East Coast Plan unveiled

[jw5]

HSK thanks everyone.

Heng Swee Keat

is in Manchester, United Kingdom.​

·
Like Singapore, Manchester is building a vibrant innovation ecosystem by bringing together government, corporates, academics, investors and talent. I had productive meetings at leading research and innovation institutes on areas such as life sciences and renewable energy. There is good potential for Singapore and Manchester to build closer linkages between our innovation ecosystems at the research, translation and commercialisation levels.
For example, the UK Biobank has data from over 500,000 participants, while Singapore is collecting data from 100,000 participants as part of our PRECISE-SG100K population health study. By working together, there is potential for us to better understand genetics and diseases, and jointly advance precision medicine together.
Thanks to everyone for your warm hospitality!

 

[jw5]

HSK completes his UK visit and heads off to Japan.

Heng Swee Keat

is in Manchester, United Kingdom.​

·
Completed my working visit to the UK.
Happy to have met with Secretary of State for Health Wes Streeting. We discussed our respective healthcare priorities, the importance of innovation and technology in enhancing healthcare delivery, and how we could build closer collaborations between Singapore and the UK in these areas.
I also met the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham. Andy served in the Blair and Brown Governments, and has been elected to lead Greater Manchester since 2017, where he has been working to establish Manchester as a regional innovation hub. We had a good exchange of views on how government, academia, finance, industry and talent can come together to grow vibrant and integrated innovation ecosystems. Such ecosystems form a critical foundation for economies of the future, and create good jobs and opportunities.
Heading off to Japan for the next leg of my trip now

 

[jw5]

HSK took a walk.

Heng Swee Keat

is in Tokyo, Japan.​

·
Konnichiwa! I’ve arrived in Tokyo for the second leg of my working trip.

Took a walk in a nearby park after a long flight.
Looking forward to exchanging views with our partners in Japan to deepen collaborations on research, innovation and enterprise in both countries.
(Photo by me)

 

[jw5]

HSK had a good discussion.

Heng Swee Keat

is in Tokyo, Japan.​

·
Met with Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Mr Hayashi Yoshimasa today and congratulated him on his reappointment earlier this month.
I thanked Hayashi san for his efforts to deepen Singapore-Japan relations.
We had a good discussion on deepening and expanding the economic and innovation cooperation between our two countries, particularly in the areas of sustainability, artificial intelligence, space technologies and microelectronics. We also discussed how we could tackle our common challenges brought about by rapidly aging populations.
We also expressed our commitment to strengthen relations between our countries and look forward to commemorating the 60th anniversary of Singapore-Japan relations in 2026.
(MDDI Photo by Ngau Kai Yan)

 

[jw5]

HSK is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr Lee Wei Ling.

Heng Swee Keat​

·
I’m deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr Lee Wei Ling early this morning.
I have known Wei Ling since 1997, when I was serving as the Principal Private Secretary to then Senior Minister Lee Kuan Yew. I was involved in several discussions with Wei Ling, including in the learning and development of children. Wei Ling had strong views and convictions, and articulated these well. As a neuroscientist, she was especially passionate about the learning and development of children.
We all learnt much from her, especially on how young children learn languages. This was particularly valuable when I was Education Minister and working on our bilingual policies.
I was delighted when Mr Lee Kuan Yew decided to set up the LKY Fund for Bilingualism, to help young students learn their mother tongues as early as possible. I consulted many experts who agreed with the views that Wei Ling articulated earlier. MOE also worked with Lianhe Zaobao, Berita Harian and Tamil Murasu to develop suitable materials for our young.
As a neurologist and the Director of the National Neuroscience Institute, she was an outstanding doctor who was devoted to caring for her patients and their families. When I had my stroke 8 years ago, I was unconscious for several days. When I regained consciousness, Wei Ling visited me at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. She spent almost an hour with my wife and me, advising us on how to recover well and to stay physically and mentally active to rebuild my neural network. We deeply appreciated her care and concern for me.
My deepest condolences to SM Lee Hsien Loong, Hsien Yang and all family members. Wei Ling will be well remembered by us, and the many patients she helped, for her professional care, and her concern for others. Our young ones have benefited from her views on learning, especially of languages.
Thank you, Wei Ling. May you rest in peace.

 

[jw5]

HSK was glad to exchange views.

Heng Swee Keat​

·
Japanese banks are global leaders in infrastructure and sustainable finance, and have contributed to regional growth and development over the past few decades.
In the next bound of economic growth, Japanese banks can play an important role to mobilise capital in support of science, technology, and innovation.
Glad to exchange views with financial sector leaders on upcoming initiatives to support productivity and growth — from supporting their customers to invest in new technologies, to building new capabilities in AI and quantum computing, to setting up new venture capital arms to help innovative start-ups scale up. These efforts will help address common challenges that Asia faces, including demographic change and climate change.
As a trusted global financial centre, Singapore hopes to be a gateway for Japanese companies looking to explore new opportunities across Asia. I look forward to deepening our partnerships in sustainable finance, tech innovation, and regional connectivity with our partners from Japan.

 

[jw5]

HSK wants to learn from Japan.

Heng Swee Keat​

·
Singapore and Japan share a long-standing partnership in research and innovation, with wide-ranging collaborations in strategic areas such as quantum, AI, semiconductor, health, and biomedical sciences.
Had good visits to research and scientific institutes in Japan, including the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), University of Tokyo, and National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology (NCGG) in Aichi. I look forward to deepening cross-institutional collaborations and advancing our expertise for mutual benefit.
Like Japan, Singapore faces the challenge of an ageing population, which has broad implications for health, economics, and policy. There is much we can learn from Japan’s innovative approaches, particularly the programmes developed by NCGG to promote healthy longevity and advance dementia care.

 

[jw5]

HSK was happy to visit Aichi Prefecture to launch BLOCK71 Nagoya at STATION Ai, a Japanese startup hub located in Nagoya.

Heng Swee Keat

is in Aichi Prefecture.​

10 October at 21:05 ·
Happy to visit Aichi Prefecture to launch BLOCK71 Nagoya at STATION Ai, a Japanese startup hub located in Nagoya.
BLOCK 71 is an initiative by NUS Enterprise to build collaborative and strategic partnerships with corporates and government agencies. This latest project marks a milestone in NUS’s ongoing partnership with Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya City, and Nagoya University to support innovation and entrepreneurship.
BLOCK71 Nagoya will play a bridging role to help STATION Ai startups expand their business by connecting them with the innovation ecosystem in Singapore and Southeast Asia. At the same time, it will also serve as a base for BLOCK71 startups to expand and build new partnerships in Japan.
Also glad to meet the Governor of Aichi Prefecture, Mr Hideaki Omura. We reaffirmed the strong cooperation between Singapore and Japan, especially with Aichi Prefecture. We welcomed the launch of BLOCK71 Nagoya, and discussed possible areas for collaboration, including in start-ups and innovation.
With Aichi's strengths in manufacturing, robotics, and mobility, we look forward to more Japanese startups tapping into Singapore's strategic location, strong connectivity, and vibrant R&D ecosystem to drive innovation in the region.

 

[jw5]

HSK thanks all the NEA officers.

Heng Swee Keat​

10h ·
National Environment Agency (NEA)’s ongoing efforts to fight dengue through #ProjectWolbachia has had a successful outcome at Bedok North.
Results from this two-year study, which started in July 2022, show a reduction of the Aedes mosquito population by 80% to 90%. In turn, this has greatly reduced the risk of residents getting infected with dengue by about 75%.
Building on this positive outcome, NEA will be expanding the coverage of Project Wolbachia to five more sites in different parts of Singapore – Hougang, Serangoon Central, Serangoon North, Jurong East and Jurong West. Thank you to all the NEA officers for their hard work, and to all our residents for playing your part in Singapore’s #FightAgainstDengue!
The male Wolbachia-Aedes mosquitoes released under #ProjectWolbachia do not bite and cannot transmit disease. There is no need to worry.
Let us all remain vigilant and take steps to prevent mosquito breeding.
Read more here: https://go.gov.sg/nea3oct

 

[jw5]

HSK was happy to open the 7th edition of Industrial Transformation ASIA-PACIFIC (ITAP).

Heng Swee Keat​

·
The manufacturing sector globally continues to catalyse important innovations that can help transform economies to be future-ready and more resilient. As we look to the future of manufacturing, we must seek to harness technological advances and seize opportunities to address two interconnected trends – the digital revolution and the green transition.
Happy to open the 7th edition of Industrial Transformation ASIA-PACIFIC (ITAP) this morning. As we invest more deeply in Industry 4.0, there is much for us to collaborate with, and learn from one another across Asia and globally. I encouraged different stakeholders – government, enterprises and academia – to build closer partnerships that advance research in manufacturing, translate scientific insights into innovative solutions, and upskill the manufacturing workforce to make the best of new technologies.
Under our #Manufacturing2030 plan, Singapore aims to increase our manufacturing value-add by 50% between 2020 and 2030. Glad to launch the Singapore Workforce Institute of Future Transformation, or SWIFT, that will better enable this. A collaboration between Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), SkillsFuture SG and the Advanced Manufacturing Training Academy, SWIFT will equip our manufacturing workers with future-ready skills for the evolving manufacturing landscape, especially in AI and sustainability.
I thank Constellar Holdings, Deutsche Messe and all other partners for bringing together some of the best minds globally to discuss how the future of manufacturing can shape a better world. Wishing all participants a fruitful and productive #ITAP2024!

 

[jw5]

HSK thanks SINDA and their partners.

Heng Swee Keat

is with Jessica Tan Soon Neo and
2 others
.​

11h ·
We’re just two weeks away from Deepavali!
I was happy to be part of Singapore Indian Development Association's (SINDA) Project Give Heartlands — a meaningful initiative that supports the financial and social needs of Indian families.
As part of the Deepavali celebrations, beneficiaries from around 116 households received vouchers and goodie bags — a gesture of care that embodies the essence of the Festival where light prevails over darkness. It is also a reminder of our strength as a multicultural society where we come together to uplift and support one another. This is truly a community initiative that is for the community!
My thanks to SINDA and their partners, as well as the Bedok Indian Activity Executive Committee (IAEC) for bringing the festive cheer to the heartlands. I hope these contributions will bring happiness to the families as they prepare for Deepavali!

 

[jw5]

HSK is proud of Olympians and Paralympians.

Heng Swee Keat

is with Eric Chua and
6 others
.​

·
Our Olympians and Paralympians did us proud at the Paris 2024 Games. Minister Edwin Tong moved a motion in Parliament today to honour and celebrate their achievements.
Singapore achieved our best showing yet of two gold medals, a silver, and a bronze at the Games, and we saw our athletes, some of them debutants, competing with utmost determination and courage against the world’s finest.
This historic showing would not have been possible without the dedication of our Team Singapore athletes, their families and coaches, and the invaluable support from our National Sports Associations, Singapore National Olympic Council, Singapore National Paralympic Council, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth - MCCY, Sport Singapore, Singapore Sports School and many other partners.
Well done! May our athletes inspire all of us towards greater unity and resilience.
#OneTeamSG

 

[jw5]

HSK took a photo.

Heng Swee Keat​

21h ·
I took a photo of the Hunter's Moon — this year's brightest and closest supermoon. Did you see it?

 

[jw5]

HSK was glad to be back at the 15th edition of the FutureChina Global Forum (FCGF).

Heng Swee Keat​

·
Glad to be back at the 15th edition of the FutureChina Global Forum (FCGF).
At the suggestion of then-SM Lee Kuan Yew, FCGF was convened by Business China in 2010 to serve as a forum for the Singapore business community to better understand China. It has now grown into one of the largest international China-focused platforms. In this age of contestation, Business China can serve as a neutral, trusted platform to deepen dialogue and understanding, and achieve mutually beneficial growth and a better future for our peoples.
The theme of this year’s forum “Strengthening Collaborations in a Multi-polar World”, is a timely reminder for us to work together to realise Asia’s growth potential and enhance Asia’s linkages with the world. As economic competition across major economies rise, we should continue to realise complementarities to promote growth and uplift lives. Trade liberalisation and economic integration at the global and regional levels are integral. We must also build up our capabilities for the digital age and do this sustainability so as to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals to address the wicked problem of climate change.
To achieve this, structural reforms are necessary, including embracing innovation to develop new industry sectors, strengthening education and skills training, and building new international links. For each economy to thrive, it will need to build distinctive competitive niches, while cooperating with other economies to solve common challenges like climate change and pandemic risks. In this spirit, Singapore has undertaken our own adjustments as well, such as adopting Industry Transformation Maps, and investing in science technology and innovation. We invite like-minded partners like China to join us in these efforts, and learn together.
You can read my speech here: https://www.pmo.gov.sg/.../DPM-Heng-Swee-Keat-at...
I wish Business China continued growth in its partnerships, knowledge platforms, and networks in China!

 

[jw5]

HSK thanks the Jazz Association team, partners, sponsors and donors.

Heng Swee Keat​

·
8 years ago, a group of jazz-loving friends had a dream. They wanted to build Singapore into a city of jazz. Albert Chiu, Jeremy Monteiro, Susan Peh, and Edmund Lam took a leap of faith and founded today's Jazz Association - SG.
Yesterday, I attended their annual fundraising dinner. This year’s theme, “Love is Here to Stay – Gala of Love and Peace”, was inspired by George and Ira Gershwin’s timeless classic “Love is Here to Stay”.
Indeed, it was an evening filled with love, and in particular, the love for jazz. Music has the power to connect and unite. Heartened that the Jazz Association remains committed to promoting jazz in Singapore through their passion in music, while also contributing back to the community especially in youth development.
My thanks to the Jazz Association team, partners, sponsors and donors, for your contributions and commitment in promoting the spirit of jazz and uniting the jazz community.

 

[jw5]

HSK congratulates the Interventional Radiology (IR) community at Singapore General Hospital.

Heng Swee Keat​

·
Congratulations to the Interventional Radiology (IR) community at Singapore General Hospital on your 65th anniversary!
IR has revolutionised modern medicine by enabling minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment procedures, used in a wide variety of medical conditions from cancer therapies to opening blocked blood vessels.
When I had a stroke eight years ago, I was rushed to Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) and underwent an IR procedure that saved my life. Using x-ray guidance, metallic coils were inserted through a needle puncture into my brain artery to stop the bleeding that caused my stroke. This allowed me to make a full recovery with no surgical incisions or scars.
The progress made in IR since Dr Chow Khuen Wai introduced this technique in Singapore 65 years ago has been remarkable. Without Dr Chow’s work and that of the IR fraternity, the medical outcome of many patients, including myself, over the past few decades might have been very different.
I am heartened that the family of the late Dr Chow has decided to make a donation to set up the Chow Khuen Wai Interventional Radiology Research Fund, dedicated to advancing IR research in SGH and SingHealth.
I am also pleased that SingHealth is collaborating with international partners to launch the International Network of SingHealth and Partners for Interventional Radiology Education, or INSPIRE, to share knowledge and expertise and promote best practices across borders to elevate patient care with IR. By pooling our knowledge and resources, we can provide better care for all patients through new solutions and interventions.
Congratulations once again on the 65th anniversary of IR in SGH, and I wish all IR professionals every success as they research new innovations to improve treatments and enhance patient outcomes.

 

[jw5]

HSK thanks the National Gallery, patrons, sponsors and supporters.

Heng Swee Keat​

·
These paintings of olden Singapore brought back memories of life in Singapore in the 70s and 80s! They were painted by acclaimed artist and Cultural Medallion recipient Lim Tze Peng, who at 103 is still brimming with artistic spirit.
Mr Lim is known for his depictions of Singapore streetscapes in his unique art ink style, including Chinatown and the Singapore River. He picked up calligraphy at a young age before the Japanese Occupation, and went on to become a teacher and principal. Even then, he continued his love for the arts and honed his skills, before becoming a full-time artist after retirement.
The “Becoming Lim Tze Peng” exhibition has 3 interesting segments, tracing his artistic development over the years – from his earliest work as a teenager, to large scale paintings he did when he was 102! Mr Lim has been innovating throughout. His later works in Chinese calligraphy are bold and dynamic, and after his trip to Europe, he innovated with the strong strokes of Chinese paintings and the dynamic use of colours in western paintings.
I hope that our businesses and workers can take inspiration from Mr Lim that it is never too late to learn, to innovate, and to challenge ourselves to achieve mastery. Our best years are ahead of us!
When we chatted, he also told me that art keeps him active both physically and mentally, and there is not a day where he doesn't write or draw - a role model for lifelong learning and active ageing!
My thanks to the National Gallery, patrons, sponsors and supporters who supported this valuable exhibition! The exhibition will run from 25 Oct 2024 to 23 Mar 2025. I encourage all to visit, especially our students during the year-end long vacation! Find out more at: https://www.nationalgallery.sg/BecomingLimTzePeng

 

[jw5]

HSK tried out the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill.

Heng Swee Keat​

·
Tried out the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill with fellow stroke warrior, Gene. He regularly practises on it, combining these sessions with catching exercises to improve his motor skills and coordination.
This impressive equipment uses NASA’s Differential Air Pressure (DAP) technology to reduce the load on your joints while walking or running — an excellent tool for recovery, especially for stroke survivors like myself.
This is just one of the many innovative tools at Stroke Support Station (S3) that helps patients regain strength and mobility. The road to recovery after a stroke can be long and challenging. Take it one day at a time, one step at a time. With the support from friends, family and stroke community, it is possible to improve your quality of life and well-being.

 

[jw5]

HSK wishes all Happy Deepavali! இனிய தீபாவளி வாழ்த்துக்கள்!

Heng Swee Keat​

·
Happy Deepavali! இனிய தீபாவளி வாழ்த்துக்கள்!
Tried my hand at weaving a thoranam, a decorative ornament made of coconut leaves. Symbolising positivity and prosperity, they are often hung in homes, temples, and buildings during special occasions like Deepavali. Simply fold the leaves upwards and staple them together before decorating with some stickers.
To all our friends who are celebrating Deepavali, may the thoranam at your doors welcome happiness and peace into your homes during this Festival of Lights!

 

[jw5]

HSK was happy to be at the Best Workplaces in Singapore Awards by Great Place to Work Singapore.

Heng Swee Keat​

5h ·
Happy to be at the Best Workplaces in Singapore Awards by Great Place to Work Singapore as they celebrate their 10th anniversary this year!
50 companies were recognised as Best Workplaces in Singapore, including 6 “Legends” who have won the award consecutively for 5 or more years. They have done well as employers by placing their people at the heart of transformation by investing in upskilling, redesigning jobs and leveraging technology. Beyond that, they focus on employees’ holistic well-being and mental health, and promote a culture of open communication and empathy to help individuals feel connected and heard.
The expectations of a great workplace has shifted, especially after the COVID pandemic. Values such as leadership integrity, authentic care for employees, and collaborative decision-making are now increasingly valued. What remains clear is that employees who have a positive experience at work tend to perform better, and help their employers achieve success.
Congratulations once again to winners from across various sectors and industries, and kudos to Joni, Roland, Evelyn and the Great Place to Work team for driving workplace transformation for a decade!