Singapore’s Law Minister Tong: Rule Of Law Ensures Equity, Reflects Social Values

Law Minister Edwin Tong stated on May 13, 2026, that the rule of law serves as a framework for strengthening the social fabric of Singapore by ensuring that no individual or group is positioned above the legal system.

Speaking during a panel at the SGLaw200 Youth Forum, Tong explained that the rule of law provides the necessary foundation for social equity and stability.

Tong described the rule of law as:

“the basis on which we believe that no one is above the law, and so no segment of society will rise ahead or fall behind because of who we are”

Edwin Tong

The Law Minister further detailed the role of the state in managing the intersection of legal frameworks and community expectations. He noted that because the government sits in the middle of society and laws, it holds a responsibility to ensure that the laws of the land reflect the prevailing social values of the population.

To illustrate this connection between social values and legislation, Tong pointed to the legal distinctions made regarding harm caused to vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly. He stated that society considers such actions reprehensible, and the law reflects this value by imposing harsher punishments on offenders who target these vulnerable victims.

Tong participated in the panel discussion alongside Deputy Attorney-General Goh Yihan and High Court Judge Mohamed Faizal Mohamed Abdul Kadir.

The SGLaw200 Youth Forum also featured Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who addressed several intersections of law and national interest. Wong noted that the rise of artificial intelligence requires a rethinking of assumptions regarding legal responsibility.

Prime Minister Wong emphasized the importance of international law for small nations like Singapore, specifically highlighting that strong international sea laws are vital to the country’s national interests.