Ang Wei Neng
Singapore
“Thank you, Speaker, and I thank the Minister for the comprehensive reply. Can I just ask for clarification on the three incidents of Singtel disruption? It was reported by the press that they were totally unrelated. What was the preliminary investigation based on the finding of IMDA?”
“Chairman, I have two clarifications. Firstly, we are glad that the Minister has assured us that MOT is working to establish clearer criteria for distinguishing between Cat A and Cat B COE. In the meantime, I would like to seek clarification on the reduction in the supply of Category A COE.”
“I would like to seek a clarification regarding the Lift Access Housing Grant. Could the qualifying criteria be relaxed for occupants aged 70 and above, without the need for medical certification?”
“Such an outcome would run contrary to the original intent of maintaining distinct categories within the passenger car segment. As MOT has previously stated, the primary objective of Cat A COE is to preserve a portion of the vehicle quota for mass-market cars, thereby ensuring greater accessibility and affordability for the average Singapo…”
“Under NParks' pigeon management plan, efforts remain largely focused on pigeons. I urge NParks, within MND's broader human-wildlife management framework, to evolve towards a comprehensive Pest Bird Management approach, one that also addresses other urban-adapted species, such as mynas and crows, where they cause persistent disamenities to…”
“Thank you, Chair. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] I would like to ask Senior Minister of State Sim Ann, how would she describe Singapore's current relationship with China against the backdrop of Sino-US geopolitical tensions.”
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“LTA needs to collaborate with the Energy Market Authority, Singapore Power and other stakeholders to accelerate the fast charger installation. Without this, electric taxis may struggle to support their sustainability goals. In conclusion, I urge LTA to level the playing field for taxis. Without intervention, we risk losing a vital service that has long been a pillar of our transport system. Let us work together to preserve the taxi industry for future generations. Point-to-point”
“Chairman, I declare my interest as I run a company that leases out taxis, limousines and private hire cars. The taxi industry has been a cornerstone of Singapore’s transport, serving commuters faithfully despite PHC disruptions. Taxis remain vital, especially for street-hail customers like tourists and those who are less familiar with phone apps. However, PHCs hold significant advantages over taxis. Firstly, about the flexibility: PHCs have no livery and can be used by family members without a PDVL when not in service, allowing for better resource utilisation from a national perspective. Secondly, the resale salue: PHCs can convert to private use, retaining their value, unlike taxis. Their lifespan: a PHC can operate beyond 10 years, while taxis cannot. Last but not least, the regulation: the PHC numbers are unregulated, whereas taxi numbers are capped. Of these, flexibility stands out as the most critical advantage. It allows PHC drivers to maximise the usage of their vehicles, a significant benefit in Singapore, where car ownership is costly. To address this imbalance, I propose looking to Montreal in Canada, as an example. In Montreal, taxis are allowed to operate with a large removable taxi top, the taxi top can be removed but without livery, allowing them to function as normal cars when not in service. I urge LTA to consider allowing taxis to operate without livery, provided they remain clearly identifiable, that means, you can see it is a taxi very clearly, through a removable taxi top and perhaps an additional LCD sign. This adjustment would create a more level playing field and help sustain the taxi industry. In addition, a fast-charging infrastructure is crucial for electric taxis.”
“As our train network expands, it has become the backbone of Singapore’s public transport, with buses primarily serving first- and last-mile connections. However, some bus routes still span over two hours, connecting MRT stations at opposite ends of Singapore. Such long routes are inefficient for commuters and can lead to driver fatigue, raising safety concerns. So, I am glad that Minister of State Murali is leading a taskforce to enhance bus safety and I look forward to his updates. Meanwhile, I urge LTA to consider new bus services that connect HDB heartlands more directly to key services like polyclinics. In Nanyang, for example, many residents traveling to Pioneer Polyclinic must walk 170 meters, almost the distance of a bus stop. For the young and healthy, this may be manageable, but for the elderly or sick, even 50 meters can be a struggle. I hope LTA can amend existing routes or introduce new services to better serve these residents. Additionally, many bus interchanges, especially open-air ones, appear dated. I urge LTA to upgrade these facilities. Could open-air bus interchanges be converted into air-conditioned interchanges for commuters’ comfort? If not, how can LTA better protect commuters from extreme weather, especially heavy rain and storm? Let us work together to make public transport safer, more efficient and more inclusive for all Singaporeans. Commuters' Experience”
“Residents in Jurong West are currently served only by the East-West Line, and we welcome the upcoming Jurong Region Line, or JRL. While Singapore's train network has significantly improved in reliability and consistently achieving over one million mean kilometres between failure (MKBF), breakdowns cannot be entirely ruled out. To enhance resilience in the West, even with JRL, I urge LTA to consider extending the JRL to connect with the Circle Line and the upcoming Cross Island Line as soon as possible. This will not only provide alternative routes during disruptions but also improve connectivity and convenience for residents in the western region. New Rail Line in North and Northeast”
“Two, when adding lifts is not feasible or too costly, I urge HDB to consider the following: allow owners to sell their segmented flats back to HDB at market price, ensuring they are not financially disadvantaged; grant these owners the priority to apply for BTO flats, similar to first-time applicants, to improve their chances of securing a new home; waive the resale levy for owners who sell their segmented units and buy a BTO flat, removing a significant financial barrier; provide additional subsidies for purchasing another flat, with even greater support for families with members who have mobility issues. After buying back the segmented units, HDB should not resell them. Instead, HDB could collaborate with entities like hospitals to rent out these units to foreign nurses and medical workers, preventing the cycle from repeating. These measures would provide a permanent solution, ensuring no Singaporean is left behind as they age. Let us be decisive, take bold action to resolve this issue once and for all. HDB Lifts”
“Sir, 30 years ago, residents who bought segmented HDB units without lift access at the same level, prioritised privacy over convenience. Back then, climbing the stairs was not an issue. But today, as they age, many face mobility challenges and their priorities have shifted. What was once a desirable feature has become a source of hardship. Last month, one of my Nanyang residents, came to see me. She is 68 years old and lives in a segmented unit and suffers from weak knees, making stairs a daily struggle. Her sister-in-law, a stroke patient lives next door, also a segmented unit, faces even greater mobility challenges. Both wish to apply for a BTO flat with lift access, but as second-time applicants, their chances are slim. This is not an isolated case. It is a story shared by many residents living in segmented units across Singapore. That is why I urge the Minister for National Development to review the policy on segmented units. Out of the 140 segmented blocks in Nanyang, 14 blocks, or 10%, are in Nanyang, affecting 224 households. These residents are not asking for special treatment; they are asking for a fair chance to age with dignity and ease. To address this issue, I propose the following measures: One, install additional lifts in segmented blocks wherever it is technically possible. This is the best solution.”
“These caregivers meet monthly and stay connected through a WhatsApp group, offering each other tips, encouragement and emotional support. Just last night, I received a message from one of the caregivers stating her concern on how her son with special needs can claim the SG60 vouchers as he would not be able to use it, the $600 vouchers, on his own. I hope MSF can look into this concern. One of the members of the Purple Heart, Mdm Sim, joined us recently. At 58, she cares for her 25-year-old daughter, who has Angelman Syndrome. Both Mdm Sim and her husband work as delivery personnel with low wages and they also have to support two younger daughters who are still studying. Life is tough for Mdm Sim, but through the Family of Purple Heart, she has found solace and strength in the company of others who understand her struggles. Mdm Sim's story is not unique. There are countless caregivers across Singapore who are equally — who are also quietly bearing the weight of their responsibilities with little recognition or support. That is why I urge MSF to consider providing caregivers with a quarterly grant of $200, similar to the Silver Support Scheme, through LifeSG credits or otherwise. While this amount may seem modest, it would serve as a meaningful gesture of recognition and help ease the financial burden that many caregivers face.”
“Today, the focus has shifted to employment outcomes for PSN. I am proud to share that my son, who has special needs, has been able to work part-time in a factory – thanks to the School-to-Work Transition Programme run by the Enabling Village. In recent years, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) has developed the Enabling Master Plan 2030, effectively implemented by its Senior Parliamentary Secretary Mr Eric Chua. I am also grateful that Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has agreed to extend the Enabling Employment Credit to the end of 2028, ensuring employers continue to receive wage offsets for hiring PSN. But while we celebrate these milestones, we must not forget the unsung heroes in this journey: the caregivers. As a parent of a child with special needs, I know first-hand that caring for a PSN is a lifelong mission. It is not easy. When a PSN behaves differently in public, bystanders often rush to judge, blaming the parents for a lack of discipline, unaware of the immense challenges that they face. This is why it is crucial to provide caregivers with the support they need, whether it is connecting them to resources, offering emotional support or providing respite care. In Nanyang, we have taken a step in this direction with Project Purple Heart, inspired by the Purple Parade. This initiative brings together caregivers of family members with special needs. Our early sessions were emotional as caregivers candidly shared their struggles. But as we connected them to resources and to one another, a strong support network emerged. Today, we have about 60 caregivers in our network and we have renamed the initiative “Family of Purple Heart” to reflect our long-term commitment to their well-being.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise today in full support of the Budget and wholeheartedly echo the Prime Minister's call for Singapore to become a more inclusive society. When our nation was young, our priorities were clear and urgent: grow the economy, create jobs and ensure every Singaporean had a chance to thrive. And 60 years ago, in 1965, unemployment rate stood at a staggering 10%. Today, thanks to decades of hard work and sound policies, unemployment has fallen to less than 3% and our median household income has risen to $11,297. This is a testament to our collective resilience and determination. Yet, as we celebrate these achievements, we must also recognise that not everyone has benefited equally. While the majority of Singaporeans have seen their lives improve, there are still those at risk of being left behind. This is why I am heartened to see our Gini coefficient, a measure of income inequality, reach a new low after Government transfers. This is a healthy sign, but it is not enough. We must do more, especially for those who need our help the most: people with special needs (PSN). Some may refer to this group as people with disabilities, but I prefer the term "people with special needs" because it reflects their unique challenges and extraordinary potential. Over a decade ago, I had the privilege of being involved in the Enabling Master Plan 2 and 3, initiatives aimed at improving the lives of PSN from cradle to grave. Since then, we have made significant progress. Special Education (SPED) schools, for instance, are no longer run as charities but are now well-funded by the Ministry of Education (MOE). This means these schools can focus on what truly matters: providing quality education and improving outcomes for PSN.”
“Thank you, Speaker, Sir. I thank the Minister for the comprehensive reply. I want to ask a supplementary question. Sir, how many units of segmented units are there in Singapore? It was answered in Parliament that about less than hundred blocks still have segmented units. So, in Nanyang alone, there are 224 units in 14 blocks that have no direct lift access on the same level. When these original owners bought their flats about 30 years ago, they had really treasured the privacy over having lift access; but today, when they are old, they really treasure the direct lift access possibility over the privacy that they are used to have. But when they want to sell the flat, they have two problems: one is that resale values of these segmented flats are lower; and two, they take a longer time to sell. And what is most important is that when they try to apply for another Build-To-Order (BTO) flat that has lift access, they are considered as second-timers and they have very little success in getting a flat. For example, one of my residents told me he has balloted for three times and could not get a BTO flat that has direct lift access. So, I really urge the Minister to consider giving them priority, especially to those owners who have family members with mobility issues.”
“Mr Speaker, I thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the comprehensive reply. We understand there are challenges in meeting the waste-to-landfill target and I have two supplementary questions. Given that solar panels are getting better and cheaper, over the years, will the Government consider encouraging the installation of solar panels even more? For example, would the Ministry of Sustainability and Environment (MSE) work with the Ministry of Trade and Industry, as well as the Ministry of National Development to mandate all new commercial buildings of a certain size and houses of a certain size to install solar panels; and also mandate commercial buildings and also housing of a certain size to install solar panels when they go through additions and alterations. This is the first supplementary question. The second supplementary question is, given that the United States has withdrawn from the Paris Climate Agreement one more time, what is the impact on the Singapore Green Plan and whether Government is reviewing the Singapore Green Plan 2030 and beyond.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I thank the Minister for the comprehensive reply. In the last round, when the local Muslim foundation did a fundraising, our Nanyang residents were encouraged and also contributed to the fundraising and we are looking forward to the next fundraising round that is coming in the next month, during the Ramadan period. I would like to ask a supplementary question to the Minister. If there is a permanent ceasefire, will the Singapore Government consider trying to build a school or hospital so that we can be involved in the reconstruction of Gaza?”
“I thank the Minister for the reply. Can I ask the Minister, currently, based on the projection for the whole of 2024, will the passenger volume exceed pre-pandemic period? Secondly, does the Minister anticipate a higher volume in the coming year and if so, how is Changi Airport preparing for it? Lastly, I would like to ask the Minister, we know the Jeju Air incident is a very sad incident. Are there any lessons learnt and how are we preparing ourselves to prevent the occurrence of such an incident?”
“The first question is that the Senior Minister of State said three companies were investigated and actions were taken for their lapses. We know that one or two have been mentioned in the press. How about the other company? The second part is of the remaining five that were investigated, what was the status of the investigations?”
“Thank you, Speaker, and thank you to the Senior Minister of State for the comprehensive reply. Can the Senior Minister of State also elaborate whether MOH can name the other two companies that provided telemedicine and where action has been taken, and for the remaining five, what is the status of the investigation? That is the first question. The second question is, how many cases were there where the telemedicine consultations lasted less than a minute? And finally, whether there were cases where there were actually no patients, but they have recorded that there were patients?”
“At the same time, the tripartite partners have been working tirelessly to ensure that Singaporeans can enjoy high quality and more diverse local food. (In English): Mr Speaker, Sir, the examples cited above showcase our continuous support for our hawkers. Thus, I fully support the Motion as amended by Mr Edward Chia.”
“The smooth completion of this project was due to the full support from HDB, NEA, SCDF, PUB and other Government agencies. At the same time, we also received donations from many kind-hearted individuals which enabled the temporary market to be completed so quickly. After a two-year transition period, the new two-storey Jurong Central building finally officially opened on 1 January 2019, providing hawkers with a brand new and more spacious business venue, as well as a more comfortable shopping and dining environment for our residents. Between 2016 and 2018, my team and I not only had to operate the temporary market, but also prepare for the construction of the new market and food court. This process was full of challenges and complexities. However, it was precisely this experience that gave us a deeper understanding of the hard work and difficulties faced by hawkers in their daily operations. This valuable experience was very helpful later when I joined the West Coast GRC to assist NEA in planning the re-opening of the Jurong West Hawker Centre. The new Jurong West Hawker Centre broke away from the previous design of having cooked-food stalls only on the second floor and instead placed them on both the first and second floors, offering more diverse choices and better visibility. The new Jurong West Hawker Centre has been operating for over a year now, attracting a noticeably increased footfall, making it more convenient for everyone to enjoy good food. These two examples fully demonstrate the joint efforts of the Government and civil society in improving the environment for hawkers and enhancing the diversity of our local cuisine.”
“In addition, many of us have local schemes to help our residents better cope with the rising cost of living. In Nanyang division, for example, blue CHAS card holders can apply for multiple $1 breakfast voucher to exchange for a $3 breakfast set from two main coffee shops at Blocks 815 and 959 Jurong West. At Ayer Rajah-Gek Poh, low income residents receive $50 WeCare vouchers monthly to spend at local shops, including local hawker centre. The above experiences underscore the Government’s steadfast support for our hawkers as well as our support to our vulnerable residents, to mitigate the impact from rising food costs. The very concept of hawker centres was championed by the PAP Government and today, Singapore’s hawker culture is recognised on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Are we perfect? Certainly not. Nothing is. But we continue to listen, adapt and improve to support our hawkers and Singaporeans who are patrons of the hawker centre. Mr Speaker, Sir, in Mandarin, please. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mr Speaker, in October 2016, when a fire broke out at the market and food centre in Jurong Central, 56 stallholders instantly lost their livelihoods. Faced with this sudden incident, I immediately gathered grassroots leaders, volunteers and affected stallholders to engage in urgent consultations with relevant agencies, such as HDB and NEA. We decided to quickly set up a temporary market for the stallholders. What was originally estimated to take six months of construction was completed successfully in six weeks. From the fire in October to around Christmas at the end of December, the affected stallholders were able to reopen their businesses.”
“The experience of managing a temporary market and overseeing the rebuilding of a new market and eating house proved to be invaluable when I later worked with the NEA to reopen the Jurong West Hawker Centre in West Coast GRC. The old Jurong West Market and Hawker Centre faced significant challenges to stay afloat, battling fierce competition from a nearby food court and a 24-hour supermarket. The isolated location of its cooked food stalls on the second level, hidden away from the public eye at street level, gave them more challenges. To ensure the success of the new centre, we conducted a survey of over 2,000 nearby residents to better understand their preferences for wet market stalls, cooked food stalls, or a combination of both. The results revealed that more residents preferred a combination of both. However, when we examined the responses more closely, we found that many of those who expressed a preference for wet market stalls had rarely, if ever, shopped there. And some had visited only once in a blue moon. This insight gave us valuable perspective on the real needs and habits of the community. With this insight, we made the decision to focus solely on cooked food stalls, making use of both the ground and second levels with easy access via escalators. Today, the revitalised Jurong West Hawker Centre is doing much better than before. The tenants pay a fixed rental fee to the SEHC operator of the Jurong West Hawker Centre, Chang Cheng, rather than through a price bidding system. The tenants also received rental discounts in the first couple of years of operations. The operator organises fringe activities periodically to bring in the crowd and plans to offer discount vouchers to vulnerable families.”
“Together, we took on the challenge and, against all odds, raised the funds and built the temporary market in just six weeks – much faster than industry experts had predicted. By the end of 2016, the stallholders were back in business. And on 1 January 2019, we opened the new market and eating house known as the Jurong Central Plaza, a two-storey complex that also includes a Senior Day Care Centre on the upper floor, providing valuable services to our elderly community members. The reason we were able to build the temporary market in just six weeks, instead of six months, was the unwavering commitment of the entire Government to support the hawkers during this crisis. This extraordinary achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of our partners. I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the donors, HDB, NEA, the Public Utilities Board (PUB), the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) and all the Government agencies whose collective effort made this a reality. During this period, from 2016 to 2018, my team and I effectively became the developers and operators of the temporary market. We gained a deeper understanding of the hawkers’ challenges and the nuances of operating a hawker stall. I recall that when we first provided the list of available stalls managed by NEA to the cooked food stallholders affected by the fire, their initial concern was rental rates. When they learned that some stalls could be rented for as low as $1 per month, they were immediately skeptical. The hawkers were forthright, expressing that while rental rates were important, their primary concern was foot traffic and community reach.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, in the early hours of 11 October 2016, I received an urgent call from my volunteers: a fire had broken out in a market in Jurong Central. Rushing to the scene, I found the wet market and an adjacent eating house completely destroyed. Another nearby coffee shop was also severely damaged and would remain closed for months. Immediately, we rallied our volunteers to support the affected hawkers, who were devastated by the loss of their businesses. I reached out to NEA for a list of alternative cooked food stalls and market stalls at nearby hawker centres in the West, offering the hawkers a temporary place to continue their livelihoods while we began to explore options for rebuilding. With the help of South West CDC, we were able to quickly provide emergency relief funds to support them through those first difficult days. But the challenge was far from over. We faced two options: either construct a temporary market within six to 12 months or undertake a faster rebuild of the burnt market back to the original condition, which would take 12 to 18 months. Building a temporary market would cost about $750,000 – a daunting figure that we would have to fundraise. After consulting with the hawkers, nearby residents, volunteers, construction experts and the Government agencies, we chose to go ahead with a temporary market for several reasons. Firstly, the hawkers wanted to stay close to their original market location to continue serving their loyal customers. They needed to earn their livelihood. Secondly, residents valued the convenience of having their favourite stalls nearby. Lastly, we saw an opportunity not just to restore what was lost but to create something better for the hawkers, the community and the residents.”
“I thank the Senior Minister of State for the comprehensive reply. Can I have a couple of supplementary questions? Firstly, can the Senior Minister of State explain if there is a big difference between an IT professional and an AI professional? Because the Estimates Committee noted that the CCP through the Ministry, has produced 190 individuals who are able to transit to become AI professionals as mid-career people. I want to ask whether they have plans to increase these conversion programmes, in terms of the frequency of the programmes and the number of programmes? Because the Ministry has stated that they want to convert 5,000 mid-career professionals to AI professionals over the next three to five years. The number 190 compared to 5,000, is quite a far cry. How have the private sectors chipped in and how many mid-career professionals have they converted to become AI professionals?”
“Thank you, Speaker, and also to the Senior Minister of State for the comprehensive reply. I have three supplementary questions. Firstly, for those 11 Neighbourhood Centres that have been informed that they have been selected, when can we start implementing and asking the shop owners to vote? So far, I have not gotten a response from HDB on this portion. Secondly, construction costs have increased, and we also note that the subsidies for the shop owners have increased but that the total budget allocated for the ROS has not increased significantly, despite the construction cost increase over the last three years by, maybe up to 50%. We noted that there is a bit more grants for the shop front, but the total construction cost still remains an issue. Thirdly, for some of the shop owners, if they find that they have difficulty paying even the co-payment, is HDB prepared to allow them to pay by instalments? And lastly, if the ROS is successfully implemented and some of the shop owners refuse to pay, what is the recourse that HDB has?”
“I thank the Senior Minister of State for the comprehensive reply. I am not so sure we note that there is a WhatsApp message circulating around to allow the more IT-savvy Singaporeans to use PayNow to transfer the $200 LifeSG money to their savings account through some other payment apps. I am not so sure that is the intention of the Ministry to allow such easy transfers. Secondly, I hope that with this $200 LifeSG movement, we will not increase the divide between the digitally-savvy and non-digitally-savvy Singaporeans, but rather to bridge the gap. So, we hope that beyond what you have done, maybe we can encourage more Community Centres to help make it easier for the non-IT savvy Singaporeans to get their $200 credits.”
“Despite my above clarifications and suggestions, I firmly support the Bill. This is about recognising the hard work and contributions of platform workers and giving them the protection and respect they deserve.”
“I would like to ask the Senior Minister of State, how can we ensure that platform workers do not lose their rightful benefits because of the free market forces? (In English): Mr Speaker, Sir, I have four further clarifications. Firstly, does the Bill empower the new platform work associations to negotiate with taxi companies that are not platform operators? If so, can the new platform work associations also negotiate with private hire car rental companies, which are prevalent and currently not regulated by the Land Transport Authority (LTA)? Secondly, how many platform workers are non-Singaporeans? While private hire car and taxi driving is limited to Singaporeans, many delivery workers are permanent residents (PRs). Will the platform work associations represent these PRs? Thirdly, section 39(4) states that at least two-thirds of the officers of every registered platform work association must be active platform service providers. Why two-thirds? Should this proportion not be higher, given that the associations are meant for platform workers? In addition, should officers of these platform work associations be required to work a minimum number of hours each month to better stay connected and relevant to the platform workers? Fourthly, the Ninth Schedule amends the WICA 2019 to mandate platform operators' liability for work injury compensation. This is particularly beneficial to food delivery workers, who currently lack insurance coverage. However, for platform drivers, injuries from road accidents could be covered under a car insurance policy if the driver is not at fault. How would MOM advise platform drivers on whether to claim through their car insurance or the work injury compensation insurance for road accidents?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, in Mandarin, please. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] If the Platform Workers Bill is passed, it will be a historic turning point, providing better protection for 70,000 platform workers. To safeguard platform workers' housing and retirement needs, those under 30 will need to contribute to their CPF while platform operators must also make employer's CPF contributions for platform workers. Although platform workers' take-home pay will decrease, however, with the addition of CPF contributions from the platform operators, they will have more CPF funds to buy a home and accumulate more savings for retirement. Additionally, the Bill requires platform operators to purchase workplace injury compensation insurance for platform workers to better protect their interests if work-related injuries happen. However, the cost will ultimately be borne by someone. Will platform operators transfer this increased cost to consumers? In other words, will private hire car fares increase? Will food delivery fees be raised as a result? These are important issues we must pay attention to. Especially in Singapore, most platform operators are still operating at a loss and are struggling to become profitable. Therefore, I would like to ask the Senior Minister of State what specific measures can be taken to curb platform operators from raising prices and passing on the increased cost to consumers? Furthermore, platform operators may also reduce benefits for platform workers in order to lower their operating cost. If this happens, platform workers will be affected and will not be able to enjoy the protection they deserve.”
“I urge MOM to consider raising the employer's CPF contribution rates for all Singaporean employees aged 55 to 65 to match those below 55, aligning with the standards MOM imposed on platform operators. There was once an argument that older workers between 55 and 65 were less productive, making them less attractive hires. However, with the tight labour market and no significant drop in the productivity for this age group, most employers no longer consider lower CPF contribution rates for the older workers as a critical factor in hiring decisions. I urge MOM to stand firm in protecting our older workers by raising their employer's CPF contribution rates, ensuring that they receive the same respect and support as their younger colleagues. Perhaps, the Government Service, being the largest employer in Singapore, can take the lead. Let us return to our platform workers. Currently, they are paid based on their productivity. Whether it is a 30-year-old or a 65-year-old private hire driver, their job is to safely transport passengers from point A to point B. Similarly, whether food is delivered by a younger platform worker or an older one, the service remains the same. Age should not dictate the value of their work. So, why should platform operators contribute less to older platform workers' CPF after 2027 when their productivity per job basis remains unchanged? I urge MOM to consider maintaining the platform operator's CPF contribution rate for platform workers below 65, even beyond 2027. For those above 65, some may argue that they are more prone to workplace injuries, potentially leading to higher insurance costs. In such cases, a slightly lower CPF contribution rate might be justified, but we should always strive to balance fairness with practicality.”
“I recall knowing one particular taxi driver who used to deliver for GrabFood. For some reasons, he was banned from the GrabFood platform. When he switched to becoming a taxi driver, he found himself banned from GrabCar and GrabTaxi platforms as well, even though these services were not directly linked to GrabFood platform. In this case, I had to appeal on his behalf. With the new platform work associations, platform workers like him will have someone to turn to. Platform workers will be better protected, no longer left to fend for themselves. If the Platform Worker Bill is passed, platform workers will also be required to contribute to their CPF accounts. While this may mean a slight drop in their take-home pay, it ultimately secures their future with higher overall earnings from the CPF contributions to the platform operators. The CPF contributions will help in their housing and retirement needs. Thus, I applaud the Government's initiative to offset 100% of the increase in CPF contributions to the Ordinary and Special Accounts for low-income platform workers in 2025, making this transition smoother for those who need it most. I also commend the move to keep CPF contribution rates consistent for platform workers below 65 from 2025 to 2027 as mandated in the Fourth Schedule. This is a positive departure from the current practice, where employers contribute less for those aged 55 to 65 compared to younger workers. Many of us, especially those in this House, agree that the 60s today are the new 50s. People are healthier, active and can contribute just as much as their younger counterparts. This is one of the reasons why MOM is raising the retirement age.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of the Platform Worker Bills. First, I wish to declare my interest as the CEO of Strides Premier, a company that hires out limousines, private hire cars and taxis. New technology has created new jobs and platform work is one of them. Today, over 70,000 platform workers in Singapore are working very hard every day to provide essential services and they deserve our support. However, many platform operators in Singapore are still struggling financially. In 2023, last year, Grab reported a loss of $485 million and Delivery Hero, the parent company of Foodpanda, lost 2.3 billion euros. These figures highlight the uncertainties faced by platform workers, who have little control over their financial security. I am heartened to see that sections 16 to 18 of the Bill prioritise payments to platform workers over most other debts if a platform operator goes bankrupt. Without this protection, many workers would be left vulnerable and unable to recover what is rightfully theirs. The most notable part of the Bill is Part 3, which paves the way for the formation of platform work associations. NTUC has already announced its intention to register a new platform work association with MOM, which will formally represent platform workers and dissolve the National Private Hire Vehicles Association, National Delivery Champions Association and the National Taxi Association, which has the longest history. These new associations will give platform workers a voice, a place where their concerns are heard and their needs are addressed. This is a significant milestone for a group that has often felt unheard and they can now be more appropriately represented by the new platform work associations.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, I thank the Minister of State for the comprehensive reply. I have a few supplementary questions. Firstly, can the Minister of State reveal what are the resources devoted to monitor such hostile interference and how would the Ministry of Home Affairs scale up the resources in a sensitive period? Thirdly, are there other hostile interferences, maybe not as large scale as the one that was just mentioned, but especially of those sponsored by the state?”
“Thank you, Deputy Speaker, and thank you to the Second Minister for Finance for the comprehensive reply. Can I ask supplementary questions to the Minister? What is the time frame for assessing and approving the deal proposed by Income and Allianz? And secondly, what is MAS' assessment of the current Income's financial viability and stability vis-a-vis the rest of the insurance companies in Singapore, particularly, the life insurance companies in Singapore? And, thirdly, can I just clarify again that when MAS evaluates whether to approve the deal, it is looking more at financial viability as well as protecting existing policyholders, rather than whether Income and Allianz will fulfil their commitment to provide affordable insurance to the policyholders?”
“Mr Speaker, I thank the Minister for Transport for the comprehensive replies to our queries. Can I just clarify with the Minister that he said that the Chairman and the CEO of the designated equity interest holder need approval by MOT? If so, does it mean that a foreign company, which is a holding company that majority owns a designated operating entity in Singapore, needs approval from MOT, even if the foreign company is a listed company in their home country? That means if they are listed and not in Singapore, they also require their Chairman and their group CEO to be approved by MOT?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, notwithstanding the above clarifications and questions, I stand in support of the Bill.”
“Will it enlist staff experienced in managing essential transport services to strengthen its bench strength during peace time in preparation for such contingencies? Will there be sufficient experience personnel and capabilities within MOT ready to step in and fill the gap? Fourthly, it is worth noting that point-to-point (P2P) platform service providers are currently not regulated under the Transport Sector (Critical Firms) Bill. However, disruptions to such platform services could have far-reaching implications for those who rely on this means of transport for their daily commute or other purposes. I understand earlier from the Minister that the passenger volume at Changi Airport is about 59 million a year. In contrast, the P2P platform serves more than 180 million passengers a year – about three times compared to passenger volume in Changi Airport. Thus, will MOT consider designating such platform providers as the designated entities? Lastly, within large organisations, essential transport services and specific capabilities may reside within specific divisions or departments of the large organisations. How would MOT validate their capabilities and readiness to provide such services in both peacetime and crisis? Would MOT consider mandating this entities as separate companies for better streamlined regulation and administration? These questions and suggestions are raised to ensure the efficacy and comprehensiveness of the Transport Sector (Critical Firms) Bill. As we navigate the intricate terrain of our transport landscape, let us remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding the interests of our nation. Therefore, I eagerly await the Minister's response to address the above five points.”
“Mr Speaker Sir, I would like to declare my interest as the CEO of Strides Premier, a subsidiary of SMRT. Against the backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions, it is imperative that Singapore takes proactive measures to safeguard the operations of its essential transport services. The Transport Sector (Critical Firms) Bill stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to fortify the resilience and security of our transport networks. I wholeheartedly support this Bill. Nonetheless, I would like to bring forth a few clarifications and suggestions for consideration. Firstly, for transparency, there will be a need to establish clear criteria for evaluating the suitability of the Chairmen and CEOs of designated entities. Should these pivotal positions be reserved exclusively for Singaporeans, or should Permanent Residents also be considered? Furthermore, what stance should we adopt regarding foreigners occupying these critical roles? Secondly, when a designated operating entity is predominantly owned by a specific equity interest holder, key personnel of the said equity holder could have significant influence over the designated operating entity's operations. What mechanisms would MOT employ to ensure that the Chairmen and the CEOs of such designated equity entities are aligned with the public interest of Singapore? How would MOT respond if a designated equity interest holder is not aligned with Singapore's interests? Thirdly, in the unfortunate event of a designated operating entity failing to provide essential transport services safely and reliably, we understand MOT stands prepared to issue a Special Administration Order. We are keen to understand how MOT has been preparing for such an eventuality.”
“Thank you, Mr Speaker. Thank you to the Minister for the reply. For cases where some of the patients who upgrade, but they are not financially very strong, is it possible for them to appeal not to pay for the entire duration at the higher ward class, if they select just after the operation? The second supplementary question is, many a time, my residents tell me, when they are in the higher ward class in the previous hospitalisation period, and when they get to the next round of hospitalisation and they request a downgrade, they are often not allowed to. The only time they can escape this is when they are admitted to the Accident and Emergency (A&E), then they can go to a lower ward class. Can the Minister clarify these two points?”
“Question No 3, Sir. The Second Minister for National Development (Ms Indranee Rajah) (for the Minister for National Development): Mr Speaker, may I have your permission to answer Question Nos 3 and 4 together.”
“Thank you, Speaker. But at this point in time, when a member of the public or the schools call the Police for help in vaping enforcement, they will be asked to refer it to HSA. So, I hope HSA can work with the different agencies to have a no-wrong-door policy to deal with this feedback, rather than all go to HSA, which is a very modest set-up, as you said. We do not want to have a young generation that is a vaping generation in Singapore.”
“Thank you, Speaker. Thank you to Ms Rahayu for the comprehensive reply. I just want to ask a couple of supplementary questions. The first is: has the size of HSA's enforcement team grown for the past three years, since I see that the figures for violations for vaping have increased quite steadily? Two, is the agency also getting help from the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) and the Police Force to help in the enforcement. Three, we read about the multi-agency approach to vaping enforcement as well as the importing of vaping equipment. Can Ms Rahayu give more details on how this is set up and what are the key performance indicators (KPIs) to be met?”
“Thank you, Chairman. I have a clarification for the Senior Parliamentary Secretary Rahayu on vaping. Could Senior Parliamentary Secretary share, how many cases of feedback that the HSA received from the public, from the police and from the CNB respectively in 2023? And can she share, what is the size of the enforcement team at HSA and what is your assessment of the effectiveness of the enforcement action by HSA? These are the questions I have asked in my cuts.”
“If the Minister is not satisfied, I would question whether relying solely on HSA as the enforcement authority against vaping is sufficient. Considering the Government's concern that vaping is harmful, I would like to ask the Minister whether the Minister thinks that vaping is more harmful than smoking or it is about the same as smoking. But if vaping is harmful and we think that we need to enforce with greater strength, I would like to suggest that agencies like the Central Narcotics Bureau and the Police, with their larger enforcement personnel, could assist in the anti-vaping efforts. Healthcare Costs and Productivity”
“Regrettably, similar incidents seem commonplace, as echoed by my residents from their experiences. One friend, in particular, recounted reporting a vaping incident to the Police. Then the Police redirected her to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). Despite her complaint, there was no follow-up from HSA. Probably, HSA does not have sufficient resources to follow-through. Vaping poses a significant problem in schools, with many students obtaining vaping accessories from family members, including their parents. To combat this issue, we must intensify the efforts to raise awareness about the harms of vaping and promote responsible behaviour. Initiatives, such as the "Truth Initiative" campaign by the United States' Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have proven to be effective in reducing vaping prevalence through public education. While education is crucial, strict enforcement is equally necessary. We are pleased with the recent Government measures to curb vaping imports and restrict its use in schools and public spaces. However, questions linger regarding the adequacy and effectiveness of the enforcement actions. I have just visited HSA's website. It is concerning that the Chairman and CEO of HSA did not even mention anything about enforcement action against vaping in their messages on the website. On the website, the messages are on the front of the website; no mention about anti-vaping measures. This raises doubts about the priority placed on anti-vaping efforts within HSA. Hence, I urge the Minister to provide insights into the size and effectiveness of the HSA's enforcement team and whether the Minister is satisfied with the current state of the vaping scene in Singapore.”
“Many young Singaporeans, including residents from Nanyang, possess a strong desire to pursue careers in medicine. Unfortunately, the doors to the local medical schools remain largely closed to the majority, despite their excellent results. It is disheartening to note that Singaporean students with perfect GCE "A" level scores of 90 points have been turned away from our medical schools. As a result, some have to go overseas to study medicine, imposing a significant financial burden on their parents and contributing to a brain drain from Singapore. We understand that about 2,400 Singaporeans applied to medical schools at the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) every year but were rejected due to an intake of only about 510 students per cohort. Singapore's doctor-to-population ratio stands at 2.8 doctors per 1,000 people, which is quite low compared to countries like the United Kingdom, 3.2; United States, 3.6; Australia, 4.1; and the EU average of 4.3 doctors per 1,000 people. Given our ageing population, there is room for an increase in the number of doctors in Singapore. Thus, I would like to inquire if MOH is prepared to collaborate with the Ministry of Education (MOE) to expand the number of vacancies in the medical schools at NUS, NTU and Duke-NUS. Meanwhile, I also receive feedback that junior doctors in local public hospitals have overwhelming workloads, particularly during their housemanship. I would like to ask if MOH is prepared to take measures to ease their burden, which is vital for both their well-being and the patient care quality. Vaping Chairman, during a recent cycling trip to Serangoon East Dam, I was dismayed to witness a group of teenagers openly vaping.”
“Chairman, I am deeply concerned about the recent report in The Straits Times regarding the predicament of 12 ambulances, out of a fleet of 92 Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) ambulances, being stuck at Changi General Hospital on 29 January 2024. This situation is alarming and warrants immediate attention. Regrettably, the situation in the West does not appear to be any better. Residents in Nanyang have voiced their frustrations over prolonged wait times at hospital A&E departments, with some even having to endure further delays in securing a hospital bed, often relegated to corridors along hospital wards. Singapore's ratio of hospital beds per 1,000 people stood at approximately 2.55 in 2023, last year. This figure pales in comparison to countries like the United States – 2.8 beds; China – 5.2 beds; and Japan – 12.6 beds. In light of our ageing population, I would like to ask the Minister for Health if he believes that we have insufficient number of hospital beds in Singapore right now. If so, is MOH prepared to expedite the construction of additional hospitals beyond those already slated for development? Chairman, many residents in the West, particularly those in Nanyang, encounter difficulties securing appointments at Pioneer Polyclinic. Given the demographic shift towards an ageing population, I would like to inquire whether MOH has plans to build additional polyclinics in Jurong West to alleviate these concerns. 7.00 pm Adequacy of Medical Staff I would like to extend my congratulations to MOH for recruiting 5,000 nurses, surpassing the initial target of 4,000 last year. However, this success raises concerns about whether we have enough doctors to meet healthcare demands.”
“Chairman, I have one clarification for Senior Minister of State Amy Khor. I want to declare my interest as the CEO of Strides Premier. We welcome the announcement to extend the lifespan of taxis to 10 years in order to make taxi operations more viable. However, I am not really sure if these new measures are too little, too late. I hope not because I hope that the next phase of the P2P industry review will provide more good news. One of the biggest advantages of PHCs over taxis is that the PHC drivers can allow his friends, relatives or family members to drive the PHC when he is not driving his PHC for business. But a taxi driver cannot. I would like to ask Senior Minister of State Amy Khor how could MOT further level the playing field between a taxi and a PHC? Otherwise, we will continue to see the demise of the taxi industry.”
“I would like to declare my interest as the advisor to the Singapore Port Workers Union (SPWU). In view of the resurgence of shipping activities post-COVID-19 and with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) declaring a record annual vessel arrival tonnage at the Port of Singapore last year, I would like to seek an update from MOT regarding the readiness of our ports to accommodate the rising demand. Specifically, I am keen to know if the Mega Port Development in Tuas is on schedule. In addition, I would also like to ask what is the current workforce size at the Tuas port as of February 2024? Are there any strategies in place to enhance connectivity for the benefit of port workers? Meanwhile, I understand that many PSA port workers rely on chartered bus services provided at PSA for transportation. However, I am concerned about the sustainability of this arrangement in the long run. Therefore, I enquire if there are plans to introduce a feeder bus service connecting Tuas port with the nearest MRT station, which is Tuas Link MRT station, to address this concern. As we continue to develop the Tuas port, it is essential to prioritise the welfare of our port workers. I look forward to receiving updates on these matters from MOT. Developing Our Maritime Sector”
“With the recent completion of new cycling paths spanning from East Coast Park to Pasir Ris Park, cyclists, especially those residing in the East, now enjoy added convenience. However, there remains a pressing need for more cycling infrastructure in the West, particularly for residents in the far-western areas like Nanyang. I, therefore, kindly request an update from MOT regarding the cycling path plan for the Western region, specifically in the Nanyang, Gek Poh and Pioneer estates, whether they have the progress of these plans. One resident from Nanyang expressed his aspiration for a cycling path connecting his HDB void deck to Pioneer or Boon Lay MRT station, as well as to Jurong Lake Garden which was just completed last year, thereby providing seamless connectivity to the rest of the island through Park Connectors. I earnestly hope that MOT can work towards realising his dream earlier rather than later. Singapore-Kuala Lumpur High Speed Rail”
“Chairman, currently, LTA solely focuses on constructing covered walkways within a 400-metre radius of MRT stations, and a 200-metre radius of bus interchanges and limited number of bus stops. However, this approach neglects many other major bus stops that are linked to town centres, markets, hawker centres, polyclinics and other essential amenities that are not situated near MRT stations or bus interchanges. Since 2013, and on several occasions in this House thereafter, I have consistently urged LTA to consider expanding the covered walkway network to connect not only to MRT stations and bus interchanges, but also to other significant bus stops. Given Singapore's hot and humid weather, coupled with occasional rain, as well as its ageing population, I strongly urge LTA to prioritise making the first-mile and last-mile walking journeys more accessible, more comfortable and more convenient at all major bus stops across Singapore. Enhancing the walking experience not only helps to improve public transport ridership, it also contributes to promoting a healthy lifestyle, meeting our Healthier SG objective. Should LTA face financial constraints, I propose that MOT collaborates with the Ministry of Health (MOH) to leverage on the Healthier SG fund for more covered walkways. Improving the walking experience requires a coordinated effort across various Government departments and agencies. Silver Zone”
“I would like to begin by declaring my interest as the CEO of Strides Premier, a company that leases out 300 EVs from a total fleet of about 4,000 vehicles. I would like to extend my gratitude to LTA for their collaborative efforts with partners in installing slow chargers at Housing and Development Board (HDB) car parks, thereby contributing to the development of Singapore's EV infrastructure. A crucial objective of EV conversion is to mitigate carbon emissions in Singapore. Therefore, it is imperative to prioritise the conversion of vehicles used for higher mileage. One prominent group of such users comprises taxi and PHC drivers, who typically cover a range of 200 to 300 kilometres per day during a single shift. If you are on double shift, it could be up to 450 kilometres. Given their extensive coverage, relying solely on overnight charging via slow chargers at the HDB car parks may not suffice to sustain their daily operations. Additional fast charging sessions during breaks, such as lunch or dinner, become necessary. I propose that LTA strategically installs fast chargers near high-traffic hawker centres and major eateries to enhance operational efficiency for these drivers. Such a initiative would incentivise more taxi and PHC drivers to transition to EVs, thereby benefiting not only themselves but also contributing to the well-being of the planet. Rollout of EV Charging Locations for P2P”