Singapore heads to the ballot box on May 3

Plus: Why foreign policy should matter to S'poreans | If this e-mail is not displayed properly, click here. FRIDAY, APR 18 2025 Jaime Ho Straits Times Editor The big story this week was the confirmation that Singapore will head to the polls on May 3. Ninety-seven MPs in 33 constituencies are to be elected. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said GE2025 is being called at a time when the world is experiencing profound changes. "At this critical juncture, Singaporeans should decide on the team to lead our nation, and to chart our way forward together," he said. The PAP launched its manifesto for GE2025 and introduced 32 new candidates who will be seeking a seat in Parliament. The main opposition Workers' Party also released its manifesto, with 125 policy proposals across five key areas, including measures addressing cost-of-living concerns. With the election fast approaching, opposition parties are increasing efforts to win over voters, even as some parties criticised the short runway to Polling Day. The election is happening amid a backdrop of unprecedented global uncertainties. PM Wong touched on an international order that he described as "fraying" during his S. Rajaratnam Lecture on April 16. He said that despite Singapore's limitations as a small state, it cannot afford to be a passive bystander in this evolving landscape and must actively shape its own destiny. Separately, he also made the case for why Singaporeans must be united on foreign policy. This video provides a short explainer on whether the US tariffs may have an impact on GE2025. Meanwhile, a newly formed Singapore Economic Resilience Taskforce seeks solutions to address immediate tariff shock for businesses and workers domestically, and plan for the future. As always, I leave you with more stories below. GE2025: S'poreans will go to the polls on May 3, Nomination Day on April 23 The Returning Officer for this election is Mr Han Kok Juan, director-general of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore. S'pore 'is not without agency', has built capabilities and is stronger: PM Wong It will respond to the global transition with agility and resolve and actively shape its own destiny, he added. S'pore's new task force to address immediate tariff shock, and also plan for the future It will help businesses and workers in Singapore to cope with the impact. Stocking up on shares? Tread carefully as Trump's tariff pause has yet to settle, experts warn His 90-day halt on reciprocal tariffs does not mean things are back to square one, they say. Abdullah Badawi: Mr Nice Guy leaves legacy of compassion, but failed to escape Mahathir's shadow Known for his calm demeanour, Pak Lah tried to steer Malaysia towards economic reforms and good governance. Rise of the Rah Rah seniors: S'pore's elderly cheerleaders show off their moves Age is no barrier for the 60 people who make up Singapore's first seniors' cheerleading squad. Rebuilding her jaw – and her life – one operation at a time Gladys Leow was turned away by six other surgeons due to the complexity of reconstructing her jaw. Why do my aches and pains get worse when it rains? Some people may be more sensitive to air pressure, but the research is inconclusive. For your weekend: Cat Bite Club and Manhattan named in The Pinnacle Guide to the world's top bars Sunda Festival, Wu Bai and China Blue, Tokyo Square at International Jazz Day concert Sign up for more free newsletters from The Straits Times here. Manage subscription here.