'This Is How Respect Is Earned': Harsh Goenka Commends Singapore PM; Here's Why

The video, recorded by a CNA journalist on a Scoot flight from Laos to Singapore, captured a smiling Lawrence Wong as he boarded the plane, waving to cheering and applauding passengers

Industrialist and Chairperson of the RPG Group, Harsh Goenka, recently praised Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong for flying on a low-cost airline rather than taking a private jet with a large entourage at taxpayers' expense. Goenka shared a video of Wong boarding a Scoot flight, where passengers applauded and cheered for him. Notably, he travelled in economy class with extra legroom.

"The PM of Singapore travels on official duty aboard a low-cost airline—on a normal scheduled flight, no frills, no national or private jet, and without a large entourage at the taxpayers’ expense. This is how respect is earned," Goenka wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday. 

The video, recorded by a CNA journalist on a Scoot flight from Laos to Singapore, captured a smiling Lawrence Wong as he boarded the plane, waving to cheering and applauding passengers in the front row. Reports indicate that he travelled in economy class with extra legroom. 

In addition to Harsh Goenka's praise, many social media users expressed their admiration for the Singapore Prime Minister, describing him as "humble," "down-to-earth," and an "incredible example" for choosing a low-cost carrier. One user noted that this decision reflected Wong's desire to connect with everyday people.

“That's true leadership! Setting an example by prioritising humility and efficiency over extravagance,” wrote one of the X users. Another added: “Actions reflect character, not status. Singapore's Prime Minister sets an example, flying economy on regular routes. No excess, no waste, just genuine leadership. This humility in action builds respect naturally, showcasing true integrity and earning public admiration effortlessly.”

Wong later shared a video on Facebook showing passengers on the flight waving at the camera, captioning it, "Back from Laos. Felt like home, once I got on the plane! Thanks everyone for the warm reception."

The 51-year-old Prime Minister had attended the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Laos, accompanied by Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan.