Mark Chay
Singapore
“Thank you, Mdm Deputy Speaker. I recognise the hon Member's comments and I recognise that there was a fancy chart with GDP, but we cannot look at athlete performance juxtaposed to GDP alone. There are many different factors and, if you ask me, high performance takes time.”
“Yes, the Leader of the Opposition. Regarding our silat athletes and swimmers, I just want to clarify that for the silat athlete, whether he is aware that the drink-driving incident actually happened on 27 November 2022 and the silat competition at the SEA Games actually happened on 18 May 2023.”
“I would like to thank the hon Member for his comments. Yes, I do think that there is room for improvement and there is definitely no perfect system. I am paraphrasing from yesterday.”
“I thank Mr Leon Perera for his comments in his speech. I have just one clarification on the support for athletes who are not in popular sports. He cited bowling as well as billiards, with Peter Gilchrist, Aloysius Yapp, Shayna Ng as well as Cherie Tan. They are all spexScholarship holders.”
“Thank you, Mdm Deputy Speaker. I thank the Leader of the Opposition for his question and clarifications. Again, I think sports is a continuing journey. I do not speak on behalf of SNOC, but I think the door is not closed. Again, these are decisions made by SNOC and not by myself.”
“Yes, of course. When it comes to sports, you cannot just look at the socio-economic background of a country specifically. You have to look at it as a whole. I think that is the question that I had for Assoc Prof Jamus Lim, whether he considered it as a whole, not just looking at our economic status in the region.”
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“Thank you, Mdm Deputy Speaker. I thank the Leader of the Opposition for his question and clarifications. Again, I think sports is a continuing journey. I do not speak on behalf of SNOC, but I think the door is not closed. Again, these are decisions made by SNOC and not by myself. I think if Rui Yong is truly sorry and he really wants to move forward and wants to be a great ambassador for sports, the door is probably not closed.”
“Moreover, sports provide powerful role models for our young people, inspiring them to pursue their passions and believe in themselves. They show us that with hard work, dedication and perseverance, we can achieve great things and make a positive impact on the world around us. Finally, sports have the power to bring people together, promote unity and understanding across cultures and national boundaries. They provide a common ground where people can connect and share in the joy of competition and achievement, fostering friendship and goodwill amongst individuals and nations alike. Through sports, Singaporeans can push ourselves to new levels of achievement and inspire others to do the same, building a brighter future for us and generations to come. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the athletes, the volunteers, coaches, administrators and scientists for their tireless work that they do to help our future sports stars achieve their dreams and put Singapore on the map of sports. Mdm Deputy Speaker, as I am the last Nominated Member of Parliament (NMP) to speak in the last session of our term, if I may, I would, on behalf of the NMPs – Ms Janet Ang, Dr Tan Yia Swam, Dr Shahira Abdullah, Prof Hoon Hian Teck, Prof Koh Lian Pin, Mr Cheng Hsing Yao, Mr Raj Joshua Thomas and Mr Abdul Samad – to thank everyone – all the hon Members here, the staff in Parliament, everyone here, for this incredible opportunity and journey. Faster, higher, stronger, together. [Applause.]”
“What is even more encouraging is that MINDEF has started to engage directly with NSAs through MCCY. In November 2022, MINDEF met up with the NSAs to talk about NS and its schemes to support our sportsmen. I believe these schemes are fair and our athletes have been very receptive to the flexibility given to them to train, prepare and compete. Three, taking competitive sports beyond school years. I spoke at the Committee of Supply (COS) about how Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) should play a part in teaching students how to work and exercise. I would like to encourage SportSG to look at competitive sports as a lifelong journey – encourage Silver Leagues and masters competitions, give people a reason to stay active other than for health benefits. Lastly, I would like to acknowledge the hon Member Gerald Giam's comments about parents and how important a part they play in a child's sporting journey. As a parent of a young child myself, I hope to be a sporting parent like Mr Giam. We cannot overstate the importance of parents in Singapore's sporting success. In conclusion, sports are important not only for individuals who participate in them but also for society as a whole. At the highest level of competition, sports inspire us with the incredible feats of athleticism and determination that are possible when we push ourselves to our limits. Beyond the spectacle of competition, sports promote discipline, dedication and perseverance. Athletes who train and compete at that level, learn to set goals, work hard and overcome adversity. They develop their skills and abilities to reach new heights of achievements, showing us what is possible when we apply ourselves to a challenge.”
“Hand on heart, Singapore has a good ecosystem which balances Government, non-government and private sector needs. There is no perfect system in the world, but this is a system that works in Singapore for Singapore. I am excited by the amendments to the Motion that we will continue to not only refine it for our needs and the changing requirements but also to have a commitment from this House that we will commit to realising our ambitions for high-performance sports over the coming decade. I am thrilled to support these amendments to the Motion. I would like to raise three key issues and I agree with hon Member Leon Perera that we can improve. I have the following suggestions – so, please bear with me. One, access to facilities. Many NSAs and clubs require facilities around programmes. I would like to encourage ActiveSG, together with MOE schools, to unlock their facilities to enable NSAs and the public to run their programmes there. Two, National Service. I would be the first to say that I have never swum faster than I did after National Service (NS), not because I was not allowed the time to train but because I sustained a career-ending injury right before enlistment. I actually went to Central Manpower Base (CMPB) and enlisted, on crutches. And I would like to acknowledge hon Sylvia Lim's suggestions about post-career injuries and how we can better support our athletes. I think this goes a long way to show appreciation for our athletes who have sacrificed so much. I believe that NS is essential and every male Singaporean has to do it. The question is "when". To be fair, the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) has allowed short-term and long-term deferments to allow national athletes to pursue their athletic goals before enlisting.”
“In fact, Singapore Aquatics is already identifying athletes and preparing these athletes for 2029. Because of this planning required by SportSG, NSAs, like Singapore Aquatics, can see to their continued success. At the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia, Singapore Aquatics returned with 23 gold, 16 silver and 12 bronze medals. Therefore, I would like to join Members Assoc Prof Jamus Lim and Mr Muhamad Faisal Abdul Manap in their Motion to celebrate the achievements of our athletes at the 32nd Southeast Asian Games and the 12th ASEAN Para Games in Cambodia. Well done, Team Singapore! As mentioned earlier, I would like to say that the NSAs, with Government and non-Government agencies, are consistently evaluating the systems and have clear, reliable, reasonable goals many years in advance. And I welcome the hon Member Mr Darryl David's amendments "That this House celebrates the accomplishments of our athletes and para-athletes, including at the 32nd Southeast Asian Games and the 12th ASEAN Para Games in Cambodia, and calls on the Government to continue its thorough evaluation of the areas of improvement in Singapore's sporting ecosystem, and commit to realising our goals in sports over the coming decade." Deputy Speaker, I have had a very exciting sporting journey. In 2000, at the age of 18, I represented Singapore at the Sydney Olympic Games. That year, I was ranked first in Asia in the 200-metre freestyle. I have been the CEO of an NSA and currently the President of one. I have had the good fortune of being a world champion coach. I was on SNOC's exco and I am serving in various capacities in international sporting organisations. I have seen and experienced various systems and models internationally.”
“I had earlier clarified with the hon Leader of the Opposition that Mr Soh can continue to represent Singapore at the Singapore Athletics' meets. On the non-selection of the Asian Games, SNOC had given Mr Soh a second chance to compete at the SEA Games in Cambodia after the Appeals Committee considered Singapore Athletics' nomination of Mr Soh. The Appeals Committee was satisfied and sent Mr Soh to the 2023 SEA Games. Mr Soh signed the Letter of Undertaking; and in spite of that, he made disparaging comments on social media after the SEA Games. I would like to ask the hon Member why he would continue to support the nomination of this athlete who has been given a second chance and knowingly breaks the undertaking and commitment. On the topic of disability sports, I believe things are moving forward with the Disability Master Plan. We see more para-athletes doing well at the international level. I believe that with the ActiveSG Academies, access to disability's specific sports programmes is being implemented. I am also happy to note that private sports clubs like ART Aquatics and Pin Xiu's Apex Swim Club are providing swimming programmes for children with special needs. High-performance sports take up the most resources at NSAs and NSAs work closely with SSI to plan and implement policies for its athletes. As some hon Members, such as Ms Poh Li San and Mdm Deputy Speaker Jessica Tan, who are Presidents of NSAs would know, SportSG looks at annual grant funding in periods of three to five years. Although the funding is assessed and disbursed annually, NSAs need to take a long-term view on athlete development. Key sports are also included in the 2024, 2028 meetings where NSAs work together with Sport SG to look at accomplishments at the world and Olympic levels.”
“For the top athletes who have the potential to do well on the global stage, we have the spexScholarships which give adequate financial support for our athletes to achieve and, as our athletes continue to improve and more frequently achieve global standards and results, we do need to upskill our administrators and scientists in order to meet the requirements, demands and complexity of having a world-class team, which is why I also believe that we should not only support our athletes but the teams which work with them as well. As Members know, I was a coach of our World and Paralympic Champion Yip Pin Xiu. Together, we achieved four world championship titles, two para golds and seven world records. A large part of our success was because she is, of course, a phenomenal athlete and has a great ethic. But, more importantly, I was able to relate – as a former athlete – and communicate to her in high-performance terms. I was also able to manage myself under high-pressure situations. Oftentimes, we talked about the athlete entourage but the coaches' entourage is also just as important. As we develop more high-performance coaches, we should also look at their mental well-being as well. Coaches are with the athletes every hour, every step of the way, every stroke. Travelling with the athletes overseas at competitions and camps, for every moment the coach is not on deck or on the track, they are thinking about the next session and how to extract the best out of their athletes. This is why I would like to ask SSI to consider supporting our coaches and administrators as well. At this juncture, I would also like to address the hon Member Mr Leong Mun Wai's comments on Soh Rui Yong's non-selection for the 2023 Asian Games.”
“This relates to the hiring and appointment of national coaches and technical directors, the training environment and sending teams to appropriate level competitions, nomination of athletes to SNOC for major games and selection of national teams to the World Championships. At this juncture, I am really happy to report that Singapore Aquatics will be sending 11 swimmers, 12 artistic swimmers, three open water swimmers and three divers to the World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka next week. All 29 athletes have qualified and are accompanied by 15 coaches and officials. In terms of support, the Singapore Sport Institute (SSI) provides funding and administrative support and sports science support to win at the world-class level. More specifically, winning at the world stage today is hard. The infrastructural and programming requirements are immense. In previous speeches I made in Parliament, I mentioned that the athlete entourage has grown. The demands on the athletes have also increased and the pressures remain about social media and athletes staying longer in the sport have increased the opportunity cost, which is why I believe that more needs to be done for the mental well-being of our athletes. Yes, Singapore can do it and we have proven that we can achieve, with world champions in badminton, silat, bowling and swimming.”
“Singapore Aquatics works with SwimSafer as well as members and other private sector partners to implement learn-to-swim programmes for the public. Singapore Aquatics trains the coaches, together with Coach SG and Safe Sport. This course equips coaches with the necessary pedagogical skills to enable swimmers at a young age to attain the skills in a safe and productive environment. From a regulatory perspective, Singapore Aquatics has a registry of coaches which it maintains with Coach SG, and coaches who go against the Code of Conduct may be suspended. However, this enforcement is effective primarily on coaches that practise in public pools or MOE programmes. I have raised this concern in the House. And I am working with MCCY on this and believe we are closer today than we were yesterday in regulating coaches who practise in private pools and condos and this will go a long way in ensuring that all coaches are competent and have the necessary safety skills and training to teach water safety safely in any environment. At the development level, participants take part in organised sports programmes. They learn how to train and practise and, at the more advanced levels, the athletes learn how to compete in a structured environment. Most of the activities are done at the community level with Singapore Aquatics members, Active SG and its academies. And at the pinnacle of sports, Singapore Aquatics runs high-performance programmes for its national teams in its five aquatic sports – swimming, diving, artistic swimming, open water swimming and water polo.”
“I would like to declare that I am the President of Singapore Aquatics, a Bureau member of World Aquatics, Executive Director of Global Esports Federation and a member of Olympic Council of Asia's Athletes Commission. In Singapore, there are various bodies that work together with a shared goal of promotion and development of sports locally. There is MCCY, SportSG and the NYSI, the Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC), the Ministry of Education (MOE), the Singapore Sports School, the NSAs, private clubs and academies. This is a very comprehensive list and I hope I did not miss anyone out. But SNOC and NSAs are non-government organisations that cooperate with Government and non-Government bodies to fulfil their objectives. SNOC promotes the general interest of sports in Singapore to develop and protect the Olympic movement in Singapore and to plan, select and administer any Singapore team with respect to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) or Olympic Games Federation, other organisations and the like. NSAs are concerned with the promotion of the development of the sport in Singapore. From Singapore Aquatics' perspective, our mission is to make every Singaporean a swimmer. But what does that actually mean? I can broadly segment this out into three groups. The first is sports initiation; the second is development; and the third is high performance. And as hon Member Ms Poh Li San has alluded in her speech, grassroots and community sports are important to the pipeline of our athletes. A more senior sports administrator told me – and I hold this to heart – that without our pipeline, we have no lifeline. At the sports initiation level, the aim is to introduce sports and equip participants with foundational skills in order to enjoy sports safely.”
“Mdm Deputy Speaker, sport is more than just a game. It is a powerful force that can shape a nation's identity, unite its people and even transform the world. Sporting achievements matter to a nation because they go beyond more athletic prowess. They embody the values, aspirations and spirit of the people, whether it is the roar of the stadium packed with loyal fans or the sight of the national team standing proudly on the podium. Sporting events have the power to bring a nation to life in ways that few other things can. Through sports, nations learn about teamwork, perseverance and the importance of hard work. Sporting achievements inspire young people to pursue their dreams and they serve as a reminder to all that, with dedication and commitment, anything is possible. In short, sporting achievements matter to a nation because they are a source of pride, a symbol of hope and a celebration of what we can accomplish when we come together as one. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to function in various roles and capacities in the sports industry. Sports have had a significant impact on my being and, because of this, I am thankful to join the debate on this Motion put forth by Members Assoc Prof Jamus Lim and Mr Muhamad Faisal Abdul Manap about sports. And this is my last speech as a Nominated Member of Parliament. This Motion is very wide and covers an array of complex topics and I would like to ask the hon Members in this House to indulge me as I plunge into my own sporting journey and share my experiences and thoughts on Singapore's sporting ecosystem.”
“I thank the hon Member for his comments. Definitely for sports, I say we need to take a measured approach where we are very young in this whole idea of sports administration and high performance. We started building our facilities back in 1960s and 1970s only. We were playing football on the Padang and Farrer Park. Although right now we have a lot of wonderful facilities, the programming needs to kick in. And if you look at high performance, you are looking at 2029 Southeast Asian Games or the Olympics in 2028. You are looking at the Secondary 1, Secondary 2 kids today and they take time to mature. So, we may have the facilities here, but you still need to continue to grow and groom these kids to be able to give them appropriate level competitions in order to produce results in 10 years' time. That is just my view – you cannot expect the results to come immediately, especially when you talk about high performance, dynamic sports like football. I do not claim to be an expert but when you are dealing with 11 men on one team and 11 men on the other team, a lot of things can happen. I used to be the CEO of Singapore Hockey Federation. I can tell you that team sport is extremely complex. It is not like individual sports, where it is one person on the track, seven in a single lane. You have to talk about having everyone performing in sync, in concert, together. So, that is my view.”
“Thank you, Mdm Deputy Speaker. I recognise the hon Member's comments and I recognise that there was a fancy chart with GDP, but we cannot look at athlete performance juxtaposed to GDP alone. There are many different factors and, if you ask me, high performance takes time. We celebrate the accomplishments of our aquatic fraternity; we came back with 23 gold medals at the Southeast Asian Games. But there was a time when our men's team did not have a gold medal after Ang Peng Siong, 1993, where he swam in the 50-metre freestyle. I was a Primary 5 kid, a basket kid, taking the track suits out. But that was inspiring. The next time the Singapore men's team won a gold medal at the Southeast Asian Games was 2001. High performance takes time. Singapore is an economic miracle. We have achieved so much in the past 50, 60 years. The other systems need time to catch up and I think we should view this as well in the analysis.”
“I would like to thank the hon Member for his comments. Yes, I do think that there is room for improvement and there is definitely no perfect system. I am paraphrasing from yesterday. There are a lot of wonderful systems out there, but we have got to do the right system for what works in Singapore, and we have success in the systems that we have right now. Obviously, we need to continually improve on them. Yes, Mdm Deputy Speaker, we definitely need to continue to improve on them and support our athletes. But based on the systems that we have today, they are working. I am not saying that they are perfect. There is always room for improvement and I think that is part of why we are debating this Motion today.”
“I thank Mr Leon Perera for his comments in his speech. I have just one clarification on the support for athletes who are not in popular sports. He cited bowling as well as billiards, with Peter Gilchrist, Aloysius Yapp, Shayna Ng as well as Cherie Tan. They are all spexScholarship holders. SportSG actually does give them funding and support, both in sports science as well as grants. So, I just wanted to understand whether he is aware that spexScholarship does exist for athletes in this situation.”
“Sorry, Madam, I just have one more clarification for Mr Leon Perera.”
“So, he can still compete, he can still break national records, but not at the major games. Where leniency was given, he took advantage of the situation. He broke his, I guess, commitment. And that is why he was not selected for the Asian Games.”
“Yes. I am not a member of SNOC. I just followed the proceedings quite independently. But I was on the Selection Committee in 2021 when we decided not to send Soh Rui Yong for various reasons. But I do want to say that these athletes have had their disciplinary committees, they have already served their penalties. They paid their fines. They were sorry and we have all moved on. So, SNOC does have that track record of that. I would like to also state that for the case of Soh Rui Yong, an Appeals Committee was convened, a special committee or hearing was actually held for Soh Rui Yong. He seemed very sorry for what he had done. There was also a commitment from him to — I am not going to go into the details of the commitment. Well, with respect to the commitment, he said that he would not make disparaging comments and he would abide by the Code of Conduct, that he was sorry. He went to the SEA Games – well and good, right? So, he did participate in the SEA Games. When he came back, he did a podcast and he made disparaging comments not only about SNOC, but about his teammate as well. So, that was the result of his non-selection in the Asian Games in 2023. I would also like to say that this is not uncommon in the world. I think in 2016, Kento Momota, for badminton, he was ranked No 1. He was gambling and he broke the Code of Conduct, and he was also not allowed to attend the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, even though he was ranked No 1. But I think to say that Soh Rui Yong was not allowed to compete, he can still compete, not at the major games, but at Singapore Athletics sanctioned meets. I believe that Singapore Athletics believes that he still abides by the Code of Conduct and they still select him and nominate him for these games.”
“I would like to thank the Leader of the Opposition for his response on the Soh Rui Yong case. Yes, indeed, SNOC has – and I have to declare that I am not a member of SNOC. I am just making clarifications.”
“Yes, the Leader of the Opposition. Regarding our silat athletes and swimmers, I just want to clarify that for the silat athlete, whether he is aware that the drink-driving incident actually happened on 27 November 2022 and the silat competition at the SEA Games actually happened on 18 May 2023. So, that falls outside the Code of Conduct and the Athletes' Agreement. The second is on the swimmers. I think we have clarified this in the House before that the swimmers admitted to the consumption of marijuana. There was no presence of marijuana. There was no criminal act of proceedings or infringements here. So, I just wanted to clarify that and ask if he is aware of that as well. Also, SNOC called the disciplinary committee (DC) for the swimmers. They were sanctioned. They paid a fine and this was all done before the selection for the SEA Games.”
“Yes, Mdm Deputy Speaker. Actually, I do have another clarification for the Leader of the House pertaining to his comments about —”
“Yes, of course. When it comes to sports, you cannot just look at the socio-economic background of a country specifically. You have to look at it as a whole. I think that is the question that I had for Assoc Prof Jamus Lim, whether he considered it as a whole, not just looking at our economic status in the region.”
“Mdm Deputy Speaker, I am just wondering if Assoc Prof Jamus Lim is also saying that – I just want to make a point that when it comes to sports—”
“Sorry. This is actually the first time in two-and-a-half years that I am doing this.”
“I thank the Member for his answer. I am just wondering – so, your statements mean that —”
“I thank Assoc Prof Jamus Lim. I think I might have misunderstood, but my clarification is on the rankings of the other Southeast Asia nations, as opposed to ours. And how our para-athletes have performed in terms of total medal tally.”
“Sorry. The first clarification that I have is for Assoc Prof Jamus Lim on the nature of para sports and the economic considerations versus the performance that our para-athletes have in relation to national funding. I am not an economics professor, but there are also positive externalities when it comes to having an economy that is doing well, in terms of healthcare, in terms of care for patients as well. So, I think that also speaks to the talent pool when we talk about the number of athletes representing our para-athlete contingent. Second, I work with the Invictus Foundation, which is a foundation that enables war veterans to actually compete and still represent their countries even though they have been permanently injured as para-athletes. And I think that Singapore is a relatively safe country. When it comes to the whole landscape of para-athletes, we also need to consider that because of our economic stability, safety, national defence, the pool of para-athletes is actually not very large. So, I would just like to ask Assoc Prof Jamus Lim if he has actually considered these in his comments. I have a second clarification.”
“Mdm Deputy Speaker, I have some clarifications. The first clarification I have is for Assoc Prof Jamus Lim.”
“Like what my fellow NMP Raj Joshua Thomas has mentioned, the PSP must understand that there is no perfect system and we should be striving for the best system for Singapore and Singaporeans today. Finally, any decision on abolishing GRCs needs to be carefully considered to ensure that it promotes diversity and inclusivity without reducing representation for minority communities. It is crucial to consider the potential impacts of abolishing GRCs before making any changes to the electoral system. Any changes made should promote greater diversity and inclusivity in political representation and not inadvertently lead to a reduction in representation for minorities.”
“Thirdly, another area where GRCs can be improved is in terms of diversity. The Elections Department of Singapore requires a minimum of one MP representing a minority racial community in a GRC. While GRCs aim to achieve minority representation in Parliament, there should also be diversity in terms of gender representation as well. Mandating having at least one female representative in the GRC would increase the number of female Parliamentarians, adding to the diverse discussions and debates here. Ultimately, Singapore is a democratic society, and the power rests with the voters, who should decide who represents them in Parliament. All politicians should earn their votes by convincing voters that they are the best candidates to represent Singaporeans' interests and values. This involves engaging with voters, listening to their concerns and communicating a clear vision for the future. This goes for every Member here – PAP, WP, PSP or not. At this juncture, I would like to address a view shared by hon Member Hazel Poa that GRCs have the potential to enable more popular MPs to carry less popular ones into Parliament, or coat-tailing. Whether this view has merit or not, reducing the number of representatives in a GRC could increase the power of the electorate and enable Singaporeans to hold their elected representatives accountable. It is important for Parliamentarians to be accountable to their constituents and to work hard to earn their trust and support. This means being transparent about their actions and decisions, seeking feedback from voters, and working collaboratively with their stakeholders to achieve common goals.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, I am grateful, for the opportunity to express my thoughts on the Motion presented by NCMPs Ms Hazel Poa and Mr Leong Mun Wai regarding GRCs. GRCs are unique to Singapore's electoral landscape and require political parties to field candidates from different races in the GRC team to ensure that minority representation in Parliament is upheld. This system helps to promote inter-ethnic understanding and cooperation, enabling minority candidates to be elected to Parliament and ensuring that their voices are heard at the national level. The GRC plays an important role in maintaining Singapore's social fabric and promoting racial harmony, which is critical in a diverse nation like Singapore. And this is why I cannot support the Motion. However, I would like to raise three points on GRCs. First, I would like to propose reducing the maximum number of individuals allowed in a GRC, reducing the area or boundaries covered by a GRC, and increasing the number of SMCs. This would increase the competition and diversity in elections. By reducing the size of GRCs, it is easier for Opposition parties to field credible candidates to contest every seat and could lead to greater voter choice and accountability for elected officials. Additionally, reducing the size of GRCs could help to promote greater representation of minority groups and communities in Parliament. Second, I would like to propose that more seats be made available in Parliament through SMCs. Singapore's population is increasing and the needs of Singaporeans have also increased. I would encourage the Government to continue to increase the number of Parliamentarians in Parliament to increase the diversity in the discussions here today.”
“Healthcare facilities can provide training for their staff to de-escalate tense situations and implement policies for reporting and addressing verbal abuse. In addition, public campaigns can educate people on the importance of respecting frontline workers and the consequences of their actions. In conclusion, Mr Deputy Speaker, the COVID-19 pandemic has showcased the bravery, dedication and selflessness of our medical workers and workforce at the forefront of fighting the virus. They have worked long hours under challenging conditions while risking their health to care for patients. As the pandemic begins to subside, the Government must continue to support medical workers even after the pandemic. I would like to ask the Government for healthcare workers to be provided with ongoing mental health support to deal with the psychological impact of their experiences. The pandemic has taken a toll on their mental health and well-being, and they must receive support and resources to deal with any long-term effects. Our Government should also invest in health and safety measures to protect medical workers from future pandemics. This includes providing adequate personal protective equipment, training and vaccination. Healthcare workers at the forefront of infectious disease outbreaks must be thoroughly protected against any potential hazard they may face in the future. By showing support and appreciation for medical workers after the pandemic, we create a sense of value for their role within our society. Their sacrifice and hard work deserve recognition, and this can go a long way in keeping them motivated and inspired. The Government should continue to support medical workers to build a brighter future for our healthcare industry and the patients that rely on them.”
“I hope more urban-centric sport facilities will be built to match Singapore's landscape and interests. I hope and would also like to also encourage programmes to go together with these facilities. To do that, instructors need to be trained, qualified and hired. I am happy to see that at this year's Committee of Supply (COS), the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) announced a registration of personal trainers that cover a range of activities and disciplines. But to empower this registry, the trainers need to have updated and relevant content to teach. I would encourage SportSG, Health Promotion Board (HPB), MOE and People's Association (PA) to have more discussions about the delivery of relevant, age-appropriate physical programmes that cater to a vibrant, active Singapore population. Fourth, verbal abuse towards frontliners working tirelessly to keep society functioning during this pandemic is a deplorable issue. Despite their unwavering commitment to rigorous job demands, healthcare workers, essential workers and other public-facing roles have been subject to verbal abuse, shaming and criticism. In addition to it being emotionally draining, verbal abuse can lead to mental and physical health issues and impact the professional and personal lives of those affected. Therefore, it is crucial to recognise the value of our frontliners and to show support by offering gratitude, recognising their hard work and taking ownership of our collective responsibilities. Frontliners deserve our fullest respect, support and empathy. Recognising and addressing this issue is vital in holding those responsible accountable for their actions.”
“It is also essential for athletes to understand that it is okay to prioritise their mental and physical health over their sport. Many athletes, such as May Ooi and Constance Lien, have recognised this and have become advocates for mental health awareness and self-care. By acknowledging the pressures that elite athletes face and providing the necessary support, we can help them perform at their best while maintaining their long-term physical and mental health. Therefore, I hope that more support can be put into handling these unique needs of our national teams. Third, on creating a vibrant sports and fitness culture. It is true that we often take our health for granted until an event impacts us directly. Recently, a friend passed away from a heart attack. He was still young and his tragic and sudden death ignited conversations amongst my peers about being healthy versus being fit, as well as our general education on health and well-being. It would be good if MOH and the Ministry of Education (MOE) together with SportSG teach Singaporeans at a tertiary level how to exercise when Singaporeans enter the workforce. There is a difference between training and exercising. We participate in Co-curricular activities (CCA), and sports CCAs teach you how to train – push your physical boundaries for performance, but exercise is about maintenance, mobility and lifestyle. Exercise should be a habit and a lot to do with forming habits has to do with convenience, routine and accessibility. Some Members may know that Dr Tan Yia Swam is an avid parkour practitioner. Parkour, is a sport of jumping, climbing and sliding over and through a terrain. In Singapore, this happens to be an urban terrain and I am happy to see that such projects and facilities being built in Somerset and Lakeside.”
“Currently, there are many small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and Non-Governmental Organisation (NGOs) that are in the space of enabling PwDs and it would be good to have more dialogues on continual improvement of services for PwDs and increasing access and awareness of such services for PwDs. By taking these steps, healthcare providers can ensure that PwDs have access to the same quality of healthcare services as those without disabilities. It is essential to prioritise accessible and equitable healthcare to better build a healthier and more inclusive society. I now move on to my second point, as we celebrate the triumphs of our Team Singapore athletes in Phnom Penh, we should also recognise the hard work and sacrifice our athletes and their entourage have made to bring glory to Singapore. Our elite athletes often face intense physical and mental pressures. These pressures can affect their performance, long-term physical health and overall well-being. To excel in their sport, athletes must maintain a rigorous training discipline, adhere to strict dietary requirements and overcome physical injuries. Unfortunately, these pressures can often lead to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and eating disorders. In addition to physical pressures, many athletes face significant social pressures. They may feel pressure from teammates, coaches, fans and the media. This can lead to additional mental health problems, including stress, burnout and a lack of self-confidence. Elite athletes need access to resources to help them cope with these pressures. This can include mental health support, sports psychology and mentoring from experienced athletes.”
“Teaching Singaporeans how to age is something which should be invested in as well, and a holistic approach is required, prioritising not just diagnosis and treatment but also functional ability, social interaction and psychological well-being. For this purpose, it will be good if MOH can work with SkillsFuture to increase the access and adoption of courses which are suitable for our seniors. Courses, such as arts, nutrition and digital literacy, exist. However, I believe more can be done to provide more physical and mental well-being courses. With an increasing Singaporean population of elderly individuals, the importance of gerontology cannot be understated, as it enables our silver generation to maintain independence, improve outcomes and live fulfilling lives. Mr Deputy Speaker, ensuring healthcare access for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) is also essential for promoting equitable and inclusive healthcare. Unfortunately, PwDs often face barriers to accessing healthcare, including physical, communication and attitudinal barriers. I am happy that steps have been made to make healthcare more accessible for PwDs, such as accessible facilities like wheelchair ramps, height-adjustable examination tables and accessible bathrooms. In addition to existing efforts, healthcare providers may improve communications for the visual and hearing impaired by ensuring that their staff is trained in sign language or providing communication aids such as hearing aids or visual aids. In addition to physical accessibility, healthcare providers can also improve their attitudes towards PwDs by providing education and training for their staff. They can also work towards promoting disability inclusion in healthcare policies and procedures.”
“The Government has invested significantly in public health infrastructure and subsidised medical care, making it possible for Singaporeans to receive adequate medical attention when required, regardless of their financial background. And we should continue to uphold this, not because we want to remain competitive globally, but because it is the responsible thing to do for Singaporeans. Mr Deputy Speaker, healthcare is a critical issue that concerns everyone because everyone needs access to healthcare at some point in their lives. Good health is essential for individuals to lead productive and fulfilling lives, and access to quality healthcare is crucial for maintaining good health. And because healthcare impacts everyone, I was happy to see this Motion tabled. I fully agree with the hon Members that we should take a whole-of-Government approach to healthcare. This is critical because it recognises that healthcare is not just the responsibility of the healthcare sector, but also involves many other sectors and factors. By taking a comprehensive approach, Singapore can identify and address the root causes of healthcare issues and improve health outcomes for its citizens. I want to speak on the following four points which I believe should be given more attention. First, on accessibility of healthcare services for the elderly and persons with disabilities. Singapore's population is ageing and the demand for geriatric services looks to increase. As our population ages, it becomes more disposed to chronic medical conditions, cognitive impairments, falls, frailty which can significantly impact the quality of life. This calls for specialised knowledge about the ageing process and the optimal management of multiple medical conditions, medications and physical impairments.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, thank you for this opportunity to speak on this Motion put forth by my fellow Nominated Members of Parliament (NMPs) Dr Tan Yia Swam, Dr Shahira Abdullah and Mr Abdul Samad to support healthcare beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, and call for a whole-of-Government effort for consistent and sustainable support. Sir, I stand in support of this Motion. I would like to start by extending my heartfelt gratitude to the healthcare professionals in Singapore, who have shown extraordinary dedication and selflessness in their efforts to care for patients amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the tremendous increase in demand for medical services, they have continued to provide exceptional care with professionalism and empathy. We are truly indebted to our healthcare workers and administrators for their tireless efforts throughout this challenging period. Your courage and resilience have made a tremendous impact in our fight against the pandemic, and I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your incredible work. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Singapore Government provided the healthcare workers with vital support in the form of financial assistance, resources and training to help them manage their increasing demands while treating COVID-19 patients. The contributions of our healthcare professionals should not, however, only just be recognised during times of crisis. We should still recognise their invaluable contributions moving forward, as we work towards living in a world with COVID-19, post-COVID-19. It is easy to overlook the exceptional healthcare system in Singapore and fail to appreciate the dedication and hard work that go into providing top-notch healthcare services across the country.”
“With that, Speaker, I support this Motion put up by the Deputy Prime Minister and the Finance Minister that this House expresses gratitude to all in Singapore who contributed to the nation's fight against COVID-19, reaffirms the Government's effort to learn from the experiences of the last three years and to that end, endorses Paper Cmd 22 of 2023 on "Singapore's Response to COVID-19: Lessons for the Next Pandemic".”
“Despite the daunting challenges brought on by COVID-19, Singaporeans have embraced the circuit breaker and other SMMs with courage, resilience and a collective sense of responsibility. From reducing foreign worker density to closing schools and workplaces, citizens across all sectors have come together to prioritise safety for their fellow countrymen and women. Singaporeans' strength and resilience are remarkable, proving that unity can produce tremendous positive change even amidst a crisis, that people from all walks of life can come together and contribute to the fight against this global crisis. In such times, it is an incredible reminder of what we can do – we are united, SG United in solidarity. The lessons learned from this pandemic will help prepare our nation for any crisis in the future. With this knowledge, determination, tenacity and hope for brighter days, Singaporeans are ready to face whatever comes next. And to that, I say, "Majulah Singapura!" Sir, I would like to commend Opposition Leader Pritam Singh's comments yesterday that the Workers' Party would support and not undermine national efforts in times of crisis. This is deeply encouraging and underscores our responsibility as Parliamentarians, to work together for Singapore and Singaporeans. Sir, at this juncture, I would also like to offer my sincere gratitude to our frontliners, our healthcare professionals and public servants for their courage and devotion over the past three years. They volunteered themselves to be on the frontlines, while everyone else stayed in the safety of their homes. They persevered through these trying times to save as many lives as possible. They put their own safety at risk to protect us and fought tirelessly, going above and beyond what was required of them.”
“National tennis player, Shaheed Alam, created "Project Love", which provided meals for migrant workers during Hari Raya through fundraising efforts. Our Silat athletes, Sheik Ferdous, Sheik Farhan and Nurul Suhaila, started an initiative called "Sayang Sayang Fund". "HopeFull" is a project spearheaded by golfer Jen Goh that provides resource kits for children and youths from disadvantaged backgrounds. Members of the sporting community took part in monthly engagements with beneficiaries, including virtual interaction sessions and delivery of kits. They also organised fundraising drives as well as packing and distributing food/care packs to vulnerable groups. Also, 25 Team Singapore athletes collaborated with the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC) during the circuit breaker, to mentor kids from Crest Secondary School through their Circuit Breaker Buddy programme. And, of course, Speaker, as President of Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC) and the SNOC Athletes' Commission participated in the "You'll Never Walk Alone" by ComChest campaign, which raised funds for children at-risk, persons with disabilities, persons with mental conditions, vulnerable seniors and families in need. Indeed, when our athletes could not compete or train, I am proud that they used their platforms to show resilience in a different way, inspire Singapore and used sports as a force for greater good. Sir, Singaporeans have shown tremendous strength and resilience in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even with the profound economic disruption caused by global lockdowns, Singaporeans took rapid action to contain the virus and protect their fellow citizens.”
“However, I do believe that the industry has a significant role in Singapore's journey towards living with COVID-19. The pandemic presented the sports and fitness industry with an opportunity to redefine itself, encompassing not just events production companies but also sports academies, social sports and recreation clubs, fitness clubs, boutique gyms and freelancers. This realisation has been valuable in equipping the industry for success moving forward. Second, the MTF has responded proactively to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their work is commendable and they have consistently kept Singaporeans updated with the situation. The MTF has taken a data-driven, scientific approach to the ongoing crisis. I especially appreciate the co-chairs and members for diligently using their "head and heart" strategy to make decisions that affect us all. We are incredibly thankful for their hard work and dedication, especially during these trying times. Third, Singapore strived to ensure that vulnerable groups were supported during the COVID-19 pandemic. Numerous initiatives were put into place, with financial assistance, job retraining, counselling services and additional subsidies being provided by both the Government and NGOs. The collective effort is a testament to our society's dedication to helping those in need during difficult times. Sir, please let me share some stories of our Team Singapore athletes and their activities during COVID-19. Former national sprinter, UK Shyam and other athletes initiated a cause to donate laptops to students from lower-income families. With the help of Engineering Good and the Singapore Golf Association, more than 1,000 laptops were collected and $20,000 was raised.”
“Mr Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to join this debate on Singapore's COVID-19 response. Before I start my speech, I would like to take a moment to reflect on those who were lost to the effects of COVID-19. May those close to them find solace and the departed rest in peace. The world has undoubtedly changed in the past three years. We were forced to embrace technology, to connect and transact digitally when we physically could not. We, somehow, became familiar with the Greek alphabet. We learnt to survive on frozen chickens. And through the pandemic, Singapore faced a formidable challenge and rose to the occasion, displaying a side of the nation that is compassionate and caring for its fellow man. I would like to speak on three areas from the White Paper on Singapore's Response to COVID-19. First, on support for businesses, workers, and jobs. The JSS helped businesses address the financial challenges of COVID-19. It provided wage subsidies so employers could keep employees on the payroll and retain their jobs, even as the commercial sector took a hit. The JSS also enabled the sports and fitness industry to press pause, re-evaluate and reimagine how sports and fitness businesses should run. Through the Enterprise Innovation and Capability Development Grant, SportSG provided the sports and fitness industry with a way to incorporate innovative technology into their businesses to remain resilient during this challenging period. It was a necessary step for the industry to take. The JSS clarified which industries were considered essential and non-essential during the pandemic. It was apparent that in times of crisis, the sports and fitness industry is non-essential.”
“Thank you, Mr Chairman. I would like to thank Minister Edwin Tong, Minister of State Low Yen Ling and Minister of State Alvin Tan and Senior Parliamentary Secretary Eric Chua for their responses. I have the following clarifications. What will be the focus for the disability sports landscape? Second, with the upgrading of Toa Payoh Sports Development and Queenstown, are we able to capture some of the heritage that are a part of these precincts in the upgrading of these facilities? Third, with respect to the registration of fitness professionals, are private gyms and enterprises also impacted? With respect to this registration, how will SafeSport be part of this? The last point is on Unleash the Roar! It is great to see that some of the coaches will be going away to see some of the best practices. So, maybe some of the other sports that will also be part of this going overseas to find best practices. But also, as we look outward, we should also look inward. Perhaps some of our best sports or NSAs that have been world beaters, like in table tennis, sailing and aquatics, could also lend its part to Unleash the Roar! and help to share some of these best practices with soccer academies.”
“Therefore, I am requesting MCCY to give updates on how PwDs and the elderly feature in considerations pertaining to the construction of new sports centres and plans to restore existing ones. I am also asking MCCY to share how coaches and trainers can be better prepared to coach individuals with disabilities. Singapore Sports Hall of Fame The Singapore Sports Hall of Fame was set up to recognise and honour outstanding sports personalities who have succeeded in their respective disciplines. These sports icons are celebrated for their dedication, determination and passion for excelling and reaching the pinnacle of competitive sports. In addition, they serve as beacons of inspiration for current and future generations of athletes in Singapore. Many Hall of Famers reached the pinnacle of sports with scarce resources. Today, our athletes are better funded and resourced, and the expectations have shifted. It may be time to consider a revision of admission criteria. In addition, Singapore has also produced its fair share of sports administrators and world-class coaches and judges who have contributed globally. Would MCCY consider including coaches and administrators in the Hall of Fame? Can MCCY share its plans for the Sports Hall of Fame and how it intends to activate its inductees? In conclusion, I would like to thank MCCY, its statutory boards and agencies for inspiring Singaporeans through the arts and sports, building a confident and resilient society and making Singapore the best home for everyone.”
“Singapore is gearing up for the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics, but what plans has MCCY made to ensure that our athletes are well-prepared for qualifying events or other events such as the Southeast Asian Games, ASEAN Para Games, Asian Games and Asian Para Games this year? Additionally, mental health and resilience are essential factors in success in sports. What provisions have been made to ensure that aspiring national athletes have been given adequate emotional and psychological support? Lastly, we must recognise the critical role of National Sports Associations and Sports Scientists in continuing to nurture future generations of Olympic hopefuls. What resources is MCCY providing to these groups to allow them to do their best work? TeamSG Gives Back It cannot be gainsaid that sports can bring about positive change. It unites, empowers and motivate us. The Olympic spirit has long been associated with camaraderie, excellence and altruism. And many athletes have used their privilege and status as a platform for lasting social change. Our athletes strive to be the best on the field, on the court, in the pool, and use their platforms to do good in society. Last year at the COS, TeamSG Cares was unveiled – a project which allows present and former athletes to give back to those in need or start charitable initiatives for causes close to their hearts. I would like to ask MCCY for an assessment of how successful this initiative has been and what further initiatives MCCY is taking to promote philanthropy within our sports culture. Disability Sports Masterplan Accessing sports facilities is vital in advancing the health and well-being of society and providing an avenue for social interaction through team sports.”
“Mr Chairman, as a business owner and entrepreneur, I believe in giving back to the community. In many sport-forward countries, businesses adopt sports organisations or teams. In return, the companies increase their brand awareness and get access to athletes and coaches for their organisation and staff development. The Business and Institution of a Public Character Partnership Scheme (BIPS) was introduced in 2016 to encourage tax deductions on qualifying expenditures for businesses that give back through volunteerism and service provision. Therefore, I request that MCCY provide information on how it motivates enterprises to participate in charitable causes, such as volunteering or donating to our community and charities.”
“Chairman, established in 2018, the SG Cares Volunteer Centres has actively connected with local partners, such as schools, businesses and National Sports Associations (NSAs), to support people in need through community resources and volunteers. Therefore, I am asking MCCY to share their policies regarding enhancing our SG Cares Community Networks to create a more powerful and lasting impact.”
“First, I would like to ask MCCY to provide an update on sports facilities planned for upgrading as part of the Masterplan. Second, as our society matures, can MCCY share how it plans to make these facilities accessible for persons with disabilities (PwDs) and the elderly? And third, can MCCY share its plans to collaborate with NSAs to use the facilities for training and competition during off-peak hours? Progress and Measure of Success for Unleash The Roar”
“Therefore, it would be good to enable more communication between NSAs, SportSG, KASM and event promoters to identify critical dates when national training should be protected, for instance, the period right before a national games or competition. Two, I would like to encourage event organisers to, as far as possible, organise events after office hours or on the weekends for the very simple reason of making it easy for parents, who are their children's biggest fans, to watch their kids compete and perform. It would go a long way in growing Singapore's sporting culture. Three, Sir, I spend a lot of time at the Sports Hub. I also spent a lot of time in SportsSG. An observation I would like to share is that people enjoy going to the Sports Hub simply because it is a lovely open venue to play. However, I feel that the KASM can better beat its chest and let people know what is available. For example, how many members know they can rent a kayak from the water sports centre and go tubing on the Lazy River at Spash-N-Surf? I believe KASM's can and should do more to promote the ease of use of its facilities and it should explore collaboration with private vendors to increase the reach to the public. Instead of trying to deliver all programmes, I would encourage KASM to work with the existing tenants and NSAs to provide community programmes. Sports Facilities Masterplan As a National Sports Association President, access to facilities for development and high-performance programmes is always at the forefront of my considerations. Therefore, I am encouraged by recent announcements of new sporting projects, such as Punggol Recreational Sports Centre and Toa Payoh Integrated Development that are part of the Singapore Sports Facilities Masterplan.”