The Singapore government has announced new measures to encourage couples to have children, including financial support totalling almost S$70,000 (US$55,048; £40,647) for each child by the age of 17.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong stated that the policy begins with a S$10,000 baby grant, alongside two separate S$5,000 grants for medical and educational expenses. Additional provisions include S$2,000 in "child credits" for children aged one to 16, reduced government-subsidised preschool fees, and increased parental leave.
These measures address Singapore's historically low birthrate, which currently stands at a record low of 0.87 for women of reproductive age. A recent YouGov survey found that one in four Singaporeans do not plan to have children.
The prime minister acknowledged concerns about the future children will inherit and the challenges of raising them. Some prospective parents, like construction coordinator Iqbar Hisham, find the new policy encouraging, particularly the childcare support.