Desmond Tan
Singapore
“Here, I would like to thank MOM and our tripartite partners for their attention to maintaining workplace fairness, particularly their focus on seniors.”
“And he went on to say that, "as unionists of unions affiliated with NTUC Singapore, we have never flinched from raising our concerns and advocating for our members' rights for better wages and for better work prospects and welfare.”
“As shared by Mr Lee Kuan Yew at a mass rally in Geylang Serai in 1959 and, thereafter, repeated at the NTUC’s 50th Anniversary Dinner in 2011, and I quote, “In Government, I have never forgotten that it is in the interests of workers and their unions that we must strive for growth and development.”
“Mr Speaker, we have not detected an uptick in unlicensed moneylending, or UML, cases since October 2021. Between October and December 2021, there were 917 cases of UML and UML-related harassment cases reported. This was an 8% decrease, compared to the same period in 2020. The Police take a tough stance against UML activities.”
“There are approximately 13,000 households who have electricity accounts in arrears and 150,000 households who have water bills in arrears. Of these 150,000 households, about 1,200 have arrears of at least $250.”
“I thank the Member for the suggestion. Indeed, the Police do monitor the current trends, but I would like to, first of all, say that we think the current situation of unlicensed moneylenders is under control.”
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“I would also like to say that you have made a very serious allegation of the mishandling by Police in the House through your speech and we take this seriously. We would like to have the details so that we can look into it and not just have this swept aside. I know that it is not going to be easy for you or even for the victim to go through this. But from the Police's point of view, you have just made a very important allegation and we would like to have the details to look into it further.”
“I had requested that if you have specific questions or requests for information, you should file a proper Parliamentary Question so that we can provide the data to you properly.”
“Thank you, Mdm Deputy Speaker, for allowing me to make a clarification to Member Raeesah Khan, who made a reference during her speech about mishandling in a case by the Police of an investigation involving a sexual victim. I would like to seek some clarification from her in terms of the details because we take this very seriously. Any form of questions raised about how the Police have handled or mishandled this case should be investigated. I would like to request for her to provide us more details so that we can investigate this issue. Secondly, we also noticed that she has raised quite a few questions just now about information as well as suggestions about how this case has to be handled and also, even through this one incident, suggested that the Police have to improve their training. For such questions, we would like to request that she gives us specific details, even through a Parliamentary Question, so that this can be looked into and we can give her a proper answer for these questions.”
“Mdm Deputy Speaker, the Bill is an important piece of legislation which allows the SPF to continue to keep Singapore safe and secure. That the vast majority of residents in Singapore feel assured that they can walk home safe at night is not a matter of chance or coincidence. It is a result of decades of effective policing, supported by robust laws. I thank Members for their strong support for the Bill. Let us continue to keep Singapore safe and secure. Madam, I beg to move. [(proc text) Question put, and agreed to. (proc text)] [(proc text) Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. (proc text)] [(proc text) The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. – [Mr Desmond Tan]. (proc text)] [(proc text) Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. (proc text)]”
“These actions include suspending or revoking the authorisation for the creation of an APF as well as the imposition of financial penalties on the APF employer. Mr Desmond Choo also asked if section 88 in clause 22 of the Bill applies to entities and persons with indirect control over the board of the APF employer. I stated earlier that clause 22 will require a person to seek the Minister's approval before becoming an indirect controller as defined in clause 17 of the Bill. As Mr Raj Joshua Thomas has also commented on the controller requirements, I would like to reiterate that the requirements are for a person to notify the Commissioner after becoming a 5% controller of an APF employer and to seek the Minister's approval before becoming a 25%, 50% or indirect controller or ceasing to be a 50% or 75% controller. Mr Desmond Choo cited the example of a company with a controlling stake in the parent company owning the APF employer. If such control involves the holding of equity interest or control of voting power in the APF employer, then, depending on the facts, this may fall under the definition of a 5%, 25%, 50% or 75% controller in clause 17. Mr Raj Joshua Thomas commented on clause 20 of the Bill, which makes it an offence for a person, who is not an employer of an authorised APF, to carry out any security activity in the course of any business. I would like to clarify that this is not new. Such a provision is currently covered under the existing section 86(9), but we have updated the penalties. I would also like to assure Mr Raj Joshua Thomas that SPF will continue to work closely with the APFs to prevent any infringement of the PFA and Private Security Industry Act (PSIA) in advertising their armed and unarmed services.”
“For example, SCDF officers are protected from liability for acts done in good faith and with reasonable care in the execution of the Civil Defence Act and the Fire Safety Act. For Prison officers, they are currently not explicitly protected in legislation although they are already covered under the common law defence of necessity. MHA will likewise consider making explicit this protection for Prison officers and other Home Team officers in their relevant legislation where opportune, just as we have done so in the PFA for Police officers and the Civil Defence Act for SCDF officers in 2018. Next, Dr Shahira Abdullah had suggested that persons who manufacture Police uniforms or insignia should seek the Commissioner’s written permission. To clarify, SPF already has in place a transparent framework to regulate the market for Police uniforms or insignia. None of these permissions are given verbally and all are written in black and white. For example, persons who wish to manufacture Police uniforms are required to bid for an open tender. Those who are successful are subject to conditions in the contract, which include the specifications of the uniforms they are allowed to manufacture. Should a person manufacture Police uniforms without the Commissioner’s permission, he will be liable for a fine not exceeding $10,000 or jailed for up to three years, or both. Next, Mr Desmond Choo asked about legal liabilities for Auxiliary Police Force (APF) employers that infringe sections 87(5), (7) and (8) in clause 21 of the Bill. The existing section 90 already allows the Commissioner to take certain actions if an APF employer infringes any provision in Part IX of the Police Force Act (PFA), which includes clause 21 of the Bill.”
“Mr Desmond Choo also asked for examples where officers did not act in good faith and with reasonable care. In general, such cases are few and far between. But that said, I can give two hypothetical examples. First, if Police officers receive a tip-off that a suspect of a crime is in a building and immediately effect forced entry to arrest him without even first attempting to verify if he was actually inside, the Police officers would not have acted in good faith and with reasonable care. Another example is if a Police officer fails to respond to and investigate a 999 distress call by an individual known to SPF as being the target of repeated physical domestic violence and the individual dies from injuries from the abuser. I want to emphasise that the protection that we will be according to officers is not unconditional and is subject to them acting in good faith and with reasonable care. Making explicit this protection in law will allow our officers to more effectively carry out their duties, such as preventing crime or saving lives, without the distractions and the constant concerns about getting sued or being held liable for injuries or damage to property. To address Mr Desmond Choo’s question on whether superiors will be held liable if their subordinates did not act in good faith and with reasonable care, this will very much depend on the facts and circumstances of the case, such as whether the superior had knowledge or control over his subordinate’s actions at that point in time or could reasonably be expected to be able to stop or influence his actions. Mr Sharael Taha asked if this protection will be extended to Prison officers and other Home Team officers. To clarify, many of our Home Team officers already have protections from liability under other legislation.”
“The Commissioner may take this into consideration when assessing the notice of resignation, along with other factors, such as SPF’s manpower situation and needs. Should a Police officer’s notice of resignation be rejected, SPF will internally assess his ability to serve in the roles assigned to him. If need be, he may be redeployed in other roles within SPF to more effectively carry out duties. Mr Louis Ng also asked about SPF’s plans to ensure that SPF will be adequately staffed to withstand crises. During major crises which require more frontline officers, SPF may redeploy more regular Police officers and full-time NSmen from back-end roles to serve at the frontline. SPF may also recall and mobilise operationally-ready NSmen, Volunteer Ex-NSmen and Volunteer Special Constabulary Officers. The wealth of experience these officers have acquired over years of NS and volunteering will help SPF in its efforts to effectively overcome the crisis. Moving on, I will touch on protecting officers from liability for acts done in good faith and with reasonable care. Mr Desmond Choo asked about the regulations that the Minister for Home Affairs may prescribe in determining what constitutes "good faith and reasonable care". Such matters and circumstances may include the operating environment in which the officer is acting, the standards and practices the officer has to follow and the resources to which the officer has access to. MHA will be prescribing these in subsidiary legislation to allow for greater flexibility to make refinements over time, given our officers’ constantly changing operating environment and standards in response to the ever-evolving security landscape and threats. More details will be ready in due course, when the subsidiary legislation is formulated.”
“Activation orders are only given when a serious incident has occurred, such as a terrorist attack. Police officers may decide to resign during a crisis for a variety of reasons. In assessing whether to accept or reject a notice of resignation, the Commissioner may take into consideration the reason behind the resignation. For example, if it is due to the Police officer having a medical condition that does not allow him to serve in SPF, the Commissioner will likely accept this resignation. Mr Louis Ng also asked if Police officers who have indicated their unwillingness to stay in SPF should be retained. First, I would like to assure the House that our Police officers are extremely dedicated to their duties and I have no doubt that they will rise to the challenge, especially during a crisis. While we do not wish to retain anybody who does not want to serve, we also have to balance against the needs of the society during times of emergency. This is especially important to prevent a scenario where there could be mass resignations that would compromise SPF's operational efficiency in responding to the crisis. Mr Gan Thiam Poh suggested creating an appeal board to preside over appeals against rejections of notices of resignation and to be redeployed to perform other duties. Given the fast-paced, uncertain and dynamic nature of a crisis, it may not be prudent or even feasible for appeal boards to convene in the thick of the crisis. But that said, we recognise that there may be Police officers who desire to serve the nation and support the efforts to overcome a crisis in other ways, such as in the healthcare sector instead.”
“This enables SPF to be more diverse, agile and open to transformation and to better achieve its mission of ensuring the safety and security of Singapore. That said, I would like to assure Ms Sylvia Lim that the intent of clause 5 of the Bill is not to allow civilian officers to exercise the Commissioner's powers of command at the frontline. We recognise that there are powers which require the specialised knowledge of a Police officer who has had years of experience with policing, such as the power to disperse an unlawful assembly by military force. These powers are best exercised by the Commissioner or the Police officers in leadership positions and will remain that way. Mr Sharael Taha also asked if the Commissioner will delegate the power to investigate commercial, financial and cybercrimes to civilian officers, given the recent uptick in such crimes. I want to clarify that SPF’s Commercial Affairs Department already has civilian officers who have the powers to investigate such commercial and financial crimes. This allows the SPF to draw from a wider pool of skillsets, in order to bring perpetrators of such crimes to justice. Many Members raised questions about retaining the employment of regular officers during major crises. Mr Louis Ng asked under what circumstances the Commissioner may refuse notices of resignation. To recap, as set out in the Bill, notices of resignation can be refused only under two situations. First, when the President has issued a Proclamation of Emergency under the Constitution, when she is satisfied that a grave emergency exists whereby the security or economic life of Singapore is threatened. Second, when the Minister for Home Affairs has given an activation order under the Public Order and Safety (Special Powers) Act.”
“The current intent behind clause 5 of the Bill is to allow the Commissioner to delegate more administrative powers, such as that to issue internal orders to civilian officers in leadership positions. To illustrate, the Director of the Commercial Affairs Department, who is a civilian officer, will be able to directly issue SOPs on managing suspects of commercial and financial crimes. Currently, he will need to ask a Police officer to do so on his behalf. Once this provision comes into force, he will no longer need to do so, thus improving operational efficiency. We want to assure the House that the delegation of powers will be carefully considered in the best way possible to achieve our desired outcomes. It is provided in law that highly sensitive powers which should only be exercised by the Commissioner himself will be non-delegable to either Police officers or even civilian officers. Clause 5 makes explicit that the list of non-delegable powers are those in section 18 and 110A of the PFA, as well as under the Public Order and Safety (Special Powers) Act (POSSPA). For example, this includes the power to give special authorisations to Police officers to impose curfew under POSSPA. Ms Sylvia Lim asked if SPF intends to allow civilian officers to take over command duties and if civilian officers will have the relevant expertise and credibility to do so. We would like to clarify that SPF already has civilian officers in leadership positions who assume command duties. For example, the current Director of the Commercial Affairs Department is a non-Police officer. The benefit of civilianising more leadership posts is that SPF can draw from a wider range of experiences, competencies and perspectives, beyond the pool of uniformed officers.”
“I would like to assure Mr Gan Thiam Poh that we take the safeguarding of video footages seriously. SPF has in place strict protocols governing the use and access to such data. Typically, SPF only shares data with other Government agencies if provided for under the law. These security measures help to guard against data breaches and the misuse of data. We note Mr Melvin Yong’s suggestion for SPF to have a more structured deployment scheme to better leverage the talents of our full-time and operationally-ready NSmen. When deploying officers to NS vocations, SPF already takes into consideration factors such as the officer’s skills and aptitude. To better leverage the talents of our NSmen, these officers are provided with multiple pathways within SPF. For example, officers with background in nautical studies may be deployed to the Police Coast Guard, while officers with expertise in photography may be deployed to the Public Affairs Department to create media content. When officers transit to become operationally-ready NSmen, they may be provided with the option to change their vocation based on their skill sets. For example, officers with a background in psychology may serve as counsellors in the Police Psychological Services Department. We will continuously review the deployment process to further improve the NS experience and to optimise our manpower. On empowering the Commissioner to delegate powers to civilian officers in leadership positions, Mr Sharael Taha, Ms Sylvia Lim and Dr Shahira Abdullah asked what type of powers the Commissioner will and will not be able to delegate to civilian officers. Mr Sharael Taha also asked about the circumstances under which the Commissioner will delegate such powers.”
“First, SPOs and CAOs will be required to undergo rigorous training and tests before they can exercise policing powers. For example, SPOs and CAOs will have to undergo modules on legal knowledge, self-defence and scenario-based training before they are deployed to the frontline. Second, SPOs and CAOs will be subject to similar safeguards which Police officers are already subject to, such as those under the Criminal Procedure Code. For example, when SPOs and CAOs arrest a suspect, the suspect must not be restrained more than is necessary to prevent his escape, in accordance with section 76 of the Criminal Procedure Code. Third, SPF has zero tolerance for persons who misuse or abuse their policing powers. SPOs and CAOs who were found to have done so will be subject to strict disciplinary action. For serious cases, they may be subject to criminal proceedings. Mr Gan Thiam Poh asked if SPF will equip all officers with body-worn cameras to mitigate the risk of wrongful accusations and misuse of powers and if such video footage will be kept safely to prevent cyber attacks and misuse. Currently, our frontline Police officers, including SPOs, are equipped with body-worn cameras to facilitate investigations and the gathering of evidence. Video footages from these cameras are also useful to address allegations of wrongdoing, such as the recent case where our Police officers were falsely accused of abusing their authority to confront an elderly lady in May 2021, when they actually were telling her domestic helper to remind her to wear a mask and even bought her a packet of food. For CAOs, we are reviewing the need to equip them with body-worn cameras, similarly, to aid investigations and prevent allegations.”
“Furthermore, should the Commercial Affairs Department encounter the need to use a higher level of force, they can leverage on regular Police officers in the Commercial Affairs Department who work alongside CAOs, as Mr Melvin Yong has suggested. Mr Yong also asked if CAOs will be required to undergo physical tests such as the Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) and be of a minimum Physical Employment Standard (PES), to exercise their new powers of arrest. The answer is no. We would like to clarify that the power of arrest is not new to CAOs. For example, they already have the power to arrest suspects of an arrestable offence under the Criminal Procedure Code. This Bill provides them with more powers of arrest which are relevant in their work, such as to arrest a person reasonably suspected to possess something which is fraudulently obtained. In any case, I would like to assure Mr Yong that CAOs are required to undergo rigorous training and tests on safely conducting arrests and self-defence before they are allowed to exercise this power on the frontline. For now, we assess that the training is adequate to meet our operational needs and it is not necessary to set an IPPT or PES requirement for CAOs. We would also like to share that this approach is consistent with other non-uniformed officers who already have similar powers to investigate white-collar crimes. For example, authorised IRAS officers, whose core duty is to investigate tax crimes, are empowered to arrest suspects of serious tax crimes. Mr Louis Ng asked if there will be safeguards and training for SPOs and CAOs. The SPF has multiple safeguards in place to ensure SPOs and CAOs exercise their new powers safely and in accordance with the law.”
“While CAOs will be given more powers of arrest, search and other administrative powers, they will not be given powers not relevant to their work, such as the power to seize offensive weapons. To elaborate on why we are according CAOs with more powers, I would like to provide a backdrop of our crime trend. In recent years, commercial and financial crimes have increasingly become an area of concern. Not only has there been an uptick in such crimes, they have also become more complex in nature. Therefore, it is necessary to equip our CAOs with more powers that are required to perform their duties, to enhance their operational efficiency. On Mr Yong's suggestion to deploy regular Police officers, CAD already comprises a mix of CAOs and regular Police officers, as Ms Lim has also pointed out. There are currently about 130 CAOs and 90 regular Police officers in CAD. These figures have remained stable in the last five years and the attrition rate for new CAOs has generally been low. Having both CAOs and regular Police officers in CAD better allows us to bring perpetrators of white-collar crime to justice, as SPF can leverage on CAOs' specialised knowledge in the areas of accounting and finance while tapping on the broader investigation skills that regular Police officers have acquired from investigating into a wide range of crimes. Given that CAOs have the mandate to deal with white-collar crimes that are typically not violent or confrontational in nature, we assess that there is currently no operational need to deem them as full-fledged Police officers. Hence, we will not be providing them with arms or with the full suite of policing powers, as I earlier mentioned.”
“There may, indeed, be instances when SPF will provide compensation for damage to property. However, such situations will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and will depend on the facts and circumstances of the case. Dr Shahira also spoke on whether Police officers should make forced entry in cases of attempted suicide and asked if these officers are given protection. We would like to clarify that Police officers already have the power to make forced entry for attempted suicide under sections 26A and 26B of the PFA. We share Dr Shahira's concern that such cases are highly complex. For this reason, SPF has officers who are specially trained to intervene in attempted suicide cases, to prevent harm and prevent the loss of life. Where necessary, the Crisis Negotiation Unit will be activated to render assistance. Police officers who make forced entry in cases of attempted suicide are already protected from liability under the common law defence of necessity and will continue to be protected in future for acts done in good faith and with reasonable care, when the new section 114A of the PFA comes into effect. Moving on, I will address Members' questions on according SPOs and CAOs with more necessary powers. Ms Sylvia Lim asked why we are providing CAOs with full policing powers. Mr Melvin Yong asked if CAOs will be deemed as Police officers and be armed, given that the Bill accords CAOs with more policing powers which come with additional risks. Mr Yong also asked about the number of CAOs in SPF and the attrition rate for new CAOs and suggested deploying Police officers in the Commercial Affairs Department to supplement CAOs. Before I answer Ms Lim's and Mr Yong's questions, I would like to clarify that we are not providing CAOs with full policing powers.”
“Mr Sharael Taha raised questions regarding what constitutes a medical emergency and how Police officers assess a medical emergency behind locked doors. Dr Shahira Abdullah also suggested having clear guidelines on when Police officers should reasonably suspect that a medical emergency has taken place, before making forced entry. Clause 7 of the Bill makes clear that a Police officer can make forced entry when he reasonably suspects that a person requires assistance because of any injury or poor state of health; that he is unable to enter the place; and is of the view that entry is necessary to protect the person's life, health or safety. This allows Police officers to make forced entry for a variety of medical emergencies, ranging from a stroke to a serious fall. Given that each case of medical emergency is unique and time-sensitive, instead of having prescriptive conditions, Police officers will take into consideration a variety of factors before making forced entry. For example, they look out for signs of distress such as audible shouts for help and seek more information from next-of-kin and neighbours to get a clearer picture of the situation. Mr Louis Ng and Dr Shahira asked if Police officers already receive training to equip them with the skills needed to attend to medical emergencies. The answer is yes. All frontline Police officers are equipped with basic first aid and CPR skills and are required to undergo regular recertification to ensure their skills remain up-to-date and relevant. Police officers are also instructed to immediately activate SCDF's emergency medical services where necessary. In cases where Police officers make forced entry and it turns out to be unwarranted, Dr Shahira asked if there would be proper recourse for the owner.”
“We also train our Police officers to react to situations where errant motorists might endanger the officers' safety. Our officers will take into consideration factors such as prevailing traffic conditions and perform risk assessments when conducting roadblock operations. On Mr Gan's suggestion to use hardier barriers, SPF will continue to review its procedures and processes to carry out roadblock operations in a safe and effective manner. Mr Gan also suggested that Auxiliary Police Officers, or APOs, can help to support SPF's roadblock operations, to better detect motorists who speed or drive in illegally modified vehicles. Currently, the SPF only deploys Police officers to roadblock operations. Roadblock operations are inherently riskier, as officers may come across crimes such as possession of weapons or drugs. Hence, it requires Police officers who have undergone the appropriate training to handle such serious cases. Next, Ms Sylvia Lim asked about the new offence which targets pedestrians near barriers in section 26 of the PFA. We would like to clarify that this provision is not meant to target pedestrians in relation to a roadblock. Rather, section 26(7) targets members of the public who fail to proceed and stop before reaching barriers or cordons meant to control human traffic and remain there until permitted to continue. This refers to cordons that are used to ensure the safety of bystanders or control human traffic near crime scenes or high security areas, rather than roadblocks for motorists. Next, on providing Police officers with the power to make forced entry in medical emergencies – a number of Members brought this up.”
“Given the high risks, the Bill increases the penalties significantly to strengthen the deterrence against roadblock evasion. Mr Desmond Choo suggested to introduce a mandatory minimum jail sentence for the offence of roadblock evasion. We agree with Mr Choo that motorists who evade roadblocks not only obstruct the course of justice, but also show disregard for the safety of other road users. That said, we reserve mandatory minimum jail sentences for the most egregious offences. For driving-related offences, those that attract mandatory minimum jail sentences are dangerous driving causing death or grievous hurt. Those offences involve death or serious injuries. While we agree with Mr Choo that evasion of roadblock can result in dire consequences, we do not think it warrants mandatory minimum jail sentences, at least for now. We will monitor the situation after the increase in penalties takes effect. Mr Gan shared his concerns about the safety of Police officers deployed at roadblocks and asked how many motorists at these roadblocks were detected for driving under the influence or having illegally modified vehicles. On driving under the influence, SPF detected an average of 700 cases per year from 2018 to 2020. On illegally modified vehicles, LTA does not have a breakdown of the number of cases detected at roadblocks, as they do not conduct roadblocks per se. Mr Gan also asked if SPF would look into introducing barriers made of hardier material to minimise the risk to Police officers. The safety of our Police officers is of paramount importance. For this reason, Police officers deployed to roadblock operations are equipped with reflective vests and traffic wands. Emergency light beacons are also set up in the area to ensure they are highly visible.”
“Mdm Deputy Speaker, I thank the Members for their views and for their support for the Bill. Please allow me to address their questions in turn. First, on roadblock evasion. Mr Gan Thiam Poh asked if the enhanced regime against roadblock evasion will apply to motorcyclists. The short answer is yes. The enhanced regime applies to all modalities of roadblock evasion and will cover all types of vehicles. Mr Gan also asked how many roadblocks were conducted in the past five years. Mr Gan and Mr Melvin Yong also asked how many cases of roadblock evasion were detected, resulted in serious injuries for Police officers, and whether it is necessary to raise the penalties for roadblock evasion when the offender can be charged for other offences like voluntarily causing hurt when their actions result in injury. From 2016 to 2020, SPF conducted about 8,000 roadblocks per year. There were 33 cases of roadblock evasion where the offender was convicted or issued with a stern warning. Of these, there were two cases where the roadblock evasion directly resulted in injury for Police officers. Motorists who deliberately evade roadblocks seriously endanger the lives of the Police officers as well as other road users in the vicinity of the roadblock. In instances where hurt is caused to Police officers, it is true that we can take action using general application provisions like voluntarily causing hurt to deter a public servant from his duty, or voluntarily causing grievous hurt. However, the action of roadblock evasion, by itself, is a serious and risky behaviour. We should not rely on the offender also committing other offences to be able to take the person to task.”
“On the third question about what MHA and SPF are doing in support of MOE and the schools, we have been working with the schools and MOE to implement, for example, the SGSecure movement; there is a form of security protocols. SPF will continue to work with the schools and MOE to strengthen the awareness, the checks on, as well as the response protocol for some of these weapons incidents and checks in the schools.”
“I thank the Member for the supplementary question. First of all, the question about tightening the supply and imposing an age verification for controlled weapons or even mixed-use items like purchase of axes and knives, this is something we will constantly review to assess the appropriate level of controls we want to impose, especially for mixed-use items like axes and parangs that have legitimate uses. On the one hand, we do not want to over-regulate. As I mentioned earlier, even for nefarious purposes, actually, access to kitchen knives and choppers can become a form of weapon. So, we have to find the right balance. We are currently considering requiring the e-commerce platforms, for example, as well as the brick-and-mortar retailers, to take reasonable steps to verify, do some age verification checks and ensure that those especially who are clearly underaged, do not have access to these items. We will share more details when we have them. On the second question about reporting suspicious transactions, we all recognise that, first of all, already requiring age verification is something that we would consider doing and there are some practical challenges there. It is even harder, sometimes, for retailers, especially online retailers, to understand or to verify the intent and the purpose of the purchase of legitimate items that are used for legitimate reasons. So, again, we will have to find the right balance and not to over-regulate, and to also be practical about this whole issue, while we understand the need to ensure that access to weapons is controlled especially for young children.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, in the past three years, 131 persons under 18 years of age have been arrested for possession of offensive weapons. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) currently regulates six weapons under the Arms and Explosives Act (AEA) – sword, spear, spearhead, dagger, bayonet, and certain dangerous bows and arrows. Persons who handle these weapons are subject to certain safety conditions. For example, sellers must maintain transaction records of such items and owners of such items must store them securely. In January 2021, MHA introduced the Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Act (GEWCA), which will replace the AEA when it comes into force in end 2021. Under the GEWCA, the list of regulated weapons will be expanded and subject to greater controls. In determining which items to include, we have to find an appropriate balance, as almost any item can be used as a weapon, including those used in daily life like kitchen knives and choppers. Highly dangerous items like guns and explosives must be tightly regulated as they can cause a lot of damage. For other mixed-use items like axes which have normal legitimate uses, we may want to impose some controls, but need to consider carefully exactly what, so that we do not over-regulate.”
“I thank the Member for the question. Our Police officers are trained to deal with different situations. Different circumstances may present obvious risks to the Police officers in terms of injuries. When they are injured in the course of their duty, which can happen from time to time, they would be taken care of by the Police in terms of the medical as well as personal recourse, in terms of how they are being taken care of in the Police Force. More importantly, we will also continue to support them in their duties which is what they signed up for. They always put the safety of the members of the public first, in the course of their duty.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, between 2019 and 2020, there were more than 400 reported cases of Police officers who faced verbal abuse or physical hurt while carrying out their duties. These include incidents where officers were challenged by disorderly members of the public. We do not track the number of cases where back-up officers were deployed. Depending on the situation, additional resources may be despatched to reinforce the on-scene officers to arrest the criminals, maintain peace and protect lives. Police officers are trained in a range of techniques to handle dynamic and unpredictable threats that they may encounter, including face-to-face conflicts. These include the use of verbal command, unarmed tactics, batons, tasers and firearms. The Police officers will evaluate the threat posed and take an appropriate course of action against the aggressor, taking into consideration public safety and their own safety and the aggressor’s safety as well.”
“Third, clause 22 will require a person to notify the Commissioner after becoming a 5% controller of an APF employer and to seek the Minister’s approval before becoming a 25%, 50% or indirect controller, or ceasing to be a 50% or 75% controller. These thresholds, which take reference from the legislation of other essential services sectors, ensure that only trusted agents can have the ability to influence and direct actions of the APF. Clause 19 imposes a requirement on APF employers to inform the Commissioner after becoming aware of such transactions. This provides another layer to detect any potential attempts to circumvent our reporting and approval requirements. There may be circumstances, such as public emergencies, where it is crucial that we ensure the continuity of security services provided by the APFs. Clause 24 provides for the Minister to issue a special administration order to allow the affairs of an APF employer to be managed by the Commissioner or an appointed person. This regime is found in other essential services sectors, to ensure no disruptions to the provision of these services. MHA will also update the penalties for offences and infringements in relation to APF employers and controllers. Finally, clauses 25 and 26 update existing powers to investigate and to make regulations, to reflect the changes in APF controls. Mr Deputy Speaker, with the evolving security landscape, our laws in relation to SPF have to be kept up-to-date, so that it is well-poised to tackle any challenges. Mr Deputy Speaker, I beg to move. [(proc text) Question proposed. (proc text)]”
“This was in consideration of the increasingly complex security environment, which required a larger pool of armed officers to step up security measures at various critical infrastructure and key installations. With the APFs providing support for such functions, SPF is also better able to focus on its core mission to prevent, deter and detect crime. We had stated then that it was necessary to ensure that only trusted agents may operate and manage APFs in Singapore. These considerations remain valid today, as Auxiliary Police Officers bear arms and are vested with certain powers to perform their functions effectively. They also have access to the sensitive locations where they are deployed to protect. Having reviewed the regulatory regimes of other essential services sectors and the prevailing operating environment, we felt that we should update the APF controls in the PFA, to ensure that the controls remain effective. Currently, the PFA requires an APF employer to obtain the Minister’s approval before the APF employer is acquired by any other person. The Minister’s approval is also required before one becomes a substantial shareholder of an APF employer. Going forward, we will make these controls more holistic. First, before a person acquires the business of an APF employer, clause 21 requires both the person and the APF employer to seek approval from the Minister. Second, clause 21 will require the chairman and directors of an APF employer to be approved by the Commissioner of Police, on top of the existing requirement for the CEO to be approved.”
“Next, currently, the PFA allows the Minister to make regulations for Police associations, such as the Police Central Welfare Fund, which advance the welfare of regular Police officers. Clause 28 allows the Minister to also include SPOs and civilian officers employed by SPF in Police associations. This is in recognition of the contributions that they make to support SPF in ensuring the safety and security of Singapore. Next, disbandment of the Vigilante Corps (VC). Currently, full-time NSmen and Operationally-ready NSmen in SPF serve in one of two Forces: they may serve in the Special Constabulary, where they perform the same duties as regular Police officers and have powers of investigation under Part IV of the CPC. Otherwise, they may also serve in the Vigilante Corps. Since the introduction of the VC in 1964, VC officers have made important contributions in supporting SPF to maintain law and order in Singapore. They mainly perform support roles and do not have any policing powers. Moving forward, MHA will be disbanding the VC and transferring all existing VC officers to the Special Constabulary. This gives our NSmen the opportunity to be deployed in a greater variety of roles in SPF. The Bill also makes minor amendments to streamline SPF’s administrative and human resources, which I will not go into further here. The Bill also strengthens controls over Auxiliary Police Forces (APFs), which provide armed security services and supplement the Home Team’s efforts in ensuring the safety and security of Singapore. The armed security industry was liberalised in 2004 to allow more APFs to operate islandwide.”
“This is broadly similar to how the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) can already retain regular servicemen for mobilised service upon a proclamation by the President pursuant to section 16 of the Enlistment Act. I will now speak about the second objective to improve SPF's disciplinary, administrative and human resources processes. First, clauses 8 and 15 increase the maximum fines for Volunteer Special Constabulary Officers and regular Police Officers below the rank of Inspector. This ensures our officers continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity and conduct. Next, today, SPF issues recall orders under the Enlistment Act to compel NSmen to report for disciplinary proceedings and NSmen can claim for loss in civilian remuneration. Clause 16 allows SPF to issue orders under the PFA to compel NSmen who have committed disciplinary offences to report for disciplinary proceedings without having to make up for any loss in civilian remuneration. This is because the disciplinary proceedings arose out of their own wrongful actions in the first place. Similar provisions for SCDF and SAF NSmen already exist in the Civil Defence Act and the Singapore Armed Forces Act respectively. Next, currently, the Commissioner’s approval has to be sought for the discharge of NSFs for reasons other than completing full-time service, even when the reasons are straightforward, such as the NSF having a serious medical condition or being transferred to the SAF or SCDF. To streamline this process, clause 13 specifies the conditions under which NSFs may be discharged from SPF automatically, without the need for the Commissioner’s approval. This aligns with the approach for Operationally-ready NSmen, who can already be automatically discharged under the same conditions.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, I would like to emphasise that the new provision will not mean that our officers can act with disregard. It only applies when our officers have acted in good faith and with reasonable care. Officers who act irresponsibly will be subjected to disciplinary proceedings or even criminal proceedings. Next, the Bill provides SPF with the legal power to retain the employment of regular Police Officers during a major crisis. Major crises may include a major terrorist incident or a large-scale, sustained public order incident. SPF would need to have sufficient manpower to manage such crises. Today, SPF can already mobilise SPOs under certain circumstances and require them to serve until they are demobilised. Full-time NSmen and Operationally-ready NSmen can already be retained for mobilised service upon a proclamation by the President under section 16 of the Enlistment Act. For volunteers, the Commissioner of Police can already mobilise them for active service under any circumstances under section 73 of the PFA, so long as the Minister’s permission is sought. However, SPF does not have the legal power to stop regular Police Officers from resigning in the midst of a major crisis. To make sure that SPF has sufficient manpower resources during a major crisis, clause 3 provides that the Commissioner may refuse a notice of resignation given during a crisis period. The Commissioner must be of the opinion that the officer’s service is necessary for the securing of the public safety, defence and security of Singapore. The definition of a “crisis” only applies when the President has issued a Proclamation of Emergency under the Constitution, or the Minister for Home Affairs has given an activation order under the Public Order and Safety (Special Powers) Act.”
“Examples include those under the Public Order and Safety (Special Powers) Act. Next, protecting officers from liability for acts done in good faith and with reasonable care. At times, Police officers have to make split-second decisions and take decisive action in order to save lives, even if their actions may result in injury or damage to property. Such time-critical and dangerous situations are often a matter of life and death and present themselves in high-stress environments. For example, if a patrolling Police officer finds a person in a crowded public place waving around a chopper in his hand and shouting at passers-by and, if the person becomes increasingly agitated, the Police officer might tase the person to ensure public safety. Here, the defence of good faith and reasonable care applies even if the person suffers injuries as a result, as the Police officer believed honestly and based on objectively reasonable grounds that his actions were necessary to prevent harm and the Police officer had adhered to the standard operating protocol for using a taser to restrain a dangerous and armed person. Clause 27 protects Police officers, SPOs, CAOs, Intelligence Officers and Forensic Specialists from liability for acts and omissions done in good faith and with reasonable care. When carrying out their lawful duties, our officers can already rely on the common law defence of necessity. But we want to give greater assurance to our officers and make it explicit that they have protection for acts done in good faith and with reasonable care under the law, so that they can carry out their duties with greater confidence. This is similar to the protection that is already accorded to other Home Team officers, such as SCDF officers.”
“For example, CAOs, currently, have the power to arrest suspects for an arrestable offence. However, if the suspect is unable to furnish bail and is subject to lock-up, CAOs will have to seek the assistance of Police officers to search the suspect to remove illicit items or items that may be used to facilitate escape or cause harm, prior to the lock-up. This is not an efficient process. Hence, clause 9 provides CAOs with more powers, such as the power to arrest persons who possess anything reasonably suspected to be fraudulently obtained, and the power to issue bails and bonds. There will be safeguards to prevent CAOs from misusing their new powers. Clause 9 makes it explicit that CAOs are subject to certain restrictions when carrying out procedures relating to arrest and search, such as the mode for searching women. These are the same restrictions which apply to Police officers. CAOs must also attend training and pass the requisite tests before they can exercise these powers. Next, empowering the Commissioner of Police to delegate his powers to civilian officers. Currently, the Commissioner can delegate his powers to Police officers in leadership positions. However, he cannot do the same for civilian officers in leadership positions, such as the Director of the Commercial Affairs Department (CAD). This hampers operational efficiency. For example, if the CAD Director wishes to issue Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on how to handle cases of specific commercial crimes to Investigation Officers, he will have to ask a Police officer to do so on his behalf. Clause 5 allows the Commissioner to delegate his and his Deputy Commissioners' powers to civilian officers in leadership positions. Some powers conferred on the Commissioner will continue to be non-delegable.”
“SPOs comprise four categories of officers – full-time Police National Servicemen, or NSmen; Operationally-ready Police NSmen; Volunteer Ex-NSmen; and Volunteer Special Constabulary Officers. In the PFA, our SPOs are vested with the same duties as regular Police officers. Like regulars, they have the duty to prevent and detect crimes, preserve public peace and protect persons from injury or death. However, SPOs, currently, only have powers of investigation under Part IV of the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC). This means that while they have the power to arrest a suspect or execute a search warrant, they do not have powers beyond investigations. These include the powers to set up roadblocks and search a person before they enter a high-security area. To close this gap, clause 10 provides SPOs with the same powers conferred on regulars. This will allow SPF to deploy SPOs to a wider range of operations. To ensure that these powers are exercised appropriately, SPF has in place robust safeguards. SPF will ensure that only SPOs who pass the requisite training can exercise policing powers and be deployed on the frontline. SPOs who are deemed unsuitable to exercise policing powers will be deployed to perform backend and administrative duties. This is already being done today. For those who misuse their powers, SPF will take strict disciplinary action. In serious cases, we will also initiate criminal proceedings. Next, providing Commercial Affairs Officers, or CAOs, with necessary powers. CAOs are public officers employed by SPF to investigate commercial and financial crimes. Currently, the PFA only provides CAOs with the powers of investigation under Part IV of the CPC. However, there are other powers which are necessary for their work.”
“It also creates an offence for persons who fail to follow a Police officer's order to not cross such barriers. Next, forced entry for cases of medical emergency. Police officers' powers to make forced entry are currently scoped to very specific circumstances, such as to perform rescue operations in cases of attempted suicide or to arrest suspects. However, Police officers would sometimes also respond to cases of medical emergency. In June 2021, SPF received a call from a resident who heard a weak voice coming from a nearby unit asking for help. A senior resident resided in that unit alone. When our officers arrived outside the unit, they could not hear any sounds, were unable to contact the senior or even his next-of-kin and were told by his neighbour that the senior had just returned home from the hospital that very morning. As the senior could have been in dire need of help, the Police officers decided to make a forced entry immediately. They discovered that the senior had fallen and was unable to move. Thanks to our officers' actions, the senior was able to receive help quickly and was conveyed to the hospital. Currently, in such cases of medical emergency, Police officers rely on the common law defence of necessity to make forced entry. To provide Police officers with greater assurance that they can make forced entry to conduct life-saving operations, clause 7 makes explicit that Police officers have the power to make forced entry of any place if they reasonably suspect that a person requires assistance because of injury or poor health. Next, on providing Special Police Officers, or SPOs, with the same powers conferred on regular Police officers.”
“Clause 6 will also expand the definition of roadblock evasion to cover more modalities of evasion. Currently, the offence of roadblock evasion only applies to drivers who physically dash through a roadblock with their vehicle. However, SPF has encountered cases where drivers evade roadblocks by other ways, such as reversing, making a U-turn or alighting from their vehicle and escaping on foot. In 2016, a motorcyclist stopped before a roadblock, abandoned his vehicle and fled on foot. While arresting the motorcyclist, a Police officer was injured. The motorcyclist was, eventually, convicted of voluntarily causing hurt to a public servant, unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of a controlled drug. However, no further action could be taken against him for evading the roadblock, as he did not physically dash through it. Clause 6 will make it an offence for a driver to fail to follow a Police officer's order, be it given by a spoken word, a hand signal, a notice or a sign, warning of the presence of a roadblock, to proceed towards a roadblock, stop, remain in the vehicle and keep the vehicle stationary until he or she is permitted to proceed. Next, on the set-up of barriers to control human traffic. SPF sets up various types of barriers to control human traffic, such as to prevent members of the public from entering a crime scene or high-security area. However, even though the PFA provides that SPF has the duty to take lawful measures to preserve public peace and prevent and detect crimes and offences, the PFA does not explicitly empower Police officers to set up these barriers. Clause 6 makes explicit Police officers' powers to erect barriers to control human traffic.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time". Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world. In 2020, Singapore was ranked top in the Gallup Global Law and Order Report for the seventh year running. This is, in large part, due to the Singapore Police Force, or SPF in short. The Bill seeks to amend the Police Force Act, or PFA, so that SPF can carry out its mission to prevent, deter and detect crime and ensure the safety and security of Singaporeans even more effectively. The amendments aim to achieve the following: first, to enhance SPF's operational capabilities and readiness; second, to improve SPF's disciplinary, administrative and human resource processes; and third, to strengthen controls over the Auxiliary Police Forces. Let me start with the first objective of enhancing SPF's operational capabilities and readiness. The Bill enhances the regime against evading Police roadblocks. Drivers who evade roadblocks endanger the lives of Police officers and other road users. In an ensuing car chase, for example, evading drivers often exhibit dangerous driving behaviours, such as speeding, running red lights and swerving in and out of lanes suddenly without warning. In 2017, a driver was instructed to stop at a roadblock. Not only did he not stop his vehicle, he dashed through the roadblock, which triggered a chase. He was sentenced to only three weeks' imprisonment for the offence of roadblock evasion. We were lucky that the driver did not cause harm in that instance to other road users and to our officers. In other instances, roadblock evasion has led to more serious damage to property and even injuries. To increase deterrence, clause 6 of the Bill increases the maximum jail term and fine for evading a Police roadblock.”
“I understand that MPA today, on average, sends out five garbage collection vessels every day and they have nine additional vessels to pick up the marine trash flotsam from the sea. At the regional level, Singapore, along with ASEAN member states, continues to adopt the Bangkok Declaration on Combating Marine Debris in ASEAN Region and the ASEAN Framework of Action on Marine Debris from 2019. We will continue to actively participate to address marine debris pollution and to contribute to initiatives and ideas that can help ASEAN's collective as well as individual capabilities to address the marine pollution issue. These are the existing measures. We recognise that despite all these regulations, there are still tonnes of garbage that are swept onto our beaches every day. These are important places that our residents and our people value. We thank the many community groups and individuals for stepping forward to keep these clean. NEA will continue to do its part to step up on the cleaning, especially during the monsoon seasons. One last point. I wish to mention that to better understand the marine litter situation in Singapore, NEA has recently embarked on a two-year study to gain a better understanding of the levels as well as the pathways of marine litter and micro-plastics in Singapore's inland waters, coastal waters as well as recreational beaches, which could then support recommendations for future marine litter and micro-plastics monitoring programme or initiatives. I want to caveat at this juncture that it is not clear if the study would be able to explain the causes or the origins of the debris but we think that is an important step forward.”
“I thank the Member for the supplementary questions. The bulk of our beach litter comes from the marine trash that are brought in by our natural tidal waves. Given that our monsoon seasons are twice a year, it does not really help. The Member did suggest maybe looking at the labels of the trash and from the labels, we probably can tell where it was made, but it is unlikely to be able to confirm where the litter is thrown from. I will take the opportunity to also explain what are the things that have already been done by the Government to try to minimise and reduce the marine trash and marine pollution. First of all, we have strict regulations on pollution control as well as waste disposal. This is both from the land-based inland waterways as well as from the ships from the sea, which are currently regulated by MPA. For land-based sources, NEA administers the Environmental Protection and Management Act as well as the Environmental Public Health Act that governs the discharge of polluting compounds and litter into the waterways such as plastics, chemicals and oil. Our waste management approach in Singapore also ensures that we properly dispose our waste and minimise any waste that is washed into the ocean. As for the ships, MPA is the agency that implements regulations to minimise marine pollution through the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea Act, or PPSA. Any form of disposal into the sea from the ship, is currently prohibited and any violation can result in fines or imprisonment. Ships are also required to maintain records of all their garbage and management plans for verification by inspectors.”
“I thank the Member for her question. I can empathise with the situation that the Member's resident is faced with. Specific to her question, today, chain operators already have a centralised information database, precisely for the purpose that the Member mentioned, for the sharing of information and to profile their customers. But I think the larger question that she is asking is, what are the customer due diligence checks that are in place? As I have mentioned earlier in my main reply, the Pawnbrokers Act requires pawnbrokers to take reasonable steps to ensure that the goods they deal in are not stolen or obtained through fraudulent or dishonest means. That would require the pawnbrokers to do the first step, to do the customer due diligence, through measures, such as obtaining and verifying the information and identity of the person who comes into the pawnshop, before any transaction has taken place. Some of the practices on the ground also involve the pawnbrokers asking questions about the cost, the ownership as well as specifications of the goods and even to ask for the proof of purchase and screening against the information they obtain from the Police. Even with all these, as I can see from the Member's question, there may be instances where owners have found these belongings that have been stolen landing in the second-hand dealer shop or the pawnshop. Members of the public who find themselves in these situations can then report these to the Police or lodge complaints with the Registry of Pawnbrokers under the Ministry of Law so that investigations can take place. 12.31 pm”
“The Ministry of Home Affairs does not track the number of reports from theft victims of their belongings being sold in second-hand shops or pawnshops. Second-hand goods dealers and pawnbrokers today are regulated under the Second-hand Goods Dealers Act (SHGDA) and the Pawnbrokers Act (PBA) respectively unless they meet certain exemption criteria or are granted a waiver. Under these regimes, they are required to take reasonable steps to satisfy themselves that the goods that they transact in are not stolen or obtained through fraudulent or dishonest means. These include verifying the identity of the person selling or pawning the item and screening the goods against the information furnished by the Police. In the event that any item is found to have been reported stolen or lost, the second-hand dealers and pawnbrokers are expected to detain the item and make a Police report without undue delay. Victims who find their belongings being sold in second-hand shops or pawnshops should also make a Police report. Upon receipt of a Police report, Police will look into the potential criminal offences disclosed and seize the item if necessary. Upon the conclusion of investigations, Police will seek an order from the Court to return the item to the victim. If there is more than one claimant, a disposal inquiry may have to be convened for the Court to determine which claimant is legally entitled to the item.”
“Mr Chairman, I thank the Member for the question. PUB has consulted the industry quite extensively on these minimum labelling requirements and we assess that the requirements will have minimal impact in terms of compliance costs. In fact, it is expected to be saving water and also save costs for the consumers as well. So, maybe I will just break it down into two parts because the first part is about the water closet flush valves which will only affect industry and not the residential part. So, in this respect, there is minimal impact to the industry as there are sufficient models out there that meet the minimum standard today. And water-efficient models are also not more costly than the less water-efficient ones. Just to also answer the Member's portion on whether those who are on one-tick, would they need to be replaced, the mandatory requirement will only apply if consumers wish to purchase new WC flush valve or replace their existing non water-efficient ones. So, there is no requirement for all existing flushes to be replaced. On the commercial equipment side, we have also done a study in consultation with the industry and, likewise, the impact is not high because there are sufficient models out there. And the cost, in fact, for the more water-efficient ones are even lower than their less water-efficient counterparts. Likewise, there is no requirement to replace all existing equipment washers if you do not meet the current requirement. It is only for those who are either replacing new ones or intending to buy new equipment.”
“Mr Chairman, I urge Members to support the work done by MSE, PUB and SFA, and to secure Singapore’s food and water supplies. Assurances on food and water security serve as social and psychological ballasts for Singapore as we build back better.”
“Last December, SFA allowed the company EAT Just, Inc. to sell its cultured chicken as an ingredient in nuggets in Singapore after rigorously assessing that all food safety risks have been addressed. With more novel food products being developed, Mr Gan Thiam Poh is spot-on in suggesting that more food safety assurances should be put in place. The new Act will provide greater legal clarity on the regulatory framework for novel foods, including mandating that a pre-market safety assessment must be done before approval for sale is granted. SFA will also inspect and sample novel food products for testing, as is being done for other food products. However, food safety is a joint responsibility with the industry and consumers. Food companies must ensure that their products are safe and fit for consumption. And to help consumers make informed food choices, the new Act will continue to impose existing requirements for companies to label the product packaging to indicate the true nature of the food. As pointed out by Ms Nadia Samdin, another trend accelerated by the pandemic is the proliferation of food delivery. While food delivery companies are not licensed by SFA as they are not involved in the food preparation or processing and thus have minimal risks of causing food contamination, they remain responsible for ensuring that the food is transported in a manner that does not compromise on food safety. This includes maintaining the cleanliness of the vehicle and equipment used for the transportation of food. SFA has been engaging food delivery companies on food safety practices and will explore Ms Nadia Samdin’s suggestion for these companies to indicate hygiene and cleanliness information on their platform.”
“This will help enhance our food resilience and create good business opportunities and jobs for Singaporeans. In addition, we will also work with local sea-based farms on ways to keep our sea spaces highly productive over the long term, including investing in advanced farming systems and monitoring impact of their activities on farming sites. To provide farms with greater certainty on the use of sea space, SFA will launch new sea space tenders on leases within the next few years. (In English): As our farms build capabilities and increase production, consumers can make a conscious choice to support local produce, which is fresher and lasts longer. SFA launched the SG Fresh Produce logo in 2020 to facilitate consumers in identifying local produce. A new “Clean & Green” standard for urban farms will be introduced this year, as a mark of assurance that produce is free from synthetic pesticides and grown in a clean farming environment using resource-efficient and sustainable practices. SFA will pilot two projects recommended by the Citizens’ Workgroup, where hospitals feature local produce in new mothers’ first meal after delivery, and wet markets will make it easier for consumers to identify local produce at the stalls. While most farms produce for the domestic market, SFA and ESG are also assisting them to secure market access overseas. As mentioned by Ms Nadia Samdin, the formation of SFA in 2019 brought various food-related functions under a single agency, allowing SFA to have better regulatory oversight of the entire food supply chain from farm to fork. To manage new and emerging food safety risks as the agri-food landscape develops, SFA will introduce a new Bill this year to consolidate and strengthen its powers that currently reside in several pieces of legislation.”
“Most of the approximately 100 coastal farms in the Straits of Johor adopt open-net cage farming techniques. SFA has been encouraging them to invest in technology to enhance productivity and resilience against external environmental risks. Farms are also encouraged to use fish feed that minimises impact on the marine eco-system, and tap on solar and tidal energy to power their farming systems. Farms can apply for the ACT Fund for their capital investments. And following feedback from farms, SFA will launch new sea space tenders on leases within the next few years to provide farms with greater certainty on the use of sea spaces. To ensure that our sea spaces can sustain high-yielding production over the long term, SFA will work with the farms to monitor the impact of aquaculture activities on farming sites and measures to manage the spread of fish diseases. SFA has engaged the industry to understand their concerns and we strive to uplift the sector, build food resilience and generate good jobs for Singapore. I echo Miss Cheryl Chan, Dr Lim Wee Kiak and Ms Nadia Samdin’s calls to build a new generation of agri-food skilled workforce. SFA is working with Institutes of Higher Learning and local farms on courses and structured internship programmes to equip students and adult job seekers with skillsets directly relevant to the agri-food sector. Mr Chairman, in Mandarin please. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] MSE endeavors to strengthen the production capability of our local farms and facilitate the transformation of the agri-food sector to ensure enough food supply for Singaporeans. SFA announced in October 2020 that it will be master-planning about 390 hectares of land in Lim Chu Kang and transform this area into a high-tech agri-food zone.”
“Five tranches of agri-land tendered out will progressively be operational in the coming years, and the first batch of Multi-Storey Carpark (MSCP) rooftop farms will commence production this year. Seven more HDB MSCP rooftops are currently being tendered for urban farming, while the tender for our sixth tranche of land sales will be awarded in the coming weeks. To ensure that we optimise our limited agri-land, SFA will masterplan around 390 hectares in Lim Chu Kang to create a vibrant agri-food hub that will anchor global and local best-in-class companies in Singapore. As Mr Don Wee suggested, we should co-create the masterplan with stakeholders including the food and non-food farms, nature groups, residents around the area. I have kickstarted a series of conversations with these stakeholders to better understand their needs and their aspirations for Lim Chu Kang, and we will continue these conversations through the year. With their feedback, we will also form dedicated workgroups to develop the masterplan, and these will be incorporated with the findings of the environmental baseline and topographical studies, when we launch the masterplanning consultancy in end-2021. We hear Mr Don Wee’s concerns about the impact to the livelihoods of affected farmers. Twenty-six farms have leases expiring and will be able to stay on until their leases expire, with most having a further short extension. We will continue to facilitate their transition plans, including feasibility of moving to indoor spaces. SFA will work with the industry to minimise any disruption to local production during this transition. Ms Nadia Samdin asked about the plans to unlock the potential of our local sea-based farms.”
“One successful recipient, Indoor Farm Factory Innovation is setting up a high-tech indoor vegetable farm with a vertical integration growth system of up to eight meters in height. I look forward to their vegetables hitting the shelves this year. To produce more with less, we must continue investing in technology. Under the $144 million Singapore Food Story R&D Programme, three Grant Calls on Sustainable Urban Food Production and Future Foods on Alternative Proteins have been launched. Award results will be announced soon. SFA has supported existing farms to achieve higher productivity through the Agriculture Productivity Fund (APF) since 2015. As of end-December 2020, $43 million have been committed from the APF to support 118 companies and farms. Homegrown company, Blue Ocean Aquaculture Technology, benefited from the APF to invest in the Recirculating Aquaculture System technology which enables it to farm fish in an indoor controlled environment and to recycle water within the production loop. The new $60 million Agri-Food Cluster Transformation (ACT) Fund replaces the APF which expired in 2020 and provides funding support for local farms over the next five years. On Ms Nadia Samdin’s question, the ACT Fund has been designed with several improvements over the APF. It will better cater to farms of different scales and development needs, from start-up to growth and expansion. It will have a higher co-funding quantum and wider scope in support of farms that adopt advanced farming systems which improve productivity and resource efficiency. SFA has also made more spaces available for our local farms.”
“PUB takes a zero-tolerance approach towards improper used water discharges and will not hesitate to prosecute errant companies because improper discharges pose health hazards to sewerage workers and cause disruptions to our water reclamation process. PUB's enforcement efforts are complemented by advanced sensing technologies to monitor these illegal discharges. The network of online volatile organic compounds monitoring units will be expanded from the current 40 units to 100 units by end-2021. One hundred and seventy-five trade premises will have microbial electrochemical sensors installed in their last inspection chambers, from 100 today, to alert PUB when excessive heavy metals are detected. These data help PUB more accurately identify high-risk trade premises and address emerging problems early. Mr Chairman, Singapore has developed a multi-pronged approach to ensure our food security, including import diversification, local production and stockpiling of essential food items. We also support local companies to expand overseas and export their produce back home. 2.45 pm In 2019, we announced our 30 by 30 goal to buffer Singapore from global disruptions arising from climate change. When COVID-19 hit our shores, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) responded quickly by launching the "30x30 Express" grant call to accelerate local food production. I am pleased to share with Ms Nadia Samdin that in September 2020, SFA awarded close to $40 million to nine companies out of the 40 innovative proposals received to boost local production of eggs, leafy vegetables and fish. While one farm has since withdrawn and another has yet to accept the offer, the other seven remain on track.”
“From January 2022, the Mandatory Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme or MWLES will be extended to water closets flush valves that are used in toilets in premises like shopping malls and offices. As a start, only those with a minimum two-tick efficiency rating can be sold. PUB will also introduce the mandatory minimum water efficiency requirements for three types of commercial equipment, namely washer extractors, dishwashers and high-pressure washers. Both schemes are expected to save about 0.72 million gallons of water per day, equivalent to 480 Olympic-sized swimming pools worth of water annually. Starbucks managed to reduce its annual water consumption, as an example, by 2% for its outlets that have switched to water-efficient dishwashers. Six hundred and forty-five cubic metres of water was saved in a year, equivalent to about a quarter of an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and they also saved $1,800 from their annual bills. I would like to assure Miss Cheng Li Hui that PUB will continue to minimise network water losses through smart and cost-effective measures, even though Singapore already has one of the lowest rates of water leakages in the world, with five leaks for every 100 km of pipes yearly. PUB will install 1,200 permanent leak detection sensors by 2021 to remotely monitor approximately 500 km of large water pipelines. Advanced leak detection tools, such as the SmartBall, will be propelled by the water flow within the pipeline to survey long stretches for leaks. Mr Yip Hon Weng stressed the importance of safeguarding our used water resources. Singapore is one of the few countries to close the water loop, returning used water to the system in the form of NEWater as well as industrial water.”
“Mr Chairman, MSE remains committed in ensuring our water sustainability and supply of safe food for future generations. Let me explain how we intend to do so, partnering businesses and Singaporeans. Even as we commission new desalination and NEWater plants, this infrastructure cannot keep pace with demand as our economy and our population grow. We must not let up on our efforts to conserve water. Household water consumption decreased from 148 to 141 litres per person per day or LPCD between 2016 and 2019. This increased to 154 LPCD last year with more staying home during the pandemic. We must continue to drive water conservation efforts to achieve our goal of 130 LPCD by 2030. Mr Yip Hon Weng suggested tapping on technology to enhance water use efficiency. This is what we are trying to do. PUB will commence the first phase of the Smart Water Programme from the second half of this year to install 300,000 smart water meters in new and existing residential, commercial and industrial premises in seven districts across the island by 2023. Consumers can monitor their daily water use and receive notifications and tips through the accompanying web portal. Alerts will be sent when abnormal water use patterns are detected, signifying potential leaks that need to be fixed. PUB will partner the non-domestic sector to increase its water efficiency, as the sector is projected to account for the major part of the total water demand by 2060, as noted by Ms Poh Li San and Mr Yip Hon Weng. With your permission, Mr Chairman, may I display some slides on the LCD screen.”