Assessment of IPS Finding that Policy Language may Portray Citizens as Recipients of Government Generosity Rather Than Stakeholders

Parliamentary Question by Ms He Ting Ru:

To ask the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) what is the Ministry’s position on a finding by the Institute of Policy Studies in January 2026 that policy language may portray citizens as recipients of Government generosity rather than stakeholders; (b) what proportion of Government benefits are framed as tax-funded entitlements versus discretionary handouts; and (c) whether the Ministry will consider reframing its policy language to acknowledge citizens’ contributions.

Parliamentary Reply by Senior Minister of State for Finance, Mr Jeffrey Siow:

The IPS study suggested that government communications can do more to recognise the contributions of citizens, and affirm their role as stakeholders. MOF agrees and will continue to highlight this in our communications, as well as support initiatives that provide more opportunities for active citizen participation. At the same time, our communications must remain clear about the nature and intent of government support, including the benefits provided to Singaporeans across different stages of life. All support measures are funded by tax and other revenues. Many are permanent, structural schemes that provide sustained support. Others are deliberately time-bound, so that we can review their design, and ensure they remain relevant and effective. Only a small proportion of measures – about 5% in the FY2025 Budget – are one-off.