Debate on President’s Address: Wan Rizal on promoting Singapore’s ‘brand of meritocracy’
Meritocracy is a core value that has been instrumental to Singapore’s success, said MP Wan Rizal. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday (Apr 18), he stressed the need to continue to promote Singapore’s “brand of meritocracy” to ensure that everyone has the tools to succeed. He said education plays a crucial role as a vehicle for social mobility by providing multiple platforms for individuals with different interests and passions to develop, which in turn will lead to equal opportunities for all. It is also the “cornerstone of our society”, shaping the hearts and minds of future generations, he said. To pursue meritocracy, Singapore must continually invest in early childhood education to provide a strong foundation and ensure that every child has an opportunity to succeed. In this rapidly evolving world, Singapore’s education system must adapt and innovate, as well as nurture well-rounded individuals who can thrive in diverse environments, he said. Turning to mental health, Mr Wan Rizal stressed the need to continue with efforts to destigmatise the condition and recognise that it is just as important as physical health. He said Singaporeans have a collective responsibility to create an environment where everyone can access the support needed. He suggested increasing access and reducing the costs and waiting time for mental health services. He urged the Government to give more subsidies and expand such services in the heartlands. The Government should also invest in preventive measures, such as focusing on early intervention and providing mental health education for students, as well as funding mental health research, he said.
Meritocracy is a core value that has been instrumental to Singapore’s success, said MP Wan Rizal. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday (Apr 18), he stressed the need to continue to promote Singapore’s “brand of meritocracy” to ensure that everyone has the tools to succeed. He said education plays a crucial role as a vehicle for social mobility by providing multiple platforms for individuals with different interests and passions to develop, which in turn will lead to equal opportunities for all. It is also the “cornerstone of our society”, shaping the hearts and minds of future generations, he said. To pursue meritocracy, Singapore must continually invest in early childhood education to provide a strong foundation and ensure that every child has an opportunity to succeed. In this rapidly evolving world, Singapore’s education system must adapt and innovate, as well as nurture well-rounded individuals who can thrive in diverse environments, he said. Turning to mental health, Mr Wan Rizal stressed the need to continue with efforts to destigmatise the condition and recognise that it is just as important as physical health. He said Singaporeans have a collective responsibility to create an environment where everyone can access the support needed. He suggested increasing access and reducing the costs and waiting time for mental health services. He urged the Government to give more subsidies and expand such services in the heartlands. The Government should also invest in preventive measures, such as focusing on early intervention and providing mental health education for students, as well as funding mental health research, he said.