SINGAPORE – Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has expressed his intention to field more women in the upcoming general election, aiming to increase the number of female representatives in Parliament. He urged the public to lend their support to women candidates when they are introduced.

PM Wong emphasized the importance of diversity within the political team, sharing that throughout his career, working with both men and women has brought about broader perspectives, leading to better decisions and solutions. He made these remarks at the People’s Action Party (PAP) Women’s Wing conference on August 31.

Currently, close to one-third of PAP’s Members of Parliament are women, a sharp contrast to the all-male PAP MPs in the 1970s and early 1980s. However, PM Wong acknowledged that further progress is needed to create a more inclusive society. He stressed that gender equality should not be viewed as a zero-sum game.

“Achieving equality for women does not mean that men will lose out,” he noted. He pointed out that in some countries, there is a growing divergence in views between men and women. PM Wong added that young men and boys also face challenges related to education and mental health.

He warned that if these concerns are not adequately addressed, some men may feel insecure and perceive the push for women’s equality as a threat. He emphasized that this must not happen in Singapore, stating, “We are all in this together,” as men and women must collaborate in work, family life, and raising children.

These issues were central to PM Wong’s first National Day Rally speech earlier in August, where he introduced measures like four weeks of paternity leave and a shared parental leave scheme.

Sim Ann, chairwoman of the PAP Women’s Wing, reflected on the group’s history during the conference, marking its 35th anniversary. She noted that getting more women involved in politics has historically been challenging, citing the election of the first three women MPs in 1984—Dr. Dixie Tan, Mrs. Yu-Foo Yee Shoon, and Dr. Aline Wong—after a 14-year gap without female representation in Parliament.

Ms. Sim described PM Wong’s commitment to fielding more women as an encouraging sign of trust in women’s abilities and leadership potential. She added that it motivates those engaged in grassroots activism to step up.

When asked if there is a specific target for the number of women candidates, Ms. Sim clarified that Singapore does not impose quotas on political representation. Instead, she emphasized the importance of merit and ability in securing leadership positions.

“The key here is not in setting numerical targets,” she said. “PM Wong’s confidence in the capabilities of women speaks volumes.”

Ms. Sim also highlighted that the PAP Women’s Wing will continue to focus on key issues, including women’s health, support throughout different life stages, and caregiver concerns, to advocate for policies that empower women to achieve their full potential, ultimately benefiting both women and men in Singapore.