PM Wong scrolls through TikTok, aware of nickname Voucher Wong
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong recently traded Parliament for the podcast studio, appearing on The Hop Pod to answer burning questions from Singaporeans on TikTok and Reddit.
Here are some highlights from the candid conversation:
What are your thoughts on being called "Voucher Wong"?
Well, I suppose people will make memes about the budget and about me. I saw one with me as God of Fortune too. I'm certainly not the God of Fortune, nor am I Voucher Wong.
On netizens who want to see PAP "lose a few GRCs"
If more people feel like that, and we lose more GRCs, then we may not be returned to power to govern the country. But that's what democracy is about. Singaporeans have the right to choose the party that will govern the country.
What does your TikTok For You Page look like?
Whatever pops up in the algorithm. A lot of people are watching what's happening in America. Every other day there's something new. Dogs sometimes appear, music and guitars appear, since those are my interests as well.
About singles struggling with housing affordability
Singles are a different issue. I know there's a demand to buy when you're younger, but we just don't have enough flats to build to accommodate even more singles. Our focus is stabilising the market for families first. We will consider reviewing policies for singles at a later stage.
How can young people achieve a better work-life balance?
PM Wong: Find work that's meaningful and fulfilling so it doesn't feel like an arms race. Also, make time for loved ones. I find time to go out into nature - that helps me - and I play guitar.
Were musicians really "non-essential" during the pandemic?
That list reflected the sentiments of people at that particular point in time. But arts and culture and music played a big part in helping people cope.
Any advice for young adults on navigating the challenges of adulting?
I understand that going through this phase can be overwhelming. View it as an adventure, learn from setbacks, and keep striving to improve. It's not just what you do in your 20s or in your 30s, but that you are always trying to improve and trying to do better. The government will be there to help you and walk this journey with you.