PUBLISHED ONAugust 23, 2026 10:58 AMUPDATEDAugust 23, 2026 2:10 PMBYSean LerSingaporeans and Singapore businesses could see more opportunities in the region if they pick up Malay and better appreciate its culture, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
He made this point in his Malay speech at the 2026 National Day Rally held at the ITE College Central on Sunday (Aug 23).
Referring to Kampong Glam, at where he officiated the reopening of the Malay Heritage Centre on April 25, PM Wong said that beyond the community's rich heritage, the place is special as it reminds Singaporeans of their close connections to the region.
"It is also a part of our shared history and heritage. We (Singapore) value these connections," he added.
Turning to how the Malay language is an "integral part" of Singapore's identity, PM Wong pointed out that it is the Republic's national language, the language of the national anthem, and used for commands in the Singapore Armed Forces.
And given the city state's location, it would be valuable for Singaporeans to learn Malay and better appreciate its culture, he said.
These connections are not only about Singapore's heritage, PM Wong explained.
They help Singapore strengthen its ties with neighbours in the region and can open up more opportunities for Singaporeans and businesses here, he said.
@asiaone In his National Day Rally speech, PM Lawrence Wong pointed out that given Singapore's geography, understanding the Malay language and culture can help strengthen ties with its neighbours, while opening up more opportunities for Singaporeans and businesses here. #sgnews #Singapore #NDR2026 #Businesses #Language #Culture #Malay ♬ original sound - AsiaOne
PM Wong cited Pondok Abang, a halal food manufacturer, founded by Abdul Rahman Yad Ali more than 30 years ago.
From selling curry puffs off the back of his motorcycle to factory workers in Tuas, Abdul Rahman opened his first hawker stall in 1990.
In 2012, Pondok Abang pivoted to manufacturing halal frozen food products.
Today, it also operates frozen marts.
Although the business is now managed by the next generation, Pondok Abang did not give up on traditional Malay cuisine, noting that such demand in the region is growing.
The business has since expanded into Brunei and Malaysia, with plans to further expand into neighbouring markets.
To help local businesses in such endeavours, the Singapore Islamic Scholars Religious Teachers Association and the Association of Small Medium Enterprises in May 2025 formalised a collaboration.
Through the initiative, Asatizah-led enterprises can now leverage advisory support, digital tools and business networks.
In return, businesses gain from the community’s cultural and language expertise, as they expand to regional markets.
PM Wong noted that these efforts are making a "significant difference", with more Malay/Muslim Singaporeans now making their mark across various sectors.
"They are contributing to Singapore’s progress, while remaining firmly rooted in their community and heritage.
"That’s exactly what we want to see – not just a strong Malay/Muslim community, but Malay/Muslim Singaporeans making bigger contributions to Singapore," he said.
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