As a young father, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung once believed that the biases and discrimination against women would naturally fade with societal progress. Speaking in Parliament on April 5, however, he admitted, “I soon realised it was not so simple.”
Reflecting on moments from his family life, Ong recounted how during Chinese New Year gatherings, relatives would ask his wife if she was ‘trying for a boy,’ while their two daughters overheard the conversation. He shared these experiences as part of the debate on the White Paper on Singapore women’s development, which outlines 25 action plans across five key areas, including equal workplace opportunities, caregiver support, and protections against violence.
Personal Reflections on Gender Inequality
Ong’s speech was filled with personal anecdotes highlighting his evolving views on gender roles. He recounted how one of his daughters was shocked upon learning about the concept of dowries, asking, “So it is a transaction? We are sold?” His attempt to explain that money flows both ways didn’t ease her concerns.
Ong also reflected on his upbringing, observing the clear division between “men’s work” and “women’s work” in his kampung. While the men in his family repaired cars and raised livestock, the women were responsible for cooking, cleaning, and childcare. He shared that it was through marriage and starting a family that his understanding of women’s roles deepened.
Advocating for Equality in Daily Life
Despite identifying as “old-fashioned,” Ong emphasized the importance of treating women with special courtesy, noting that he feels uneasy when female staff offer to carry his bag or open doors for him. “I will always try to stop them and offer to open the door for them instead, reminding them that ‘etiquette comes before protocol.'”
Addressing youth, Ong provided a simple but meaningful example of promoting equality: when taking photos, boys should offer to squat in front while allowing girls to stand at the back, emphasizing that positioning should reflect equality.
Moving Beyond Gender Stereotypes
Ong concluded by urging Singapore to accelerate its departure from outdated gender roles, both at home and in the workplace. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting women in their aspirations, advocating for a society free from unconscious bias and one that values mutual respect, meritocracy, and balance for caregivers.
The essence of the White Paper, Ong emphasized, is about ensuring freedom of choice for all individuals, and he expressed his strong support for the recommendations it puts forward.