PM Lawrence Wong addresses concerns over Budget 2025 and the decision to issue SG60 vouchers

Singapore’s Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Lawrence Wong, has clarified that the SG60 vouchers will be distributed instead of cash due to the overwhelmingly positive response to previous Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers. In a video statement on February 25, PM Wong addressed public concerns regarding Budget 2025, emphasizing that the government’s financial management has allowed for these support measures. The SG60 vouchers, set to be disbursed in July, will be similar to CDC vouchers and can be used at participating businesses.

The Singaporean government has announced that eligible citizens will receive SG60 vouchers instead of direct cash payments. PM Lawrence Wong stated that this decision was made based on the successful implementation of CDC vouchers in previous years. The move is intended to support not only citizens facing cost-of-living challenges but also small businesses and hawkers. Under this initiative, Singaporeans aged 21 and above will receive between S$600 and S$800 in vouchers starting in July, with priority given to seniors.

During a Facebook Q&A session, PM Wong reiterated that Budget 2025 includes other direct cash support measures, such as GST vouchers and payouts under the Assurance Package. However, the decision to use vouchers for SG60 benefits stems from their proven effectiveness in stimulating local businesses. “The response to CDC vouchers has been very positive. They not only help Singaporeans cope with the cost of living but also support heartland hawkers and merchants,” said PM Wong.

Budget 2025 and Its Election Timing

The introduction of the SG60 vouchers coincides with an election year, leading to speculation that Budget 2025 is an “election budget.” PM Wong dismissed these claims, stating that the government’s spending plan aligns with responsible financial management. “If the budget is seen as generous, it’s because we have managed our finances responsibly,” he explained. He further emphasized that only about 5% of the total budget is allocated to short-term cost-of-living relief measures, while the majority is invested in long-term programs like SkillsFuture and eldercare.

Long-Term Economic and Social Initiatives

Beyond short-term relief, Budget 2025 includes measures to strengthen the economy and Singapore’s social support system. The government is making investments to expand clean energy access and protect the nation’s coastlines against rising sea levels. “We are preparing for Singapore’s future, ensuring that we continue to provide sustainable support,” PM Wong added. The structural investments reflect the government’s commitment to maintaining Singapore’s economic resilience amid global uncertainties.

How to Check Eligibility for Support

PM Wong acknowledged that with multiple support schemes in place, it may be challenging for Singaporeans to keep track of their benefits. To address this, he encouraged citizens to use the SupportGoWhere website, which provides a personalized breakdown of available financial assistance. He assured the public that further questions from Members of Parliament would be addressed during his Budget round-up speech on February 28.

The government’s decision to issue SG60 vouchers instead of cash has drawn both praise and criticism. While vouchers ensure that financial aid supports both individuals and small businesses, some Singaporeans may prefer direct cash disbursements. However, PM Wong maintains that the decision is backed by data and positive public feedback from previous CDC voucher programs. Budget 2025 aims to balance immediate cost-of-living relief with long-term national development.

Sources: Mothership (2025), The Straits Times (2025)

Keywords: Singapore Budget, Lawrence Wong, SG60 Vouchers, CDC Vouchers, Cost Of Living