Singapore, August 23 — Prime Minister Lawrence Wong addressed the renewal of Malay/Muslim office-holders and MPs during the 2026 National Day Rally, emphasizing their ongoing efforts. He highlighted younger members stepping into roles, including Minister of State for Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim and Senior Parliamentary Secretary Syed Harun Alhabsyi.
Both joined politics after the 2025 election, bringing private sector experience as a lawyer and psychiatrist respectively. They now work alongside Rahayu Mahzam, who has held the health and digital development portfolio since 2024. The current team is advancing initiatives like the Committee for Economic Resilience, led by MPs Wan Rizal Wan Zakariah and Saktiandi Supaat. This body focuses on equipping Malay/Muslim workers and businesses for economic shifts, incorporating community feedback.
PM Wong noted the program’s emphasis on skill development for youths in emerging sectors, reflecting broader efforts to strengthen community ties. Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad, who took over in July after Faishal Ibrahim’s resignation, is overseeing these efforts.
The expansion of the M3 initiative to M3+ has brought additional partners, with PM Wong stating, “When we work hand in hand, we can achieve more.” He cited the Santunan Emas program, a 2024 collaboration between religious and community groups, as an example of unity. The initiative, which supports seniors in Ang Mo Kio, will expand to Yishun, Sembawang, and Woodlands. Partnerships are also growing, such as between the Singapore Islamic Scholars and Religious Teachers Association and ASME.
This collaboration enables religious entrepreneurs to access business resources while leveraging cultural expertise. PM Wong underscored that Malay/Muslim Singaporeans are increasingly visible in public service, military, judiciary, and business roles, contributing to national progress while maintaining community roots.
Addressing concerns about economic pressures and jobs, PM Wong referenced the proverb “berat sama dipikul, ringan sama dijinjing,” stressing collective action. He affirmed the government’s commitment to collaborating with community leaders to prepare for future challenges, aiming to empower every Malay/Muslim member with confidence and opportunities.
