Singapore progressively reopens borders and resumes travel while aiming for economic growth.
Text: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong expressed cautious optimism for 2022 as Singapore gradually reopens its borders and resumes travel. Despite challenges in sectors like tourism and food and beverage, Singapore’s economy is expected to grow between 3% to 5%. During a visit to Jurong Point on the eve of Chinese New Year, PM Lee acknowledged the uncertainty brought by the Omicron variant but remained hopeful that the global economy would continue its recovery without major disruptions. He also highlighted China’s zero-COVID policy as another potential factor that could influence global economic conditions.
While visiting Jurong Point, PM Lee met with taxi and delivery drivers, expressing gratitude for their hard work during the pandemic. He recognized the struggles they faced, particularly as remote working reduced the demand for transportation services. Despite these difficulties, government schemes have helped drivers adapt, and many are coping with the changing circumstances.
Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress, Ng Chee Meng, echoed these sentiments, noting that the gradual economic recovery is bringing back opportunities for workers. He also highlighted the importance of continuing to support drivers and delivery riders by addressing key concerns, such as workplace injury and insurance, to offer them greater financial security.
Ng concluded, “The way ahead, we hope to be able to assist our drivers, our delivery riders, with even better possibilities in the economy, especially where there are areas where we can improve on like workplace injury, insurances, that will give them some sense of assurance.”
