The Workers’ Party has spoken about ships and boats—arguing that, unlike ships, boats cannot withstand the storms. To that, I say: do not look down on the humble sampan.
Because it’s not the size of the vessel that determines success. It’s the skill of the captain at the helm. Even the mighty Titanic can sink in calm waters if it is poorly steered. So when we ask what truly keeps a boat afloat, the answer isn’t about its size or glamour—it’s about whose hands are on the wheel.
That’s why initiatives like SkillsFuture are so important. They are more than just government programmes. They are tools designed to equip, empower, and open doors for Singaporeans from all walks of life. They ensure that no matter the size or condition of the vessel we’re in, we have the capability to steer it with confidence through changing tides.
But let’s zoom out from our individual journeys for a moment. Because beyond our personal boats, there is one vessel that carries us all—and that is Singapore’s boat.
And make no mistake: Singapore’s boat is a sampan too. We are a small, nimble craft navigating open waters surrounded by massive cruise liners and cargo ships. We are not on a luxurious, carefree voyage with calm seas and predictable routes. Instead, we are a nation that depends on agility, foresight, and cooperation.
We rely on our fishing lines to secure our resources. We cast our nets wide to build partnerships, foster relationships, and weather the storms of global uncertainty. Within this modest sampan, we innovate. We harness technology. We push boundaries and punch above our weight.
But the waters around us are turning rough. Tariffs are blowing in from every direction. Familiar signposts are disappearing. The path forward is no longer clear.
That’s why leadership matters. The captain must be capable. But more importantly—everyone in the sampan must row together. Because if the sampan sinks, we all go down with it.
As Aristotle Onassis once said, “We must free ourselves from the hope that the sea will ever rest. We must learn to sail in high winds.” And that is what we must do now.
We may not be able to stop the storms, but we can shape how we respond to them. We can choose unity. We can choose to row as one.
And only when we row as one—not only will Singapore’s sampan stay afloat, but so will the hopes and dreams of every one of us on board.
