Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said employment for citizens will remain the government's top priority as the nation confronts global trade tensions and the rapid advance of AI.

Speaking at the annual National Day Rally to mark Singapore's 60th year, Wong pointed to the risks created by the US-China rivalry, renewed tariff policies under President Donald Trump, and the pressure technology places on workers.

In his first primary address since the May election, Wong emphasised the need to reinforce the trade-reliant economy, expand social safety nets and redevelop parts of the island.

He pledged to protect Singaporeans from external shocks by maintaining stability instead of pursuing risky shifts. 'Ultimately, our economic strategy is about jobs, jobs and jobs. That's our number one priority,' he said.

The government has introduced new welfare measures, including the country's first unemployment benefits and wider subsidies for food, utilities and education.

Wong also announced initiatives to help enterprises use AI more effectively, such as a job-matching platform and a government-backed traineeship programme for graduates.

Looking ahead, Wong said Singapore would draw up a new economic blueprint to secure its future in a world shaped by protectionism, climate challenges and changing energy needs.

After stronger-than-expected results in the first half of the year, the government recently raised its growth forecast for 2025 to between 1.5% and 2.5%.