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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“This clarity facilitates better usage and protection of GIs by providing a better indicator for those who may be concerned over a potential infringement. Further, clause 5(d) and the new section 48(4) in clause 7 delineate when a qualification or limitation is appropriate and when a notice of opposition is appropriate. This provides needed guidance and ensures that the more appropriate process is used in any given circumstance. The other main group of amendments relate to variants in a GI. Variants play an important role in the IP right of GIs. When a product's reputation and market expand across the globe, it and its GI would probably have to be translated or transliterated in order to be represented in a different language. By protecting other forms, such as translations and transliterations, we protect the essence of the GI such that merchants are unable to circumvent the protection of GIs by simply changing the form in which it is presented. This affords a more complete protection and assists in establishing a global market. It not only helps preserve authenticity and quality of products related to the GI but also makes them more accessible to people who speak a different language. In relation to this, the illustration in the Explanatory Statement for clause 2 refers to "Lion City Apples" as a variant for "Apples of Singapore." I must say a much less exciting example than "Pulau Ubin Oranges". I do like the ring of "Pulau Ubin Oranges". Would the Minister explain under what circumstances would a nickname for a place be recognised as a variant under the GI? For official nicknames used widely and even at national celebrations, such as a National Day Parade, it is clear that it is quite well-known and accepted.”
“Sir, the regime protecting geographical indications in Singapore has been developing robustly in the past year. In April 2019, the Geographical Indications Act 2014 came into effect, and, along with it, the registry of geographical indications started operations. This was in line with our international obligations under the EUSFTA. Under the Schedule of the GI Act 2014, the categories of goods that a GI may be registered under relate to foodstuff or agricultural products. For countries where there are a lot of exports of such items that qualify for GI, GIs help build up the reputation and quality associated with the produce in a different country. Although Singapore is not an agricultural exporting country, GIs are still relevant to us. Why? Singaporeans enjoy and consume food from all over the world. Therefore, GIs add assurance relating to the unique flavour and authenticity of the product. This Bill makes the GI framework clearer through two key avenues: (a) the qualification and limitation of rights; and (b) variants of GIs. At this juncture, I declare for the Hansard record that I am a lawyer and some of my work relates to intellectual property (IP) rights. On qualification of rights before registration, clause 5 amends the law so that qualification of rights can only be made after publication but before registration. After registration, clause 7 inserts a new section to provide for a very similar process post-registration, albeit the term "limitation of scope" instead of "qualification" is used. Would the Minister elaborate on why the process, which in substance appears the same, has been bifurcated into pre- and post-registration? The process is important as it sets out more clearly what is protected and what is not protected.”
“Essentially, how is Singapore also being part of the solution to find solutions to the global emergency in terms of vaccines, medical discoveries and best practices to contain the virus so that Singaporeans benefit, the region and the wider global community of nations benefit?”
“Sir, in addition to the needed domestic effort to minimise the risks of community spread, how is the Government working with our Singapore health force to find solutions to the global emergency, in terms of vaccines and the collation of medical discoveries and best practices to contain the virus? Such solutions aid Singaporeans, the region and the wider community of nations. Secondly, while we are putting in measures to minimise the risks of a community spread of the Wuhan coronavirus, what are the protocols in place should the situation translate into serious community spread?”
“I thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the response. The question is, in light of the statistic that the highest number of new drug abusers are below 35 and in light of the growing calls, at least around the world – not in Singapore but around the world – to legalise recreational drug use, and in addition to that, this cost of drug crime study, how can we use these statistics and facts to bolster our position against drug trafficking into Singapore? And in addition to that, to assist drug consumers to rehabilitate and not be recalcitrant? So, deterring both the supply and the demand, in light of these facts and statistics.”
“As the powers are intrusive and the threat of a step-in being invoked pre-emptively can cause uncertainty for all involved, would the Minister provide some examples to illustrate the severity involved in circumstances of public interest? Essentially, what is the threshold required? In addition to the committees and the possibility of step-in orders, the Codes of Practice provided for under clause 38 allow for greater flexibility. This is particularly valuable where technology is rapidly changing. Sir, similar to the current PHMCA, the Bill also provides for powers of inspection, search and seizure and other investigative powers. Clause 41(6) of the Bill did not appear in the Act and requires any person present at any premises to render all necessary assistance and cooperation for entry, inspection, investigation. This is especially important where the data or information is stored electronically. This is because in such circumstances, human assistance through the provision of passwords can greatly aid the speed and ease of accessing important information, allowing for better enforcement with less resources. In conclusion, Sir, health is important to every person. Healthcare services are often not "good to have" but necessary. As healthcare services impact us directly, a good healthcare network is an important line of defence for the people of Singapore. This Bill changes the landscape and expands the horizon of the regulation of healthcare services. No longer bound by locale, this modular system provides more flexibility to adapt to rapidly-changing technology. Besides ensuring that our regulatory regime is able to cope with and harness the benefits of technology, this Bill also puts in place measures to protect public interest in the provision of healthcare.”
“This appears to be a form of privilege which protects information and reports, preventing them from being used in medical negligence lawsuits, for instance. The quality assurance committee needs to be able to assess the true state of affairs with candidness and transparency. This provision allows healthcare service providers to be candid with them and work together with them to ensure that healthcare attains a degree of standard. As this committee is not novel, would the Minister share with us how well these committees have worked in the past regime and what can be done to improve its function in the new regime? Another committee is the clinical ethics committee. Clause 26 requires a case to be referred to a clinical ethics committee where a patient is recommended to go for a service in a prescribed category. To prevent committee-shopping, clauses 26(3) and (4)(b) specify that a person must not provide the proposed prescribed service if any clinical ethics committee to which the individual’s case is referred is not satisfied that it is ethically appropriate. Besides having committees, another measure designed to protect the public in the provision of healthcare services is step-in orders. From clause 33(1), step-in orders are used to prevent a disruption in care of the patients due to financial matters, such as insolvency, lack of licence after a suspension or revocation, or where the licensee carries out things against the public interest or in contravention of the Act. This order by the Minister allows partial or total takeover to protect the public's interest.”
“Part 3 of the Bill also sets out positions the licensee has to have, that is, the PO and CGO. The requirements for these will be set out in the code of practice per clause 23(1)(b). These positions do not appear in PHMCA. How does the new system compare with the current system? Would the Minister please explain the rationale and thinking behind the structure and change to this governance model? Also, in the course of my work as a lawyer, which I now declare, I have worked alongside Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of hospitals. They have much to deal with in the day-to-day running of the hospital and regularly attend to unprecedented situations. Given their plate is already so full, I would ask MOH not to require that the CEO of the hospital be the PO or the CGO, and that the CEO be able, if appropriate, to delegate the role to a suitably qualified colleague. Also, will current licensees with leaner manpower, such as general practitioners, struggle to meet this criterion? Besides changing the mode of regulation from locale to services-based, this Bill also puts in place measures to ensure the quality of care provided. One such measure are committees. There are three committees mentioned in this Bill – the quality assurance committee, service review committee and the clinical ethics committee. The quality assurance committee is also present under PHMCA. Sections 11(3) to 11(5) of that Act are similar to clauses 51(3) to (5) of the Bill. It provides that the quality assurance committee is not competent nor compellable to disclose information in Court or produce documents requested or produced solely for the purpose of the quality assurance committee.”
“Sir, this Bill introduces a new regime of regulating healthcare services in Singapore. Previously, PHMCA was the principal Act governing the regulation of clinics and hospitals in Singapore. While it worked in a time where medical services were bound by space and time, an expanded regime is necessary with the advent of telemedicine and other similar healthcare services. Instead of licensing by physical location, the licences under this Bill are based on the kind of services provided. Even though there is increased flexibility in the kinds of services that can be packaged under a licence, clause 29 prevents the public from being misled by the name of the healthcare service provider. Also, as evinced by the First Schedule, not all healthcare services are licensable healthcare services. How will non-licensable healthcare services be regulated? This is important to protect those who may use or need such services. In this period of transitioning from the old regime to the new regime, how will the Ministry help healthcare providers whose services straddle, for some time, the old and new regime? While this modular services-based system provides more flexibility, compliance with regulations may become more difficult as licensees need to look through more regulations to know which are applicable to them and which are not. The exercise may also increase the time needed to scan through a code of practice to pick up and implement relevant or salient points. Given enhanced regulation, how will the Ministry help to keep the costs of running healthcare services down? This is crucial as it was reported in June 2019 that healthcare cost inflation in Singapore in 2018 was 10 times that of the economic inflation rate.”
“How can we ensure that the limitations on foreign persons will not be overly onerous in institutions, orders and missionaries who continue to do sterling work in Singapore? Allow me to say, Sir, that there is strength when people of different religions come together to work for the common good. I was touched by a recent exercise conducted by the grassroots leaders involving porridge distribution in the constituency I serve in Ulu Pandan. The rice was donated by the Singapore Buddhist Lodge, it was then cooked into delicious porridge or bubur by members of the Al Huda Mosque and then distributed by volunteers from St Ignatius Church. In fact, there were Christians, Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists who distributed the porridge within my constituency. We came together – different religions in Singapore – to offer the less-advantaged residents lovingly-cooked porridge. It was very meaningful for me and those present. Many hands, one product. Being able to come together to contribute to a meaningful cause testifies to the precious religious harmony we enjoy in Singapore. In conclusion, even as the colour red in our flag stands for universal brotherhood, we still need the legislative tools and levers to promote such a harmony in our daily living in Singapore. It is a constant work in progress. This Bill is part of that work, that constant work in progress and, therefore, and I support it.”
“However, the good work of religious groups should not be unduly hampered by safeguards against foreign influence. Historically, religious leaders from other countries have contributed greatly to Singapore’s development. Religious leaders from other parts of the world, such as England, Australia, Portugal, Ireland, China and India came to spread or practise their religion through charitable deeds. They helped set up schools, hospitals, hospices, offer midwifery services, cared for the sick and wounded during the Japanese Occupation, doing good work for the communities here. Some of these charitable institutions have been corporatised. Do the same requirements relating to Singaporeans and foreign persons apply to corporatised religious charitable groups? If so, can exemptions be granted? Furthermore, many religious groups in Singapore have links to foreign institutions, for example, the Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore with the Vatican, the Anglicans with Canterbury, Buddhist groups with Sri Lanka and Thailand. I agree that disclosure is needed to prevent situations where there is a deliberate intent to create enmity. It is also a good move to anticipate potential divisions that hate speech can create, but I hope the discretion to give exemptions will be exercised wisely, tactfully and delicately because of the universal nature of charity, honest hard work and integrity often found in religious values and organisations. Considering the long-standing contribution and ties that Singapore's religious groups have with overseas religious groups, how flexible and nimble enough is our law to ensure that the intent of this Bill is achieved without reducing the good work of institutions here?”
“For instance, someone cannot use the freedom as a licence to intentionally promote enmity, hatred, ill-will or hostility. This is addressed in the new section 17F(1) and (3). The duties undergirding the offences in the new section 17F are gradated based on whether or not the person is a religious leader. It is appropriate to hold leaders to a higher standard. Since they wield greater influence and have others entrusted to their care, they should bear greater responsibility for their actions and words. However, there needs to be clarity as to whom this standard applies to. Would the Minister clarify the scope of "religious leaders" in the Bill? The explanatory statement states that it includes lay leaders. Would that include part-time staff, those invited to speak to recount their experience and give testimonies to a religious group; counsellors who help families overcome financial, family or marriage difficulties or the loss of loved ones; those who do or organise charitable work, such as providing rations for families in the neighbourhood? What constitutes a leader? Some religions require making an oath or taking certain vows or going through certain ceremonial rites. Other religions do not require such a formal commissioning process to become a leader. Some religious groups formalise mentorship or open up the facilitation of small group discussions. These people still do great service as volunteers. Therefore, it would be helpful if the Minister could explain the definition of "religious leader". We need to prevent the spread of foreign radicalised teachings that promote violent extremism. One of the ways in which this objective has sought to be achieved in the Bill is by limiting the involvement of foreign persons.”
“However, may I ask the Minister to explain why it is that the PCRH can recommend varying a new RO under section 11(5) whereas the power of the Council regarding an existing order is available only to confirm or cancel but not to vary it? I ask this question in relation to the amended section 13(3). But, overall, my view is that there are safeguards. For example, for an RO under MRHA, not only does the PCRH need to scrutinise the RO, the President also needs to confirm it, vary, cancel or refuse to confirm it. This is not just provided for under section 12 of the Act. It is also provided for under Article 22I of the Constitution. This is similar to the President's discretion to concur with a Detention Order under the Internal Security Act (ISA) under Art 151(4) of the Constitution. Even as this Bill is updated to meet the morphing threats of our times, it is important to reiterate some key principles undergirding religious freedom and the preservation of religious harmony in Singapore. Firstly, rights must be exercised responsibly. Article 15 of the Constitution states that every person in Singapore has the right to profess, practise and propagate his religion. Paragraph 3 of Article 15 also states that every religious group has the right to manage its own religious affairs, to establish and maintain institutions for religious or charitable purposes and to acquire and own property and hold and administer it in accordance with the law. Flowing from this constitutional right, it is important that religions be given the space in Singapore to exercise those freedoms. However, freedoms must be exercised within proper boundaries. Freedoms must be used responsibly.”
“Some may say that we do not need this Bill since we have never issued a single RO since the Act was passed in 1990. I respectfully take a different view. I take a different position. Why? Because the mere presence of the law does have an educative and even a deterrent effect. Just because a law is not actively used or enforced does not mean it is useless. Some may question the need to amend the law because it seems to have been efficacious in preserving religious harmony which we still enjoy today. But my own view is that the law needs to be amended, especially to address the swiftness with which messages of violence and hatred can spread. Therefore, the amendments today are necessary. The virality and speed at which hate speech which harms religious harmony travel have increased greatly through the use of technology and social media. The Facebook post with altered images of venerated ancient Hindu warrior kings and a political leader is one such example. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told a Security Council Ministerial meeting that "the new frontier is cyber-terrorism – the use of social media and the dark web to coordinate attacks, spread propaganda and recruit new followers". The threats we face are morphing and what is needed are updated tools to be able to address these potential harms. Just because there are more tools does not mean the tools need to be utilised. Just as how the MRHA was not enforced these 28 years, similarly, the powers under the amended MRHA Bill we are debating today should continue to be used judiciously. To address concerns of abuse of power, RO and extensions of ROs have to go through the PCRH per sections 11 and 13. They also need to be confirmed or varied by the President per section 12. These safeguards are good.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, a look around the globe will show why a Bill, such as this one, is needed. Around the world, enmity among religious groups have created an inability for people to practise their religion in peace. In some countries, practising one's faith has cost property, safety and lives. Allow me, Sir, to share some examples. In the Czech Republic, the construction of a mosque was met with petitions, street demonstrations, public hearings and vandalism to the homes of Muslim families. In Egypt, over a span of 13 months from October 2017 to October 2018, 15 churches were violently protested against by Muslims and 11 had to be shut. Stereotypes and misconceptions about Christians and Christian practices were rampant even among school children. In 2014, in India, altered images of Hindu kings of medieval India and a right-wing political leader sparked stone pelting, violence and damaged vehicles and religious places of a minority community. In February 2019, in the US, a synagogue's window was smashed on a Sabbath while the rabbi and his family, including young children, were inside. In 2014 and 2018, in Sri Lanka, Buddhist extremists attacked Muslim Sri Lankans, spreading rumours that planted fear and insecurity as well as hate speech that caused violence and riots to break out. The Christians in Sri Lanka are also not spared. In 2018, there were 86 verifiable cases of discrimination, threats and violence against Christians in Sri Lanka and 26 such incidents occurred this year, before the Easter bombings, including the disruption of a Sunday service. Having seen what is happening around the world, should our Government just sit by and not do anything? Or should the Government take a more proactive role in securing and protecting our precious religious harmony?”
“I thank the Minister for his response. Two supplementary questions, Mr Speaker. First, do we have military hardware, the assets, to counter the military threat of a military-grade unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attack or a military drone attack? In particular, would our air defence continue to provide a protective umbrella over Singapore, notwithstanding the advent of military-grade drones and UAVs, and the threat they pose? The second question – I agree that the solution does not depend solely on the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF). Therefore, how will drone hobbyists be made to abide by rules, such as to avoid air space close to key installations, which, in turn, will help our authorities quickly detect, isolate and neutralise the real and harmful threats?”
“Would they include shopping malls and hawker centres? Additionally, since there is great benefit in composting food waste, does the Ministry have plans to extend food waste management systems to residential estates or make such food waste management facilities accessible to non-occupants of the prescribed building? Besides dealing with food waste through a food waste management system, there is a need to minimise food contaminating recyclable items. Perhaps the Ministry could consider requiring regular dustbins be situated near recycling bins so that the inconsiderate actions of a few will not hamper the recycling efforts of the majority. What is being done to increase recycling literacy and how effective has it been? Sir, in conclusion, while we increase efforts to reduce packaging and recycle food and electronic waste, what we need is renewed mindsets. For example, is the measure of unusability whether something is old and faded rather than spoilt and inoperable? Instead of reusing old mindsets, maybe we should discard them to have new ones – new ones that help us be content with what we have; new ones that help us prioritise responsible disposal over personal convenience; new ones that promote conscientious stewardship of our landfill over more short-sighted enjoyment of the temporal, without caring about the future. We need to change the way we conceptualise, handle and create waste. This Bill provides the important infrastructural support for that change and, therefore, I support it.”
“Second, what plans are there to increase our capability to recycle our own waste product, especially plastic waste? This is especially important since there are reports that recyclable waste is ending up incinerated. Thirdly, because trash can be treasures for a different product, how can Singapore tap into upcycling our waste and promoting a circular economy even though Singapore may not have a very big manufacturing sector ourselves? The third kind of waste this Bill addresses is in Part 5, being food waste. Clause 26 requires building managers of certain kinds of buildings to provide their own food waste management facility within the premises. If that building is an existing building, clause 27(2) allows the food waste management process to be outsourced instead of being situated onsite but the food must still be segregated and treated. Although the building manager needs to provide such a facility, the duty is not left to the building's management alone. An occupier is compelled to make use of it through clause 25 which creates an offence for an occupier of such buildings to dispose of food waste together with other types of waste if the food waste was generated in that building. While compelled by law to manage food waste, processing food waste onsite may actually save cost for management. This is what happened in Our Tampines Hub (OTH) where only one garbage compactor truck is needed daily, compared to three previously, saving the management about $40,000 annually. Because food was not left exposed overnight, pest and rodent problems are minimised. Food compost are used as fertilisers and non-potable water used for cleaning the eco-digester, rubbish bins or bin centres. Would the Ministry kindly elaborate on who are the intended prescribed buildings?”
“Furthermore, as this Bill addresses regulated products, would the Minister explain how this might affect e-commerce of electronic products and how are concerns that those required to accept or collect waste might become inequitably burdened by waste that they were not responsible for producing, that is, how are these concerns going to be addressed? Besides electronic waste, another important source of waste that this Bill seeks to address is packaging waste. Part 4 institutes a reporting regime relating to packaging which requires producers of specified packaging to monitor its packaging waste and to think about ways to reduce, reuse or recycle packaging. These reports are to be submitted according to the years that the producers hit the prescribed limit. The flexibility in such a scheme is good. It encourages producers to be aware of what they are producing, why they are producing it and how they can reduce it. Yet, on the other hand, producers figure out for themselves how to get to the end goal of reducing packaging waste, allowing them to prioritise what they are looking for in packaging, accommodating the variety of purposes packaging may serve for that product. For instance, drink powder sachets apportion the powder, make it portable, differentiate sachet contents and protects it from getting wet. Yet, on the other hand, more environmentally-friendly packaging, such as paper-based packaging, may serve similar functions instead. Relating to recycling packaging, I have three questions. Firstly, do biodegradable plastics help our landfill problem or are they treated the same way as non-biodegradable plastics? If so, is it feasible to tweak our waste management system to better tap into the biodegradable ability of these biodegradable plastics?”
“This would be especially useful for bulky electric products, such as washing machines and fridges. Not only would this reduce the toxicity of waste going to our landfill, it will also be able to extract valuable minerals and materials from these used products, finding treasure in the trash. This will reduce the demand on mining and make these limited resources on the earth last longer. In essence, we have a duty in Parliament to ensure we entrench a sustainable plan to protect our green environment, reduce plastic-usage, increase recycling, enhance upcycling. If done correctly, Singapore can be a global thought leader on this. It must be a united effort across all sectors of our society. Collection is the first step and there is a need to encourage and promote collection. This is done by requiring operators of the responsible producer scheme to hit a target collection in clause 30(c) and by requiring them to promote awareness of electronic waste disposal in clause 30(d). After collection, the waste needs to be dealt with properly. Clause 12 requires producers to manage electronic waste by becoming a member of a responsible producer scheme, which is regulated by Part 6 of the Bill. Furthermore, clause 17 makes it an offence for non-individuals to dispose of regulated products as waste instead of through the licensed producer responsibility scheme, licensed waste collector or licensed e-waste recycler, or someone approved to collect e-waste. Even as the consequences are quite serious for non-compliance, would the Minister explain how they will work with and assist those arrested and affected understand how to comply with this legislation?”
“Sir, Singapore is facing a problem with waste. When something is thrown away, it does not disappear; it has to be disposed of somewhere or somehow. After reducing the volume of unrecycled waste through burning which produces energy, we need to put the remaining ashes somewhere. Landfills serve this purpose but, as the name connotes, it fills land and land is not something we have in abundance. We need to be good stewards of it; we cannot waste it. We have already used up substantial areas in Choa Chu Kang, Lim Chu Kang and Lorong Halus as landfills. Pulau Semakau is currently a key landfill and we cannot afford to waste it. The current 157-hectare plot that we are using in Pulau Semakau can hold approximately 6,680 Olympic-sized swimming pools worth of ash. Last year, before incineration, which reduces the volume by about 90%, we generated 15,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools of waste. Over the past 40 years, the amount of waste increased seven-fold, with food waste increasing 30% in the last 10 years. In fact, the current projected lifespan of Pulau Semakau is 2035, 10 years earlier from previous estimates and only about 16 years from now. What we are aiming for is to prolong this for as long as possible. This Bill supports the endeavour by addressing electrical and electronic waste, packaging waste and food waste. Part 3 of this Bill addresses electrical and electronic waste. It makes sure users have a way to recycle these products. Clause 13 requires producers of non-consumer products to collect upon request what was produced or manufactured. Clause 15 requires large retailers to accept used products similar to those they sell in order to dispose of them. Clause 14 requires retailers who deliver products to accept and dispose of the old item.”
“Sir, as I had stated at the start of my speech, children need protection where they are vulnerable because of physical domestic abuse. The state must swiftly intervene. Laws that allow swift intervention are key. For those reasons, I support this Bill.”
“Paragraph (e) talks about influencing the development of self-destructive, criminal, deviant or other mal-adaptive behaviour. Would the good Minister explain what is meant by "influence", "deviant" and "anti-social" behaviour? Also, would the Minister explain what "infantilising" means in illustration (b)? Notwithstanding my clarifications above, Mr Speaker, Sir, it is important that enough latitude and discretion be given to Child Protection Service officers for swift intervention where necessary. Would the Minister explain also the process of investigating a possible child abuse case and elaborate on the thoughts that go towards deciding how a child abuse case is best managed? In particular, under what circumstances will a child be removed from his or her parents, and, if that happens, will the child still have the opportunity to meet and even reconcile with his or her parents under appropriate circumstances? This amendment broadens the discretion of the Child Protection Service officers and allows them to intervene swiftly where necessary. Would the Minister elaborate on whether there are sufficient resources, particularly manpower, to exercise that broad discretion given to the officers in light of the unfortunately increasing number of cases investigated as well as the expansion in definition of child abuse through this Bill? As a significant number of child abuse cases involve children under the tender age of seven, would the Minister also elaborate on how childcare teachers have been trained to be able to detect child abuse? In conclusion, Sir, this Bill consolidates an extensive review of CYPA, putting into law amendments that can better support caregivers, youth victims, youth offenders and child abuse victims.”
“On one hand, the protection of the child and, hence, the child's welfare and best interests are at risk. On the other hand, the benefit of being cared for by his or her parent or guardian is significant. As mentioned in the beginning of my speech, the number of child abuse cases is concerning. Even as we seek to find a better balance, we must also ensure that the broader discretion given to Child Protection Service Officers achieves deterrence of child abuse, and that deterrence must come with powers to act swiftly. When a child is abused, a child's life is at stake – not just physical but also the long-lasting emotional trauma from being emotionally or psychologically abused. Swift intervention is, therefore, necessary. It is a basic ingredient that I am supportive of. The broader discretion through this Bill allows the Child Protection Service officers to make the necessary judgement as to when that intervention is necessary. With regard to the amended section 4(2) which sets out specific examples of emotional or psychological abuse, I do have a few clarifications for the Minister. Paragraph (a) mentions well-being and a sense of self-worth. How will this provision operate? Paragraph (b) mentions that threatening to physically hurt the child or young person is child abuse. Will the Minister clarify how this provision is to be understood in the context of section 64 of the Women's Charter where correction is an exception to "family violence"? Paragraph (d) says that confining a child or young person to a small space for the purposes of discipline is considered abuse. Would the Minister elaborate on what is intended by the phrase "any small space"?”
“This is especially important for the Misuse of Drugs Act offences as we do not want our young persons to become targets for drug syndicates to hire them or manipulate them as mules just because they are specially treated by our criminal justice system or the Youth Courts. Thirdly, this Bill provides greater support for those who care for children and young persons. In particular, I want to highlight the support that this Bill strives towards fostering. Clause 57 extends childcare leave to include foster children and allows the foster parent to disclose information necessary for this purpose. It is good that foster parents are supported in taking care of the children. They need the same kind of leave to be present for their children, for instance, if the child is sick or at a parent-teachers meeting. They also need it in order to better ease a foster child into the family and bring the child for therapy sessions if therapy is necessary. By better supporting foster parents, hopefully more loving families will be willing to step up and provide a loving and caring environment for children and young persons, showing the foster child what family and parents' love look like. And, thereafter, hopefully, the child can be adopted either by the foster parents or parents who are hoping to adopt a child. Or if there can be reconciliation with the child's biological parents and the fostered child, then, if possible, the child can be reunited with the family, provided it is, indeed, safe. Fourthly and ultimately, Sir, this Bill addresses child abuse within the family, particularly tackling the question at what point is it in the best interests of the child or young person that the state intervenes in the parent-child relationship?”
“Several changes to CYPA also better support the youth offender's rehabilitation and now reintegration into society, trying as best as possible that the past does not hold them back from achieving their potential and that they can continue to have hope for their future. One way is to allow sentences meted out by the Youth Court to be deemed as spent at the end of completing the supervision, detention, community sentence or fine, without needing to wait the normal three or so years. This is provided for in clause 73 and allows youth offenders to more easily reintegrate into society as they can declare that they have no criminal record. This enables the youth offender to turn over a new leaf. In fact, it creates a supporting scaffold structure around the youths, such as to be able to turn over a new leaf. So, another key amendment here. Another way is by the extension of CYPA to those 18 and under and not just those 16 and below. This provides young offenders access to a criminal justice system which places emphasis on rehabilitation and reintegration so that the mistakes of the past do not continue to haunt the young person when he or she is older. One way is by providing for the youth offender's identity to be kept confidential for life and not just while he is still a young person, unless he or she reoffends. This is provided for in clause 50. This allows the young person's space to grow and change without being shackled to his past. Another example, and a good example, is clause 27(a) read with the Second Schedule within the Bill, which allows for the Prosecution or the Court to transmit cases involving the causing of grievous hurt, certain Misuse of Drugs Offences and other more serious offences to the Court of appropriate jurisdiction.”
“Besides amending the definition for young person to include those 18 and under, child trafficking offences in CYPA are extended from just children to include young persons. Clause 10 amends the heading for sections 12 to 18 so that the trafficking offences apply to children and young persons. This, again, is to be welcomed. The words of the offences have similarly been expanded. This is to be welcomed. For instance, section 12 prohibiting the transfer of possession, custody or control of a child for valuable consideration has been amended by clause 11, extending it to young persons. Secondly, Mr Speaker, this Bill tweaks how youths are treated in the criminal justice system. Where the offence is under CYPA, the new section 84B ensures that the victim's identity is held in strict confidence even after the victim turns 18. It may seem a slight amendment but actually has major positive consequences. The judge is also able to order takedown of publications in media as well as on social media. Exceptions are at the Court's discretion in the interest of justice, as stated in the new section 84B(2). The Director-General and protector have stronger powers of investigation in the new section 8. For instance, although self-incriminating information cannot be withheld, they are inadmissible unless false information is provided. As it is difficult for victims to retell the horrendous stories of abuse, would the Minister, therefore, provide an update on what is being done to minimise the trauma involved in recounting the harrowing experience, especially in Court settings?”
“Sir, children need protection where they are vulnerable because of physical domestic abuse. The state must swiftly intervene. Laws that allow swift intervention are key. Before going into my points proper on the Bill, I would like to put on record my thanks to the hardworking and committed MSF officers who give of themselves in their calling, their duty to serve and protect among the most vulnerable in our society. Sir, I return to my points on the Bill. Ten years ago, in 2009, MSF investigated 272 cases of child abuse involving family members. Fast forward five years, in 2014, MSF investigated 381 such cases. By 2018, MSF investigated 1,163 in one year alone. Among last year's investigations, about half were physical abuse cases while about 20% involved sexual abuse. Remember, these abuse cases involve a family member. Not just statistics, these numbers reflect the number of young lives affected by domestic abuse. Children put into perspective the importance of CYPA which this Bill amends. Sir, I would like to talk about four aspects. One, how the Bill extends the applicability of CYPA; two, how youths are treated in the criminal justice system; three, how the Bill provides greater support for caregivers; and four, how the Bill provides greater discretion to MSF officers as to determining at points of intervention. Firstly, this Bill extends the protection under CYPA to more people. Clause 2(1)(b) and 2(2)(b) amends the definition of young persons, extending the applicability of the Act from those 16 years of age and below to those 18 and below. This brings it in line with some other statutes, such as the Prevention of Human Trafficking Act, which draws the line between adult and child protection at 18 years of age. This is to be welcomed.”
“I thank the Minister for his comprehensive reply. I have two supplementary questions. The first is, will we see more regional trade pacts to overcome any side effects of the US-China trade standoff and Brexit which the Minister alluded to in his response? Secondly, how about regional innovation pacts as a way to adapt to the evolving situation? And innovation being capability-focused, rather than capacity-focused, which was what the Minister alluded to in his reply.”
“In this way, this Bill makes the position under the statutory regime of registering reciprocal judgments certain and accommodates differences in legal remedies available in different jurisdictions. This is a major advantage. With more possibilities albeit with in-built safeguards, there will be greater flexibility to negotiate bilateral agreements on the recognition and enforcement of Court judgments. No changes seem to have been made to the list of countries under the REFJA and RECJA at least since 1999. Hopefully, more bilateral agreements to this effect would be entered into following this Bill. This would boost dispute resolution in Singapore as the ability to enforce a judgment in multiple countries can be valuable for certain commercial disputes. Would the Minister share with us any plans to negotiate and conclude such bilateral agreements, especially for interim measures which the 2005 Hague Convention on Choice of Courts does not cover? In conclusion, Sir, this Bill opens a lot of opportunities for negotiating bilateral agreements such that Singapore's Court judgments can be enforced overseas, furthering Singapore's position as a premier dispute resolution hub. Therefore, I support the Bill.”
“Secondly, clause 3(1) allows the Minister to recognise judgments coming from Courts besides superior Courts. The previous blanket ban against recognition of Subordinate Courts prevented Singapore's State Court judgments from being registered overseas due to the need for reciprocity. Because of the increase in jurisdictional limit of the State Courts, cases that have to be enforced overseas have to be transferred to the High Court. This has disadvantages. The party who needs overseas enforcement may not get High Court costs from the other party, incurring greater unrecoverable costs. So, this change to make it possible for Singapore to enter into bilateral agreements that recognise judgments from our State Courts directly is ideal. Even while this Bill expands the possibilities for enforcing judgments and interim measures from other jurisdictions, this Bill also puts in safeguards to prevent abuse. Firstly, the new section 3(4) ensures that the judgment originates from the court recognised, preventing the requirement of reciprocity from being circumvented. Secondly, clause 4 adds another ground for setting aside a registered judgment, that is, if the judgment was discharged. According to the Explanatory Statement, an example of this is in the event of a bankruptcy. This prevents the bankruptcy regime from being circumvented. Thirdly, the new section 4(3B) allows Singapore Courts to register a judgment for the amount of compensation but not for punitive or exemplary damages. Unlike section 16 of the Choice of Court Agreements Act which provides the Court the discretion to refuse to recognise or enforce the part of a judgment that exceeds compensation for the actual amount of loss or harm suffered, the position for such judgments is unclear under the RECJA and the REFJA.”
“Relevant to how the Reciprocal Enforcement of Foreign Judgment Act supplements and does not affect other existing regimes, would the Minister explain the rationale behind the retention of section 7(1) of the Reciprocal Enforcement of Foreign Judgment Act which says that "no proceedings for the recovery of a sum payable under a foreign judgment, being a judgment to which this Part applies, other than proceedings by way of registration of the judgment, shall be entertained by any Court in Singapore"? Does this mean that if a judgment could be enforced via the Choice of Court Act instead of the REFJA, that the REFJA must be resorted to and not the Choice of Court Act? That is a question. As this streamlined statutory regime supplements existing regimes, this Bill also broadens the scope of the Act, making it more useful. Firstly, it broadens the kinds of judgment that can be registered under this Act. Although retaining the limitations of certain kinds of judgments in section 2(2), clause 2 includes non-money judgement as a type of judgment. This is very helpful even for commercial matters. For instance, in cases involving intellectual property rights, the remedy may be to transfer property or to destroy infringing material. Coupled with the inclusion of interlocutory judgments as a type of judgment recognised by the Act in clause 2, global mareva injunctions can be registered and enforced without commencing a separate action. Because there may be differences in legal remedies available or some other reasons where it may be just and convenient not to strictly enforce a non-money judgment, the new section 4(3A)(b) gives the Court discretion on how to enforce non-money judgments.”
“For example, the tests for setting aside registration of a judgment on grounds of public policy are slightly different in section 5(a)(v) of the Reciprocal Enforcement of Foreign Judgment Act and section 2(f) of the Reciprocal Enforcement of Commonwealth Judgment Act. This streamlined statutory regime supplements other processes by which foreign judgments are enforced in Singapore. The Choice of Court Act implements the Hague Choice of Court Convention, a multilateral treaty with 32 contracting parties currently. However, it does not include recognition and enforcement of interim measures. The statutory regime, as amended by this Bill, will allow such reciprocal recognition if and when such bilateral agreements are entered into. Besides formalised statutory procedures, there are also non-binding memoranda between countries that help facilitate this process of recognition and enforcement. As of September 2018, the Supreme Court of Singapore had entered into Memoranda of Guidance as to the Enforcement of Money judgments with five courts in various jurisdictions. One such example is the Memorandum of Guidance Between The Supreme People's Court of The People's Republic of China and The Supreme Court of Singapore on Recognition and Enforcement of Money Judgments In Commercial Cases signed on 31 August 2018.”
“Sir, this Bill furthers justice. How? By facilitating the realisation of judgments into real, tangible benefits even if these need to be realised overseas. This is especially important in a world where cross-border business transactions frequently occur and where assets and goods may be dispersed around the globe. Enforcement via a registration of judgment is a regime that allows for cost-savings and greater certainty when an overseas judgment is being enforced. It is based on reciprocity, that is, that Singapore's judgments will be recognised and enforced in their jurisdiction and that that jurisdiction's judgment will be recognised and enforced in Singapore except for a few exceptions. This reciprocity is based on executive action, namely, through the Minister making an order under section 3 of the Act. At this stage, Sir, allow me to declare that I am a practising lawyer at the Singapore Bar. This Bill streamlines and broadens the regime, furthering Singapore's position as a dispute resolution hub. Because our judgments will be more easily enforced overseas, parties will have greater reason to choose Singapore to resolve the dispute. As more cases in Singapore are heard, Singapore's jurisprudence will develop. With more established jurisprudence and greater familiarity with Singapore law, more contracting parties will choose Singapore law as the choice of law and Singapore as the place with exclusive jurisdiction. This Bill streamlines the regime by removing the distinction between Commonwealth and non-Commonwealth countries. Although they operated in generally the same way, there were a few minor differences.”
“But often, with long lives, though not necessarily so, come with it some loss of the kind of life as we knew it. Needing to rely on others to carry out ADLs does not just affect the elderly but also affects people from all ages. Through it all, the recipient of help is still valued and valuable. This CareShield Life and Long-Term Care Bill helps to support them and their families. By pooling the risks among many in society, they may be able to receive more than they would have in their savings otherwise. By allowing spouses to tap onto each other's MediSave account, another resource to support each other through the difficult time is opened. By setting up the Long-Term Care Support Fund, there can be more support for those who need more help in financing long-term care options, whether it be through subsidising premiums or through other schemes. Because this Bill implements and commits to the caring of those who are severely disabled, and for the reasons I have stated, I support it.”
“This is especially important as the number of persons who are severely disabled is projected to increase to 69,000 in 2030 compared to 29,000 in 2014. That is about a 140% increase in demand for long-term care services or long-term care caregiver training. Would the Minister elaborate on the plans to ensure that we have sufficient personnel and facilities for this increase in demand? Because technology can help caring for severely disabled persons less physically demanding, how has Singapore been investing in such technology to reduce the reliance on foreign manpower and to allow those who work in this physically demanding field to enjoy a longer, meaningful career? Also, what efforts have been made to make certain assistive technologies more accessible to families who may need it to care for their loved ones? Sir, during this debate, there have been a number of broad criticisms against our healthcare system. In my view, however, we have, in broad terms, a good system in place. Is there room for improvement? Sure. But let us also acknowledge the merits. Where the provision of fiscal measures to support a sustainable healthcare model is concerned, where good quality doctors are concerned, where professional and hardworking nursing population is concerned, I think Singapore ranks well and does well. Singapore has been independently assessed as being second in the 2018 Bloomberg study on most efficient healthcare systems, that is, good outcomes but reasonable costs. So, I hope we can put things in perspective in this debate. In conclusion, Singaporeans have been fortunate, some may say blessed, with long lives, with our life expectancy being one of the highest in the world.”
“How does the Minister seek to address these perceived gaps? Fourthly, this Bill introduces offences and penalties for the administration of this scheme. Clause 49 criminalises the act of an assessor making a fraudulent disability assessment. As the integrity of the administration of CareShield Life and ElderShield schemes rests primarily on the disability assessor, this offence places a safeguard against fraudulent claims facilitated by disability assessors. Clause 50 criminalises the act of not applying the funds for the insured person first. The new section 16B(10) of the CPF Act also has a similar offence. This offence ameliorates the risk of cash payouts being misused. Because the person directly harmed by the act criminalised by this offence is the insured person or member, why is it that a portion of the penalty be returned to the insured person himself or herself instead of having the whole penalty be paid into the CareShield Life and ElderShield Insurance Fund? Because the penalty is possibly more than the amount misused by four to eight times, requiring the offender to pay the insured person or member would not remove the punitive quality of the penalty. An exception to the offence is reasonable excuse. Because different households structure their expenses differently such that it may not be very clear whether the payout was used for the insured person or member first, would the Minister give some examples of what a reasonable excuse might be? Even as this Bill seeks to provide some financial support for long-term care, financial support is only one side of the equation to ensuring that long-term care remains affordable. Another side of the equation is to expand the supply of long-term care services.”
“Because healthcare can come in many forms, this flexibility is valuable for families to have yet another place of resources to tap into to care for the severely disabled. But even as there is increased flexibility, it should not deplete from MediSave funds to the extent that MediSave is no longer useful for its intended purpose. This is especially acute where a child’s MediSave funds are used to pay for a parent's medical expenses, and the child has his or her own medical expenses to cover and, as a result of not marrying, the child does not have anyone else’s MediSave account to tap onto in the future. Therefore, would the Minister address these concerns? Furthermore, the new section 16B(1)(a) of the Central Provident Fund Act found in clause 66 indicates that there is a minimum sum in the member’s account in order for cash withdrawals for long-term care to be allowed. From news reports, the minimum sum that is being looked at is $5,000. Would the Minister explain how this figure was derived such that it ensures that the account holder still has money to pay for other healthcare needs? Thirdly, part 10 establishes the Long-Term Care Support Fund which is used for premium subsidies and other long-term care-related assistance as set out in clause 39. Would the Minister share with us what are some of the plans that the Ministry has in utilising the Funds for purposes other than subsidising CareShield Life premiums? In particular, what kind of assistance will there be for those who are severely disabled but have utilised the six years under the ElderShield scheme, those who were unable to purchase the ElderShield scheme because they had been severely disabled, and those who are low-income and do not have much in their MediSave account?”
“Sir, this Bill does not just implement the CareShield Life scheme, it also enables the ElderShield scheme to be administered by the Government instead of private insurance companies, it provides for the withdrawal of MediSave funds of persons who are severely disabled, it establishes the Long-Term Care Fund and puts in place offences and penalties. I will speak in favour of all these four aspects of the Bill successively. Firstly, this Bill transfers the ElderShield scheme from private insurance companies to Government administration, similar to how CareShield Life is also Government-administered. This has several advantages. The not-for profit administration increases the affordability of premiums. The centralisation of administering the scheme will streamline the application for payout process. It also allows for smoother transition for those who choose to shift from the ElderShield scheme to CareShield Life scheme. It also allows for the funds to be combined into a single CareShield Life and ElderShield Insurance Fund. This allows for more flexibility in investing. Even as the monies are consolidated into a single fund, how will the Minister ensure inter-generational equity in how the schemes are administered? That is one question I have. In relation to the transition from ElderShield to CareShield Life, will the Minister provide an indication as to when and how sign-ups can begin? Also, will Supplement Schemes for ElderShield be affected by the transfer of ElderShield to become Government-administered and change of coverage to CareShield Life instead of ElderShield should the policyholder choose to shift over to CareShield Life? Secondly, Sir, clause 66(5) provides for the withdrawal of MediSave funds of persons who are severely disabled.”
“For instance, if the Home Team develops video cameras that capture better quality images, these cameras can be used to enhance private security cameras and increase security throughout the island without necessarily installing a Police camera each and every time. This would help strengthen the Home Team's ability to work with private security industry and private players to keep Singapore a safe country to live in and to respond quickly in the event of a crisis or terror attack. In conclusion, Sir, HTX is an important addition to our Home Team, enabling them to go farther and further. It does so by utilising technology for their future and present challenges and by building up a strong team of technologists whose wealth of experience in the sensitivities of Home Team requirements will be able to help fashion future solutions fit for the Home Team’s purpose. And for these reasons, Sir, I support the Bill.”
“Fourthly, having a dedicated agency for science and technology opens up greater collaboration opportunities with science and technology home departments in other countries. It would be easier to explore and coordinate possible projects to collaborate on since all the Home Team-related science and technology teams are concentrated in a single agency. The increased opportunity to work with counterparts in other countries and to learn from their experience will be valuable for the development of our Home Team capabilities and experiences. Even as this new Statutory Board allows science and technology to develop solutions for the Home Team’s unique challenges, what the Home Team needs is not always unrelated to what is needed by other agencies or Ministries. For instance, drone technology used for search and rescue could also be utilised by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) for reconnaisance operations or recce ops. Where there is possibility for utilising technology for other purposes other than Home Team operations, I would like to ask the Minister how will this new agency work within the broader science and technology ecosystem in Singapore to achieve a safe and secure environment for us here in Singapore. Because there are current science and technology projects going on among the various Home Team agencies and private and public partnerships, I would like to ask the Minister how this new agency will affect such existing partnerships or even bolster them. Will the Minister consider allowing for non-sensitive Home Team technology to be used in consumer products should the opportunity arise?”
“There would be more opportunities for career progression even in the specialised area of science and technology. This makes the career path longer term, allowing scientists and engineers to accumulate experience in the sensitivities of what the Home Team requires. The career options can also be widened as there would be, quite possibly, more opportunities for transfers within the agency to related but different teams. This would allow people to learn new skills, and apply old skills in new ways, while still utilising and increasing their experience in the Home Team. Just as the career path is lengthened and widened, so also is the incentive for the Home Team to invest in and develop its scientists and engineers, further enabling Singapore to benefit from cutting-edge technology in its home affairs. This could also incentivise students to read applied science and engineering which are important in an age of information and technology. Thirdly, it creates a centralised location where Home Team agencies can source for solutions. Instead of needing to hunt for research and technology partners with expertise in the area of research they are looking at for a solution, they are able to approach a single connecting point which will then be able to connect the most appropriate team to work on a solution to meet that need. And it could be a very pressing need and time-sensitive. Further, while the concentration, consolidation and collaboration of science and technology teams in the various Home Team agencies bode well for the development of science and technology, I would like to ask the Minister what steps will be taken to ensure that technologists will continue to have the opportunity to work closely with ground officers to understand operational needs and requirements.”
“As terror attacks could be high tech, for example, through the use of commercial drones, or low tech, for example, through a vehicle-ramming incident or a knife attack, a wide variety of technology and science is needed to detect, prevent and counter terror attacks. The factual matrix in any given attack situation is hardly ever the same. While this agency is well-situated to solve the challenges and needs we see today, the agency would also ready our Home Team for the future. HTX will be at the forefront of technological and scientific developments. Some people say that criminals are two steps ahead and the authorities only play catch-up. This agency that we are debating today, endeavours to prevent that situation. While it is grounded in the present, it also looks to the future. How? By consolidating the Home Team’s related science and technology into a centralised location. Instead of individual projects scattered across different private and Government partners to address different Home Team agency’s needs, this Bill creates a Statutory Board which consolidates this expertise into one place, both in terms of people as well as location, or virtual location. Firstly, this allows for the concentration of the Team’s talents. There can be deep collaboration over teams with overlapping science and technology expertise, overcoming the silo effect by bridging the space gap or the virtual space gap. Because iron sharpens iron, the galvanising environment will spur the individuals, officers and various groups working there to create even better ideas and possible solutions. Secondly, the career path in Home Team-related science and technology development can be longer and wider.”
“4% from 2017 to 2018, numbering 2,125 cases in 2018, through which $1.9 million had been committed. Seventy percent of these e-commerce crimes happened on the popular e-commerce platform Carousell. Some of the unique challenges cybercrime pose to Police investigations around the world are the transnational nature of cybercrime, anonymity through Virtual Private Network or other anonymous proxy services, and availability of “cybercrime as a service” which allows less tech savvy persons to hire persons with high expertise knowledge and specialised tools and services to commit cybercrime on their behalf. This shows that investing in science and technology to keep up with and outpace cybercriminals is necessary to ensure deterrence and rule of law in a world where an increasing number of transactions and communications are happening online. Photos and videos can be doctored or fabricated almost indiscernibly. Evidence can be fabricated and alibis can be falsified. Fake news can be masqueraded as true and authoritative. As deepfake technology speeds ahead, technology that detects deepfakes often plays catch-up. Therefore, investment in forensic technology is necessary to keep up with technological advancements to prevent them from being used for malicious ends. Atrocious child pornography syndicates and terror cells organise themselves online, making it harder to detect their activities. While there is legislation that provides for powers to confiscate and access electronic devices, there will be situations where the Police will need to crack into the device without the password given to them. Investment in technology and careful application of it are, therefore, important to administer justice, prevent recurrence and dismantle syndicates.”
“Last year, there were 212 million travellers and this is projected to increase by 40% by 2025. In order for Singapore to continue being a popular tourist destination and hub for international travel, it is important that the immigration clearance system be both fast and effective. With increasing use of online shopping, the number of parcels being sent to and from other countries as well as within Singapore has increased exponentially. Last year, there were 10 million consignments, containers and parcels. This is likely to increase by 70% by 2025. In order to screen for illicit drugs, guns and other dangerous and prohibited items, it is important that the Home Team's capabilities are built up. Last year, the number of contraband cases detected at the checkpoints hit the highest annual figure recorded, averaging 300 cases per day. On 29 June this year, ICA detected 20 items suspected to be gun parts in a parcel marked "merchandise". So, the threat is real. Although manpower coupled with machinery is a possible solution, the more sustainable and feasible way is through technology working in partnership with the excellent ICA officers and the Home Team officers that we have today. Both their commitment, dedication, ability as people and officers, coupled with technology, I think that is the way for it, and that is exactly what we are wanting to do today. Crime committed through the use of technology is increasing. The number of cases under the Computer Misuse Act increased by 40% from 2017 to 2018, from 858 cases to 1,204 cases. These included unauthorised access or transaction of online accounts, unauthorised purchase using credit or debit cards, and phishing emails. The number of e-commerce scams also increased by 11.”
“Sir, HTX will help to address current challenges in a way that prepares for the future. Firstly, its research in applied sciences enables the Home Team to utilise science and technology to overcome the challenges that are faced. Some examples of what have been done or are being worked on include: (a) smart glasses with video feeds and facial recognition technology to assist Police operations; (b) surveillance cameras in prisons that can detect when a person suddenly collapses or when there is a fight so that the surveillance video cameras do not need to be closely monitored round the clock; and (c) the IDEAS II System used by the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) which analyses data to establish behavioural patterns and crime hotspots. In these ways, technology can help the Home Team work more effectively and efficiently, but the challenges continue. The low total fertility rate, which was 1.16 last year, projects manpower shortage across different sectors. Technology can be used to reduce the need for manpower. For instance, CNB is working on automating the process of registering and administering urine tests and using robots to handle the samples securely, reducing the need for manpower. The new clearance concept is another example. It streamlines the immigration process, allowing Singaporeans to experience a contactless immigration clearance as well as allowing first-time visitors to use automated immigration lanes. This will help the ICA cope with increased travel while keeping the time needed to clear immigration low. This is especially important, given that the number of travellers transiting through and travelling to and from Singapore has increased drastically over the years.”
“Sir, first, let me say that the staff and volunteers behind the Bicentennial Experience Exhibition at Fort Canning have done an excellent job and, in my view, it is uniquely Singaporean. My questions are, I was hoping it could be extended, so that it can be updated at major milestones of our country's progress, for example, Singapore's 60th birthday in 2025. My second supplementary question is: at the end of the exhibition, people are asked "What is important to you?" and one of the balls you can put in that interactive survey is "self-determination". I would ask that the Ministry consider another type of interactive survey, for example, what should our priorities be, going forward, and what is our future dependent on. So, those who come can either put a ball in for defence, education, unity, international trade and so on. So, let it not just be about what is the past and how we got here but what are the ingredients that we need, going forward, in addition to my request to make it a more permanent exhibition.”
“It involves the people who design the building, the builders and those who install fire safety devices, those who distribute and manufacture the fire safety devices, those who provide alarm monitoring services, tenants who place items in the passageway or engage in activities that potentially create an unreasonable fire hazard. In all, because no man is an island, I hope that we live together responsibly in our island city, working hand in hand to minimise fire hazards. Therefore, Sir, I support the Bill.”
“In Jalan Buroh, on 21 June, the SCDF battled for about six hours a fire the size of two football fields, involving an unprecedented number of highly flammable liquified petroleum gas cylinders, fighting hard to contain and to put it out. In Woodlands, on 9 April, SCDF officers forced entry into a unit, rescued a woman, a teenager and two children trapped in the kitchen area, evacuated residents of other flats and put out the raging fire. In the process, one of the SCDF firefighters was injured with burns. In the fire in Ang Mo Kio on 22 July, the SCDF rescued from the burning flat a mother and her young children who were huddled in a room, too afraid to get out after hearing the explosion of the PMD. In the early hours of 18 July in Bukit Batok, SCDF officers in the call of duty wore breathing apparatus, cut through the iron gate, prised open the wooden door, rescuing a man who lay unconscious on the floor and his wife from the burning flat. These are just some examples of the life-saving courageous work that our SCDF officers do. It is not easy, especially when situations do not pan out the way everyone hopes for. Yet, these officers continue to be vigilant day in and day out, night in and night out, ready to put out the next fire, risking limb and possibly life, and saving lives. We appreciate the work that they do. And having worked in the Government Parliamentary Committee (GPC), we understand first-hand the good work that the SCDF officers do. In conclusion, Sir, fire safety is a team effort which is necessary to keep everyone in Singapore safe.”
“That is equivalent to about 73% of the total number of cases last year and more than the total number of such cases in 2017. These fires, at least in residential premises, seem to have increased in severity. Thirty-one people were injured in 36 fires versus 11 people in 23 fires in the beginning of last year. These numbers do not include the fires in July that were also caused by PABs or PMDs based on investigations or preliminary investigations: 3 July in Tampines; 9 July in Upper Boon Keng Road; 14 July in Yishun; 18 July in Bukit Batok which cost someone’s life; 22 July in Ang Mo Kio where three units were destroyed; 27 July, again in Boon Lay Drive. About six fires were reported in the media as of 28 July. The numbers seemed to have increased at a significant rate but, unlike chute fires which are the highest cause of fire, fires caused by PMDs are not easily fought by a layman. These fires caused by PMDs often need firefighting resources and have robbed many a family of their home, property, pets and even a loved one. The potential numbers are astronomical. There were more than 85,000 electric scooters registered at the end of June. Some of these do not meet the UL-2272 certification requirement. They are like possibly ticking time bombs, unpredictable as to when and where the next fire will happen. Would the Ministry consider working closely with the Ministry of Transport (MOT) to hasten the timeframe by which all PMDs must meet the fire safety requirement? At this juncture, I want to take this opportunity to put on record the stellar work of the SCDF officers.”