Budget 2024 debate: Razwana Begum Abdul Rahim on inclusivity in delivering targeted assistance

Budget 2024 is fiscally responsible, strategic and future-focused - an optimistic and balanced first instalment towards the implementation of Forward Singapore, said NMP Razwana Begum Abdul Rahim. Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday (Feb 28), she pointed out that the central message is inclusivity - that Singapore is for everyone and its future belongs to everyone. She stressed the need for equity, transparency and accountability. Assoc Prof Razwana said the targeted approach in the Budget is important and its benefits must be delivered to those with the greatest needs. To ensure that families receive assistance that matches their needs, the Government and private and community sectors have to work together. There should also be culturally appropriate community education campaigns to remind all Singaporeans on the types of assistance available, especially for families which may have become used to living with disadvantage, she said. She also stressed the need to continue to deliver financial assistance initiatives in a fiscally, environmentally and socially sustainable manner. Turning to lifelong learning, Assoc Prof Razwana called for a whole-of-nation approach rather than a sector- or system-based approach. She said lifelong learning benefits society, regardless of whether the learning leads to immediate or identifiable organisation or economic benefits. It is also important to recognise that lifelong learning is relevant to all Singaporeans, including the unemployed and those in platform, low-wage or manual employment. She urged the Government to consider setting up an inter-agency taskforce or commission to make recommendations on the policies, programmes and strategies to embed an effective, equitable and sustainable culture of lifelong learning.