K Shanmugam
Singapore
“Bank accounts are frozen when there is reason to suspect that the bank accounts are involved in illicit activities, including money laundering activities.”
“The Singapore Police Force does not track the requested data. Distinguishing artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content typically requires more detailed forensic examination which may not be necessary in every investigation and may also not be conclusive as to whether AI-generative tools were used.”
“The Building and Construction Authority’s Code on Accessibility provides baseline requirements for accessible and inclusive buildings. It stipulates a minimum width of 1.5 metres or 1.8 metres for primary accessible routes, depending on the building type.”
“The Road Traffic (Motor Vehicles, Driving Licence) Rules under the Road Traffic Act set out the scope of the medical assessment required for motorists aged 65 and above who wish to retain their driving licences.”
“When a Police report has been made, the Police will investigate to determine if a criminal offence has been committed. If there is reasonable suspicion that a case is scam-related, the Police can direct online service providers to restrict Singapore users' access to the relevant online activity under the Online Criminal Harms Act.”
“Through intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement actions, the cross-border operation disrupted a transnational drug trafficking syndicate and downstream drug trafficking activities, with the UK arresting seven persons so far and further investigations underway.”
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“In terms of access to healthcare, education and housing, stateless persons who are Permanent Residents (PRs) are treated no differently from other PRs. For stateless persons who are not PRs, they can access the following services. For healthcare, the MediSave of their SC or PR family members can be used. Stateless children and young persons under the state's care can also access healthcare subsidies through the Medical Fee Exemption Card. They can also approach the healthcare institution’s medical social workers. For education, stateless students may enrol in our mainstream schools and tertiary institutions, subject to meeting the admission criteria. Stateless students can approach the schools for school-based assistance. They can also approach social service agencies for advice on the financial assistance available to them. For housing, stateless persons who are not PRs cannot buy or rent a flat from the Housing and Development Board (HDB). However, they can live in an HDB flat as an occupier if they are part of an SC or PR family that is eligible to buy or rent a flat. For those who face genuine housing difficulties and have no other housing options, HDB will work with the relevant agencies like the Ministry of Social and Family Development to assess how best to assist them.”
“Like many other countries, Singapore does not automatically grant citizenship to a child just by virtue of the child being born here. Our Constitution automatically confers Singapore citizenship on children born in Singapore to married parents, when at least one parent is a Singapore Citizen (SC). If the child is born to foreign parents, we do not automatically confer citizenship and would assess any citizenship application alongside all other applications. Applications for Singapore citizenship are evaluated on a range of criteria. These include the conduct and contributions of the applicant, links to Singapore, including if they have family members who are Singaporeans, and how long they have been in Singapore. The circumstances under which the person became stateless would also be taken into consideration. Because of our policy on citizenship, we have made a reservation to Article 7 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which the Member asked about. As of 31 December 2023, there were seven stateless persons under the age of 12, and 13 were between the ages of 12 and 18. This constitutes 2.3% of the total number of stateless persons in Singapore. Their circumstances vary, but one reason is being born in Singapore to foreign parents who did not obtain citizenship of their country for their child. It is the responsibility of the parents or legal guardians to take care of the child’s well-being, including obtaining citizenship for their child. However, if a child or young person has no parent or caregiver willing or able to provide care or guardianship in Singapore, they may be provided with statutory protection under the Children and Young Persons Act.”
“The Ministry does not track the percentage of orders issued by the Small Claims Tribunals (SCT) that require enforcement. From 2019 to August 2024, there were about 880 applications for enforcement of an SCT order. The costs for enforcement are prescribed under the Rules of Court. We do not track the legal fees that consumers may incur in enforcing the SCT order. This is case specific and depends on the scope of work to be performed and is a matter to be agreed between the consumer and his lawyer. Parties who require legal advice on the enforcement of SCT orders may approach the State Courts’ Community Justice Centre for free onsite legal advice or seek assistance from other legal clinics, such as those organised by the Law Society Pro Bono Services or community centres.”
“For individuals placed on the Debt Repayment Scheme (DRS) administered by the Official Assignee (OA) from 2019 to 2023, the average total amount owed by each debtor is about $67,500. The law specifies that up to $2,250 is payable to the OA by debtors on a debt repayment plan of a maximum five years under DRS. This amount covers costs of determining the debtor’s suitability for DRS as well as administration of the DRS. The law also provides for 1.5% of amounts collected from debtors under the DRS and for 3% of amounts distributed to creditors under the DRS to be payable to the OA as fees. These amounts vary greatly between cases based on the details of individual debt repayment plans the OA approves, which depend on multiple factors, such as the debt size, the debtor’s income and the debtor’s circumstances. The Ministry does not regulate third-party debt consultancies or the fees they charge and, hence, does not have information on fees.”
“As of 30 September 2024, the Police have rejected six applications for a licence to operate a debt collection business under the Debt Collection Act. Police assessed that the applicants and key appointment holders do not fulfil the fit and proper criteria, including because of criminal antecedents of unlicensed moneylending and voluntarily causing hurt to others.”
“The number of Permanent Residents (PRs) and Singapore Citizens (SCs) granted each year, including selected profile indicators, such as age group, highest qualification attained among those aged 20 and over, and region of origin, are published annually. In granting permanent residency and Singapore citizenship, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority assesses each application based on a range of factors. The applicant’s length of residency is only one of the factors considered. The other factors include, but are not limited to, the applicant’s family ties to Singaporeans, economic contributions, educational qualifications, age and family profile, the applicant’s ability to integrate into our society and commitment to sinking roots in Singapore. Different criteria may apply to different applicants, depending on their background and circumstances, for example, an applicant applying as a spouse of an SC will be considered differently from someone applying on the basis of having stayed in Singapore for a period of time and contributed to employment creation in Singapore. The Government will not make public data on the length of residency of new PRs and SCs by percentile. This could be used by others, including potential applicants, who may try to tailor their applications to game the system. Foreign countries could also make use of the data in a way that may not be consistent with our national interests. Thus, while we make public some indicators, as referred to in the first paragraph, we have to be careful that we do so in a way consistent with our national interests.”
“As of 31 December 2023, we know of 853 stateless persons living in Singapore. But this number could vary for the reasons given below. The data on their length of residency, however, is unavailable because of the different circumstances under which they may become stateless. For example, some have chosen to give up, or had lost their foreign citizenship, at some point during their stay in Singapore. Others were born in Singapore to foreign parents who did not obtain citizenship for them. We may come to know of their stateless status only when they surrender to or are referred to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority. Given that there are such cases, we would not have precise data on how many stateless persons there are and the precise period for which they have been stateless. Applications for Singapore citizenship, including those submitted by stateless individuals, are evaluated on a range of criteria. These include the conduct and contributions of the applicant, links to Singapore, including if they have family members who are Singaporeans, and how long they have been in Singapore. The circumstances under which the person became stateless would also be taken into consideration. As one of the world’s smallest and most densely populated countries, we must be highly discerning as to whom we grant citizenship. Hence, we carefully consider all applications for citizenship, on a case-by-case basis.”
“The Member may refer to the report on the Annual Road Traffic Situation 2023 on the Police’s website for the annual number of road traffic accidents. The Traffic Police (TP) do not track the number of road deaths per billion vehicle kilometres. TP tracks the number of road deaths per 100,000 population, which is one of the Global Health Observatory indicators, and Sustainable Development Goals tracked by the World Health Organization. TP also tracks the number of road deaths per 10,000 vehicles.”
“Between 2019 and 2023, there were six cases of theft committed by employees or staff working at Singapore airports, one of which involved an Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officer. All Home Team officers, including ICA officers, are subject to a stringent recruitment process and regular security vetting. Annually, they are required to declare their financial standing and subjected to credit bureau screening. The Member asked about the measures in place to prevent theft by ICA officers. Supervisors monitor the officers to ensure that they are acting in accordance with established procedures. In addition, ICA officers performing security checks are deployed in pairs and any search of a traveller’s belongings is conducted in the presence of the traveller and closed-circuit television cameras. Officers also carry body-worn cameras which allow ICA to review and assess the conduct of the officers where necessary. Our measures are generally effective in preventing misconduct by officers. But as Members will appreciate, there might always be someone, in any organisation, who is tempted to behave badly, regardless of training, rules and discipline. These things do happen from time to time. We put in place processes to reduce the risk of this occurring and such cases are also likely to be detected if they do occur. Where such cases are detected, the officers involved will be subject to disciplinary action. If offences are disclosed, criminal investigations will also be initiated and they will face higher punishments, compared to others who commit thefts, for example.”
“The Singapore Police Force (SPF) works closely with various Government agencies and landowners, such as the Singapore Land Authority, National Parks Board and Ministry of Defence, to keep these locations free from illegal activities through monitoring, sharing of information and joint operations. SPF will respond when there are reports of suspicious activities with law-and-order concerns. SPF is equipped with an array of capabilities to respond to such incidents. The Gurkha Contingent and Special Operations Command have specialised capabilities for search and rescue and manhunt operations within forested areas. SPF also deploys technological tools, including drones with thermal-imaging capabilities, to augment the ground response. Illegal activities commonly detected in forested areas include those involving illegal immigrants and vice activities.”
“The law sets out the circumstances when public gatherings require permit. In addition, the Police also take action when there are law and order issues. Where there are no law and order issues or where the gatherings do not require permit, the Police will generally not intervene or restrict such gatherings.”
“From 1 April 2022 to 31 July 2024, the Small Claims Tribunals (SCT) issued about 10,750 money orders and work orders. The Ministry does not track compliance with SCT orders nor the reasons that a party fails to execute or enforce an order. Parties who require legal advice on the enforcement of SCT orders may approach the State Courts’ Community Justice Centre for free onsite legal advice or seek assistance from other legal clinics, such as those organised by the Law Society Pro Bono Services or community centres.”
“In the past three years, the Small Claims Tribunals (SCT) has issued about 12,200 money orders and work orders that relate to a contractual dispute for the sale of goods or the provision of services. There are currently no plans to increase the current claim limit of the SCT. The SCT is designed as a quick and inexpensive forum for the resolution of small claims. In this regard, parties are required to present their own case. Legal representation is not allowed. The SCT also adopts a Judge-led approach, that is, the SCT magistrate will take the lead to identify the relevant issues in the claim and ensure that parties adduce relevant evidence. This reduces the need for parties to seek legal advice on their claims. Filing fees for individuals are relatively low, at $10 for claims up to $5000; and $20 for claims between $5000 to $10,000. Claimants with financial difficulties may apply to the Registrar for a waiver or deferment of the filing fees.”
“There are over 150 countries whose citizens do not require a visa to enter Singapore. It is not practical nor meaningful to publish their crime statistics. There are also bilateral considerations and it may send the wrong message to bona fide visitors from these countries. The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) uses a risk-based, multi-layered approach to balance between border security and the facilitation of travellers. The Member may refer to the Oral reply delivered on 9 September 2024 in response to a question posed by Mr Leong Mun Wai, for more details. [Please refer to "Number of Social Visit Pass Holders from China who Have Been Arrested", Official Report, 9 September 2024, Vol 95, Issue 140, Oral Answers to Questions section.] We are satisfied with the current measures and, for now, do not see a need for an additional electronic travel authorisation regime. Also, such a regime will make visiting Singapore more inconvenient.”
“In the first half of 2024, there were 17 fire incidents in residential premises involving active mobility devices (AMDs). The annual number of AMD fire incidents in residential premises has decreased from 78 incidents in 2019, to 31 and 35 in 2022 and 2023 respectively. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) adopts a firm stance towards the import, sale and use of non-compliant AMDs. Since June 2021, businesses and individuals must obtain LTA's approval to import Power-Assisted Bicycles (PABs) and motorised Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) into Singapore. These devices must meet the prescribed technical and safety requirements before they can be used on our public paths and roads. The LTA also conducts enforcement operations against non-compliant AMD users as well as errant retailers. Between 2020 and 2023, LTA detected around 5,100 offences involving non-compliant AMD devices on paths and roads and about 100 violations by retailers. Non-compliant devices are immediately seized and enforcement action taken. For first-time offenders, the maximum penalty for using a non-compliant device on a public path is a fine up to $10,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both. As for retailers, the maximum penalty for displaying a non-compliant device for sale is a fine of up to $20,000; and the maximum penalty for individuals illegally modifying a device is a fine of up to $20,000 or imprisonment for up to 24 months, or both. The Active Mobility Fire Safety Taskforce, co-chaired by LTA and the Singapore Civil Defence Force, will continue its public education efforts on the dangers of using non-compliant devices, proper usage and safety tips, as well as how to dispose of motorised AMDs in a safe and responsible manner.”
“Carparks in Singapore are designed in accordance with the Fire Code. For example, they are built with fire-rated walls and doors to be able to contain the fire from spreading to other parts of the building prior to the Singapore Civil Defence Force's (SCDF's) arrival. Ventilation needs to be provided, through either natural or mechanical means, to disperse smoke, heat and gases emitted during the fire. For enclosed basement carparks, sprinklers are also required. These fire safety systems undergo regular maintenance and inspection, as part of Fire Code requirements. In March 2022, SCDF mandated at least one emergency main isolation shut-off switch to be provided within 15 metres of an Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station. This switch cuts off the power supply to both the charging station and the EV being charged in the event of a fire. Since 2023, SCDF and the Land Transport Authority have been co-chairing a multi-agency EV Safety Taskforce to monitor and manage EV-related matters, such as fire risks. The Taskforce will continue to regularly review safety requirements to support the adoption of EVs in Singapore.”
“The data is as follows: Over the past three years, drivers aged 21 years and below constituted 1.35% of all drivers who were caught for drink-driving and 4% of all drivers who were involved in traffic accidents.”
“The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority's (ICA's) transformation of its services is guided by its three “N” vision of “No Fuss, No Visit and No Waiting”. To this end, ICA has digitalised its services and made them easy to use, so that members of the public can access these services anytime and from anywhere. Close to 95% of ICA’s services are available digitally. We are cognisant, nevertheless, that some members of the public, particularly the elderly, may need some help in using these services. They may approach officers at the ICA Services Centre for assistance.”
“In order to qualify for legal aid, an applicant will have to pass both a means test and a merits test. For the means test, the applicant has to declare all savings, investments and property, including those overseas, which will be taken into account as part of the means test assessment.”
“The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) issued about 74,000 Student's Passes in 2023, with the median duration of the pass issued being about a year. In 2023, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) took enforcement action against 143 Student's Pass holders, or 0.16% of all Student's Pass holders, for working illegally. ICA assesses every application carefully. For example, applicants who cannot demonstrate that they have the financial means to support themselves during their studies in Singapore will be rejected. There are also penalties to deter and punish Student's Pass holders who work illegally. Offenders can face a fine of up to $20,000 or imprisonment of up to two years, or both. ICA and MOM will also cancel their Student's Pass, deport them and debar them from future employment in Singapore. Employers who illegally employ Student's Pass holders or abet Student's Pass holders in illegal employment may face a fine of at least $5,000 and up to $30,000 or imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both. Their work pass privileges may also be suspended.”
“The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) does not track the number of requests it receives for death certificates to be issued for persons presumed dead by the Courts. ICA does not issue death certificates for such persons. A Court order for the presumption of death is generally sufficient for administrative purposes, such as estate management. However, the next-of-kin of a person presumed dead can submit the Court order for the presumption of death to ICA to update the Registry of Deaths accordingly.”
“The Commercial Affairs Department (CAD) had seized funds of $15.16 million and US$4.97 million in connection with the investigation into Sunshine Empire Pte Ltd (Sunshine). Given the large number of potential claimants and the complex financial relationships between Sunshine and its affiliates, verifying these competing claims and distributing the seized funds is a complicated and protracted exercise. Professional liquidators had been engaged to ensure a fair and equitable distribution of funds to entitled claimants. Subsequent to an order made by High Court in September 2020, CAD had released all the funds seized, including accrued interest, to the liquidators. The liquidators have written to potential claimants to invite them to submit their claims. To date, more than 4,000 creditors have filed their proof of debt. The liquidators are in the advanced stages of assessing the validity and quantum of these claims and expect to conclude the liquidation by the middle of next year.”
“The Traffic Police does not specifically track data related to whether a fatal accident was caused by a reversing large vehicle. As previously shared in this House, the Land Transport Authority requires all heavy goods vehicles and buses to install devices that cover the vehicle's blind spots as well as the rear view. These devices include blind spot mirrors and camera systems. Owners of non-compliant vehicles may be subject to penalties, including fines and jail.”
“The automated immigration lanes at the checkpoints are designed to allow travellers to use them easily and independently. They have visual cues and on-screen videos, such as footprint stickers on the floor, and arrows to guide users where to look for the facial and iris scans. Nevertheless, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority still deploys its officers onsite, who will approach and guide travellers whom they notice may require assistance during automated immigration clearance.”
“The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth works closely with community partners to encourage ground-up projects that promote racial and religious harmony. IMDA and its partners, such as the Media Literacy Council, provide resources under the Digital Skills for Life framework, to impart skills on how to use the Internet responsibly.”
“The Government has in place laws to enforce against behaviour that erodes our social cohesion, including hate and offensive speech of a racial or religious nature. These apply both offline and online. One key legislation is the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act (MRHA). We can issue Restraining Orders under MRHA to immediately take down religiously inflammatory online material. Restraining Orders can also require the individuals to stop undertaking communications activity related to religiously offensive material, including removing any materials posted on the Internet. The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced plans to introduce the Maintenance of Racial Harmony Bill, which will provide for a similar Restraining Order regime for threats against our racial harmony. There are other laws that help set the boundaries of what is unacceptable conduct. The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) can issue Directions under the Broadcasting Act to disable egregious content on social media services from being able to reach Singapore users. This includes content likely to cause feelings of hatred or hostility against different racial or religious groups in Singapore. The Online Criminal Harms Act allows the Government to issue Directions to online services, including social media platforms, when there is reasonable suspicion that an online activity is criminal in nature. This includes activities that threaten racial or religious harmony. The Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act allows us to swiftly address online falsehoods which, if left unchecked, can engender hate, xenophobia and societal discord. Apart from laws and regulations, there is also a need to foster social norms for respectful online behaviour and discourse.”
“Between 2019 and 2023, there were, on average, about 10 cases every year involving rioting with a deadly weapon under section 148 of the Penal Code. Of these cases, slightly more than half involved offenders below 21 years of age. The Police investigate all reports of rioting, including those involving youths. If the Attorney-General's Chambers decides subsequently to prosecute the case, it will be dealt with in the Youth Court or another appropriate Court, depending on the nature of the case and the age of the suspect. There are measures in place to ensure the well-being of young offenders below the age of 18 during the investigation process. For example, the Appropriate Adult Scheme for Young Suspects ensures that law enforcement interviews are conducted in the presence of a neutral and independent adult who provides emotional support to the young suspect being interviewed and facilitates communication between the investigation officer and the suspect.”
“Between 2022 and June 2024, the Singapore Police Force recovered about $300 million in scam losses through its investigation and enforcement efforts. We do not track the number of victims who have been able to recover their losses, whether from law enforcement operations or compensation from banks and other entities.”
“For example, RRG’s “Youth Counselling Manual” provides a structured and customised religious counselling approach for them. To aid their reintegration into society, ISD minimises disruption to their education and arranges for them to participate in relevant community programmes. A mentoring programme has been introduced to provide a role model to guide the youths in personal growth and development. These rehabilitation efforts have seen some success. Of the 13 self-radicalised youth cases since 2015, four out of seven who were detained have since been released. Of the six who were issued with Restriction Orders (ROs), ISD has allowed the ROs of three of them to lapse. I thank Members of this House for your strong support, too. MHA will continue to work closely with Government agencies and the community to counter the threat of terrorism and violent extremism. Our strongest defence is our collective vigilance, preparedness, resilience and unity.”
“One of the personas featured in the SGSecure campaign launched last year is the "True Friend", someone who can spot early signs of radicalisation and shows care for a friend who is potentially radicalised, by getting help for him from the authorities. The SGSecure website has a resource kit on signs of radicalisation and the reporting channels available. This resource kit is disseminated to religious and community organisations, self-help groups and counselling hotline operators. Another way to reach out to youths is through digital content. In July, we launched the SGSecure Instagram account. These efforts aim to raise awareness of the role individuals can play in countering terrorism. RRG has also expanded its digital outreach efforts through its TikTok account which was launched in June 2023. It is also important to provide avenues for our people to discuss such issues. The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) encourages dialogues and other initiatives to discuss sensitive issues relating to race and religion in a responsible and respectful manner. For example, the Racial and Religious Harmony Circles bring together people from different races and faiths to promote cross-cultural interactions and shared experiences. There are also youth-centric initiatives, such as OnePeople.SG’s annual HarmonyWorks! Conference, where youths can come together to discuss issues concerning racial and religious relations. The National Youth Council has also developed civic conversation toolkits to facilitate meaningful and respectful discussions amongst youths on complex yet important issues, including race and religion. Finally, ISD partners RRG and ACG to rehabilitate radicalised youths.”
“ISD and MOE have jointly produced an online guide for parents and guardians on protecting their children from radicalisation. MOE also ensures that students learn about the importance of social cohesion and racial and religious harmony. Through subjects like Social Studies and History, students learn about the negative impact of extremist ideas, prejudice and stereotypes, and how these can be countered. In Character and Citizenship Education, students learn to develop empathy and respect for one another. They learn to recognise harmful content and be more discerning of information they get from different sources, including online. Learning journeys to places of worship and heritage sites, and the celebration of cultural festivals, also help the students develop an appreciation of and a stronger sensitivity to racial and religious issues. Schools have established a peer support structure, where students are taught to speak up for their peers when their peers experience racism and hate speech. Through Co-Curricular Activities and other school experiences, students interact with one another, regardless of background. These social bonds can help counter the impact of exclusivist or extremist ideologies. Beyond the efforts in schools, ISD works with community partners, such as the Religious Rehabilitation Group (RRG) and Inter-Agency Aftercare Group (ACG), to strengthen the community’s resilience to extremist ideas. For example, RRG hosts visits to its Resource and Counselling Centre and Majulah Gallery, and conducts youth forums on countering violent extremism. Underpinning our public outreach efforts is the SGSecure movement.”
“My reply will address the questions raised by Mr Desmond Choo and Assoc Prof Razwana Begum in today’s Order Paper, as well as similar questions raised by Assoc Prof Razwana Begum1,2,3 for the subsequent Sitting. In Singapore, the terrorism threat comes primarily from self-radicalised individuals who have been influenced by extremist materials online. The number of radicalised youths has increased in recent years and they are increasingly younger. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) adopts a whole-of-society approach to tackle this threat. We have strengthened our legislative levers to block access to online extremist messaging and ideologies. For example, the Online Safety (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act, which amended the Broadcasting Act, and Online Criminal Harms Act allow the Government to disable access to egregious or criminal content online, including those that advocate terrorism and incite violence. However, it is not possible to block all extremist content, and new sites and accounts can easily be created. As such, public education remains essential to our strategy to counter extremism. The Internal Security Department (ISD) works with Government agencies and community groups to sensitise the public to the dangers of extremist ideas. The Ministry of Education (MOE) is a key partner of ISD’s outreach to schools and Institutes of Higher Learning. Last year, ISD organised more than 60 outreach events for over 2,000 participants, including students, educators and school counsellors. ISD works with MOE to train school counsellors and student welfare officers on behavioural indicators and appropriate interventions, including early reporting, for students who may be at risk of radicalisation.”
“I have explained the need for technology. Let us do a thought experiment. Let us do away with technology. Every single person, the 600,000 persons who are crossing our borders, will then have to be checked individually. And I think Members can appreciate that we might as well take a big hit on our economic sector. This is just not workable. You have to use technology. But I think the Member's real question is to what extent is technology supplemented by the assessment by our officers and that is a fair question. It is supplemented to a significant degree. We use AI, we use other techniques. They help us but, in the end, there is also an assessment by officers on selected and specific cases. There are also officers at the various checkpoints assessing people as they are walking through, going through and some are picked up for additional checks. Some are picked up based on information or documents submitted, while some are picked up based on our assessment of the individuals. And there have been a number of cases where the visas do not throw up anything and the passports are fine, but our officers, through their training, are able to assess that some individuals require further checks and quite often, that throws up persons who are carrying contraband, bringing in drugs or otherwise coming in with intentions that we do not agree with.”
“Visas require photographs. Photographs, I believe, were submitted, I have not checked on this case. The normal process would be that it would be cross-checked against the watchlist. It depends on the type of photograph that is submitted and the quality of the photograph. It may not always pick up against the database that we have and, without going into details, I think the Member also assumes that in our database, there will be photographs of all those who are listed in the watchlist. As I said, no country in the world has such a comprehensive set of data on all potential persons who might have to be excluded. Sometimes, we will only have names without photographs. As for the ability to cross-check, my understanding is that our systems are very advanced and if there is a broad match in the photographs, they would have picked it up. But the question assumes that we had a photograph to cross-check against.”
“On the first question, we have to use technology, and we are using technology and people have gone through our borders. We see increasingly more and more technology being introduced; multimodal biometric is one example. Singaporeans can now pretty much walk through. For foreigners, once they enrol, they can also use the systems. We want to make the airport and checkpoint experience smooth because, remember, the vast majority of persons who are coming into Singapore are coming in for business, tourist or social reasons, for valid purposes. And we cannot make their experience a difficult one. So, this is what I meant by balance between security and Singapore's economy, well-being and as a welcoming place for tourists and others who are coming into Singapore. A very small number come with bad intentions and our systems have so far been robust enough to pick most of them up. Mr Zhulkarnain spoke about gait and movements, those are all items, part of data that have long been used. There are technologies, there are techniques, it is some sort of science, and we work with other agencies across the world to study these and train our officers on these. To the second question, yes, there would normally be a visa. There would have to be a sponsor and there will have to be an agent. But in this case, there was a visa, there was a sponsor, but there is no agent because the person who sponsored is related to the dormitory operator and that person is being investigated as well.”
“We will continue to educate and remind our dormitory operators to ensure that they obtain the relevant approvals before conducting such activities in the dormitories. And of course, our best safeguard is a public that stays vigilant and reports these sorts of individuals and activities to the agencies.”
“The speech at the dormitory would be one such event. It applies to events involving religious teachings, regardless of whether the event takes place within a dormitory or elsewhere. Specifically for foreign worker dormitories, the Foreign Employee Dormitories Act imposes licence conditions that require operators to keep updated records of all non-residents, including visitors or contractors, who enter the living areas of the dormitories. Third, foreigners who wish to speak at public events that are religious, cause-based or political in nature are required to obtain a Miscellaneous Work Pass under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. The Ministry of Manpower consults relevant agencies, including ISD, in its assessment when such applications are received. In this case, investigations are ongoing. No arrests have yet been made. The offences that are being looked into include participation in an unlawful assembly under the Public Order Act and not obtaining a Miscellaneous Work Permit required under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. The dormitory operator was also the event organiser. He is being investigated for several offences including those under the Public Order Act, Employment of Foreign Manpower Act and Foreign Employee Dormitories Act. Mr Neil Parekh Nimil Rajnikant asked how often such illegal events occur within our migrant worker dormitories. I assume he meant events without authorisation. Based on our records and assessments, this sort of event does not usually take place. It is very rare because somebody will have to be actively in breach of all of these requirements. And of course, if we detect it, swift action will be taken.”
“Members will appreciate – we have to develop a framework for picking up some people of concern while allowing the vast majority to clear as quickly as possible. We need to strike a balance between security and facilitation at our borders. It is not possible nor practicable to subject every visitor, obviously, to stringent, detailed checks and interviews. No country has a comprehensive database of every criminal or person of security concern across the world. Certainly, Singapore does not have such a database. So, in summary, in terms of persons coming in, the majority of persons who are perceived to have dubious reasons or purposes for coming into Singapore are picked up either through the visa scheme or even without visas, through other information that we have at various levels. And as I have said, about 2,500 are rejected every month – some of them with visas, some of them without visas. But it is always possible that a small number will get through despite the several levels of checks. Members must also understand that the levels of checks and our information-gathering varies depending on the type and extent of risks. Obviously, ISD together with its foreign counterparts will have a closer awareness of persons who may want to do us physical harm in Singapore. I will not go into operational considerations, but there are a number of ways in which those persons would be picked up more easily. No system is foolproof, but there are different levels of checks. Members have also asked about the rules and regulations governing events at migrant worker dormitories and the actions the Government has taken to ensure that dormitory operators comply. The Public Order Act requires event organisers to apply for a Police permit for cause-based events that are open to the public.”
“ICA officers also look out for persons' reasons for visiting Singapore that may appear dubious or for other reasons that may require further checking, and these travellers might be required to undergo further checks. In July 2020, we also introduced the Multi-Modal Biometric System. First-time visitors will have their facial, iris and fingerprint images captured at immigration clearance, and that allows us to better detect repeat visitors who may try and come in using multiple identities or impersonated identities. For foreign visitors, this is usually done on the first occasion they visit Singapore. Our automated gates are generally able to detect forged passports as well. Since 2022, every month, about 30 visitors with legitimate passports but containing a different identity from ICA’s records were detected and refused entry. In all, for various reasons, about 2,500 visitors are refused entry at our checkpoints every month. Amir Hamza was on our watchlist. The Internal Security Department (ISD) had put him on the watchlist and that is because he had made statements promoting religious intolerance and for a few other reasons. He applied for a visa to enter Singapore using a passport with a name that was different from what we had in our database and therefore, that other name was not our watchlist. And he used that passport on 9 August to come into Singapore. As this was his first visit to Singapore, we did not have his biometrics. If he tries to come back again, regardless of what other passports he uses, he will be picked up because we now have his biometrics. Members have asked questions, broadly, about the security at our borders. There are about 600,000 travellers every day coming and going across all our checkpoints.”
“Thank you, Sir. My reply will also address a similar question raised by Mr Sharael Taha1 for a subsequent Sitting. Amir Hamza was invited by a dormitory operator. He came into Singapore on Independence Day, 9 August 2024. He preached to a group to Bangladeshi migrant workers on the same day at a dormitory. And he did so without a permit – that was unlawful. In his sermon, he made statements which were extremist and segregationist. He left Singapore next day, on 10 August 2024. Members have raised a number of questions, whether Amir Hamza was on the watchlist of the security agencies and, more broadly, the way in which persons come through Singapore’s borders. There are a number of steps taken at our borders, as many Members will be aware. Nationals of some countries are required to apply for visas even before they come in – Bangladesh is one such country. Applications from those on our watchlist or otherwise raise some questions, will usually be rejected. All travellers are also required to submit an SG Arrival Card before arriving in Singapore. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) uses that information, other information it receives and information from advance passenger lists from airlines, including flight manifests, and other sources of information, to conduct a pre-arrival risk assessment of the travellers. When the travellers come into Singapore, they are screened against a watchlist of persons, even as they undergo immigration clearance. Those on the watchlist or are identified to be of higher risk by ICA’s backend data analytics will be checked further.”
“Sir, with your permission, can I take together the questions relating to the case of the foreign preacher, Amir Hamza? The questions are from Mr Yip Hon Weng, Mr Neil Parekh, Mr Melvin Yong, Mr Ang Wei Neng, Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim and Mr Pritam Singh.”
“The Police do not track the number of people who have died alone and are not discovered for a period of time. As part of their community policing work, the Police proactively refer socially-isolated seniors they encounter to relevant agencies and community groups for assistance.”
“The Government has frameworks in place to monitor for and minimise the risk of foreign interference and to counter the threats we detect. These include legislative levers, such as the Foreign Interference (Countermeasures) Act and Internal Security Act. For operational reasons, the Government does not disclose details or statistics. The ultimate line of defence against foreign interference, however, must be an aware and discerning populace, as the Member mentioned. To this end, the Government has embarked on information literacy campaigns and public education. These include, the National Library Board's S.U.R.E 2.0 campaign, which stands for Source, Understand, Research and Evaluate. The campaign aims to impart critical skills to help Singaporeans better assess the reliability of information. The Government also regularly conducts briefings, dialogues and workshops to raise awareness on foreign interference. Audiences at these outreach efforts include public servants, full-time National Servicemen and students. The Ministry of Home Affairs will continue to work with agencies to engage the public about the threat posed by foreign interference.”
“All Auxiliary Police Officers (APOs), regardless of nationality, must meet the physical, educational and probity requirements set by the Singapore Police Force. This includes passing the APO Basic Course and the Individual Physical Proficiency Test. The Auxiliary Police Forces (APFs) have rolled out various initiatives to facilitate foreign APOs' understanding and appreciation of our socio-cultural norms and sensitivities and laws. This includes briefings, local tours, regular engagements and appointing cultural liaison officers to support the APOs. Owners of premises where the APOs are deployed, may provide further guidance to them. The APFs have been stepping up efforts to try to attract more Singaporeans to the profession, through higher competitive salaries, higher sign-on and retention bonuses and enhanced career progression. But as Members know, it is challenging to get Singaporeans, because of shortage and opportunities available in many other areas. Nevertheless, we will continue working with the APFs to try and hire more Singaporeans.”
“The reported dissolution of the terrorist group, Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), is a significant development and a major success for Indonesia’s counter-terrorism efforts. The longer-term impact, however, remains to be seen. There may be factions within the JI who disagree with the dissolution and are still committed to armed jihad. While there is currently no specific information on this, the JI’s history may be instructive. JI splinter cells had reportedly been responsible for several major attacks in the past in Indonesia, such as the bombings in Bali and Jakarta in the 2000s. Our security agencies will continue to monitor the JI network closely. They have forged strong partnerships with their foreign counterparts and maintain regular intelligence exchanges. The terrorism threat to Singapore remains high. While there is currently no intelligence of an ongoing plot or imminent attack against Singapore, we know we continue to be viewed as an attractive target by terrorists and radicalised elements. Our security measures are, therefore, regularly reviewed and enhanced. On their part, members of the public should remain vigilant and report any suspicious persons or activities to the authorities and help keep Singapore safe and secure.”
“As replied to two similar Parliamentary Questions in the April 2024 Sittings, the Police have not been tracking the number of such cases. While we have received some reports, the number is not high.”
“On average, the Singapore Prison Service (SPS) takes five working days to process hardcopy correspondences from lawyers, well within the service standard of ten working days. SPS facilitates urgent requests on a best effort basis. The average processing time for incoming e-letters is two days. The system was designed for families and friends to correspond with inmates, but SPS is considering whether enhancements can be made to also offer this as a mode of communication between lawyers and their inmate clients.”
“Crime prevention talks have therefore been organised for secondary and post-secondary students, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.”
“We have indeed observed an increase in the number of persons acting as money mules over the past two years. The Police investigated more than 7,800 persons in 2022 and more than 9,600 persons in 2023 for money mule offences. The Police do not track the age or nationality of money mules. The authorities have adopted a multi-pronged approach to try to arrest this rising trend. Legislative amendments to the Corruption, Drug Trafficking and Other Serious Crimes (Confiscation of Benefits) Act 1992 (CDSA) and the Computer Misuse Act 1993 (CMA) were passed in May 2023 and operationalised in February 2024, to allow the Police to take firmer enforcement action against money mules and those who allow others to use their Singpass for criminal activities. The Police have intensified public education. Public education materials, available in the four official languages, include scenario-based examples to illustrate what would constitute criminal offences under the amended CDSA and CMA. Media advertising has been used to boost public awareness through online platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, as well as out-of-home media such as HDB’s Digital Display Panels, MRT station platform doors, bus stop shelter ads, and taxi and bus wraps. The Police and the Monetary Authority of Singapore have also worked with the banks on public education. For instance, the advisory that is provided to customers when they open a new bank account has been updated to include the new offences. These messages are also disseminated via electronic direct mailers and on Automated Teller Machines. The Police have also stepped up efforts to raise awareness among youths on the consequences of being a money mule, as we have observed that a good number of money mules are youths.”
“There have been no cases of non-Singapore Citizens residing in Singapore who have been investigated or charged with the offence under section 125 of the Penal Code since January 2023.”