Given the high stakes of the next general election, the PAP can no longer ‘afford to remain in the shadows’: PM Wong

Mr Wong said he spends a lot of time attracting potential candidates but has found that most Singaporeans are “comfortable where they are”, as expected.

“They are very reluctant to change their lifestyle. Besides, why expose yourself to public attention and scrutiny?” he added.

“Often people say to me, ‘Let someone else do the job’… Or they might say, ‘Don’t worry, the PAP’s position is very strong; but you’ve just started, why are you in such a hurry, don’t rush.”

Of the current cabinet’s 19 ministers, more than half are aged 60 or older, Mr Wong said, noting that at 52 he is one of the youngest cabinet members.

The senior ministers on the team provide experience and wise counsel and will continue to serve for another five to 10 years, provided they are in good health, he added.

“But can I wait until they retire before bringing in new blood? Of course not. I have to start updating the team now.”

When recruiting new candidates, Mr Wong said it is “very difficult” to move them straight into a ministerial role as they need time to train.

That’s why it’s “so urgent” to find a fresh crop of younger candidates who could ultimately form Singapore’s next leadership team, he added.