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.”
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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 14 of 26.
“Before I close, Madam, I would just like to share that I was in the House and had the opportunity to listen to the hon Ms Sylvia Lim's speech just moments ago. She seems to be supporting the Workers' Party position that it is good to not have carbon tax introduced so quickly, yet it is not good to introduce the tax on water quickly. I respect that she is entitled to her views but I am afraid, Madam, I cannot agree with those views. Carbon tax and water are quite different. For carbon tax, the history was that once we ratify the Paris Agreement, we have to reaffirm commitment to address climate change and reduce emissions. It is actually quite a long runway in order to implement what we need to implement to honour the ratification. The issue of carbon tax affects all countries, not just Singapore, or not just Singapore and our immediate neighbours. In particular, small island states like ours, as part of the Agreement, Singapore has pledged to cut emission intensity by 36% below 2005 levels by 2030 and stabilise emissions with the aim of peaking around 2030. So, it is a long runway, it is actually a 13-year runway. And carbon tax, there is an aim to implement it from 2019 and target industries and not consumers, in order to price -signal to incentivise industries to reduce emissions, and it will also help us to achieve our commitment to reduce emissions under the Paris Agreement, do so efficiently and at as low a cost to the economy as possible. So, a long runway and we can be cautious in how we move ahead, and we have the freedom of time to decide these things. Compare that with the situation of water. I think water, the Workers' Party's position is why is it so fast, why not take a little bit more time as you have done for carbon tax?”
“We need to continue to provide Singaporeans with opportunities, especially at an early stage of their lives. It is good that we start early with pre-school, providing affordable, accessible pre-school for children. This year, we are investing into increasing the infrastructure of our pre-school sector at an even earlier stage − infant care. This accommodates an increased demand for centre-based infant care. This helps ensure that Singaporeans, even at an early stage, are given a wholesome menu of opportunities allowing the potential for social mobility to commence early. The emphasis on opportunities should continue and be prioritised throughout a student's schooling life. Therefore, it is good that the Budget this year provides for an increase in Post-Secondary Education Institution bursaries. To provide a wide a range of learning opportunities throughout a child's schooling life, MOE could help ensure the fair distribution of very good teachers across all schools. Madam, the fourth and last topic I would like to talk about is the new grants for resale HDB flat purchases. This is an excellent move and one that is important to young couples who are planning to get married or wanting to start a family. For young couples commencing working life, a private property purchase can be very financially daunting. This new HDB resale grant provides young couples with the real possibility of owning a more affordable first property more quickly and quite possibly near their parents. This would mean that when the parents happily become grandparents, the precious and necessary support will be close by. So, there are many merits to these new resale grants.”
“This is why the Adapt and Grow Initiative, which has been enhanced to include Attach and Train, is key in the present economic climate. Under this enhancement, participants have "opportunities for work attachments to improve prospects of employment." This is a win-win situation − employees pick up valuable on-the-job skills while employers see the potential employees' strengths in action. To reduce the hindrances to reskilling, the focus will be on providing short, modular, e-learning opportunities to upskill and retrain. This increases the flexibility so that learning and upskilling becomes easier and more a part of life. Eventual consequence is more potential job openings for reskilled and resilient workers who seek to move from vulnerable industries to enterprises where the sun is rising. I move to my third and penultimate point, Madam, that of social mobility. Ensuring social mobility of Singaporeans is a precious ideal and a worthy aim − it is a constant work in progress. It is important for Singaporeans, and critical for a cohesive society, that all Singaporeans are presented with a wide menu of opportunities to excel. When in the constituency, I am so happy when I meet residents who decide to purchase a 2- or 3-room HDB flat instead of continuing to rent their flats at subsidised rentals from HDB. That is a classic example of social mobility − from non-ownership to home ownership. It is a considerably larger financial commitment but it is always good to see that with a steady income, CPF contributions and a HDB loan, residents decide to own their first major asset − a home. This is the Singapore way and we must preserve it, nurture it. Education plays an important role in catalysing and fuelling social mobility.”
“It is important that we maintain a strong defence budget, and I am heartened that we are doing so. We should maintain this even if we enter lean economic times. Madam, my second topic is on employment. It is necessary to support workers to transition from one type of career to an altogether different type of job scope on account of changing growth sectors in the economy. The employment market has changed significantly. Lucrative industries in the past no longer pay as much today. For instance, the oil, gas and marine industries in Singapore went through − and continue to go through − a very competitively tough environment. In fact, Keppel, one of the largest oil-rig builders in the world, cut its yard capacity − two overseas and three in Singapore. It had also cut 10,600 jobs from its Offshore and Marine division last year. When industries slow down, ripple effects are felt across the economy, including the finance and banking sector. I have met with residents in the constituency I serve, who have, unfortunately, lost good paying jobs in the marine industry. Freelance or temporary contract work becomes options for them. Unfortunately, as a result, they face a large pay reduction and no CPF employer's contribution. It is a tough position to be in. Therefore, the drive to assist these workers − from presently vulnerable industries, such as oil, gas and marine − to reskill and get employed in permanent jobs is key. This will allow the laid-off worker to chart his employment path in a more permanent second career instead of relying on temporary contract jobs to make ends meet. This allows the worker to plan longer term − in terms of the housing, educational and fiscal needs of his family.”
“A key highlight last year was the signing of an enhanced deal with Australia for a piece of land to train 14,000 personnel for 18 weeks per year. Not only does this stand as testament to Singapore and Australia's close defence ties, but it also allows Singapore to have yet another terrain to train in. We must regard the defence of Singapore as a priority. This means allocating a strong and healthy fiscal budget for defence. The recent growing tide of nationalism around the world provides a clear signal that Singapore and the Government must continue investing in the protection of our sovereignty. Therefore, in Parliament, we should continue to press for and secure a strong defence budget. In Europe, there has been a rise in nationalism and anti-globalism. In France, Ms Marine Le Pen's nationalistic party is gaining popularity. In Germany, the Alternative for Germany party has increased in popularity in recent times and is reported to have attracted voters who are "anti-establishment, anti-liberalisation, anti-European, anti-everything that has come to be regarded as the norm". This is not an isolated movement, but one that has pockets of trends around the globe. Growing tides of nationalism across the globe must prompt Singapore to muscle up its defence capabilities to ensure our sovereignty. In Singapore, there have been plans to enhance Lim Chu Kang for military training purposes. The plans for the new urban training facility include featuring high-rise buildings, complex road networks, an MRT station and a bus interchange. Simulation technology is also increasingly used in training. With such political climates around the world, such initiatives are timely and necessary.”
“Mdm Speaker, thank you for allowing me to join in the debate. Today, I would like to touch on four topics. First, the need to maintain a strong defence budget in light of the growing tide of nationalism in countries around the world. Second, the need to support workers to transition from one type of career to an altogether different type of job scope on account of changing growth sectors in the economy. Next, the need to continue progressing on the path of social mobility and providing Singaporeans with opportunities and, finally, to accord strong support for the increased grants on resale HDB flats as they will provide young couples with the real possibility of owning a more affordable first property more quickly. First, defence. It is heartening that, despite the challenging economic outlook, we are maintaining a strong defence budget. Just a few weeks ago, Singapore was remembering the 75th Anniversary of the fall of Singapore into the hands of the Japanese. The pain that the Japanese Occupation brought to many is still fresh in the memories of our pioneer Singaporeans. Since the birth of Singapore as a sovereign nation, spending on defence has always been one of our top priorities. Defence planning continues to be important as the very existence of Singapore's sovereignty as a nation depends on it. Thus far, Singapore has enjoyed exceptional defence relations with many countries. For instance, Singapore's forces have been able to train overseas in countries, such as Brunei, France, United States, India, South Africa, Indonesia, Canada, Australia, Germany and in other skies and fields. This allows Singapore's forces to test their mettle and manoeuvres in a wider area − something that is difficult with Singapore's space constraints.”
“For example, clause 17 empowers the Chief Licensing Officer to issue directions to act in a certain fashion or refrain from doing something with immediate effect if there are circumstances that may endanger the safety, well-being and welfare of children or other individuals at the early childhood development centre. Another key aspect of this Bill which I support is to ensure the reliability and continuity of the care centre. It is imperative that parents are not stuck in stressful limbo when a centre closes. Therefore, the initiative under this new law to mandate that assistance be provided to parents for alternative care placements and education arrangements, when a centre closes, is key. It is for this reason that clause 18(4)(g) is to be supported. In conclusion, this Bill is a timely move that advances the quality of care and education in the early childhood years.”
“This trend is projected to increase in the next few years, especially since increasing centre-based infant care featured in the Budget Statement last week. These changes necessitate an enhanced regulatory framework to ensure continued excellence in a growing and important service sector. This Bill seeks to maintain and advance the quality of care and education by preschool centres through various angles, with the child's well-being as a priority. For example, clause 6 of this Bill introduces a licensing framework for both kinds of preschool centres. This furthers the accountability with regard to kindergartens, which were previously able to come under a one-off registration process. Another example is found in clause 10(3)(e), which may require licensees to undergo an audit. Further, clause 12 provides that a security deposit may be required and may be calibrated according to the licensee's track record and its likelihood to attract regulatory action proceedings. This adds another accountability mechanism, this time, a financial one. The Bill also deals with the leadership of the early childhood development centre. Under clause 8(3), it places importance on the key appointment holder's character and the fitness to operate in an application for a licence, while clause 19 ensures that this is continued by a possible disqualification of a key appointment holder. Besides safety, quality education is ensured at multiple stages and levels, including grant of licence under clause 10(3)(b), and the educators deployed and employed under clauses 23 and 30. This Bill also provides for measures to help protect the children's well-being.”
“Mdm Speaker, I stand in support of this Bill for it is much needed and timely. In order for parents to have the added possibility of the mother returning to the workforce, the quality of the care of their children is, understandably, extremely important. Hence, the enhanced regulatory framework to ensure excellence in care and education is crucial. Through an enhanced regulatory framework, this Bill seeks to ensure and advance the quality of care and education in the preschool sector. This is important as more young parents in Singapore look to preschool centres for care management. As preschool centres are geographically spread out across Singapore, centre-based care becomes more convenient and attractive to parents. Furthermore, as more women and seniors participate in the workforce, the need for quality preschool services has increased. There is a real need to increase the support for young parents who may prefer centre-based care over care given by domestic workers or nannies. This need to ensure quality is especially important as more parents require longer hours of care for even younger children. What I am referring to is the shift in enrolment numbers from kindergartens to childcare centres. Kindergartens are normally half-day, while childcare centres provide longer hours. Last year, it was noted that over the past three years, kindergarten enrolment dropped by about 6% and the number of kindergartens dropped from 500 to 480. On the other hand, childcare enrolment shot up by about 50%, from 76,000 to about 100,000. Furthermore, the demand for infant care for children under 18 months has increased. Since 2012, the number of infants enrolled in infant care has increased by 60%, now accounting for about 10% of the infants.”
“Would the Minister also confirm that we have reliable resources to meet any demand at cost-effective prices? The second amendment is to be found in clause 2 of this Bill. That clause seeks to broaden the grace period for the determination of novelty. This allows the inventor to disclose information without jeopardising his patent application. As a result, inventors may very well be able to attract investors or publish scientific papers without needing to wait for a patent. This gives innovation a safe space in which innovators can seek funding without compromising the protection of their inventions. It has been reported that the revised IP Hub Masterplan that caters to entrepreneurship and innovation will be released in April. This is to be welcomed. Keeping abreast with the shifts in our economy is important, especially the protection of IP. However, this cannot be done without a reliable regulatory framework in the form of IP laws. This Bill is one such law. It will further consolidate Singapore's position as an IP hub and, Mdm Speaker, I therefore support it.”
“Singapore is also the first Supplementary International Search Authority to carry out searches in Chinese. Furthermore, IPOS International has become recognised by the World Intellectual Property Organisation as an International Searching Authority and International Preliminary Examining Authority (ISA/IPEA). These important and foundational steps were key to the promotion of Singapore as a safe and predictable IP hub based on the rule of law. These steps have allowed us to enhance our IP regulatory framework even further. Hence, the amendments today that we debate. This Bill broadly seeks to: (a) ensure the high standard of Singapore's patents by the closure of the foreign route; and (b) broaden the grace period for the determination of novelty. Firstly, clause 3 of the Bill marks the closure of the foreign route. Under that foreign route, Singapore relies on the search and examination report of other countries and does a supplementary examination. This second, all foreign, route is based on the reliance on the final results of the search and examination report of a corresponding application, corresponding international application, or related national phase application. It works on the presumption that the reports are reliable and accurate. But to ensure the quality of patents, it is better, if not much better, if we conduct the substantive evaluation ourselves. Having said this, we should not underestimate the load. Instead, we should approach the task with a large amount of preparation. On this related issue, could the Minister kindly elaborate on what has been done to ensure that even with the closure of the foreign route, Singapore will continue to be an attractive place, and an attractive financial place, to file patents?”
“Mdm Speaker, innovation, entrepreneurship and new ideas are key ingredients in a vibrant economy. It is our duty to ensure the IP surrounding these are firmly protected on our shores. The law on patents is a key jigsaw piece in the protection of these intellectual rights. I, therefore, rise in support of this Bill. Singapore has come a long way in its IP laws. From our early years as a nation, Singapore has strengthened our laws, such that they support our changing economy. Information, innovation and proprietary rights are key aspects of our present and future economy. Therefore, the safe protection of IP is crucial. Patents are particularly important. They allow innovations to be protected, and I should declare here my interest as a litigator whose practice includes, in part, IP litigation. In terms of filing patents, Singapore has entered into important international treaties to establish and advance Singapore's status as an IP hub, such as the TRIPS Agreement, or the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights. Singapore's strong laws protect and promote innovation and have attracted parties from other countries to register with us. Since our early years, we have moved from re-registration of United Kingdom (UK) Patents to outsourcing the search and examination process to operationalising our very own office, IPOS International, to handle the search and examination process. The Patent Prosecution Highway allows fast and efficient search processes by collaboration with other countries, such as Japan, US, Australia, Germany, UK, Korea, China and Mexico. In fact, Singapore's search and examination reports may be delivered within 60 to 90 days.”
“Secondly, I would like to highlight the merits of clause 8, which retains parties' option to apply for a stay. The option not to stay an action while mediation is carried out is a valuable tool in litigation. With the clock ticking, the parties may have more incentive to settle in mediation. Let me explain this a little bit further. If a stay was made mandatory, then there would be little incentive to settle the matter promptly. With no timelines due, no affidavits to file, parties would not have the incentive to enter into mediation quickly. Thus, parallel proceedings, running in tandem with any scheduled mediation hearing, may actually prompt settlement. In closing, no emphasis on mediation should remove the parties' right to have their rights and duties adjudicated at the full trial. As I understand it, this Bill does not intend to remove a right to a full trial if a company or private citizen seeks it. As such, and for reasons I have explained, I support the Bill.”
“Through excellent teamwork, Singapore mediation power houses in the like of SIMC and SIMI uphold the standard of our mediation services. This is on top of the excellent SMC, CMC and Court-based State Court Centre for Dispute Resolution, among others. Today is, therefore, the time to make the next step, to buttress the current advantages that mediation lends to Singapore as a legal hub. Why? Because mediation is an excellent forum for parties to come together on a non-adversarial platform to understand and resolve the underlying issues that bear on the case. There are other advantages, too. For example, having a co-mediator which allows industry experts to weigh in on the matter or ensuring that communications are without prejudice, which disarms parties and promotes a conciliatory approach, or, and importantly, having control over the outcome. These and others culminate to facilitate a possible settlement agreement that is agreeable to all parties. Clause 12 of the Bill provides the welcome ability for a settlement agreement to have the potential to be enforced in the same manner as a Court order where parties agree. Currently, a settlement agreement is purely contractual, requiring further action to enforce the bite of the settlement agreement. To solve this problem, SIMC has resorted to the SIMC-SIAC arb-med-arb protocol. Without this amendment, a party has to go through the onerous steps of enforcing the agreement as a contractual claim or apply to Court for a consent order. This Bill remedies this deficiency and enhances the attractiveness of mediation as a choice alternative dispute resolution with finality and expediency where the parties decide to exercise this right.”
“Mdm Speaker, I rise in support of the Mediation Bill that is before us today. Born out of the recommendation by the Working Group for International Commercial Mediation, this Bill is a welcome move to advance the standing of mediation as a choice mode of alternative dispute resolution in Singapore. I declare my interest as an advocate. In practice, I have seen the fruits of mediation and experienced hearings before excellent mediators at the SMC and SIMC. This would not have been possible without the support and collaboration of MinLaw to promote Singapore as an international mediation centre. It is with much foresight that the Government and the Judiciary promoted mediation as a choice alternative dispute resolution mechanism. Mediation places a priority on the reconciliation of relationships and, from my experience, this is very useful. Even though the main litigation is hard-fought, when mediation is attempted in parallel, parties sometimes settle. When that happens, there is a win-win for all, companies and individuals alike. If the mediation does not yield a settlement, the suit continues and rights are adjudicated at trial. So, mediation offers no disadvantage. MinLaw lent valuable support to the mediation movement by forming the Community Mediation Unit within the Ministry and an Alternative Dispute Resolution resource panel. The panel sought to promote mediation in a wide variety of settings and comprised members of varied background. SMC was started in 1997 and plays an important role in Singapore's mediation landscape. In 2013, the mediation movement sought to further promote the mediation in international commercial disputes. The Working Group was thus set up. We have seen the fruits of the first two of the recommendations.”
“And here, I agree with my learned Page: 67 colleague Mr Zaqy Mohamed. There must be an important additional requirement that that Singaporean must be people-centred, community-centred and nation-centred. Essentially, in addition to running a $500 million company, a qualifying candidate should also have a record of public service. This could come in the form of holding a leadership position in a public charity or a similar community-centred institution. This is because being a custodian of the second key is just one among many other significant roles and duties the President holds which have, at their heart, people, their hopes and aspirations. Being community-centred is, therefore, a key characteristic and should be accorded that priority in any qualification criterion. Therefore, I ask whether this would be included in the deliberative track under the private sector path. In conclusion, Madam, just 57 days ago in this House, we paid tribute to a giant of a man, the late Mr SR Nathan. His attributes and, indeed his whole life bring into clear focus the importance and the reality of what we are debating today – the responsibilities, pressures, expectations of the office of the President. Indeed, the lives of Encik Yusof Ishak, Dr Benjamin Sheares, Mr Wee Kim Wee and Mr SR Nathan paint a rich tapestry of selfless service to Singapore and Singaporeans. I hope the qualification criteria are flexible enough in its current form to collect men or women of similar robust calibre. I support the Bill.”
“Today, let us not overly restrain ourselves to a qualification criterion that is not wide enough to draw a man or woman whom the body of Singaporeans or the Government believes is needed in years to come. It is for this reason that I ask for flexibility in the deliberative track. I turn now to the second or alternative criterion, that is, the private sector criterion. Clause 7(b) of the Bill amends Article 19 such that the candidate has to be the most senior executive of a company with $500 million shareholders' equity and who is principally responsible for the running of the company. We have heard the economic justifications for the change from $100 million paid-up capital to $500 million shareholders' equity in the form of several arguments. One, how the number of companies with $100 million paid-up capital has increased between then and now. Two, how shareholders' equity shows whether a company is a going concern rather than a historic figure which may be all lost. And three, how the candidate has to be hands-on, actually involved in the running of the company, rather than just the big picture. Purely, economically and statistically, this may make sense. But I would like to go further than that. I would like to ask what is required of a President of Singapore. Does a senior executive of a company with $500 million shareholders' equity lead to the automatic conclusion that that person is cut out for the Presidency? Let me put my point into perspective. Is it tough to run a $500 million company? Yes. Does one need to have financial proficiency and leadership ability? Yes, especially to hold the company together. These are useful attributes for the office of the President, but it cannot be all about commerce.”
“When it comes to understanding what would be comparable contributions for the deliberative track, the National Day Awards provides guidance in its rich tapestry of precedents, presenting criteria of what the State recognises as significant contributions. As one example, and just as one example, the description of the Distinguished Service Order, the Darjah Utama Bakti Cemerlang, states, "The Order may be awarded to any person who has performed within Singapore any act or series of acts constituting distinguished conduct." What I am asking for is that the deliberative track through clause 7(b) recognises distinguished conduct for and on behalf of the state. This reasoning finds support in the deliberations of the Commission itself, who formed the view that it was not prudent to fetter the PEC's discretion by setting out an exhaustive list of factors that the PEC should consider, save one pertaining to performance, but that the PEC should take a holistic view of the applicant's experience and expertise, and assess whether he is likely to be qualified to hold the office of President. What I am proposing is comparability in contributing to the lives of people or contributions to the lives of people. Yes, at this point in time of Singapore's history, we need to ensure that Presidential candidates have the competency to make decisions on the second key. But we cannot be overly focused on the second key. Needing to tap into our Reserves is only one aspect of the difficulties that Singapore may face. It is just as important for Singapore's future and survival that our Head of State reflects the ability, dexterity, diligence and resilience of Singaporeans to the rest of the world.”
“The role of the Head of State to help navigate the tensions to stay relevant to both sides and to show to other nations that neutral Singapore is in their interest may, in fact, be more important a role than the custodian of the second key, or at least of equal importance. So, we need to accommodate for flexibility in the deliberative track. In my view, the deliberative track should be broad enough to include the first four Presidents who, in my opinion, contributed immensely to Singapore before they were appointed. Encik Yusof Ishak, a Malay; Dr Benjamin Henry Sheares, a Eurasian; Mr Devan Nair, an Indian; and Mr Wee Kim Wee, a Chinese. What were their attributes? Encik Yusof Ishak deeply believed in and was deeply committed to multiracialism. Dr Benjamin Sheares, an exceptional medical professional, inspired many Singaporeans, including people from the Eurasian community, to excel and to show that minority groups do have a role and future in our country, Singapore. Mr Devan Nair devoted his life to the unions. Mr Wee Kim Wee was a man, who through sheer hard work, became successful in journalism, contributed much in the diplomatic corps. Yet, where would these men fit in the current criteria? They neither ran $500 Page: 66 million companies or equivalents then, nor did they occupy an office that would immediately qualify them even to stand for elections. So, I request the Government to explain how the deliberative tracks under clause 7(b) of the Bill will be flexible enough to include men like Mr Wee Kim Wee, Mr Devan Nair, Dr Benjamin Sheares and Encik Yusof Ishak.”
“Madam, Singapore is a young country. It is rightfully expected that Parliament continues to work hard to get the foundations of our democracy right, the foundations of a functioning democracy right. While it is good for us to look around the world for best practices, it is also extremely important that, ultimately, we do what is good for Singapore. Our democracy needs to be a functioning democracy, so as to work effectively and efficiently in Singapore's environment. Let me start with the Elected Presidency. As we are debating the highest office of the land, it is important to have strict criteria to ensure that candidates have the ability to carry the heavy responsibility, not just domestically, but out there in the world. In this regard, it is right that the Constitutional Commission was set up to think long and hard and independently on how to construct the qualification criteria. Yes, it is important that we have criteria to help ensure presidential candidates are able to discharge responsibilities with dignity and distinction. But, Madam, it is also especially important that the deliberative track defined under paragraph (c) of clause 3 and (b) of clause 4 of Article 19 as amended by clause 7(b) of the Bill allows for a deep collection of candidates. In 15, 20 years' time, it would not be too difficult to envision a situation in which Singapore may not need to use its past Reserves but, nonetheless, is facing a crisis of another sort, which may require a Head of State to augment the Prime Minister and the Minister for Foreign Affairs' efforts to make Singapore relevant to the world. It is not easy to walk the tight rope between US-China relations today. It may get even tougher in years to come. In fact, it may even get tougher tomorrow.”
“I thank the Minister for his comprehensive reply. My question really has to do with the structural integrity of high-rise protrusions. In the cyclical review, would there be a prioritisation for high-rise protrusions, for example, like balcony ledges and their structural integrity?”
“I had to convince myself, talk to myself and remind myself that I had done a lot of hard work. It is not just my work, I have a big team behind me and if I had a list of people to thank, I would not be able to finish it. It is truly amazing". I conclude, Madam, with firm support for the Motion standing in the name of Minister Grace Fu. From the Rio 2016 Paralympics Team, we have not one but two medallists, not two but three medals, an Olympic record and two World records. But we are not only celebrating those achievements. What we are also celebrating are the sporting values of participation; perseverance through adversity; and the personal integrity to better one self for a greater cause. To all the Paralympians, you and the sturdy will you possess are miracles personified. Thank you for showing Singaporeans what is possible. We are very proud of you. [Applause.]”
“Some of the children found it difficult to run. For some, it was not easy to hold a stick, yet they played their hearts out, learnt from one another, improved their skills and celebrated whenever a teammate scored because it meant Chaoyang School was doing well. That group of young Singaporean students reflected the very spirit our Paralympians displayed on the world stage at Rio 2016: the value of participation, the value of outdoing one's own limits and the value of doing so for a cause greater than oneself. There is much we can learn from that, especially in education, especially in our schools where achievements should be celebrated when the child has done that child's best. In fact, double-gold medallist Yip Pin Xiu shared how doing one's best and pushing beyond their limits is key and should be celebrated. Before Rio 2016, Pin Xiu shared, "I decided that I should really excel as much as possible when my body still allows me, by pushing myself to the limits for Singapore". How inspirational. You were already victorious at your start line. After Rio 2016, you shared your reflections with Singaporeans, "We athletes have doubts sometimes. We don't know if today is a good day for our bodies. It was really just a lot of mental strength to go at my fastest ever, and to compete against myself and my previous times". Rejoicing in accomplishments already achieved, yet not quite satisfied, and so, wanting to push for a cause beyond oneself. Thank you, Pin Xiu, for showing us that iron-willed determination. Theresa Goh, bronze medallist, also from the pool, described how she felt in Rio. She said, "I had a lot of moments where I thought of giving up. But it took a lot of mental skills and encouragement from people telling me that I could do it and to be positive.”
“Madam, just to get to the start line at Rio 2016, our Paralympians overcame immense demands of physical training – weights in the gym, cardiovascular priming on the track or in the pool, honing skills drill after drill, set-piece after set-piece. They must have also persevered through muscle fatigue, injuries as they built up physical and mental stamina among the team. All these in preparation for the ultimate sporting experience that the Paralympic Games gives. It was already a victory that our Paralympians got to their start lines. Why? Because each Paralympian converted adversity into a will to excel and, in so doing, made Singaporeans very proud. Your sturdy will in Archery, Athletics, Boccia, Equestrian, Sailing, Swimming is what we are celebrating today. What you did out there at the Paralympic Games also spoke of the value of participation and training hard to better one's own personal best. Yes, you had excelled to get to the start line. Yes, you were already joyful in achieving that. Yet, not quite satisfied, you pushed yourself further and further to improve. That extra push was, in and of itself, remarkable, perhaps arising from a divine discontent. Yet, you the Paralympians displayed the personal integrity imbedded in the very meaning of sportsmanship: to strive to outdo one's own limits for a cause greater than oneself. I learnt that meaning of sportsmanship from Chaoyang School students about 20 years ago. The school, which provides education for children with special needs, required assistance with its sports programmes. I was playing Hockey at the time and the school asked if I could help coach its Hockey team made up of young students between eight and 12 years old. That team was preparing for its own tournament amongst special needs students.”
“I am grateful, Mdm Speaker. I thank the Minister for the response. In my view, there is actually a basis for comparison. The Bill was debated in October 2014; it came into force in February 2015; it is now October 2016. That would mean 20 months of a total ban. So, there is a comparison. My question is: how many were gambling online illegally during that 20-month total ban period? My suggestion is to compare that figure with the numbers after the exemptions. That is a possible test, in my humble view. My questions are: if the online gambling cases go up, would the Minister consider removing the exemptions and implement a complete ban?”
“Mdm Speaker, I thank the Minister for the response. May I ask two questions? First, if, after the EOs start their trade, the number of Singaporeans moving into online gambling increases, will the Government review its decision regarding the two exemptions? Secondly, if the number of online gambling addiction cases increases as a result of the exemptions, will the Government reconsider the exemptions?”
“Madam, I would like to ask Minister Masagos: can fogging be done at more areas? Also how effective is fogging and are there any side effects to fogging?”
“Mrs Nathan was always there for him. That was the purpose of the visit – to thank him. Mr Nathan then spoke to me about Singapore, full of passion and rigour. He was already 87 then but was ever the mentor. Mr Nathan had a handwritten note delivered to me the next day. My wife and I shall continue to cherish that note very much. Last month, I visited Mr Nathan in hospital. This time, it was my turn to encourage and to pray. The handshake, the deep internal reservoir, the tough decisions, the pointed messages, his warmth. I close, Madam, by returning to the standard bearer on the battlefield. If the soldier flying the colours is wounded or dies, the man closest to him flies the flag, refusing to allow it to touch the ground. Who is that man closest to that standard bearer? That man is all of us. All Singaporeans and our children. Count on us, Sir.”
“Mr Nathan possessed broad shoulders, and the deep internal reservoir needed to make tough macro decisions, but he also had a personal generous heart that endeared many racial communities, majority and minority, to him and to what he stood for. The Singaporean-Eurasian community felt part of his plot. We never felt small with him. He was completely at ease in a Eurasian setting. He visited and engaged the community often at the Eurasian Community House and loved Eurasian food, especially our almond sugee cake for dessert. It was a historical camaraderie. Many Eurasians served alongside him in the civil service and in the security services, especially in the early years of Independence, but he was also focused on the future of the community, especially in ensuring Eurasian school-going children were doing well. At one meeting, Mr Nathan told the community, "Please ensure that no Eurasian child is deprived of a proper education". He went on to say, "if there was a finance issue, inform me and I will help to source funds". Indeed, he did. He learnt of a family who needed help beyond what the Eurasian Association was already providing – a mother, widowed, the sole breadwinner, with three children. Mr Nathan asked if he could personally help the family. He paid towards the first child's university fees for three years and asked to donate in advance for the second sibling who was just completing National Service. The family was deeply touched. What a man to have as our Head of State. After he stepped down as President in 2011, I asked to visit Mr and Mrs Nathan in their home at Ceylon Road. I brought a basket of fruits and a card. The card was for both Mr and Mrs Nathan to thank them for their example, commitment and their unfailing sense of service.”
“I studied his Addresses, five in total – one before the turn of the century and four after. Those speeches were key landmarks on the trajectories of governmental policy as we moved into the 21st century and through to 2011. True to his own beliefs, the Addresses always harked back to the need for policy to positively impact the Singaporean, his family and the opportunities. In fact, Mr Nathan stated in his 1999 Address to this House, "People will be the major focus of my Government's policy for our citizens to develop their full potential". He then addressed the idea of differing views, exhorted us to debate, but, and here I quote, "always with a view to determining what is best for Singapore". Those Presidential Addresses were important. But also of significance was the debate we had in this House in 2009 to draw $4.9 billion from past Reserves to help fund the Resilience Package to preserve jobs and businesses during the massive Financial Crisis. The ballast of the man, as well as the moral authority of his Office, were significant in giving me the assurance that Mr Nathan would not turn the second key unless he was convinced of the merits of the Resilience Package. Both keys must suffer the scrutiny of an Election or a potential Election. That gives mandate moral authority. In the end, that mechanism turned in Singapore's favour. Mr Nathan was right in his analysis. Singapore got out of the rut sooner than expected. In fact, in his 2009 Address to Parliament, Mr Nathan stated: "We could take decisive measures to help companies and workers to save jobs, we did not have to borrow. Having steadily built up Reserves, we could draw on them and, with my approval, fund the Jobs Credit scheme and Special Risk-Sharing Initiative".”
“" Although the political delegation was not Mr Nathan's target audience, his message was nonetheless relevant to us. The point he was making was this: on national duties, you better give it your best. Nothing less is sufficient. That is what standard bearers do. They maintain standards for a cause. Mr Nathan's cause was Singapore. In a military battle, a standard bearer is a soldier who bears the colours, the flag of the formation or the army. For as long as that flag flies, it means that there is a man carrying it and the whole force deploys itself toward a common goal – victory. In so doing, the force of soldiers musters all its capability to live up to the highest standards it has come to require of itself. Nothing short of its best. The force that Singapore is, and her Singaporeans, require high standards of ourselves, because we have had a band of standard bearers who soldiered ahead of us, leading by example. In that band were men like Mr Lee Kuan Yew, Dr Goh Keng Swee and Mr Hon Sui Sen. In my view, Mr SR Nathan is part of that original band of men. These men set the standards early. What then is our role as Members in this House, as Singaporeans in our workplaces or as Singaporeans in our homes or abroad? It is to maintain these standards and improve them. Then, these standards become living standards, not set in stone or in history, but standards that are alive and shapeable. Madam, like many Members of this House, I had the privilege of listening to President Nathan's Addresses at the Opening of a new Parliament or after it had been prorogued. Some longer-serving Members would have heard Mr Nathan speak in this House more times than I have. For Mr Nathan served in office for a term longer than any other President.”
“Madam, when Mr SR Nathan shook your hand, you felt his warmth. When shaking your hand, he would often also place his other hand, his left hand on your wrist. It was a warm handshake. When there was a person who joined the group, Mr Nathan would use his left hand to reach out to that person and hold his hand. He would engage two people, holding their hands. He used every fibre in his body to connect with you, and you felt it. He would recall shared memories so as to bring you further into his fold, further into his conversation. You felt cared for. I did. But it was not only warm, fuzzy feelings with Mr Nathan. He made sure you got his point, especially so when he thought standards needed to be improved. In that area, Mr Nathan was a standard bearer. I remember on a State Visit to Istanbul in 2009, Mr Nathan called for a meeting at the end of the trip. We thought it would be an internal debrief with the political delegation accompanying him. It was not. He called for the whole delegation to be present and asked for the representatives from the private sector and the Statutory Boards to be present. I remember the scene vividly. It was in a small conference room at the hotel we were staying in which overlooked the calm Bosphorus Strait. But Mr Nathan's message was far from calm or serene. He asked why some representatives from the Statutory Boards and companies left the trip early before it ended. He got straight to the issue. I remember him saying, "You may think the socials are not important, but they are important. Staying back discussing and engaging with your hosts are how we make Singapore relevant. I have come here to do that. Send this message back to those who left the trip early.”
“The point I am making here is that we would never be able to predict what this last straw is and when it will be placed on the camel's back. The answer to this question would most probably differ even among a small group of well-meaning commentators. Just as "little strokes fell great oaks", let us not allow cumulative small risks to cause the public's confidence in our Courts to fall. I conclude by going back to my point on the contempt of scandalising the Court. What do we really want? An institution upheld for the stature it holds or a blanket licence for people to denigrate it? Do we want to cultivate an ecosystem which allows risks but not real risks to scandalise the judiciary? What if one day those risks add up and cause a freefall of the Court's reputation in the eyes of Singaporeans? What then? Turn back the clock? It would be an arduous task. We are today preserving the repute of the Judiciary and I support the Bill.”
“And at this stage, I declare my interest as a practising advocate in Singapore at the Singapore Bar. In a dynamic Court room setting, Madam, time is of the essence, cases do go on. This Bill gives effective tools to preserve the repute of our Courts. Do we want to be distracted by every current question, such as real risk or risk, especially when time is of the essence? I think the answer is plainly obvious. I started my legal career as a judicial officer working with exceptionally capable and committed judges of the High Court and State Courts. At a young age, it was impressed on us by exemplary senior judges, like Justice Chao Hick Tin, Judge of Appeal, that our decisions had to be well thought through, fair, impartial, thorough and even in language. Justice Chao still possesses these traits and still sits on the Court of Appeal. Yes, we can afford protection to the courts. We have to, in order to preserve the rule of law and the good standing of the Singapore Judiciary. This protection should be reciprocated by the Courts in the form of impartial and well-considered judgments of even language. For this, role models, such as Justice Chao, Judge of Appeal, are key. Back to contempt of Court. You see, a little doubt can go a long way to cause irreparable damage. Hypothetically, there may be a situation in which the risk of that publication is bordering on, what may be called a small risk. But this insidious publication is part of a host of other publications released at almost a daily rate. What if that happens? The cumulative effect may lead to the last straw on the camel's back that shakes the public's confidence in our judicial system. Would we want such a situation in which the intention of this Bill cannot be borne to fruition?”
“Should that not be sufficient? That we do not want an untruthful allegation or a scandalous misrepresentation to be made against the Court, such as to risk the ill-repute of the institution, is the intent of this law. And as I have said above, we are starting from high ground; the Courts are already well-regarded as impartial adjudicators of rights. All we seek to do is to preserve this. And even though we are preserving and protecting the repute of the institution, an individual can still offer fair criticism of judgments. Furthermore, criminal statutes, generally, do not have qualifiers, such as "real". In the Penal Code, the offences that criminalise negligent or rash acts that endanger lives and safety do not say, there must be "real negligence" or "real rashness" or even "really endangering". Instead, the statutes read like this: "Whoever does any act so rashly or negligently as to endanger human life or the personal safety of others, shall be punished…" under section 336, Penal Code, Chapter 224. And another quote, "Whoever causes the death of any person by doing any rash or negligent act amounting to culpable homicide, shall be punished" under section 304A, Penal Code, Chapter 224. The statutes are clear in this way, without qualifiers, such as "real". We need to ensure that we can act fast if there is a risk. That should be the only pertinent question. If there is no risk, then there would be no danger of lowering public confidence in our Judiciary. But if there is a risk, then do we want arguments on whether it is a real risk or a risk to hinder effective action under the statute? After all, cases still have to proceed when untruthful statements are swirling around. Cases do not halt just because it receives fair or unfair attention.”
“This is why I stand, Mdm Speaker, in support of the Bill. A strong Judiciary, through which justice is not just done but also seen to be done, is of central importance for Singapore to reach SG 100. With that set out, let me now drill down into certain elements of the Bill which, in my view, are justifiable. The Bill sets out what would amount to "scandalising the Court". These are such comments that can erode the public's confidence in the judicial system, if not checked. It is a form of contempt of Court. When faced with scandalous allegations, it is difficult for judges to rebut them. Some have commented that the inability to scandalise the Judiciary infringes freedom of speech. Really? Does it really? The law of contempt does not disallow criticisms of judgments. Fair criticism is allowed. What the Bill seeks to protect is the public's confidence in the administration of justice by disallowing allegations that the judge is privately motivated or partial. But, if you have something fair to say in criticism of the judgment, you can. Furthermore, if you think the judgment is wrong, an appeal can be filed if the client decides to. I studied the Petition. It seems to suggest that the test for when an allegation scandalises the Court should be that there is a "real risk" that the allegation or assertion scandalises the Court rather than a risk that the allegation or assertion scandalises the Court. While this argument may be well-meaning, I am afraid I am unable to agree with it. What is the difference between a risk and a real risk? I read and reread paragraph 10 of the Petition. It seems that the formula proposed is to insert real before risk. Let me drill down on this. A risk, by itself, already means that there is a possibility that the Courts will be scandalised.”
“International and Singapore investors have the assurance that their contractual rights will be recognised and adjudicated upon by an impartial, incorruptible set of Courts in Singapore, which is largely viewed as competent. The rule of law in Singapore is alive and vital for stability. But let us drill down on what this actually means. It means that the Singapore Court must be given the space and intellectual autonomy to apply Parliament's intentions which reflect the collective will of the people in the cases that are heard before it. Therefore, the Court's reputation and how it is perceived by members of the public are critical. Why? Because if untruths are allowed to flourish, which run the risk of impugning the reputation of an Organ of State, such as the Judiciary, this will jeopardise the ability of the Courts to act as effective adjudicators of rights, whether to private citizens or bodies corporate. So, let us face it. Our Judiciary plays a key role in the stability that Singapore enjoys. Do we want to preserve that by putting in measures to protect the institution, which is the intention of this Bill, or do we want to weaken that by allowing statements that risk the Judiciary's ability to dispense and be seen to dispense with justice? That is the hard junction that we are at. What we decide today will impact this stability we hold dear. Let us face one more fact. What this Bill seeks to do, from a macro point, is to introduce legal mechanisms to preserve the already excellent reputation of the Singapore Courts. Where is my authority on this point? In a survey conducted at the end of last year, 92% of Singaporeans have trust and confidence in our legal system, and 96% of Singaporeans agree that Singapore is governed by the rule of law.”
“Madam, I rise in support of the Bill. Over the past week, we celebrated Singapore's 51st birthday and the Olympic accomplishments of our athletes, including that of Joseph Isaac Schooling. We have been blessed with relative peace in our country. But we cannot be complacent. During the State Visit to Washington DC, many people shared with me that current affairs, globally, show that the world is becoming increasingly uncertain and the course of events even more unpredictable. This is not confined to a particular country but is the general tenor of many regions around the world. Almost on a daily basis, we are engulfed by news of shootings, bombings, terrorist attacks and political unrest. Against such a capricious backdrop, how can Singapore retain its unicorn-like uniqueness? How can we maintain this crucial stability as a nation? How? We must deploy and use a workable formula. And part of this formula includes strong institutions. Our state institutions, also known as Organs of State, are respectable and respected. One such institution is our Judiciary. The acclaim of our Judiciary within the region, and, if I dare say, its increasing respect in the world, has allowed for the setting up of the SICC. Another natural consequence of the strong rule of law is the growing stature of the SIAC. These are classic examples of the consequence of the strong rule of law. A direct result of such international recognition of our Courts and the application and development of Singapore law through our Courts have encouraged economic investments in Singapore. Let us face it.”
“What you said at your press conference is completely true – that people from small countries can do extraordinary things. When I was 15 years old, I played one of the toughest hockey matches of my life. The team gave it our all. At the end of it, I remember our coach shouting from the sidelines, "Well done, sons! Lift your heads up high!" Joseph, well done, son, you have lifted our heads up high! [Applause.]”
“Madam, 2,000 residents gathered on 13 August 2016 to watch the replay of Joseph Isaac Schooling's incredible feat. It was our constituency's National Day dinner and many of the residents had already watched the 100-metre butterfly Olympic final earlier. But when we saw you again, Joseph, on the starting block, the crowd roared. Singaporeans of all races – Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian – were spurring you on in your race, your 100-metre butterfly Olympic final. We watched you fly down Lane 4, Singapore's flag on your swimming cap and all of us roared until you touched the wall. It is an honour to have you here today in Parliament House with your parents, Mr and Mrs Schooling. An Olympic gold, an Olympic record – how marvellous! But it was also how you embraced your victory that has moved many people, many Singaporeans. You spoke highly of Michael Phelps and shared that to race for others greater than yourself is deeply motivating. What humility and courage! Like several Members of this House, I played hockey competitively. For some time, I played for Singapore. Before every match, the team understood what it meant to have the Singapore flag over our heart on our jerseys. We would try to overcome the butterflies in our stomach before going on the pitch. Once on the pitch, our single focus was the scoreboard, always looking to ensure Singapore was up, trying our best. As I watched you "live" on your starting block, I thought to myself how completely composed you looked, how you were getting rid of those butterflies, how you had laser-like focus. Then you leapt, engulfed with only your thoughts in the silence of the water, knowing what it means to carry that Singapore flag in your heart. And you flew and you nailed it.”
“Chairman, before I withdraw it, I would like to thank the officers of MinLaw for their quiet and instrumental efforts to help ensure the smooth and efficient running of our economy. This includes the protection of the status of the rule of law and its high standing in Singapore, which I know, as an advocate in practice, of which I declare my interest. The Ministers and their officers cover major initiatives, such as the setting up of SICC, SIAC, SIMC to create Singapore as a major legal hub. These are major initiatives. Access to justice, pro Page: 101 bono at the community level are also under their purview. Before seeking leave to withdraw my amendment, I would request and encourage MinLaw to promote Singapore law as the choice of law for disputes, given Singapore laws' growing jurisprudential depth and geographic reach. With that, I speak on behalf of the House by thanking the MinLaw officers and I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. [(proc text) Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. (proc text)] [(proc text) The sum of $218,076,400 for Head R ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. (proc text)] [(proc text) The sum of $384,379,000 for Head R ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. (proc text)] Page: 102”
“I would like to ask the Minister for Law; what feedback had been collated from the public consultations that were conducted on the Registered Design Act (RDA) and, moving forward, what plans does the Ministry have to operationalise these changes? Strengthening Singapore Law Practices”
“Grateful, Mr Chairman. In recent years, as a consequence of globalisation and the growing interconnectedness between countries, we are seeing a shift towards crime becoming increasingly cross-border in nature. Crimes are no longer bound by jurisdictional boundaries and are now being perpetrated by individuals or syndicates over the Page: 89 Internet or through other electronic means. Therefore, given the increasingly complex nature of cross-border crimes and the need for prompt and accurate justice delivered to the accused person, what further initiatives and reforms does MinLaw envision for the criminal justice system in Singapore? Further, there is also the need for a review of our civil justice system, to ensure the continued relevance of Singapore law and our Courts at an international level. The introduction of the Choice of Court Agreements Bill this past week is one such example. The introduction of this Bill could pave the way for Singapore to ratify the Hague Convention on the Choice of Court Agreements, which it signed on 25 March 2015. Therefore, as Singapore law continues to grow in jurisprudential depth and geographical reach, how will the Ministry ensure that it is kept relevant to – and at the centre of – any intended reforms to the civil justice system? Singapore's Design and Intellectual Property Regime The protection of registered designs, like other types of Intellectual Property (IP), aims to encourage innovation and creativity by granting rights owners the exclusive use of their designs for a limited period, in exchange for disclosing and releasing it for public use at the end of the prescribed period.”
“The establishment of Singapore's third law school is an important milestone in the expansion of our legal sector and will ensure that we will be able to further augment our market for legal services. However, there is some concern that the uncertain global economic outlook might dampen growth of our legal sector and would reduce the opportunities available to Singaporean lawyers and law firms to expand further, especially in the region. Therefore, in light of this, what steps is MinLaw considering to ensure the continued growth and development of the Singapore legal sector in general, especially against the backdrop of a slowing economic growth in Singapore and the region? And very importantly, arising from all of these changes – academic, judicial, policy – how will MinLaw help to ensure that Singapore law stays relevant as the law of choice for disputes, especially in the Singapore Courts or in SIAC, given that Singapore law is growing in jurisprudential depth and quality? [(proc text) Question proposed. (proc text)]”
“Sir, I beg to move, "That the total sum to be allocated for Head R of the Estimates be reduced by $100". In the past year, there have been significant developments in Singapore's legal landscape. This has been made possible by the Ministry of Law (MinLaw), which has made it a priority to ensure that we have kept up with international developments and have actively sought new opportunities for the growth of our legal sector. For example, with the launch of the Singapore International Mediation Centre (SIMC) and the Singapore International Commercial Court (SICC) in 2015 and the continued development of the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC), Singapore is now truly able to provide a full suite, a full menu, of dispute resolution options for the amicable resolution of international commercial disputes or to resolve them adversarially. 6.00 pm A more recent example is the introduction of the Choice of Court Agreements Bill in Parliament this past week, which will further enhance the attractiveness of the Singapore Courts and the SICC as a venue for the resolution of international commercial transactions. With the establishment of these new platforms and further enhancements in the pipeline, Singapore will be well-placed to reinforce our "Singapore" legal brand as a global force in the legal and dispute resolution market, especially now that we are able to provide the full spectrum of dispute resolution options. Furthermore, the UniSIM School of Law will be matriculating its first batch of students in the coming year, with classes scheduled to start in January 2017.”
“Mr Chairman, thank you. Before I do so, I would like to place on record that the Home Team is, indeed, really frontline – roads, police coast guard, airport, ambulance and SCDF, ISD. They provide us with an umbrella of protection, together with MINDEF. And, often, we focus on a calamity. But every day a calamity is avoided is a day of battle won. Unglamorous because it is a non-event, but hugely important to all of us as Singaporeans. Before withdrawing this amendment, I say that, also, similarly, Singaporeans need to carry this umbrella together with the Home Team and, should an attack happen in Singapore, respond hand-in-hand with the Home Team to overcome adversity. With that, I record the House's thanks to the diligent work of the Home Team, its officers, and I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. [Applause.] [(proc text) Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. (proc text)] [(proc text) The sum of $4,761,212,100 for Head P ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. (proc text)] [(proc text) The sum of $575,000,000 for Head P ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. (proc text)] Page: 88”
“Thank you. So, I ask, what more can be done during the time the addicts are incarcerated for all of these consequential benefits that could be gleaned?”
“Mr Chairman, my clarification is really on the continuing war on drugs and, in particular, DRC. The four rationales for sentencing: incarceration − and that is what we do in DRC − we incarcerate the inmates, take them out of the cycle of abuse of drugs where they will not be abusing drugs. There is the rationale of deterrence: putting them in incarcerated premises to deter them and to deter society from doing something similar like abuse, and there is rehabilitation, in order to rehabilitate the addicts so that the recidivism rate goes down. I think these three have to be looked at in tandem and worked at in tandem. Therefore, I appreciate the answers given by the Minister and office bearers. But my question was actually quite specific. What more can we do while the addicts are in DRC − which is called the Drug Rehabilitative Centre for a reason − what more can we do when the addicts are there, to really attempt to rehabilitate them? We have got them in there for four months, six months. It is a fertile opportunity for them to help them kick the habit, provided they want to kick the habit. And my suggestions are counselling, concerted counselling, concerted psychological intervention, vocational training, exercise, so that their memory of the pleasure zones of drugs which they may hark back to is usurped by this new territory of good and wholesome activities. And also, post-release, what can we do to work with the families and work with their support regimes to, again, distract these former addicts from relapsing, and there is much to be gleaned from this – a lower recidivism rate, which means lower demands for these drugs?”
“In January 2016, the Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) announced that a new Cyber Security Bill would be introduced to enhance the powers of the Cyber Security Agency. Could the Minister provide an update on when this Bill will be introduced, and what measures will be included in the Bill to address the growing threat of cybercrimes and cyberattacks in Singapore? Lastly, due to the nature of cybercrime, there has also been a shift towards crime becoming increasingly cross-border in nature. To address this, there is a need for the Government to work closely with international organisations like INTERPOL and other ASEAN members to effectively detect and deal with transnational cybercrimes in the region. These partnerships will provide our Home Team with the capabilities to deal with cross-border crimes more effectively. Ultimately, we must ensure that the Home Team has the resources, wherewithal, capabilities and drive to deal with cybercrime effectively, especially those crimes with cross-border elements or cross-border accomplices.”
“With Singapore's high Internet and mobile penetration rates, cybercrime has been on a steady rise. We are witnessing a worrying trend towards more Singaporeans, especially the elderly, falling victim to online scams and cybercrime as syndicates and individuals continue to exploit the speed, convenience and anonymity of the Internet to commit these crimes. In the Annual Crime Brief 2015 released by SPF in February 2016, it was reported that the overall crime rate in Singapore increased by 4%. This has been credited largely to the rise in online commercial crimes which increased by a troubling 46.5% from 2014 to 2015, with almost all other Page: 60 classes of crime registering a decrease in the number of cases. It is likely that these changes will continue in the years to come; as such, there is a need for the Home Team to adapt to these changes quickly and to have tools to effectively deal with this threat head-on. In light of this, could the Minister outline what steps have been, or are being taken, to adapt our Home Team to deal with the growing threat of cybercrime in Singapore? Furthermore, could the Minister outline what more can be done to raise awareness among the community about the dangers of cybercrime, especially among the youth and the elderly who tend to be more vulnerable to such crimes? As the nature of crime continues to evolve in Singapore, cybersecurity is also an emerging concern. Around the world, both governments and the private sector have been the target of cyberattacks. As a result, sensitive personal and corporate information have been stolen and infiltrated systems damaged due to cybersecurity attacks.”