Budget 2024 debate: Lim Biow Chuan on avoiding handouts and ‘ang pow’ mindset

Many people view the Budget Statement as “simply an announcement of the goodies” which the Government dishes out for its citizens, said MP Lim Biow Chuan. “I really hope that we can change that mindset,” he said in Parliament on Monday (Feb 26). He stressed that the financial policy of the Government must be not just to help citizens tide over current issues, but also to provide a roadmap for Singapore's future. If the Government does not plan for the future, then “we are merely putting out fires every time a crisis happens”, he said. Mr Lim said the disbursement of cash, vouchers and rebates will certainly help residents cope with the increased cost of living. They should not be seen as the “ang pow” or gift to the citizens but are meant to alleviate the increased expenses that every household is facing, said Mr Lim. He said such cash, vouchers and rebates cannot be the long-term solution as citizens may keep asking for more handouts. He expressed concern that when exigencies like another COVID-19 pandemic strike, the Government cannot balance its Budget. He urged the Government to review the reasons for the increase in costs and to find ways to mitigate such increases.