Grace Fu Hai Yien
Singapore
“The Government takes a multi-pronged approach to address the disamenities from second-hand tobacco smoke. The National Environment Agency (NEA) works with Government agencies, Town Councils and community leaders to promote considerate behaviour and strengthen social norms.”
“The Government recently announced land-use changes in Lim Chu Kang to optimise our scarce land to meet our growing and evolving needs. We are at the initial planning stage and agencies are still working out the detailed development proposals.”
“Public Waste Collectors and Town Councils have trialled the collection and treatment of segregated food waste from households. However, participation rates are poor despite regular engagement and reminders.”
“The quality of incense offerings and the practice of burning incense are not regulated by law. Instead, the National Environment Agency (NEA) works with stakeholders, such as Town Councils, agencies and religious organisations, to encourage responsible burning of joss paper and incense.”
“The National Environment Agency (NEA) monitors public cleaning contractors through regular physical audits and remote monitoring, complemented by video analytics. NEA also regularly assesses the cleaning quality and outcomes of public cleaning contractors.”
“This question has been addressed in the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment’s combined answer to Question Nos 15 to 18 on the Order Paper for 7 July 2026. [Please refer to "National Recycling Rates, Plans and Targets", Official Report, 7 July 2026, Vol 96, Issue 32, Oral Answers to Questions section.]”
The complete record
Every one of 2,293 lines we hold for Grace Fu Hai Yien, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 31 of 46.
“We do not track the statistic that Mr Gan Thiam Poh has asked for. A study by the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC) in 2013 found that a person's perception of well-being is positively correlated with giving, which includes volunteering or donating. Specifically, 66% of givers, as compared to 45% of non-givers, were more likely to report they experience high levels of well-being1. Giving may increase well-being as volunteers derive deep meaning from helping others, are more grateful for their own life situation, and grow a bigger network of positive social relationships, along with a stronger sense of community. A research study in Scotland2 in 2018 found that volunteering benefited the mental and physical well-being of volunteers, with benefits found to be more significant for older volunteers 60 years and above who are more subject to loneliness, role-identity loss, such as loss of employment or loss of partner/departure of children, and ill-health.”
“SOTA is working to broaden access to its high-quality educational experience to artistically inclined youths from all walks of life. While not all graduates from SOTA become practitioners, many go on to work in other professional fields while remaining strong supporters of, and volunteer their time in, our arts scene. At the tertiary level, our universities and arts institutions, such as the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts and LASALLE College of the Arts, offer both undergraduate and postgraduate arts-related courses. As part of Our SG Arts Plan, NAC will build on existing efforts to, first, further support arts educators and instructors to improve the quality of arts education; second, grow research to explore the impact of early exposure to the arts to improve programmes; third, continue to increase access to the arts; fourth, deepen its engagement with schools and nurture distinctive schools in the arts; and fifth, support early childhood arts education.”
“Speaker, strengthening arts education is an important component of the National Arts Council’s (NAC's) Our SG Arts Plan launched in October 2018. Not only does early exposure to the arts nurture creative thinking and help our children develop empathy and confidence, it also paves the way for arts appreciation and participation to be a way of life for them as they grow up. Therefore, strong arts education programmes will produce many future arts supporters and audiences, patrons, collectors, art ambassadors and leaders of arts and cultural organisations. Together with the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, NAC works closely with partners from the public, private and people sectors to enhance opportunities for our young people to engage with the arts. Some examples include initiatives like the NAC’s Artist-in-School Scheme, where arts professionals work with schools, including preschools, on specialised workshops or courses. Ninety-eight percent of the Ministry of Education (MOE) schools participate in NAC’s Arts Education Programme (NAC-AEP) which aims to build broad appreciation of the arts and deepen knowledge. In 2016, over 3,000 NAC-AEP programmes were taken up by schools. In 2018, museum-based learning was incorporated as one of the core learning experiences for Primary 4 students in MOE's primary arts syllabus. NAC also piloted a performing arts-based learning experience for lower secondary students in 2017, where over 5,000 students attended a concert programme which included pre- and post-concert learning. The School of the Arts (SOTA) provides an immersive learning environment to realise students' artistic and academic potential.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, we have a total of 1.63 million ActiveSG members, of which of about 14% use their credits weekly. However, transactions involving ActiveSG credits do not reflect the level of activity among ActiveSG members, as one member can book a facility on behalf of his group, and this excludes those who access our free-to-play facilities, such as our sports stadia. Since the launch of ActiveSG in 2014, national sports participation has increased. In financial year 2017, our public sports facilities recorded close to 17 million visits, and the National Sports Participation Survey reported that 68% of respondents participated in sports at least once a week. The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and SportSG are committed to encouraging Singaporeans to lead active and healthy lifestyles. ActiveSG has continually introduced innovative programming at our sports centres, such as Aqua Zumba, Bokwa and Piloxing, and launched various ActiveSG Academies and Clubs to encourage youths and seniors to learn to play different sports. The 2018 edition of GetActive! Singapore, our week-long celebration of National Day through sports, also reached out to more than 800,000 participants.”
“We believe that insights from big data could help us grow volunteerism and allow Ministries to improve their support and partnership with volunteers, as well as make the volunteering experience a more meaningful one. The Government is, indeed, improving the sharing and analysis of volunteer-related data, with consent from the volunteers to share their information. We are progressively rolling out digital infrastructure to help agencies manage information on volunteers and volunteering opportunities, starting with volunteering opportunities offered by public sector agencies. Volunteers are also able to discover and sign up for volunteering opportunities across participating agencies with ease. Earlier this year, we launched the SG Cares mobile app with inspiring stories, links to volunteering opportunities, and self-help guides to grow their own volunteer competencies. This is a first step towards a personalised "digital assistant" for volunteering that Ms Anthea Ong refers to, and we will continue to seek feedback and enhance the app to make it a more seamless journey for the volunteer and beneficiaries. In time, these efforts would make it easier for more organisations and individuals to step forward to volunteer and build a culture of care in Singapore together.”
“We will continue to monitor the development of esports as another area which our youths can express their passions and achieve their potential.”
“The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) has been closely monitoring the rising popularity of esports among our youths. In August this year, the Ministry organised the inaugural Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) youth esports tournament, Hyperplay, to bring together youths of different backgrounds who share a common passion, as well as to promote greater understanding of ASEAN and build friendships across borders. Sport Singapore (SportSG) has been supportive of the esports fraternity's efforts to establish a National Sport Association (NSA). As with other sports, the NSA is expected to develop the sport's ecosystem. This includes developing athletes, coaches, officials and administrators for the sport. The NSA will also oversee the development of athletes to represent Singapore, should esports competitions be introduced in future Major Games. We see that there is private sector interest to develop esports in the region, and this could provide more business and career opportunities for Singaporeans. For example, Razer and Sea, formerly known as Garena, are Singapore-based companies that are active in this space, both in Singapore and the region. Singtel also recently organised the PvP esports Championship in October. There will be Singaporeans who will want to explore opportunities in this growing industry. Our polytechnics and universities offer programmes in design and media, such as in digital animation and game design. In particular, one of the local esports interest groups, the Singapore Cybersports and Online Gaming Association (SCOGA), has been working with Republic Polytechnic to incorporate esports content as part of the school's Diploma in Sport Management.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, I beg to move, "That the proceedings on the business set down on the Order Paper for today be exempted at this day's Sitting from the provisions of Standing Order No 2."”
“There is close coordination among Government agencies to assess requests involving mass sports activities. For those requiring road closures or traffic diversion, the event organisers have to submit plans for approval by the Traffic Police and the Land Transport Authority and will also have to obtain a letter of support from Sport Singapore. Organisers are also required to engage affected stakeholders, such as residents and businesses, and advise them of the road closure timings and alternative vehicular access to the area. The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth notes the Member's suggestion for a coordinating body for the organisation of mass sports activities and will be engaging him to study this suggestion.”
“Thank you very much, Deputy Speaker. As a result of the combined efforts of the Government, private, public and people sectors, today, a wide range and diversity of visual and performing arts have enlivened our public spaces. The Government will continue to develop our policies so that Singapore is home to diverse and distinctive arts that are accessible to, and inspire our people and connect our communities. Thank you, Deputy Speaker, for your indulgence. [(proc text) Question put, and agreed to. (proc text)] [(proc text) Resolved, "That Parliament do now adjourn." (proc text)] Adjourned accordingly at 6.52 pm.”
“These activities reached over 190,000 people and demonstrated how public art can engage and bring communities together when it is carefully curated. Deputy Speaker: Minister, you have two more minutes.”
“And NAC plans to commission one additional public artwork each year thereafter. In other words, we are actively supporting, financing and cultivating artists to bring public artworks, sculptures and installation art to public spaces. NAC has made efforts to involve the arts community in good public art projects through its grants. For example, OH! Open House, a recipient of NAC's Major Company Scheme funding, curates art walks that bring art into unexpected, everyday spaces, such as HDB flats. Second, the success of the arts in Singapore is the result of a strong and mutually beneficial partnership among the Government, the corporates and individuals. NAC not only encourages private donations for new public art, but also engages key partners for their support, such as in securing new sites for this art. For example, the PAT advises both site owners and artists on best practices in commissioning, installing, maintaining and decommissioning public artworks. Third, to present public art that is relevant to Singaporeans from all communities and walks of life, we must continue to bring art closer to the community through thoughtful programming and outreach. The initiatives of our arts groups, like the national orchestras and Mr Kok's own Drama Box, in the heartlands are good examples. The PAT commissioned a Stop and Smell the Ang Mo Dan! exhibition with NAC's Arts In Your Neighbourhood initiative in March this year. The site-specific works by four Singaporean artists included talks, live painting sessions and hands-on craft activities for residents and non-residents of Ang Mo Kio to learn about the rich history and hidden characteristics of this neighbourhood.”
“At the same time, however, we are mindful that our public spaces serve a wide range of needs of Singaporeans. We need to be sensitive and respectful of the different perspectives, values and way of life in our multicultural and multigenerational society. It is MCCY's role to ensure that we promote the arts and raise arts excellence in a way that gains strong public support for arts and culture across the board. Therefore, in promoting public art, we must strike a careful balance between the artists and the stakeholders who own and use the premises. For example, park users may appreciate the occasional band performance but prefer to keep the park quiet and serene at other times. Therein lies the need to consult different stakeholders as a matter of respect and basic courtesy – those who own and use the space should also have a say. I am sure that Mr Kok Heng Leun can see the merits of this approach, as he has often advocated for acknowledging diversity in views, in this case from different users of public spaces, including non-arts practitioners. He, too, has noted the importance of how public art should not flout the law or create public disorder. Mr Deputy Speaker, I will elaborate on how the Government supports art in our common spaces that add to the enjoyment and experience of Singaporeans and enhance our physical landscape, while taking in the considerations that I have outlined earlier. First, the Government, through NAC, commissions key public art works. The first three commissions under the Public Art Trust (PAT) were conceived to commemorate Singapore's Golden Jubilee. Another two new public artworks will be commissioned in community spaces to commemorate Singapore's Bicentennial next year.”
“We want to create an environment where more Singaporeans, and not only trained artists, can appreciate and participate in the arts, so that the arts are an integral part of all our lives. In 2017, PAssionArts involved some 50,000 arts participants and volunteers, about 30 arts groups and 300 organisations, including schools, voluntary welfare organisations, religious groups, community groups, and hospitals in more than 65 heartland locations. At this year's PAssionArts Festival in July and August, a memorable experience was the Animal Art workshop where three-generational families and neighbours came together to create and paint on wooden planks. And this is an example of how art in everyday spaces, in everyday places, and in everyday lives, can help build the connections which Mr Kok referred to, and which my Ministry also seeks to develop among Singaporeans. We are also stepping up efforts to engage our youths who are the future generations of artists, patrons and supporters of the arts. To do this, we provide opportunities for talented youths to showcase their work. At the recent Night Festival, I had the pleasure of interacting with two groups involving students from the Singapore University of Technology and Design and their work – Hyperbands by Kopi/O and Orbit by LiteWerkz. Their enthusiasm demonstrated how we must continue to support our youths in pursuing their passions, including by expressing themselves and showcasing a part of our Singaporean identity through the arts. The Government supports art in everyday spaces because we are aware of its ability to shape common experiences and to spark shared interests. And if done well, this can help Singaporeans develop stronger bonds and bring us together as a people.”
“These offerings are part of the over 100 arts and cultural events available each day, and which 74% of Singaporeans agreed they were proud of in the 2015 Population Survey on the Arts. Mr Kok also spoke about the spaces that are currently available for public art. The Government has embarked on a variety of efforts to increase public art over the last 30 years. These include the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s Public Sculpture Masterplan and Art Incentive Scheme, the Land Transport Authority’s Art in Transit Programme, NHB’s Public Art Tax Incentive Scheme, and the NAC’s establishment of the Public Art Trust (PAT) in 2014 with a $10 million seed fund from the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY). Under NAC’s Busking Scheme, over 250 buskers have been endorsed since 2017. They include the father and son duo, Mr Mashruddin Saharuddin and Nizaruddin, who were featured at this year’s National Day Parade, and whose performances have enlivened city life and energised urban spaces. I am pleased to update that NAC has secured over 50 sites around Singapore for public art, from a shophouse wall in Boat Quay to an open area near a Housing and Development Board (HDB) block in Tampines. NAC will continue to identify more of such spaces, and work with site owners to make them available for artists to showcase their work. Together with spaces for street art at Goodman Arts Centre, Aliwal Arts Centre, and *SCAPE, these sites will help augment our arts and cultural offerings and add vibrancy to our city. MCCY remains committed to making the arts and culture accessible to everyone, and to working closely in partnership with arts practitioners as well as enthusiasts, hobbyists and volunteers.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, I thank Mr Kok Heng Leun for his observations and suggestions to increase artistic expression and engagement in Singapore. Mr Kok Heng Leun referred to the many opportunities for art in public spaces beyond the conventional gallery, theatre or studio. In fact, he has mentioned several examples of how forum theatre has been able to engage the public in multiple locations in Singapore, having good engagement on topics that can be difficult, emotional and sensitive at times. That is, in fact, the best testament of how art has been able to be carried out in public with trust, with good conversations and mutual understanding. So, I am glad that he is, indeed, affirming that this has taken place in Singapore. Mr Kok also noted that the Singapore Night Festival organised by the National Heritage Board (NHB) has done well to balance accessibility and security. I agree with Mr Kok that Singapore’s arts and culture scene, including art in our public spaces, is, indeed, vibrant and thriving. Aside from the Night Festival, there are many, many other opportunities for Singaporeans to enjoy art in everyday spaces in the city centre, as well as in our heartlands. These include NHB’s Singapore Heritage Festival, National Gallery Singapore’s Light to Night, the National Arts Council’s (NAC’s) Arts in Your Neighbourhood, and People Association's (PA’s) PAssionArts. I am sure PAssionArts is quite familiar to many of the Members sitting around the House, because it is taking place in every constituency in Singapore – in everyday spaces, in hawker centres, void decks, community centres and parks.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That Parliament do now adjourn." [(proc text) Question proposed. (proc text)] ADDRESSING ISSUES THAT LIMIT ARTISTIC EXPRESSION IN EVERYDAY PLACES 6.22 pm”
“They made passionate and heartfelt speeches on important topics, such as social mobility within the education system, sports education and national examinations. While the NMPs have presented their views respectfully, they have not shirked from challenging the status quo. They have contributed to healthy debates in our Parliament, which are necessary when setting the direction for Singapore in our complex and challenging environment. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, the NMPs have embodied the spirit of Parliament, putting Singapore and Singaporeans first. On behalf of the House, I would like to thank them for their valuable contributions to Parliament. [Applause.]”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, the term of office of the Nominated Members of Parliament (NMPs) is coming to an end. On behalf of the House, I would like to thank the nine NMPs for their contributions. They are: Mr Azmoon Bin Ahmad, Mr Ganesh Rajaram, Mr Kok Heng Leun, Asst Prof Mahdev Mohan and Ms K Thanaletchimi for serving one term; and Ms Chia Yong Yong, Mr Thomas Chua, Ms Kuik Shiao-Yin and Assoc Prof Randolph Tan for serving two terms. The NMP scheme was introduced in 1990 to provide a wider range of views and perspectives in Parliament. The NMPs represent diverse groups of Singaporeans and, with their views presented in Parliament, they have added to the robustness of the debates and contributed towards better decision-making in this House. In recent years, our electorate has taken an interest in a broader range of concerns and there have been new viewpoints and alternative approaches on the issues debated. Our NMPs have done well in articulating these perspectives and representing different citizen segments. The NMPs have brought attention to a wide range of issues, including workplace harassment, criminal justice and Muslim inheritance laws. They have also raised thoughtful suggestions on how we can adapt to the demands of a global economy and ensure that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can thrive amidst economic restructuring. Other social issues have also been discussed, including income inequality and freedom for artistic expression in public spaces. While each NMP has specific concerns and areas of expertise, they have also collaborated on issues of common concern. In July 2018, five NMPs proposed the Motion "Education for our Future". Together, they called for the Government to ensure that the education system was accessible and inclusive for all learners.”
“May I make a short speech before I move the Motion of Adjournment of Parliament today.”
“Athlete Life Coaching is also provided to guide athletes in their education pathway, as well as support for school admissions and scholarship applications. To date, over 400 student-athletes have benefited from this scheme. In the course of striving for sporting excellence, some athletes may consider pursuing professional sporting careers. As the decision to turn professional is a personal choice, this is best left to the athlete to decide in consultation with the family, the manager, if he or she has appointed one, and the respective NSAs. SportSG shares with the athletes the key considerations for turning professional and provides resources. In 2016, SSI partnered Deloitte to develop a reference guide for Team Singapore athletes on how to secure, maintain and retain corporate sponsorships as a professional athlete. Our Team Singapore athletes are aware that they can avail themselves of all these programmes we have put in place to support their overall well-being as they pursue excellence in sports.”
“Sports have the power to rally and unite a nation, and we want to see Singaporeans achieve their full potential. One of the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth's (MCCY's) priorities is to enable our Team Singapore athletes to reach their full potential and achieve sporting success when they represent Singapore in international competitions, such as the Olympics and Southeast Asian Games. Sport Singapore (SportSG) partners stakeholders, such as the National Sports Associations (NSAs), to support our athletes by providing financial grants, coaching, sports science and sports medicine expertise, as well as overseas training and competition opportunities. SportSG also supports the personal development of Team Singapore athletes through its Athlete Life Management (ALM) programme, which helps athletes cope with the demands of high-performance sports, while pursuing education goals and preparing for a successful transition to a post-sport career. In 2013, the Singapore Sports Institute (SSI) set up the Sports Excellence Business (spexBusiness) Network to offer career development opportunities to active and retired Team Singapore athletes, including internships, apprenticeships, part-time positions, as well as permanent positions with flexible work arrangements. There are now 58 corporate partners in the network, and over 220 Team Singapore athletes have benefited from the network. They include former national athletes, such as shuttler Derek Wong, who has made a successful transition to a post-sport career with Deloitte. In addition, SSI has partnered 12 Institutes of Higher Learning under its spexEducation Scheme to support student-athletes with flexible academic arrangements to help them balance the demands of both sport and academic development.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That Parliament do now adjourn." [(proc text) Question proposed. (proc text)] Addressing Mechanical Failure in Heavy Vehicles Leading to Fatal Accidents 6.23 pm”
“We have several considerations when we assess our support for NS-liable athletes involved in team sports. For example, we look at the robustness of the NSA's development plans for the team, whether there is a clear target for a Major Games competition in sight and the plans to achieve this, as well as the individual athlete’s role and potential contribution to the national team. If there are sporting talents who are part of this squad, and who demonstrate commitment to represent Singapore and serve NS, MCCY is prepared to work with MINDEF to evaluate NS deferment applications, or training privileges during NS so that the enlisted athletes can train together with the rest of the squad.”
“The Minister for Defence has, in his earlier reply to PQs, explained how MINDEF has accommodated the training requirements of enlisted Team Singapore athletes, and allowed these athletes to take up additional training opportunities in the lead-up to the Major Games – within the duration of their NS. For instance, enlisted members of the national football and water polo teams have in the past been given permission to train with their team mates in preparation for the Southeast Asian Games and other major international competitions. In this regard, NS deferment is not the only avenue for supporting the development of our young male athletes. MCCY is prepared to support NS deferment applications by sporting talents who have consistently demonstrated the potential to succeed at the highest levels of competition, serve Singapore’s interests, and have provided a definitive commitment to return to serve NS. These include swimmers Joseph Schooling and Quah Zheng Wen, who have been granted deferment to train full-time for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. In the case of Joseph, his original NS deferment was from 2013 to the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. Following his Gold-medal achievement in Rio, thus meeting the agreed milestone target that we have with him and the NSA, MINDEF extended his deferment to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics on the recommendation of MCCY. My Ministry shares Singaporeans' aspirations for excellence in sports, and does not favour individual sports over team sports. Across all sports, we objectively assess the NSAs' development plans and targets, as well as the performance and potential of the athletes. For team sports, we have to adopt a whole-team development strategy which covers the entire squad of athletes, beyond just an individual athlete.”
“Thank you. MCCY recognises the power of sport in inspiring the nation and engendering a sense of national pride. Through Sport Singapore (SportSG) and its partners, including Singapore National Olympic Council, the National Sports Associations (NSAs), the Singapore Sports School, and the National Youth Sports Institute, the High Performance Sports (HPS) system has been established to support our athletes to reach their fullest sporting potential. The System involves identifying, developing and benchmarking the progress of sporting talents across key sports, covering the provision of training facilities, coaching support, sports science and sports medicine expertise, as well as overseas training and competition opportunities. In other words, we support the sports and the athletes comprehensively by working with the NSAs to develop their Multi-Year Sports Plans. As young male athletes progress in their development over the years, the timing of National Service will be a factor for consideration. And our considerations are: a) How will the two-year commitment affect the athlete? b) What is the potential and motivation of the athlete? c) What is the training and development plan for the athlete? and d) How is the athlete being developed to progressively achieve personal bests and breakthrough performances? I must say that the athlete is seen as one of a bigger team for the sports, not just by himself, but also what he can do to contribute to the sports and also to the development of the sports as a whole. As part of the long-term plan under HPS, we work closely with MINDEF, MHA and the NSAs to enable our male Team Singapore athletes to pursue their sports development and fulfil their NS obligations.”
“Mr Speaker, may I have your permission to answer Question Nos 26 and 27 together, as they are related?”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, may I seek your consent to move that the debate be now adjourned?”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, may I seek your consent to move that the debate be now adjourned?”
“Mr Speaker, may I seek your consent and the general assent of Members present to move that the proceedings on the item under discussion be exempted from the provisions of Standing Order No 48(8) to remove the time limit in respect of the Prime Minister's speech?”
“We will tap on their diverse experience and involve them in giving back to society through volunteerism. In the process, they can also grow their social networks and stay active and engaged. To meet the challenges of an ageing society, we launched Active Health, a national social movement to spur Singaporeans to take ownership of their health and wellness and support one another in sustaining an active lifestyle. To kickstart their Active Health journey, Singaporeans can visit an Active Health Lab to have their baseline health indicators assessed and choose from a wide range of ActiveSG programmes to get active together with family, colleagues and friends. We will roll out four more labs at Bishan, Jurong East, Sengkang and Woodlands Sports Centres, and two Mobile Labs this year. Working with partner organisations, such as the Health Promotion Board, People’s Association and healthcare providers, we will progressively expand outreach to more people across Singapore. A strong society is one that is caring, inclusive and has a shared sense of the past and future. A strong society is one where the Singapore spirit is strong, and where we work together to make Singapore a better home. In the face of a more complex and unpredictable future, we invite every Singaporean to build an even better Singapore together.”
“We will design conversations around wide ranging issues, such as preparing for jobs in the future economy, bridging social divides, and helping the underprivileged, using various modes of engagement to provide safe spaces for dialogue. Conversations will also be conducted online to reach out to more youths and enable them to build and sustain connections with one another. Through the National Youth Fund, we will also support youths who want to initiate projects together to benefit the community and bring Singapore forward. Communities that look out for and care for one another are the hallmark of a strong society. SG Cares seeks to have a person in every household who volunteers, making the values of care and contribution a norm. We will convene more platforms for givers, non-profits, and sector experts to build insights, co-create solutions, and achieve national impact together. As a start, we will provide greater support to local community stakeholders in Bedok and Jurong – community partners, religious organisations, schools and merchants in the neighbourhood – to serve the needs of residents and coordinate and mobilise resources. We will also encourage and support good neighbourliness through a whole-of-society approach to strengthen a shared sense of responsibility and ownership towards the neighbourhood. This enhanced community model will complement efforts to strengthen social service delivery on the ground, and the expansion of the Community Networks for Seniors. A strong local ecosystem will support vulnerable families and enable our seniors who want to age in place to do so in the community. Seniors have much to offer. We want to engage them early and help them transit to new roles in the community as they retire.”
“We will continue to grow the common space for interactions and shared experiences, and promote equal access to arts and heritage, sports and youth programmes, such as ArtReach, SportCares Champions, Saturday Night Lights and Youth Corps Singapore. We will expand the range of affordable quality sports programmes at ActiveSG centres, and build on the momentum of Get Active! Singapore celebrations, to encourage more Singaporeans to bond through sports. Using programmes, such as Broadening Religious/Racial Interaction through Dialogue and General Education (BRIDGE), we will increase our support for community-led initiatives that deepen understanding on sensitive issues of race and religion. To further promote inclusivity, the Disability Sports Master Plan aims to expand access and opportunities for sports participation to all, regardless of abilities. We will launch two more inclusive gyms and more disability sports programmes, such as Wheelchair Tennis, in 2018. We will continue to grow awareness and outreach of disability sports through platforms, such as the Inclusive Sports Festival, and partnerships with stakeholders like the Ministry of Education, Special Education schools, social service organisations, and other sports stakeholders. We embarked on the Youth Conversations to provide a platform for youths to engage one another and the Government to build our future Singapore together. Youth Conversations provide opportunities for young Singaporeans to understand important issues, appreciate one another’s views, negotiate differences, and find new solutions together.”
“The arts scene is more vibrant today, with more Singaporeans recognising the value of the arts to the individual, community, and to Singapore society. We will continue to enrich and grow our arts scene, and support our artists in areas, such as audience development, community arts, arts education, capability development, internationalisation, as well as research and documentation. We will also adopt the Tripartite Standard on Contracting with Self-Employed Persons in the arts and culture sector to promote fair and progressive employment practices. This will be complemented by the setting up of a national resource centre to support freelancers in their efforts to excel and enjoy meaningful careers. Sport has the capacity to inspire and rally a nation. When we cheer on our athletes and celebrate their achievements, we reaffirm our identity as one people. Our contingents achieved their best away performances at the Southeast Asian Games and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Para Games in Malaysia in 2017 and put in commendable performances at the Commonwealth Games in Australia in April 2018. The Government is committed to supporting our athletes’ aspirations and will continue to develop and enhance Singapore’s High Performance Sports system in areas, such as talent identification, coach development and sports science and medicine capabilities. We will work with key sports stakeholders, such as the Singapore National Olympic Council, Singapore National Paralympic Council and the National Sports Associations, to prepare our athletes and rally the nation as One Team Singapore. A society is cohesive when its members respect one another as equals regardless of differences, and when it works for everyone and not just a few.”
“The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) will focus on building a caring, cohesive and confident nation that is enabled by an active citizenry and a vibrant arts and heritage, sports, community and youth landscape. There are many challenges we will face as a country in the next chapter of our journey. These include economic and demographic challenges, which may affect social cohesion and harmony. To rise above these challenges, Singaporeans must have a strong sense of shared identity, trust and engage one another, and exercise their civic responsibilities for the common good. MCCY will do more to encourage these qualities and grow a strong society. Our culture and heritage are important parts of what make us Singaporean. This year, we launched the Our SG Heritage Plan, a long-term comprehensive national masterplan to safeguard and promote our shared heritage for future generations. We ratified the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage on 22 February 2018. As a member state, we will work towards listing an element on the UNESCO Representative List that reflects our multicultural and multiracial makeup, resonates with Singaporeans, and helps build a greater sense of national identity. We will continue our conversations with the community to define the intangible aspects of our heritage. This demonstrates Singapore’s commitment to safeguard and promote our heritage, which is important to strengthen our identity as a nation. We will also make changes to the relevant legislation within the next two years to better support the preservation of our tangible and intangible heritage, and to safeguard our archaeological history more effectively.”
“Smoking is prohibited at all sporting facilities. This is in line with the Smoking (Prohibition in Certain Places) Act administered by the National Environment Agency, where smoking is prohibited in stadiums, swimming pools, indoor sports arenas, gymnasiums, fitness centres and so on. The consumption of alcohol at sporting facilities is generally disallowed. However, alcohol can be sold to spectators and consumed at certain events, subject to the approval of venue operators and licensing authorities. To date, Sport Singapore has received few complaints related to smoking and alcohol consumption within and in the vicinity of sporting facilities.”
“Mr Speaker, may I seek your consent and the general assent of Members present to move, "That the proceedings on the item under discussion be exempted from the provisions of Standing Order No 48(8) to remove the time limit in respect of Senior Minister of State Indranee Rajah's speech."”
“Ultimately, success will depend less on what the Government does, but far more on what each and every one of us chooses to do today and every day. To win the future, to ride out the challenges of income inequality, disruptive technology and an ageing society, we need the support of all Singaporeans, young and old, to nurture a strong society with an entrepreneurial dare and a smart nation with a heart. Together with everyone in Singapore, we can build a strong Singapore society, anchored in meritocracy, self-reliance, hard work and compassion for the vulnerable and realise our ideal of being one united people. And where ideals and drive meet ability and opportunities, Singapore will be well-placed to seize the future. [Applause.] 2.47 pm”
“When I entered politics, I wanted to help build a Singapore where my children could grow up in a safe environment that protects them from harm, a Singapore where they can find meaningful work and opportunities to realise their potential, a Singapore where they can build a happy home and know the joy of raising their own families, and the space to find fulfilment and give back to society. I believe this is a future that is shared by many of us here. It is the legacy we wish to gift our children. How do we get to our ideal state? We have to find ways that work. I know that we achieve this not by spoiling our children and giving them everything on a silver platter; not by disregarding how race and religion continue to define us, even though meritocracy means we have equal opportunity; and not by promising our children equal outcomes regardless of effort. I know that the best way is to teach our children how to fish instead of promising an endless supply of fish. This is what this Budget is about. The Government plays the role of an enabler. By supporting enterprise, creating a business-friendly environment, providing incentives for lifelong learning and helping workers upskill, enhancing support for education and social services, and fostering an environment of compassion and care, we are providing opportunities for Singaporeans to achieve their dreams, and creating a society where everyone takes ownership. Every Budget is a social vision and a statement of values. Mr Speaker, I believe my ideal Singapore is shared by many of my colleagues in this Chamber, and many more of you outside, all of whom are working hard to build the future that we want for one another, for our children and for our children’s children, the best way we know how.”
“But beyond the figures and the measures we discussed, some Members searched deep – what are the purposes that we wish to achieve and how do we get there? Ms Kuik Shiao-Yin reminded us that beyond being pragmatic in an uncertain future, we must also be bold enough to fight for our ideals. But I agree with Mr Murali Pillai that pragmatism and ideals are not mutually exclusive. To tackle the problems of today and prepare ourselves for tomorrow, we must be bold and embrace change. We must have that grit and bias for action that make us an exceptional nation. This would not be the case had we no ideals. We are an unexpected nation that triumphed against all odds. Through tenacity and sacrifice, through courage and adaptability, our forefathers built a nation that all of us can proudly call our Home. They upheld the values and ideals of meritocracy, incorruptibility, multiracialism and personal responsibility to build a modern and vibrant city with opportunities for all. Today, we can walk the streets feeling safe at night; we take clean air and water for granted; all our children go to good schools where guns and drugs are unheard of; and our youths have diverse opportunities to pursue their dreams. Singaporeans, young and old, are dreaming big and striving to give their best. Ms Kuik Shiao-Yin observed that children in Singapore had big dreams, regardless of their socio-economic status. We want to support them in achieving their ambitions. This is why I dedicated myself to public service.”
“On domestic issues relating to housing, transport and the environment, Members welcomed the measures to better support families by reducing the waiting time for flats for young couples, to better regulate Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) and shared-bikes and to make Singapore more environmentally sustainable. Members also discussed at length enhancements to education, social services delivery and healthcare. This year, a joint address was delivered by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), Ministry of Health (MOH) and MCCY on SG Cares, which reminded us that, in good times and bad, it is the spirit of caring, giving and compassion that binds us together. I should remind the House of the role that you have played, Speaker, in planting the seeds of SG Cares. You have been a passionate advocate in calling upon Singaporeans to play an active part in creating a caring and cohesive society and you continue to co-chair the Committee with Desmond and I. Indeed, nation-building goes beyond what the Government can do through its policies and efforts. So much more can be achieved when we do it as one united people. With everyone playing their part, Singapore can stand fast in the face of challenges to come. Mr Speaker, Sir, this year saw a total of 530 cuts filed for a total time of 3,120 minutes, or 52 hours, the longest speech time required for cuts over the past five years. This speaks to the breadth and gravity of the issues we face today. The debate over the past eight days has been vigorous. I thank the Members for undertaking their roles with dedication and for upholding decorum in this House. More importantly, Members of Parliament (MPs) stayed true to speaking up for their residents, for our people.”
“Coupled with recent interest on the issue of social inequality, it comes as no surprise that the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) dominated much of the airtime in this Debate. Members asked how we could support different segments of the workforce so that everyone has a place in the future economy, be it helping older workers and women, uplifting low-wage workers, or supporting freelancers and self-employed persons. While we strive to transform our industries, Members were also concerned about the prospects of local firms, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and displaced professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs), and how we can help them strengthen capabilities and remain competitive so that good jobs are created for our people. Members' questions for MCCY reflect their interest in the softer aspects of nation-building. Members rightly highlighted that besides preparing our workforce for the future economy, we also need to strengthen social cohesion across race, religion and class lines, and create diverse and inclusive opportunities for Singaporeans to grow and pursue their aspirations. Across the House, Members were concerned about whether Singapore was prepared to deal with external threats and internal challenges. On foreign policy and security matters, Members debated how Singapore could respond to the changing geopolitical landscape, the dangers of segregationism and extremism, and the demands of cybersecurity.”
“Mr Speaker, please allow me to make some concluding remarks on 2018's Budget and Committee of Supply (COS) debates. I would like to begin with a few words of thanks. Mr Speaker, Sir, we would not have had such a smooth COS if not for your even-handed stewardship of the debate proceedings. On behalf of all the Members in this House, I wish to thank you and your Deputies for presiding ably over the sessions and maintaining high standards for the proceedings. Our thanks also go to the Parliament Secretariat and support staff in the Chamber, in the Library, in the Members’ Room and at the Gate for their dedicated assistance, the translators who persevered along with us, as well as to all the officers from the Ministries and agencies who have worked hard to support us from behind the benches. I wish also to extend my appreciation to the members of the media who have brought the debate to Singaporeans. The Minister for Finance said in his Budget Statement that Budget 2018 was about laying the foundation for our nation’s future. Over the last eight days, Members in this House debated on what we can do, and how we can do better, to create a brighter future together. Budget 2018 outlines the steps we will take to prepare for a changing global economic landscape, rapid technological advances and an ageing population. These shifts present opportunities for growth, but also challenge the strength of our social compact. As we embrace globalisation and technology to expand opportunities for our businesses, to transform industries and build deep capabilities, how do we ensure that we move forward together and leave no one behind?”
“The key responsibility of MCCY is thus to create more platforms for Singaporeans of different backgrounds to interact, facilitating a deeper understanding for one another, in turn, building a cohesive, inclusive and caring society. Through the SG Cares movement, the Government will work with corporates and citizens to mobilise resources and match them with the communities in need. Together, we can construct a more effective social safety net and nurture a more caring and supportive society. If we can be more considerate and extend a helping hand to others when we are able to, then we will be building a more resilient Singapore, a country where our elders will be taken care of, the able-bodied can contribute meaningfully, our young can grow and develop, and our vulnerable members will be supported.”
“Singaporeans are willing, whether it is to help the vulnerable or disadvantaged, or give to social causes. But there is a gap between desire and action. Just slightly over half of those interested in volunteering their time have actually volunteered in any activity in the past year. Many youths have also deemed helping the less fortunate and contributing to society as very important life goals, but fewer thought that active involvement in volunteer work was important. SG Cares seeks to bridge this gap. Yesterday, Minister Desmond Lee, Minister Gan Kim Yong and I spoke about building a more caring and inclusive home for every Singaporean through SG Cares. As Minister Heng Swee Keat highlighted in his Budget Statement, the SG Cares movement is about bringing diverse people together to achieve a greater collective impact. SG Cares provides a platform that will encourage and support individuals, corporates and organisations to work together for the common good. In line with SG Cares, we will continue to expand volunteering opportunities provided through sports, heritage and arts. To cultivate a caring society, we will also ensure that we have a strong charity sector. Senior Minister of State Sim Ann will elaborate on these efforts. Chairman, please allow me to conclude in Mandarin. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Amid the global landscape of increased anti-globalisation sentiments and disruptive technologies, Singapore is facing economic and industry shifts, the need for skills upgrading, and challenges from an ageing population. These rapid developments present opportunities but also give rise to societal issues, such as unequal income growth, as well as racial and religious extremism.”
“We also plan to introduce two Mobile Labs. Working with PA, we will bring these Mobile Labs to the CC and Residents' Committee (RC) spaces as well as Sports-in-Precinct facilities. Once onboarded with your baseline health indicators assessed, you can choose from a wide range of sports and physical activity programmes offered by ActiveSG at our sports centres across Singapore to pursue your health goals. You can also arrange for follow-up sessions with our Active Health experts to check on your progress and obtain feedback that can help you and your doctor plan for medical follow-ups, if necessary. We are also developing a mobile platform through which you, your doctor and the Active Health expert will be able to track and monitor your health progress beyond the clinic and the lab. You can also connect with your family, friends and other Active Health users for mutual support, as well as sign up for ActiveSG programmes or book sports facilities to stay active together. With Active Health, we want to create a holistic support system where Singaporeans proactively take ownership of their health, engage in physical activity and be the social reinforcement that we all need to stay healthy and active. We can be a nation of healthy, active and engaged citizens, where we help one another live better. Ultimately, shared identity and shared experiences must translate into action if they are to add up to a strong society. When we see what we have in common, when we embrace those different from ourselves, we should also grow to care and feel responsible for one another. In the face of a more complex and unpredictable future, we need every Singaporean to step up and be a part of the answer that the society needs. In a strong society, everyone helps.”
“Concerned by his blood pressure readings, the doctor referred him to the Active Health Lab. At the lab, Joseph went through a free onboarding session comprising a series of non-invasive assessments on body composition and other health markers, for an overview of his current health status. At almost 126 kilogrammes (kg) then, our Active Health experts worked with Joseph to set his personal health and wellness goals and advised him to start making small changes to his lifestyle. Joseph, who used to have a largely sedentary lifestyle, started walking more, watching his diet and sleeping better. A newspaper reported his case in February and mentioned that he has lost three kg in one month. I am happy to report that Joseph is now exercising more, six days a week, Monday to Saturday. Sunday, he rests. His exercise comprises running interval trainings, strength workouts and stretching exercises. Since starting his Active Health journey and after three follow-up sessions, Joseph lost about six kg and has seen improvements in his blood pressure and body mass index (BMI). Like Joseph, you may be looking to manage your weight better; you may be a senior looking to enhance your flexibility; you may be a working adult looking for ways to keep a balanced and healthy lifestyle amid a busy schedule. Active Health is for you, is for everyone, regardless of who you are and what your health and wellness goals are. To kickstart your personal Active Health journey, all you have to do is visit an Active Health Lab. In addition to the Active Health Labs at Our Tampines Hub and Heartbeat@Bedok, we plan to roll out four more at Bishan, Jurong East, Sengkang and Woodlands sports centres in the coming year, so that there is a lab accessible to every Singaporean.”
“Like many Singaporeans and like Ms Sylvia Lim, we have high expectations for the Sports Hub, and we share the view that the operator SportsHub Pte Ltd (SHPL) can do more to enhance the vibrancy of the project. SportSG is closely monitoring the operator’s performance and is in regular communication with its top management to ensure that we realise the value of the Sports Hub for Singaporeans. In his Budget Statement, Minister Heng Swee Keat highlighted that one of the major shifts we will see in the coming decade is ageing. To meet the challenges of an ageing society, the Ministry of Health (MOH) declared War on Diabetes last year as a national effort to keep our population healthy as we age. I agree with Ms Joan Pereira and Mr Darryl David that sports and exercise are also important for health. Therefore, in this war, my Ministry will play our part through Active Health, a national social movement to spur Singaporeans to take ownership of their health and wellness, help one another meet their goals and to celebrate living better through sports together. Going beyond healthcare to health, Active Health will be a journey that we embark on together for health and wellness through sports. Just as sports can bring communities together, it takes a community to nurture healthy, active and engaged individuals who will live better through sports. Staying healthy is more than having a first-class national healthcare system. It is about having family, friends, colleagues and community organisations joining efforts to support one another stay healthy. Members may have heard of Mr Joseph Chen’s Active Health journey. Over three months ago, 27-year-old Joseph visited his general practitioner (GP) because of a cold.”
“SportSG is rejuvenating our existing public sports facilities in phases under the Master Plan to cater to increasing demand and ensure greater accessibility to our existing sports centres. This year, we will see the rejuvenation of a few sports centres, such as those in Delta and Choa Chu Kang. I would like to assure Mr Patrick Tay that we will rejuvenate the Boon Lay Hockey Village in the near future. SportSG will also work with Boon Lay CC on sharing facilities and programmes to enhance sporting experiences for residents. Ms Sylvia Lim asked about the Sports Hub. The Sports Hub is a place where memories as a nation is made, where Singaporeans can come together to enjoy a wide range of sports, lifestyle and entertainment events, celebrate our National Day and cheer on Team Singapore like we did at the SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games in 2015. It is also an important training venue for many of our National Sports Associations (NSAs). The Sports Hub has seen a steady increase in its visitor traffic since opening in 2014. Last year, it welcomed about 1.4 million visitors attending over 200 events across its venues, an increase from about 1.2 million visitors attending over 180 events in 2016. This year, it will continue to host major sporting events like the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) Singapore Rugby Sevens, the International Champions Cup and the National Schools’ Games. An ASEAN e-Sports tournament will also be held at the Sports Hub for the first time, in conjunction with GetActive! Singapore and National Youth Council’s SHINE Festival. These events will take place alongside the regular community programming, such as the quarterly Sports Hub Community Play Days and free Learn-to-Play Programmes.”
“Singapore 2018, we will expand the footprint and bring the celebrations even closer to the community. The biennial Singapore National Games will return and will incorporate the National Para Games, which will be the largest national para sports competition. We will partner the Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC) to introduce more para and adaptive sports events. Under the Sports Facilities Master Plan, we will enhance and expand sporting access to Singaporeans through an extensive network of sporting spaces across the country. Mr Melvin Yong asked about the progress on this front. At the regional and town levels, we have opened sports centres at Our Tampines Hub and HeartBeat@Bedok. In the next few years, a new integrated sports and community hub in Sembawang will be ready. Details will be announced later this year. We also have new facilities lined up, including new playfields at Yan Kit and Jurong Lake. The latter will be our first "sport-in-the-park" collaboration with the National Parks Board (NParks). Through our Sports-in-Precinct programme and Dual-Use Scheme, we continue to roll out accessible play spaces and facilities closer to our neighbourhoods. Following the pilot projects in Boon Lay and Jurong Spring, we will be developing six more Sports-in-Precinct facilities in Bukit Batok, Keat Hong, Hong Kah North, Nee Soon Central, Taman Jurong and Tampines North constituencies. Under the Dual-Use Scheme, we now have close to 260 facilities, including Indoor Sports Halls, courts and fields opened for shared use. We will progressively open up the remaining 300 or so Dual-Use Scheme facilities by around 2020. Ms Joan Pereira and Mr Melvin Yong spoke about upgrading the older sports complexes.”