Grit and resilience will see Singapore through next phase: Minister
Singaporeans have shown their grit, adaptability and resilience during the two-month "circuit breaker" period.
And as Singapore prepares to reopen the economy, they will need to continue to show the same ingenuity and resourcefulness in this new phase, said National Development Minister Lawrence Wong.
In a national TV broadcast yesterday, he said: "In these difficult times, we have not despaired. We have not given up. Instead, adversity has brought out the best in us - both individually and collectively.
"We have found strength and confidence in one another. We have shown that we are capable of rising above ourselves and caring for others."
Mr Wong, who co-chairs the multi-ministry task force tackling the outbreak, said Singaporeans have also found "new and creative" ways of staying connected, for instance, through virtual meals, online classes and tuning in online to sermons on live streams.
DRAW STRENGTH
He said: "We may not be able to travel or have large gatherings anytime soon. But we are going on virtual tours, enjoying online concerts, and learning new skills through online classes.
"And many of us continue to draw strength from our faiths, thanks to churches, mosques and temples live-streaming their sermons and services to their followers."
Mr Wong, in his speech, said businesses, too, have been coming forward to help, donating masks and supplies to those in need, and contributing to front-line Covid-19 operations.
He said: "This is the Singapore spirit that gives us the confidence to press ahead, no matter how tough the odds. The road ahead is unpredictable, and countries everywhere are continuing to search for answers and solutions.
"There is no guaranteed formula for success. But it is our grit and resilience, our compassion and kindness, our cohesion and strength that will see us through this crisis of our generation."
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