总理表示，近年来许多人士和团体对本地华族语言、艺术和宗乡组织进行研究，反映我们对文化成果的自豪。新加坡华族不再是落叶归根，而是落地生根。

总理指出，政府这个财政年推出了许多援助配套，减轻国人生活费负担。以一个居住三方式组屋、育有两个孩子的低收入家庭为例，这个财政年援助总额可高达$3,700。

总理表示能理解大家的心情和顾虑，但不调高消费税是不负责任的。人民怕钱不够用，政府担心没有足够资源照顾低收入家庭，以及老年人的医药保健需求。

总理总结时说，这两年多我们沉着应战，社会已更有凝聚力、更加坚强，给我们更大的勇气和信念面对未来各种危机。有了这种迎难而上、同甘共苦的精神，这个小红点就能继续发光发亮，我们的子子孙孙也能拥有灿烂的未来。

PM Lee Hsien Loong is now delivering his English speech at the National Day Rally 2022. You can watch the speech live on the PMO YouTube channel here: youtu.be/ObScGfQuR3U

PM Lee: We have come a long way in our fight against COVID-19 and are now learning to live with the virus. Key to our success has been the high level of trust in our society. Trust amongst Singaporeans to do the right thing and to have each other’s back.

#NDR2022

PM Lee: In our national response against COVID-19, many went above and beyond. They include healthcare workers, public officers, private companies, NGOs, community groups, and countless individuals from all walks of life. The nation is grateful to all of you.

#NDR2022

PM Lee: Top of everyone’s minds is the cost of living. Even before the war in Ukraine, inflation was already becoming a problem, but the war has made things worse. The Govt is doing everything necessary to support SGporeans, especially middle & lower-income families.

#NDR2022

PM Lee: This financial year alone, a middle-income family with two young children, staying in a 4-room HDB flat, can expect an additional $2,200 in support from cash payouts, U-Save and S&CC rebates, CDC vouchers, and MediSave top-ups.

#NDR2022