It’s the time of year again. The Finance Minister has delivered the Budget for 2025, and while many of us eagerly await to hear how the government plans to address the challenges we face, I can’t help but feel disheartened by the response from some Singaporeans. It seems that no matter how much is done for us, there’s always a chorus of complaints, a barrage of gripes, and an unwillingness to see the bigger picture.
Let me make this clear: I am grateful for what we have as a country, and I firmly believe we could all use a little more appreciation.
A Budget to Be Proud Of
Let’s take a step back and look at what was actually announced in the Budget. It’s easy to focus on the things we don’t like – the new taxes, the higher costs of living, the adjustments that may be uncomfortable. But if we zoom out and consider what was done for us, it’s hard to deny that the 2025 Budget includes a lot of positives.
There’s a multi-billion-dollar commitment to healthcare and social support. The government is pouring resources into keeping our healthcare system world-class and our social safety nets strong, ensuring that no one is left behind. There’s increased funding for education, making sure our future generations are equipped with the skills they need to thrive. And there are plans to help businesses innovate and stay competitive in an increasingly digital world. It’s a roadmap that prioritizes both the immediate needs of citizens and the long-term stability of the nation.
Yet, what’s been the response from some of us? We’ve seen frustration. We’ve heard complaints about rising costs and fears about an uncertain future. But here’s the thing: not everything can be solved instantly. We’re navigating a global economic landscape that’s volatile, and while we may not agree with every decision, we have to acknowledge that the government is doing its best to balance growth with sustainability.
The Culture of Complaining
I get it. It’s easy to complain. It’s human nature to focus on what’s not going right and to feel frustrated when things don’t go according to plan. But let’s be real here – we live in one of the most prosperous countries in the world. The opportunities we have in Singapore are immense. We have world-class infrastructure, a safe environment, a strong education system, and a highly skilled workforce.
But instead of acknowledging how lucky we are to live in this city-state, there seems to be an underlying current of entitlement in some of the reactions to Budget 2025. The truth is, we’ve grown accustomed to progress, and instead of celebrating it, we’ve come to expect it as our birthright. We need to shift our mindset.
Let’s Cultivate Gratitude
Imagine if more of us paused to think about how much we have compared to others around the world. In many countries, people struggle to access basic healthcare, decent education, or even clean drinking water. Yet here we are in Singapore, often complaining about the smallest inconveniences.
It’s easy to forget that we are incredibly fortunate. Budget 2025 might not have addressed everything to our liking, but it’s not a reason to lose sight of how far we’ve come. Our economic stability, social mobility, and resilience as a nation didn’t just happen overnight. It’s the result of decades of hard work, strategic planning, and a collective effort from both the government and its citizens.
I truly believe that if we focus more on gratitude, we can begin to see the positives in what’s been done. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t voice concerns or offer constructive feedback – that’s part of a healthy democracy. But let’s do so with a sense of understanding that the solutions to some of our challenges aren’t simple or immediate.
A Call to Action
As Singaporeans, we can do better. We can choose to be more patient, more understanding, and more grateful for what we have. Let’s take a moment to recognize the incredible benefits that come with living in this city. Let’s acknowledge the policies, the infrastructure, and the people that have gotten us this far. Let’s be part of the solution, not just the problem.
In the end, Budget 2025 is a reflection of our nation’s direction, and while it’s okay to disagree, it’s also important to show appreciation for the bigger picture. So, the next time you’re tempted to complain, ask yourself: “What am I truly grateful for?” Let’s start there, and see how much more we can achieve as a nation, together.
