DPM Wong says leaders must have conviction to do what is necessary

DPM Wong says leaders must have conviction to do what is necessary
By Mustafa Shafawi, Channel NewsAsia Posted: 07 December 2009 1838 hrs

SINGAPORE : Deputy Prime Minister Wong Kan Seng has said leaders must have the conviction to do what is necessary, even if it may not win them political points.

He said that in a crisis, leaders may find that they have the platform and momentum to drive difficult reforms. But it becomes less easy to pursue and persist with tough reforms when the crisis is over and the economy is on the mend.

Businesses and employees would be reluctant to see the withdrawal of temporary support measures put in place during the downturn. They might be wary of moves to tighten credit and strengthen corporate governance.

In such a situation, leaders must have the conviction to push through what needs to be done, rather than what is politically expedient or populist.

Mr Wong said that to do so, they need to articulate the long-term vision for the country or organisation clearly, mobilise their stakeholders and steer them towards this vision. They cannot do this effectively if they lack credibility and lack the trust of those they lead.

Mr Wong, who is also Home Affairs Minister, was speaking at the fifth Asia Economic Summit on Monday.

The event brings together think tanks, business leaders and government officials from the region to discuss the strategic challenges Asia faces and the prospects ahead. - CNA/ms