Singaporeans.
On Facebook and on the REACH website, some netizens have been posting feedback on the rising cost of living and foreign talent.
Dr Amy Khor, chairman of the REACH Panel, said: "A significant number is still very concerned about foreign talent or foreign workers competing with the locals, particularly for jobs at the lower end.
"So, I think there's quite a lot of calls for the government to enforce stricter controls on employers with regards to hiring foreign workers, especially those at the lower end."
The organisation said it forwards suggestions and feedback to the relevant ministries.
Members of the public can log on to the REACH website to send in their feedback. - CNA /ls
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