Teenage pregnancy in Singapore is on the rise for the first time in nearly two decades.

According to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, 244 babies were born to teens aged 19 and below in 2024, a 7% increase from the year before.

This marks a notable reversal after nearly two decades of decline, where teen birth rates had steadily dropped from a high of over 850 in 2005.

What’s driving the rise of teenage pregnancy in Singapore? And what more could be done to support teen mothers?

On The Big Story, Hongbin Jeong spoke to Melisa Wong, Executive Director of Babes Pregnancy Crisis Support, to discuss the causes behind the recent uptick, the crucial role of parents, the gaps in support systems, and what more can be done to ensure no teen has to face pregnancy alone.