On Wednesday, the city-state of Singapore gets its fourth leader after two decades.
Who is the 4th Prime Minister?
Lawrence Wong swore to the office in a televised ceremony at the national palace, Istana.
Taking the oath, Wong said he was “deeply honored” and told Singaporeans that he and his new Cabinet would “do our utmost to serve you and our country.”
This is my promise to all Singaporeans: I will serve you with all my heart, and always strive to make tomorrow better than today.
My mission is clear: to continue defying the odds and to sustain this miracle called Singapore! pic.twitter.com/xhihzBVd8z
— Lawrence Wong (@LawrenceWongST) May 15, 2024
At the ceremony, Wong promised, “This is my promise to all Singaporeans. I will serve you with all my heart. I will never settle for the status quo. I will always seek better ways to make tomorrow better than today.”
The long-ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) has handpicked its new generation of politicians, called the 4G or fourth generation, to take over and steer the reins of the Asian financial hub in the current complex times. Wong is the first among the 4G to take over.
Wong succeeded 72-year-old Lee Hsien Loong, son of Lee Kuan Yew, the founder of modern Singapore. His arrival marks the end of a deep-rooted family dynasty in the city-state.
However, Lee will remain a senior minister in Wong’s cabinet, preserving the political clout of the long-serving Lee family.
About Wong
Wong, 51, is the first Singaporean leader born after independence in 1965.
He is a U.S.-trained economist and holds a master’s in public administration from Harvard University.
Without a privileged background, but with qualifications and work experience, he entered politics in the 2011 general election. 
Since then, he has held ministerial positions in four Singapore ministries and led both the national development and education ministries. He has also handled the defence, communications, culture, community and youth portfolios.
Before entering politics, Wong served as the principal private secretary to deputies. Trade and Industry Minister Gan Kim Yong was promoted to the then Prime Minister from 2005 to 2008.
Wong: The long-standing candidate
Wong has been a potential candidate for the position since 2002 and was designated as the PM-in-waiting in April 2022, owing to the disruption in the leadership transition process. His succession was planned earlier in 2020, but the pandemic disrupted the plan.
The newly-instated Prime Minister will work along with his two deputy prime ministers, Yong and Keat. “I have known both Kim Yong and Swee Keat for many years. I value their advice and counsel,” Wong said.
On Thursday, Wong shared glimpses of his first day at the Prime Minister’s office.
First day in my new role. Held my first Cabinet meeting this afternoon.
We have a full agenda ahead. Look forward to working with all of you to take Singapore forward in our next phase. pic.twitter.com/diTY45l4jD
— Lawrence Wong (@LawrenceWongST) May 16, 2024
