Christopher de Souza
Singapore
“I thank the Minister for his comprehensive reply. My supplementary question arises out of our deployment of our Multi-Role Tankers Transport. I think our airmen and soldiers, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and MINDEF should be commended. It was a complex high-altitude mission, and it was successful.”
“Much obliged, Sir. My supplementary questions draw from the fact that the situation displays: one, how Singapore has agency; and two, how Singapore can use the situation as a catalyst.”
“It cannot be allowed to be the master. It does not moralise. Thus, as we embrace AI, we must do so with discernment. We should use it to the extent that it facilitates decision-making, but it cannot be allowed to usurp our decision-making. Innovation cannot come at the expense of trespassing on some existing IP rights.”
“In relation to the study on the drug trafficking and the death penalty. In fact, in response to that, I think there is a very good statistic that we should elaborate on in this House and also out there in education that 15 grams of diamorphine feeds 180 drug abuses for one week.”
“The Singapore Land Authority plays an important role in unlocking the value of state land for community use. As a sportsman, I have personally seen with immense joy how underutilised spaces, such as areas under flyovers, can be transformed into safe and vibrant places for sport and recreation, whether for pickleball, futsal, badminton, te…”
“To propel our status as a hub, Singapore will need infrastructure, such as exhibition facilities, to showcase mediation capabilities, breakout rooms, bilateral mediation hearing rooms as well as printers, laptops and screens for settlement agreements to be typed out.”
The complete record
Every one of 1,264 lines we hold for Christopher de Souza, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 13 of 26.
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move*, "That this House fortifies Singapore's resolve to stay united against the threat of terrorism by reaffirming the core values of multiracialism and social cohesion and calls on the Government to continue (a) promoting vigilance and resilience among Singaporeans to deter and overcome terrorist attacks; (b) preventing the spread of radicalised teachings which promote violent extremism; and (c) investing in multiracialism as the best socio-weapon to defeat the ills that terrorism seeks to sow". [(proc text) *The Motion also stood in the names of Dr Intan Azura Mokhtar, Mr Murali Pillai and Dr Tan Wu Meng. (proc text)] Sir, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) may have powerful weaponry; the Home Team may have sophisticated arsenal, but our nation's best artillery against a terror attack is multiracialism. Multiracialism is the bedrock, the foundation that will neutralise and defeat the ills terrorism seeks to sow. We have effective, professional and responsive uniformed teams working to keep us safe − the Singapore Police Force (SPF), the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), working together with SAF, working in turn with the Internal Security Department (ISD) and the Security and Intelligence Division (SID). But terrorism is not a fight they are to battle against alone. Every Singaporean has a role to play. Why the need to debate this now? There are three reasons: first, we face a regional threat; second, we face a global threat; and third, we have been specifically targeted. Let me deal with the regional threat first and, with your leave, Mr Speaker, may I display some slides on the light-emitting diode (LED) screen?”
“This would have disadvantaged the worker who worked overtime since there would be no WIS payout for those earning above $1,500. Due to your resolve in this House, the Government was persuaded and modified the qualifying threshold from $1,500 and below to $1,700 and below per month. Low-wage workers who worked overtime benefited as a result. Third, as Speaker of the House, you took a keen interest in the topics raised by Members. I had sought your consent to file a Private Member's Motion on Strengthening Singapore's Fight against Drugs earlier this year. You kindly gave your consent but went further. You shared your perspective on the need to assist the many families broken by drug addiction, especially the children of drug addicts, for the children are the innocent ones. It was not just another Parliamentary topic for you. You wanted change and provided perspectives to help effect that change. Courage, resolve, integrity. Madam, many of us here will remember you for those attributes. It has been a privilege to have walked alongside you. [Applause] 1.51 pm”
“Twice, you have been called on to be Acting Speaker, once in 2012 and again in 2017. On both occasions, you discharged the duties selflessly. Your dedication is exemplary to many of us who are younger than you. Thank you, Mr Chong. [Applause] Sir, allow me to record words of thanks to our former Speaker, Mdm Halimah Yacob. Courage, resolve, integrity − these attributes were so evident when you, Madam, stood up to deliver speeches in this House. Those attributes were at work when you took positions for the vulnerable outside the House. I experienced these first-hand. Let me share three instances. In 2009, Madam, you, Ms Denise Phua and I shared with one another our respective concerns about the Human Organ Transplant (Amendment) Bill. We were concerned about how much money could be paid in reimbursement for loss of earnings of the donor and the inadvertent consequences that may bring. We decided to raise these concerns in Parliament. The whip was lifted. At the end of the debate, all three of us recorded that we could not support the Bill. Ms Denise Phua and you abstained, and I voted no. By your example, I learnt a lesson: if one holds a conviction, have the courage to defend it. A second example is how, for many years, you pushed for the improvement of workers' lives and livelihoods. When the Government introduced the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme, you requested in 2007 that the $1,500 or below salary per month qualifying threshold not include overtime pay. Why? Because you did not want to penalise the cleaners and security guards who worked overtime to make ends meet. Working overtime would have meant earning a wage slightly higher than $1,500 per month.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, congratulations on your election as Speaker of the House. You have a key role in presiding over the proceedings of the House and I trust that you will do so with an even hand and with fairness to all present. Your openness to different points of view will be an asset to the Speakership of this House. That openness, that characteristic of yours I experienced first-hand when tabling the Prevention of Human Trafficking Bill. You were the Minister for Manpower then, in 2014, and I had hoped that the definition of human trafficking would not only include sex trafficking but labour trafficking as well. You kindly agreed. But not only that, you extended MOM's support throughout the public consultation process in the lead-up to the debate in Parliament. I remain grateful for that. Thank you. As a result, we have a more robust legal and enforcement framework to tackle human trafficking on our shores. If I may, Sir, I would like to make one request. While presiding over the proceedings that you, Sir, give latitude, give room, for independent thought and innovative suggestions to flourish in the course of the debates. There is a great deal of goodness and constructive values in many of the suggestions of Members of this House. Members come prepared with highly thought through proposals. It is a sincere hope that you will protect the sanctity of independent thought and constructive values. If harnessed well, they will work towards the betterment of the Singaporeans whom we all serve. Sir, I wish you well in that endeavour and in your new role. Allow me, Mr Speaker, to speak of two more people. Mr Charles Chong. Mr Chong is a reliable senior Member many of us look up to and a dependable encourager. It helps that Mr Chong has a wonderfully disarming sense of humour.”
“I thank the Minister for his comprehensive reply. Will there be more joint exercises between the Home Team and SAF to help ensure that both forces synergise their efforts and arsenal against the threat of terrorism? Will there be a joint response from both forces should a terrorist threat, unfortunately, vest on our shores?”
“Thank you, Madam. I thank the Minister for his comprehensive reply. The Minister had said recently that there were two more individuals picked up for radicalisation. Can the Minister kindly share the profiles, if at all possible, of these two that were recently picked up? My second question is, if it is a Singaporean who is being potentially radicalised, there is a family in Singapore and there is a family support network who could encourage him and even report him to get help. My question is: is that not a little bit more difficult where it is a foreigner where he does not have that sort of accountability, mechanism, in the form of a family? What is MHA's approach to ensure that his peer support mechanism does report him? What does MHA do to encourage those support mechanisms to report foreigners to the authorities?”
“It has been, and I trust, will always be, Singapore first, for him. It is "Majulah Singapura!" for him. However, I also have a sacred duty to the constituents I represent and serve. Therefore, it is incumbent on me and my duty as an elected Parliamentarian and Government Parliamentary Committee Chair for the Ministries of Home Affairs and Law to ask the tough questions. So, the debate has to be robust. But the debate's robustness is not only to advantage all Singaporeans to get to the bottom of the facts but it is also to show jurisdictions and the press worldwide that we allow facts to speak for themselves in this House. Much has been said by the foreign press about this kerfuffle. The New York Times, SCMP, Cable News Network (CNN) have gleefully covered this. It is my hope that the responses will put an end to the doubts. Then, we can steer Singapore back to important affairs of the state. What is of foremost importance to me is the continued good reputation of our system of Government and that Singaporeans continue to have confidence in that system, a system built by Mr Lee Kuan Yew and our founding fathers, a system we have a deep duty to advance and to protect.”
“Tenth, on 14 June 2017, Mr Lee Hsien Yang said, "Hsien Loong has asserted to the Committee that Lee Kuan Yew would 'accept any decision by the Government to preserve 38 Oxley Road.'… In doing this, Hsien Loong has deliberately misrepresented Lee Kuan Yew's clear intentions for his own political benefit. He has also gone back on his own declarations that he would recuse himself from all Government decisions involving 38 Oxley." Is it true or false that the Prime Minister has misguided a Ministerial Committee to fulfil his own personal purposes? These series of questions are questions that are drawn from the multiple allegations thrown at the Organs of State, the Prime Minister and his office. In short, the insinuations of Mr Lee's and Dr Lee's allegations are that there has been an abuse of power and that the Organs of State carry out agendas beyond the scope of their mission. Hence, the need for this thorough debate. It is my view that no mission of an Organ of State in Singapore should lay subservient to a personality. More so this House. Its mission to serve the electorate must never be compromised or seen to be compromised. It must be so, for this system of governance must last for generations to come and must be held in high regard by Singaporeans through that course. That is why these allegations must be aired, debated, answered to. Such rigour brings accountability, such accountability brings trust, such trust ensures productive leadership, and such productive leadership brings about a working, functional Singapore. Today is an example of the rubric for accountability. Before I close, I want to say this. I have worked with the Prime Minister for a number of years now, and I have never had cause to doubt his integrity and loyalty to the country.”
“" Is it true that ensuring the Prime Minister's power remains unchallenged, if that is at all true, trumps independent political legitimacy? Third, to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Mr Lee Hsien Yang has said, "A few of the attacks that we have had to face in private are now public − false accusations, character assassinations, the entire machinery of the Singapore press thrown against us." Is it true or false that the Government has used the Singapore press to target Dr Lee Wei Ling and Mr Lee Hsien Yang? Fourth, they continued to say, "They see many upright leaders of quality and integrity throughout the Public Service who are constrained by Hsien Loong's misuse of power at the very top." Is it true that the Public Service is constrained by the Prime Minister's misuse of power at the top? Fifth, is it true or false that the leadership and direction of the Government is directed for personal purposes or any other improper purpose? Sixth, is it true or false that Organs of State may be used for personal agendas? The seventh set of questions is about the Cabinet and the Ministerial Committee. Is it true or false that the Ministerial Committee is merely a facade and that the Prime Minister is able to influence it one way or the other? Eighth, is it true or false that the Ministerial Committee never told Mr Lee Hsien Yang and Dr Lee Wei Ling about options they were exploring? Ninth, on 15 June 2017 at 9.25 pm, Mr Lee Hsien Yang wrote, "Hsien Loong's public statement to Parliament contradicts the statutory declaration he made to his secret committee. It is wrong to lie to Parliament and it is wrong to lie under oath." My question: is it true or false that the Prime Minister lied to Parliament?”
“We have begun to show evidence of his misuse of his position and influence to drive his personal agenda. This Parliamentary session is a forum that again places Hsien Loong before his subordinates. They lack both sufficient background and evidence of the numerous instances of abuse and conflicts of interest, many yet to be raised. Historically, few PAP MPs have dared to dissent even when the Party Whip was lifted. There will be no opportunity or adequate time for evidence to be properly drawn together, placed before Parliament, and considered. Indeed, it could also be an opportunity to continue to mislead or insinuate under this privilege." The allegation infers that there are issues that need to be addressed that may not have, as of yet, surfaced. I do not want to prejudge the situation. It is my hope that whatever can be addressed at this session be addressed, that is, all that have been brought up since 14 June and whatever else Mr Lee Hsien Yang and Dr Lee Wei Ling could launch. Deal with the whole lot now, instead of having to reconvene if future and different allegations are made. With that, I would like to ask some questions pertaining to the crux of the allegations. The first set of questions is relating to the Government as a whole. Dr Lee Wei Ling and Mr Lee Hsien Yang have said, "We fear the use of the Organs of State against us and Hsien Yang's wife, Suet Fern." My question: is it true or false that the Organs of State are being abused to target Mr Lee Hsien Yang and Dr Lee Wei Ling? Second, "[Dr Lee] Wei Ling and [Mr Lee] Hsien Yang question whether able leaders with independent political legitimacy will be sidelined to ensure Hsien Loong's grip on power remains unchallenged.”
“Mdm Speaker, Organs of State are key pillars in Singapore's system of Government. Each has an indispensable mission. When allegations are made against Organs of State, that they cower to personalities, that they are subservient to personalities, then I begin to take those allegations very seriously. Why? I have spent my adult life in Organs of State. I happened to have served in four − a judicial officer in the Supreme Court, then posted to the AGC and, thereafter, appointments in the State Courts and the Supreme Court, and now, Parliament. In each office, I have never made the mission of the Organ of State subservient to any personality − never. In every Organ of State I have worked in, we worked toward a higher mission − the good of a working, functional Singapore − for generations of Singaporeans to come. So, for me, it is the allegations against the Organs of State that have migrated this family issue from the private domain into the sphere of public debate. And so, we are here today, in Parliament, to get to the bottom of these allegations, extract answers and determine their veracity. Not a pleasant exercise, but one that is required. I will focus on the allegations first, and then, will pose a series of questions arising from the allegations. I will focus on the allegations surrounding the misuse of Organs of State and abuse of power. I think it is better that I do not weigh in on the aspects of the will because I am a partner at Lee & Lee. Not Stamford Law. I am a lawyer at Lee & Lee and declare that for the Hansard record. So, let us get on with the allegations. On 29 June 2017 at 5.25 pm, Mr Lee Hsien Yang said this on Facebook: "We have serious concerns with Lee Hsien Loong's attempt to cover up and whitewash himself in Parliament on 3 July.”
“In the second phase of the project, grassroots volunteers reach out to the new inmates' families by visiting them and grafting them into the community through events. They also connect them with much-needed resources and practical support. Accountability and effectiveness are enhanced through regular communication and updates.”
“That line shows that the number of drug abusers arrested from between 20 and 29 years of age hit the 1,000 mark and over in 2015 and 2016. This is the situation we are dealing with. We need to do something about it. To this end, the thrust of my third to sixth suggestions was to introduce new provisions in the Misuse of Drugs Act to deter trafficking and recruitment via the Internet, especially among those under 30 years of age. Our strong deterrent laws garnered support from Mr Vikram Nair, Ms Tin Pei Ling, Ms Kuik Shiao-Yin, Mr Alex Yam and Dr Tan Wu Meng. They agreed that strong deterrent laws continue to be important and have played an important part in Singapore's relative success. While they look at the need for deterrent laws to the drug abuser to stay away from drugs, they also recognised the need to rehabilitate, reintegrate and restore the drug abuser into society. As Ms Kuik Shiao-Yin puts it quite nicely, we are holding "both punitive justice and restorative mercy in tension", "a strong anti-drug stance against the traffickers paired with an equally strong pro-rehabilitation stance for the addicts." An integral part and an important part is the family − this is because the family and the children suffer, too, when the drug abuser is put into incarceration for extended periods of time. As Ms Kuik has put it, "The last thing we want is for kids to grow up motherless or fatherless which in turn increases the next generation's risk of falling into similar patterns of drug abuse and incarceration." Mr Louis Ng expressed the importance of reaching out to the family within the first week. An important initiative, as mentioned by Minister Shanmugam, is the Yellow Ribbon Community Project.”
“It is for this reason that I suggested that the First Schedule be flexible enough to deal with the influx of new psycho-active substances and that the move from the Fifth Schedule to the First Schedule be prompt enough to frame a drug trafficking charge. This does not just restrict but also deter the supply of such drugs before they can gain a sizeable demand. Thirdly, Asst Prof Mahdev Mohan and Mr Alex Yam highlighted the need to stem the "route" of drugs being shipped in through the Internet. This is why I proposed that a new offence be created with an enhanced punishment regime to tackle trafficking and recruiting through the Internet. Technology transcends geographical boundaries and, in this instance, it has turned dark. Through the Dark Net, drugs have become accessible. In a BBC documentary, a journalist ordered drugs online. It was an eBay-like user experience, it was in quick order processing time of mere hours and there was a delivery in ordinary-looking packages containing the drugs. Our region is not spared. This is a headline from the New Straits Times. It reads: "Drug pushers using WhatsApp, WeChat to sell, recruit school kids". This was dated just two months ago, 2 February 2017. We must be wary that social media can turn into a Trojan horse if left unwatched. Besides the Internet component, the other suggestion is the need to tackle the upward trend of drug abuse among those under 30. This trend has been raised by Ms Tin Pei Ling. As Dr Intan Mokhtar has highlighted through her stories, this is, indeed, a worrying trend. Look at the top graph. Please look at the top of the graph. The top bright blue line snaking out at the top, way above the rest − that is what we should be concerned about.”
“Sir, I would like to thank the 11 Members, including the Minister for Home Affairs, for speaking on this Motion and for their support. What they have shared is insightful and appreciated. As Dr Tan Wu Meng has expressed, "policy choices… set the tone for decades… and shape the lives of a generation." We have to stay vigilant for the sake of those who fall prey to harmful drugs and their families. It is important that the laws send a strong signal to those thinking of trafficking that it is not worth the transaction. As Minister Shanmugam has highlighted − this is a battle − it is regional and it is organised. That is the nature of what we are facing. As Ms Tin Pei Ling has shared, stiff penalties are not something anyone would wish to see applied and yet they are necessary, necessary for deterrence. Mr Vikram Nair and Mr Alex Yam touched on the importance of our laws which deter the supply of drugs. While they may differ on how the laws should be carried out, there is something in common that binds − the need to ensure that our drug supply laws are relevant enough to stem the supply of drugs. To that end, I had suggested a regular review of the Misuse of Drugs Act. My first suggestion is to calibrate the punishment of drug trafficking to take into account the harmfulness of cocktailed drugs. Some contaminants increase potency and lower the cost to produce. The consequences of a cocktailed drug can be more devastating to the drug user. Secondly, as Mr Alex Yam and Dr Intan Azura Mokhtar's points illustrate, it is important that our laws are able to deal effectively with synthetic drugs.”
“Started in Sweden, Mentor International, "provide(s) support, best practices and evidence-based mentoring programs that offer young people the inspiration, empowerment and motivation they need to make healthy life choices and view their futures more positively." The idea behind it is for students to have a guide to navigate through life − this increases the propensity to stay clear of drugs. Parents play a big role in drug prevention. There are two things that people, generally, and parents, in particular, in my view, need to know even before they are ready to hear any information they need to on drugs. They need to know that: (a) it is a matter that they should be concerned about; and (b) that they matter − that parents matter. Essentially, family is key. Where the family is dysfunctional, a good peer group is key. If no good peer group exists, then the at-risk youth needs to equip himself with ways to disbelieve that drugs are good. I have given some examples of how the at-risk youth can equip himself. Ultimately, the anti-drug culture must win the war against pro-drug propaganda. The mindshare of Singapore's youth is a key battleground − the pro-drug camp must be defeated there. Madam, in conclusion, we should fortify the arsenal and weaponry of Singapore in her fight against drugs. We should be at liberty to use the best weaponry for this crucial battle on our shores. We can build and share a common prosperity or we can disintegrate into a common poverty of spirit, a potential social abyss, which drugs can bring, insidiously, stealthily. The choice is ours. I hope, today, this House will fight against the pro-drug propaganda. [(proc text) Question proposed. (proc text)] 6.31 pm”
“" The shift in drug policy around the world is not driven by truth about drugs. Rather, in my view, a drug-tolerant culture is fuelled by those who stand to profit. Cannabis is touted to be "the fastest growing industry in America". It is projected to grow from $3.4 billion in 2015 to more than $10 billion by 2019. Harm reduction is a subversive slogan that calls for a permissive attitude towards drugs. It is touted as pre-emptive, not punitive, not deterrent. But in reality, it is a mere surrender on the war on drugs − it was exceptionally difficult in those countries to substantially stem the supply of drugs into their borders. This must never happen in Singapore. How do we ensure this? The first suggestion is that we include clear and informative learning material in our MOE Science syllabus, which should detail the host of ills and harmful effects of experimenting with drugs. Make it examinable material. We need to start young and reinforce it regularly by putting it in the Primary and Secondary school syllabus. Students have to be convinced. They need credible answers. We must address counter-arguments. Another important aspect of exposing propaganda is not just telling the truth, but also teaching how to find the truth. This is especially important as young people increasingly turn to the Internet as a source of information. Hence, it is important that students be equipped with the skills to (a) find credible sources of information and (b) be alert to the rhetoric used by the pro-drug camp. Pro-drug rhetoric says that drugs will solve problems, but is there another solution? People need to know that there is another solution. They need to be shown this.”
“Please look, in particular, at the line that extends all the way to 2015 − the percentage of traffic accidents in Washington where drivers have been tested positive for the active ingredient in cannabis. That has steadily increased since 2012 and has climbed rapidly upward. This is something we should not risk. The prevalence of drug abuse has also impacted the economy of Colorado. Large businesses now have to recruit out-of-state residents to find employees that can pass a pre-employment drug test. As a pre-construction company told The New York Times, "to find a roofer or a painter that can pass a drug test is unheard of." This slide shows an increase in calls, relating to cannabis, to the Poison Centre in Washington state. This means that even with restrictions on buying cannabis, more people unintentionally ingest cannabis. This is true even among those under 20. Colorado is also inflicted by this trend. In 2016, the Journal of the American Medical Association Pediatrics reported that "the rates of cannabis" exposure in young children, many of them toddlers, have increased 150% − this is for toddlers − since 2014 when recreational marijuana products went on the market legally." All of these are totally preventable. Most of the time, the cannabis came from family or friends. Attractive edible cannabis caused half of the known exposures. The pictures on this slide show edible cannabis and they give you an idea of how children can be so easily attracted to it. Do we want to expose our children to this on our shores? We need to expose these pro-drug lies for what they really are − out for profit. The pro-drug camp wraps lies in a palatable way, with phrases like − "right to do recreational drugs", "victimless crime", "harm reduction.”
“While muscular laws and effective rehabilitation are needed to combat the supply and demand elements of drug offences, we must also ensure that the overall national attitude or the cultural perception towards drugs remains strongly anti-drugs. We, as a society, must view drug trafficking and consumption with suspicion and disapproval. We cannot afford to slip into a pro-drug culture. We must remain, strongly, anti-drugs. Many countries have lost the war on drugs. In a defeatist narrative, these countries now proclaim the usefulness of "soft" drugs, such as cannabis. Such a narrative paints these soft drugs as harmless. Such spiel may sound attractive, but what it really indicates is that those countries are on the back foot in their already-weak fight against drugs. That narrative, though false, has permeated through the globe, such that a culture more tolerant to recreational drug use is setting root. Singapore could fall prey to such a culture. We cannot allow that to happen. We should reveal drugs for what they really are − harmful, addictive, destructive. The drug endemic in America is a prime example of what we should not allow to happen on our shores. There, drugs are not just tolerated but also promoted. Drug usage becomes the new normal. Lives are wasted, potential is wasted − all because of higher tolerance, which blossoms into the acceptance of a drug culture. In 2015, in the United States, overdoses on prescription and illicit opioids multiplied by four times since 1999. Since the legislation of cannabis, there has been an increase in traffic accidents and fatal traffic accidents in Washington state and Colorado, which have legalised cannabis.”
“Would the good Minister consider issuing a self-teaching workbook to each ex-drug addict upon release as a resource to help him resist the urge to do drugs? Family, Madam, plays an important role in the reintegration of an ex-drug addict. Families need to be equipped and empowered to fulfil their roles as the anchors they can be. A proactive family may ask these questions: how best to help the ex-offender? How best to interact with him? What to watch out for? Families need to be equipped with the answers. There may be shock, denial, hurt, a sense of betrayal. But, ultimately, who would not want their husband, father, son, or wife, mother or daughter back? Many would. The suggestion here is that DRC inmates be given more visitation time to facilitate the reintegration process. Family therapy is an initiative that could be looked into seriously within the DRC, attended by the inmates and their families. Another idea is for more families to attend family-focused workshops, like those conducted in 2006 by the Family Resource Centre. Topics were based on inmates' needs, as identified by their personal supervisors in prison, including parental, marital and reintegration issues. The suggestion here is to have a larger number of joint sessions involving the inmate and his family. For those with little or no family support, positive peer support can come in the way of Community Befrienders. The volunteer's role is important, especially since a new social network is critical for disengaging from the web of drugs. Madam, let me now move on to the last and third topic − the third part of the Motion, which is, preventing a drug-tolerant culture from setting root in Singapore.”
“When drugs are used to escape from difficult situations, it is important for rehabilitation that ex-drug addicts experience that there are other healthier ways of getting relief. For instance, physical activity and games help re-write the circuit and show that, yes, there can be relief outside drugs. Such activities also foster motivation through goal-setting and working towards a drug-free life. One example is Phoenix Multisport in the United States, where recovering, like-minded drug abusers who want to stay sober do exhilarating physical activities together. The idea is pleasure replacement − replacing the pleasure derived from drugs with more healthy activities. We should study to see how such models can be transferred into a DRC setting. With that, let me move on to reintegration, which is another key factor in lowering recidivism, which is a key component for rehabilitation. In the DRC, counselling on resisting the temptation to take drugs is head knowledge. But once the addict is released, he is plunged into a world where the temptations lurk about. The ex-drug addict needs to have counsellors available to him, post-release, to help him. One such support mechanism is the Serigaya Methamphetamine Relapse Prevention Program (SMARPP), a work-book based counselling exercise, in Japan. Research on the effectiveness of the Japanese programme found that it "increases a drug abuser's awareness of problems, their motivation for treatment and serves as preparation for group therapy." In 2016, researchers attempted to develop a web-based version, which included videos adapted from cognitive behavourial therapy, websites linked to addiction support services and self-monitoring colour-coded calendars, to enhance motivation.”
“In order to rehabilitate well, we need to look surgically at our recidivism rate. The current recidivism rate for DRC is 30.1%, almost one in three of our inmates is coming back through the door within the first two years. Furthermore, each year, more than half of the drug abusers arrested were repeat drug abusers. In 2011, a Task Force on Drugs was formed to "tackle the drug abuse situation." Through its recommendations, the Singapore Prison Service implemented the Community Rehabilitation Centre (CRC) and the Enhanced Drug Rehabilitation Regime. These are all good initiatives and recommendations, but there is a lot more we can do. Rehabilitation is, by its very nature, always a work in progress and I acknowledge the good work the Prison Service does in this regard. I also accept that there must also be a strong desire on the part of the drug addict to want to rehabilitate. I hope the following suggestions could be taken into consideration, with the mind of developing and adding to the Prison's good work. The first suggestion is to increase access to effective rehabilitation for lower risk inmates. We should make full use of the window of opportunity while an addict is low-risk. Lower risk inmates have a higher chance of recovery. If that opportunity is not grasped and he did not have the best chance for rehabilitation, he will soon relapse. By then, it may be too late. This is even more important for young drug abusers. Youthful years are meant to develop a good circle of friends and good peer support. That is why investing in the rehabilitation of young drug abusers is so important. But how can we do this effectively for the young drug abuser, as well as the older drug abuser? The answer lies in reconditioning. A key method of reconditioning is pleasure replacement.”
“Yes, it is right that we have the Drug Rehabilitation Centre to rehabilitate our drug addicts. Let us remember − it is the Drug Rehabilitation Centre. We have already chosen to subscribe to the philosophy of rehabilitation. For those six months to three years, we have chosen to take custody of the drug addict in order to rehabilitate him. It is only proper that we give the drug addict the best shot at turning over a new leaf. Each addict saved means another husband, wife or child saved. Each addict saved means one more valuable contributor to our society. Each addict saved is a life saved − a life saved from misery, self-harm, lost potential. Madam, with your leave, may I ask for the distribution of the handouts?”
“For example, an aggravated offence could be created where any act in the series of acts leading up to the eventual sale or potential sale of the drug was performed through the medium of the Internet or any social media platform. This may deter drug traffickers from using the Internet to advertise sales, potentially leading to reduced drug sales to youth. The fourth suggestion is to make an offence the act of recruiting, via the Internet, to traffic drugs using the Internet and to bring that new offence under an enhanced punishment regime similar to that for recruiting young offenders. The fifth suggestion is to have another tier of punishment for drug traffickers who possess the aggravating factors of (a) targeting persons under 30 years and (b) using the Internet. The sixth suggestion is that of defining Internet broadly in the MDA to include websites, social media platforms and applications. In particular, messaging applications, such as WhatsApp, often used by the younger generation, should be covered. Madam, I have completed the first part of my speech of why we need muscular drug laws to deter drug trafficking in Singapore and into Singapore. Now, I move on to the second point which is why we need to invest in rehabilitation so as to reduce the recidivism rate. Stopping the supply is one aspect. Helping those who have fallen into drug addiction to get out of it is just as important. There are several reasons why rehabilitation is important. First, we must distinguish between addiction and trafficking. Drug trafficking laws need to be tough − deterrence is the main reason for punishment. This is only right for a premeditated, greed-driven crime. Drug addicts need to be rehabilitated. They need to get out of the clutches of drug addiction.”
“The "First Schedule" should be "flexible" enough to quickly incorporate new drugs not previously outlawed, especially since new concoctions are constantly being attempted at by syndicates. This slide illustrates that it is important that our laws be able to keep up with New Psychoactive Substances (NPS). What is currently done by the Fifth Schedule which allows for "restricted circulation" is a good measure, but it is imperative for effective control of addiction that the move to make such substances "First Schedule" be prompt, that is, be prompt enough to frame a drug trafficking charge against it. The third suggestion is to insert a new provision in the MDA, creating a unique offence of sale of drugs over the Internet, attracting a higher penalty. Most commonly described as the Dark Net, more people are turning to the Internet to get their next fix. Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean also mentioned at the 5th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Drugs that "illicit dealers… used the Dark Net to attract new drug abusers. Our agencies have worked hard to catch such abusers and hold them responsible for their actions." The number of people arrested for buying drugs and drug-related paraphernalia online increased significantly from 30 in 2015, to 201 in 2016. That is a 570% increase over the span of one year. Due to the increasing number of youths experimenting with drugs and the huge potential of the Internet to facilitate sales to youth, we should consider specifically how an aggravated offence can be legislated where the trafficker uses any element of social media or the Internet to entice or procure sales.”
“One aspect to re-examine under a review is whether the law, as presently encapsulated in the MDA, can be better calibrated to address the harmfulness of newer drugs or drug combinations. For example, drugs are often mixed with contaminants or with other illicit drugs. These contaminants may affect the potency and addictiveness of the drugs. One recent example in America was heroin mixed with elephant tranquiliser. This potent mixture caused many to overdose and die. This contamination is driven by greed − more effect, with lower cost to produce. A common harmful contaminant is meat tenderiser. The meat tenderiser, which is normally used to "pre-digest" meat to make it tender, is mixed with the drug such that it "dissolves muscle and flesh" when administered. Essentially, we need to look at the detrimental effects of drugs in the raw, in the flesh and without rose-tinted glasses. There is a drug called "krokodil". It is named after the side-effects, crocodile-like skin − green, scaly and bumpy. If it misses the vein, it eats the flesh. It has been described as destroying "body tissue the way battery acid eats through plastic". Yet, this harmful drug made of codeine mixed with lighter fluid, industrial cleaning oil or the like, is three times cheaper to produce than heroin. This brings into sharp focus why we need to do all we can to ensure that drugs do not get a foothold, in particular. Hence, the MDA should not only be focused on the weight of the drugs trafficked but should also give due consideration to the potential harmfulness of the drug when mixed or cocktailed with available consumables. The second suggestion is that we would need quicker incorporation of new drugs into the First Schedule.”
“On top of her work as a cleaner, this devoted grandmother saw to her grandson's needs. Her grandson would often visit us. When he did well in school, we all celebrated. When things got tough, we encouraged. A bond has been built. But there is a missing link − his mother. Why? Drugs. When his mother was going to be released from the DRC, I wrote a letter to her personally. We wanted her to know what her own mother had to go through because of her drug addiction. We wanted her not to return to her old ways. In that letter, we offered her a job − a job that was near her house. We wanted her to be able to support her family and be there for her son. In the end, she thanked us but found somewhere else to work. I give another real life story. Just five days ago, at my MPS on Friday night, I met an aged grandmother. She requested assistance. Why? Because she was caring for her grandchild. Why? Because her son and her daughter-in-law are in prison. Why? Drug addiction. The grandmother needs to take care of her grandchild's schooling, sustenance. Let us be completely clear. Drug traffickers destroy lives and such destruction can be inter-generational. So, I ask this House, do we let the supply of drugs overtake us? Or do we fight back? Do we allow drugs to destroy the lives of Singaporeans or do we say, "No, not on our shores!"? Therefore, Madam, I propose that we re-examine whether the MDA needs a further review to ensure that it is constantly equipped with the legal arsenal and muscle it requires to deter the supply of drugs into Singapore. It is suggested that we revisit the law regularly. Through such regular reviews, the benefits and possible gaps in existing laws should become more evident.”
“Firstly, because of the spike in young drug abusers. The number of abusers arrested under the age of 30 has increased by about 20% since 2014. In 2014, the percentage of young abusers under the age of 30, compared to overall abusers, was 35.1%. In 2016, that percentage increased to 41.1%. Furthermore, in 2015 and 2016, the number of new drug abusers increased. Among the new drug abusers, close to two-thirds are below 30 years of age. The second reason why I ask for a review of the MDA is that the supply of cannabis is on an upward trend. In 2014, 2015 and 2016, the amount of cannabis seized increased each year by 125%, 26% and 22% respectively. In fact, the provisional statistics for January to June 2016 showed that the amount of cannabis seized in that six-month period was almost the same amount for the entire year of 2015. Another statistic of concern is the number of penal drug admissions. In 2011, the number of penal drug admissions decreased to an all-time low of 1,742. In 2012, the number jumped by almost 42% to 2,472. This was the highest in six years. Drug trafficking looks to have increased recently. The reply to a Parliamentary Question in September last year seems to suggest that trafficking has increased from 2011 and that the present figures remain higher than in 2011. Madam, why is it important to continue having harsh, muscular laws and having a regular review of the MDA? Because drugs kill lives. They destroy futures. Let me share how with real examples, examples similar to families each elected Member of this House has served, examples which show the destruction that drugs bring. For several years, in the constituency I serve, we helped a grandmother raise her grandson. Her daughter got hooked on drugs and spent time in prison.”
“To drive the point further on the harmfulness of drugs, let us do some sums. How many people does one think are affected by a drug trafficker who has trafficked the amount of drugs which may attract the death penalty? Two hundred and fifty grammes of meth feeds 185 abusers for a week and 15 grammes of diamorphine sustains about 180 abusers for a week. If one multiplies those numbers with the number of family members affected, the impact of drug trafficking is severely expanded. Let us say, for each addict, he has a spouse, a parent and two children. That means five people are affected − the addict himself and four family members. Multiplying 180 abusers a week by five, we get about 900 people affected. That is equivalent to about 30 platoons! If a person ran towards 30 platoons with a grenade, should not a lethal shot be fired to protect the 900 people? We need tough drug laws to prevent the immense harm drug trafficking inflicts on Singaporeans. These families are psychologically crippled over weeks, months, years; slowly, insidiously. Not only are the drug addict and his family affected by the actions of the drug trafficker, society is affected as well. Drug addicts need increasing doses of drugs to feel normal or to feel the next high. As a result, many resort to crime to fund their addiction. With an increase in crime rate, the security and peaceful environment we enjoy and take for granted will become threatened. It is for these reasons that I seek that the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA) be reviewed regularly so as to ensure that it contains the legal muscle it needs to deter the supply, that is, trafficking, and the demand, being the consumption − both elements of the drug offence. I call for a regular overview of the MDA. Why?”
“For example, the severe condition of "meth mouth" is associated with drug use − multiple teeth decay, teeth breaking completely at the gum line, gum disease and bone loss. Paranoia may result. Even in low doses, permanent brain damage may result: using cannabis as rare as once a week may irreversibly lower one's IQ. People characterise cannabis as a "soft" drug. What is a "soft" drug anyway? I completely disagree with the term "soft" drug. There is nothing soft about the ill-effects of drugs. Cannabis is harmful. Multiple studies have shown that cannabis can be a gateway drug to heroin and cocaine, especially among young abusers. Compared to the general population, there is a four-fold higher risk of mortality among those with cannabis-use disorder. So, you want to call cannabis soft? To do so is plain foolishness. To escape the clutches of illicit drug taking, some addicts have to endure excruciating symptoms, such as uncontrollable vomiting and diarrhoea and an unstoppable feeling of insects crawling under his skin. After overcoming addiction, the ex-addict would still need to battle the lure of drugs that will come back to haunt him throughout his life. It is not only the drug addict who is harmed. His family and those around him are deeply affected. A drug addict's ability to communicate and maintain good relationships is impaired. His mother, father, husband, wife, son, daughter, employee or employer will be affected. The physically and emotionally absent addict puts a strain on the family unit he is in. Last year, a picture from Ohio made its round around the world. It showed a four-year-old child left in a car with two adults overdosing and unconscious. A month later, yet another harrowing picture − this time, a 10-month-old infant in the backseat.”
“In 2014, the amount of cannabis seized spiked by 125% from 15 kg in 2013 to 35 kg in 2014. The next year, 2015, the demand for cannabis increased. For the first time, cannabis became the second most commonly abused drug among new abusers in Singapore. That year, there was about a 26% increase in cannabis seized from 35 kg to 44.3 kg. One year later, in 2016, the amount of cannabis seized continued to rise significantly. According to provisional statistics, during the first six months of 2016, the amount of cannabis seized was almost the same amount for the entire year of 2015. The data showed that over the entire year, the amount of cannabis seized increased by another 22% from 2015 to 2016. Therefore, muscular laws continue to be needed as they are both relevant and necessary. Stopping drugs from entering Singapore is an important aspect of solving the drug problem. To stem the supply of drugs, we need tough laws to deter the potential drug trafficker. After all, drug trafficking is, for the most part, pre-meditated. It is a coldly calculated risk between potential profit and potential punishment. What does one stand to gain from drug trafficking? Quick money. It is lucrative. Driven by greed, the drug trafficker takes the plunge. He lines his pocket with money at the expense of the drug addict, the addict's family and society. These tough laws are needed to deter harm − to deter harm to the abuser and to society. We must hold the line of tough and muscular laws. Let no one weaken it. We must strengthen this line, defend it and protect it. When a person becomes a drug addict, nothing else matters. He neglects his children, his parents, his job and his own health.”
“As Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean said at an ASEAN Ministerial Meeting, I quote, "We should also prepare well for the international debate on a new global action plan to tackle drugs. … We must not let softer approaches that allow the harm from drug use to spread..." Minister K Shanmugam correctly said in defence of Singapore's tough laws at last year's UN General Assembly, "For us, the choice is clear. We want a drug-free Singapore, not a drug-tolerant Singapore." These positions, which support a tough stance on drugs, should remain. With your permission, Madam, may I display some slides and photographs on the screens?”
“Madam, I beg to move*, "That this House strengthens the fight against drugs by reaffirming Singapore's strong anti-drug stance and calls on the Government to continue (a) applying tough laws to deter the trafficking of drugs into Singapore; (b) investing in the rehabilitation of drug addicts; and (c) preventing a drug-tolerant culture from being established in Singapore." [(proc text) *The Motion also stood in the name of Dr Intan Azura Mokhtar, Dr Tan Wu Meng, Ms Tin Pei Ling and Mr Vikram Nair. (proc text)] Mdm Speaker, increased drug abuse in Singapore is a matter of concern. Since 2011, more than 3,000 drug abusers are caught every year, out of which, about 1,000 are new. Among the new drug abusers in 2016, close to two-thirds were below 30 years of age. In 2015 and 2016, the Drug Rehabilitation Centre (DRC) admission increased when overall penal admission had decreased. Per the most recent statistics, almost one in three inmates is convicted again within two years. The brokenness of drugs is more than statistics. I have felt that brokenness on the ground. Before entering politics, I volunteered at the Singapore Anti-Narcotics Association to work with youths-at-risk and speak about the havoc drugs can create in their young lives. Drug addiction, for many, is the death of their drive and ambition. The Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) and the Singapore Prison Service are sterling institutions, staffed with dedicated and committed officers. Their effort in the fight against drugs is courageous. But, the fight is not only theirs to bear. All Singaporeans have a role to play. The first point is that we need to deter drug trafficking in Singapore and into Singapore. Stemming the supply of drugs is a critical part of the fight against drugs.”
“Allied health professionals, such as physiotherapists, dieticians and speech therapists, are important vocations which ease the load off doctors and nurses. Why not then formalise their training and continuing professional development through the vehicle of a new MOH-sponsored academy? A well-trained and professional allied workforce benefits the patients immensely, eases the doctor's workload and, importantly, provides meaningful career opportunities for young Singaporeans. Why not introduce diploma and degree courses in our polytechnics and universities to build up a locally trained body of allied health professionals to meet the growing need for healthcare? After these Singaporeans graduate, they can become members of an allied health academy, so as to keep abreast of latest developments and advancements in medicine, continue their professional development and share best practices. Outcome of Public Consultation”
“Madam, diabetes is a major problem in Singapore. It is projected that in less than 20 years, the number of diabetics in Singapore could rise to 670,000 and more than a million Singaporeans could get diabetes by 2050. According to the US Renal Data System Report last year, Singapore leads the world in the percentage of kidney failures caused by diabetes. In numbers, every two days, nine people lose their kidneys because of diabetes. Besides kidney failure, diabetes is also associated with heart attack and stroke. Furthermore, every day, four amputations are carried out because of complications from diabetes. Because of the high social and financial costs that diabetes has on the individual Singaporean, his family and society, war was declared on diabetes in April last year. Would the Minister provide an update on the programmes that it has recently introduced to combat diabetes, especially in terms of healthy diet initiatives and proposed regular exercise regimes? Ultimately, the war on diabetes is something we have to fight together and the best cure for it is prevention. Smart Ageing and Future Enabling (SAFE) Care”
“SIAC, SIMC, SICC, third-party funding, these are excellent initiatives. They do not fall from the sky. They are the brainchild of MinLaw and collective innovative drives. These will further enhance and entrench Singapore's status as a legal hub. It leaves me, therefore, to thank MinLaw for its hard work and seek leave of the House to withdraw my amendment. [(proc text) Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. (proc text)] [(proc text) The sum of $221,538,500 for Head R ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. (proc text)] [(proc text) The sum of $335,085,000 for Head R ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. (proc text)]”
“Access to justice is important in every rule-of-law society, every rule-of-law country. Initiatives, such as the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme (CLAS) and Legal Assistance for Capital Offences (LASCO), serve this important function in our criminal justice system. Last year, through the support of MinLaw, CLAS was able to employ two more senior advocates to mentor the other lawyers and to take on high-stake cases. Would the Minister provide an update on what further can be done to ensure access to justice for accused persons who may not necessarily be able to afford counsel? In terms of civil justice ‒ for there is criminal justice and then there is also civil justice ‒ in terms of civil justice, event-triggered fee arrangements have been debated but not without some controversy to promote access to justice. Would the Minister provide an update on the review to event-triggered fee arrangements in Singapore? [(proc text) Question proposed. (proc text)]”
“What is key for this to happen is the use of Singapore law as the governing law in dispute resolution clauses in both Singapore, Singapore party contracts, as well as Singapore foreign-party contracts. If the Ministry views the increased use of Singapore law at home and abroad as a positive development, what plans does MinLaw have to further strengthen Singapore's status as a dispute resolution hub, and how does it plan to promote Singapore law within that push? If I may, Mdm Chair, my next cut?”
“The latest statistics available is that of 2015, registering a record number of 271 cases filed in total. This comes up to a total of $6.23 billion in dispute, a 24% increase from 2014. In 2015, Singapore was ranked as the No 1 seat of International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) arbitration in Asia, and the fourth most preferred seat of arbitration in the world. Singapore's proximity, neutrality, reputation for rule of law and efficiency have been able to attract parties from all over the world, not just the region, but the world ‒ from India, China, South Korea, Australia, Vietnam, the US, Hong Kong, Indonesia, British Virgin Islands and Malaysia ‒ to adjudicate here. To capture the increase in opportunities expected as regional demand for dispute resolution continues to grow, the expansion of Maxwell Chambers is timely. But it is more than that. The investment into expanding Maxwell Chambers reflects both MinLaw's commitment to strengthening Singapore's status as a legal hub, as well as SIAC's high service standards, which I have personally encountered and experienced. It reflects both the long-term trajectory and the present quality of SIAC and MinLaw. This is excellent. In my opinion, the epitome of a legal hub is being the choice jurisdiction in which companies and individuals choose to have their rights adjudicated and arbitrated. How much better for Singapore's reputation as a rule-of-law society and country if the companies and individuals choose Singapore law as the governing law of the dispute? This will allow Singapore law to be developed and its jurisprudence, where valid and worthy, to be exported. It will also be a good advertisement for Singapore, that is, our laws work and can be applied well within the context of global and regional commerce.”
“Madam, I beg to move, "That the total sum to be allocated for Head R of the Estimates be reduced by $100". The Ministry of Law (MinLaw) has strategically built and strengthened Singapore's reputation as a legal hub. In so doing, several excellent initiatives have been launched: the physical expansion of Maxwell Chambers, thereby further boosting the Singapore International Arbitration Centre's (SIAC's) reputation as an exceptional arbitral education centre; the Singapore International Mediation Centre (SIMC) and the Singapore International Commercial Court (SICC). By providing these platforms, Singapore provides a complete suite of dispute resolution mechanisms alongside the Singapore Courts. I should declare my interest as a member of the Singapore Bar who practises both courtroom and arbitral litigation. Within the practice of law, Singapore's reputation for being a legal hub has been further established through local firms with cross-border expertise; through international firms situated in Singapore, through the qualified foreign law practice (QFLP) route, and through local firms entering into joint law ventures (JLVs) with international firms. Our local firms lean on the international networks of the London or New York-based firms, while the London and New York firms lean on the Singapore firms' clear, relevant and up-to-date knowledge and expertise of Singapore law, as well as the Singapore firms' knowledge of the region. With regard to dispute resolution in particular, Singapore's reputation as a choice arbitration centre is testament to the excellent growth of the adjudication mechanism of arbitration and the service provided by SIAC. Over the last decade, the number of cases filed at SIAC grew by more than 300%.”
“Yes, Madam, I do. Behind the scenes, many uniformed and non-uniformed Home Team officers keep us safe and we have much to thank them for. I enjoin all Singaporeans to work with them in our battle against those who seek to do us harm. So, this leaves me to thank the Home Team on behalf of the House, and I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. [(proc text) Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. (proc text)] [(proc text) The sum of $5,016,755,900 for Head P ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. (proc text)] [(proc text) The sum of $760,164,600 for Head P ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. (proc text)]”
“Some cybercrimes target Government frameworks. Such invidious acts threaten our national security. As there is a need to remain vigilant against all forms of cybercrime, would MHA kindly provide this House an update on (a) its recent and upcoming initiatives to enjoin Singaporeans to battle cybercrime; and (b) what has been done to minimise the incidence of cybercrime and mitigate its effects?”
“Given the destructive consequences problem gambling can bring to the family of a gambling addict, what measures are we taking to further reduce the incidence of remote or online gambling? Would MHA provide an update on the efficacy of the remote gambling regulatory regime, in particular, whether the number of problem gamblers has increased or decreased following the introduction of the exempted operator regime? Would MHA also provide the clamping down of illegal gambling through the recent regulatory framework? Offences Against Minors − Support Needed Madam, in the constituency I serve, there have been instances where parents have shared with me that, very unfortunately, their children have been sexually assaulted by adults. These parents are of the view that their children were molested. I see the anguish in their eyes and the concern they have for their children. One of the main desires of these parents is for the Police to accord priority to these cases and conclude the investigations as fast as they can. This is because the parents do not want to prolong the anguish of the child and, also, the child may find it difficult to recount the evidence as time goes by. Therefore, would the Minister direct their investigations into sexual abuse against minors be prioritised and expedited for the sake of the child and the parents? Parliament must also support the Home Team in ensuring that a strong message is sent to the culprits or potential culprits that society does not condone preying on innocent children. The Battle against Cybercrime Madam, cybercrime comes in many forms – online cheating cases involving e-commerce, credit-for-sex and Internet love scams. Each form is dangerous. Each cybercrime leaves the victim in a highly vulnerable state.”
“Madam, in 2016, the number of new drug abusers arrested increased by 3% from 2015, out of which, close to two-thirds were below 30 years of age. It is a matter of concern and we should be concerned. The method of obtaining drugs has also changed. Most alarmingly, the accessibility of the Internet has been exploited by drug traffickers. In fact, the number of people arrested for buying drugs and drug-related paraphernalia online increased significantly from just 30 in 2015 to 201 in 2016. Most of those found to have obtained drugs or drug-related paraphernalia online were between the ages of 20 and 39. In light of these recent developments, what measures are MHA and the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) taking action to deter the supply of drugs into Singapore? What percentage of the total prison population are serving sentences for drug-related offences? In order to tackle the drug problem holistically, rehabilitation is also vital. After the drug abusers are put into DRCs, what measures are taken to rehabilitate them with the mind to reduce recidivism rates?”
“In light of these challenges, I seek an update from the good Minister, in particular, how is the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA): one, tracking overseas terror threats; two, isolating potential threats from within Singapore society; three, reinforcing our enforcement response, such as manpower, equipment and the updating of our standard operating procedures against such threats; four, bolstering our communal response by strengthening multiracialism and national unity should a terror threat vest in Singapore. Furthermore, one, how can we carefully manage potential flashpoints? Let me repeat that because it is important. How can we carefully manage potential flashpoint incidents and strengthen our racial and religious harmony which is vital to Singapore in peacetime as well as in the aftermath of a terrorist attack? Also, how is MHA ensuring Singaporeans continue to welcome globalisation instead of turning isolationist, since we all know an isolationist Singapore will lead to her severe detriment. Let us not let our guard down. Let us strengthen our fight against terrorism and let us stand together with our dedicated Home Team in this collective fight against those who seek to do us harm. [(proc text) Question proposed. (proc text)]”
“These trends and movements could fuel further global discord among peoples of different cultures and ethnicity. Singapore and Singaporeans must resist these negative global trends and tides and never allow them to envelope Singapore. Thankfully, through initiatives, such as the ethnic integration programme in public housing and Racial Harmony Day, the different cultures and ethnic groups in Singapore are able to enjoy harmonious relationships. Nevertheless, we must continue to work at it. We cannot take it for granted. Why? Because in multiracial societies, where peoples of different creeds and races intermingle, the risk of flashpoints is higher. Singapore is no exception, and we have to be careful when we encounter incidents which may become potential flashpoints. For example, as recent as this week, I read that a Police report was made about an imam who was alleged to have made offensive remarks against Christians and Jews. It was assuring to read in that same report that the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) took the courageous and generous position when it stated that, "MUIS takes a serious view of any behaviour or speech which promotes feelings of enmity, hatred or ill-will among different faith communities." What we have attained, what we have enjoyed, we need to maintain, nurture and strengthen.”
“Madam Chair, I beg to move, "That the total sum to be allocated for Head P of the Estimates be reduced by $100." Last year, 2016, the clear and present danger of terrorism was made even clearer to us in Singapore. Why do I say this? In May 2016, it was revealed that "eight radicalised Bangladeshi men were detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) for plotting terror attacks in their own country, that they would meet in parks or open fields and share large amounts of radical propaganda and videos." Another five investigated under the ISA were repatriated. It was reported that Singapore could have been a target. Essentially, if they had been directed to attack in Singapore, they would have attacked. 2.00 pm In August 2016, the Indonesian police foiled the plan for a rocket attack on Marina Bay. It cannot get clearer. The threat of terrorism is real and the battle against it is for every Singaporean to bear. Being vigilant against an attack and staying united for an attack vest on our shores is key. If we stay united as one people, we will be successful in denying any terrorist his victory. We are very fortunate to have a dedicated, professional and reliable Home Team. That Home Team is a key pillar in our battle against terrorism, but it is not a fight for that team to bear alone. Singaporeans must play their part alongside dedicated Home Team officers to keep vigilant against terror threats. Such threats come in many forms ‒ acts of actual violence, radical ideology preaching discord, funding of terror cells or glorification through the Internet of senseless causes. Couple all of that with the trend around the world, in which governments start to look inward and become fervently nationalistic.”
“Thank you, Madam, for the right of reply. That is not my understanding of what Ms Sylvia Lim said. I think Ms Sylvia Lim said, "Look, on the one hand, you have a two-year runway or an X number of year runway for carbon tax. Why do we not just take a little bit more time for water?" I have explained that they are completely different subjects. Carbon tax, we have got to look at how our commitment is corralled within an overarching Paris Agreement, and how it impacts all the members who have ratified that. Therefore, a longer runway is completely justifiable. Versus a situation where we have had to deal with a situation where water is precious, it is a commodity, it is scarce and we have to act promptly. We are doing all we can in terms of the 17 reservoirs. The Linggiu Dam has been reported in Parliament to be twice the size of Singapore and has been depleted. So, rather than procrastinating about this, a swift move will also increase the value of water as being a precious commodity in the minds of Singaporeans. In addition to that, where price increases are concerned, I think it is a dollar increase per day for 75% of the businesses and, with the U-Save rebate, the 1- and 2-room flats will not suffer a detriment. Even with the swift movement, there have been measures to ameliorate the possible rise in price. Again, I go back to Ms Sylvia Lim's point. Ms Sylvia Lim's point was to compare carbon tax versus water. I think people in this House and people reviewing this debate will say that it is chalk and cheese. 12.56 pm”
“Let us ensure that a wide and wholesome menu of opportunities pervades our schools for the benefit of all students who turn up to learn every day. And let us assist younger Singaporeans to sink roots here, start their homes here and be part of a new band of Singapore pioneers. Budget 2017 advances these ideals and, therefore, merits our support. 12.53 pm”
“Water is completely in a different pool, if I may say. There has been an increase in price as demand for water that cost more to produce increases. We need to value water, and technology has already been deployed for water and has already been invested in. Two-thirds of Singapore's land is for water catchment, with 17 reservoirs, and the desalination plants have to be increased. And why the need for a rush? I think we have heard from both Minister Chan Chun Sing and also Minister Masagos that the Linggiu Dam is twice the size of Singapore, and we need many years to build the water level up again. We also need to take into account climate change. So, to compare carbon tax on the one hand and having a long runway and say, "Why are we not in a rush there?", and to juxtapose, contrast or alienate water as a completely comparable commodity is not something that I can agree with. It would cost less than a dollar per day for 75% of businesses. For 1- to 2-room flats, we will not see an increase through U-Save. So, while I listen to Ms Sylvia Lim's speech − I respect she can have a different view − I am not sure that the comparison between carbon tax and water is, indeed, a fair comparison. Madam, in closing, I conclude by observing that we live in a rapidly-evolving world. As a country, we need to have the foresight to prepare for the future. But, we must also guard the fundamentals and should, therefore, maintain a strong defence budget so as to protect our country's sovereignty and overcome those who seek to do us harm. Let us work together to protect and partner fellow Singaporeans who move from vulnerable industries to sun-rise enterprises.”