Ahmad Mohd Magad
Singapore
“The participants were proudly spoilt and present their national attires, the mainland Chinese would tell stories about the differences in their culture and practices from ours and the Indians would cook their best sumptuous dishes for us.”
“Sir, anecdotal data suggest that there is an increasing number of families who have sold their flats twice but are unable to afford another flat from the open market due to cash flow or other financial problems. There are also others, for one reason or another, who are no longer eligible to purchase another subsidised flat.”
“I would also like to know whether HDB could process applications for sales of balance flats faster as feedback received suggests that applicants are frustrated by the long waiting time and the uncertainty of whether or not they are going to get their flats allocated. Income ceiling for HDB flats”
“Furthermore, for single mothers who are working, many of them are possibly unaware of the childcare schemes that they can make use of. I hope that MCYS, with the cooperation of Malay/Muslim organisations, can spread the message about the choices available to fulfil this need.”
“Many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing industries face challenges in sending their workers for training and skills upgrading.”
“Sir, 2009 also saw quite a significant shrinkage in maritime activities in Singapore. With the economy on the mend, could the Minister provide an update of MOT's efforts to prepare and capitalise on the economic upturn and enhance Singapore's position as a global maritime hub?”
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Every one of 470 lines we hold for Ahmad Mohd Magad, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 9 of 10.
“Sir, the subject of tripartite partnership was discussed at length last year when the Nominated Member, Mr Cyrille Tan, moved a motion in this House for the Government to recognise tripartism as a key competitive advantage for Singapore. The Minister for Manpower, Dr Lee Boon Yang, has also just touched on it a moment ago. Our unique tripartite setting is indeed the envy of many countries and has worked marvellously for us. However, in the wake of constant change and an increasingly competitive business environment, new situations will evolve which will continue to test the bond of the tripartite partners. One that has to be borne in mind is that businesses today, large and small alike, are constantly challenged to deal with the flood of information, knowledge and technology in all forms. Unlike traditional raw materials, knowledge usually is not coded, audited or stacked in storerooms or warehouses for workers to use as needed. It comes in various formats, scattered and is easy to lose. To make knowledge manageable like raw materials, companies need to capture and share knowledge that is in their workers' heads and residing in their computers. Competitive advantage is derived when companies are able to effectively turn these into assets that can be leveraged and into profitable products or services. In an information and knowledge-based economy, this is a key ingredient of business success. Companies that manage knowledge must have the ability not only to attract the young and the new breed of knowledge workers, but must also be able to retain them. Such workers have the competency to help them strategise, analyse markets and, more importantly, provide training.”
“In spite of strenuous efforts by the Government to liberalise and make the Local Enterprise Finance Scheme (LEFS) more accessible, many local SMEs feel that the eligibility criteria of the scheme are still too stringent. They felt that they are completely at the mercy of participating financial institutions (PFIs) when it comes to evaluation of their participation eligibility under the LEFS scheme. Many felt that the financial crisis has made PFIs more cautious in lending to local enterprises in spite of the extension of risk sharing to cover higher loan quantum. Sir, I fully agree that the LEFS scheme should not support fully hopeless cases. But I am concerned about borderline but worthy cases with long term growth prospects which may be turned away for assistance and therefore become victims of the economic crisis. Their demise will also result in more job losses. I would like to suggest that an appeal channel be created for such cases, at least temporary, during the current period of recession and financial crisis. The Appeal Board should comprise members from the participating financial institutions and the Singapore Productivity and Standards Board to evaluate borderline and deserving cases for financial assistance eligibility under LEFS. The Appeal Board could possibly also play an extended and advisory role by facilitating cooperation or even mergers between SMEs or similar industries for shared resources, for synergy and for economies of scale, wherever feasible. 4.45 pm”
“Some of the criteria I would like to suggest for technopreneur PLEs are the consideration for (1) companies staffed with resilient people with creative ideas in product design and a strong determination to succeed and make it big; (2) companies with specialised and unique core competencies and capabilities in process development, manufacturing technology or research and development; and (3) companies with dynamic and forward-looking management with very strong time-to-market orientation to react to and serve international market demands. Can I move on to the next cut, Sir?”
“Sir, I am delighted that the Government aims to produce a pool of 100 Promising Local Enterprises (PLEs) with a turnover of $100 million each by the year 2005. But, Sir, six to seven years is a short time and therefore it requires strong effort and support from the Government to make this happen. The goal is further compounded by the fact that growth in the foreseeable two to three years is expected to be slow. Successful nurturing, such as a pool of well-managed and world-class companies with capabilities to compete globally, will contribute towards more sustainable economic growth while decreasing our dependence on multinational companies in the longer term. Sir, it appears that there is no clear information or guideline on the criteria employed to designate and identify PLEs and I therefore assume that this is probably based on attainment of a certain level of revenue and profitability by the SMEs. While this is a good starting point, I think it is important also that the criteria be broadened to include smaller companies which demonstrate creative and innovative elements with a strong drive to succeed in their business and not just be solely driven by financial performance yardsticks. Such companies are likely to be run by technopreneurs with products featuring new technology and innovations. Not all will make it big, but if we are in earnest about promoting technopreneurship and creating a climate conducive to the sprouting of knowledge-based industries, as DPM Tony Tan has said, then the Government should exercise more flexibility in assisting and incentivising such risky ventures.”
“(5) Review and redesign tax laws and incentive programmes to promote and encourage foreign investments and capital infusion into our SMEs. (6) Encourage the spirit of continuous value creation among SMEs to stay competitive in the longer term. This entails the acquisition and employment of the latest technology, equipment and information technology to enable them to effectively improve products and service quality and manage their supply change. (7) Conduct regular training to enable our SMEs to confidently connect with the globalised world to accelerate their growth.”
“Sir, with more than 92,000 local SMEs employing 583,000 workers or 52% of the workforce, SMEs undoubtedly represent an integral part of the Singapore economy. The phenomenal changes afflicting the regional and global economy, coupled with the onset of the financial crisis in mid-1997, are having profound implications in the manner how our SMEs conduct their business. 4.30 pm Sir, I believe the timing should be appropriate now to undertake a critical review and revamp of the SME Masterplan conceptualised about 10 years ago to accommodate the multitude of changes in the local and global business environment within which our SMEs operate. We must ensure that our SMEs are able to grow and thrive in an increasingly complex environment. Short and long term strategies need to be reviewed to ensure the survival ability at a time when we are actively pursuing a knowledge-based economy. I suggest the incorporation of the following, among others, as and when a review of the SME Masterplan is undertaken: (1) Create an enterprise restructuring scheme aimed at facilitating and clustering of SMEs in specific industries to make them more competitive. (2) Promote banding together of SMEs to reduce overheads and operating cost. Such business alliances will also enable our SMEs to share knowledge, expertise and experiences and encourage resource sharing among them in the international market development efforts and venturing overseas. (3) Expand the network of participating financial institutions (PFIs) in the LEFS scheme so that risk sharing is spread to a wider network of participants. (4) Facilitate the matching of venture capital with promising and innovative SMEs to enable them to grow faster.”
“While the six key features supporting the concept of a school of life-long learning announced by the Minister are well conceptualised, I have one key concern, and this is the ability to reach out to older workers, particularly those with only primary and lower secondary education to embrace this concept. I believe it will require the continuous combined efforts of the Government, unions and employers to persuade this group of workers to upgrade themselves, so that they can remain relevant for the remaining balance of their economic life. Self-help groups and grassroots organisations could also play a meaningful role to assist the tripartite parties in this endeavour. I would also like to suggest that for greater effectiveness, life-long learning centres be brought to the HDB heartlands where reach-out can be more extensive. In conclusion, Sir, I support the Government's emphasis on development expenditure targeted at long-term benefits in this Budget. However, I wish to note the need for us to monitor and strike a fine balance between managing the economic crisis and the push towards a KBE as there will be individuals as well as businesses who will become victims of the crisis to whom help needs to be given to prevent them from losing hope. On that note, Sir, I support the financial policy laid down by the Minister for Finance.”
“I am happy to note that the Economic Development Board is setting aside funds to co-invest in Promising Local Enterprises to provide them with management expertise and capital infusion needed to grow their businesses. On the other side of it, we must not forget the smaller businesses with big ideas which also need cultivation. The move towards revising bankruptcy laws to provide businesses which failed the first time around a second chance, as Mr Sin Boon Ann, Member for Tampines GRC has said, and the set up of a high level committee to promote technopreneurship chaired by DPM Tony Tan, are all encouraging steps towards evolving a vibrant technopreneurship hub for Singapore. However, all these efforts could come to nought if we move too slowly. What is important to bear in mind is that even the best of ideas needs seed capital to get moving. Venture capital should be encouraged to focus on promising business dreams and help turn them into realities. The Government could assist by encouraging the pooling of start-up funds by individuals and SMEs to fund promising ventures or co-share in small loans to provide seed money for businesses which are risky but innovative. In a recession where jobs are less plentiful, this is the best time to arrest the risk-averse mentality and encourage such ventures. Sir, allow me now to make a point on life-long learning which is also tied to KBE. I am thrilled with Dr Lee Boon Yang, the Minister for Manpower's recent announcement of Manpower 21 which addresses the strategy formulation for the development of a globally competitive workforce aimed at driving a knowledge-based economy.”
“While the SRP programmes are aimed at preparing our workforce to remain employable in the changing employment and economic landscape, managers and professionals too need to upgrade their academic and professional knowledge to keep up. Doing this through specialised or post-graduate courses can be very costly and can run into tens of thousands of dollars. I feel that Government could have done more in allowing a higher amount than the revised $2,500 in tax deduction for course fees to encourage professional adults to improve their skills and knowledge. Sir, allow me to now turn to the subject of technopreneurship. The Government's recent step to support and promote technopreneurship is consistent with our KBE positioning. We need to nurture home-bred SMEs so that they can grow into world class companies capable of competing globally. We need to create more Sim Wong Hoos and diversify our economy so that we can become less dependent on multi-national companies (MNCs). While MNCs have played a key role in providing foreign direct investments (FDIs), create jobs and significantly contributed to our economic growth, we must bear in mind that most of these investments are mobile and can be quite easily relocated. This exposes us to economic vulnerability. With an increasingly educated workforce, we are in a better position now to encourage more sophisticated entrepreneurship to decrease our reliance on MNCs. Taiwan supposedly has been able to escape the worst of the financial turmoil because of its government's ability to create the conditions in which SMEs thrive.”
“Sir, I would urge the Government and the media to embark on another phase of public education to clearly explain, if necessary, in simple and caricature form of what a KBE is all about so that businesses and individuals alike can properly execute their roles in successfully transforming our economy into a KBE. My next point is the impact of KBE on unemployment. As we push ahead to transform Singapore into a KBE, it is inevitable that some degree of structural unemployment will result. Even if our present recessionary economy is on the track of recovery, I still feel that structural unemployment is unavoidable. We therefore need to do everything within our means, at least to minimise this effect. I am happy that substantial amounts of funds have been set aside through major programmes, such as the Skills Redevelopment Programme, to press on with knowledge and skills upgrading to tackle this problem. Here, I think there will always be people who would adopt a wait-and-see attitude in the hope that they would get back their old jobs once the economy recovers. The fact is that with our stepped up effort to attract and create higher value-added jobs and activities, the old jobs these people have would have disappeared forever and therefore these people, especially the old and the lower skilled ones, will continue to remain unemployed. This group of people, therefore, needs to be continually warned of the danger of becoming irrelevant to the economy and remaining indefinitely unemployed if they do not take heed of the repeated calls to upgrade themselves. The NTUC and self-help groups and training providers could help in propagating such information.”
“With the world fast changing from an industrial based economy to a knowledge-driven one, and with Singapore by and large already plugged to the global economy, we are now exposed to increasingly aggressive competition and challenges from every corner of the globe. To stay ahead of the pack, we need to quickly learn and master new and emerging knowledge and technologies and creatively harness this into products and services demanded by the world. While I am in full support of the host of programmes we already have and are putting in place to proceed in this direction, I do have some concerns. First, although much has been said about the important need for us to transit into a KBE to stay ahead, I am not convinced that the majority of businesses, especially smaller ones, and also a large pool of individuals, know what a KBE entails. Many are still confused, with the majority associating a KBE with IT and feel that as long as they are competent in using computers, they are therefore already doing their part in KBE. While information technology (IT) is the key enabler for the KBE, a KBE itself is much more than that. It is primarily about unleashing and optimally employing knowledge that resides in people's heads or captured in IT systems and processes, and then tapping and applying this to work, or economic activities which, in turn, contribute to the nation's competitiveness, GDP and economic growth. It is not confined to certain sectors of the economy only, but permeates the entire economy.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of the Budget Statement for the financial year 1999-2000. This year's Budget is also a difficult one. For the first time in more than a decade, the Government is presenting an unprecedented budget deficit of $5.1 billion and, more importantly, it is not letting off on spending aimed at investing in the future. For the first time in more than a decade, we are also in a recession, which is primarily attributable to the financial crisis which afflicted the region since mid-1997. At this juncture, a heavy cloud of uncertainty continues to hover in the horizon with Japan yet struggling to nurse themselves out of their prolonged economic downturn and, more so, with the economic, political and social situation in Indonesia yet unresolved. As the Finance Minister, Dr Richard Hu, has said, it is very difficult to predict the future and how long the current recession is expected to last. As a consolation, I am at least relieved that the Finance Minister has indicated that the Government might introduce yet another package of off-Budget measures in due course should the economy take a turn for the worse. Sir, as earlier speakers have acknowledged, our business and industry groups are generally satisfied with the Budget as the majority of them feel that they are beginning to benefit from the host of cost-cutting measures introduced in November last year. Time is needed to allow the package to show its effect. I would like to take issue on our vision to develop into a globally competitive knowledge-based economy (KBE).”
“Sir, is there a large number of withdrawals in the upcoming haj as a result of the economic crisis?”
“Sir, I would like to ask the Minister whether GSAs have not been granted approval to date, as a result of having breached MUIS's guidelines or standards and, if so, how many over the past few years.”
“This includes, as I have mentioned earlier on, land pricing and rental regulations, a major business cost component, port, utilities and communication charges. Ways must also be found to further refine our flexible wage and compensation system to prevent the need for the CPF mechanism from being continually relied upon in the future to adjust cost and address competitiveness issues. The unusually long growth period in Asia, including here in Singapore, has made us forgotten that crises, bubbles and crashes are an inevitable part of economic business cycles. We should now brace ourselves to be better prepared for future ups and downs. Sir, having an efficient competitiveness barometer will go a long way in regularly checking where we stand in comparison to regional as well as industrialised and developed countries. Such indicators will enable prompt regulatory actions to be taken that will enable us to sustain our competitiveness on a real time basis and, hopefully, do away with the need for off-Budget measures and jolting the lives of Singaporeans with CPF and wage cuts. Such an approach will increase Singapore's and the business community's resilience in weathering the current and future storms. Sir, I support the motion.”
“A reduction of 30-50% will go a long way in helping struggling dual income families affected by the CPF and wage cuts, but yet could not do away with the services of a maid to look after their children and/or aged. For businesses that are doing well and are benefiting positively from the cost reduction exercise, they should also shoulder some social responsibility in these tough economic times to correspondingly lower their product prices or service charges to help cushion the impact of wage cuts taken by the people. If the overall intention is to bring wages down to 1994 level, it is imperative that every constituent of the land, ie, the Government, the corporate citizens and the people, do their collective part to also bring down our cost of living as well as we can to 1994 standard. Only then will some form of equilibrium be achieved. Sir, in conclusion, allow me to applaud the CSC for their effort and boldness in making several important recommendations, both for the short and long term which, I believe, will have far-reaching implications for Singapore when implemented. Looking on the horizon, it is my hope to see the Government put in place a regular ongoing competitiveness monitoring and benchmarking mechanism to prevent us as far as possible from again being caught off guard. While it is fair to note that the currency crisis leading to significant depreciation of regional currencies, which is also a major cause of the erosion of our competitiveness was hard to predict, there were many tell tale signs pointing to the escalating cost of doing business in Singapore, which the Government and statutory boards have influence in moderating without having to undermine the free market mechanism.”
“However, anxieties are still abound, especially the effect of these cost-cutting measures in the ability to continue servicing their mortgage loans. While the Government has said that it will help HDB dwellers, nothing appears to be in store for the lower middle income earners who, especially over the last two years, have upgraded to private properties. Some of them have lost their jobs as a result of the crisis. As an interim measure, I would like to propose that the Government consider the relaxation of CPF usage to allow for pooling of CPF resources among immediate family members to help those in trouble tide over their mortgage repayments during the crisis period. Working parents, children or siblings could assist the family member or members in trouble by temporarily allowing them usage of their CPF savings to pay for the monthly mortgage payments subject to certain regulations. Once the troubled family member becomes gainfully employed and overcomes his problem, the assistance should cease and the amount borrowed should be returned back progressively to the lenders. Savings in the Special Account of the CPF should also be temporarily freed up for such purposes and should similarly be returned upon employment stability and recovery of the economy. As a regulatory measure to assist troubled first-time private property purchasers, the Government, through perhaps the Monetary Authority of Singapore, could assist in pacing financial institutions involved in lending money for such purposes to help them reschedule loan repayments wherever feasible. HDB policy and guidelines employed to assist HDB flatowners could be used as a basis to regulate this. The Ministry of Manpower should also seriously consider the temporary reduction of the domestic worker levy.”
“This strongly supports the argument for further tax rebates to stimulate the already weak demand, as echoed by many MPs earlier. A temporary suspension of GST on essential goods and supplies such as clothing and food will also go a long way in not only enhancing demand but also help alleviate the burden of the people affected by wage and CPF cuts. Such tax exemptions on the essential goods are common in many states of the USA to dampen the cost of living impact on the working class. Retailers are also hopeful of rental reductions relative to the fall in the retail sales. They are heavily counting on the Singapore Tourism Board, working doubly hard to boost visitor arrivals through more active tourist promotions, especially in countries not affected by recession such as the European countries, the United States, China, Taiwan and perhaps India. They also felt that bringing more exhibitions and conventions and staging world-class events such as the performing arts, musical and sports events will not only enhance Singapore's competitiveness but also help position Singapore as the Broadway of ASEAN, if not Asia. We have the world-class infrastructure to support this objective. Let me now turn to the social concerns. Singaporeans deserve special salute for having shown understanding and willingness to move ahead with the CPF and wage cuts. The coordinated efforts by the Government and the unions to explain the important need for immediate business cost reductions, the rationale behind the need for CPF and wage cost cuts and the prospect of massive job losses if these measures are not undertaken, have generally gone down well with the working populace.”
“While I fully subscribe to the fact that the scheme should not support clearly hopeless cases, I am concerned about borderline cases which may become victims of the crisis if not appropriately helped. There should be an appeal channel for such cases. I would like to suggest the formation of a Committee comprising members from the Singapore Productivity and Standards Board and banks to review borderline but worthy cases in deciding financial assistance eligibility for such cases. ERP charges for business vehicles was also a hot topic when the GPC for Finance and Trade and Industry, of which I am a member, met with various business groups. Many strongly felt that ERP charges for goods vehicles (pick-up trucks, lorries and others) used for purely business reasons should be temporarily exempted from ERP charges during the current economic downturn. Most of such vehicles make multiple entries into the CBD and the ERP charges certainly add up to business costs. Suspending such charges will certainly help at a time when every dollar saved contributes to the lowering of business costs. One important sector that has long been suffering is the retail sector. This has seen a decline over the years and, more recently, hefty double digit declines. They are suffering not only as a result of consumers being more cautious in their spending, but also in the slowdown of the tourism industry since last year. With tourist arrivals not within our control, the retail sector will have to look up more to domestic consumer spending. The wage and bonus cuts undoubtedly will have further negative impact on spending as consumers' purchasing power becomes more diminished.”
“First, I think the Government should not hesitate to adopt a radical paradigm shift in fundamental assumptions upon which many policies today are predicated. I believe many of these policies have been formulated based upon a mix of Government controls and free market forces. It is time that some of the past premises employed to formulate existing policies be critically reviewed in the context of their relevance to the current economic conditions. Much has changed in recent months, let alone years. On concerns of the business community, while the SMEs are generally quite happy with the cost reduction measures recommended, there is still concern that the Government's share of $2.5 billion or so is disproportionate to the amount to be shouldered by the business community and the working populace. There is room for the Government to more clearly explain this. It is understandable that wages are manifold more than Government's charges, but there is a strong feeling that the Government could and need to do more in absorbing more Government-related cost components such as reduction of land costs, property taxes, port and telecommunication charges and giving income tax rebates. This could go a long way in enhancing the much needed confidence and stimulating spending and reinvestments. Much of these have been touched upon by others who have spoken earlier. Some SMEs continue to express disappointment with the much beefed-up Local Enterprises Financing Scheme (LEFS). They felt that their eligibility to take advantage of the scheme is left entirely to the banks. The latter decides solely whether or not the applicants are eligible for the loan applications.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, thank you for allowing me to participate in this debate on the motion proposed by the Minister for Trade and Industry. Since last year's Budget debate in July, many Members have made numerous calls in this House to address issues related to the cost of doing business in Singapore. In the light of the then deteriorating economic backdrop, Members have echoed the expectations and the hopes of the business community that the issue of competitiveness be addressed in the Budget and, in particular, to offer some relief to the high costs of doing business in Singapore. Regrettably, the Budget fell short of addressing this main concern of preservation and enhancement of our competitiveness vis-a-vis our neighbours. While the Government announced a $2 billion package in off-budget measures in June to control costs, many businesses also felt that there is hardly any positive impact on them. The perception remains that the effort to closely monitor the powers of the business community, especially of the small and medium-sized businesses, is lacking and that the Government continues to rely on not so current statistics to steer the economy. As we debate the motion on endorsing the CSC Report over these two days, I believe the Government realises the extreme anxiousness of our business community and the man-in-the-street about the current state of affairs and their expectation of an integrated and an action-oriented Government approach in swiftly dealing with the issue of our competitiveness. Since the debate began yesterday, much has already been said and many suggestions made by fellow MPs in terms of what more could be done over and above the recommendations of the CSC. Allow me to offer some of my own thoughts.”
“In situations where foreign workers are needed to fill the gap, it is imperative to make sure that only foreigners with the requisite skills and talents are brought in to fill appropriate job vacancies. This should be done only after exhaustively checking and ensuring that no suitable unemployed Singaporeans could take on the jobs. Such an approach will lend credibility and comfort to existing and new companies for they are assured of being able to continue to recruit workers with the appropriate skills and abilities to enable them to operate efficiently and increase their competitiveness. Singaporean workers will also look up to their foreign counterparts to learn new skills from them rather than shunning them. In the current tough economic environment, new foreign workers admitted must be seen to add value to the companies recruiting them and ultimately contribute to Singapore's economic competitiveness. During these difficult times, it can be expected that Singaporean workers will be more vigilant than ever of the quality of foreign workers brought in by companies. They must be able to demonstrate their special abilities in order to earn the respect of their Singaporean counterparts and preferably should be in a position to impart their knowledge and skills to our workers. In regard to the amendment of sections 14 and 29, I think these amendments are essential to highlight to foreign workers that the work permit issued to them is an important document which must be properly protected and also to deter them from toying with the idea of making a quick buck from selling their work permit card which undoubtedly is in demand by potential imposters in the light of the current economic crisis. Sir, I support the Bill.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of the proposed amendment in the Employment of Foreign Workers (Amendment) Bill aimed at improving the administration of the Act. Sir, beyond what the Minister for Manpower has just described, the primary purpose of the amendment Bill is to give the power to effectively address the issue of fraud and forgeries of work permit cards. The proposed amendment to section 3 to also allow the Minister for Manpower to appoint additional manpower resources to assist the Controller is timely to ensure, among others, that we screen, filter and subsequently admit foreign workers with the necessary skills and calibre so as to contribute to the enhancement of Singapore's competitiveness. Sir, in the light of the current financial crisis, much concern has been raised about the extent of jobs being assumed by foreign workers. With rising unemployment, this cry will inevitably get louder. The fact is, with the limited pool of trained workers, Singapore will still have to depend on foreign workers to meet the needs of increasingly more sophisticated industries. It is therefore imperative for the Ministry of Manpower to ensure not only for labour demand to be closely matched just in numbers, but, more importantly, to make available trained manpower with the requisite knowledge and skills demanded by today's industries. The Minister for Manpower has recently announced in Parliament that the National Plan for Manpower is being drawn up by a Manpower 21 Committee comprising captains of industry, the Government and the trade unions. This multi-agency and tripartite approach to manpower planning and development is laudable to ensure that the needs of different industries are appropriately met.”
“Mr Speaker, I commend the proposal by the Minister to bring this amendment Bill to a Select Committee because he feels that this is an opportunity and chance for the Muslim bodies, Muslim community, scholars, experts, especially those who are experts in legal matters, to come together to look into this Bill so that the amendments proposed will have the agreement of the whole community.”
“In this regard, many matters have been touched on by our colleagues earlier and many are of the view that a controversy will arise regarding the issue of the Syariah Court and the Civil Courts. The Minister said that, without having it enshrined in the law, the Muslim community has already sought redress in the Family Court. For example, in 1996, there were 2,445 families; in 1997, 2,401 families. And in the six months of this year, there were 1,407 families. That is, without having it enshrined in the law, there were already so many cases. So I think that is a problem with the Muslim community and it should not be enshrined by allowing the Muslims to go to the Civil Courts. Indirectly, the image of the Syariah Court will be affected. To me, we should leave the section in its status quo. That is my view. I say this because, without having it enshrined in the law, there are already so many Muslims going to the Civil Courts. And if you are going to have it as a law, it is as if we are saying that Muslims can go to the Civil Courts and ignore the Syariah Court. That is the view of some people. We should look at this problem more thoroughly although the parallel jurisdiction is provided to the Syariah Court and the Civil Courts. There may arise a situation in which the two courts, having parallel jurisdiction, may pass different decisions. And, at the end of the day, we will have an orange sour on one half, ie, sour on the side of one court and sweet on the side of the other court. The ones who will lose will be our own community.”
“These efforts and endeavours will lead to the creation and upliftment of the status of the Syariah Court in the long term, and if found feasible, a status change from a tribunal to a full-fledged court which is capable of handling all matrimonial issues involving Muslim couples without having to resort to the Civil Court. Finally, Mr Speaker, Sir, I support the amendment to AMLA presented by Minister Abdullah Tarmugi. Encik Harun A. Ghani (Hong Kah)(In Malay): Mr Speaker, Sir, this is the Malay language month. I will begin my speech with a Malay pantun. Roughly, it means that since Mr Abdullah has given the chance, many will be speaking and we anticipate that it will attract a lot of criticisms. Mr Speaker, I fully support the Amendment Bill. Firstly, this Bill is long overdue. Thus, I congratulate Mr Abdullah Tarmugi for having the courage to bring this Bill to Parliament. And when the Act is amended, it will bring much good to the Muslim community and no power is forcing it upon us to accept it if the amendment is bad. Of course, I think our Minister has discussed with all his Parliamentary colleagues to ensure the smooth passage of the Bill so that the Bill can be accepted by all levels of society. Unfortunately, the final word from the Minister is that he wants to bring this Bill to a Select Committee. Of course, I feel that the Minister wishes more people from the Muslim community to voice their problems through consultation. I think, prior to that, the Muslim Religious Council must play its role by calling upon all religious scholars and Muslim bodies to come to an agreement.”
“Undoubtedly, the proposed concurrent jurisdiction of allowing Muslims to have the choice of resolving their ancillary claims in the Civil Court can speed up many of these outstanding cases. This is possible because of the efficient machinery, manpower and the mechanism that are readily available in the Civil Court. Because of the shortcomings in the Syariah Court today, this opportunity can be maximised fully. In other words, Muslim couples can refer their cases to the Civil Courts so that the outstanding and complicated cases can be resolved quickly. This could continue until such time when the situation (in the Syariah Court) improves and is more manageable. This approach, in my view, although effective, should be employed in the short- term or temporarily only, while we work towards equipping and beefing up the Syariah Court with the proper manpower, management systems, mechanism, expertise and so on. Indeed, I feel the Government itself could feel proud if in the midst of a plural and secular society, Singapore is able to create a credible Syariah Court. Since the amendment to AMLA affects the various aspects of life of the Muslim community in Singapore, I think it would be proper for it to be carried out by consultation, taking into account the views of various quarters in the Muslim community in Singapore, including the Muslim intellectuals. In this regard, I am happy that the amendment to AMLA will be referred to a Select Committee as revealed by the Minister, Mr Abdullah Tarmugi, earlier so that it can be looked at more thoroughly, with considered views of the community.”
“It is these very differences that led to the creation of the Syariah Court meant to specially handle Muslim cases relating to the Syariah laws. Mr Speaker, Sir, we must see this development as an effort to give enhanced recognition and authority to the Syariah Court so that the amendment to the AMLA will fulfil and overcome the shortcomings and limitations that are inherent in the Syariah Court. Hence, the amendment to AMLA in this connection, must take into account the long-term implications. The amendments to AMLA should, as much as feasible, provide the Syariah Court with sufficient jurisdiction to enable it to act independently according to the tenets of Islam, in line with the needs of the Muslim community. We must anticipate more complicated problems to emerge in future and as such, should properly equip that the Syariah Court with relevant powers of jurisdiction to prevent the Muslim community from being trapped again in a similar situation in the future. Therefore, it is incumbent on us to explore new approaches so that in the long term, Muslim couples need only go to the Syariah Court to resolve their matrimonial problems. It is a known fact that Muslims in Singapore have made their claims in the Civil Court since 1968. But it must be borne in mind that this is so because they really did not have much choice, owing to the shortcomings of the Syariah Court which was seen to be less effective compared to the Civil Courts. However, the proposed amendments to the AMLA are laudable as it will help in reducing the backlog of long standing divorce cases and also other cases that have remained unresolved for a long period.”
“The proposal for the amendment to the Act arises among others, from the case of Mdm Salijah Abdul Latif and Abdullah Teo in 1993 for the division of matrimonial property as mentioned by Mr Abdullah Tarmugi. Two years later, the case was brought to the High Court before Justice Prakash who held that the High Court had no jurisdiction on the matter. Mdm Salijah appealed but the Appeal Court agreed with the decision of Justice Prakash. Subsequently, the High Court rejected two more cases involving Muslim couples and these decisions closed the avenue for Muslim divorcing couples to seek remedy and resolution at the Civil Courts. Mr Speaker, Sir, the Syariah Court is created because of its status in AMLA. AMLA confers the jurisdiction that it possesses and the High Court itself concurred that it does not have the right to interfere in cases involving Muslim couples. Therefore, it is opportune for us and all those involved to consider deeply and thoroughly how the amendments to the Administration of Muslim Law Act can enable the Syariah Court to resolve problems and issues of divorcing Muslim couples effectively, especially in the areas of matrimonial property, maintenance and custody of children. In today's context, the issues of matrimonial property, custody and maintenance are not peripheral matters any more. They are becoming more the core and crucial issues which, more often than not, are matters for contention. Although we have the Civil Courts, I believe a more comprehensive solution which takes account of Islamic considerations can only be obtained by couples choosing the avenue of the Syariah Court. This includes the question of custody, division of property, apostasy of couples, rules of evidence, and other regulations.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, firstly, I would like to express that we have made considerable progress and many laudable developments have been introduced to the amendment of AMLA during its First Reading in this House on 20th April 1998. What is clear is that the amendments will provide various ways for MUIS to carry out and widen its role more effectively. Among others, as explained by the Minister for Community Development and the Minister responsible for Muslim Affairs, Mr Abdullah Tarmugi earlier, the amendments will allow MUIS to form or participate in the formation of companies, joint-ventures or partnerships. MUIS will also be vested with the proper powers to deal with Halal issues. What is even more crucial, I believe, is the fact that the amendments involve the enhancement of powers and capabilities of the Syariah Court. Under the proposed amendments the Syariah Court will continue to retain exclusive jurisdiction over matters, such as marriage issues, divorce, dissolution of engagements, dissolution of marriages and divorce orders. In addition to these exclusive powers, the Syariah Court will also be bestowed with five additional powers, as described in the Amendment Bill. Mr Speaker, Sir, many of the additional powers in the proposed amendment are intended to strengthen the authority of the Syariah Court so that it can exercise its role more effectively. However, I feel that some of the proposed changes may have contributed to some confusion. What I mean is the parallel or concurrent jurisdiction which allows Muslims the choice of seeking remedy in ancillary matters, such as custody and maintenance claims and division of matrimonial property either at the Syariah Court or the Civil Court.”
“Sir, while it is really laudable that the Minister for Finance has announced a host of measures to lower the business cost and preserve jobs as a result of that, the fact still remains that there are many individuals in distress, especially individuals who have lost their jobs and those who may be losing their jobs. The question I have is this: why has the Minister not considered using the CPF mechanism? For instance, I know that many individuals are prematurely redeeming their insurance policies and individuals who have difficulties paying for their children's education. Perhaps the Minister could consider using the CPF mechanism to allow the usage of their CPF funds to temporarily at least pay for some of these costs that individuals have to incur. Mr Peh Chin Hua (Jalan Besar)(In Mandarin): Sir, I have two questions to raise here. Three months after presenting his Budget statement, the Minister for Finance is now presenting his package of off-Budget measures to help cut the business cost in Singapore. I hope that three months later, he will review this package and make the necessary adjustment to it. I believe most Singaporeans will be disappointed with the package introduced today, because the people have high expectations. The higher the expectations, the greater the disappointment. Entrepreneurs in Singapore know that the Singapore Government is prudent, and very conservative, especially in time of crisis.”
“In the wake of the current economic downturn, will the Minister reconsider deferring the increase of the foreign domestic worker levy until the situation improves, as it may adversely impact those who are affected by the current economic conditions, but at the same time are still dependent on the services of foreign domestic maids.”
“Sir, still on the issue of foreign maids. The Ministry of Labour announced in November last year that the foreign domestic worker levy would go up by $15 a month with effect from 1st April 1998, ie, next month. This is to be followed by small annual revisions thereafter. The objective of the foreign domestic worker levy, according to the Ministry, is to regulate demand for foreign domestic workers, and to discourage Singaporeans from becoming overly reliant on them. Sir, a working couple trying to juggle between babies, housework, career and upgrading their skills and studies are already finding their lives very stressful. Thus, it would appear to me that even if the Government continues to raise the foreign domestic worker levy, the demand will remain fairly inelastic. For those in this category having a maid is really not an option. The concern over the levy increase lies not only in the higher costs to households, especially for young working couples, but more importantly, the availability of alternatives such as childcare centres. There are also those who are in need of a maid to look after their beloved elderly while they are at work. Having a maid for this group is a necessity. The Government must not be seen to be sending confusing signals. If Singapore wants its women to come forward to contribute economically, then there must be assurance that their children are not deprived of proper and dedicated care. The question then is how the Ministry could ensure that the measures taken to increase the maid levy really meet its objective in terms of controlling the numbers while at the same time ensuring that those really in need of a maid service are not deprived.”
“There is, therefore, a corresponding need to also constantly nurture and strengthen this tripartite partnership to suit the changing landscape as we endeavour to build a world-class and globally competitive workforce.”
“With activity tapering off in the light of the present economic slowdown, it presents an outstanding opportunity for employers to conduct the much needed training and skills upgrading which many employers have kept postponing during peak periods. This is where employers and unions, with the assistance of the newly set up Ministry of Manpower, could quickly act to get our workers trained up so that they will be more knowledgeable, productive and efficient when better times return. At the national level, as already asserted by NMP Cyrille Tan and the Member for Kreta Ayer-Tanglin GRC, Mr Sinnakaruppan, during the February 1998 debate on this subject, I would like to echo their sentiment on the urgent need to establish a structured programme to ensure life-long employability of our workers. I am glad to note that the Minister, Dr Lee Boon Yang, has just announced that the Ministry of Manpower will make this as one of its key priorities when it begins functioning from 1st April 1998. Sir, our unique tripartite setting which I am certain is the envy of many countries has worked marvellously for us. The union movement has demonstrated its value and usefulness to not only help companies and businesses become more productive, but also contributed in steering our industries to become one of the most competitive in the world. Companies, workers and nation have collectively benefited from the peaceful harmony created by the tripartite partnership. However, past success should never be taken for granted. The three partners in this relationship will be tested in the wake of the constantly changing and increasingly competitive global business environment.”
“Workers can expect to have a constantly new set of co-workers, work for more than one boss or switch bosses more often. Companies will prefer workers who show a high capacity for adjustment and want those who can adapt fast, not those who resist change. The current economic crisis sets the stage for even more rapid changes within companies and organisations, as they restructure their operations to stay competitive and relevant. Our unions have demonstrated their responsibility in the past by acting positively to assist companies become more productive and efficient and, as a result, enable both employers and workers to benefit from higher profitability. I see no reason why this cordial partnership could not be put to beneficial use at a time when companies are faced with difficult business decisions in the wake of the financial crisis taking its toll on our economy. Sir, our priority must be to preserve jobs. I think employers should recognise that our responsible unions have the capacity and expertise to assist companies in trouble and those having cash flow problems due to their business exposure in the region. They could therefore be pro-active by sincerely and honestly sharing their difficulties they face with the unions. Trust could be strengthened and built by having management and union leaders sitting down together to sort through the various options to save jobs, such as moderating expectations, cutting down on the variable components of wages wherever possible, implement wage freezes or working short weeks, depending on the issues afflicting the troubled companies. Sir, there has been so much talk and emphasis given to upgrading the skills of employees but, unfortunately, this is not correspondingly met with concrete and swift action to tackle this problem.”
“Sir, the subject of tripartite partnership was discussed at length recently when the Nominated Member, Mr Cyrille Tan, moved a motion in this House for the Government to recognise it as a key competitive advantage of Singapore. Sir, I feel the adoption of the motion could not have come at a better time in the wake of the current economic slowdown arising from the regional financial crisis. As a private and manufacturing sector employer, allow me to provide my perspective of tripartism from the employer's viewpoint. We all recognise that we currently live in an era of pervasive change. Companies and organisations will have to keep reshaping itself, shifting and flexing to fit the rapidly changing world. This is the only way we can hope to survive in this fiercely competitive environment. Speed is another crucial element for business survival these days. Slowness kills companies and this translates to also the death of many careers. Workers must therefore recognise that many changes going on are designed to help their companies pick up speed. Everyone is expected to operate with a stronger sense of urgency to get things accomplished. I believe speed even ranks higher than perfection in this challenging business environment we are operating today. High quality is important but it must come quickly. Even if it means failure, we need to learn to fail fast, fix it and race on. The days of solely relying on incremental step-by-step improvements are over. We need to seek radical breakthroughs and quantum leaps to remain relevant. Our workers, therefore, must expect and be prepared for flexible waves of working. Duties and tasks will be regularly realigned to suit changing conditions. Short-lived assignments will be more common.”
“Mr Inderjit Singh: Sir, many Members in the last few days have spoken about the critical cash flow problems that many businesses are facing due to the overall slowdown in the region. While I can understand the Minister's reluctance to reduce corporate tax by 1% to 2% because we cannot change the overall long-term strategy due to transient problems, we therefore are not asking for such changes but rather a one-off extraordinary action like some of the Members have already proposed for the next two to three years. I would therefore like to propose the following measures. The first one is not new, a one-off 10% to 15% tax rebate for the next two years for our businesses. The second proposal is related to tax deductibility on a group level. And the third one, to ease cash flow problems, is the allowance for businesses in Singapore to pay their income tax in instalments over the next two years. So hopefully, we can have some short-term cash flow problems resolved. Can I take the second cut now?”
“Sir, the point I wish to raise has somewhat been covered by Mr Leong and Mr Chuang. However, it pertains more to SMEs who have gone regional. Many local SMEs were encouraged by the Government in the course of the last five years or so to regionalise, to help create an external wing for our economy as a means to sustain growth. The Minister for Finance has over the years also introduced a variety of tax measures, such as unilateral tax credit for dividend income, tax exemption schemes for venture capital and regional funds to encourage investments in the Asia Pacific and also the overseas enterprise incentive to promote regionalisation. The Government's active promotion, coupled with a host of attractive incentives, motivated many of our local SMEs to jump on the bandwagon and set up operations in our neighbouring countries. Unfortunately, as a result of the unforeseen currency crisis, they are now finding themselves exposed and are incurring heavy losses due to the drastic exchange rate depreciation, particularly that of the rupiah and the Thai baht and, to some extent, the Malaysian ringgit. Sir, in view of this fact, I would like to ask the Minister for Finance to consider the feasibility of allowing a one-off tax deduction or offset strictly arising from unrealised exchange losses for Singapore companies operating in the countries affected by the currency crisis. The unrealised deduction allowed could be monitored perhaps by the tax authorities and whatever gains, if any, realised at the time the transactions mature could be recovered back by the authorities in the next accounting period. Such allowances will enable companies exposed to the region to improve their cash flow during the period of the financial crisis.”
“They need to be educated on the realities of the harsh and fiercely competitive business environment which calls for responsiveness to changing circumstances and customer expectations in the smallest possible lapse of time. They must be made to understand that survival today means effectively managing perpetual motion or risk becoming obsolete. Finally, Sir, amidst the gloom hovering over us, it is important also for us not to be obsessed with the negatives and forget about the opportunities abound in the region. With the strength of the Singapore dollar relative to regional currencies, there are tremendous opportunities to acquire or buy into companies which are in dire need of capital infusion in our neighbouring countries. On that note, Sir, I support the financial policy in the name of the Finance Minister.”
“As an example, Mr Lew suggested that the first $2 million in taxable income could be taxed at 15%, the next $3 million at a higher rate of 20% and amounts above $5 million at the long term rate of 25%. Such a move will help local SMEs grow faster as the savings in corporate tax could be ploughed back into the business. One way to ensure that the money is reinvested is to make it a condition that companies could only enjoy the scheme if the tax savings are retained in the business for re-investment purposes. Mr Speaker, Sir, on the 5% one-off tax rebate for individuals, while I do understand the rationale for the reduction from the 10% one-off given last year, I wish the Minister could have been more generous in the light of the current economic gloom. The relief could have helped make up for the declining disposable income anticipated this year as a result of lower variable bonuses and salary increases because of more difficult business conditions. The spare cash could, in turn, be channelled back into the economy to help the ailing retail sector which is experiencing a serious slowdown. Sir, I think it is important in this rapidly changing and events-driven economic environment for the Government to closely feel the pulse of the business community and economy on a regular basis to ensure that off-Budget measures could be taken swiftly before the situation becomes very difficult to contain. Having said all that, Mr Speaker, Sir, I believe there is an urgent need for businesses to learn that they cannot continually look up to the Government to solve their business problems.”
“Concerning the wide range of Government assistance schemes available for companies to take advantage of, the local enterprises continue to feel that there is room for further simplification of the procedures. Many are turned off by the amount of paper work required to apply for the schemes. I hope the appropriate Government agencies administering the various schemes could look into this matter. In regard to the 15% tax rebate for commercial and industrial properties, while this directly benefits the property owners, there is concern that many private owners will not share this concession with their tenants. I suggest that some form of a concession-sharing formula be considered to require landlords who rent out their properties to share the rebate with their tenants. Only then will this concession benefit a wider cross-section of the business community. Sir, on the extension of rent freeze by the JTC and HDB, it was strongly felt that the freeze did not offer anything extra to lower operating costs, as both agencies had frozen their rentals since the middle of last year. As rent in most cases represents the second highest component of business cost, I suggest that this area be closely looked at as a possible off-Budget action, should the situation worsen. On corporate tax reduction expected by certain quarters, I personally feel that it would not make much of a difference to businesses in a year where profits are expected to be generally lower or where there are no profits to be made at all. However, I do hope that some form of a multi-tier corporate tax system for local SMEs as proposed by Mr Lew Syn Pau in last year's Budget debate is being considered by the Minister for Finance.”
“As a result of the financial crisis afflicting the region, many of our local businesses are experiencing various setbacks and are cash strapped due to their exposure in the regional markets, especially Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. Demand for the products they sell to these countries has sharply decreased due to the exchange rate situation, and at the same time their imports from these countries are finding fewer buyers as Singaporeans tighten their belts on spending. Sales contracts made before the currency crisis and denominated in regional currencies are resulting in drastic exchange losses, and to make matters worse, payments are coming in slower than ever before, thereby contributing to cash flow difficulties. On the local front, interest rates are higher and banks are more conservative in extending credit. Many businesses are therefore confronted with tight cash flow, reduced turnover, relatively higher costs, and potentially higher bad debt exposure. Sir, the recent widening of the scope of the Local Enterprise Financing Scheme (LEFS) is indeed the sparkle in the Budget for our local businesses, especially for the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It will help to alleviate cost pressures on businesses. However, some groups expressed the concern that the enhancement will primarily benefit larger companies which will be viewed more favourably by the financial institutions in their lending considerations, whether or not they are prepared to co-share the lending risks. I suggest that some attention be given by the administrating body of the scheme, ie, the Singapore Productivity and Standards Board (PSB), to deserving companies which may have difficulty in securing working capital loans from the financial institutions.”
“Above all, I am pleased to note that there is no softening in the allocation of funds for education, although we could have done better in setting aside more funding for Continuing Education and Training (CET) in the wake of the current financial crisis. I am sure several of my labour MP colleagues will touch on this subject at length. In spite of the need to be prudent in crafting the Budget during this unstable period, we must continue to build on the philosophy and wisdom of "teaching a man how to fish". Inculcating creativity and thinking skills in our school children will provide the foundation for them not only to survive in an increasingly challenging world but will also shape their mental framework to overcome adversity. However, Sir, in the wake of our expected growth slowdown and the full impact of the regional economic crisis expected to be felt this year, it is fair for the business community to also anticipate a budget that would offer them some relief to help them tide through the current difficult period. As already stated by Mr Leong Horn Kee, Chairman of the Government Parliamentary Committee for Finance, Trade and Industry, and also being a member of the Committee myself, I wish to echo the disappointment expressed by the various Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the trade groups and associations the Committee met with after the announcement of the Budget Statement. They strongly felt that the budget primarily benefited certain segments of the financial sector and failed to provide sufficient reprieve in lowering business costs in the current difficult and challenging business environment.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, in spite of this year's budget being dubbed a prudent one, I am glad to note that many MPs who have spoken before me are generally supportive of it. The Budget Statement is in line with our larger goals of preserving our long term competitiveness and achieving a stable growth pattern as we position ourselves to become a developed economy. What is impressive is the Finance Minister's ability to show a surplus of $2.7 billion or about 1.7% of GDP in a difficult and uncertain year. This is important as it demonstrates to fellow Singaporeans and the international business community that in spite of the financial woes enveloping the region, and to some extent our economy, we are still intent on building our reserves even though it may be the lowest in years. The financial crisis has certainly proven the importance of building a strong and healthy reserve, without which we would have suffered the same fate as some of our neighbours did in the regional currency battering. For the year ahead of us, what is even more important is the fact that this very surplus will become available immediately for infusion into the economy should there be a need for the Government to implement off-Budget measures, as already promised by the Finance Minister, Dr Richard Hu. Sir, as stated by several Members already, the financial services sector is once again the major beneficiary of the host of incentives unveiled in the Budget Statement. As this sector is one of the key propellants of our economy and the fact that it is also tied to our goal to be a global financial centre and a regional business hub, it is therefore appropriate for this sector to be given a further boost.”
“Sir, in view of the large amount of potential revenue loss, would the Minister perhaps consider lifting the GST exemption for travellers across the Causeway?”
“Sir, the points I wish to raise are identical to what Mr Lew Syn Pau has brought up earlier on. I support what he has said.”
“Sir, much has been discussed and debated on the subject of the employment of foreign workers in our workforce in the past. In spite of exhaustive explanations offered by the Minister for Labour concerning the curbs and regulations needed to control their employment, I believe employer groups and industry associations are still not very convinced with his clarifications. Sir, many of them feel that the arguments that the foreign workers are taking over the jobs of Singaporeans or suppressing their wages do not hold because in many cases the foreign workers fill jobs which Singaporeans themselves do not want to perform. For example, foreign workers are particularly needed in the construction industry and to work in the graveyard shift in the manufacturing industries. Could I ask the Minister for Labour to once again clearly explain this issue for the benefit of employers? With Singapore continuing to face a tight labour market situation, is there any room for the Minister to consider relaxing the policy on the recruitment of foreign workers? Sir, may I seek your permission to also move to the next topic on foreign worker levy, since they are related?”
“Sir, in consideration of Singapore's tight labour market and Singapore's rapidly aging population, it is laudable that the Government is increasing the retirement age of workers to retain them longer in the workforce. Apart from their extended presence in the workforce, it also provides greater meaning to the lives of our older workers by keeping them active and gainfully employed longer as opposed to retiring them. Sir, I feel that there are two issues that require to be addressed if we are in earnest about creating an infrastructure to increase the retirement age of our older workers and retaining them longer in our workforce. First, with Singapore accelerating its restructuring momentum, the prospect of structural unemployment looms ahead of us. The older workers are more likely to be affected by retrenchments due to their lower educational levels as our economy moves upstream. I would like to understand what measures are currently being undertaken by the Ministry of Labour to enhance the employability of our older workers to retain them longer in the workforce. Will there be labour policies and procedures to protect our older workers from being displaced from our economy? Secondly, there is a tendency for most employers to prefer recruitment of younger workers. This is apparent in job advertisements in which younger age preferences are usually stated. In the wake of the rapidly changing profile of our workforce, does the Ministry of Labour again plan to launch any programme to encourage or implement any legislation to require employers not to discriminate age in their recruitment?”
“Again, as several of my MP colleagues have raised during the Budget debate over the past two days, a major problem we have is the large pool of workers with less than secondary education. I am very concerned, Sir, that these workers face the prospect of being displaced from our economy as our restructuring momentum accelerates. Sir, I would appreciate it if the Minister could enlighten us of the measures that are being taken or will be taken to adequately prepare our workforce in order to minimise and preferably prevent this from happening. Secondly, Sir, are there measures in place to ensure that the pace of our restructuring programme is in tandem with our workforce's ability to cope?”