Budget 2019 gives businesses extra fuel to last the transformation journey

FINANCE Minister Heng Swee Keat started on a happy note, reminding us that this is Singapore's bicentennial year. This would be followed later in the speech by some initiatives for society to positively mark this year.

However, he next emphasised the global political and economic currents of change - the centre of economic gravity moving towards Asia, rapid advances in technology, ageing populations and even a backlash against globalisation in some quarters.

There is a strong seam of optimism in opportunity for Singapore if it can build on growing the economic importance of South-east Asia and the inherent strengths of Singapore policy, diversity and society. We can move forward with confidence, grit and determination.