Chan Chee Seng
Singapore
“If these practices are not being taken seriously by occupants of high-rise buildings, they will be repeated until the Singapore Fire Service is thoroughly satisfied. Finally, I would like to assure the House that the Singapore Fire Service keeps abreast of technological advances in the fighting of high-rise fires.”
“Only the Kallang Creche has been transferred to SILO to run. In the case of the staff in the Kallang Creche, they were absorbed into the other 10 creches to fill vacancies. As for the transfer of the other creches to the NTUC, this is still under consideration and has not been implemented yet.”
“I would like to clarify matters today by posing two questions. The first question is whether we should encourage the habit of reliance on others? The second question is whether we should encourage the people to be self-reliant in order to be able to help or look after themselves?”
“The Social Welfare Department will improve its classification procedure so as to provide information of employable disabled persons and to assist disabled persons to remain in employment through intensive counselling before employment and follow-up services after job placement In 1974 the Social Welfare Department cooperated with the Mini…”
“Volunteer counsellors and advisers could be engaged from within the community to man them, with expert assistance from a small number of professional social welfare staff.”
“Anyway, I agree with the Member that we must look after our old people properly and give them good food and to prepare the food as palatable as possible. We must realise that there are about 270 inmates in the Bushey Park Home. When they were admitted, some of them were feeble, while others were sick.”
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“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Member for Punggol has asked for the number of playgrounds. I do not have the information now because we have so many playgrounds in Singapore. But if he needs it, I will go back to the Ministry and send him a list of the playgrounds. On the question of the revote raised by the hon. Member, we are using it for one playground in Geylang Serai and one playground in Jalan Padang.”
“This Home for the Aged will be built in Clenienti Road in 1969. But we are not prepared to build more. Mr Teong Eng Siong rose - 4.55 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker. Sir, on the question of the Home for the Aged, I think we have enough of such homes. There are three at the moment: one is Bushey Park Home, one is Woodstock Home, and there is a third one at Woodlands. With regard to homes for handicapped children, we have at the moment nine voluntary organisations looking after them. So there is no need for the Government to build more of such homes. But we will certainly assist the voluntary organisations in whatever way we can.”
“I have answered his questions very well, Sir. First, he says that the herbarium is closed to outsiders and that only few persons are using it. I say that if you are a layman, you will not know how to use it. If you are interested and you are either an undergraduate in a university or an expert in plant life and all that, definitely the herbarium is open to them. In fact, it has been serving thousands of people. People from all over the world are using our facilities. They can write in. Some people pay a special visit. And the Member says I did not answer him concerning our Director. I have already answered him. We have a very capable person understudying his work at the moment. When the Director retires, we will, in fact, lose a very capable man. 5.00 p.m.”
“Now we have more than 10,000 trees planted. So a few mistakes are unavoidable. However, the work of planting trees is being transferred to the Ministry of National Development, because the Ministry is in charge of housing. The P.W.D, is in charge of engineering, and engineering and plant ing do not come under the same work group.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, if you look at this problem in terms of this area or that area, or in terms of constituencies, it is not right. You should look at it from the point of view of Singapore as a whole. We cannot have a national theatre in every part of Singapore. We cannot have in every constituency a very good fountain. For example, in my constituency, there is the Jalan Besar Stadium. But it is very old and dilapidated. We should look at it from the point of view of the whole country. As a matter of principle, if the Government has discriminated against the poor man's areas in favour of the rich man's areas, then this is definitely a mistake. But from the point of view of the whole of Singapore, if you want to beautify the areas you cannot actually consider where this development should take place. Take, for example, Thomson. In the past there were many attap huts there, but now it is quite a beautiful area. There is a reservoir; there is a beautiful roundabout with lots of flowers and plants; and there are trees. All this was done by the Government. We do not consider whether this is a poor man's area or not, or that if it is a poor man's area, then we will plant less there. There has never been such an idea from the beginning. Another point is this. The Member for Changi has pointed out the lack of co-ordination between the Departments. I agree with him that in some instances it is so. But the situation is this. If we have to plant some thousands of trees, of course, we are liable to make some mistakes. We cannot be 100 per cent perfect in everything we do. This niistake has occurred in two or three places only.”
“As a result of road expansion and so on, sometimes there is a need to remove the trees which had been planted. 4.30 p.m. So if there are new houses coming up in Bukit Ho Swee, Alexandra, very soon we will plant trees there. And it is inevitable that in the course of our development in certain areas, the trees that have already been planted might have to be removed. In actual fact, many Members of Parliament have helped our Ministry to carry out tree-planting campaigns. I remember in one constituency the campaign has been very active. So it is not quite correct to bring this matter up in this House. It would be better for us to go out and see for ourselves the lamp posts and trees. If the Member for Changi can pin-point the particular incidents that have happened, we will, of course, go there and investigate and put matters right.”
“The Member for Changi has complained that some trees are planted near lamp-posts. I would like to point out that thousands of plants are sometimes planted at a time. As a result of development, the residents of certain areas ask for lamp-posts to be put up. But in the meantime, the plants have grown into small trees. I think that is the actual situation. I will be very glad if the hon. Member can pin-point any such case and give me more details. The Member for Changi has complained that in certain areas we do not provide the people with water but with trees. I should say that although water is very important, trees are also important. Our lives would be monotonous without trees. The Member for Changi has also said that at times the trees planted have to be removed due to road widening. This is necessary because of road and other developments. Mr Sim Boon Woo: On a point of clarification.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, let me first reply to the Member for Mountbatten who has complained that flowers along Collyer Quay have disappeared. The Member for Changi thinks that perhaps they might have wilted away. All these complaints are not correct. In the past, the flowers planted in pots were grown as an experiment. Now that the experiment has proved successful, we realise that flowers can be planted in pots and beds. But we also realise that if flowers or trees are planted along the centre of a road, many motorists will be inconvenienced as their vision will be affected and this might cause accidents. The Member for Delta has said that our flowers and trees should have more Eastern colour or tone. It is really very difficult to distinguish between what is Eastern and what is Western. In fact, many of the trees and flowers that are planted are of Singapore origin. How can we say how many are from the Botanic Gardens or how many are from elsewhere? Sir, we may know the origins of plants and seedlings, but I think it is very difficult to distinguish between whether they are of Eastern or Western origins. As to the planting of more trees and flowers in areas occupied by rich people, I think there is some misunderstanding. Many tourists coming here have described Singapore as a green city with flowers and plants everywhere. In recent years, we have planted innumerable trees and flowers. We did this without taking into consideration whether an area is occupied by rich or poor people. Most hon. Members, including myself, do not come from rich families. We do not concentrate the planting of trees and flowers only in areas occupied by rich people and neglect those areas occupied by poor people. This is not in accordance with our policy.”
“Normally, the people report false figures to us. Madam Chan Choy Siong: I beg leave to withdraw. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The following amendments stood in the name of Madam Chan Choy Siong - (5) That the sum to be allocated for Head 1003 be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead 1181. (6) That the total sum to be allocated for Head l003 be reduced by $100. Madam Chan Choy Siong: I am not moving my amendments Nos. (5) and (6) . The sum of $11,818,640 for Head 1003 ordered to stand part of the Estimates. Head 1005 -”
“Sir, just now I have already said that public assistance is given only to needy cases. When we do so, we must take into consideration that the applicants are really poor and in actual need of the assistance. There are some people who become dependent on public assistance if they are given a large sum and they do not want to go and look for work to maintain themselves. These are the principles that the Public Assistance Section has to bear in mind. I agree with the Member for Delta. There have been such instances mentioned by the Member not only in her constituency but also in other constituencies as well. We have found that some of the members of the public that we meet in our "Meet the people sessions" can actually work and the wages they receive are actually higher than what they have told us. 4.15 p.m. For instance, in September, we reinvestigated 44 cases and found that many of them were not true because they continued to receive public assist ance even after being employed. If we did not re-investigate these cases, large sums of money would have been paid out to these recipients of public assistance under false pretences. In November, 37 cases were re-investigated. The Member for Delta has said that we should consider the cases of some poor people who have to wash clothes in order to supplement their income. If these cases are true, of course, we will consider them. But if after investigating, we find that they are actually drawing a higher income, we will reduce their public assistance. She has also complained that the department concerned has been too rigid in going about its business. I hope she can give us details so that we can investigate whether or not such an allega tion is true. Of course, we will take appropriate action to deal with each case.”
“As our country is a multi-racial one, we use a number of languages in these creches, and the activities in these creches involve the customs of other races. This is unavoidable. Since our country is multi-racial, we carry out multi-racial programmes in these creches. Similarly, if the Member for Delta has some good suggestions, we will, of course, consider them. Madam Chan Choy Siong: I beg leave to withdraw. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.”
“Sir, just now the Member for Delta has mentioned that in 1959 we said that we wanted to build many creches but she did not specify the number. At present, we have ten creches. I agree with her that we should have more. The reason is that we have a lot of workers in Singapore who have a large number of children. At home they cannot look after the children properly. Therefore, they have to put them in their relative's house or in creches if there are any. This will bring some convenience to the families. The Member for Delta also wants to know whether it is possible to build creches in the industrial sites. If there are suitable sites, then, of course, our department will consider this problem. The Member claims that the attitude of the people in charge of these creches and their educational background are not suitable to our way of life. We are the first to oppose the problem of haughtiness. In recruiting the staff for the creches, we subject them to a course of courtesy training to see if they are suitable in handling children and their parents. However, perhaps there are some people in charge of these creches who make mistakes in their dealings with other people because of the many problems they have to tackle. If the Member for Delta can point out the people who are guilty in this respect, then I would like to take steps to rectify this matter. Our country does not permit this sort of attitude. About Western habits or customs, I think there may he some misunderstanding. As far as the people working in these creches are concerned, out of ten members of the staff, about five are Chinese educated. There are 12 assistant instructors who are Chinese educated.”
“For instance, we want better social services, houses, and a higher level of education. We want to develop industrially; we want better health amenities and a better living standard, etc. All this our Government has been trying to achieve for the people. Together with the concerted effort of the people, it has been able to overcome difficulties and carry out various plans and measures. Other than the daily problem of livelihood, there are other problems. For instance, whenever there is a fire or a flood in any area, the Government, together with civic organisations, is able to provide immediate relief to the people affected. We all know that we have good living conditions. We should not allow our paradise to be invaded by anybody. We must also look after the interests and survival of the country and not just after our own self-interests. We must not feel complacent for the present and ignore to watch out for any pitfall in the future. The National Service (Amendment) Bill will create a grand and open path for us to tread upon, a path which will lead to a better future. This Bill will better equip the people to face the present and the future so that it will bring about a sense of confidence in survival and a new spirit to our people, and we can all push out our chests in the Singapore of the 20th century and live and march towards a better future with courage and hope and confidence. The introduction of this Bill at this juncture is most appropriate. Sir, I support this Bill.”
“We should all recognise that the object of the Government's policies is directed at the interests and welfare of the people. The debate today on this Bill could actually have been dispensed with as the people have full confidence in this government. Why do we now debate it? In actual fact, the Minister could have set up a committee to implement it. But because we arc democratic, we must go through the democratic process in respect of every policy and measure affecting the people, and so we have to spend some time studying it. The Bill is based on the interest of all the people. There are various opinions existing in our country. Some people may think that though national service is very good, it is better that other children should be called up and that their children must be exempted. That is not practicable. The proposition advanced by the Barisan Sosialis is not to want any national service at all. They incite the people against it and would rather see the country subject to others. The Government has the means and capacity to take strong measures to expose these destructive elements. In order to practise democracy and efficient government, we should afford the people an opportunity for discussion. This, at the same time, will see the government through any crisis. We believe we can achieve this in our country. The Bill has also something to do with the other aspects of our lives and aims, because it will ensure that the achievements in our culture, economy, education, health and construction can survive and endure. We are living not only in a multi-racial society but also in a society where there is equality of opportunities and services, including equality of religion, economy and education. The people no doubt can have many wants and opinions.”
“Some people may say that in a democratic country, the demands of the people are more than those in other countries. Therefore, the facilities of such a country must be more advanced and progressive than those provided by the other countries. There are many countries which call themselves democratic, but because of the emptiness of the leadership who is devoid of capacity and efficiency and the right attitude, such countries, after a long rule under such leadership, have fallen into a mess and the people are in dire poverty and struggling in deep waters and have become completely disillusioned. We must give credit to our Minister of Defence who has drafted this far-sighted scheme in time which will provide an opportunity for our youth to receive training and so put our country always in a state of preparedness. The National Service (Amendment) Bill is not what the Barisan Sosialis think. It is not a means to make cannon fodder or running dogs of our people. Our society and our political entity is formed by the will and energy of our people and is an expression of the idealism and will of our people. Every citizen has a say in the administration of the Government. Yet there are some people who disdain government policies and have caused difficulties to the society and the Government. But if the policies are carried out with full conviction and force for the good of the country, the Government will be able to overcome all difficulties. The force of a united people is like running water which cannot be stopped by the meagre strength of the Barisan Sosialis. The Government will not treat the people just like sheep. If it has good policies and an efficient administration, the people will certainly support it until success is achieved.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the National Service (Amendment) Bill has been introduced into this House. This goes to show that the Government of Singapore is a very responsible and good one. Under the guidance and through the efforts of the Minister of Defence, the Bill has been introduced in time. Generally, it is true with all countries that irrespective of their different conditions they have worries of some sort. Especially in the middle of the 20th century, there have been great policy changes and political repercussions throughout the world. If such radical changes in national policy were in the hands of an irresponsible government, the people will lose the safeguards to their lives and property, and the security of the country will also be endangered. Our country will be affected if there are any political changes and repercussions in other countries. Politics is a dynamic phenomenon. So if anything were to happen, then a peaceful and prosperous country might overnight become a conquered country living under the rule of another. This will chill one's bones and it is really something we should watch out against. Ours is a newly independent emergent country. We have mobilised all our people and have gone through a long period of struggle to achieve our present independent status. The People's Action Party has acquired independence for the people of Singapore. I believe it has lived up to the aspirations of the people. It has implemented various measures for their benefit, brought about freedom and equality, and provided what the people want. It is the first time in the history of Singapore that the people have such a capable, strong and efficient government with such verve and spirit and achievements.”
“Yes, Mr Speaker. Legal action has been taken against the operators, and one operator has since been convicted and fined. DAMAGE TO ROADS IN KAMPONG KEMBANGAN 3. Inche Mohd. Ariff Bin Suradi asked the Minister for Law and National Development if he is aware that several roads in the Kampong Kembangan Constituency have been damaged by lorries carrying heavy loads and whether action will be taken against the drivers or owners of such lorries. The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for National Development (Mr Ho Cheng Choon) (for the Minister for Law and National Development): Mr Speaker, Sir, I am directed to answer the question. I am aware that several roads in the Kampong Kembangan Constituency have been damaged by heavy vehicles. This includes lorries carrying heavy loads. The Public Works Department has now stationed men at various points to collect evidence of vehicles which cause damage to roads with a view to prosecution in Court under section 22 (a) of the Local Government Integration Ordinance.”
“There are no plans at the moment to develop the beach at Punggol which is, in fact, not as popular as the beach at the north-eastern end, i.e. Changi and Pasir Ris.”
“Mr Speaker, I agree whole-heartedly with the Member for Mountbatten on his point to attract tourists. Definitely this is one of our purposes - to beautify our beaches as well as to provide more amenities on our beaches and make them attractive. First of all, however, may I answer the Member for Punggol on the two separate subheads? First, he has raised the question of children's playgrounds. As far as the programme for children's playgrounds is concerned, the Ministry is to provide 50 new children's playgrounds over a period of five years, at the rate of, say, 10 playgrounds each year. Each playground will have a lawn, compound, swings and see-saws. It will be about an acre in area. As far as possible, these playgrounds will be sited in areas where the need is greatest, but, of course, the main consideration will be the availability of suitable sites. Consideration can be given to the provision of a children's playground in the Punggol area provided that the Government is satisfied that there is a need for such a playground and also if a suitable site is available. As for the other matter brought up by the Member for Punggol concerning the improvements of beaches, this project is for the improvement of beaches along Nicoll Drive, which has proved to be one of the most popular seaside resorts in Singapore. Selected sites along the beach will be developed and planted with trees and flowery shrubs and beauty added to the scenery. The beach will also be kept clear of rubbish and debris and special receptacles will be provided for the dumping of rubbish by members of the public. As available funds are limited, it is proposed in the first phase to develop the beach along Nicoll Drive.”
“Mr Speaker, this provision is for paying rental charges to the Telecommunications Department for the use of V.H.F. radio sets. These V.H.F. radio sets are used as a means of quick communication between the fire engines, ambulances, fire officers and fire stations. The increased provision has been made necessary by the increase in rental charges imposed by the Telecommunications Department, which in most cases have been doubled. For example, the rental previously charged for a mobile set was $800 per year. This has been increased to $1,200 a year.”
“Mr Speaker, under the public assistance scheme, the rates of payment are in accordance with certain rules of eligibility and a means test. Those Malay families living in Housing and Development Board flats and are receiving public assistance have been paid in accordance with the scheme. To give any special treatment to those families under the scheme will raise difficulties in the administration of the public assistance scheme. However, if there are such families whose circumstances require special consideration, it may be possible to assist them in other ways outside the ambit of the public assistance scheme. I would suggest to the hon. Member that he give the particulars of such families to this Ministry, so that we can ask the Social Welfare Department to look into the matter.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, this allowance is for the foster-mothers. The fostering out scheme has been administered by the department since 1956 and provides carefully selected foster-mothers to look after children up to the age of 10 who cannot be brought up in their own homes or who, for some reason or other, have been deprived of normal maternal care; for example, when the mother is ill or has been hospitalised. The fostering-out of the child is an assignment which calls for careful consideration and selection, and it is vitally important that he is placed in a home where the foster-mother is capable of understanding him and where he is likely to find a happy adjustment, the aim being to provide him with the best substitute for a home. Foster-mothers under the scheme are paid from $50 to $60 per month according to the age of the child placed in their care and, where possible, parents are encouraged to make a contribution towards the cost.”
“Mr Speaker, I think this is due to the bogus cases. Some bogus cases have been uncovered; so it seems that we will have enough funds for next year's expenditure. The Member for Ulu Pandan has said that action should be taken against the bogus recipients of public assistance allowance. I think we have definitely taken action against them. He said that we have not looked into the matter, but I think the Minister has told him outside this House that he can submit his cases to him and that he will be prepared to look into those cases which are not being looked into.”
“Mr Speaker, this provision is used for assisting destitute and stranded persons and for the purchase of rations for feeding victims of civil calamities like fires and floods. It was the practice in previous years to make a standard provision of $2,500 per year and to supplement this provision from savings under other votes in the course of the year should the provision be inadequate. For 1966, however, the provision has been increased to meet additional payments as follows: (a) Special relief to fishermen who have been adversely affected by the curfew imposed in the coastal waters around Singapore. Fishermen families affected are given assistance at the rate of $5 per person subject to a maximum of $30 per household; and (b) Special grants of $5 per person to victims of fire and other calamities which in the past were charged to a public assistance vote. It was considered inappropriate to charge this expenditure to the public assistance vote and the transfer of liability to this vote is to regularise the matter.”
“In fact, the position has been under constant review h the Department of Social Welfare 4.45 p.m. If the hon. Member would like to suggest particular locations where there is at present no children's centre and where he considers the establishment of such a centre is desirable, the matter will be looked into by the department.”
“Mr Speaker, at the moment the Department maintains a total of ten children's creches and 16 children's centres. The creches provide care and training for children of a few weeks' old to five years of age, whose mothers are working and who cannot afford to send them to private kindergartens. Every child is given breakfast, lunch, and tea, and free medical attention is provided. The creches are open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays to Fridays and from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. The ten creches have a daily total average attendance of over 300. It has been found that the ten creches, which are located in various parts of Singapore, appear to have met the need for this type of service, so that at the moment there is no demand for an extension of service. In fact, a number of our creches, for example, those at Manila Street and Bukit Ho Swee, are not filled to capacity. The 16 children's centres run by the Department have a daily total average attendance of over 1,000. These centres provide elementary education for children who, for some reason or other, cannot be admitted to the schools run by the Ministry of Education. They are open from 9 am. to 5 p.m. on Mondays to Fridays and from 9 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturdays. The children attending these centres are from 5 to 13 years of age. They receive snacks of milk, vitamins, buns, and free fruits. Free medical and dental treatment is also provided. All these children's centres are located in existing community centres run by the Peoples Association, and it is possible that the hon. Member is referring to these centres rather than creches. The question of increasing the number of children's creches will have to be considered in relation to the availability of staff and the need in each locality.”
“Mr Speaker, normally it takes about two weeks to consider an application for public assistance from the date of its registration, for the application has to be investigated, processed, and given a decision. However, there are cases where applicants - (a) have furnished incorrect addresses, (b) leave addresses which are difficult to locate, and (c) require a thorough investigation into their circumstances. In all these cases, some delay is unavoidable as more than one home visit will have to be made and a fuller investigation required. In the last few months the Social Welfare Department has had to cope with special assignments, for example, the relief and rehabilitation of victims of civil disturbances in July and September 1964, the special assistance scheme for fishermen who were affected by the curfew imposed in Singapore coastal waters in early 1965, and a special scheme for payment of rent subsidies to Malay families who are affected by the Government's redevelopment scheme. As a result of these special assignments, investigation officers have had to be taken off their normal public assistance work. This has resulted in an unavoidable slowing down of investigation of public assistance cases. Action is in hand to recruit more staff for the public assistance section. It is hoped that with the employment of additional staff, it will be possible to speed up the investigation of public assistance cases.”
“Mr Speaker, the last point raised by the Member for Delta has more to do with the publication side. May I ask my colleague, the Member for Stamford, to answer that point? As to the first point taken up by her, it is a matter of policy and a matter concerning the establishment of a Women's Institute similar to that of the People's Association. If she will officially write to the Government raising this matter, she will be informed of the position in due course. As to the matter taken up by the Member for Kampong Kapor, on the question of the desirability of registering communal political associations under the Societies Ordinance, a society, whether of a political nature or otherwise, can he registered as long as the Registrar is satisfied: (a) That the rules of the society are sufficient to provide for proper management and control; (b) That the society is not likely to be used for unlawful purposes or for purposes prejudicial to public peace, or welfare or the good order of Singapore; (c) That the application for registration complies with the provisions of the Ordinance, or any rules made thereunder; (d) That it would not be contrary to the national interest. In considering the application of any political association for registration under the Ordinance, whether communal or otherwise, the Registrar, if he is satisfied that the organisation is likely to be used for unlawful purposes or for purposes prejudicial to the public peace or welfare or the good order of Singapore, or that it would be contrary to the national interest for the application to be approved, of course, rejects the application.”
“Mr Speaker, the present arrangement whereby Muslim students are sent to the Muslim College Class for Religious Studies has been in existence since 1961. Students are sent to the College on a scholarship, tenable for four years, with an annual value of $1,500 which is paid direct to the College authorities. The first Muslim Scholarship was awarded to a scholar who was admitted to the College in 1961 and he graduated in 1964. The second scholar was admitted in 1962 and he should finish his course at the end of this year. There were no scholars in 1963 and 1964: two scholars were sent - one of them left this College subsequently for further studies at the Azhar University in Cairo, and the other is continuing with his studies. In 1965, one scholar was sent. The desirability of sending Muslim scholars to Cairo in future is, in fact, being considered by my Ministry and, to this end, inquiries are being made to ascertain the conditions and terms of admission.”
“If the Minister for Finance wants to suggest a cut in their allowance, then, on behalf of the people of Jalan Besar, I fully support him should he wish to make some adjustment in this respect.”
“The Development Estimates touch on reclamation of the sea. If there is a saying that God created the sea and the Dutch created the land, then we can change it into that God created the sea but the people of Singapore created the land. This is the right time for us to do so. There are many examples in our Budget to show that there has not been any miscalculation or wasting of money. It is a Budget in which every single cent is scrupulously used for the benefit of the people. For instance, the American Defence Budget for 1966, according to the United Press Agency, will increase to U.S.$6l,000 million. Of course, this is the result of direct American intervention in the Vietnamese war. Of course, I am not criticising or comparing the American Budget with our Budget. I am only mentioning it as an interesting contrast. From this, you can see that the total Budget for 1966 for Singapore is, in actual fact, one part out of 366 of America's Defence Budget. Now what is the percentage? The other point is that America is considering spending $10,000 million every year on South Vietnam, mainly on military aid. One-sixtieth part of it will be enough for Singapore's development construction for one year. I want to say that if the ultra adventurists or racialist ultra elements want to destroy Singapore's economic construction and system in order to turn Singapore into a hot-bed of war, and if they succeed, then we will not be able to discuss the Budget. I have said that there is no wasting of money as shown in the Budget. Speaking from the construction aspect, every cent has been well spent, except that $500 allowance for the Barisan Members. They want to get the allowance without being willing to do the same amount of work, to shoulder their responsibilities for the people.”
“As an independent democratic peace-loving country, our Budget is full of such spirit. From the figures of revenue and expenditure, both total about $500 million. Education will incur $129 million for next year, which is $16 million more than that of the previous year. Of the $275 million for the Development Estimates, the Ministry of Law and National Development gets 50 per cent of the expenditure. I point out these figures in order to stress a characteristic of the whole Budget. In other words, the characteristic of the whole Budget reflects the Government's hope of progress, peace and construction. They are important factors in our march towards peace, democracy and progress. In the beginning of 1966, there will be a new Five-Year Development Plan in order to implement a multi-racial society in which there is economic development and prosperity. In the first Five-Year Development Plan, the Government has already expended $192 million and built 51,000 units of low-cost houses, to provide accommodation for one-quarter of our population. The Housing Board will in the next Five-Year Plan build 12,000 units of low-cost houses yearly. It is expected that by the end of the Five-Year Plan, 60,000 units of houses and shop-houses will have been built, and that there will be reclamation of marshes and beaches and urban renewal. There will be P.W.D. development and other construction plans. What I like to stress is that these gigantic long-term construction plans have all been stipulated in our Budget in order that we may carry them out orderly and that the planning can be done in the first year with a good start. This is a long-term plan and not on a year-to-year basis. And we want to start right from the correct perspective. Our stand is very clear.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, in discussing our financial budget for next year, we are discussing the gigantic plan of economic development of an emerging country. Our heart is filled with joy and new hope. We have sufficient determination jointly to shoulder the heavy task of economic construction of our country. Today what gives us regret is that the Barisan Sosialis Opposition are not shouldering their responsibility, but instead adopt a passive attitude of total disregard for the people - boycotting the Parliament. And when our newly emerging country is marching a step forward, they are trying to sabotage the progress of our country. The objective of the Barisan Sosialis is to destroy. All along they have been adopting the attitude of disruption of national unity, disrupting the construction of the country, and destroying the national economy. They are harbouring the thought of turning Singapore topsy-turvy so that they can realise their dream of building an ideal country from the debris of Singapore. Today, because of their boycott, we must solemnly point out their mistakes and mischievous activities. Undoubtedly they should give responsible constructive criticism, but they are not doing so. Instead they have engaged themselves in destroying and sabotaging our economic development and national interests. Their action is most incomprehensible. As an independent and emerging country, we look forward to a peaceful struggle in order to achieve victory, but our hope for peace is not less than any other country's. For the sake of preserving our national security and defence and the rights and interests of the people, we have to strengthen our defence. This is a necessary safeguard for our independence and security.”
“Mr Speaker, I have been instructed by my Minister to answer. It has been the long standing policy of the Department of Social Welfare to refuse public assistance relief to applicants who hold Second Class Hackney Carriage Driving Licences. It is considered a reasonable presumption that holders of such licences are employed, or intend to seek employment, as taxi-drivers. However, in cases where such applicants have surrendered their licences and can satisfy the Department that they are unemployed, public assistance relief has been given. FISHERMEN AFFECTED BY NIGHT CURFEW AT SEA The following Question stood in the name of Mr Chia Thye Poh :- 16. To ask the Minister for Law and National Development whether the Government has taken any step to urge the Malaysian Government to enable fishermen, affected by the night curfew at sea, to carry on fishing at night, and if he will state the outcome in the matter.”
“The achievements in housing of the Government over the past five years have been great because of our able leadership. Our fame has spread abroad and has been recognised in Mr Lim Kim San, the former Minister for National Development, being awarded the Magsaysay prize. This is an encouragement to us and we shall continue to work harder for the interests of the people by trying to raise their standard of living both in the city and in the rural areas. We are now going through the Primary Production Department to give all forms of assistance to farmers. We have well-trained personnel and we have set up veterinary and other stations to assist the farmers in increasing their production. The total production of the rural areas amounts to some $200 million per year. We are now able to produce eggs not only for our own consumption but also for export. Only recently, in September this year, the Government held an agricultural show to let the world and our people know what achievements we have made in the rural areas through the Ministry of National Development. Some 300,000 people visited the show. This is a clear indication that great care has been taken of the rural people, particularly those engaged in farming. We have also met with recognition in respect of our economy. Mr Speaker, I support the motion. 4.27 p.m.”
“In Nee Soon, we spent about $260,000 for similar purposes. Mr Speaker, from all these figures and facts, you can see how much attention the Government is paying to these rural people. We can now understand the Barisan Sosialis for boycotting us because they are unable to refute these facts. Apart from shouting slogans in this House, they are also drawing $500 allowance each. They are actually wasting public funds. Mr Speaker, it is the intention and aim of the Government in its second Five-Year Plan to provide some 60,000 housing units, mainly in Toa Payoh. We are also going ahead with our urban reconstruction. Some people have been affected by the resettlement scheme. Since 1st January, 1964, the Government has provided new rates of compensation. These new rates have made our work of resettlement very much easier. Those people affected by this scheme are in every respect given assistance in securing alternative accommodation. In our reclamation scheme we also provide much assistance to those affected so as to reduce their hardships, or whatever their difficulties, to the very minimum. The Government's policy is enlightened. That is why the pro-Communist anti-nationals have not been able to instigate the people who have been affected by these schemes to go against the Government. So in order to look after their own interests and their welfare, the people must increase their vigilance. In fact, the Government have learnt a great deal over the past few years, and they now realise the importance of co-operating with the people; and in return we too respect them very much. This again shows that the people and the Government are now almost one in the intention and common effort to establish a better nation in which to live.”
“This year the Urban and Rural Services Consultative Committee has spent some $4 million on social amenities, $2 million of which was spent on providing electricity to some kampongs, so that the poor people in the rural areas can also enjoy modern facilities in our society. This has also enabled them to be free from having to pay for electricity provided by private generators where the supply is restricted to certain hours only. We have also provided standpipes in the rural areas so that the number of people dependent on well water is decreasing. Less and less people are drawing water from wells and more and more people are getting their supply of water from the taps. In fact, it is the policy of the Government to try to provide every home in the rural area with at least a water tap. We have built some 52 miles of roads in the kampong areas at a very high cost. The efforts of the Government are well appreciated by all the people in the 51 constituencies, including those represented by the Barisan Sosialis. In fact, we do not regard the constituents represented by the Barisan Sosialis as outcasts. We are paying just as much attention to them as to the other constituents. It is a matter for regret that the Barisan Sosialis are not here to speak on behalf of the people they represent. At any rate, as a responsible Government, we will do all we can through the Urban and Rural Services Consultative Committee to provide modern facilities to all the constituencies. We can give a few examples. In 1965 in the Choa Chu Kang constituency which was represented by the Barisan Sosialis, we spent some $290,000 on the construction of roads. In Bukit Panjang, we spent some $310,000 for the purposes of providing electricity and water.”
“I do not wish to make any further repetition, but I would like to bring out a few highlights on this matter to give my colleagues here a better and clearer picture. It is the policy of the Government to look after the interests of the various races, and this has been stressed over and over again in the past few years ever since we came to power. We want to set up a multi-racial society. We want to look after the interests of all the people, whether they live in the city or in the kampong. We do not care whether they are Chinese, Malays, Indians, Eurasians, or members of any other race. We give equality to all. We give the same treatment to all people, irrespective of the colour of their skin or creed. This is the basic policy of the Government. Mr Speaker, you can go to any kampong in Singapore and see there that the livelihood of the people is not very far below the standard of living enjoyed by the urban people. In fact, we can boast that public amenities and other facilities in our kampongs and rural areas are far better than some of those provided in the urban areas of other South-East Asian countries. So the work that we have done in raising the standard of living of the rural people, and apart from that of the city people, has met with great success. This success has been made possible by the Rural and Urban Services Consultative Committee. We have installed many standpipes and we have provided electricity to a great many kampongs. We have also built roads and jetties in some of the surrounding islands of Singapore during the period 1960-65. We have spent some $20 million in these projects and we have not wasted a single cent or effort.”
“Generally speaking, our neighbouring country does not seem to like the emergence of a multi-racial society. They do not wish to see the success of our multi-racial policy. The question of the separation of Singapore from Malaysia was brought up in the Malaysian Parliament recently. On this particular occasion, the racialist ultras seemed to be rather unhappy about it. Even some of the Malaysian Ministers shared similar feelings with these ultras. Their performance came as no surprise to us, because we knew that they did not like the emergence of a multi-racial society. In their minds, they had the idea of suppressing us or even destroying us. In fact, they harboured this intention. Because of our determination and decision to establish a multi-racial society and our concerted effort to achieve such a goal, we are still able to survive. We shall strive further for our future survival. We must, however, make certain calculations about these people. What effect will they have on us if one day they assume power across the Causeway? We must, therefore, plan well ahead of time and have long-term policies against such an eventuality. In order to ensure that our multi-racial society will succeed, we must of necessity set up a multi-racial army and defence corps, because we must depend on our own strength to protect our society and nation. We must have well-trained armed forces to protect our own security and survival. This is one of the very basic principles we must have in mind. Mr Speaker, in the speech of the Yang di-Pertuan Negara delivered in this House on behalf of the Government, certain references have been made to our national development.”
“This is because the people themselves have seen through the plot and intrigues and the puerile efforts of these anti-national elements. The people are no longer moved by them. Mr Speaker, these anti-national elements know that the moment Nanyang University is put on the right track they will lose a training ground for Communist cadres. That is why they are doing all they can to stop Nanyang University from getting on to the right track. Thus, they have to pretend to be the champions of Nanyang University and Chinese education so that they can do harm instead of good to Nanyang University. If they are really sincere in their so-called love for Nanyang University, then they should not write nonsense and slogans on the walls of buildings of Nanyang University. By so doing, they are in fact causing the University to spend more money. Mr Speaker, it is the policy and determination of the P.A.P. Government to establish a multi-racial nation. This is a necessity, rather an ideal, We must of necessity look after the interest of the minorities in our nation so that they will forever become part and parcel of the entire nation. In fact, safeguards for the minority groups will be written into the Constitution. This is in line with our policy of multi-lingualism and multi-racialism. We have already got the support of the people. Our policy has, in fact, achieved success in this field. We will go a step further by consolidating our strength. This will give us more confidence in order to achieve even greater success. This, of course, will have great repercussions on our neighbouring countries where feudalism is on the decline. It is inevitable that the emergence of a multi-racial society will come about.”
“The second point in the Report is to try to make Nanyang University a multi-lingual University so that it can be run on a sound basis. Some changes have been made in the courses of study. Certain recommendations have been made with a view to turning Nanyang University into a properly run and well managed institution of higher learning to meet the requirements of our society. The graduates of the University would then be able to meet the aspirations of the people with sympathy and understanding. In the new situation now that we are independent, we require more and more people with talent to participate in the work of nation-building. If after some reforms, Nanyang University is able to turn out more graduates to meet the requirements of our society, then it is to be recommended. How can it be said that this is a move to anglicise Nanyang University? After all, we have already decided and agreed that Nanyang University shall remain a University with Chinese as the medium of instruction. There is no dispute over this point. But some of the pro-Communist elements in Nanyang University resorted to vandalism by writing nonsense on walls all over the university campus. They even attempted to burn down the hostel in Nanyang University. They did so in the name of preserving Chinese education. They also attempted to boycott classes for the same reason. With the support of the pro-Communist trade unions and old boys' associations, they go round and paste slogans and posters at bus shelters and sometimes in the buses themselves. They want to create an impression among the people that the Government is doing harm to Nanyang University in the hope that they can whipp ill-feelings against the Government. But fortunately for us, they have not been successful in their attempts.”
“The first force, as has been said in the speech by the Yang di-Pertuan Negara, is the force of communalism. The second force is Communism. We can see, and we understand very clearly, that the communal ultras have been and are still shouting the slogan of one race, one religion and one language. They have been doing this for the past two years. These ultras are trying to do all they can to indoctrinate the people of this nation with their ideology in order to split the people and break up national unity. At their instigation, some of our people have done foolish things in certain circumstances. But now the picture is entirely changed. Although we can say that they are, to a certain extent, well contained, the people must, nevertheless, be vigilant against the other broadsides these ultras may deliver at the people. We now come to the open front Communist organisations. Mr Speaker, ever since we achieved independence, these open-front organisations and elements have tried to undermine the stability and security of our nation. They tried to make Nanyang University an issue in order to create trouble in our society. So these Left-wing trade unions and the old boys' associations, together with a few pro-Communist elements in the university campus, attempted to describe the Wang Gung-Wu Report as a Government measure intended to anglicise Nanyang University. They say that this is the intention of the P.A.P. Government. They do so in order to create a feeling of resentment among the people against the Government. Mr Speaker, we can see that the main point in Professor Wang Gung-Wu's Report is that Nanyang University should have two systems, one system for general degrees and one system for honours degrees. This is something which Nanyang University has never had.”
“In the field of foreign affairs, we are adopting a policy of non-alignment and neutrality. That is why we have enhanced our reputation in the international arena and we have won a lot of friends and support, both in Afro-Asian countries and in Eastern European countries. Lately, the Goodwill Mission, led by the Deputy Prime Minister, were welcomed wherever they went. Everywhere they went they were well received too. Mr Speaker, the anti-nationalist elements in our midst, however, have turned round to say that the independence we have achieved is phoney. These remarks are totally unfounded, particularly in view of the fact that we have been admitted into the United Nations. This shows that we are truly independent and that we are not just independent in name. The United Nations is a very well respected international organisation, and it will not easily admit a country as a member if it has not achieved true independence. The remark of the Barisan Sosialis that ours is a phoney independence is intended to create a wrong impression in the minds of the Afro-Asian countries. But their schemes and intrigues have been exposed. They have been broken into pieces and this is very encouraging to us. There is one other thing we must note. Their boycott of the first Session of Parliament may be an indication that they have lost confidence in the system of parliamentary democracy. This may mark a change in their policy; a departure from the constitutional struggle in Parliament to a struggle by violence. That is why we must increase our vigilance against whatever move they may make or are making. Mr Speaker, we are faced with two great forces in our efforts towards nation-building.”
“Then the people who are inseparable from us living in Malaysia will also try to emulate us. As I have said, planning for the year is in spring and the planning for the future of Singapore is now. So this is the time for us to plan for our future, and I hope everybody will live up to the duty expected of him. 3.59 pm The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for National Development (Mr Ho Cheng Choon)(In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, His Excellency the Yang di-Pertuan Negara has delivered the Speech on behalf of the Government and it is very encouraging to many of us. In it we can see very clearly for ourselves that a new nation has been born with all sovereignty and integrity. It has already got all the plans for our future. Just like some other newly independent countries in Afro-Asia, the people of Singapore are now in control of their own destiny and they can decide the future for themselves. But inevitably, with independence, we will meet with more difficulties and responsibilities. This is natural and we recognise this fact. We are a small country in South-East Asia and our destiny and fate are closely intertwined with the fate and destiny of the other peoples in the same region. Therefore, in the course of nation-building, the stability of our country must necessarily depend upon the establishment of a multi-racial society with equality for all. In the meantime, in the international field, we must make sure that we are not isolated. All these are factors that will ensure our survival. Mr Speaker, ever since we achieved independence, Singapore has smoothly and without any haste become the 117th member of the United Nations. This fact is undeniable. Nobody can dispute that at all.”
“The people will keenly take up the challenge to join the army or the volunteers. In spite of the army or volunteer force that we may have, it is still too small to defend our country. That is why we need the protection and help of our friends. That explains the presence of British bases in Singapore. The bases in Cuba, however, are controlled by the United States of America, it is quite different from the British bases here, because they are here with the consent of our Government for our own protection. This has been recognised by the Afro-Asian countries which recognise that the existence of the bases in Singapore does not infringe on our territorial integrity and sovereignty. It is for our own defence at our own request. The Barisan Sosialis have called on the people not to join the volunteers or the army. They have also denounced the existence of the bases. But if a foreign country tries to invade us, what will they do? Do they want to hand over Singapore to them? They do not even want to see Singapore exist or survive. They call upon the people not to join the army or the volunteer force. As everybody knows, this House has allotted $10 million in this respect but we will have trebled this amount. The confrontation by Indonesia has not caused losses to us as expected. It is only $10 million which was spent in social aid for the unemployed. The existence of Singapore can be safeguarded through Government policies and many measures. Here I would like to stress that the people of Singapore will have to be on the alert and to depend on themselves. That is the basic spirit of the people of an independent country. I believe that we can rely upon ourselves. We should be self-reliant and we should be able to stand on our own feet for our survival.”
“And even our neighbouring countries have recognised this. But, on the other hand, there are certain countries which have to incur a great deficit every year, millions of dollars, because of ill-planning and mal-administration. I do not really mean to be unkind to our neighbouring countries. Our non-aligned policy, as everybody knows, has already won us many friends, both from the West and also from the East. We have won many friends in Afro-Asian countries. We have established good relationships with Eastern European countries and also with Russia. Yugoslavia and Russia have promised to send a delegation to Singapore early next year. The Republic of China in the past two years did not buy our rubber but has now trade relationships with us. It has bought some rubber from us. From all sides, we are seeing a favourable response. They are keenly interested in our friendship. I have reason to believe that at the right time, many more will come with us and the Republic of China will recognise us. We are going ahead with our long-term plan. Singapore is a small country with an area of 224 square miles. We also have substantial revenues every year. But the expenditure on defence is quite large. We cannot afford to have a big army. Therefore, we have to build only a small army with the support of a voluntary people's defence corps. Sir, this will have to depend on the support of the people. Our people are very conscientious and will certainly live up to our expectations. When the Japanese invaded Malaya, they fought bravely against them. They are resolute and courageous enough to defend themselves for their own existence. The 10,000 volunteers in the people's defence corps can safely be said to be forthcoming.”
“If they do not recognise Singapore, then Singapore can also legally denounce them. The Barisan Sosialis in their Party organ has also denounced the worth and value of democracy. This clearly goes to show that they are no longer going along the way of democracy to carry out their politics. They are forsaking the constitutional democratic line. What is the conclusion expected of this sort of action? It is an armed and bloody revolution. I would like all the people and the Barisan Sosialis to pay attention to what I am going to say. The Barisan are inspired by Jakarta and are directed by Peking. What are the views of Peking and Jakarta on Singapore? According to Peking news, Peking considers the Government led by Mr Lee Kuan Yew as a moderate Leftist Government. This would be an eye-opener to the Barisan Sosialis. Singapore's Government is recognised as a Left-wing moderate Government. There is a Chinese saying that everything that can be achieved in the year must be planned in spring. And everything pertaining to one's livelihood should be planned early in one's life. So this saying can be applied to our present situation. In other words, in the beginning of the year, in spring, we should plan for the whole year and we should also plan in the early morning for the whole day. In the same way, we should also have a long-term plan for the future of Singapore, just like every individual should have his own plan for his life. And the policy speech outlines the plan for Singapore for the coming year, which is a long-term plan not only for the coming year but also for a long time to come. Ever since 1959, when the P.A.P. came to power, it has been planning for the future and our plan is many years ahead. Our achievements have been beyond expectations in many fields.”
“Mr Speaker. Sir, the Barisan Sosialis have boycotted us this time. They think that this act might create an impression on the people of Singapore. That is their intention of boycotting the Parliament. But the people are politically sophisticated. They can see through the intention of the Barisan Sosialis. The boycott has somewhat increased our burden because we now have to consider their point of view in addition to our own point of view. Before any measure or legislation can be approved by this House, we have to consider the pros and cons from every angle. According to general speculation, the reasons for the Barisan boycott are, firstly, that they have nothing more worth while to offer to this House; they cannot make any more contributions to the people of Singapore. Secondly, the Chairman of their Party fears that their Members in this House may not want to obey his instructions when they speak, thus endangering his prestige and his leadership. Because his position has thus been threatened, he has ruled that these Barisan Members should not come to this Assembly. I will not criticise the Barisan Sosialis any further. There are, however, a few points to which I would like to draw the attention of the House. Members of the House are elected by the voters, and they should be responsible to the people and to speak on their behalf. The boycott of Parliament by the Barisan Sosialis has, in fact, been a betrayal of the trust of the people. They are shirking their responsibility, and they even go a step further by denouncing our independence and saying that it is a phoney independence. If they do not recognise independent Singapore, then I would like to ask them what kind of people they are. Are they citizens of Singapore or are they citizens of any other country?”