Signal Singapore PM Wong flags 'major review' of family support as fertility rate hits record low 0.87

Summary

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced in his 2026-08-08 National Day message a 'major review' of how the country supports families. The announcement comes as Singapore's resident total fertility rate fell to a record low of 0.87 in 2025. An inter-ministry Marriage and Parenthood Reset Workgroup, formed in April 2026, has been examining childcare costs, access to affordable infant and childcare, and other ways to ease pressure on families. Wong said family life is under strain worldwide, citing rising expectations for children combined with a 'sandwich generation' burden of caring for aging parents while balancing work. Detailed policy measures are due to be unveiled at the National Day Rally on 2026-08-23.