Apart from focusing on the country’s safety, Singapore’s budget will also focus on enabling to create good jobs for workers, according to the Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat.

“At the same time, we have to look after the environment and quality of life in Singapore. So it is quite a comprehensive agenda,” he said.

According to Keat, the budget will pay attention to help companies boost up their capabilities in order to maintain their competitive edge. The key to remaining competitive in an ever-changing environment is to help employees learn new skills and upgrade themselves.

In light of the recent uncertain economic environment, Keat added, continuous transformation and innovative industrial practices will be crucial for Singapore to stay on the path of growth.

Ahead of his impending budget announcement on Feb. 18, the finance minister joined on-duty workers at PSA’s Pasir Panjang Terminal to celebrate the Chinese New Year.

He underlined the importance of not only focusing on short-term job growth but also on making long-lasting changes to the economy which would have a positive impact on the long-term jobs growth.

Keat also added that he continues to remain upbeat about the Republic’s prospect in the upcoming years.