jul11 2023
DPM Wong believes that societal mindsets are gradually changing particularly among younger me.
He highlighted that women are often still stereotypically assigned the role of primary caregivers, and he hopes that the upcoming doubling of paid paternity leave starting next year will encourage fathers to become more involved in the early stages of child-rearing. However, DPM Wong emphasized that employers must also play their part in supporting this change.
While the increase in paternity leave will initially be voluntary, the government intends to make it mandatory in the future.
DPM Wong urged employers to take action proactively and not wait for compulsion from the government. He encouraged them to start offering additional paternity leave as soon as possible. DPM Wong, who also serves as Finance Minister, pointed out that when employees see that their employers provide good benefits and support, they are more likely to be satisfied and remain loyal.
In addition to addressing paternity leave, DPM Wong highlighted the ongoing work needed to advance women’s development and ensure their active participation in creating a more inclusive Singapore.
Last year, he launched the Forward Singapore initiative to gather Singaporeans’ views on the country’s future direction. DPM Wong commended the contributions of the PAP Women’s Wing to these conversations.
During the event, DPM Wong, together with Sim Ann, chairwoman of the PAP Women’s Wing, and Sun Xueling, organizing chairperson, unveiled the “Forward SG – Women in Action” digital collection. This collection showcases 24 projects led by women Members of Parliament, demonstrating their collaboration with activists and communities to support various causes and segments of society.
The initiatives include programs such as the “Each Step Matters Programme” in MacPherson, which assists stay-at-home moms and retired women in transitioning back to the workforce with the help of life skills and career coaches.
The “Take Action for Sustainability” campaign, initiated by the Serangoon PAP Branch, aims to promote sustainable living by providing residents with practical tips.
The NTUC’s Women Supporting Women Mentorship Programme involves women leaders from the PAP Women’s Wing serving as mentors and role models for young women.
Sim Ann encouraged both men and women to support the cause of gender equality and emphasized the need for strong partnerships to drive progress.
Sim Ann also announced plans to engage with Women’s Wing branches across five districts to gather ideas and formulate plans for the future.
The event concluded with DPM Wong, Sim Ann, and Sun Xueling posing for a photo alongside a display showcasing the outreach initiatives driven by women MPs, reflecting their commitment to effect positive change in Singapore.
