Pope Francis calls on Singapore to give 'special attention' to poor and elderly in state address

Pope Francis has commended Singapore for its rapid development, but called for "special attention" to be given to the most vulnerable in society.

In his speech at the National University of Singapore's University Cultural Centre on Thursday (Sept 12), the 87-year-old pontiff noted the Republic's "growth and resilience".

"Those arriving here for the first time cannot fail to be impressed by the mass of ultra-modern skyscrapers that seem to rise from the sea," he said in Italian.

Speaking to an audience which included members from social welfare groups and religious organisations, the Pope also commended the various policies to improve quality of life here, and in particular the most vulnerable.

These include through public housing measures, the "high quality" education and an "efficient" healthcare system.

The Pope said: "I hope that special attention will be paid to the poor and the elderly, whose labours have laid the foundations for the Singapore we see today.

"As well as protecting the dignity of migrant workers. [They] contribute a great deal to society and should be guaranteed a fair wage."

Describing Singapore as a mosaic of ethnicities, cultures and religions living together in harmony, the Pope also said that inclusiveness is facilitated by the impartiality of authorities who engage in constructive dialogue with all.

Mutual respect, co-operation, dialogue and the freedom to exercise one's beliefs within the conflicts of the law allow for Singapore's success and stability, he added.

"They are necessary for avoiding conflict and chaos, and provide instead for a balanced and sustainable development."

Some of the 800 guests spotted in the audience include Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, and former presidents Halimah Yacob and Tony Tan. 

Prior to the Pope's address, President Tharman also spoke to the attendees, referring to Pope Francis as an "impassioned global voice against war". 

He added that the pontiff's consistent call for promoting dialogue and harmony between different groups and faiths is something that "resonates with Singaporeans". 

"We are a multi-racial, multi-religious and multicultural society... For us, solidarity and harmony have therefore been at the core - and will remain core - features in our national development," said President Tharman. 

Pope's speech 'inspiring'

Several guests told AsiaOne that they found the Pope's speech "inspiring", and a timely reminder of their goals of promoting inter-religious harmony.

President of the Inter-Religious Organisation Gurmit Singh said that he is amazed that the Pope, who has suffered increasing health problems in recent years, is willing to travel around the world to spread peace and harmony.

Singapore is the last leg of the pontiff's gruelling 12-day trip in the Asia-Pacific region. He has since visited Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste.

Singh said: "Promoting racial and religious harmony is what we have been doing already, and it reassures us that we are going down the correct path.

"I'm not a Catholic, so it would be nice if other faith leaders like [the Pope] can go around the world and spread the message that peace can happen."

Hazlina Halim, president of Singapore Muslim Women's Association, was particularly moved by the Pope praying for spiritual help for members of the government and civil society to "respond to the needs and expectations of young people".

"I found that really beautiful," said Halim, whose non-profit organisation provides family services, student care and early childhood education for women and families.

"It's also a reminder of what we do - to uplift the vulnerable amongst us."

ALSO READ: 'Viva il Papa': Over 1,000 people turn up for arrival of Pope Francis in Singapore

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chingshijie@asiaone.com