MPs Propose Support for Youth Amid President’s Address Debate

During the third day of the debate on the President’s Address, Members of Parliament (MPs) in Singapore emphasized the need for enhanced support for the nation’s youth. The discussions took place on September 24, 2023, with a total of 18 MPs, including Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, contributing to over six hours of debate. This session followed President Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s address on September 5, where he called for a “we first” mindset amidst global uncertainty.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Wong reiterated the focus on building a future-oriented society that prioritizes the needs of youth. He highlighted the government’s commitment to maintaining social mobility and strengthening safety nets in response to increasing economic challenges. Wong stated, “We must invest in our youth, ensuring they have the support necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

Calls for Empathy and Kindness in Education

MP Charlene Chen (PAP-Tampines) stressed the importance of instilling empathy in students as technology evolves. She argued that human attributes such as judgment and compassion must be safeguarded even as Singapore embraces advancements like artificial intelligence (AI). “Kindness may sound simple, but it is the foundation of empathy, resilience, and perspective-taking,” she noted, advocating for experiential learning through community service and outdoor challenges to cultivate these essential skills.

Minister of State for Education Jasmin Lau supported this sentiment, stating that kindness should be normalized to combat bullying effectively. “The real revolution is not against bullying, but for kindness,” Lau said. She emphasized that adults must model respectful behavior to inspire youth, reinforcing the notion that empathy and morality are irreplaceable by technology.

Supporting Young Families and Navigating Digital Challenges

As Singapore transitions toward becoming a super-aged society, many individuals find themselves in the “sandwich generation,” balancing the care of both their parents and children. MP Eileen Chong (WP) called for greater support for caregivers, advocating for equal preschool subsidies irrespective of maternal employment status. “Every child deserves the best start in life,” Chong stated, emphasizing the need for support structures that recognize unpaid caregiving’s value.

Further, MP Rachel Ong (PAP-Tanjong Pagar) proposed delaying children’s access to social media until they turn 16. She highlighted that excessive use of social platforms can lead to severe mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. Ong suggested implementing strict age verification, time limits, and designated phone-free zones to protect youth from the adverse effects of social media.

Associate Professor Nadia Ahmad Samdin echoed concerns about digital exposure, mentioning that algorithms can manipulate children’s attention and perceptions. She advocated for mental health screenings as part of the Grow Well SG programme and proposed expanding outreach services to include younger children.

The debate underscored the importance of preparing the youth for an AI-driven future while maintaining essential human values. MPs emphasized that children must learn to navigate technology without losing their humanity. As Singapore continues to evolve, the focus on kindness, empathy, and comprehensive support for families appears crucial in shaping a resilient society.