Desmond Lee
Singapore
“The Leadership, Enrichment, Achievement, Participation and Service (LEAPS) 2.0 is a framework for recognising student participation and achievement in secondary school co-curricular programmes.”
“The Ministry of Education (MOE) is mindful of the impact that rising temperatures may have on our students, teachers and officials taking part in the National School Games. Matches are scheduled only after students have had the time to train and become progressively more heat acclimatised.”
“As shared in Parliament in March 2026, the proportion of students with special educational needs (SEN) in mainstream schools has remained stable, at around 7% of the overall student population. This stability is observed across both primary and secondary schools.”
“The Ministry recruits and assesses applicants based on merit and suitability for the teaching profession, regardless of gender. We look for individuals with a passion for teaching, a belief in the potential of every child, and who possess the values and character to make a positive difference in students' lives.”
“Over the past five years, an average of 750 teachers resigned from the Education Service annually, representing a resignation rate of around 2%.”
“MOE has also progressively strengthened open access within the Primary 1 Registration Framework through Phase 2C, which is open to students regardless of whether they have prior connections to the school. MOE had increased the number of reserved Phase 2C places from zero to 20 in 2014; and from 20 to 40 in 2022.”
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“Mdm Speaker, for the sales launches from 2010 to 2014, there were about 113,000 new flat bookings as at 31 January this year. Of these bookings, about 10,000, or 9% of the applicants, did not complete the purchase. The number of appeals to delay key collection totalled about 460: 30 in 2010, followed by 50 in 2011; 90 each in 2012 and 2013; and 200 in 2014. The increase in appeals corresponded with the increase in the number of flats completed over the years. Out of the 460 appeals, about 180 appeals were from first-timer applicants. Generally, 4- and 5-room flat types had more appeals from first-timers, while the smaller flat types had more appeals from second-timer applicants. About three in four of them have since collected the keys.”
“Mdm Speaker, HDB will assess the circumstances of each case and work with the flat buyer to achieve a sustainable housing option. For example, HDB may offer a cheaper flat that is within the buyer's budget at the point in time, so as to ease their financial burden. And as I have said earlier, HDB may also consider a waiver of the financial forfeiture to help hardship cases so that they are able to build up their finances to buy a flat in the future.”
“Mdm Speaker, HDB conducts a second credit assessment before it disburses a housing loan to flat buyers when the keys are ready for collection. This usually occurs a few years after the first credit assessment and an HLE letter is issued. The second assessment is to check that the flat buyers' financial positions have not deteriorated in the intervening years and that they are still able to service the monthly mortgage instalments. In 2013 and 2014, 51 flat buyers were unable to take possession of their new flats after the second credit assessment. If a flat buyer does not proceed with his flat purchase, 5% of the purchase price will be forfeited to HDB. HDB will try to help such families, for example, in cases of genuine financial hardship, HDB may consider refunding the forfeited amount. It would not be prudent to complete the purchase if the buyers are no longer able to service a housing loan. It would merely be creating a potential loan defaulter down the road with many other new problems for the family.”
“Mdm Speaker, in response to the Member's questions, more than 80% of HDB flats are covered by basic fire insurance that is offered by HDB's appointed Page: 9 insurer. We do not track the number of HDB flats covered by fire insurance that is offered by other insurers. So, the actual percentage would probably be much more than that. Of those who have taken up HDB's basic fire insurance, certainly, more than half do so voluntarily and not because they are currently still servicing HDB loans. This is because HDB writes to and encourages them to apply for or renew their HDB basic fire insurance cover. But for those who are still on HDB loans, HDB will remind them when their policy is near expiry and if they for some reason forget or omit to do so, HDB will procure the insurance for them first and then recover the premiums later. Premiums for HDB's basic fire insurance policy are very affordable. For instance, if you are an owner of a 4-room flat, coverage for five years would cost you $5.40 for five years; for a 5-room flat, $6.60 for five years. This basic fire insurance cost covers the basic building structure of the flat, the fixtures and the fittings provided by HDB, to keep these premiums low and affordable for all homeowners of HDB flats. If they wish to get additional coverage of costs, they may need to get further insurance for their personal properties as well as their renovations. I hope that adequately answers the Member's questions.”
“Mdm Speaker, as with many other forms of insurance, fire insurance for properties is not mandated. It is the responsibility of property owners to ensure that they have the financial means to repair and restore their properties should these properties be damaged in a fire. Nevertheless, HDB home owners who take up HDB loans are required to purchase fire insurance from the HDB-appointed insurer. In addition, under the Building Maintenance and Strata Management Act, Management Corporations are required to obtain insurance for strata-titled developments, so that they are able to undertake restoration work to the developments in the event of accidents such as a fire. Regardless, I encourage all owners to ensure that their properties are adequately insured against damages caused by unfortunate accidents such as a fire. It would be prudent to do so.”
“An HDB flat is a home and HDB does not encourage people to monetise the flat, then use it to settle debts, leaving themselves without a shelter. Having said that, we recognise the realities and difficulties of life. Families may choose to settle all these debts to the detriment of their housing needs. It is, therefore, as I said in my answer earlier, that, in the last resort, HDB offers public rental housing or interim rental housing as these families take time to sort out the various issues. I also said earlier, in my response to the Member Zainal Sapari's supplementary question, that HDB counsellors look beyond just arrears management and work holistically across the board with various agencies to tackle these issues, such as credit cards, money lenders, social assistance, healthcare and do their best to sort out these issues holistically.”
“Mdm Speaker, yes, HDB issues a Notice of Intention to compulsorily acquire a flat and, down the line, after all measures have failed, in addition to what I have just detailed above, a revesting notice is issued. Between the Notice of Intention and the actual acquisition, if HDB does need to resort to that, it can be many months, even up to a year or beyond. That is a reflection of the effort that HDB officers put in to try to resolve the issues with the families directly.”
“Sixth, they can also include their working adult children to help pay the loan without affecting their children's eligibility to apply for HDB loans in future. Seventh, apart from financial measures, we also recognise that mortgage arrears are normally a symptom of other difficulties that the owners face. For instance, medical problems, medical or family issues, loss of job, loss of a loved one and the breadwinner, and so on. HDB's counsellors, therefore, look beyond housing loan measures that I have just detailed above, and work with other agencies to help these families more holistically. These Page: 17 include Family Service Centres for family counselling; e2i, WDA or the CDC for job placement or job upgrading; the SSO for financial assistance; VWOs and so on. Eighth, for those who are still unable to manage, as I said earlier, HDB will help them right size to the flat that they can afford and offer another housing loan to assist them, if necessary. Ninth, if they cannot afford another flat, then HDB will allocate them a rental flat. From January 2012 to December 2014, HDB assisted 9,752 families with one or more of the measures that I have just described above. It is only when all these attempts to solve their arrears problem fail, such as when the home owners persistently refuse to solve their arrears or work towards a sustainable solution, that HDB has no choice but to exercise CA. The Member has asked for the timeframe. Under the legislation, CA can be taken if arrears pile up for up to three months, but in practice, HDB works with lessees, as I have just mentioned above, and this can take quite some time. It is an ongoing process.”
“Mdm Speaker, it is not in the interest of HDB flat owners to accumulate mortgage arrears. It is not just a heavy financial burden on them but also tremendous emotional strain. HDB, therefore, intervenes early, proactively and sympathetically to help flat owners resolve their arrears issues. There are many measures that can be taken to help these HDB home owners. Some are short term, to deal with their short-term financial difficulties. Some are longer term for those facing prolonged difficulties. For instance, loan instalments are usually paid on the first of each month, but HDB gives lessees up to the end of the month if they face temporary cash flow difficulties. If they still face problems doing so, HDB will make a call, arrange a meet-up or even do a home visit, to better understand the situation and to offer help. The Member may note that every HDB branch has housing counsellors who offer financial counselling and explore sustainable housing options for home owners in mortgage arrears. What are some of these options? First, HDB can help the flat owner reschedule his mortgage loan, including extending the repayment up to the maximum loan period, if that would help. Second, under the reduced repayment scheme, owners in difficulty can pay lower monthly instalments of between, say, 50% and 75% of their normal instalments for, say, up to two years. Third, they can defer their mortgage payments if they face serious financial difficulties. This will be for an initial six-month period. It can be extended based on review. Fourth, home owners can pay their arrears by instalments. Fifth, they could sublet a spare room if there is one to generate additional income for themselves.”
“Mdm Speaker, for the three-year period from January 2012 to December 2014, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) compulsorily acquired 202 flats. HDB takes Compulsory Acquisition (CA) action against flat lessees who have committed major lease infringements, such as the unauthorised subletting of flats. CA action is also taken, as a last resort, against HDB mortgagors who persistently refuse to resolve their arrears, or work towards a sustainable solution, despite the assistance given. HDB will assist households affected by CA due to mortgage arrears to find alternative accommodation. For those who can afford smaller flats, HDB will help them buy one and may offer them another loan for the purchase, if necessary. Those who are unable to afford another flat and have no family support or other housing option, are allocated rental flats.”
“In the meantime, there is no change in HDB's policies on both cat and dog ownership. Mr Yeo's proposed amendments to the Animals and Birds Act are the latest in a series of steps that MND and AVA are taking to raise the standard of animal welfare in partnership with the community. It is a major milestone that enhances animal well-being, while addressing the community's concerns. MND supports Mr Yeo's Bill. Yet, as we debate this Bill, let us remember that the law is just an enabler to set boundaries and strengthen powers. What is more important is for everyone to play his or her role. What we need is to cultivate a shared ethos of animal welfare, a sense of realism on the trade-offs involved and a willingness to compromise and collaborate with one another despite our diverse perspectives. Mdm Speaker, I support the Bill. 3.17 pm”
“Given that many businesses are involved, including many SMEs in the heartlands, AVA is working with stakeholders such as training providers, the pet industry and our animal welfare groups via the Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration Committee (MSCC), chaired by Mr Alex Yam, to develop the training curricula in animal welfare and handling for these animal-related businesses. AVA will introduce the mandatory training requirements gradually, over a period of two years, to allow businesses ample time to fulfil these requirements and to minimise disruption to businesses. AVA will strike a balance – while the training curricula will be designed to ensure that employees are equipped with the skills to maintain standards of animal welfare, they will not be too onerous to comply with. Mr Gan Thiam Poh has asked whether people can be allowed to keep more dogs at home. In high-rise, high-density public housing estates, HDB has to consider the different sentiments of its residents. This is the rational for the current policy to only allow the keeping Page: 40 of one dog from a list approved breeds. There is also Project ADORE, where well-trained, mixed breed dogs are allowed to be kept in HDB flats. As for private apartments and condominiums, they are governed by their own by-laws and may also have their own restrictions, the number and the type of dogs that can be kept. Mr Gan has also asked about pets. A project "Love Cats" is a pilot project spearheaded by the Cat Welfare Society with the support of the local Member of Parliament, grassroots leaders and Government agencies to re-home cats in HDB flats in Chong Pang. The pilot has been progressing well and we will continue to work with stakeholders to monitor this pilot project.”
“AVA will enforce the law sensibly, fairly and even-handedly. Owners who take proper care of their pet animals need not fear running afoul of the law. In fact, as highlighted Page: 39 by Mr Yeo yesterday, the aim is to take a responsive and preventative approach to animal welfare and nip problems in the bud, rather than reacting only when it is too late, when things have gone seriously wrong and pet owners have to be hauled up for animal cruelty amidst public outcry. With these amendments, AVA will have a fuller suite of options, including giving gentle advisories, issuing directions under the new section 43A, or taking firm regulatory enforcement action, depending on the circumstances of each case. Actually, right upstream, as Ms Tin herself also points out, education on responsible pet ownership is key. This has been a major focal point for AVA and its animal welfare partners in their outreach to pet owners and the public. I also agree with Ms Tin that we can do more to tackle pet abandonment, as abandoned animals suffer terribly and those that do adapt may potentially turn feral and pose public safety problems. There are other measures we can consider to improve the traceability of animals, starting with dogs, to discourage and deter pet abandonment. For a start, AVA will be reviewing its rules on dog licensing to explore whether owners must be required to inform AVA when there is a change in ownership, and provide the details of the new owners. While fully supportive of the need to raise standards to stem animal cruelty, Er Dr Lee Bee Wah suggested striking a balance between protection of animals and the cost of doing businesses.”
“These actions bring disrepute to the majority of animal lovers in the moderate mainstream who champion the noble cause of animal welfare. It is therefore important, Mdm Speaker, for the Government and for society to balance these varied viewpoints. On the one hand, we have the responsibility to ensure public safety, safeguard public health, and resolve animal nuisance issues caused by irresponsible pet owners. On the other hand, we endeavour to raise animal welfare standards. So, where should the centre of gravity be? One way of trying to achieve a balanced outcome is for the Government to weigh the considerations and then adopt what it perceives as a compromise, in an essentially top-down approach. Another way is for the stakeholders to talk to one another, understand each other's concerns and standpoints and try to achieve a consensus. This is exactly what the Committee under Mr Yeo's chairmanship, has done. This Bill, which is the product of the work of this multi-stakeholder collaboration, has been informed by a diversity of views and does not veer to either extreme. This approach of coming up with animal welfare solutions – led by a partnership of varied stakeholders, with feedback from the wider public – is a good way to strike a balance. This can only work if we temper our emotions, be prepared to give and take, and approach the issues, even if contentious, with mutual respect and a willingness to understand one another's views. Let me now address some of the points Members have raised in their speeches. Ms Tin Pei Ling is concerned that the duty of care imposed on animal owners in new section 41C, as well as the codes of animal welfare should not be unduly onerous or rigidly applied, as it may inadvertently drive up pet abandonment rates. I agree.”
“Those who work in the pet industry, while broadly supportive of animal welfare, are also mindful of potentially higher compliance costs. Various other stakeholders are more concerned about the impact of animals on public safety, public health and public nuisance. For example, in 2013, AVA received more than 17,000 pieces of animal-related feedback – including concerns on animal welfare and complaints relating to wild or stray animals or neighbourhood disputes centering around pets. The landscape is made even more complex by the fact that animal issues – from the worst acts of animal cruelty to very real risks to human lives and injury, can be very emotive. When people live in close proximity in a dense city like Singapore, there is even more potential for disagreements to occur. Even among people who care deeply and passionate about animal welfare, there can be wide variations in opinion on many issues. These can sometimes stir up strong emotions. For example: (a) Some say that euthanasia of unwanted animals is cruel and unacceptable, while others feel that humane euthanasia is a compassionate way to release them from life in a world that has no place for them. Page: 38 (b) Some feel that it is wrong to keep birds or animals in captivity, as they are meant to roam free, while others feel that zoos play an important role in conservation and that responsible pet ownership is acceptable. (c) Some feel strongly that eating animals is cruel and wrong. (d) And there are also very differing views on the issue of animal testing. In some Western countries, animal rights activism has taken extreme forms at the outer fringes, including resorting to arson, vandalism and intimidation to pursue their objectives.”
“Mdm Speaker, let me first thank Mr Yeo Guat Kwang and members of his Animal Welfare Legislation Review Committee (AWLRC) for reviewing and updating our animal welfare legislation. My Ministry also appreciates the effort by Mr Yeo to table this Private Member's Bill to enhance animal welfare in Singapore. Many Singaporeans are becoming more concerned about animal welfare issues. This is a reflection of our maturity as a society, where people begin to be more active in advocating Page: 37 various causes that resonate with them. In my work at MND, I have had the privilege of meeting many Singaporeans of all ages and from all walks of life, who care passionately about animal welfare and want to make a difference. Some rescue and rehabilitate smuggled wildlife. Some dig deep into their pockets or raise funds to set up shelters for abandoned animals or volunteer their time and energy at such shelters. Others conduct education and outreach to the public on responsible pet ownership or help mediate the neighbourhood disputes arising from animals. They feel that the manner in which Singaporeans treat animals, over which we have dominion, is one measure of how compassionate we are as a society and as a community. When graphic acts of animal cruelty have been committed, many speak out and decry the inflicting of senseless pain and suffering on animals that are often defenceless under the circumstances. At the same time, we recognise that animals can evoke a range of very different responses from different people. Some love them, some people are indifferent to them, while others either recoil in fear or loathe animals. Society's views on animal welfare also vary. For instance, animal welfare groups and animal lovers hope for stricter laws to raise animal welfare standards.”
“Well, I have just said earlier in response to the Member's question that HDB proactively helps these contractors by driving up productivity, by introducing in their projects productivity-enhancing methodologies. That is the first approach. The second approach is to allow them to mechanise, raise productivity and skills through the provision of a fund. If they do need more workers, then, they are certainly entitled to apply for more workers. It is not that HDB prevents them from doing so. But in so doing, there is the incurring of additional levies. I hope that addresses the Member's question as to whether HDB contractors, when they face difficulties in getting workers, are they able to apply. The answer is yes.”
“Mdm Speaker, Singapore is experiencing a tight labour market across all economic sectors, as we are all well aware. For the build environment sector, this applies both to the private as well as the public sector projects. Because the tightening of foreign Page: 16 worker numbers is one of the measures to incentivise contractors to increase productivity, it is normal that they have been affected as well. What we have done to help contractors is to help them defray the cost of mechanisation uptake, and to raise their workers' skill levels. This is so that they can meet the challenges ahead of them. We do this through the Construction Productivity and Capability Fund. In addition, HDB has introduced various initiatives such as the use of pre-cast technology, system form-work and mechanisation of the work process onsite, as well as the piloting of the dry wall system and so on. To cushion the impact and to drive up productivity in the HDB sector, if they still need more workers, beyond these measures, then they can apply for more workers beyond the Man-Year Entitlement quota through the Man-Year Entitlement Waiver tier. But, of course, that would incur higher levies.”
“The discussions at the Network centre around five broad themes: (a) biodiversity conservation; (b) heritage, history and community; (c) sustainable design and practices, (d) education and research, and (e) nature-based recreation. But instead of discussing each of these topics in silo, where there is a risk of echo-chambers forming where people of similar interests come together, we decided to discuss all five in sequence and broaden participation so that for every theme about Ubin, we get a broad range of views from people with different perspectives. I think we will get better outcomes this way. So, this is not just about Ubin, it is important to many of us, but also about the way in which we try to engage across the spectrum of society. Our consultation will not be limited to the Friends of Ubin Network. In fact, we will be reaching out to an even wider spectrum of Singaporeans, through a microsite which will be launched later today. This microsite provides updates on our Network discussions and our agencies' engagement efforts and allows everyone to submit ideas on what they think and would like Ubin to be. We will also go out and about to talk to people and gather their views. Mdm Speaker, the Ubin Project is another good opportunity for the Government and the community to work together on something close to our hearts. I encourage all Singaporeans to participate in the process because it is as much with process as it is an outcome. Mdm Speaker, I support the Motion to thank the President for his Address. 2.07 pm”
“People congregate around opinion-leaders whose views they subscribe to, echo-chambers are formed and groups shout at one another from the mountain tops. If a decision is made to move and break the gridlock, it may be perceived by some as unilateral, top-down, heavy-handed or zero-sum. Outcomes, if any, are more likely to be sub-optimal compromises rather than genuine win-win outcomes. There are many recent examples of Government and civil society engaging more deeply and constructively on a range of issues. As a whole, we are feeling our way forward as society develops and matures, to find the right balance for constructive debate and inclusive decision-making. The Ubin Project, which I announced during the Committee of Supply and which is mentioned in the MND Addendum to the President's Address, is structured for such open dialogue. Our purpose is to see how we can sensitively enhance the natural environment of Ubin and protect its heritage and its rustic charm. Page: 20 Over the past two months, we have formed a broad network of stakeholders who are passionate about Ubin and keen to share their ideas. They include biodiversity experts, conservation activists, history buffs, socio-anthropologists, students, volunteers and Ubin community leaders and residents. They come from organisations as diverse as the Nature Society, Singapore Heritage Society and the Raffles Museum of Bio-Diversity Research, or they join us in their own personal capacities. We call this the Friends of Ubin Network, or FUN. It is diverse, but we can open up even more. I am excited by the many interesting ideas shared by our Friends of Ubin thus far.”
“So, it is a clear example of how civil society, with good proposals, mindful of sensitivities and dynamics across the border society, has been able to actively seek and achieve change in tandem with Government. Civil society may not always agree with Government, or indeed with each other, or in certain groups even among their own members. This is the nature of ground-up initiative. This can either be a source of strength or a weakness, depending on the nature of the relationship. With civility and open-mindedness on all sides, there is strength in diversity, even if ultimately stakeholders agree to disagree on certain areas. Government does not have a monopoly on all knowledge; in fact, it is well recognised that Government decision-making can benefit greatly from wide and inclusive consultation on many fronts. By having a mature and robust conversation, Government, civic groups and Singaporeans can move towards common ground and win-win outcomes, even on difficult issues. This is not to say that everyone falls in line or that people are compliant – there is often intense discussion and people push their points of view robustly and passionately, but, ultimately, they respect one another and are prepared to listen to one another's concerns and consider one another's views. Through genuine engagement and consultation, participants feel that they have a stake in the outcome. On the other hand, if there is no civility in the conversation and people are close-minded or unwilling to recognise the legitimacy of other people's points of view, then the difference of views and opinions becomes a source of division, friction and gridlock.”
“Our animal welfare groups (AWGs) have been just as admirable, engaging Government on concerns that they have about the state of animal welfare. I meet some of them from time to time and invited them on a working trip with AVA and some veterinarians to study animal management practices. One of the projects which we have been working closely with the SPCA and with the Action for Singapore Dogs on is Project ADORE – a pilot initiative proposed by these welfare groups, run for the re-homing of stray dogs in Housing and Development Board (HDB) estates. Re-homing of stray dogs is not a straightforward issue. It involves more than just animal welfare groups. We have to balance animal welfare concerns with broader public sentiments and try to create win-win solutions for everybody. Some HDB residents have reservations about having their neighbours keep larger dog breeds. So, we have moved cautiously on a pilot basis through ADORE, educating the adopters to train their dogs well and sterilise their pets. ADORE has been a great success because SPCA and Action for Singapore Dogs, both civic groups, understand the broader sensitivities and the different dynamics at play and have run the pilot well. As a result, HDB residents are slowly accepting these re-homed stray dogs. We have therefore decided to transit Project ADORE which is an AWG proposed scheme, from a pilot scheme to a permanent programme. In fact, MND, AVA and HDB have started partnering another animal welfare group known as Save Our Street Dogs (SOSD), on the re-homing of strays and have recently Page: 19 included them in Project ADORE.”
“For instance, on the heritage front, I have been struck by volunteers like Kwek Li Yong and Jasper Tan, who are founders of My Community, a civic group that champions the preservation of history and heritage in Singapore. Together with grassroots leaders and residents of Queenstown estate – Singapore's first satellite town – Li Yong and Jasper, who are both in their 20s, have set up their own Queenstown heritage trail, complete with a smart-phone app to boot. They are now dedicated to raising funds and collecting artefacts Page: 18 to establish a Queenstown Heritage Museum. Some have turned passion into their life's mission. Take Lim Chen Sian from the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS), for example. Probably, our one and only Singaporean archaeologist, he has been actively involved in the last 12 years leading major archaeological investigations in Singapore. Mind you, he is young – he is in his mid-30s. I had the opportunity earlier this month to visit him and his team of volunteers and staff as they dug and investigated a site at Fort Canning without any fanfare. Over the last 30 years, individuals and volunteers such as these have been quietly and assiduously working on sites across Singapore, uncovering troves of artefacts from Singapore's 700-year old human history. Such is the depth and age of our land. In so doing, in Chen Sian's own words, they "breathe life into the arid history composed of innumerable dates and dusty personages" and "animate the people who lived in the past". He shared with me that, some time ago, for example, they had discovered, among other artefacts, pieces of a rare Chinese porcelain compass at Fort Canning, dated to the mid-14th century, which is believed to be the only example known to date in this world.”
“Mdm Speaker, a fortnight ago, the President emphasised that, "Government spending, by itself, does not create a wealthier, a better or a happier society. It must be matched by individual and community effort and initiatives." He said that "active community involvement engages the human spirit, provides personal fulfilment and strengthens our collective well-being." During his speech in this Chamber yesterday, Mr Laurence Lien also suggested that we should see how we can strengthen civil society as well as Government's engagement with civil society and recognise the contributions to Singapore. This is very much in the same vein as what Ms Faizah Jamal has just spoken about a moment ago. Madam, civil society, an active citizenry as well as Government can be strong partners to build a better and brighter Singapore. In many instances, active citizens and civic groups can bring Government schemes and assistance even closer to the ground. In my constituency, for example, members of the local Volunteer Aid (V8) scheme regularly visit families and individuals facing difficulties, and work closely with Government agencies and VWOs to bring Government schemes and other forms of community assistance to them. I know this also happens in many places across the island. These volunteers are active social change agents. I have been working in MND for about eight months now. During this time, I have had the tremendous privilege of meeting and working alongside many passionate Singaporeans, including those in the environmental sphere, who give their time and energy to pursue a range of very worthy causes.”
“In response to Member Mr Lim Biow Chuan's query – we currently have a water taxi service at the Singapore River to facilitate movement of people within the city area. For Kallang River, it is something that we can look at in the future. Er Dr Lee Bee Wah: Sir, I would like to let the Minister know that construction sites start work at 7.00 am. Once they have excavated, they will load the waste on the lorries and go to the dumping ground. It will be throughout the whole day. If you want them to dump only in the evening time – that means double handling – it is not productive. Not only that, many sites do not have that space to store the excavated materials. That is why I would like to urge the Minister to look into ways to improve this. Otherwise, it is Page: 156 unproductive. [(proc text) The hon Minister Khaw Boon Wan nodded. (proc text)]”
“I would also like to thank Mr Yeo Guat Kwang for his cut on foreign worker housing. Sir, to build homes and other facilities for Singaporeans, including transport and infrastructure, we need foreign workers. The Government will continue to launch new sites for purpose-built dormitories that meet the housing, social and recreational needs of these workers. We have also launched and will continue to identify new sites to build recreation centres for these workers. As mentioned by the Acting Minister for Manpower in his earlier speech during the MOM COS, the Government is considering enhancing levers to ensure that foreign worker dormitories better meet workers' needs. In that regard, the move by the Dormitory Association of Singapore Limited (DASL) to develop a set of standards, and to consult Government agencies on these standards, is very much welcome. The Government will work very closely with the industry on these initiatives. Sir, on behalf of MND, I would like to thank all Members for their interest in the work of MND, and look forward to working with all of you and with fellow Singaporeans to realise the dream of a sustainable, highly liveable green home and city.”
“Sometimes, implementation may be held back by technical issues. It is often tricky to synchronise precisely an increase in demand for new developments, with the expansion of supporting infrastructure, which does usually takes years to build. As a result, residents may experience temporary inconvenience, which agencies will do their level best to mitigate. For instance, we have required developers of Government Land Sales sites to inform residents living nearby about upcoming developments. We have also mandated that contractors reduce noise nuisance from construction. Overall, our agencies recognise the need to plan and implement ahead of demand in a coordinated manner, and will continue to do so. I note Ms Sylvia Lim had mentioned earlier about certain instances where certain surveys seem to have Page: 151 been done after developments have pushed through. We would be grateful if she could provide us with the specific examples in order for us to take this matter up more effectively. Sir, on Ms Lee Li Lian's specific concerns about food establishments, I mentioned earlier that the availability of amenities is one of many parameters that we look at when planning new towns but we assure her that agencies do plan for adequate food establishments in her constituency, as had been responded to on a number of occasions through Parliamentary Questions last year. Residents in the ward are currently served by two commercial centres located near LRT stations and within a walking distance of about five to 10 minutes for most residents. There are 15 food establishments in that area including coffee shops, food courts, cafes and restaurants. Nevertheless, more such facilities can be considered when there are more residential developments.”
“Some of these ideas, if ready, will also be meaningful in our commemoration of Singapore's 50th anniversary Page: 150 next year. We will share more details about "The Ubin Project" later this year. I hope Members will support this initiative. I hope Singaporeans, young, old and the young-at-heart, as well as the heritage and green community, will rally around, support this project and share your memories, ideas and your impressions with us. Sir, let me now turn to the remaining cuts filed by hon Members. First, on urban planning: Assoc Prof Fatimah Lateef, Ms Sylvia Lim and Ms Lee Li Lian had asked how plans for new developments had been properly coordinated and smoothly implemented. In Singapore, land use planning is a structured process overseen and coordinated by URA, in consultation with all relevant agencies. The agencies will look at a wide range of parameters, such as the overall planning intention for the area, transport capacity, utilities, greenery and recreation, amenities like shops, schools, hawker centres, food establishments, so on and so forth. The agencies will then assess the use, scale and intensity to determine whether these developments can be supported by local infrastructure, or whether the plans need to be adjusted appropriately to avoid adversely affecting nearby residents and businesses. They will also seek feedback regularly to make sure the planning parameters remain relevant. But, Sir, sometimes, there are gaps between what is desirable from the planning perspective, what is feasible and what residents want. Sometimes, there is a limit to how much new infrastructure we can add in an area around new developments, as the area may already be built up. This is part and parcel of intensification, to make good use of our limited land.”
“Members cannot see it on the screen but it gets its interesting name from the breathing pores that you can find on the trunk of the tree which, if you look carefully, resemble the scaly lids of the crocodile eyes and which help the tree to take in oxygen in the muddy mangrove environment. It is the most endangered mangrove tree species in the world, with an estimate of less than 250 of these trees left globally. Of these, at least 11 are in Singapore. Dr John Yong from SUTD had discovered the first one at Sungei Loyang, and subsequently helped to find one of two trees on Ubin. The largest tree was found along the Kranji Nature Trail by Ms Ria Tan, who is a passionate naturalist who set up WildSingapore, the popular nature blog. These are just some of the many examples of how agencies like NParks have been working with passionate volunteers and experts to document Ubin's biodiversity, preserve its rustic character, enhance its natural environment and sensitively provide access so that the public can enjoy Ubin's natural charm. Building on these efforts, Sir, we will initiate a conversation soon with Singaporeans, including the islanders, interest groups and experts, on how we can sensitively enhance the natural environment of Ubin and protect its heritage and its rustic charm. We will seek ideas about nature and heritage conservation, and about education and nature-based recreation. Minister Khaw has asked me to lead this project, and I am humbled and privileged to do so. We will consult and engage widely. We will not rush because the process is as important as the outcome and we want to hear from as many Singaporeans as possible. Our collective ideas, when implemented, can be a gift for many generations of Singaporeans.”
“Habitats are being enhanced and species are being discovered, with the help of many Singaporeans in the community. Just some examples: in the 1990s, Prof Ng Soon Chye, former President of the Nature Society (Singapore), together with a French researcher, approached NParks to carry out a joint study on the Oriental Pied Hornbills on Ubin – large creatures. But the study revealed the breeding ecology of the hornbills. As a result, they installed artificial nest boxes on the island. From one breeding pair of hornbills, we now have over 60 of them on the island. Some have even flown across to other parts of Singapore, including Changi and Pasir Ris. In 2003, NParks carried out a comprehensive survey of butterflies on Ubin with the help of butterfly enthusiasts led by Mr Khew Sin Khoon. More than 100 butterfly species were documented. This group went on to form the Butterfly Circle, an interest group. It advised NParks in planting up Butterfly Hill, a little knoll on the island created out of wasteland left over from Ubin's granite Page: 149 quarrying history. Today, over 130 species of butterflies can be found there. The Greater Mousedeer was presumed to have gone extinct from Singapore by the mid-1990s. It was re-discovered on Ubin in 2008, during a partnership project between NUS and NParks to study wildlife. These mousedeers are doing well on Ubin and are still frequently photographed by our remote cameras set in the forest. The "Eye of the Crocodile", scientific name Bruguiera hainesii, or known by the Malays as Berus mata buaya, is a mangrove tree that is listed as "Critically Endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).”
“Water activities are also expected to increase when the People's Association water venture facility at Marina East is completed by end 2014, and canoeing, dragon boating and sailing activities are available to the community. With these enhancements, we expect Marina Bay to be abuzz with even more energy and excitement, and become a more popular waterfront Page: 148 destination for our families and friends to visit and to enjoy. Let me now turn to another part of Singapore. This time in the north east, to describe an area that is altogether different, that excites different impulses and senses, but which also presents opportunities that require the collective participation of Singaporeans to realise. Sir, when we speak of Pulau Ubin, we think of a small island untouched by the hustle and bustle of Singapore, immersed in the rustic charm of yesteryear – an island which reminds us of life in the early days; an island which Singaporeans love to visit to be in close touch with nature and for activities like camping, cycling and hiking. It is a place close to the hearts of many Singaporeans. Ubin is certainly all that. But it is also much, much more. In the 1950s, Ubin was a bustling island with 2,000 residents, many involved in farming, fishing and the quarrying of granite for construction. In fact, granite from Ubin had been used to build the Causeway and the Horsburgh and Raffles lighthouses. The history of Ubin tracks the history of Singapore and it is very much part of our heritage. As farming and mining declined, so too did the number of residents. It now has less than 100 residents. But unknown to many, Ubin is a wonderful treasure trove of biodiversity. These include species which are endangered or not found in the rest of Singapore.”
“We deliberately planned for seamless connectivity between Marina Bay and the city, complemented by an integrated network of walkways, both above and below ground. 6.00 pm We provided well-landscaped open spaces for people to relax and gather in, and devoted 100 hectares of land to waterfront gardens. Gardens by the Bay has brought nature ever closer to Singaporeans. It is the pride of Singaporeans and well-liked by locals and visitors, including some otters that have visited the Gardens! Over the years, more and more Singaporeans have taken the initiative to enliven and energise Marina Bay. Today, we see street performances, grassroots activities and arts festivals held at the Bay. The Countdown party draws around 300,000 people to the Bay each year, as well as over half a million New Year wishes in the wishing spheres on the waters of the Bay. Just last Friday, Sir, I had the privilege to open the "i Light Marina Bay" festival, where artists, students and the community pooled their talents to create a magical display of art and light. It was tremendously heartening to see many young Singaporeans participating actively in an eco-friendly low carbon footprint way to bring life and light and splendour to this beautiful Bay. Sir, we will do more to realise Marina Bay as the "People's Bay". More affordable food options will be introduced along the Waterfront Promenade. There will be an open area for small-scale events, recreational activities and sports. We will also launch a pilot mobile transporter tour in the area soon, for a trial period of one year.”
“This honour was accorded to Singapore because of the conservation efforts of our small city-state, which is a model now adopted by other cities. At this point, let me share with you two new projects in two very different parts of Singapore which tell contrasting, vivid stories of how we hope to better the lives of our people in a uniquely Singapore way. With your permission, Sir, I have a couple of pictures and slides to illustrate my point. Thank you. Sir, not far away from Parliament House, Marina Bay stands as an extension of our new CBD. Gardens by the Bay, the Esplanade and Marina Bay Sands, well recognised and iconic developments for Singaporeans and visitors alike, are, in fact, new developments which were built in the past 10 over years. With plenty of room to grow, Marina Bay is well positioned to serve as Singapore's premier business and financial hub for the region. But Marina Bay did not just appear overnight only in the last 10 over years. Our pioneers took a bold leap of faith more than 40 years ago when they started reclaiming Marina South and Marina Centre from the sea. They saw the potential for Marina Bay to become an attractive waterfront location for the expansion of our financial centre, but we Page: 147 did not want it to be another Raffles Place or Shenton Way where offices dominate. We wanted it to be a "People's Bay", nestled amongst gardens and flanked by water, grounded in our heritage and historical memories, such as Clifford Pier, the Merlion Park and Collyer Quay, for Singaporeans to live, to work and to play. So, we gradually reclaimed around 360 hectares of land at the Bay, about nine times the size of London's Canary Wharf.”
“Ms Faizah Jamal made a very passionate speech and was concerned that the Government may be overly people-centric in our development. Page: 146 Sir, we must provide for the needs and aspirations of Singaporeans and improve their quality of life in this small city-state. Within our confines, we have to provide for everything that a sovereign state needs. Unlike cities in large countries, we do not have the luxury to put our utilities, our defence needs and our nature spaces outside the walls of the city. Even then, we have protected more than 3,300 hectares in four nature reserves; designated 20 nature areas with significant biodiversity, including two more this year; planted extensive Nature Ways to facilitate movement of biodiversity between natural habitats; and embedded pervasive greenery through our parks and into our urban areas. Our passionate NParks officers work closely with agencies and with many nature volunteers on reforestation and conservation programmes, biodiversity research as well as public outreach and education of Singaporeans, including the young, and this work goes on day after day after day. All of this is possible only because our Pioneer Generation of leaders, most notably former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, had consciously and deliberately made greening part and parcel of Singapore's planning and development DNA from day one and this continues to this very day. Our efforts have not gone unnoticed by the international community. NParks was pivotal in facilitating the formulation of an index for biodiversity to guide sustainable development in cities. This has been endorsed by the United Nations' Convention on Biological Diversity and is now known as the Singapore Index on Cities' Biodiversity.”
“Sir, I serve a constituency in Jurong West. In my conversations with older community leaders and residents, I would be reminded from time to time that, not too long ago, Jurong was a swamp. Nobody thought it could be an industrial hub or a residential heartland. But our pioneers dreamt, persevered and their vision of Jurong became reality. In 1965, Singapore was an improbable nation state. Our pioneers worked hard, thought far, had big dreams, but were very much pragmatists and, in less than the lifetime of a generation, turned this place into a city of opportunities – modern, green and constantly rejuvenating. Back in the early days, our preoccupation was survival and providing the basic essentials for our people. Today, our focus is increasingly on quality of life: liveability, sustainability and inclusiveness. And if you had visited the exhibition or had been consulted on the URA Draft Master Plan 2013, you would have seen some of the ideas being proposed to enhance our living environment, to celebrate our heritage and our green spaces. We agree with Miss Penny Low's comment on the need to be people-centric when we plan urban spaces – housing areas, community areas. This is what URA and other agencies are precisely doing – building on experience from past Master Plans and applying lessons learnt from consultations, studies and continuous research. Yet, in tackling the challenges of tomorrow for our land-scarce city-state, we should retain the "Can-do" spirit of our pioneers – forward-thinking, hardworking, sensible and pragmatic. This means constantly thinking out of the box and looking for innovative solutions but being disciplined in urban planning, having a clear sense of where the trade-offs lie and keeping a careful eye on the long term.”
“I thank the Member for her suggestions. We will take all these into account in the course of the comprehensive review. Page: 46”
“Madam, on the hon Member's first question, yes, the EIP quotas are applied when the BTOs are put up for balloting. As for the second point about forced sales or where an individual is required to sell, the Ministry would look at it on a case-by-case basis. It is only in very exceptional circumstances that we will consider a waiver of the EIP. So, I hope that Page: 40 addresses the concerns.”
“Madam, in the case of an HDB concessionary loan being used to purchase a resale HDB flat, for instance, if the loan is still outstanding when the total CPF used has reached the Valuation Limit, the owner, if he is below 55 years old, can indeed continue to use the OA savings to repay the loan after setting aside half the prevailing CPF Minimum Sum in the OA and the SA. If he is 55 years old or above, the Minimum Sum cash component has to be set aside in the Retirement Account. As for the use of the SA, in general, SA savings may not be used for property purchase, but we allow exceptions in the cases only of CPF policy changes affecting members' ability to service ongoing mortgage loans.”
“On the amendment to the Evidence Act, I think no one would disagree that the significant developments in technology, the irrebuttable presumption in that Evidence Act section was rendered meaningless many years ago and it is correct to fix this piece of legislation now. On the amendment to the Legitimacy Act, this is, in my view, a progressive amendment. As it currently stands, section 3 of that Act allows an illegitimate child to be legitimised by the marriage of his parents only if his father is domiciled in Singapore at the time of marriage. This amendment now permits legitimisation by marriage if the mother is domiciled in Singapore at the time of marriage. While we recognise that elsewhere, traditional common law choice of law rules may still reflect a historical bias for the father's domicile, this amendment now permits legitimisation by marriage if the mother is domiciled in Singapore at the time of marriage, which is, ultimately, better for the child. Sir, in closing, I would like to commend and continue to encourage the important task of law reform work, where officers of the Ministry of Law's Legal Policy Division work closely with the Legislation Division officers in the Attorney-General's Chambers and the Law Reform Committee of the Law Society as well as with academics and practitioners to continually comb through our corpus of laws to identify, to refresh and fix outdated or outmoded legislations. This is an important task. Their continued hard work will ensure that Singapore's laws remain relevant and up-to-date. Sir, with that, I support the Bill. 5.56 pm”
“This will provide greater certainty on issues such as parental obligations and maintenance, inheritance and succession, and so on. I hope the Ministry can consider this. The third point is directly about IVF mix-ups. It happened in Singapore in 2010, in the Netherlands in 1993, in the UK in 2002 and so on. Each time such cases get publicly reported, they generate tremendous public and media interest, but these are really incidents of immense personal anguish and embarrassment for the families concerned. So, while it is important to ensure that we have the legal framework, as we do now, to handle such cases if they ever do recur, it is far more important to ensure that there are stringent regulations and rigorous safeguards upstream in our ART centres to try to prevent such occurrences in the first instance. The fourth point is a point of clarification on the interpretation of clause 3(1)(b)(v) of the Bill, which says that the Bill will apply if "the person who consented to the fertilisation procedure" is domiciled in Singapore on the date of the birth of the child. For the purposes of clauses 7 and 8, both the husband as well as the "de facto partner" are already covered under (b)(ii) and (iii), so I am not quite clear which group (b)(v) would cover. And in the interest of ensuring clarity of the law, could I invite the Minister to shed light on this, please? Page: 95 My fifth and final point is about clause 16, which makes a related amendment to section 114 of the Evidence Act, and clause 17, which makes a related amendment to section 3 of the Legitimacy Act.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, thank you for letting me speak on the Bill. I just have five brief points for the Minister to consider. First is on clause 9 of the Bill which deals with IVF mix-up situations. I compared it against the four other alternative options put forward in the Ministry of Law's 2012 Public Consultation Paper, and in my view, the current option put forward in this Bill strikes as good a balance as possible between securing certainty on the one hand, both for the parents and the child and, on the other hand, retaining flexibility in the form of the court's discretion to Page: 94 achieve an outcome in the best interests of the child. It also sits more comfortably with the general nature of our social fabric: we are still largely an Asian, traditional society. Alternative option 4, for instance, which could result in a child having as many as four legal parents because of an IVF mix-up would, in my view, fit rather poorly in our context. Sir, my second point is about the two-year limitation period for making applications to court to determine or challenge the parenthood of the child, set out in clauses 9(4) and 15(3). This two-year period is determined from the time that the IVF mix-up is discovered. Sir, this could happen anytime and when the child is at any age. I would imagine this could suddenly create a lot of uncertainty and anguish for the people affected, including many adults, who were conceived out of IVF, since IVF has been around for over two decades. Would it not be better to let this two-year period run, but with a cut-off for all interested persons when the child at the centre of the mix-up reaches a certain age, say, 21 years of age? And after that age, only the child alone can make such an application.”
“For the community and the public at large, groups, such as the religious rehabilitation group, can certainly help with education. Also, Sir, how are we preparing and adapting to the use of more cyber techniques and channels in abusing financial institutions, organisations and individuals in terrorism-related offences? Finally, I would like to bring up a point pertaining to the 2012 Country Reports on terrorism and the comments made on our counter-terrorism cooperation with other countries. It was described as "inconsistent and masked by a transactional mindset". The report also criticised our bilateral and multilateral engagements on counter-terrorism intelligence and law enforcement cooperation. I personally feel this is inaccurate and an unfair view which reflects the lack of depth of understanding of our approach and strategies which focus on mutual trust and respect between nations. In fact, Sir, by debating and passing this Bill today through Parliament for implementation, it is yet another platform to show our alignment, commitment and how we are a party to the global counter-terrorism efforts, from every angle and perspective. With that, once again, I support the Bill. 4.32 pm Page: 67”
“I also stand as someone who has been up close and personal with victims and casualties of acts of terrorism. I was in Afghanistan treating casualties after September 2001. I also managed casualties from the Bali bomb blast and the Jakarta bomb blast, for example. Therefore, understandably, I support the stricter penalties. We, indeed, have to put forth our stand that we mean business and are extremely serious on matters related to terrorism. Pertaining to the fines and penalties for the terrorism funding offences, can I just clarify the following? What will happen if the funding comes from an Page: 66 overseas entity or institution? What will be the processes involved? Do we have any arrangements in ASEAN for cross-border cases? As countries which are a party to the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism, are there certain courses of action, cooperation, legal assistance or even extradition that we have with other states? Also, what are the platforms for countries, signatory to the Convention, to share best practices? Do we share some common electronic reporting filing system, collate resources and perform surveillance on suspicious activities related to the subject? I also feel it is crucial for the Ministry to engage financial entities and institutions with regular and systematic audits and visitations or seminars to help educate and create awareness and, hopefully, deterrence. Our local policies and MAS' guidelines and audits are certainly steps in the right direction. Reinforcements are certainly necessary, and compliance and proper behaviour in accordance with these are also important to be reinforced at appropriate times.”
“So many examples of Internet self-radicalisation and Internet-based fermenting of hate abound that policymakers around the world worry over how to effectively tackle this problem. How will we in Singapore handle this? Can we proactively block Page: 65 access or make access to such sites that promote terrorist self-radicalisation difficult? And would funding, financing or establishing such websites amount to a violation of TSOFA? [Deputy Speaker (Mr Seah Kian Peng) in the Chair] My last point is a more general one. It has been more than a decade since the 2001 New York Twin Towers bombings and the uncovering of the Yishun MRT bomb plot right here in Singapore. Terrorists look for soft targets to achieve maximum dramatic effect, and, like any other city in the world, we have so many of such soft targets. While we continue to actively police and protect such installations, can I ask the Minister the following: Firstly, how can we continue to exercise the highest levels of diligence and alertness day-after-day when we protect and police civilian areas, such as MRT stations, airports, bus depots, shopping malls and so on? How do we prevent complacency or a false sense of security from setting into our people and our security forces? Secondly, what is the state and level of Singapore's cooperation and engagement with key law enforcement and anti-terrorism agencies worldwide? As we would all know, we cannot, in Singapore alone, contain the problem of terrorism. It is a global effort. Finally, how ready and how resilient are we in Singapore in the event of catastrophe? Are our contingency plans ready, comprehensive and fully practised? With that, Sir, I support the Bill. 4.29 pm Assoc Prof Fatimah Lateef (Marine Parade): Mr Deputy Speaker, I stand in support of the Bill.”
“I move on to my second broad point, which is this: tough and rigorous laws such as these are important, but what is far more important is the ability of our security forces to detect violations and to prove them evidentially before our courts. A few sub-questions: firstly, how extensive and rigorous is our sentinel watch over financing activity taking place in Singapore, as well as through Singapore? Apart from the typical financial institutions, such as banks, finance companies and insurance companies, do we also monitor moneylenders, pawnbrokers, remittance agencies, informal and traditional money transfer agents, property agents, and so on? Both Ms Sylvia Lim and Ms Foo Mee Har have earlier described the complex and imaginative ways in which financiers seek to move funds across borders. How confident are we in our financial centres in Singapore that money flowing into Singapore to finance terrorism here or in the region will be caught? Do we impose requirements that these entities conduct checks and screenings and put in place due diligence systems to weed out suspicious transactions? Secondly, is the Minister able to share with this House how many investigations and convictions have taken place under the TSOFA or similar terrorist financing offences under the United Nations (Anti-Terrorism Measures) Regulations? Thirdly, how do other countries rate Singapore's ability to tackle this problem of terrorist financing? How have our latest mutual evaluation results been under the FATF framework? Are there any major gaps identified through mutual evaluation that we need to plug in the context of anti-terrorist financing, as well as our compliance with the Special Recommendations? My third point is about terrorism and the Internet.”
“Firstly, the Ministry says that it wishes to bring the penalties in line with the general money laundering offences in the Corruption, Drug Trafficking and Other Serious Crimes (Confiscation of Benefits) Act, or CDSA for short. While there are certainly similarities between both types of offences, my view is that terrorist financing activities are, without doubt, far more serious than general money laundering offences, and should, therefore, be treated as such. Secondly, I looked at some foreign legislation. In the United States, under Title 18 of the US Code, the maximum penalty for financing terrorism is a jail time of up to 20 years, or double our maximum, or fine, seemingly indeterminate, or both. Thirdly, given how open Singapore's economy and financial system are, the number of foreign corporations and financial institutions operating here, and the difficulty of detecting terrorist financing activity, given the speed and complexity of the world of finance, I think the maximum penalties against corporate entities are still considered low. Some may well be prepared to run the risk, in light of the gains that may potentially be made dealing with funds of murky origin. Page: 64 I, therefore, urge the Minister to further review the overall penalty framework at the next amendment. For instance, let the court determine the amount of fine based on the circumstances, rather than prescribing an artificial ceiling. Or, if a ceiling is preferred, let it be $X or a multiple of the value of the assets involved or profits gained or potentially gained out of such activities, whichever is higher. And let the gains be separately disgorged and confiscated in their entirety, over and above these fines, through quasi-civil action.”
“Mdm Speaker, despite more than a decade of counter-terrorism activity and tighter enforcement cooperation around the world, the recent unprecedented closure of US embassies in the Middle East and Africa, and the shock of the Boston Marathon bombings remind us how alive and real the threat of terror still is. Upstream measures, such as tackling and disrupting the financing and support of potential terrorist activity, remain vital in the fight against terror. I, therefore, support the Bill, which aims to strengthen the legal framework against terrorist financing. Page: 63 I just have a few points to make for the Minister's consideration. The first broad point is on clause 3, which introduces higher penalties via the new section 6A. Previously, an individual who engages in terrorist financing activities prohibited under sections 3 to 6 of the Terrorism (Suppression of Financing) Act ("the TSOFA") would face, per charge, a maximum 10-year jail term, or a maximum fine of up to $100,000, or both. But, for a corporation, it would only face a fine of up to $100,000, although directors or executive officers complicit in the offence would potentially face an imprisonment term. Clause 3 raises the maximum fines for individuals to half a million dollars and, for corporations, up to $1 million. While this enhancement is definitely in the right direction, given that these terrorist financing offences are carried out with the intention or with the knowledge that terrorist acts will be carried out, I would share Mr Dhinakaran's point made earlier, that the maximum penalties are still considered low.”
“I thank the Senior Minister of State for the reply. The Government cannot conceivably stock up every item for every possible contingency. It would be useful to have certain powers to act quickly and decisively in the event of a run on certain essential items depending on the circumstances without having to invoke the Control of Essential Supplies Act which sends a very strong signal that it is a serious emergency. Would the Ministry consider including such provisions, say, in the Competition Act?”
“For instance, the school drama club could affiliate itself formally with an amateur or professional theatre group. This is a win-win situation: the school drama club benefits from working with professionals, while the professional group gets a "youth wing". After they graduate, if drama remains their passion, the students can join the theatre group where there are already familiar faces. The third possibility is to gradually move the centre of gravity of CCAs out of schools altogether and into the wider community. For instance, students who want to play sports can join the Singapore Sports Council's many sports clubs and associations. This will be very much like the Singapore Sports Council's Super Sports Club concept which was announced sometime ago. And those who wish to serve the community can join VWOs in the neighbourhood. To do this would, of course, require investing significantly in our community sports groups, which is actually a good thing. The advantage of such a framework is that students grow up with the group and never really "graduate" from it. So, it becomes a continuum, part and parcel of life, and they also meet with people from outside school and from other backgrounds and it fosters a more inclusive society. I hope MCCY could consider these.”
“Madam, our youths are most active in the arts, sports and the community when they are in school. This is because our schools offer a very wide range of activities. CCAs and CIP are part and parcel of the school curriculum and, when students join a CCA, they are surrounded by familiar faces – friends and teachers. But participation tapers off sharply once they finish school, enter institutions of higher learning, start work, or get married. This is largely due to time pressures and work and family priorities. But there are many other possible factors, for instance, accessibility to activities, and the inevitable apprehension about joining a group of strangers, amongst others. There are significant benefits if our youths remain actively engaged in the arts, sports and the community well beyond their school years and into their adult life: character building and all-rounded personal development; richer and more fulfilling lives; personal health and well-being; creating a way of life where work-life balance becomes the accepted norm; and a more inclusive and active community. I, therefore, urge MCCY and MOE to consider leveraging up on the CCA framework in schools to make paradigm shifts to encourage and support youth participation beyond the school gates and into the community. Page: 83 Here are three preliminary ideas, two incremental, and one a bit more radical. The first idea is that schools should encourage their CCA groups to work more actively with community and professional groups to build up linkages and networks. For example, service learning clubs can do more with more ad hoc projects with VWOs in the neighbourhood. The second idea is to establish firmer and more permanent links between school CCA groups and groups outside school.”