George Yong-Boon Yeo
Singapore
“Sir, I would hesitate to make it compulsory because that seems high-handed, and many Singaporeans, when they are overseas, rather prefer not to get in touch with us until they run into trouble. Then they scurry. And, really, in this age of the Internet and Facebook, it is not difficult.”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, we have to take these comments in our stride. What is important is that in Prime Minister Najib, we have a Malaysian leader who is decisive and who wants good relations with Singapore. Settling the POA was not a simple matter. It took a few years of careful negotiations.”
“We are fortunate to be located geographically, economically and culturally, smack right in the middle between China and India, the two most important centres of growth in the world today. But because our economy links us in a myriad ways to the world outside, every change in the world feeds back to us directly or indirectly.”
“These issues are raised at the international level from time to time. A few years ago, we had raised this at the United Nations (UN), and if it is necessary and helpful to raise this at the UN, WHO or any other international forum, we will continue to do so. Yes, we have been doing this.”
“I think the important thing is to be effective. It is not just to give emotional satisfaction to our own sense of hurt and grievance. The important thing is to be effective, and if we can be effective without commotion, all the better. But if we need a commotion, we will have a commotion. But the key is to be effective.”
“At the broader level, Indonesia has also announced a voluntary carbon emissions reduction target of 26% by 2020, and up to 41% with international support. These emissions reductions are slated to come, in large part, from the forestry sector.”
The complete record
Every one of 262 lines we hold for George Yong-Boon Yeo, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 1 of 6.
“Mr Chairman, Sir, we have to take these comments in our stride. What is important is that in Prime Minister Najib, we have a Malaysian leader who is decisive and who wants good relations with Singapore. Settling the POA was not a simple matter. It took a few years of careful negotiations. A lot of it quiet, a lot of it looking for win-win political and economic outcomes on both sides, and being mindful of the domestic commentary in Malaysia. The key was Prime Minister Najib's leadership and his relationship with our own Prime Minister. I believe this will continue. I once had a discussion with a Malaysian friend. I told him that we are more likely to have our elections before theirs. He smiled. We do not know yet when it is likely to be. And I hope, and I am quite sure, that both sides will win handsomely and that this good relationship will continue.”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, this is a big subject. The evolution of the Muslim Brotherhood goes back to the early part of the last century when it was established by al-Banna who was killed, and later on it came under Sayyid Qutb who was executed. It had a very rough evolution in Egypt and spread beyond. Sheik Qaradawi draws from that inspiration, although I am not sure if he considers himself a member of the Brotherhood. It has been suppressed in Egypt, prevented from forming a political party but, at the same time, allowed a certain space, and his influence has gone beyond. One mutation – one malignant mutation – became al-Qaeda, but there are others which have created moderate movements which hope that Muslim society within the framework of Islam, within the framework of Islamic values, can find a way to the future, be modern, be cosmopolitan, be able to operate modern financial systems, achieve constitutional democratic arrangements, and still be productive and a model for others to follow. I would say, today, we are seeing multiple efforts made worldwide to experiment and find possible ways into the future, and it is still an open question.”
“We never know in the future what new problems there will be and who will be in the chair. But whoever is in the chair has the responsibility to act, and all the rest of us have the responsibility to help the chair.”
“Ms Sylvia Lim asked an interesting question about the role of the ASEAN chair. The ASEAN chair is a very hot seat. And, frankly, I was quite relieved when we vacated that chair. In this particular case of Preah Vihear, the Indonesian chair did outstanding work, running around contacting all the member countries. I myself had two telephone calls, conversations with Pak Marty, who brokered an agreement. Right up to the last moment, it was not clear that there would be an agreement and details like what the unarmed observers would do and the terms under which they are embedded are still being worked out. Whoever is in the chair has a duty to respond. We were in the chair when the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) government in Myanmar was shooting monks demonstrating in the streets of Yangon. The Foreign Ministers were in the UN at that time, and we had to convene an emergency meeting and express our deep revulsion at what happened. We did not wish it. If there were no shooting of monks, we would not have come together in such a way. But we responded to the situation. In the same way, for two to three weeks after Cyclone Nargis, there was a stand-off between Myanmar and the international community. And aid did not go in. It was really criminal because of the prospect of the second wave of deaths from disease and hunger. We, again still in the chair, convened an emergency meeting, got everybody together, persuaded the Myanmar Foreign Minister that ASEAN had to be involved. I remember that lunch vividly. He said, "Let me call back my headquarters." An hour later, he came back and said "yes". He agreed to ASEAN's involvement. So a tripartite arrangement was established and that prevented a second wave of deaths in the Irrawady Delta.”
“Sir, I would hesitate to make it compulsory because that seems high-handed, and many Singaporeans, when they are overseas, rather prefer not to get in touch with us until they run into trouble. Then they scurry. And, really, in this age of the Internet and Facebook, it is not difficult. I get requests directly from Singaporeans overseas through my Facebook account. I help when I can, but sometimes they are not entirely reasonable. During the floods in Brisbane, one person e-mailed me to ask, messaged me on Facebook, if our embassy at Canberra could help clean up her sister's house in Queensland. But I told her we have a small Mission and it is not easy for us to do that. But by and large, the requests are reasonable and where we can, we try to help. I think what is important is that Singaporeans themselves organise self-help groups wherever we are, and make use of the technology available to keep each other in contact. 1.00 pm”
“We are fortunate to be located geographically, economically and culturally, smack right in the middle between China and India, the two most important centres of growth in the world today. But because our economy links us in a myriad ways to the world outside, every change in the world feeds back to us directly or indirectly. Every domestic policy we debate has an external dimension. If we move with the larger tide, avoiding the whirlpools, we will sail far and our future will be bright. The Chairman: We still have time for clarifications. Yes, Ms Ellen Lee.”
“But much more than that, changes in the Middle East can affect the geopolitics of the world, including the evolution of Muslim society in the 21st century. Ms Ellen Lee and Dr Lily Neo asked how MFA can provide better consular services to Singaporeans overseas. Singaporeans are travelling much more than before for work, leisure and education. Over the last 10 years, by air and sea, overseas travel has increased from 4.5 million to 7.3 million, an increase of 60%, not counting land trips to Malaysia which reached almost 24 million last year. As a result, the nature and scope of MFA's consular work has grown both in volume and in complexity. We encourage Singaporeans who travel overseas to e-register with us so that MFA can render assistance in an emergency. They can call or email MFA headquarters directly or contact our overseas Missions. We will try to help as best we can although our capabilities are limited. And it is nice from time to time to read the kind of letters that were sent to the Straits Times yesterday. Worldwide, we have 47 embassies and consulates, and an additional 27 consulates run by Honorary Consuls. They are not cheap to set up, so we have got to be careful in the way we establish new consulates. We do not have a presence in many countries and that cannot be helped. It is good that Singaporeans overseas are linking up among themselves, almost in an instinctive way. Sir, these are interesting times. As we move towards General Elections, it is right and natural that we are preoccupied with domestic issues. However, what we do in Singapore must take into account the profound changes taking place around us, in the region and the world. The simplicity of the bipolar or unipolar world no longer exists.”
“We have to adjust to changes as they take place not as we wish them to be. In some cases, we may have to cut losses; in others, there may be new opportunities. How Egypt moves forward will affect the entire Middle East because of its anchor position. It is good that the Supreme Council of the Egyptian Armed Forces which has taken over power from Mubarak has made clear that it will honour the peace agreement with Israel. If Al-Azhar re-opens as planned in a few days' time, our students may be able to return to their studies in Cairo before long. But we do not know how Al-Azhar itself will change as a result of political change in Egypt. For example, the return of Sheikh Al-Qaradawi to Cairo last week where he gave a stirring sermon at Tahrir Square, marked a turning point. Based in Qatar, Sheikh Qaradawi who was imprisoned a number of times by Nasser is one of the most important spiritual leaders in the Sunni world today. Our most important economic links are to the GCC countries Although they are not immune to change, it is less likely that the changes in these countries will be disruptive. But we cannot be sure how history will unfold in the longer term. And there are political risks which we have to weigh carefully. In general, Singapore enjoys a good reputation in the Middle East. We are often held up as a model of development by many countries in that region. We cherish the goodwill for us and will work hard to maintain it in a changing environment. Whatever it is, we have to be alive to the upheavals taking place in the Middle East because they are going to affect us one way or another. Already oil prices have shot up.”
“Since becoming free from Ottoman rule after the First World War, Arab societies have yet to find a clear way to the future and many experiments, like Nasser's socialism, have failed. It is much easier to destroy than to create. Whatever new model thrown up from the present turmoil must be within the framework of Islamic values and take into account the tribal nature of many Arab societies. There are widespread fears by both Muslims and non-Muslims that the Ikhwan Muslimin, the Muslim Brotherhood, will take over in some countries and impose a reactionary form of Sharia, maybe even become a supporter for international terrorism. However, we should avoid alarmist over-simplification. The Muslim Brotherhood itself has developed many tendencies and some are modernist. Turkey, which is not Arabic, offers an interesting model. And, of course, the greatest threat of terrorism is to Muslim society itself. The Middle East Peace Process is bound to be affected. While some Israelis will be confirmed in their view that any peace agreement with Palestinians and Arabs must be guaranteed by ironclad security for Israel, which really means no peace agreement at all, others know that failure to move towards a peace agreement may create an even worse long-term security environment for Israel. For Israel, with which Singapore has strong relations, there are no good options. Not allowing the Palestinian issue from further complicating developments in the Middle East is a major security and foreign policy challenge for the US. Singapore's economic and political links with countries in the Middle East have grown significantly in the last eight years. Bilateral trade last year reached an all-time high of $44 billion, an increase of 17% from the year before.”
“What we are seeing in the Middle East is history in the making. The downfall of President Ben Ali in Tunisia and President Mubarak in Egypt is not the end of the story by any means. In both countries, the army plays a major role in preventing Islamic extremists from taking over. Reforming institutions and creating new ones will take years. Constitutional democracies are not going to be established overnight, if at all. In Bahrain, the situation is complicated by the divide between the Sunni ruling class and a largely Shiite population. All the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries worry that unrest in Bahrain can create a serious rift between Sunnis and Shiites and give an opening to Iran. Bahrain is of course also hosting the Headquarters of the US Fifth Fleet. As for Yemen, it is a divided country with mostly Zaydi Shiites in the north and Sunnis in the south. The Zaydi Shiites are Fivers and they are different from the Jaffari Shiites of the Gulf and Iran, who are Twelvers. The Hadhramaut where most Arabs in Southeast Asia hail from is a distinct region of its own in the south of Yemen. The big fear about Yemen is its degeneration into a failed state that allows international terrorist organisations like Al Qaeda to fester. In fact, Osama Bin Laden's father came from Yemen. Libya is beyond the pale. Ghaddhafi's unleashing of indiscriminate violence against his own people has outraged the world. It is hard to see how he can remain in power for long. What is most worrying is his apparent willingness to bring the whole country down with him. It is right that the UN Security Council has acted against him. It is possible that the unrest will spread to other countries in the Middle East.”
“ASEAN's interest is the freedom of maritime navigation and in seeing that bilateral disputes are resolved peacefully in accordance with international law. In 2002, China and ASEAN agreed on a Declaration of Conduct. Unfortunately, we have not yet been able to agree on the Implementation Guidelines despite many years of discussion and, without these guidelines, we cannot draw up the Code of Conduct. However, we are hopeful that progress will be made this year under Indonesia's Chairmanship. As for the two giant pandas, they are scheduled to arrive early next year and will be displayed at the River Safari in the second half of the year. But if they do not produce babies, we will have a diplomatic problem. Mr Michael Palmer, Ms Indranee Rajah and Dr Mohamad Maliki raised a number of questions about the ongoing drama in the Middle East. Let me begin with the evacuation of Singaporeans. During the protests in Egypt, MFA worked with MUIS and our religious student association there, PERKEMAS (Perhimpunan Kebajikan Mahasiswa Singapura Di Mesir), to assist in the departure of 238 Singaporeans, 190 of whom were students in Al Azhar. Ten Singaporeans who were in harm's way in Libya have left Tripoli and we have just received a report of another Singaporean seeking to leave Tripoli, and are working to secure his safe departure. Apparently his Singapore passport has expired. Because of the large number of ASEAN citizens working in the Middle East, and there are millions of them, we have agreed among ourselves to help one another in whatever we can should the need arise. For the recent evacuation from Libya, where we have no Mission, the Malaysian Embassy provided us much assistance, for which I would like here to record our deep gratitude.”
“But I am not sure, in my response to Mrs Josephine Teo, whether we can interpose ourselves, because interposing ourselves in between two giants can land us in very tight situations. I think where we can be helpful we should try to be, and do no harm to that very critical relationship. Dr Teo Ho Pin asked about the status of our diplomatic relations with China and how China's growing economic and military strength will affect these relations in the future. Our relations with China are excellent. The official visit by Vice President Xi Jinping in November last year, making Singapore his first overseas visit after being appointed Vice Chairman of the powerful Central Military Commission of the Chinese Communist Party, was an expression of this. Our relations with China have broadened and deepened over the years, and our businessmen are now all over China, finding their own niches. Beyond political, economic and cultural cooperation, our Civil Service and the Central Organisation Department of the Chinese Communist Party also work closely together. The fact that Singapore is the only country negotiating an economic cooperation agreement with Taiwan without the Mainland objecting is also significant. As in previous historical periods, the growth of China's economy will bring prosperity to Southeast Asia. But as in previous periods, China will not be able to establish an exclusive position for itself in Southeast Asia. China is happy to have a friendly ASEAN that is also friendly with other major powers in the world, including the US. Competing territorial claims in the South China Sea are an issue. Such claims should be resolved bilaterally.”
“The US-China relationship is indeed the most important relationship in the world today and it is a relationship which will decide the question of war and peace in Asia, if not the world, for decades to come. Peaceful relations between the two powers would help keep the region stable. Deng Xiaoping once said that US-China relations can never be too bad because they share too much in common but they cannot be too good either because there are many areas where there are competing interests. And I think this is the margin within which we can expect the relations between the US and China to evolve in the coming years. 12.45 pm By all accounts, President Hu Jintao’s recent visit to the US was successful and stabilised relations at a time when bilateral disputes threatened to go into a downward spiral. President Hu and President Obama jointly described the relationship as a "cooperative partnership based on mutual respect and mutual benefit". Therefore, we can be cautiously optimistic that this cooperative partnership will continue for a long time and indeed China has repeatedly said it has no wish to be the No. 1 in the world, while the US has repeatedly assured us that it has every intention to stay as No. 1. Human rights will always be an area of contention but it is an area which the Chinese are handling in a more sophisticated way, claiming a reciprocal right to judge the situation in the US as well. The award of the Nobel Peace Prize to Liu Xiaobo has no doubt irritated the Chinese but really has no great consequence as the Peace Prize has become politicised in the eyes of many people in the world. Singapore has an equity interest in good US-China relations and will always weigh in that direction at all regional and international forums.”
“The Army continues to play an important role in the new constitutional arrangement. It was part of the problem, but it has to be part of the solution for the future. We welcome the release of Aung San Suu Kyi who is now free to meet people. We have been in contact with her through our Ambassador in Yangon. We earnestly hope that she will be able to help the people of Myanmar achieve national reconciliation. This requires both hands to clap. Both she and the government have to work together. And I understand that she is in a positive spirit. Over Christmas, I met the actress Michelle Yeoh whom I have known for a long time at a social dinner. She is playing Aung San Suu Kyi in a movie directed by the famous French director Luc Besson which will be released later this year. Michelle Yeoh met Aung San Suu Kyi in Yangon and told me that she was in good spirits. We expect the new government under President Thein Sein to liberalise the economy. In fact, the process has already begun and property prices in Yangon have gone up in anticipation of economic development. On various occasions, we have indicated our willingness to step up our assistance to Myanmar and help build up its administrative capacity through the Singapore Cooperation Programme and the Initiative for ASEAN Integration. I believe other ASEAN countries will do likewise. ASEAN has called for the lifting of economic sanctions by Western countries which, in fact, make reform of the economy more difficult. Over the years, Singapore has trained thousands of Myanmar officials and provided a range of assistance especially in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis. Mrs Josephine Teo asked for our assessment of US-China relations and the role Singapore can play in this relationship.”
“Under President Yudhoyono, Indonesia enjoys political stability, steady economic growth and growing global stature. From the beginning, Indonesia’s leadership has been critical to ASEAN’s development. This year, under Indonesia’s chairmanship, we can expect ASEAN to take a major step forward in the role it plays internationally. As a member of the G20, Indonesia participates actively in the reshaping of the global architecture. Singapore’s relations with Indonesia are very good. Although the Indonesian Parliament has yet to ratify the Extradition Treaty and the Defence Cooperation Agreement, which were negotiated as a package and signed by the two governments, both sides have agreed to put this issue aside for now and not let it affect bilateral relations. As for the supply of sand, the ban on exports remains in place. However, like the Extradition Treaty and the Defence Cooperation Agreement, this has not affected our overall bilateral relationship. Last year, Foreign Minister Marty and I exchanged the instruments of ratification for the boundary delimitation agreement on the western part of the Singapore Strait. We have agreed to commence negotiations on the eastern part between Changi and Batam. We also set up several working groups to enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism, cruise tourism, air connectivity, investments and other areas. We are also strengthening our links with Indonesian provinces. Dr Teo Ho Pin and Dr Lam Pin Min asked about developments in Myanmar and what Singapore can do to help. Following elections under the new Constitution last year, last November, Myanmar has a Parliament after a 20-year hiatus. The new President, Thein Sein, whom we knew well as Prime Minister before, is in the process of forming his Cabinet.”
“Several developments along the main railway line including the redevelopment of Silat Estate and the expansion of One North business park at Buona Vista will begin after 1st July. The only outstanding issue in the POA is the development charge issue mentioned by Mr Palmer. Both sides hold different views on whether the development charge is payable on the three original POA parcels in Tanjong Pagar, Kranji and Woodlands. We have agreed to treat this issue separately from the implementation of the POA and refer it to arbitration under the auspices of the Permanent Court of Arbitration. In this way, the development charge issue will not hold up the implementation of the POA. But it is not appropriate for me to comment on our chances because the matter is before arbitration. Other initiatives agreed between both sides in the Joint Statement of 24th May 2010 include the joint development of a rapid transit system link between Johor Bahru and Singapore as well as Singapore's handing over the waterworks under the 1961 Water Agreement to the Johor authorities free of charge and in good working order on 31st August this year. In addition, Khazanah and Temasek will set up a 50-50 joint-venture company to undertake the development of an iconic project in Iskandar Malaysia. Khazanah and Temasek are looking to launch this project in May 2011, and the details of the project are matters to be resolved between them. With the POA settlement, a new chapter opens in our bilateral relationship with Malaysia. We can look forward to more cooperation in different areas bringing economic and other benefits to Malaysians and Singaporeans. Ms Indranee Rajah asked about our relations with Indonesia.”
“2015 is not the magic date when things happen dramatically, but it is a red line which administratively we draw across all our plans for integration – political, economic and socio-cultural. I share Ms Sylvia Lim’s hope that the importance of ASEAN will be more deeply felt by our citizens, especially the young, and we need a multi-pronged approach including lessons about ASEAN in schools, sports and cultural activities, and greater use of ASEAN symbols. For example, the ASEAN flag will fly side by side with national flags at all diplomatic missions of ASEAN countries overseas from this year, probably from ASEAN Day this year, 8th August, the day before our National Day. Campaigning for ASEAN hosting of the FIFA World Cup in 2030 is a project which we hope will unite us in a common purpose. It is a long shot and we may fail, but just the enthusiasm and working together will bring us together. Mr Michael Palmer asked about the state of our relations with Malaysia, in particular, the progress of the Points of Agreement(POA) and cooperation on the development of Iskandar Malaysia. Our relations with Malaysia saw a breakthrough last year. Through the joint statements of 24th May and 20th September 2010, and the exchange of letters in September 2010, the two Prime Ministers agreed on the implementation of the POA which had been outstanding for almost 20 years. On 1st July this year, KTMB will vacate from the Tanjong Pagar Railway Station and relocate its operations to the Woodlands Train Checkpoint. This is a firm deadline. A schedule of implementation has been drawn up and work on some aspects of the implementation has already started.”
“ASEAN can help create an environment more conducive to bilateral negotiations between the two countries, and continuing ASEAN involvement is probably necessary. Ms Sylvia Lim asked whether ASEAN’s principle of non-interference in domestic affairs might not make such helpful activities more difficult, and whether every ASEAN country, in fact, has veto power over the ability of ASEAN to make progress in such matters. Well, it is a balance. While we acknowledge the importance of not interfering lightly in each other’s internal affairs, there are times when showing interest in the affairs of a fellow family member is not only necessary, but morally correct. For example, in the ASEAN Charter we have provisions to establish an ASEAN Human Rights Commission, which has been established. Some say it is toothless, and it may be toothless, but it certainly has a tongue, and the tongue has moral force. When we first embarked on this many years ago, there were fundamental objections from some ASEAN countries that we should never have such a Human Rights Commission. But little by little, as we took into account each other’s concerns, we were able to move forward. While ASEAN may work on the principle of consensus, ASEAN also works on the principle of peer pressure, and peer pressure can be very effective. And it is not easy for an ASEAN member country to take a rigid position when all the other nine countries are in opposition. And in Jakarta this time, even though the Thai position was initially against having observers being involved, in the end they relented and allowed Indonesia to send observers to both sides. As for achieving the ASEAN Community in 2015, that is on track.”
“What we must make sure is that air, sea and electronic links are also improved so that all countries in ASEAN, including archipelagic ASEAN, benefit from the growth of China, India and other countries farther away. The enlargement of the EAS opens a new chapter in ASEAN’s relations with the major powers in Asia. This is a challenge for ASEAN because big power rivalry can pull us apart if we are not careful. For example, while some international attention is helpful for peaceful management of competing territorial claims in the South China Sea, internationalisation of bilateral disputes will be disastrous. ASEAN can only stay in the driver’s seat if it is friendly to all passengers and take into account their interests. Mr Michael Palmer and Ms Sylvia Lim asked about the effectiveness of ASEAN in resolving bilateral disputes like the one between Thailand and Cambodia over land near the Preah Vihear Temple, and whether we are on track to achieving the ASEAN Community in 2015. Following armed clashes, the most recent a few weeks ago, Cambodia raised the matter to the UN Security Council, without Thailand’s support. The UN Security Council, after discussing it, passed the matter back to ASEAN to resolve, and this became a crucial test for ASEAN, because if ASEAN showed itself to be impotent, then all our grand pronouncements would be laughed at and come to naught. An emergency meeting convened by the Indonesian Foreign Minister, Pak Marty, in Jakarta on 22nd February succeeded in brokering a ceasefire which will be observed on both sides by unarmed Indonesian military personnel within an ASEAN framework.”
“To underline the importance of connectivity, ASEAN Foreign Ministers travelled by road last year from Mukdahan in Thailand, crossed the Mekong, through Laos, through some of the most heavily bombed areas during the Indochina War, crossing the Ho Chih Minh Trail, to Central Vietnam for our retreat in Danang. And it was good to see how with peace, local communities are flourishing, villages have become towns, and towns have become cities. 12.30 pm In January this year, as part of the celebration of 20 years of dialogue partnership with China, we crossed the Mekong near the Golden Triangle, trundled on fairly good roads over mountainous terrain in Northeast Laos before entering Xishuangbanna in Yunnan. From Jinghong, we caught a flight to Kunming to find Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi warmly welcoming us at the tarmac, standing in the cold. The following day, we reviewed the overall bilateral relations between ASEAN and China which are very good. And next year, we are planning a similar journey from Myanmar to Guwahati in Assam to mark 20 years of dialogue partnership with India. ASEAN Foreign Ministers are doing all this to send a message to ourselves and to others that we fully intend to link up within the region, and between the region to our neighbours. The land links between ASEAN and China are improving by the day. Next month, China hopes to start work on the high-speed rail between Kunming and Vientiane. The Thai government has agreed to have this rail extended to Bangkok, and China would like this high-speed rail to go down the Malay Peninsula to Singapore. ASEAN’s land links to India are also improving. These land links to India and China will be hugely beneficial to our economic development.”
“Mr Chairman, I thank Members of the House for their questions on foreign relations. In the last year, we have been able to expand and consolidate Singapore’s external space. Peace in our region, the good relations that we enjoy with our major trading partners and the FTAs that are in place have helped our economy rebound robustly from the global financial crisis. It is, however, not a static environment. The world is relentlessly moving towards a messier, multipolar reality. Regional and international institutions are evolving in response to a changing configuration of political, economic and cultural power in the world. In a fluid situation, it is crucial to strengthen ASEAN. A strong ASEAN enjoying good relations with all the major powers is at the core of Singapore’s foreign policy. Mr Michael Palmer asked about the progress of ASEAN under Vietnam’s chairmanship last year and the prospects under Indonesia’s chairmanship this year. The key achievements last year were the adoption of the ASEAN Connectivity Master Plan and the decision to admit the US and Russia into the East Asian Summit (EAS). We also strengthened ASEAN’s engagement with some of our Dialogue Partners by separately convening Summits with Australia, New Zealand, Russia and the UN. In addition, ASEAN Leaders and President Obama met a second time in New York last September. Connectivity covers all aspects, not only air, sea, land and electronic connections, but also trade and investment agreements, harmonisation of procedures and border clearances. We are concerned not only with connectivity within ASEAN but also ASEAN’s connectivity with other countries.”
“Through the sharing of knowledge and experiences, developing countries could adopt or adapt some of what we have done to their own specific conditions. We give priority to the region around us, including ASEAN. As a general principle, we prefer our development assistance to concentrate on human resource capacity building, not monetary donations. However, when there are major disasters or dire humanitarian needs, the Singapore Government does provide quick monetary assistance to affected countries. For example, the Government contributed S$70 million in post-tsunami assistance following the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami and US$5 million to the Cyclone Nargis relief in Myanmar and US$200,000 to the Sichuan Earthquake in 2008. Beyond what the Singapore Government has provided, our NGOs like the Singapore International Foundation (SIF), Singapore Red Cross, Mercy Relief and many Singaporeans played vital roles in helping these countries during disasters and humanitarian crises through their generous donation of time, effort and money. REJECTIONS FOR ESTATE AGENT LICENCE 4. Ms Sylvia Lim asked the Minister for National Development (a) how many applications from individuals for licences to be estate agents or registration as sales persons under the Estate Agents Act have been rejected to date; and (b) what are the reasons for the rejections and the numbers for each category of rejection.”
“In 2009, Singapore Government's total international assistance was about S$168 million. The bulk of our assistance to developing countries is through technical aid and human resource capacity building programmes. We have also provided humanitarian reliefs during disasters and major crises. In addition, Singapore makes voluntary contributions to international and regional organisations such as the United Nations and its subsidiaries, the World Bank, the Commonwealth Secretariat and ASEAN Secretariat which go towards development programmes. Singapore does not use a percentage of Gross National Income (GNI), which is a yardstick used by the OECD countries, to decide on the quantum of our international assistance budget. As our resources are finite and the demands for international assistance are endless, we take a realistic, practical and long-term view in providing development assistance to other countries. We seek to help others where our assistance can be effective, in areas where we have acquired the knowledge and experience, and where we can make a difference. A good example of this approach is the Singapore Cooperation Programme (SCP) managed by MFA which is an important component of our assistance to developing countries. Since its establishment in 1992, we have provided scholarships and training to over 71,000 participants from 169 developing countries spanning the Asia Pacific, Africa, Eastern Europe, Middle East, Latin America and the Caribbean. We provide training and share our experiences in areas such as economic and trade development, environment and urban planning, water management, public housing and transportation, port management, civil aviation, public governance, education and healthcare.”
“In the nature of statecraft, in the nature of diplomacy, we construct scenarios in our minds, some quite dark ones. And with friends, with people whom we have intimate communication, we share some of these scenarios. Now, we cannot prove these scenarios, or prove some of these speculations in any rigorous way. But, these are based upon instincts or information that we pick up from here and there. So, yes, we have to be more guarded in our communication with US diplomats. I think the WikiLeaks disclosures have been disastrous for US diplomacy. But, this applies to other forms of communication as well. At the same time, it is a loss because I think part of human relationships is that we must be able to share more when we trust somebody more. I visited a software company just a few days ago and I was told that they are now able to imitate you – your accent, your manner of expression – so that you press a button and the same words can be spoken in a different accent, as if somebody else was speaking those words. You are not quite sure now, even if you record a conversation, even if you see a video, what to believe or what not to believe. This is a new challenge posed by technology and I think all of us, including in international diplomacy, are responding to this really profound revolution in technology and trying to understand what it means for human communication and relationships. RECENT INCREASE IN COE PRICES 7. Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for Transport in view of the recent hike in the Certificate of Entitlement (COE) prices (a) whether there is any evidence of speculation; (b) what measures, if any, are being taken to control the sudden surge in COE prices; and (c) what is the expected trend of COE supply over the next 12 months.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, it was partly because of what Dato' Seri Anifah said to the media that I called him up in order to explain to him why we were not coming out to clarify what was or what was not communicated in our discussions with US diplomats. In the case of the leaks in the Australian media, they were in fact based upon leaks which Fairfax Media obtained from Assange – apparently a conversation between Australian and US diplomats mentioning us in their conversation. It is not even first-hand, and the original leaks have not been released. So I think it is not wise for us to go into details; then, people will ask: did you say this, did you say that? And if we allow such a train of questioning, then eventually everything comes out. Now the US government is not going to comment on the accuracy, or the veracity or the basis for all these despatches, and that is our policy too. So to the first question, following my telephone conversation with Dato' Seri Anifah, there have been no further demarches on this subject. If there are, certainly we would respond accordingly. Whether we would take the matter up with the US government; well, we would not, based on the same principle which I stated earlier. Will it affect communications with US diplomats? I think inevitably, because if this happened once, it can happen again, and I think we have got to be more careful. But at the same time, I would say, with the miniaturisation of microphones and cameras, I think we have got to be more careful in any case, whatever we express in confidence to other people. Mind you, something is lost. Part of the intimacy of communication is that we must be able, sometimes without all the evidence in support, to express our deep fears, concerns and hopes.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, WikiLeaks’ actions have affected many countries all around the world. Altogether, over a quarter million cables reflecting the views of US diplomats have been leaked from around the world. There are about 700 cables from the US Embassy in Singapore. I understand that there are over 15,500 cables leaked from US diplomatic missions in other ASEAN countries. The leaked cables should be seen in the wider context of diplomacy, where diplomats need to be candid in their analysis with the assurance of confidentiality. The selective disclosure of communications divorced from their context will only serve to sow public confusion and undermine the essential work of governments and diplomats. Particularly so when many of the leaks were the interpretations of the US diplomats on the conversations that they heard. Hence as a matter of principle, we have refrained from commenting on specific leaks. Singapore has long-standing, robust and positive relations with all countries in our region. These relationships are built on a strong foundation of shared interests and mutually beneficial cooperation in various areas. Countries would not allow WikiLeaks disclosures to affect their vital interests. In response to a protest submitted by Malaysia on the issue, which was conveyed to our High Commissioner in Kuala Lumpur on 14th December, I made a telephone call to my Malaysian counterpart, Dato’ Seri Anifah Aman to explain our policy of not commenting on specific leaks. I did tell him that there were significant inaccuracies in some of the leaked reports in the media. We agreed on the importance of good bilateral relations and strengthening cooperation further.”
“The 3G strongly supports the G20 process, provided its actions and decisions strengthen and complement the work of the UN. To this end, the 3G has been engaging the G20 with a view to building a bridge between the G20 and the UN. The 3G has emphasised the need for the various G20 Summit hosts to consult the wider UN membership before each Summit and to brief the UN membership after each Summit on its deliberations and outcomes. As a result of these efforts by the 3G, we have seen G20 hosts reach out to the UN membership to obtain feedback before and after G20 Summits. The Canadians, who hosted the Toronto Summit, as well as Korea, which hosted the recent Summit, have made it a point to brief the UN member states on their G20 initiatives. Likewise, the French, who will be chairing the G20 Summit next year, have also been engaging the UN membership early, for which they should be commended. An area of great concern to many countries is development, in particular, meeting the UN Millennium Development Goals. Although Singapore is a small state, we try our best to play a responsible role in the global system, offering our views and proposing solutions when appropriate, always working with other members of the UN in a constructive way. In this way, we serve best our own national interest. WRITTEN ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS LIFE AND INVESTMENT-LINKED INSURANCE POLICIES 1. Mdm Ho Geok Choo asked the Senior Minister what percentage of Singaporeans have life insurance policies and how many of those insured have investment-linked policies.”
“Even though the G20 collectively accounts for about 80% of the global economy, there are over 170 countries which are not members of the G20, but whose economic prospects are affected by the actions of the G20. Global governance structures need to strike the right balance between effectiveness and inclusiveness. For different issues there are different sets of committed stakeholders who can contribute constructively. It is therefore important that the G20 operates on the principle of "variable geometry", so that non-G20 countries can participate at different levels on issues of particular concern to them. And while we need to coordinate globally, our responses are carried out nationally and regionally. There is therefore a need to create space for national and regional approaches, even as we work towards global solutions. Going forward, we need a framework that encourages national, regional and global efforts to be aligned in the same direction, allowing for national and regional differences. Such a framework will involve countries in the G20, regional groupings like APEC and ASEAN in our region as well as global institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. To be effective, indeed for the entire process to be considered legitimate, the entire membership of the UN has to be engaged and the views of different countries and regions taken into account. With these concerns in mind, Singapore took the initiative to form the 3G to support the G20. The name Global Governance Group was coined by the Foreign Minister of Liechtenstein. The 3G membership currently comprises 27 small and medium-sized UN member states from all parts of the globe.”
“Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong participated in the G20 Summit in Seoul at the invitation of the host, the Republic of Korea, as a representative of the Global Governance Group (3G) and as the Prime Minister from a major financial centre in Asia. Singapore is honoured to have participated in the Seoul Summit and add to the Asian voice in the G20, which is important given Asia's place in the global economy. The Seoul Summit discussed the pressing challenges facing the global economy. The leaders also discussed measures to promote strong, sustainable and balanced global growth. These included taking coordinated actions to promote sustainable external balances, ensure free trade, reform the International Monetary Fund, achieve financial regulatory reform, and establish global financial safety nets. Singapore is a key node in the global financial system and has a huge interest in its proper functioning. Our public and private financial institutions have a responsibility to contribute positively to discussions in the G20 on global financial reforms. It is also important for the G20 to keep markets open, resist protectionism, advance the global trade agenda and work for the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals. Since November 2008, the G20 has coordinated a global response to the financial crisis. The designation of the G20 process as the "premier forum for international economic cooperation" at the G20 Summit in Pittsburgh in September 2009 means that the G20 has replaced the G7 as the premier economic forum in the world. By coming together to take swift and decisive actions, the G20 helped avert a global economic depression last year. However, the G20 is self-appointed and needs to engage all countries.”
“These issues are raised at the international level from time to time. A few years ago, we had raised this at the United Nations (UN), and if it is necessary and helpful to raise this at the UN, WHO or any other international forum, we will continue to do so. Yes, we have been doing this. ALLEGED FRAUD AT SLA (Findings and measures to prevent recurrence) 4. Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister for Law (a) whether the Auditor-General had audited the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) in the last two years and why the alleged fraud committed in SLA was not detected; (b) whether there are additional findings on the full extent of the fraud committed; and (c) what are the measures that have been taken to prevent a recurrence.”
“I think the important thing is to be effective. It is not just to give emotional satisfaction to our own sense of hurt and grievance. The important thing is to be effective, and if we can be effective without commotion, all the better. But if we need a commotion, we will have a commotion. But the key is to be effective. And we try very hard at all levels to do all we can. It is not just the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources’ (MEWR) responsibility, but also all the Ministries that have an interest in this. I hope that NGOs and parliamentarians and the corporate sector will all do their bit.”
“Mr Low is right that diplomatically, we certainly hope to be more successful, but there are limits to what we are able to do. It does not mean that if we make stronger speeches or internationalise the issue, that it will necessarily help solve this problem. I think let us work with the nature of the problem. We know its complexity. It is likely to come back from time to time, depending on larger climatic situations. We know that in an El Nino year, when the ground is particularly dry, sometimes it is not possible to avoid forest fires completely. But certainly for this year and, in many cases in previous years, the triggering problems are man-made in that it is the easiest way to clear forests and plant oil palms. There is an elaborate international process now to certify oil palm that requires the big companies to be responsible and observe clear codes of conduct. And some of these companies are headquartered in Singapore. Some of them are Singapore companies. So, we should take a multi-pronged approach. Internationally, where we can help Indonesia overcome this problem, we should act at that level. Regionally, in ASEAN, we should do the same, through the corporate sector, or at the government-to-government and parliament-to-parliament levels. We should also teach farmers the techniques to overcome their problems of daily life in a way which is less deleterious to the environment. So, I say "yes", we have not succeeded but we have not failed completely. We must continue to press on and not lose heart. Er Lee Bee Wah: Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to ask the Minister the same question. Despite them having a plan, they are dragging their feet. Will the Minister take this up to an international organisation like WHO?”
“So our approach should be that the most interested party in solving the haze problem is Indonesia itself, because millions of its own people are affected. And we should continue to encourage the DPR – the government is very clear about its position, but the DPR has got a life and voice of its own. And maybe here I can pass the buck to Members of this House. When you meet your counterparts in Indonesia, please also make the effort.”
“We will of course try hard to encourage them to do what is possible. It is not as if they do not have the plans: they have the plans. In previous years, they have made quite big efforts. In fact, just two days ago, I gave breakfast to GOLKAR Chairman Aburizal Bakrie. Pak Bakrie used to be MENKO or Coordinating Minister for Social-Political Affairs. He was responsible for helping to combat the haze. He was telling me how, in one of those years when the haze was quite bad, they got the Russians to help and they leased water bombers from the Russians. And against the advice of the civil aviation authorities, he decided to take a joy ride to watch the water bombing. The facilities on the plane were quite basic. He was telling me that there were no seat belts, just a plastic chair, and you were supposed to grab the pilot’s seat while they skimmed the water surface, collected the water, and then bombed the fires. And this worked. When I spoke to Pak Marty on the phone, he said cooperation in the past had helped and we should continue to strengthen cooperation. He said yes, this year is a problem, but in previous years, we had succeeded; so we should continue to work together. They have the plans. It is a big country, there are many players involved. Local authorities experience great difficulties. And it is not as if they themselves want it to happen. The former Governor of Jambi, Pak Zulkifli Nurdin, is a good friend and knows Singapore very well. One year, I called him up and said, "Look, we are prepared to help Jambi." I asked him where he was. He said he was in Jakarta and could not get back to Jambi because the haze was so bad there! And here we are talking about a PSI of 100, but for them, it is PSI of 200 or 300.”
“At the broader level, Indonesia has also announced a voluntary carbon emissions reduction target of 26% by 2020, and up to 41% with international support. These emissions reductions are slated to come, in large part, from the forestry sector. Such efforts by Indonesia to reduce its emissions from deforestation will also help to reduce unsustainable land clearing practices which cause the haze. For these reasons, we hope to see Indonesia ratify the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution soon as it benefits Indonesia, ASEAN and the wider world.”
“The problems faced by the region from the haze led to an ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution. The Indonesian government signed this Agreement in the year 2002 but, unfortunately, has yet to ratify it. It has to be ratified by the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR). Although the executive branch of the Indonesian government considers the Agreement important, some members of the DPR have objected to it on the grounds that Indonesia does not benefit sufficiently from this Agreement. It is hard to understand this argument. To begin with, Indonesians living in Sumatra and Kalimantan who are badly affected by the smoke haze will benefit most from the Agreement. We need Indonesia to take the lead on this issue when it takes over the ASEAN Chairmanship next year. The haze is not only a local or regional issue. It has a global dimension as well. The reduction of emissions from deforestation and forest degradation is an important element of ongoing climate change negotiations under the Bali Action Plan called REDD Plus – REDD standing for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation, and Plus referring to the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries. Indonesia is an active participant in REDD Plus. The donor countries of this initiative have pledged substantial amounts of money, both multilaterally and bilaterally, to help forest nations reduce deforestation. An example of this is the US$1 billion bilateral agreement between Norway and Indonesia. This bilateral agreement requires very close monitoring, reporting and verification to ensure that the objectives of REDD Plus are met.”
“As we heard from Minister Yaacob, last month, Singapore was again seriously affected by smoke haze from forest and peatland fires in Sumatra. There was a day when the Pollutant Standards Index hit the "unhealthy" range. The haze affected not only people in Singapore and Malaysia. It affected most of the people in Indonesia who lived closest to the fires. The haze is therefore a matter of very serious concern to us, to the Indonesians and to the entire region. On 21st October, Minister Yaacob called his Indonesian counterpart, Pak Gusti, to convey Singapore’s concerns over the haze and to offer our assistance to combat the forest fires. I spoke to Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa the following morning to reiterate our concerns and our immediate readiness to assist Indonesia. Pak Marty told me that he was also concerned about the situation and assured me that the Indonesian authorities were trying to address the problem. And he stressed the importance of regional cooperation and how it had helped in the past. The problem is over for this year, in part helped by the wet weather. When I was in Hanoi for the ASEAN Summit and other related meetings, I thanked Pak Marty for Indonesia's cooperation. Given that the haze does not respect boundaries, it is imperative that regional countries continue to work closely together on this issue. Singapore and Malaysia have been collaborating with the provincial governments of Jambi and Riau respectively on various fire and haze prevention programmes. The Sub-Regional Ministerial Steering Committee (MSC) on Transboundary Haze Pollution also meets regularly. These efforts have helped to mitigate the haze problem in the last three years. But our experience this year shows that more needs to be done.”
“Mr Michael Palmer asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence (a) what is the outcome of the investigation on the emergency landing of an RSAF Apache AH-64 on the vacant field along Woodlands Avenue 12; (b) what measures will the RSAF take to prevent such incidents from occurring again; (c) given the proximity to civilian populated areas which aircraft must fly in Singapore, what procedures does the RSAF have in place when an emergency such as this arises; and (d) if the RSAF will review its policy on aircraft flying in close proximity to housing estates to reduce the risk to public safety. 4. Mr Low Thia Khiang asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence what safeguards are in place to protect civilians from safety risks arising from SAF air training accidents. 5. Er Lee Bee Wah asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence (a) what is the root cause of the recent emergency landing by an RSAF helicopter in an open field in Woodlands; (b) what is the standard procedure for pilots who have to make an emergency landing; (c) what is the guideline on public safety when a pilot has to make an emergency landing; and (d) whether it is safe to conduct flight training in Singapore which is densely populated. 6. Assoc. Prof. Paulin Tay Straughan asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence whether the Ministry can make public the list of emergency landing sites for military aircraft and whether notices can be placed at these sites to help users stay alert should an emergency arise.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, if I may answer the second and third questions first. The RTS Link will be a major infrastructural project linking the two urban transport systems together. I think both sides are doing detailed studies and they have to meet to discuss what best would serve our mutual needs in a most cost-effective way. Whether it should be above water or below water, I think all these details have to be discussed and would require proper engineering studies and proper cost analysis. As for the arbitration on development charges, both sides are now assembling their legal teams, and they have not yet met for this purpose, but the Joint Implementation Team will have to work all this out, and begin the process of resolving these matters. Mdm Halimah is right that with this agreement, bilateral relations are now on a different plane. A chapter which has been kept open for 20 years has finally been closed, enabling us now to look at the future and prospects for future cooperation in a globalised world in a much more positive and constructive way. So I would say this is a milestone in the history of bilateral relations between the two countries. I would say relations now are excellent, and there should be prospects for greater future cooperation, both political and economic. EMERGENCY LANDING OF MILITARY AIRCRAFT IN WOODLANDS 3.”
“Both sides are supportive of the "live-work-play" wellness township concept proposed by our Joint Ministerial Committee for Iskandar Malaysia. The proposed iconic project will offer holistic wellness services and facilities in a sizeable development. Mr Speaker, Sir, as Members are aware, the IM project is an ambitious initiative that Malaysia has embarked on to catalyse further economic growth. Companies from Japan, South Korea, China, India, and the Middle East have shown interest in the IM. With the proximity of the IM, Singapore companies are also considering opportunities there. From May 2006 to May 2009, Singapore companies invested some RM 2.64 billion in Iskandar Malaysia. The joint development of the iconic project will send a strong signal of the Singapore and Malaysian governments' continuing commitment to strengthen bilateral political and economic ties, especially in Iskandar Malaysia.”
“The Joint Implementation Team shall conclude their discussion on the details of the implementation of the 24th May Joint Statement by 31st December this year, by the end of this year. After KTMB relocates its station to Woodlands Train Checkpoint by 1st July next year, the railway station building in Tanjong Pagar will be conserved and will serve as the centrepiece for any future development on the site. It was also agreed that the old Bukit Timah railway station building at Blackmore Drive can be conserved as well. The rest of the land along the railway tracks will be incorporated into the future development plans of the surrounding areas to meet Singapore's development needs. The two Prime Ministers also committed to the joint development of a rapid transit system (RTS) link between Singapore and Tanjung Puteri in Johor Bahru, targeted to be completed by 2018. As this will be a major infrastructure project, both sides are currently discussing the details of implementing the RTS link. This includes looking at factors such as connectivity with both the Singapore and Johor Bahru public transport networks. In addition, to improve the existing connectivity between Malaysia and Singapore, the two governments agreed to lower toll charges for the Second Link by 30% on both sides and, in fact, the revised toll rates have been implemented with effect from 1st August this year. On the Iskandar Malaysia (IM) iconic project, the two Prime Ministers agreed that Khazanah and Temasek will form a -50 joint venture company to undertake the development of an iconic wellness township project, which would involve the participation of the private sector of both countries.”
“The Marina South and Ophir-Rochor land parcels are in lieu of the three parcels of land in Tanjong Pagar, Kranji and Woodlands mentioned in the POA and three additional pieces of land in Bukit Timah previously offered by Singapore. The land swap between the Marina South and Ophir-Rochor land parcels, on the one hand, and the three POA land parcels and three Bukit Timah land parcels, on the other hand, is done on an equivalent value basis using the value of the three POA land parcels and three Bukit Timah land parcels based on their maximum development potential. Development charges therefore have to be paid on the three POA land parcels and the three Bukit Timah land parcels to realise their value based on maximum development potential for the purposes of the land swap. Malaysia agrees that development charges are payable for the three Bukit Timah land parcels but holds a different view from Singapore relating to the development charges payable on the three POA land parcels. Both Leaders have agreed to settle this issue amicably through arbitration under the auspices of the Permanent Court of Arbitration. They have further agreed to accept the arbitration award as final and binding. Both Leaders also agreed that the arbitration will proceed on its own track, and shall not affect the implementation of the POA and the other bilateral initiatives agreed in the Joint Statement of 24th May 2010, which shall continue to be implemented. The details of the relocation of the railway station and other implementation issues are being sorted out by the Joint Implementation Team co-chaired by the Secretary General of Malaysia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Permanent Secretary of Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, let me first clarify that the two countries did not sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). A Joint Statement was issued after the Prime Ministers of Singapore and Malaysia met at their Retreat on 24th May this year. The Joint Statement reflected their agreement on, among other things, the relocation of the Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) railway station from Tanjong Pagar to the Woodlands Train Checkpoint by 1st July 2011 pursuant to the Points of Agreement on Malayan Railway Lands in Singapore, or what we call the POA, signed in 1990, and subject to agreement on the land swap issue. Prime Minister Lee visited Malaysia on 22nd June 2010 to discuss the land swap issue with Prime Minister Najib and conveyed Singapore's offer on the land swap. Following the same meeting, Prime Minister Lee sent a revised land swap offer to Prime Minister Najib on 28th June 2010. Prime Minister Najib accepted the offer on 17th September 2010 and Prime Minister Lee replied on 19th September 2010 confirming his agreement. The Prime Ministers met again in Singapore on 20th September 2010 as a follow-up to their earlier meetings, and have agreed on the following: The Singapore Government shall vest four land parcels in Marina South and two land parcels in Ophir-Rochor in a joint venture company called M-S Private Limited, for joint development when KTMB vacates the Tanjong Pagar Railway Station (TPRS) and relocates the railway station to Woodlands. KTMB will vacate Tanjong Pagar by 1st July next year. M-S Pte Ltd will be 60% held by Khazanah Nasional Berhad of Malaysia and 40% held by Temasek Holdings (Pte) Ltd of Singapore.”
“Mr Low Thia Khiang asked the Minister for Education what is the rationale for assigning weightage to subjects for the PSLE examination results. 7. Mr Baey Yam Keng asked the Minister for Education (a) what is the spread of PSLE results from the top to the bottom grades for all three mother tongues in the last 10 years; (b) what is the proportion of students in these three groups who have achieved B grades and above in the other three subjects over the last 10 years; and (c) whether the reasons to adjust the weightage are similar for students taking Chinese, Malay and Tamil as their second languages. 8. Mr Teo Siong Seng asked the Minister for Education (a) what concrete action is the Ministry taking to reiterate the international competitive advantage and cultural importance of learning Chinese language as a mother tongue to young Chinese Singaporeans and their parents, especially those from English-speaking home environments; and (b) whether the Ministry has carefully considered and sought public opinion on the social, cultural and educational impact of any attempt to reduce the examination weightage or importance of mother tongue in our current bilingual education policy.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, we were told that before they could send their officials to Singapore for the Joint Technical Committee meeting, they needed to obtain certain clearances on their side and there were processes to follow. But this week, our people will be there in Bucharest and they will have meetings. Whether that would, in fact, constitute the first meeting of the Joint Technical Committee remains to be seen. But they have been very helpful in facilitating this visit. WEIGHTAGE OF MOTHER TONGUE IN PSLE EXAMINATION 3. Er Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for Education with the recent announcement on the possible revision of the weightage for Chinese language in the PSLE examination (a) how will the reduced weightage encourage and reward students who are good in English and Chinese languages; and (b) whether this revision is a contradiction to the Government's policy of encouraging Singaporeans to learn and be competent in the Chinese language. 4. Assoc. Prof. Paulin Tay Straughan asked the Minister for Education (a) if he will give an update on the proposal to reduce the weightage for mother tongue in the PSLE; (b) what are the main objections to the proposal and whether there is merit to these concerns; (c) what is the feedback from those involved in the Malay and Tamil languages; and (d) whether the Ministry has interviewed students for their perspective on this important issue. 5. Mr Low Thia Khiang asked the Minister for Education (a) what is the current weightage of mother tongue in relation to other subjects in the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE); and (b) how is the total aggregated mark of each student sitting for the PSLE computed. 6.”
“Mr Speaker, may I have your permission to take Question Nos. 1 and 2 together?”
“A recent British Medical Journal (BMJ) article (18th March) highlighted the possibility of infection in acupuncture sites, referred to as "acupuncture mycobacteriosis". This is not a new discovery but a known complication. However, the infection is uncommon, is often mild and has limited spread. Not surprisingly, the article attracted many negative responses, describing it as "sensational and alarmist". However the potential of a serious complication due to a contaminated needle must always be borne in mind by the practitioners. The key to eliminate such a complication is proper infection control procedures. We require these to be practised at all times in all the acupuncture facilities here. The proper practice of acupuncture is included in the curriculum of both the training of TCM practitioners and also in the Singapore TCM Registration Examination. FOREIGN WORKERS ENTERING CASINOS 30. Mr Liang Eng Hwa asked the Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports (a) how many foreign workers with work permits and employment passes have entered the casino since its opening and; (b) whether he will consider extending the entry levy of $100 to foreign workers so as to deter them from gambling at the casinos.”
“We see signs that vessels carrying suspicious cargoes are by-passing ports with strict and effective export control systems like Singapore. Second-tier ports in our region and elsewhere must also strengthen their export control systems so that illicit nuclear materials are not diverted to less stringent jurisdictions. Nuclear security and nuclear safety are closely inter-related. As more ASEAN countries consider nuclear power for their energy needs, they need to strengthen regional cooperation to improve our capabilities and safety standards. ASEAN countries have already begun a discussion on developing a regional nuclear safety regime. This is in our common interest as neither terrorists nor accidents will respect national boundaries. We depend on and cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to set stringent international norms and rules, and to help to enforce them. Singapore will be serving on the IAEA Board of Governors for the third time this September. We will do what we can to support and strengthen the IAEA. DISPOSABLE NEEDLES IN TCM CLINICS 28. Ms Indranee Rajah asked the Minister for Health (a) whether Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) departments in our Government hospitals use disposable acupuncture needles to prevent possible infection; and (b) whether steps are being taken to prevent the occurrence, in our hospitals, of the newly identified syndrome of acupuncture mycobacteriosis. Mr Khaw Boon Wan: Only National University Hospital, Singapore General Hospital and Tan Tock Seng Hospital provide acupuncture services as part of their hospital services. Otherwise, the TCM clinics set up within the premises of restructured hospitals are independent entities, as tenants of the hospitals. All of them use disposable acupuncture needles only.”
“The Nuclear Security Summit (NSS) was an important initiative that focused global attention on nuclear security and, in particular, nuclear terrorism. The countries attending the NSS made serious political commitments to deal with these threats. Several countries also pledged to undertake measures which would mitigate the risk of nuclear terrorism such as giving up their stockpiles of highly enriched uranium which could be used in a nuclear bomb. This was a promising start, but only a start. Countries need to follow up on the political commitments made in Washington with effective and sustained concrete measures. The next Summit will be held in the Republic of Korea in two years. We must all strive for maximum progress by that time. As Prime Minister Lee said in Washington, nuclear terrorism is not just a remote, worst case scenario, but a disaster which can realistically happen unless all countries do their part to secure nuclear material and combat trafficking of illicit nuclear materials. Nuclear terrorism poses an existential threat to a small, densely populated city state like Singapore. We thus take nuclear security very seriously. We contribute to global efforts through our rigorous system of export controls. As a major transhipment hub, Singapore has an important role in safeguarding the security of global trade. We work to prevent illicit cargoes from slipping through Singapore while not impeding legitimate trade. We also participate actively in international counter-proliferation initiatives, such as the Proliferation Security Initiative. Any international export control regime is only as strong as its weakest link. Every country must play its part.”
“Unless there are questions raised by Members which I have not adequately answered.”