Arthur Beng Kian Lam
Singapore
“Sir, the aim of the Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) is to encourage optimal road usage so that car ownership can be increased. My questions to the Minister are (1) what is the estimated cost to a motorist, ie, the median, that the Ministry of Communications is expecting?”
“Sir, one point of clarification, please. I am very pleased to hear the announcement made by the Senior Minister of State about the very comprehensive way in which IT is going to be applied in schools. I am also very glad to hear that six more computers are going to be added to the existing five for administration.”
“Sir, my topic is on public transport in mature HDB estates. Sir, we are all excited about the plans to achieve a world-class public transport system. However, as many of the mature towns have little or no reserve land, it would seem that the bus will still be the mainstay of transportation. I would like to ask the Minister two questions.”
“The Minister has implemented a paradigm shift in his approach to personnel management. The new salary scales announced are welcomed and will do much to raise the morale of the teachers. I am glad to hear that the Minister recognises the principal as the CEO of a school. This gives a significant recognition to the role of the principal.”
“Sir, I am glad to know that the Minister will be taking active steps to implement the IMC and that he himself will be chairing the Ministerial Steering Committee which will include the Minister for Education and the Minister for Home Affairs.”
“However, upgrading is necessary as the business of the centre will be affected if the town is not upgraded, and experience has shown that the business in upgraded town centres indeed improves. Sir, the HDB or MND earns from the sale of shops. Should not a sum from this be allocated to town councils for the upgrading process?”
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“Today, room rates in Singapore are 40% lower than that in Hong Kong and 30% lower than that in Indonesia. They are equivalent to that of Malaysia. The Singapore Hotel Association estimates that a new five-star hotel of about 500-room size can expect to lose $1 1/2 million per month under present circumstances. The ultimate answer to the woes of the hotel industry is, of course, to increase the inflow of tourists and to encourage them to stay longer. The Singapore Tourist Promotion Board is sparing no effort to attract major sporting and other events of international standing to Singapore. 1986 saw the first in-shore power boat race ever organized in Asian waters held in Marina Bay in November. 1987 will see Singapore hosting the Miss Universe pageant and in 1988 the International Garden Festival. Hotels, however, should also be encouraged to conduct more promotions overseas. To this end, I would like the Minister for Finance to reconsider a previous request by the hotels that they be given double taxation relief to market overseas, as is being enjoyed by the manufacturing sector. This could be in the form of official overseas marketing missions organized under the STPB banner. Another aim of this mission could be to encourage more chartered flights of tourists to Singapore. As the Singapore Tourist Promotion Board endeavours to attract more international sporting and other events to Singapore, another problem has arisen. This is the taxation of prize money by the Inland Revenue Department. Perhaps the Minister would like to consider exempting the prize money from taxation or granting special status to these events so that it may be more attractive to bring these events to Singapore. Sir, I would now like to turn to the Defence budget.”
“The Ministry has had a very successful four-month campaign last year to educate the public. Twelve months after the campaign, the absolute number of attendances fell by 8,000 or 21.6% from 37,000 per month to 29,000 per month. More significantly, the number of non-emergency cases presenting themselves at the A&E Departments fell from 60% to 20%. In the Straits Times report on Friday, 13th March, the closing paragraph reads thus: 'In thanking the public for its cooperation the Ministry also said, "We would like to urge the public to continue to seek medical attention for all non-emergencies from GPs and OPD clinics and to reserve the use of A&E Department for emergency cases.' In thanking the public for its cooperation, the Ministry has instead raised A&E charges. How paradoxical! What I seek from the Minister for Finance in citing this example is clarification as to what is meant by "minimal subsidies". What will be the guidelines for implementation of this philosophy? If this is not carefully monitored, we may see escalating charges for even essential basic services. The next area that I would like to focus on is a sector of our economy which is still facing immense problems - the tourism industry. In 1986, the average room occupancy was 64.7%. This, however, does not tell the whole story as the room rates for even our five-star hotels have dropped about 40%. A single-room now would cost $70-$80 per night. Tourist arrivals in January 1987 increased by 8% over January 1986. This is a good sign but not quite enough when one takes into account the fact that there are 15% more rooms in February 1987 compared to February 1986. Another 2,000 rooms are expected to come into the market over the next 24 months.”
“This is a step in the right direction as it will provide for clear directions and stability in the realm of wages. Sir, I would now like to seek clarification from the Minister for Finance as to what he means when he stated in the Budget presentation, and I quote: 'We must ensure that Government programmes should be self-financing as far as possible, with minimal subsidies.' The level of subsidies for tertiary education has been reviewed and the rationale explained. This I find acceptable. However, I am disappointed at the recently announced increases in health fees, especially the charges in the Accident and Emergency Department. In 1985, the Government expenditure in the A&E programme was $14.4 million. The estimated expenditure for 1987 is $14.1 million, a lower figure. My guess is that the lower figure of $14.1 million would be based on the new charges. Sir, the Accident and Emergency Department is providing an essential service. People turn to the Department only in a time of special need. They want this medical care urgently. Many would be cases of traumatic injury. Others are medical emergencies, as understood by the layman. To slap on separate fees for minor surgical procedures and investigations for A&E cases is totally unwarranted. As many are cases involving trauma, this would imply a need for minor surgical procedures, eg, the stitching of a wound or what is medically termed "toilet and suture". While the patient was paying $10 previously, he will be charged $20 now for the additional surgical procedure, double the previous charge. The last time A&E charges were reviewed, I remember that the reason given was the misuse of the Department, ie, it was added on as a deterrent.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of the motion. Sir, it is heartening to note that the economy is on the path to recovery following the depth of recession in 1985. However, as has been emphasized, the recovery is not across the board. The sectors that have performed well are manufacturing and transport and communications which make up half the economy. In the last year, the Government has helped to reduce operating costs and improve company profitability by lowering employer's CPF contribution rate , reduction of statutory charges and the 50% cut in property taxes. The more important effect of all these measures is that confidence has been restored in the economy. Investment commitments in 1986 showed a 27% growth over 1985 reaching $1.4 billion. Sir, I would now like to focus on three areas in which I would like to seek clarification from the Minister for Finance. The first area is what I would call the areas of uncertainty regarding the future directions of the Government. More specifically, I refer to the temporary adjustments that have been made. For example, the reduction of CPF, reduction of property taxes and statutory charges. Businessmen in Singapore and the foreign investors, I am sure, would like to know the medium term, if not the long-term Government policy with regard to these interim measures which have been implemented to cut operating costs. As stated in the Budget statement, even with these measures implemented, "Our competitive position against the other NICs weakened by as much as 50%." Thus, it would seem that the cost of operating a business in Singapore is still high. Should we thus not make longer term decisions regarding some of these cost factors? We are of course now dealing with wage reform.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I would like to ask the Minister three questions. Firstly, as the MRT trains will come into operation only in December 1987 and even then only on the north-south track from Yio Chu Kang to Toa Payoh to Outram Park, why is there a need to change bus fare structure as early as June and throughout Singapore? Can this not be done nearer the date and also in phases, complementing the MRT implementation? Secondly, in the restructuring of bus routes, will a choice be left to the bus commuter should he decide that he finds the MRT unaffordable? Thirdly, is there a body or committee which oversees integration? If so, who are the members of this committee and to whom do they report?”
“To quote from para- graph 19, they said, "why should the composer donate his services free?". I am again glad that the Select Committee stood firm in this case, especially when the petitioners in paragraph 21 have admitted no abuse of this clause to their knowledge to date in Singapore. We would thus not put on our students and teachers the onerous task of applying for permission or paying royalty when they perform "in the course of the activities of the institution" on occasions like National Day or their School Anniversary. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I support this Bill, and congratulate the Committee on the successful completion of what must have been an exhaustive and trying one. Thank you, Sir. 3.55 pm”
“Furthermore, it would immensely assist the public if the public could be informed of the procedure to apply for permission to use copyright works. I also hope that the procedure would be a simple one, eg, just filling out a simple form. Finally, Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am perturbed by the attitude shown in some of the representations made. But I am glad that the Select Committee has stood firm in asserting the sovereignty of independent Singapore and in seeking for a Bill which is fair both to the copyright owners and the public in Singapore. Let me just quote two instances. Example 1, Minimum Mandatory Sentences or Fine. The representation by the Motion Picture Association of America Inc. recommended minimum mandatory sentences or fines to the Select Committee, in spite of the Bill's intention to introduce hefty penalties. The Select Committee questioned in paragraph 212, page B41, why this was being urged on Singapore when neither the United States nor the United Kingdom (nor Australia in paragraph 210) have such a provision in their laws. The Select Committee wisely rejected this unfair imposition on Singapore. Example 2, Performances by School Bands and Orchestras. Sir, here I refer to the representation made by the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers on page B3. The Bill had sought to exempt School Bands and Orchestras from the Copyright Bill as long as the performances were made "in the course of the activities of the institution" (Clause 22(1)). The performance could be in the institution or outside the institution, but must be in the course of the activities of the institution. The International Confederation felt that this clause was unacceptable as seen in paragraphs 18-21 on page B3.”
“This problem would also apply to choral groups in schools or churches where maybe 40 or 50 copies of a song may be required. I hope the Hon. Minister will clarify on this clause. Sir, the next point that I would like to seek clarification is regarding the implementation of this Bill. Many of the areas covered in this Bill affect our activities of daily living, eg, photocopying, videotaping or screening of videotapes, use of overhead projectors, providing for piped music in waiting areas, offices, hotels or shopping complexes. Now, the danger is that one may unknowingly contravene the law. This fear is well expressed by the representation from the Singapore Hotel Association in Paper S.C. No.14 on page A86. In the third paragraph, the Executive Director of the Singapore Hotel Association expresses the fear that: 'For practical purposes, it is difficult for hotel operators, many of whom may not have sufficient knowledge of the subject matter to ascertain if a performance is an infringement of copyright.' Paragraph 4 also highlights the problem of control besides knowledge, as function rooms may be hired out to organizations who arrange for their own entertainment. These organizers, again being lay people, may also be ignorant of the Copyright laws. It is my view that in view of the complexity of the Copyright laws and the varying circumstances, the public should be protected from prosecution in that they should first be warned by the copyright owners or the authorities that there is an infringement of the law. A first warning also complies with the spirit of this Bill as it is meant to give the authorities the power to act against the recalcitrant or the big-time trafficker, not an ignorant first offender.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, when I spoke during the Second Reading of this Bill on the 5th May 1986, I expressed the concern that the Select Committee should not overlook the interests of the bona fide individual who may have a legitimate need for making a copy of a book or videotape for his own private or personal use as opposed to commercial purposes. I am glad that the Select Committee has been fair in its approach to provide for protection of consumer interests and, in particular, the interests of educationists, students and researchers. However, Sir, in this context, I would like to seek several clarifications. May I first refer to clause 136(7)? Here it is stated: '... any person who has in his possession 5 or more infringing copies of any work or other subject-matter shall, unless the contrary is proved, be presumed - (a) to be in possession of such copies otherwise than for private and domestic use; or (b) to be in possession of such copies for the purpose of sale.' Sir, my contention is that to presume guilt on the basis of possession of five copies may be too restrictive despite provisions made in clause 51 which refers to the Copying of Works in Educational Institutions. If we consider 40 students to a class in schools or tutorial groups of 10 in the University or an in-house seminar of a large multi-national company, this problem is evident. To presume guilt in this case "unless the contrary is proved" would place a heavy burden on the layman as it would involve consulting lawyers, legal expenses and also embarrassment. Indeed this fear is expressed by the written representation of the Consumers' Association of Singapore in Paper S.C. No. 15 on page A91, item 3, paragraph 1.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, can the Prime Minister tell us whether any other persons, in particular, officials of the Ministry of National Development, are implicated in the allegations for which the late Minister was being investigated?”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, now that Mr Teh has passed away, can the 1DPM tell us whether the two cases for which the late Mr Teh was investigated are now closed and, if not, what further action is being taken?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to ask the Minister, before we agreed to the visit of the Israeli President, did we have any idea that the reaction in Malaysia would be so vehement? The second question is: will the visit change Singapore's position on the Palestinian and Middle-East related issues?”
“The medical doctor and dentist have also, of late, been featured in the newspaper for improper conduct. As we strive to make Singapore a global city and centre of excellence, all Singaporeans and especially the professionals must strive to maintain high standards of professional and ethical code. But not everyone is a crook nor should one be considered guilty before being given a fair hearing. This is very important because in professional matters, views can vary greatly. Two doctors or lawyers may in good conscience disagree on what is best for the client. Thus the inclusion of a layman in the professional inquiry committee and as an observer in the disciplinary committee is a step in the right direction. The very act of opening these inquiries and their results to the public in the form of publications is a reassurance to the public. May I conclude by urging the Government to consider implementing the principles enshrined in this Bill, ie, protection of the public and dialogue with professional bodies across the board, to all professions if and when the need arises. 12.55 pm”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of the amendment Bill. Sir, the amendment Bill was widely debated in the House during its Second Reading. Subsequently, in Select Committee, the Bill was further scrutinized and the views of the Law Society were taken into consideration. The Minister for Law and the Select Committee have carefully considered all views aired and have modified the original Bill to incorporate some of the views of the legal profession. This, in my mind, is concrete proof to all Singaporeans of the good intention of the Government in first proposing this Bill. It is not to muzzle anyone or any professional body but to meet a specific need that the Bill was introduced. The need is to ensure that the interest of the public is protected. The public places immense trust in the hands of the lawyer. Transactions involving millions or billions of dollars, conveyancing of property, and the advice of lawyers to construct wills and trusteeships call for a high standard of professional integrity. The lay person is heavily dependent on the advice of his lawyer to ensure that his affairs are in order both before and even after his death. Thus it is imperative that the public is protected. While we are debating the Legal Profession (Amendment) Bill, we must not forget that likewise the onus of responsibility is the same for all professions. The main aim, we must remember, is to protect the public. The Securities Industry Bill passed earlier this year serves to regulate the securities industry and give added protection to the investor. The collapse of the Hotel New World is a good eye-opener to all of us who have for years taken for granted the work of architects, surveyors, engineers, contractors and all those involved in the construction industry.”
“The members of the press have been so quiet towards his accusations. I tried to understand why they have not defended themselves. I realized that if they replied to these accusations, it may be perceived by the public that they are using their own columns to their own advantage. This is indeed self-discipline and a responsible press. The other point is that, if they replied to these accusations, it would only give credibility to these accusations. Mr Speaker, Sir, I would just like to touch on the other two points briefly. Secondly, there are three million tourists or visitors to Singapore every year. We have thousands of expatriates from all over the world working in Singapore. Singaporeans make thousands of visits overseas every month. Can we remain insulated? I do not think so. Lastly, Mr Speaker, Sir, it has been mentioned by my various colleagues that the world is now tuned in to each other. Modern telecommunications will keep us in touch with the world and we will not be insulated from the rest of the world. 12.38 pm”
“He asked whether ours is a responsible press. He calls our society a faceless society. Who is humiliating us, the Government or the Opposition Member? Mr Speaker, Sir, I think he has not only humiliated one or two persons, he has humiliated a whole profession, all our journalists, and this morning he has humiliated all Singaporeans. I asked myself, why?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, it has been expressed by the two Opposition Members that, with the passing of this Bill, freedom of speech and expression in Singapore will be in jeopardy. There are some who feel that we will be insulating ourselves from the views of foreigners about ourselves. Can this be so? Sir, may I just make three observations? Firstly, it is not the intention of the Bill to ban foreign publications totally. The aim is to restrict circulation and to deny profit to those who are consistently irresponsible in reporting. Our local journalists, I believe, being enlightened professionals will continue to have access to most publications. Likewise, those in the intellectual and academic circles, should these persons feel strongly that they agree with the views of the foreign press, I am sure they will have no hesitation in putting forth these ideas in print in their own publications. And we have thousands of local publications, all publicly air their views. However, the difference is that these are people with a vested interest in Singapore. They are Singaporeans and I believe they will be responsible in their reporting. The Opposition Member for Anson has made these remarks. "Why must the Government ridicule and humiliate our citizens?" See what he has said. He has labelled the press "a gutter press" and these are his remarks regarding the press: "no investigative journalism in Singapore; no ability to grasp the essentials". He is ashamed of the press in Singapore.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, on a point of clarification. How does this apply to shops?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise to seek clarification from the Minister regarding section 29 (2) which reads: 'Notwithstanding anything contained in any tenancy or licence agreement or sale and purchase ....., the Board shall have the power to vary, with the approval of the Minister, the rent, licence fees or maintenance fees fixed under subsection (1).' Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like the Minister to clarify. Does this mean that, after tendering for a unit for rental, say, a shophouse, at any time the Minister can vary the rent, that he can change the rent at any time? Sir, I would also like to declare pecuniary interest in raising this point.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of this Bill. As the Minister has stated, such amendments to the law are necessary if we want to develop Singapore's computer software and publishing industries. In view of the fact that this Bill will be referred to Select Committee, I will not speak on the specific provisions. I only wish to make one general point. It is that while I appreciate the need to stamp out large-scale pirating of books, cassettes and computer software, we should not altogether overlook the interests of the bona fide individual who may have legitimate need for making a copy of a book or video tape for his own private or personal use as opposed to commercial purposes. By all means, go after the large-scale pirates. They constitute the real threat and a real problem as I understand it. The making of copies for personal private use ought to be treated differently. There must be a difference between a person making one copy and a person making 10,000 copies for sale. I see that in clause 108 of the Bill, exception is already made for recording of TV broadcasts for private and domestic use. Can the same principle not be extended to areas mentioned? Sir, the problem of students has already been mentioned. Here, I note that even today there are editions of books called the Asian Editions which are printed for students, especially those in tertiary institutiions which are sold at about half the price. Perhaps while we tighten our laws, we should also encourage companies to continue such pratices so that these books will still be available to our students. Sir, I hope the Minister and the Select Committee will consider these points.”
“Sir, may I rise on a point of clarification with the Minister of State. The Minister of State has mentioned that the MPs who are requesting for further subsidies should approach the Ministry of Finance. Do I take it then that we have the support of the People's Association Board and the Minister of State? Mr Ch'ng Jit Koon( In Mandarin): Sir, I said just now that I would ask the People's Association to look into the suggestions. If there are good reasons to support, PA will then take it up with the Ministry of Finance.”
“I think the appeal is most appropriate and in the current times of recession when there is difficulty in raising funds, I think we should get the Minister for Community Development to take up with the Minister for Finance to get funds on a one-to-two basis.”
“I now move on to my second point which concerns the development of the Islamic Centre which will be built soon. Having regard to the fact that the Islamic Centre will become the central point for the development of Islamic Religious Knowledge, I am desirous to know whether plans are already afoot to ensure that the image of the Centre is maintained, as befitting its name. Within this framework, it includes the organizing of forums, seminars and so on as well as the attendance of leading Islamic dignitaries and scholars to deliver talks and lectures. This requires appropriate forward-planning because, if this is not done early, then when this Centre is built, I do not wish it to be left there standing, in name only. In view of the foregoing remarks, I hope MUIS will give serious consideration to my suggestions as I think by the end of 1987 or early 1988 the Islamic Centre will be completed. Encik Othman bin Haron Eusofe (Geylang Serai): Sir, I have an amendment under Subhead JM-01 which is the financing of the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura. But I would not go into that today because of the shortage of time. I would like to take this opportunity to lend my support to the appeal which has been made by the Member for Fengshan for the Ministry of Finance's contribution for the development of community centres to be made on a one-to-two basis. I think Members here are aware of the difficulties which our community workers have to experience when they have to raise funds for the development of community centres. Some of the facilities which are now considered appropriate for Phase 2 of the building of community centres are really facilities which are required when we start building the community centres. These are squash courts, kindergartens and health centres.”
“' My question is: what steps are being taken by MUIS to control and approve the administration of all types of religious schools in Singapore, and also what steps are being taken by MUIS to coordinate the curricula of such religious schools? In my opinion, this matter is of crucial importance in order to ensure that our children receive proper religious education of the same standard in Singapore. I hope the Minister in charge will clarify the matter. Encik Wan Hussin bin Haji Zoohri (Kampong Ubi)( In Malay): Sir, I have two matters which I wish to raise with the Minister in charge regarding MUIS. The first point concerns additional staff for the Syariah Court. I raised this issue last year and was informed that an additional Muslim Social Case Worker (MSCW) had been given to the Syariah Court. However, in view of the ever-increasing number of cases over the years, I consider that the additional post provided for is inadequate. I therefore appeal that another MSCW be given this year so that the cases which have piled up could be disposed of expeditiously. This is because there were 1,398 cases in 1983 and in the following year 1984 it rose to 1,593 and in 1985 the number escalated to 2,764 cases. Although I realize that the Government policy is to effect a 10% reduction in manpower costs within a five-year period, this case could be treated as a very pressing need. I also appeal that this Court be provided with a Registrar because, in view of the increasing number of cases outstanding, the provision of a Registrar would lighten the workload of the Court. And if necessary, the salary scale of these officers, including that of the MSCW, be reviewed with a view to improvement in order to attract qualified applicants to serve in the Court.”
“In this way also the activities of our grassroots organizations will not be centred around fund-raising but instead concentrate on activities to meet the needs of our community. Encik Ibrahim Othman (Tanah Merah)( In Malay): Sir, the Muslim Religious Council, Singapore, (MUIS) is charged with the task of the administration of Islamic affairs in Singapore. One of the services provided annually is the management of Haj affairs for Muslims. We know that pilgrims who have performed the Haj have made many comments upon their return. MUIS on its part has done its utmost to provide good services to the pilgrims, and it has received the cooperation and support of the pilgrim brokers and other organizations as well as individuals. Every year, MUIS attempts to provide even better services than the previous year. This year, the MUIS is making a meticulous selection of prospective Sheikh Hajis for the Haj. In this connection, I would appreciate if the the Minister could elucidate the criteria adopted in the selection of these Sheikh Hajis. Secondly, how could MUIS determine that the selected Sheik Hajis would provide the essential services efficiently for the pilgrims during their sojourn in the Holy City during the Haj season? Thirdly, what action will MUIS take against those Sheik Hajis who have failed to discharge their obligations. The second point that I wish to touch on concerns Islamic education in religious schools in Singapore which has been assigned to MUIS. Section 81(1) of the Administration of Muslim Law Act states: 'The control of Muslim religious schools shall be vested in the Majlis and the Majlis shall have power to register and to control the conduct of such schools and to approve the curricula of instruction in such schools.”
“For a void deck space of a three-room flat for the use of senior citizens, the HDB will be charging rental of $300 per month. If we could plan space for the seniors' programme in our proposed community centres the savings will be that much. However, Sir, we are in difficult times as far as raising funds is concerned. For our new community centre in Fengshan, we have to raise $100,000 for basic amenities and another $400,000 to $500,000 for our additional amenities which include a senior citizens centre, day-care facilities for children and sporting amenities, such as multi-purpose courts and squash courts. This will be a monumental task for us. Why do we not content ourselves with only the basic amenities and raise only $100,000? There are several reasons for this. 1. Cost of construction is low today. 2. To build in two phases will be more costly than to build the whole complex in one phase, not to mention the disruption to services. 3. A comprehensive and integrated plan will maximize land utilization and provide for the comprehensive needs of the community. Sir, I respectfully request the Minister to consider whether more flexibility can be built into the system so that the community leaders can decide what is best suited for the community. I also make a plea to the People's Association Board that the Ministry of Finance should consider a one-to-two instead of one-to-one contribution for additional facilities in these difficult times, that is, for every dollar raised by the community, PA or the Ministry of Finance will donate $2 instead of $1. This will be an act of good faith by the PA and the Ministry of Finance which will be much appreciated by all grassroots organizations as it will show that the authorities are aware of the problems of fund-raising today.”
“The People's Association celebrated its 25th anniversary on 1st July 1985. In the last 25 years, the People's Association must be congratulated in that it has kept up with the changing needs of the community. The first generation of community centres in the 1960s consisted of one- or two-storey zinc and wooden buildings. In the 1970s and early 1980s, 61 modern generation CCs were built, each costing $2 to $3 million. In the next 15 years, 36 new CCs will be built. Sir, under the present financial arrangements for the building of a new community centre, the community will need to raise the initial sum of $100,000 for the basic facilities. The remainder of the cost will be borne by the People's Association. The basic facilities are indoors, general office, office for committees, conference room, homecraft room, games room, reading room, multi-purpose rooms, hall and stage, stores and toilets. Outdoors, one basketball or volley-ball court and one children's play area. For any additional facilities, the community will have to pay half the cost. The Government will give a grant of a dollar-for-dollar. Sir, with changing times, what was previously considered additional facilities have now come to be regarded as essential. For example, kindergartens, health and fitness rooms, music room and squash courts are a common and very popular feature of many modern generation CCs. These are, however, considered as Phase 2 or additional facilities under PA's present regulations. For those of us who are planning for new CCs, it will also make good sense to plan for the needs of the future, especially day-care facilities for children and amenities for our senior citizens. The hon. Member for Telok Blangah has highlighted this problem.”
“Sir, I have two amendments under Subhead JK-01. I wish to speak on the development of community centres and the establishment of day-care centres together.”
“Perhaps this second school should be managed along the same lines as the VITB institution so that the school leaver will find it affordable to enrol in it. The new hotel school should provide more broad-based basic training. SHATEC can then concentrate on the more specialized area of skills training. Only in this way can we hope to attract more talent into the industry.”
“Sir, the cost of training in SHATEC is high, due to its specialized nature or function. Training in SHATEC is made possible only through sponsorship by the employers, ie, the hotels, together with the subsidy from the SDF. For example, the Diploma in hotel management course costs $21,000 payable over three years, that is $7,000 per annum. The SDF offers 70% subsidy of course fees and absentee payroll. For the 48-hour advanced food preparation course, the cost fee is $1,000 and SDF provides for 50% subsidy. Sir, now that the industry is in troubled times, training and education may not receive priority by the hoteliers as the priority now is to cut cost and survive the current economic woes. It is within this context that it is suggested that the SDF can play a bigger role in supporting training. The SDF can do this by (1) increasing the quantum of SDF subsidy; (2) broadening the subsidy to trade unions and trade associations that seek to upgrade the skills of its members. I would like to ask the Minister to look into this problem. Sir, if we are to achieve our aim of being a net exporter of hotel management and services, we must build a large pool of skilled workers at all levels in the industry. However, a school leaver, whether 'N', 'O' or 'A' levels, cannot now opt to enrol in SHATEC as he would in other institutions of higher learning, for example, the Polytechnic, Ngee Ann, VITB, NTI or NUS. This is because of the high course fees which I mentioned earlier. Sir, a way must be found to overcome this problem. It has been suggested that to fulfil our manpower needs, a second hotel training school will be required to meet the demands of industry for skilled workers.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I would like to speak a few words regarding the manpower problems of the hotel industry. Sir, the hotel industry is a labour-intensive service-orientated industry. Even in this recession, new hotels which are reaching completion have no choice but to open their doors for business. So there will still be an increasing demand for more workers in the hotel industry overall, while in specific hotels retrenchments may be going on. In order to meet the needs of the industry, the manpower needs of the industry need further study. The needs are (1) upgrading of the present workforce; (2) the need to attract the better educated to join the industry; and (3) the need to further intensify supervising, training and education programmes. Sir, the Singapoore Hotel Association in 1983 made a manpower study of 15 hotels. The results of this study show the urgent need to upgrade the workforce. (1) 38.2% of the workforce in the basic grades have only primary or no education at all. (2) 16.3% of the workforce in the supervisory grades have only primary or no education at all. (3) 5.5% of the workforce at the middle management level have only primary or no education at all, and 40.2% have only lower secondary education. It is to the credit of our present workforce and the industry that, despite the lack of formal education through inhouse and vocational training, they have been able to provide a standard of service in our hotels that is second to none. Sir, today the training of the industry is provided for by inhouse training schemes and in the main by SHATEC (Singapore Hotel Association Training and Education Centre) which is jointly managed by the Singapore Hotel Association and the VITB.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, two supplementary questions. (1) Will expenses incurred in promoting tourism overseas by individual hotels or the Singapore Hotel Association be made tax deductible? (2) Is there any plan to develop a beach resort in view of the proposed closure of Apollo Sentosa?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, in view of the explanations and reassurances given by the Minister of State and the Minister for Communications and Information, I beg to withdraw the motion. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $34,333,250 for Head I ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. The sum of $1,116,373,700 for Head I ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. Head N -”
“My fear, Sir, is that in the end the commuter will be short-changed. In short, while the MRTC and SBS each ensures its own viability, the cost to the commuter will go up. Even worse, in addition to paying more, the commuter will also be inconvenienced. In the long term, to ensure that the best interest of the commuter is served, perhaps the Minister should seriously consider the integration or close coordination of these two transport bodies and to ensure that the commuter is represented in the supervisory authority or board. One or more representatives from the NTUC will serve this purpose.”
“The need to interchange, to buy more than one ticket, the lack of a coordinated time-table and the distance between stops all influence the traveller's perception of interchange. The objective of transport coordination and integration is to provide the traveller with the most efficient mode of travel, and the operator the most cost-effective provision of transport.' Sir, we have heard of through-ticketing being discussed here in Singapore, ie, using the same ticket one can travel from home by bus to the MRT station and use the same ticket for a trip on the train. What is the progress of this study? Is it feasible? Will through-ticketing be implemented in Singapore? This has been successfully implemented in West Germany and I hope that we will also succeed in this. What then will the final cost of travel from point A to point B be when the MRT comes on-line? Same or more? Of course, we do not expect less. Sir, many members of the public have invested in SBS shares with their CPF savings. The Government has invested and will put in billions of dollars into the MRT. The MRTC Act imposes a duty upon the Corporation to earn sufficient revenues from fares and other sources to cover operating costs, including provision for renewal. I understand that the major source of revenue will be fares and that there is no other substantial source of revenue. Sir, the viability of both the bus service and the MRTC is important. We cannot afford to see the failure of either, as these two systems should be complementary. As the MRTC is a statutory board and the SBS is a public-listed company, whether we like it or not, each will have its own interest to look after, ie, to show healthy balance sheets. While these groups are sorting it out, who will represent the interest of the commuter?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head I be reduced by $10 in respect of Subhead IA-01 Object Group 1100 of the Main Estimates. Sir, even before we came to the discussion on Head I, there has been much discussion on the issue of road tax, car park pricing and bus fares in this House during this Session of Parliament. Sir, the Ministry of Communications in the last year has been busy with the problem of taxis. Sir, today I would like to focus on the future plans regarding public transport, and land transport, in particular. The MRTC must be congratulated on its ability to run ahead of its work schedule. The first MRT line from Yio Chu Kang to Clementi is scheduled to begin service in 1988. It is good for the public to know the policy regarding integration of our land transport services and the policy regarding fare structure. For example, how will our bus services fit into the travel pattern when the MRT comes on- line? We know that buses are supposed to carry commuters to the MRT stations. Will this result in a higher cost of travel? We already know that the cost of commuting on buses is not cheap. Will there be a reduction in the services provided by buses? Sir, it would go a long way to allay public fears if public transport costs are pegged to some costs; examples are SBS to petrol, MRT to PUB rates, manpower costs, etc, so that if fares are adjusted, the reasons will be obvious to the public. Sir, I would like to quote from an article entitled "Transport Coordination and Integration in West Germany" from the October 1985 issue of the Journal of Highways and Transportation. The article states, I quote: 'The need to change transport mode in the course of a journey has been shown to place a penalty on a trip.”
“I understand that they are looking into concrete water tanks and I have expressed my fear that, instead of yellow water, we will in future get algae-polluted water, green water. Will the Minister please comment?”
“One possible source of help, states the Report, is for HDB to give elderly HDB flat owners who do not have children with them the option to (1) purchase an annuity from or through HDB, the consideration for the annuity being the reversionary interest in the flat, or (2) exchange their existing flats for smaller flats and purchase an annuity from or through HDB financed by the difference in prices of the two flats. Sir, we are fortunate in Singapore in that we have the lead time to look into these problems. I would like the Minister to comment on his Ministry's opinion of this Report and also to tell the House the plans of his Ministry in regard to the care of the aged in respect of housing. My feeling, Sir, is that in the years ahead, a good proportion may opt for smaller flats. If this is the case, then the housing needs of the aged must be very carefully planned. On the one hand, we must not isolate them from society while on the other hand, common amenities, for example, social and recreational facilities, medical rehabilitation or day-care facilities should be centrally located. This is a complex and challenging area for our town planners. I have every faith that, as with the problems of the past, the Ministry of National Development will successfully tackle these problems. It would be good if we could integrate the common needs for smaller housing units of the young adult couples and the aged to mutual benefit. With careful planning, family units can still be living in close proximity, for example, as is being done with joint balloting for families. Sir, I would like to join my colleagues in thanking the Minister for the quick response to the problem of rusty water. I still have to ask him the question about water tanks.”
“At the same time, the umbilical cord to parents need to be severed so that they can assume their own responsibilities as head of their own households. It would be good for the young couple to live apart from their parents for a while, continue to visit their parents regularly and find a new equilibrium in their relationship with their parents. Later, when they have been better established, both financially and emotionally, they can then decide, both parents and children, whether they would like to buy a bigger flat to accommodate the extended family or a smaller flat for the nuclear family. The problems of the seniors or the aged. The problem of housing for seniors, Sir, is more complex. The Report on the Aged by the Ministry of Health in 1984 has highlighted this problem. While filial piety and the children's responsibility for their parents must not be relinquished to the State, nonetheless, financial security after retirement and suitable accommodation for seniors need looking into. As for financial security after retirement, the Report has stated that the amount required for "subsistence living at current prices is $200 per month [that is, in 1984]." It also makes provision for an annual increase of 5% per annum to allow for inflation. To provide for this, the Report has suggested an annuity scheme. Persons who do not have sufficient CPF balances and/or personal savings to purchase an annuity scheme will, of course, need additional assistance.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, thank you for allowing me to join in the debate. Sir, the Ministry of National Development, through the HDB, has provided housing for more than 80% of our population. For this, the Ministry should be congratulated. Sir, today I would like to focus on the housing needs of two groups of people. One, the young adult couples, ie, those just starting their families and, two, the seniors or the aged. The young couples. Sir, in the future, the HDB will build more of the larger models of flats, ie, mainly the 4-room and 5-room. This policy is correct in that the demand is for this category of flats now. However, I would still urge the Ministry to consider building sufficient smaller units, ie, the 2-room and 3-room for rental to these young couples. Today, there are no new 3-room flats available for rental. What is the problem here, Sir? From our meet-the-people sessions, we know that many of these people cannot afford to buy the flat as they have just started working. Many of these young couples like to live on their own. Sir, from a sociological point of view, it may not be a bad idea that these couples can start their own home. Even parents today have expressed the wish for their children to live on their own after marriage. They would then learn the problems of managing their own homes, home economics, to budget for themselves and to look after their daily needs - food, toilet paper, soap, PUB and telephone bills. The parents' support will thus not be taken for granted. Will this erode filial piety? My answer is not necessarily so. It is good that the young couple have the privacy of their own home to build a strong foundation for their nuclear family in the future.”
“The so-called cheap property is still not affordable by many professionals and upper middle-income earners. Perhaps the industry should also look into this aspect more seriously so that more Singaporeans can realize their hope of owning their own shop or office or private residential property. Mr Speaker, Sir, I now turn to the hotel industry. Much has been said and I would just like to focus on two points. Firstly, the hotel industry merits the support of Government because it fits perfectly into our economic restructuring. Our hoteliers are already very active in China. The Government should give every support to our hoteliers so that not only will they survive this recession but more importantly, in future, Singapore hoteliers will be exporting their expertise throughout the world. Today, our local hotel management is still in its infancy. Many of our hotels are managed by international chains. In 1983, this cost us $20 million. With Government help, it is estimated that, in approximately six years, Singapore can be a net exporter of hotel management services. Before this can be achieved, a pool of talent must be built up. And this brings me to the second point, namely, that of the spectre of unemployment should hotels fail. Mr Speaker, Sir, the hotel industry employs directly approximately 20,000 workers. Most of them are Singaporeans. Many are in their middle years and they have skills only useful to the hotel industry. Many of them with low education have risen up the ranks through inhouse education and hard work. These people deserve our admiration. Many of them, if retrenched, will have difficulty in finding satisfactory alternative employment. 3.38 pm”
“In 1982, a foreigner, internationally acclaimed as a model of success in his own field, wanted to expand his business in Singapore. He had purchased a piece of commercial property worth $2.4 million. As he has to travel widely, he applied for an employment pass for one of his trusted lieutenants to look after the Singapore operations. This was turned down by the Immigration authorities. Is it not common practice that having made a big financial commitment that one would like to entrust this only to a trusted lieutenant? All the other employees would have been Singaporeans. The final result, after appeals failed, was that they were so frustrated and disappointed, they folded up and left Singapore. Before I close this topic, Sir, I would like to put the issue in the correct perspective. In the property boom days, the developers and bankers were making immense profits. Today, while asking for Government assistance, they must also be willing to lower profits and even to plough back some of their immense profits back to the market by lowering property prices.”
“At the present time, a foreigner willing to invest $1 million through the EDB will be given permanent residence. The Ministry of Finance should consider extending this scheme to include investment in real estate. Those who invest $1 million in real estate should be given a restricted form of permanent residence. This will allow them to stay in Singapore, thus creating investment and stimulating the domestic economy. As the rule stands today, a foreigner can buy property but he may not be allowed to stay and work long term. What then is the incentive to invest? I have proposed a restricted form of permanent residence because I agree with our basic premise that foreigners should not be allowed to burden our social and welfare amenities. The restricted PRs should be allowed to live and work in Singapore with their families but they will have to pay for the consumption of social and welfare amenities. For example, in schooling and health care, these restricted PRs will pay foreigner's rate. The easing of immigration rules for these foreigners to work and stay in Singapore will attract many to invest in our property market. In essence, I am calling for a new category of restricted permanent residence to be created for those who believe Singapore is a good place to live in and are willing to invest in real estate. The PMCC has also called for a relaxation of immigration controls in this area. This problem, Mr Speaker, Sir, is a real problem. Permit me, Sir, to cite two cases which will exemplify his problem. Case 1. An elderly couple from a neighbouring country bought an apartment for $700,000 in late 1985. They applied to the Immigration Department for an extension of stay for three months. They were turned down. Case 2.”
“Each citizen will also know that the utilization of the National Savings Account must be very carefully considered as the contribution rate will be variable, depending on the state of the economy. Further flexibility can be superimposed on this scheme, for example, the sliding scale CPF scheme as suggested by the First Deputy Prime Minister. The property glut. Mr Speaker, Sir, many Members have spoken on this. The report of the Property Market Consultative Committee summarizes the problem in this way: 'The problem before us is thus of national significance. It should be worrying not merely to owners of unsold or unoccupied space but also direct to the rest of the population. Any non-utilization or under-utilization of available space is a cost to the country. As a corollary, any measures taken to alleviate the problem is for the national good, transcending narrower sectional or parochial interest.' The real estate is one sector where we can still attract investors, both local and foreign. However, some of our regulations need to be changed to attract investment. For the local investors, if we allow for interest on mortgage to be tax deductible, this will help. Many affluent Singaporeans and companies are finding it more profitable to buy properties overseas. It all boils down again to the question of international competitiveness. This would also help those who are genuine home owners and not property investors or speculators. The Government should consider this proposal for owner-occupied properties in the first instance. These persons would benefit immensely if interest on mortgage is tax deductible. The benefit would be immediately felt. The majority of Singaporeans will benefit from this. Turning to foreigners.”
“Now with the economic downturn and the urgent need to reduce the employer's CPF contribution, many are caught in a difficult position of being unable to meet their mortgage payments. It is reassuring that Government has taken steps to help all those with this problem. To minimize the recurrence of such problems, may I humbly suggest that the CPF returns to its original aim of being a savings fund for old age. Home ownership is provision for old age. The experience of persons working as seniors overseas is that those who do not own a home are those mostly badly off, as they will be squeezed out of their rented homes with annual rental increments. Medisave is also provision for old age, as statistics have shown that medical expenditure increases with age. If we set aside 20% for home ownership, 6% for Medisave and 4% for old age per se, this will bring the CPF rate to 30% (15% by employer and 15% by employee). This CPF rate should be fixed and not altered except under very exceptional circumstances. My suggestion is that all contributions in excess of this 30% should be put into a separate account called the National Savings Account. The rate of contribution to this account would be pegged to the economic performance from year to year, thus providing for flexibility. It is only funds from this account that should be allowed for investments and other uses, for example investments in residential property, commercial property, investments in gold and securities, and even children's education. Through this clear separation of accounts, our citizens will have an assured savings on retirement through the CPF account.”
“The Finance Minister has explained that while we have little control over external factors, we do have considerable control over internal factors. The Government has acted firmly and decisively over the last year to restore our international competitiveness and confidence in Singapore's economy. The Government has placed national interest and survival above petty politics. Some of the measures announced are politically unpopular and controversial. This definitely is not the action of a government that has decided to, in the words of the Member for Anson, "let the situation get worse" or, in his own words, "Who cares?". The Member for Anson has also mentioned about tax rates in Malaysia and in Singapore. Mr Speaker, Sir, can I just put to the House the figures so that everyone can see who pays more - the Malaysian earning the first $10,000 or the Singaporean earning the first $10,000? In Malaysia, the tax on the first $10,000 amounts to $925. In Singapore, it will amount to $875.25 less 15% rebate for the first $10,000, less 25% across-the-board rebate. There I rest my case. Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to focus on three aspects of the Budget presentation - the CPF, property glut and the hotel industry. The CPF: The Economic Committee has explicitly explained our position with regard to national savings. The Member for Potong Pasir is more worried that the Government has no money to repay. My concern is the long term role of the CPF and its relationship to national savings. The rate of CPF savings was gradually increased over the years. Now, to alter this becomes difficult as over the years the CPF usage has been liberalized to include withdrawal for home ownership, property investments, and investments in securities and gold.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of the motion moved by the Minister for Finance. Sir, the Budget this year is presented to deal with a severe recession. The Government has also announced its acceptance of the Economic Committee Report. Who are the people serving on this Economic Committee and its Sub-committees? They are, by and large, Singaporeans with a few expatriates who are working in Singapore. Is this, in the words of the Member for Anson, "placing too much reliance on foreign advice"? I do not think so. Mr Jeyaretnam: It is concurrence.”
“Sir, will the Minister consider reduction of taxes for goods vehicles and other vehicles used for business?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, does the Minister not agree that the reduction of road tax, like petrol price and taxi fares which the Ministry has rescinded, will result in a significant reduction in the cost of living and cost of doing business in Singapore, which is the goal of the Government?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, having been on the site for most of the last 48 hours, I have observed the severe pressure under which our rescue workers are working. They have been tolerating it very well and they are taking it very well. Will the Minister assure us that the Executive Group will resist pressure internationally or locally onto the rescue workers to expedite work at the expense of danger to the persons trapped and to the rescue workers?”