Denise Phua Lay Peng
Singapore
“Sir, as Singapore ages, disability and ageing will increasingly overlap. The line between disability services and elder care services will blur. Many adults with disabilities face similar challenges as seniors in varying degrees, but at a younger age.”
“But the SPED schools are run by a lot of the other professionals as well such as occupational therapists, speech pathologists, psychologists, coaches and so forth. And I ask for MOE, as it always looks at SPED educators, to also focus on this other very important group; because retention is capacity.”
“Are there other strategies that the Prime Minister will consider, like easier adoption procedures to have more people adopt, more of us Singaporeans adopting? The second is, in terms of immigration as well, to bring in people who are of the right profile and suitable profile to grow our Singaporean population?”
“Enterprise grants should include accessibility compliance requirements. Inclusion cannot rely on goodwill alone. It must be systemically built-in. And finally, move five: on strengthening intermediaries and social service agencies (SSAs). Sir, if AI is to be whole-of-society, then SSAs cannot be left behind.”
“When SSAs become AI-enabled, the most vulnerable of us benefit. In conclusion Sir, Budget 2026 sets an ambitious direction: AI ecosystems, SkillsFuture strengthening, innovation hubs such as Lorong AI and the future AI Park at one-north. Ambition is necessary, but it is execution that determines whether progress is shared.”
“I thank the Minister of State for her assurance, assuring the House that there are indeed alternative identification methods available for those who are unable to use facial recognition. Just a couple of supplementary questions. Number one, are these measures systemic and applicable for all fully digital or not fully digital banks?”
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“Mdm Speaker, I would like to seek Acting Minister's views on whether he would agree that there is a risk for childcare or pre-school education to go the for-profit route, mainly because we know that for-profit organisations are primarily driven by the bottom line. The public has voiced their preference for state-run or hybrid model childcare centres, so that this sector is not purely for-profit. My second clarification is to ask if Acting Minister has heard that there are private operators – some from overseas – who are buying up smaller players here in the pre-school and childcare sector, possibly to monopolise the market to have a bigger footprint, and even to bring the merged organisations to Initial Public Offering (IPO). I am still very concerned that Acting Minister has decided to take the for-profit route for this particular sector.”
“It is truly a moment that we, as a country, must rejoice in. It is a moment, where meritocracy, as one of our cardinal principles, is illuminated – regardless of gender, ethnicity or attire – the best man or woman will be charged with the right job based on his or her own merits and capabilities. With that, Mdm Speaker, may I extend again my heartiest congratulations to you and may you continue to be a source of inspiration for all of us in and Page: 19 out of this House. Thank you. [Applause.]”
“Mdm Speaker is truly the epitome of the true spirit of Singapore, which, irrespective of background, with hard work and dedication, one can achieve beyond his or her wildest dreams. Over your many distinguished years in the labour movement and the public service, you must have been accorded with every adjective there is to give: humble but assertive, extraordinary lady, champion of the underclass, and many other accolades. Mdm Speaker has broken the glass ceiling several times: The first lady to be awarded the Berita Harian Achiever of the Year Award in 2001, the first Singaporean to serve on the International Labour Organization's Board and, now, the first woman again, to be Speaker of the Singapore Parliament. Surely, Mdm Halimah, there is no mountain that she cannot conquer, there is no ocean that she cannot cross. I am confident that there are many other mountains that Mdm Speaker will conquer in the future years. I am confident that Madam's time as the Speaker of Parliament will garner more words of praises and more "firsts", as Mdm Speaker performs her duties with honour and distinction. (In English): Mdm Speaker, allow me to also extend my appreciation to your predecessor, Mr Michael Palmer, for his contribution as Speaker of this House. Although his tenure was short-lived, he did manage the proceedings of the House very well and allowed us to have good debates and make good progress. Mdm Speaker, much lies ahead of us as a country. We have grown and seen many milestones since our independence. Today is, indeed, another milestone in our Singapore story that should be immortalised – when we see the ascension of a Malay girl from a humble family background who went to a Chinese girls' school, to one of the highest offices in the nation.”
“I am sure your years as Speaker will invite many more adjectives, including more "firsts", as you perform your role and carry out your duty with honour and distinction. In the many years I have been privileged to know you, Mdm Speaker, I have always been touched by your sincerity and passion. It seems that the word "tired" is not in your vocabulary. Many have told me that it is hard to keep up with your energy, Mdm Speaker, but I am sure that we will all be energised by you. We look forward to your steady pair of hands in steering the debates in this House with impartiality and to bring this House to greater heights. Mdm Speaker, please allow me to say a few words in Malay. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mdm Speaker, ever since the news of your nomination as the Speaker of Parliament became widespread, the newspapers are filled with only words of accolades and congratulations, that were given to someone who best epitomises the words "Nothing is impossible." The Malay/Muslim community is now excited and overjoyed as well as thankful to Mdm Speaker for successfully, once again, breaking the psychological barrier and ascend to newer heights that were unimaginable before this. Mdm Speaker is not only the icon for the Malay/Muslim community specifically, but also for Singapore in general. Mdm Speaker is an inspiration to many Malay women and men out there. Each worker turns to Mdm Speaker for Page: 18 guidance and motivation. Each mother seeks advice from Mdm Speaker. Each Malay girl has the aspiration to become someone like Mdm Speaker. Our Malay/Muslim community is very proud in seeing how Mdm Speaker has successfully proved that behind that tudung and gentle demeanour lies a reasonable mind, an indomitable spirit and an extraordinary leader.”
“I recall the many personal appeals you would send to MND, HDB and even the CDCs of families needing help with housing and other social assistance – each with your persistent reminder of how much we have to help these families. Your appointment prior to this, as the Minister of State for then MCYS (now MSF), was welcomed news and, with what you have achieved thus far, you will leave behind big shoes to fill. Indeed, your election as Speaker of this House is probably one decision that Singaporeans of all backgrounds and race will unanimously support. The news comes with nothing less than accolades and unending praises – from acknowledging your credentials for the post, to breaking the glass ceiling for women in public office, to bringing yet another proud moment Page: 17 for the Malay/Muslim community. You are, indeed, the epitome of the spirit of a true Singaporean – striving to do your best in whatever you do, never compromising on your core principles of honesty and integrity – and that regardless of background, with hard work and determination, one can succeed beyond one's imagination. Over your many distinguished years in the labour movement and public service, you must have been accorded with every adjective there is to give – humble yet assertive, woman extraordinaire, passionate politician, champion of the underclass, and many more. You have, indeed, broken the glass ceiling many times over – the first woman to be awarded the Berita Harian Achiever of the Year Award (Anugerah Jauhari) in 2001, the first Singaporean to serve on the International Labour Organization Board of Governors, and now, the first woman again, to be the Speaker of the Singapore Parliament.”
“I am sure I have the support of many in this House to register our appreciation for our ex-Speaker, Mr Michael Palmer. [Applause.] Page: 16 With that, let me end off and again extend my warmest congratulations for our new Mdm Speaker Halimah Yacob. It has been a long wait from the day she entered politics in 2001, to the day she is elected to this significant position – more than 10 years. But as ex-British Prime Minister Winston Churchill once said, "Everyone has his day; and some days last longer than others." Kakak Halimah, may your days as the Speaker of this House last a long, long time. Congratulations. [Applause] The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence and Minister for National Development (Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman): Mdm Speaker, first, allow me to join the other Members of the House in extending my heartiest congratulations to you on your election as Speaker of this House. I stand here with much joy and pride, not just because the House has elected the best person for the job, but that the person is a mentor, an inspiration and, above all, a dear friend. We entered this House as Members of Parliament together almost 12 years ago. In your years as a backbencher and a labour Member of Parliament, you had been a voice of reason – one that is gentle but firm in reminding Ministers of how important it is to listen to the people when formulating policies. You are not afraid to call a spade, a spade. In your steadfast and focused approach to advance the cause of workers, women and children and the plight of low-income families, you have gained the respect and admiration of many, both locally and internationally.”
“Borrowing from the words of British Nobel laureate Rudyard Kipling in his poem "If", I hope that you will continue to "talk with crowds and keep your virtue" and "walk with kings, yet not lose the common touch". Walk with kings, yet not lose the common touch. With that, our beloved Mdm Speaker, I pledge to you my utmost support. Madam, before I end off, please allow me to express my appreciation of Mr Michael Palmer, your immediate predecessor. When Michael Palmer was first elected as Speaker, those of us who were used to Speaker profiles who were far older, did not know what to expect of young Mr Palmer. He took over the Speakership at a time when a fair and steady hand was needed even more to manage the dynamics of a House with a mix of PAP Members of Parliament and a total of six elected Opposition Members of Parliament, three Non-Constituency Members of Parliament and nine Nominated Members of Parliament. As time would tell, Mr Palmer quickly learnt the ropes and took to his Speaker duties well. I am sure many in the House would agree that Mr Palmer has discharged his duties as Speaker of the House with professionalism, fairness and confidence. Personally, I was blessed to also serve the disadvantaged with Mr Palmer, outside this House. We briefly co-chaired a Disability Committee set up by Mayor Teo Ser Luck in his District. I recall that Michael was often patient and generous whenever we discussed individual appeals for help. On other occasions, although I have never directly approached him for help in my volunteer work in the charities, he would direct donors to help the needy and disabled I serve. Mr Palmer, indeed, had used his influence to do good.”
“Women who aspire to climb the corporate or political ladder now know that it is not impossible to reach the top, if that is what they wish. Madam, I personally missed your company in the backbench when you were promoted in 2011 to become an office holder. I remember fondly an incident during our backbench days. Through exchange of views and notes across the seats, Member Christopher de Souza, your good self and I made a decision to not vote "yes" to the 2009 Human Organ Transplant Bill when the Whip was lifted. This was primarily due to our discomfort with some of the issues arising from payment to the donor. As a new Member of Parliament, I learnt, from watching you, how an effective backbencher can skillfully prepare and present an argument without being unnecessarily harsh whilst making a stand according to one's conscience. I will miss you now in the social services sector as you take on your new role as Speaker. In the last one year, you were making your presence felt as Minister of State in the Ministry of Social and Family Development. Thank you for responding both with speed and heart whenever I sought your help for the children and families who needed an extra leg-up in the charities we serve. Please continue to support me with speed and heart and not ignore me when I raise my hand or try to catch your eye for an opportunity to continue to speak up for them in this House. Page: 15 Finally, Madam, a wish for you. I am confident that with your capability and communication talents, your eloquence, you will carry out your duties as Speaker with fairness and dignity. My special wish for you is this – that beneath that power suit that you now don as our Speaker, you will always remain the same Halimah Yacob whom we have all come to like, love and respect.”
“Mdm Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to extend to you my heartiest congratulations on your election as the first female Speaker of the Parliament of Singapore. Since the news of your nomination, many Singaporeans of all races, languages, religions, political affiliations and gender, have shown overwhelming support of you, both online and in traditional media. Your stellar performance in your 30-year career as a legally trained unionist, a parliamentarian and as an office holder has been well covered in the local media. Our Prime Minister, no less, has commended you on the practical and compassionate voice you had brought to his Cabinet. You have commanded the respect of many of your colleagues in the union. Many have no doubt that you will do a fine job as a Speaker, without fear or favour. Those who serve in the social services sector bid you a reluctant farewell – happy that you have been promoted but also confessing that they will miss interacting directly with a passionate and tireless supporter such as you. You have been especially known as a strong advocate for workers, women and the Page: 14 Malay/Muslim community. On the personal front, despite your stellar rise, you have maintained a humble lifestyle of voluntary simplicity, a much aspired lifestyle choice for those who wish to travel lighter in our life journeys. You are, indeed, and truly a national asset. Madam, your election as the first female Speaker of Parliament puts to rest the barrier of a glass ceiling for capable women in our country. With the recent additions of eminent female colleagues, such as Ms Indranee Rajah and Mrs Josephine Teo in the Cabinet, women are now much better represented in our country's senior leadership. As ex-Chinese leader Mao Zedong once said, women hold up half the sky.”
“Sir, I wish to seek clarification from the MTI Minister on the 30-year contract that he mentioned. Is the contract of 30 years for the IR or for the casinos? Is there no provision at all? If it is for 30 years for the casinos, is there no provision at all for Singapore to exit the casino industry until 24 years later? That is my first question. The second one is on annual review. I think the higher the frequency of visits, the higher the exposure to gambling and the higher possibility to perhaps problem gambling as well. I will not consider this annual levy a loophole, as Mr Png says – of course, hindsight is always perfect – so I do not want to blame the Minister for that. But the annual levy provision is actually a "volume discount", so-called, which is quite a typical marketing strategy. In this context, it is really very special because we really do not want to encourage local residents to go visit the casinos. So, I thought that there is still a case to scrap the annual levy. For your consideration, please. Page: 1488”
“Yes. There are various competing casinos coming up, so if that is the setting that we are operating in, will there be a serious option that Singapore can exit from this industry? Thank you for your patience.”
“Sir, I have three clarifications. One, on online gambling, I am heartened that there is a commission that is already commencing supervision on the non-casino operations. I wish to ask Minister – while we are taking the time to study the jurisdictions and enabling this commission to work – can there be some interim measures to, at least, have some semblance of an example of a responsible gaming regime, or even to block such sites, online casino sites, if possible, during this time? That is my first one. The second question is on annual fees – the request on scrapping the annual casino entry levy – if the amount is so small, may I ask the Minister if he would just scrap the annual levy, since the impact is small and the number of people buying such levies is small? The third clarification is the long-term options for Singapore. When the time comes for the current contracts with the casino operators to be negotiated or renewed, or when the time comes for them to be expired, I want to ask Minister on the options that Singapore has. Are the options only limited to terminate and grant a new one, or two, to renew? Is there a third serious option to exit from this industry, or is it a given in our country that casinos are here to stay? I want to remind Minister of comments that he made at the International Association of Gaming Regulators this year that casino operations are becoming complex and crime syndicates are becoming more and more sophisticated. I do believe in everything that he has said in this speech so I want to remind the Minister of that. Second, is also the updated information that there are various competing casinos — Page: 1482”
“Sir, I thank the Minister. I understand that the grants have increased. Pegging the SERS discount formula with the basic CPF grant, that is aligned. I also understand that the additional grants over the years have increased especially to support the objectives of, for example, trying to incentivise people to live closer to their parents or grandparents and to assist the lower income families. These are all very noble and very necessary. But the basic grant has not increased very much over the years and from what I know – and that is why I need a confirmation – that SERS discount formula was last reviewed many years ago, probably 20 years ago. I am not sure. Housing prices, however, have increased many folds since that time. Page: 1461 I wonder if the Minister would still consider looking into the discount formula scheme for the SERS package. If he does look into it and improve it, I wonder if he could implement this improved formula before the Rochor and some other recent SERS projects are confirmed and finalised.”
“Sir, I thank the Minister for the response and I do agree that the SERS package is quite generous and well thought out. I just wanted to get an update on it. Before I ask the other questions, can the Minister first respond to the second part of my PQ, which is, when was the discount formula for the SERS replacement package scheme last reviewed?”
“We must believe that our "can-do" Singapore spirit can lead us to develop our own brand of leisure entertainment products, theme park, Universal Studio, even better than that, but without casinos in tow. Sir, I do not gamble but I was told that the Royal Flush in poker is ranked as the highest hand in the game of poker. It occurs when a player has an ace, a king, a queen, a jack and a ten of the same suit. If you are lucky enough to get a Royal Flush, then you should be sure to bet the entire pot because you will undoubtedly win the pot with the hand. But I was also told that one's best chance to get a Royal Flush in a casino is in the toilet. Sir, when we reach the expiry timeline of whether to renew or grant new casino licences in Singapore, let us remember this − that the chances of a holistic win – economic, social, moral – for Singapore in this casino business are as good as that of getting the Royal Flush. We should, therefore, work towards exiting from the casino industry. With that hope in mind, I support the Casino Control (Amendment) Bill. Page: 1388 4.06 pm”
“There is an urgency for the whole of Singapore, Government and the rest of Singapore, to hone our ability to arrest this fast growing global trend of online gambling, before it is too late. In conclusion, Sir, at the opening of the 2012 International Association of Gaming Regulation, Ministry of Trade and Industry Minister Iswaran said that "the risks (of casinos) will become more complex. Globalisation has led to an increase in transnational crime. Crime syndicates are getting more sophisticated. They use modern business techniques. They also leverage advanced information and communication technology to network with other syndicates, avoid detection by law enforcement agencies or render their illegal activities untraceable." Such is the name of the game. Sir, the evaluation of the IR-casino strategy should not be made based on pure economic returns anymore. It was with good intent at the time when this strategy was embarked upon in 2005, 2006 and, yes, we should stop questioning the decision made back then. But we have new knowledge and experiences now. Hindsight vision is, of course, always perfect; but now that we see better, we must do better. Indian political activist Mahatma Gandhi said, "Life is one indivisible whole." One cannot expect to do well in one compartment while not doing well in another, an equal system. We must wean ourselves from such a controversial and worrisome economic strategy. We will never match the sophistication expertise of the smooth casino operators and, at best, can only play catch-up to address the industry's ill effects. Singapore must resolve to engage experts and other fellow innovative Singaporeans to help imagine, create future tourism products that are less controversial and more wholesome.”
“I also urge the Government to divert resources to hone our expertise in dealing with an up and coming trend in gambling, that is, online gambling. Online gambling is one of the fastest growing preferred gambling modes amongst the young and educated, and especially alarming in a nation as wired as Singapore. One needs only to access http://www.onlinecasinos.com.sg/ to be exposed to some of the most compelling advertisements on why one should gamble online. Let me show you what it looks like. Let me read to you some of what it says: "Play at one of the most popular online casinos in Singapore! There are hundreds of online casinos in Singapore to choose from, but few that will offer you as many benefits for playing with them as we do! [The advertisement says.] Online casinos have become one of the most popular pastimes of our generation, so why not spend your time [It tells the reader] and money at an online casino in Singapore that gives you more value for your dollar? [The editorial continues] All of our games, ranging from slots, blackjack, roulette and more are developed and designed by expert industry professionals skilled in online casino gaming software. Players can choose between either downloading our casino software to their Desktops or play our games online in browser wherever they are." Page: 1387 This is what was said in the editorial. The public website then goes on to entice readers with its easy sign ups, welcome offers to new players, loyalty credits, 24/7 multilingual customer support and unlimited free game play. No mention of responsible gambling, whatsoever. So, we need to extend our safeguards and regulatory measures on online gambling and online casinos as well.”
“Second, on tighter social safeguards. Sir, I welcome the changes such as allowing the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and families to apply for casino visit limits of financially vulnerable people; enhancing NCPG's power to issue casino exclusion orders in justified cases; and the call for casino operators to install more comprehensive and visible Responsible Gambling programmes. These changes strengthen the social safeguards against the vulnerable who do harm not only to themselves but also to their families and friends. And I know, being part of the Government Parliamentary Committee (GPC) for MCYS or MSF, how sincerely and diligently the MSF Minister Chan Chun Sing and his team are, in carrying out this duty of installing further safeguards. But I have one concern. Page: 1386 Sir, these provisions leave out local residents who are currently not defined as being vulnerable but nonetheless are at risk of becoming financially vulnerable. I recall a resident of mine, an owner of a 3-room HDB flat, asking me several times to make an appeal on his behalf to ask the Government to scrap the annual casino entry levy. He had succumbed to the glitter of gambling, wanted to make full use of the annual levy he purchased, and lost a lot of money at the casinos. It is also this other group, comprising foreigners who hold work permits, the low-income group, who may enter the casino to gamble even without having to pay an entry levy. In this regard, I once again appeal to the Government to (a) scrap the annual casino entry fee option; (b) increase the per-entry charges; and (c) to find a way to disallow foreign workers on work permits to partake in casino activities. Third, on online gambling.”
“This Panel is tasked specifically to ensure that the IR operators continue to develop, maintain and promote the IRs as compelling tourist destinations. But, Sir, as my colleague, Mr Seah Kian Peng, has mentioned, Singapore's IRs are no ordinary tourism products due to their casino gambling component. Our two casinos are located within a small geography in which any criminal and social ills can take root easily. Even as the proponents of the casinos sang praises about how thousands of jobs are created, one does not need to look far to know that the IRs' Human Resource gains are causing stress on the eco-system, leading to the loss of manpower in, for example, other F&B, hospitality and even the cleaning industries. Because of the multiple impact on society at large, the traditional decision-making model for granting new or renewing existing casino licences needs to be updated. The new section 45 should provide for an Evaluation Panel that is one level higher than that proposed. The Panel should not be under the prerogative of the Ministry of Trade and Industry and individual industry and evaluated based on the KPI of whether the IR, including casino, is still a compelling tourist destination only. The Panel should be an inter-Ministerial one appointed by the Prime Minister's Office and a final decision by the Panel must take into consideration of not just jobs created − the economic aspects − but also an assessment of the degree of transfer of learning for our own economic sustainability; the diversion of manpower to this industry; and the impact on law and order and social resilience. The Evaluation Panel must be open to challenging the given assumption that casinos are here to stay, and the assumption that the decision is only limited to granting or renewing licences.”
“Sir, in early 2011, in this House, I cautioned against the potential addiction to easy casino tax revenue and warned that all that glitter is not gold. Then I urged the Government to consider taking the narrower but more sustainable growth path of developing and operating our very own tourism products, MICE industry products, and so forth. And I asked then if there were plans to reduce the casinos to one or none in the future. Back then, the responses to my questions sounded as though the casinos were here to stay − a done deal − and there was nothing we could do except for the then MCYS to tighten the social safeguards to lessen the social ills. Sir, my uneasiness about permitting the casino operations in Singapore remains till this day. Singapore is fast becoming a top gaming destination. Revenue generated from the casino industry is seductive but the industry comes with proven social and security ills. In addition, the more successful casino operations appear, the greater the temptation and the opportunity cost to not focus on other more sustainable, value-adding economic ventures. Page: 1385 This uneasiness was slightly relieved as I study the latest Casino Control (Amendment) Bill. I am grateful that four Ministries, no less, have now taken tangible steps to address the social, economic and security aspects of casino operations in Singapore. Sir, I support the Bill, but would like to provide inputs on three specific areas: one, on the Evaluation Panel; two, on social safeguards; and three, on online gambling. First, on the Evaluation Panel. Sir, one of the most prominent amendments, the new section 45 in clause 10 of the Bill is to add an Evaluation Panel appointed by MTI when granting new or renewing casino licences.”
“Sir, I thank the Minister of State for the reply. As HDB flats become smaller, there are quite a lot of requests from residents and new home-buyers who ask for a re-look at this policy and practice as every square footage becomes very precious real estate. Currently, bomb shelters are used primarily as store rooms for many of the residents. In fact, this does not really align with the objective of the Civil Defence Shelter Act that was just quoted. I was wondering if MND could consider taking the no-wrong-door policy and work with the Ministry in charge of Civil Defence to see if this practice can be re-examined and re-studied, and whether other alternatives could better address the need for Civil Defence, due to the request by many home-buyers for better use of this space.”
“Many of them, those with mild to severe disabilities, can be sorely lacking in knowledge in this area and are often at risk – either of being sexually abused, whether they are sterilized or not, or to be themselves sexually abusive to others because of the lack of effective education. In many instances, many of their families themselves are helpless, receiving different advice, sometimes contradicting, and not knowing how to help their children. They run the risk of thinking that sexual sterilization is the ultimate that will get them out of their fear and challenges. This is a grave matter of concern that has been brought up by both educators and families of persons with special needs who are young or older. The need for sexuality education, counselling and even dealing with law enforcement agencies cannot be just left only to volunteers and disability organisations. There is a strong need for Government agencies, such as the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and MCYS, to rein in and provide resources to bring in more expertise and effective solutions to support the other helping hands. In summary, Sir, I support the Bill in principle and find it a vast improvement. However, I look forward to Ministry's favourable responses to my inputs on this Bill. 4.33 pm”
“They can be individuals who are mildly intellectually disabled; or persons with no intellectual disability but have other disorders such as high-functioning autism or attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders which may affect their decision-making abilities without help or support. For persons of such profiles, I ask for additional measures to help them arrive at the decision of whether or not to be sterilized, even if they are above 18 years of age. I urge that such persons, through either subsidiary legislations or codes of practices, undergo compulsory counselling by relevant professionals, such as a medical professional with relevant knowledge; a non-medical professional, such as a Family Service Centre (FSC) Counsellor and a relevant disability expert. Extra efforts must be taken to counsel these persons in a way that can be understood by them so that they are aware of other methods of contraception that are less invasive and less permanent; so that they know the consequences of sexual sterilization and so that they can truly make decisions in their own best interests. Page: 995 Finally, Sir, I am pleased that a court order must be obtained before the sterilization of persons who lack mental capacity, in particular persons with moderate to severe disabilities. This effectively ensures that significant decisions of such nature are made with two keys – one held by the person's family member and the other by an independent party convinced that such treatment is necessary and in the best interests of that person. However, I urge that more professional expertise and focus be allocated upstream to ensure more effective sexuality education for the vulnerable in our country.”
“I urge that before any treatment for sexual sterilization is carried out on a person below the age of 18, that there be approval from a Committee comprising at least (1) an independent medical practitioner with relevant knowledge; (2) a non-medical professional, such as a Family Service Centre Counsellor or a Senior Medical Social Worker; and (3) an officer from a relevant Government agency, such as the MCYS. The Committee should be given the authority to approve or disapprove the application for sexual sterilization of the minor. The Committee shall consider the reasons for which the application is made; convince themselves that there are no other less restrictive and less permanent options; and that the final decision to sterilize is indeed in the best interests of the minor affected. Next, on persons who technically are not lacking in mental capacity but need support. Sir, the other group for whom I would like to speak up is the group of persons with special needs who may not be technically defined as lacking in mental capacity under the Mental Capacity Act (MCA). Under the MCA, only a person who cannot understand, who cannot remember, who cannot weigh up the information and who cannot communicate a decision is deemed to be lacking in mental capacity. Sir, people with special needs fall upon a spectrum − from mild to moderate to severe. There are men and women who may fall through the cracks. These are persons who are legally categorised as mentally competent, but many of us know that they will still be vulnerable if left to make decisions on their own regarding permanent and irreversible ones such as sexual sterilization.”
“The shape of public consultations to come must indeed bear the desired characteristics of being genuinely open to inputs; graciously acknowledging and crediting inputs received and/or applied; and proactively seeking views of the public and, especially, relevant stakeholder groups through longer periods of public consultation. Sir, I would like to raise three key areas for which I hope to receive favourable consideration from the Minister. The first concerns persons below the age of 21. Sir, the Bill provides that a registered medical practitioner can carry out sexual sterilization on any person below 21 under two circumstances: Page: 994 (1) If the person below 21 is married and consents himself/herself to the sterilization; and (2) If the person below 21 is not married and together with at least one parent or guardian consent to the procedure. Sir, I would like to remind the Ministry that the definition of someone "below the age of 21" effectively means "any age from birth to below 21" – five, six, seven, 11, 12, 13. So, I find it onerous on a young person aged, for instance, 15 years old to partake in a life decision that is as invasive as sexual sterilization; a decision that is permanent, irreversible, to the extent that it will impair his or her ability to have children for the rest of his or her life. Sir, I therefore urge that the Act be aligned with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child which defines a child as, I quote, "a human being below the age of 18 years old" and to provide further safeguards for persons below 18.”
“Sir, I thank the Ministry for its efforts to update the Voluntary Sterilization Act (VSA), an Act which is four decades old. The intent to align the Act with the principles underlying the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and also the Mental Capacity Act to protect the more vulnerable is especially commendable. I am also appreciative that a public consultation was also sought. However, the consultation period was from 4 June 2012 to 2 July 2012, barely less than a month. Not only was the duration itself short, but it was also during the school holidays when many professionals and parents supervising special needs persons were not available. This limited the extent to which more inputs could have been gathered on a subject matter that is as invasive and permanent as sexual sterilization. For future legislations of such nature which involve irreversible and ethical dimensions, I urge Government to seriously consider extending the periods of public consultation to allow for more proactive and deeper consultation of stakeholder groups such as families, advocacy groups, medical professionals and, in this case, even persons directly affected. Nonetheless, I am very pleased that the Ministry has seriously taken the inputs of advocates, such as AWARE and others, and made a significant improvement for persons lacking in mental capacity. For this group, the Ministry has instituted a requirement for a Court Order before the sterilization of a person lacking in mental capacity in the final version of this Bill that is presented today.”
“Sir, I thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the comprehensive answer. I agree with everything said, and I have to thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for always being very supportive to the children with special needs. I had the opportunity in recent years to come face to face with "live" good private tutors and lecturers, for example in subjects in General Paper (GP). They are private tutors with big followings of pre-university students. I also saw good online lectures available overseas and locally. Open Lectures is one of them; Khan Academy is another one of them; and also, all the Ivy League Universities. Considering that Singapore is one of the most wired nations in the world, I think there is great opportunity for online teaching and learning resources to be made available, not just to teachers but also to students and their families. I would like to ask the Senior Parliamentary Secretary if MOE could consider conducting a full study on how ICT can be harnessed even further to make more accessible good online lectures and resources so that those who cannot and do not want to pay hefty tuition fees could have access to and benefit from these, and so that there is a more level playing field.”
“Sir, I thank the Minister. I fully support his direction. I appreciate that. The food centre cleaner jobs are, like the Minister said, often shunned by locals and, in fact, often staffed by the elderly who are mostly unskilled and who have no other options for work. Therefore, installing facilities for the patrons to return their used utensils would, indeed, be very important. I have seen it happened successfully in organisations like IKEA and some more progressive companies at their staff canteens. I do strongly believe that it needs to be done. Since it reduces the hardship of, especially, the elderly cleaners and it does encourage co-ownership of maintaining a clean and pleasant environment for both the patrons and the public, I would like to ask if Minister could accelerate and be more aggressive in the installation of these facilities, especially for the current upgrading of existing food centres/hawker centres and, for the new ones as well.”
“Sir, I thank the Minister for the supportive response. I am very glad that MCYS and Government are open to include non-SPED graduates in the Employment Credit Scheme. I would just like to know – instead of leaving it as an open request – is it possible for Government to formally include non-SPED graduates, as long as they have diagnosis and all the support of disability organisations to prove that they do need that support, can we formally include them in the Employment Credit Scheme? And, if so, when can that be done?”
“Sir, in this regard, I believe we can borrow some best practices from Japan where many helping hands work together in the country to operate Job Centres for the elderly and the disabled. The mission of the Japan Organisation for Employment of the Elderly and Persons with Disabilities (JEED) is this: to create a "Society for All" in which everyone has a chance to contribute through work. A full system of services to identify, train and support both the employers and their employees had been set up. I do not think nor advise that this full system from Japan be adopted in Singapore as it is funded by a personal income tax regime that is much higher than Singapore's. However, I believe MOM, the union and the VWOs can all join forces to extract the practical and good practices – and ensure a higher and more meaningful participation of Singapore’s elderly and the disabled in the workforce. With this, Sir, I thank the Manpower Minister and his team for their diligent and excellent work in steering Singapore’s workforce ably in the last economic downturn. I look forward to his facilitation to help Singapore develop a 21st century workforce which is relevant, resilient and inclusive. Continuing Education and Training”
“True economic security lies not in our current job or wealth, but in our ability to produce wealth. This ability to produce wealth can only start by first taking ownership, having a good Government and an employer are additional blessings. I feel strongly, therefore, Sir, that this mindset must be inculcated more seriously in the Singapore workforce. I ask MOM to include this in a 21st Century Skills Framework which, I hope, it will develop. Next, Sir, on the workforce of the future, including the elderly and the disabled. In an increasingly globalised world and a domestic setting where a limit on foreign labour is now a standard feature, Singapore must tap on any local citizen who can potentially join our workforce. We should assume that there is no expendable manpower and maximise the potential of every adult Singaporean. I believe that the workforce of the future is an inclusive one – for economic, social and political reasons. For sustained economic growth, we need to increase the size of the workforce to support the strategies of the ESC. Beyond economics, work is dignity and offers the opportunity for people to lead more fulfilling lives. There are social and political costs to pay when segments of people are excluded from work, especially not by their own choice. I therefore seek MOM to work actively with the many helping hands like the unions and voluntary welfare organisations to maximise the participation of, one, the elderly and, two, the disabled Singaporeans who are less educated or skilled. I have observed from my work on the ground that work agencies have been fairly unimaginative when trying to place lower-educated elderly and/or disabled into jobs. Most of the jobs found for these groups are cleaner or security guard jobs.”
“Many in the workforce kept their jobs due to state interventions such as the Job Credits Scheme and the subsidised SPUR training courses. Before we knew it, the economy has recovered and full employment is back or almost full. Sir, I worry if our workers and PMETs have emerged stronger and if they are ready for the next economic downturn. Would we develop what is called "learned helplessness" – a term that is often used in the disability sector – expecting that the Government will definitely step in to do the same rescue work everytime? I ask this because I was at a discussion on upgrading Singapore’s workforce for the future and someone asked if the Government can help ensure that workers or PMETs who attend training are guaranteed salary increases and/or promotions. Sir, as a young officer in the private sector many years ago, I was taught that when I attend training, I was not doing a favour to my employer but the knowledge that I acquired would become my personal asset and training is one way to update my skills and to keep my current job. As a HR consultant in the private sector during my younger days, again, I had to counsel PMETs, including senior managers, some with young children, young families, who found themselves retrenched. Many could not find jobs because they never expected to be obsolete or replaced by equally capable, if not more capable, younger and lower-cost colleagues. It was very heartbreaking counselling them. Sir, the mindset of taking charge of one’s career development, whilst seizing resources offered by one’s employer and one's government – this mindset of taking ownership of one's career is key to survival in the 21st century economy.”
“Sir, it has been said that the work of the future will be increasingly bipolar with jobs sorting out into two clusters: (i) Lower-skilled routine work for the less educated; and (ii) A higher-skilled cluster which requires not just technical expertise but also critical thinking and problem solving skills. In this higher-skilled cluster, those who possess stronger people skills such as collaboration and clear communication will command even higher wages. A global education movement, often called the "21st Century Skills" movement, is helping move schools to design learning that prepare students for success in the future. Countries like the United States, United Kingdom and Singapore are participants of this movement. Sir, I urge MOM to similarly look into identifying and communicating a set of "21st Century Mindsets and Skills" to ensure a 21st century workforce in Singapore that is relevant. One of the most important 21st Century mindsets, I feel, is for every Singaporean in the workforce to take ownership of one’s career. This is especially so for the PMETs and senior workers. Sir, I recently heard of an engineer who lost his job because his company which serviced film-processing machines became obsolete due to the advent of digital cameras. When asked why he did not upgrade himself while he was an engineer, he said he had no time and he was not the "studying kind". He then became an unhappy taxi driver, working long hours and complaining about his less than perfect passengers. When asked again why he did not do anything to get out of the situation, he remarked once again that he was too busy driving the taxi. He remains today – an unhappy taxi driver. Sir, Singapore emerged from the last economic downturn almost unscathed.”
“However, for me, I think that if families still desire to keep on looking after their disabled adults at home, the Ministry should look at ways to support these measures, so that if families, siblings or relatives who want to keep the disabled adults at home, they can be given some home-based help and support. This was also brought up by Dr Lam and other MPs before in this House.”
“Sir, I am very happy with the good news that Singapore will be a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities next year. For two years, a group of law undergraduates from the Pro Bono Law Society have been working with me and studied with me the disability legislations of many countries – in Asia, US and different developed countries. We found that in some countries, particularly those in Asia, for example, the legislations are very comprehensive but they do not translate into a lot of programmes and services. It is good that we are thinking of signing the UN Convention now and not earlier because, at least, now we have the substance. My point is to ask MCYS to continue to work on the substance. I think we should worry more about the substance than the form. 3.00 pm My second point for clarification is this: while I am very happy with the increase in the number of early intervention centres that the Minister spoke about, I just want a confirmation from the Minister that MCYS will conduct its due diligence when it starts these centres to make sure that, besides compassion, there is also competence and commitment that there are outcomes so that the children are helped and not harmed in the process. The third point is on adult homes. I am also very happy that MCYS is looking into that. I differ a little from Dr Lee Wei Ling's view. She does not want to burden the family very much, including siblings, and would like the disabled adults to be put in homes. As such, it is her good intent to ask for more homes.”
“Such a need makes this an ideal project to qualify for the Productivity and Innovation Grant funded by the National Budget. Finally, Sir, I want to thank the Minister and his team for the good work done in the last five years and I look forward to his consideration for the gaps that I have mentioned. People with disabilities Assoc. Prof. Fatimah Lateef (Marine Parade): Mr Chairman, Sir, the world has moved on from defining disability as a medical condition. Since 2002, WHO has stated that any decrement in health resulting in any form of disability is now a universal human experience and not just a medical experience. The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities includes respect for the inherent dignity, autonomy, independence of persons, non-discrimination and full and active participation in society. Singapore has introduced the Enabling Masterplan 2007 to 2011 and it is due for review. It takes a slightly different stand, attributing limitations to an individual's ability to function in society as being due to medically-determined impairments rather than the way the built-up environment is designed and organised. This is the way it has come across to the public. It certainly needs review. Does MCYS have new initiatives and policies planned to help with the integration and mainstreaming of persons with disability and will we see Singapore become a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities? People with special needs”
“However, the Government norm cost is only about $750 and subsidy is means-tested. Sir, while I agree that it will be impossible for Government to foot 100% of all social services, I think a regular review of the cost and support for more labour-intensive services should be conducted if these services are important and outsourced to other Helping Hands; (v) On sports and inclusion. I believe that MCYS can also orchestrate more inclusion in the area of sports. Recently, ex-NMP Jessie Phua graciously agreed with me to broker a collaboration pact between the Bowling Association for the Disabled and the mainstream Singapore Bowling Association. As a result of these inclusion efforts, the disabled bowlers can now leverage on expertise and activities in SBA. It was inspiring for both the disabled and the non-disabled, and made Sports for All a reality, in this case. Lastly, on productivity and innovation, the mantra in recent Budgets. Sir, I strongly feel that the People Sector must hop on the bus of our country's productivity movement. There are many useful toolkits, resources and funding programmes which are applicable even to charities, special schools, homes and centres. For example, how many leaders and staff in the People Sector have studied the very useful Productivity Calculators that SPRING has developed? There are some areas in the social services sector that calls for better mapping and study. One key area, for example, is the integration of the numerous help schemes for the chronic low-wage families to avoid cases of over- and under-serving. Sir, even Mayors and Family Service Centres who are the administrators of these schemes have voiced the need for a more efficient and effective safety net.”
“Next, Sir, as the Master Plan is due for renewal, I would like to ask the Minister to consider addressing the following gaps in the next phase: (i) Expedite basic health insurance coverage for those born with congenital diseases; and influence top insurers in the private sector to offer optional enhanced plans for those who seek more coverage; (ii) Extend Foreign Domestic Worker Levy (FDW) Concession for children with disabilities who are older than 12 years old. The levy concession currently applies to children under the age of 12 and the elderly above 65. The current policy assumes that the said disability miraculously disappears after age 12 and re-surfaces after age 65. I hope that the Minister will look into this; (iii) Study the daily challenges faced by major disability groups, especially those who are poor. Expand the scope of funds, such as the Special Assistance Fund, to include, for example, interpretation services for the deaf in their pursuit of work or education. I recently held a 3-hour meeting with a young adult who is deaf. Because I do not sign, he had to come with his sign language interpreter in tow, the services of whom were charged to us at an hourly rate. That evening, this young man shared with me how he had to personally fork out $6,000 worth of interpretation fees as he pursues his ACCA accounting studies; (iv) Increase the Norm Costs for Day Activity Centres which cater to moderately to severely disabled adults. Last year, my volunteers and I were approached to support a Day Activity Centre for such a group. The team tried all means to work out the financial model, using HDB void decks and a mixture of both local and foreign staff. We arrived at a cost of about $1,500 per client per month for a very prudent service model.”
“Sir, I want to thank the MCYS Minister, his team and especially National Council of Social Services for having put focus on and adding much value to the disability community. Through the current Enabling Master Plan for the Disabled, which is due for renewal, many important initiatives were started. These include the non means-tested Fixed Subsidy of $300 per month for every Singaporean child undergoing early intervention; Special Needs Trust company; regular caregiver trainings; and many others. Sir, many people in the community, including the disabled and their families, are not aware of what the Enabling Master Plan is. Other than what is posted on the MCYS website when the Plan was first launched and direct updates by NCSS to the charities involved, there is little information to the disabled and the public on the good work done, the challenges and what is next in the pipeline. This has led to the perception that either nothing has been done or repeated appeals for solutions that may not be relevant. Sir, I urge MCYS to update a wider audience on a more regular basis in multiple channels so that all stakeholders are equally aware of the terrain, and they can contribute to scaling the next height together. Sir, setting up a National Office for Disability was a key recommendation I made in the plan. As I understand, this Office currently comprises mostly senior civil servants from the different Ministries and some agencies like the NCSS. What it stands for, what it does and how it engages the disabled, the families and the VWOs on the ground, are a well-kept secret. I seek more communication and engagement by this National Office through regular and outreach channels.”
“Madam, I like to seek clarification from the Minister. I asked the Minister what kind of changes that MOE needs to make to the future workforce, quoting developments like the strong reliance on tuition, students who speak digital as first language, and the need to build more resilience in our young who are inflicted by higher tendency of mental illnesses or have mental health problems like eating disorders and depression. One of the Minister's comments was that MOE will do more of the same. I am also looking at the hiring trend and HR practices. It appears that MOE is adopting the strategy of hiring more staff, giving more pay and more benefits. I wonder how this kind of strategy impacts other factors like the people factor, the other Ministries, for example, and even the SMEs who are competing for the same graduates, noting that MOE actually hires one out of every eight graduates now. I just want the Minister's comments on that.”
“Sir, I ask MOE to allow and fund even these lower-functioning students to continue schooling till age 21 so that the school has more time to prepare them for adulthood. Sir, in my work with special-needs students of all abilities, I find a group of them, usually about 5%, with high needs, for example, behavioural challenges, and they require higher than normal teacher-student ratio. Some of them are cause for disruptions in classes and even lead to resignations of teachers and face a longer waitlist. Sir, I ask for more support for this small group of students so that they can continue to stay on in school and teacher turnover can be reduced. Sir, finally, at the macro level, the Ministry has ably crafted the 21st Century Competencies Framework for students in the mainstream schools. But what are the 21st century skills and attributes required of teachers and leaders who will guide these students? What kind of changes does MOE need to make in future education workforce, taking into account the strong reliance on tuition to supplement its work; students who speak digital as their first language and the need to build more resilience in our young who are afflicted by an upward trend of mental health problems such as depression and eating disorders? I thank the MOE for the great work done and I look forward to their help to plug these gaps that I have observed.”
“Let the hearing-impaired and the visually impaired students of these two small special schools integrate, physically and socially, in a mainstream school setting. Next, I would also urge MOE to continue to provide more structured support for services for special-needs students in post-secondary tertiary institutions like the ITE, polytechnics and universities. Sim Zi Ling, a top Raffles Institution alumnus who works with me, returned after obtaining her degree at UC Berkeley. Zi Ling shared how impressed she was by the college-based Disabled Students' Programme (DSP) at Berkeley. When students are determined to have disabilities impairing educational access, DSP specialists plan a programme of services with them, ranging from buddy note-takers, sign language interpreters, Braille textbooks and the like. To be fair, I have heard of very good and kind teachers in ITE West who are very accommodating to special-needs students. However, in the micro level, support is neither consistent, systemic nor hard-coded for sustainability. MOE has done very well in support for special-needs students at primary and secondary schools. Why deprive the students when they move on to the tertiary level? Next, doing more for lower-functioning students in special schools. Sir, I recall with mixed feelings when I attended the 2010 graduation ceremony of students at the Delta Senior School. Some 40 graduates, whose education was funded by MOE till age 21, received WSQ certification and found jobs. However, I notice at the sideline another batch of younger graduates who had to leave school younger at age 18 because they are slower, and do not qualify for WSQ certification. They have to exit school even if they are not ready into a bleak future.”
“Sir, last Friday's Straits Times carried a plea for a third mainstream school partner by Pathlight School, a special school that I run. With MOE's help in the past, Pathlight sends its secondary school students, intact with teachers and psychologists, to study in classes in its gracious mainstream neighbours, Chong Boon Secondary School and Bishan Park Secondary School. This way, they interact daily with their mainstream peers and are nudged out of their segregated setting to be more prepared for the world outside. It has not been easy for the diligent and gracious MOE HQ officers to identify and coax suitable mainstream schools to accommodate students from special schools in their premises on a daily basis – doing an external community involvement project (CIP) on a special school is a much easier option. Sir, unlike academic value-add or CCA achievements, inclusiveness is not regarded as an important factor when rating the success of mainstream school leaders. I urge MOE to accord more official recognition to schools who take tangible steps to support the disadvantaged, especially the poor and those with special-needs. Next, I also urge MOE to be bolder and make the satellite school model a common feature in education. The School for the Deaf, for instance, has less than 20 students. There is talk for a plan for a new special school to combine the deaf students with the few visually-impaired students from the School for the Blind for efficiency purposes. Instead of doing this, MOE should seriously consider co-locating these students in willing mainstream schools. To lessen any burden on the mainstream host, send in competent VWO expertise to support them.”
“Sir, building inclusive education institutions – every Singaporean, whatever his or her potential or family background, deserves a quality education. While we cannot guarantee equal outcomes in life for everyone, we can and should ensure that everyone has equal access to learning to have their potential maximised. Students from needy backgrounds – Sir, all things being equal, the child with a more affluent family background will surely have more resources and get a better shot at maximising his potential in life. My concern is with children from chronically poor and/or dysfunctional families. My ground experience has convinced me that it is beneficial to keep these children away from their unconducive family environment for most of the day so that they can spend their day more gainfully. I therefore ask MOE to sponsor school-based before and after-school programmes for identified students from disadvantaged backgrounds. With these additional resources, schools can choose to either outsource the service or run it themselves. 1.45 pm Students with special needs – like all mainstream school students, students with special needs should not be treated with low expectations. They, too, deserve the world-class mainstream education the MOE team should be credited for. In the past, special school students in Singapore are remembered as appendices after a main education policy is determined. Thanks to the political leadership, special education is very much now on MOE's radar and much has improved over the last seven years. I seek the Education Minister's consideration of five recommendations to plug some gaps I have observed. First, make satellite classes for the disabled a common feature in our mainstream education landscape.”
“Sir, ably led by Minister Lim Boon Heng, the national Wellness Programme aims to promote active ageing. Excellent toolkits such as this [indicating] were developed to encourage seniors take part in health screenings and physical exercises such as tai-chi, line dancing and even belly-dancing. Sir, to add more meaning to ageing, I propose that the Active Ageing Framework formally includes the components of work and contribution into the current physical, mental and social dimensions. Sir, there are seniors who wish to and can afford to work less, at their own pace and their own time. I ask for a Jobs-for-Seniors Clearing House to be set up to help identify, assess and place seniors in part-time work suitable for elderly beyond the usual blanket-sewing, handicraft type of work. Next, on ageing more meaningfully, Sir, more popular programmes such as Youths for Causes and Young Change-Makers support young people to contribute to people or causes beyond themselves. Similar programmes such as a Seniors for Causes or Senior Change-Makers should also be funded throughout Singapore so that ageing Singaporeans can make greater impact on other people, beyond themselves and their families. Let us fund People's Association more to help all our senior Singaporeans to finish well in life. Do not let them just count their days. Let us help to make their days count. Supporting seniors”
“We can even use the system to tap on and train chronically low-wage workers that Mayor Zainudin mentioned and to include the elderly and disabled workforce in this industry. In expanding this slate of drive engines to include the somewhat boring and seemingly low-tech sector, Sir, I therefore urge Government to consider them, to beware of jumping on the same over-loaded bandwagons with other economies, and consider growing these lower-lying fruits such as building intellectual property assets in seemingly lower-tech industries. In conclusion, Sir, I thank the Minister and his team for the brilliant Budget. I seek his considered responses to: (i) my request of his assessment of the last economic downturn especially the lessons we learnt; (ii) my inputs on the gaming industry; and (iii) my concern that we are on the same bandwagon as many others in our search for drive engines for sustainable economic growth. Sir, I support the Budget. 5.04 pm”
“I am fully aware that it is one thing to say we should limit gaming as a source of revenue but it is another to suggest there are other similarly easy ways to make money. There are none. Sir, as I look at the list of strategic business sectors that Singapore is investing in, for example, biomedical, finance, commodity, maritime, green technology and so forth, I cannot help but note that other countries are also eyeing the same sectors. Even US President Barack Obama mentioned some similar industries such as clean technology and biotechnology in his 2011 State of the Union address. The billion-dollar question then is – which will be the winner and what growth engines should we develop for sustainable economic growth if we drop softer options like gambling or gaming? Sir, I would like to suggest to the Minister, to Government, to consider the idea that management guru Tom Peters recently shared in his latest book, The Little BIG Things. Peters talked about the idea that "Boring is Beautiful". Peters named seemingly boring companies like Jim’s Group which honed the capability of developing support systems for thousands of franchisees in such mundane businesses like all sorts of cleaning, mowing, and pressure-cleaning. The key underlying success factors for that industry lie in strengths that are not easily copied such as robust systems, excellent service level and good brand building, meaning good brand equity. If we are able to lock in these know-hows and institutionalise the systems that work, we would be able to develop and instil business models of even the most mundane businesses. That is how companies like McDonald's, Subway and Service Masters increased their global footprint. We can even use these, if this sector is selected.”
“We are not a Macau which is populated mostly by foreigners. The proximity of the casinos in our midst is a social risk that must be watched closely. Sir, I know it is futile to question why Singapore decided to build the two IRs with the casinos in 2005. There were good intentions and perhaps even good reasons for that decision. But whilst we may not be able to change the decisions we have made in the past, we can shape our future by refusing to build a third casino if the appeal ever comes up and to rethink our economic strategy relating to the gaming industry for the simple reason – all that glitters is not gold. I urge the Government to: (1) not consider, if it ever comes up, MBS’ request for more land; and if indeed there is a demand for MICE and leisure facilities, to offer that land and that facility to local groups so that we can learn to develop world-class expertise, systems and management in these service industries; (2) stop at two casinos in Singapore. For casinos, stop at two. Unlike babies, casinos strengthen neither economy or society. Let us put a lid on this industry whilst easy gaming revenue is still small and let us not let it grow so large that we become dependent on it for even our social services and it becomes impossible to give up; (3) increase the per-entry levy to the existing casinos by three times, making it not so attractive for casual or social gamblers to go there; and (4) abolish the annual levy to discourage the urge by visitors to spread cost by higher-visit frequency. Last but not least, alternate economic drive engines and being aware of the risk of riding on the same bandwagon as other economies.”
“Sir, Singapore’s embrace of the gaming industry and its apparent success have emboldened other governments to reconsider their stance to join in the gaming competition. I hear that Thailand, Japan, Taiwan, China, India and even nearby Bintan, Indonesia, are potential candidates in the gaming industry. With their natural, usually more beautiful, habitats and potentially more liberal regulatory frameworks, it is likely that our lead will be eroded and gaming is unlikely to help us sustain economic growth in the long term for Singapore. In addition, Sir, for Singapore’s economy to truly benefit from the price we pay for admitting the casinos, we must learn the trade of building more quality tourism products ourselves. We should design our next step to provide opportunities for our local corporations, the big ones and the SMEs, to learn to build and run world-class MICE and leisure-entertainment resorts ourselves. Two, strengthening our society. Sir, many of us know the dark side of problem gambling and organised crime that are associated with the gaming industry worldwide. There is growing evidence that debts arising from local gambling activities are already increasing, and I hear social gamblers are said to be enticed with additional gambling chips to gamble both here in Singapore and at casinos in the operators' regional network, eg, Genting. Sir, we must not repeat too often the official Government's reply that "it is too early to tell the full extent of the social impact that casinos are having on Singapore". Research tells us that the negative impact of casinos on its neighbouring vicinity is usually felt after a period of about three years. Singapore’s small geographic size adds to the risk of both higher social and security ills.”
“Consultancy PWC has estimated that by 2014, Singapore’s slice of the global gaming industry is as big as US$8.3 billion out of US$156.8 billion. Demand is so strong that last week, Marina Bay Sands (MBS) announced that it is seeking more land from the Singapore Government to expand its meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) operations. Sir, the very strong economic showing by the casino industry in Singapore has taken many of us aback. Proponents argue that the Integrated Resorts and the casinos were key in achieving the record of 11.6 million in visitor arrivals and $18.8 billion in tourism dollars. However, Sir, if we study the numbers carefully, we would know that a record of 10.3 million in visitor arrivals was already achieved in 2007 even before the IRs were completed. Similarly, the previous record of $15.5 billion in tourism dollars was set in 2008 before the IRs were completed. These achievements before the IRs were started weaken the arguments for the building of the casinos where 2002’s much lower figures were cited in argument for the casinos. Sir, I bring up the topic of gaming revenue not to question the decision of 2005. Hindsight, as we all know, is always 20/20. My intent is to urge Government not to be tempted by the glitter of the gaming industry and to consider taking the more difficult journey of honing our own expertise in building quality tourism products. There are two reasons for this – to strengthen our economy and to strengthen our society – the very same reasons underpinning this year’s annual Budget. One, strengthening our economy.”