Parliament reopens: Work with us to realise a better Singapore, says President Tony Tan

President Tony Tan Keng Yam, in a speech setting out the key priorities of the Government's second term, ended on an optimistic note and said the country's best years lie ahead.

President Tony Tan Keng Yam opened the second session of Singapore's 12th Parliament at 8.30pm on Friday. Here are some highlights of his address:

Parliament reopens: Populist measures will weaken Singapore

Rachel Au-Yong

But for Singapore, he urged politicians and citizens to continue to have vigorous debates on the challenges facing the country and to be prepared to take bold decisions for its future.

Parliament reopens: Technology and kindness are key for S'pore to be a "smart nation"

Rachel Au-Yong

Such a change will bring greener urban living, more transport options, better care for the elderly, public services that are more responsive and greater opportunities for citizen engagement.

Parliament reopens: CPF schemes for retirement will be "improved"

Tham Yuen-C

Among the Government's goals in its second term is to ensure that Singaporeans are adequately prepared for retirement, with enough savings to tide them through their golden years. The CPF schemes are meant to be a way to build up retirement funds.

Parliament reopens: Keep education pathway open to give people another shot at success

Rachel Au-Yong

He said: "Singapore must remain a nation of opportunities for all. Those who do not succeed at first should have a second chance, indeed, must always have the chance to try again."

Parliament reopens: New strategies for a "new way forward", says President Tony Tan

Tham Yuen-C

As Singapore prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence, the Government will adopt new strategies to address the concerns and aspirations of Singaporeans as it set out a "new way forward" for the nation.

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