Masagos Zulkifli B M M
Singapore
“Coordination between Early Intervention (EI) centres, families and preschools is important for the continuity of support for children with developmental needs.”
“The Taxi Subsidy Scheme supports persons with disabilities (PwDs) who are unable to take public transport, by providing means-tested subsidies to offset the cost of taxi travel to school, work and employment-related training supported by SG Enable.”
“The Skills and Salary Guidelines published by the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) guides social service agencies (SSAs) to pay their employees fair and competitive remuneration and maintain the sector's attractiveness. The Guidelines are adjusted so that salaries remain competitive with comparable roles in competing markets.”
“Staff turnover rates vary across social service agencies (SSAs). An individual's decision to leave an organisation is influenced by a myriad of factors, of which pay is only one.”
“Beyond the requirement of a structured daily programme, community-based SCFA administrators have the flexibility to offer programmes and additional enrichment activities that meet the needs of their students. MSF does not track staff salaries and turnover of SCCs in general nor those that administer SCFA.”
“Male preschool educators comprised about 1% of the early childhood workforce in each of the last five years. The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) has not issued guidelines pertaining to the rules set by preschool centres specific to the conduct of male preschool educators.”
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“This is due to the strong guidance and support from our Kadis and Naib Kadis (Muslim marriage solemnisers). They undertook learning journeys to INSPIRASI Hubs (AMP and PPIS) and PPIS Vista Sakinah last year to gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by young couples and those who remarry. The lessons learnt helped our Kadi and Naib Kadi to provide proactive and effective support to couples. Dr Shahira suggested including female perspectives in the Bersamamu programme. All religious leaders, including Kadi and Naib Kadi, are trained to provide guidance that addresses the different needs of brides and grooms. Should couples require specialised support from specialists, they are referred to other relevant agencies and services such as PPIS, AMP and Temasek Foundation Project ARIF. We acknowledge that women would also like specialised support from female religious teachers for some matters that they face. We will endeavour to provide this support services for them. The delivery of the Bersamamu programme is further strengthened by the Marital First Responder Training Programme. This programme empowers members of the community to support couples with marital issues. More than 300 members from the Malay/Muslim community, comprising community and religious leaders as well as volunteers, have been trained to support couples and encourage them to seek professional help if required. Mr Faisal Manap asked how we can support individuals struggling with issues of gender identity. In matters relating to religion and morality, we should refer to the Mufti and our asatizah. They have guided us to extend our kindness to one another, including to these individuals.”
“This sense of collective responsibility drives us to be contributing members of the community and society. This, in turn, strengthens trust between one another. During MSF's COS Debate, I spoke about the three “S” for all families – Stability, Self-Reliance, and Social Mobility. Within the span of just one generation, many Malay/Muslim families have been able to achieve these three Ss largely because we emphasised education. This is also because of the efforts of our community leaders, who had set up MENDAKI forty years ago. They understood the importance of education in uplifting our community. Today, the education levels in our community are higher. More families have been able to achieve stability, self-reliance and social mobility. In the journey towards success, our community does not leave behind our cultural and religious values. This is because MUIS continues to develop our asatizah's talents and strengthen our religious infrastructure to nurture our character. I am proud of the success of our Malay/Muslim community, who are also actively contributing to Singapore. Let me share how we will continue building this strong sense of citizenry. First, strengthening the foundation of the family. Second, nurturing future religious and community leaders. Third, expanding the community’s contributions to the nation We are committed to building stable, strong and resilient families. Mr Zhulkarnain asked about initiatives that support the building of strong marriages and families. As the saying goes, we need to go upstream if there's an issue downstream. The Bersamamu programme led by Minister of State Faishal has helped to strengthen the relationships of more than 20,500 couples.”
“Chairman, our Malay/Muslim community has played an integral part in our nation-building. Generations of community and religious leaders toiled alongside our fellow countrymen to build Singapore. It is this spirit of citizenry that has carried us far as a society, where everyone steps forward and contributes. We strive to build a Community of Success based on "three Cs": Character, Competency and Citizenry. I shared how we strengthened our character and developed our competency in previous Committee of Supply debates. This year, I will share about the third "C", Citizenry. Citizenry comes from a sense of belonging and responsibility to Singapore – our country and its people. It is about coming together to build a better future, being confident in our abilities to make positive changes and showing care for one another. By all and for all. Regardless of race, language or religion. By being active citizens, we become a vibrant and contributing community who uplift those around us, forging a stronger Singapore. Chairman, in Malay, please. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Our theme this year is "Contributing Citizens, Stronger Nation". It reflects our roles and obligations to one another as citizens of Singapore. This theme exemplifies the spirit of the Forward Singapore movement where the Government rallies Singaporeans to come together to strengthen our social compact. A core pillar of our social compact is the role of the family. It is through the family that we learn how to take care and fulfil our obligations to one another. Hence, the family provides the foundation to nurture and develop a sincere sense of collective responsibility, one that binds us as our fellow citizens.”
“For 2023, 680 of such persons who did not qualify for ComCare and they were referred to – all of them, yes, the 680.”
“Mr Speaker, the Lee Foundation provides a festive grant during Chinese New Year to persons who do not qualify for ComCare but were referred to them by the Social Service Offices (SSOs). In 2023, they disbursed about $82,000 to about 680 of such persons. The Hong Leong Foundation and Shaw Foundation also disburse CNY festive grants annually to ComCare Long-Term beneficiaries. They averaged about $960,000 per year over the past five years.”
“Well, the Member did not put a question, but he put his opinion across again. I think he has reflected the needs of the unwed mothers – and all of us should feel the same. But we also have to reflect the needs and the reflections of what social norms are. As I mentioned just now, if social norms change, that too will change.”
“I note that the Member said the numbers are small. Does the Member want the number to be big? Because we must make a distinction between support and incentive. There is always this worry that that could happen, but more importantly, our policies must reflect the social norms and values of parenthood within marriage. If that shifts in future, certainly, we will move with it.”
“I can understand how Mr Louis Ng feel for single unwed mothers. I think Members in this House feel the same. But policies are implemented, fit for purpose. And even when they are not used up for its intended purpose, policies cannot be reduced, reused or recycled. They must be implemented for public accountability, for the purpose it was intended. Therefore, if they need support like the areas which the Member has mentioned, our Social Services Offices (SSOs) provide psychological support and social support. Please seek them. If they do not know where to go, I hope Members can point them to where these are.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, while single unwed parents do not qualify for the Baby Bonus Cash Gift, Parenthood Tax Rebate and Working Mother’s Child Relief, we extend Government benefits that support the growth and development of their children. These include subsidies for education, healthcare, childcare and infant care, the foreign domestic worker levy concession and the Child Development Account. HDB also assesses their requests for housing holistically, based on their individual circumstances. It is not an issue of cost, let alone whether we will study it, but that each of these policies reflect prevailing societal norms and values, that of parenthood within marriage. In addition, those in need of assistance can approach their nearest Social Service Office.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, my response will also cover the Parliamentary Question (PQ) for oral answer also filed by Mr Louis Ng1 which is scheduled for Sitting on or after 7 March. I would invite the Member to seek clarifications if need be. If the question has been addressed, it may not be necessary to proceed with the question for future Sittings.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, I beg to report that the Committee of Supply has made progress on the Estimates of Expenditure for the Financial Year 2023/2024 and ask leave to sit again on Monday 6 March 2023.”
“Chairman, may I seek your consent to move "That progress be reported now and leave be asked to sit again on Monday, 6 March 2023."”
“Thank you, Chairman. The ComCare SMTA and the Long-Term Assistance were just reviewed in August 2022. So, we raised that from $600 to $640, and have higher cash assistance for the Long-Term Assistance. But we must continue to monitor this current increase in inflation, which is not the usual one, creeping slowly, but given the circumstances that are faced by people all over the world. We will look at this and, if the need arises, we will certainly increase the support to our ComCare recipients. Secondly, the income eligibility, we will provide an update at the end of the year. But having said that, the income eligibility criteria are not hard thresholds because the SSOs can assess holistically the family, their needs, because if their basic needs cannot be met, no matter what their income is presented to be, the SSOs do have the discretion to support them. Therefore, we do have flexibility to exercise on a case-by-case basis.”
“The Government will work closely with our partners to provide stronger support for Singaporeans. To highlight their efforts, MSF has dedicated 2023 as the Year of Celebrating Social Service Partners. (In English): Chairman, strengthening families and sustaining social mobility for our people is a whole-of-society effort. Our SSAs, social enterprises, businesses, community groups, academia and more have been invaluable partners. In this Year of Celebrating Social Service Partners, I encourage Singaporeans to join us in applauding the contributions of our partners and encourage more partners to join hands with us. Together, we can build a Singapore Made for Families, where our strong social compact supports all families in achieving stability, self-reliance and keeps social mobility alive. [Applause.]”
“In particular, there is a need for local research that speaks to our context, taking on a family-centric approach, our unique socio-cultural environment and the cultural nuances of the diverse communities in Singapore. Chairman, allow me to continue in Malay, please. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Chairman, families are at the centre of what we do and will remain the focus of the Government’s efforts. We will strengthen support in the community as they go through the various stages in their family journey, from the point a couple contemplates marriage, to when they start a family, to raising their children and so on. The Government is committed to building a better future for all, and we will leave no one behind. But the Government cannot do this alone. We need a coordinated ecosystem of partners. Key programmes such as ComLink and KidSTART will involve community partners and help low-income families, including our Malay/Muslim families, achieve stability, self-reliance and social mobility. We have introduced several initiatives to better support Malay/Muslim families. Through Project DIAN@M3, more effective and integrated support is provided to Malay/Muslim families staying in rental flats, by connecting them to the national and community programmes for education, employment, social support and health. At the same time, we must encourage our young to dream big and to work towards those dreams. One of the ways is to provide role models and positive influences. For instance, through Project Pathfinder by volunteers from the Singapore Armed Forces, students at the Institute of Technical Education College East are paired with mentors who provide guidance towards attaining resilience and equipping them with knowledge and discipline.”
“The study found that building family hardiness, which includes the family's ability to adapt and the family's sense of control over the situation, helped to bolster mothers' hope in the short-term and reduce the risk of longer-term mental health issues. Our work through ComLink family coaches and befrienders provides precisely these opportunities to build such resilience, towards the "3Ss". I hope the research will be as informative to the refinement of ComLink as Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) has been for KidSTART. The GUSTO study by researchers from the National University Health System, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, NUS and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research showed that mothers' responsiveness to their child's needs in infancy makes a difference to the child's readiness for school and academic performance. The study also demonstrated that a mothers' physical and mental well-being during pregnancy had a large impact on their child's development. This led us to focusing on reaching more mothers at the antenatal stage so that they can benefit earlier from KidSTART. To harness this spirit for a stronger collective impact, we look forward to greater collaborations with universities and academics to develop research. MSF has begun this work through the Asian Family Conference, bringing together researchers, policymakers and practitioners across the region to exchange learning points and leveraging this research to inform policies and practice. The intention is to build up a robust knowledge base of family-centric research that can inform social policy and practice in Singapore and beyond – something Ms Ng Ling Ling asked for. SSAs can both contribute to and tap on this base of knowledge as resources for their work.”
“For instance, in 2022, Mendix, a software company, gathered over 400 developers for an international hackathon on issues faced by non-profit organisations, including our SSAs. This resulted in impactful digital solutions. For example, New Hope Community Services now has an app that allows social workers to view their programme activities easily, facilitating service delivery. Another example is the Community Uplift Programme by UOL and the Pan Pacific Hotels Group. Through this, UOL and Pan Pacific tap on their resources to provide enriching experiences like rock climbing and art classes for children from ComLink families. This offers the children opportunities to bond with their families and participate in activities not easily accessible to them. But more importantly, by bringing these children and their families out of their everyday settings into venues such as hotels managed by their group, the children are exposed to a greater breadth of career choices. This broadens their outlook and inspires them to dream bigger and climb higher in life. We welcome more of such partnerships. As for the IHLs, they are where our social sector professionals acquire the knowledge and skills to work effectively. Researchers and academics also contribute invaluable insights to inform our policies and practice. For example, the research project on Identifying Positive Adaptive Pathways in Low-Income Families in Singapore conducted by the National University of Singapore (NUS) researchers informs efforts to better support families in working towards the "3Ss", particularly in times of economic hardship.”
“Furthermore, businesses possess a wealth of resources and many have sought to share this, weaving giving into their DNA. Mr Murali Pillai and Ms Janet Ang said that more could be done to build the culture of giving. We are heartened by and appreciate SBF Foundation's initiatives on this front, and in particular, as part of the Youth Connections Pilot, as Ms Janet Ang has shared. This demonstrates the strong impact that businesses can make beyond economic returns. Moving forward, we will continue to partner businesses to promote and encourage sustainable philanthropy, which looks to businesses and Singaporeans making sustained contributions, beyond episodic giving of money and goods. NCSS champions sustainable philanthropy and is working with the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre, which recently launched its Corporate Purpose Framework, to define and measure businesses' impact on social causes. 6.45 pm One example of sustainable philanthropy is the Change for Charity initiative, where businesses enable customers to donate to Community Chest conveniently when they make payments. I am glad that banks such as DBS, Maybank and UOB have joined us on this initiative and that retail brands like Eu Yan Sang are matching their customers' donations. In the coming years, we believe more businesses will come on board Change for Charity. Our hope is that more businesses and organisations will not just stop with Change for Charity but come up with creative ways to leverage their expertise. In each business and organisation is a wellspring of good that can be achieved, tapping on the business's assets, their expertise and time of its people.”
“When implemented, more than 20,000 employees, including social workers, psychologists, early intervention educators and care workers, are expected to see increases by between 4% and 15% in FY2023. I strongly encourage SSAs to adopt the guidelines to continue to attract and retain talent, and MSF and NCSS will support their efforts. Funding for MSF and NCSS-funded programmes will also be adjusted accordingly. Also working tirelessly alongside our sector professionals, are our volunteers. NCSS will be rolling out new schemes under the Community Capability Trust to help SSAs build capabilities for better volunteer management. Ms Carrie Tan has also asked about support for our SSAs in building capabilities in research and evaluation. We agree that this is important and there are existing support and initiatives in place. The Sector Evaluation Framework, launched in 2021, provides SSAs, funders and public agencies a common language and outcome metric to articulate impact. SSAs may also tap on research advisory support through NCSS' network of volunteer research consultants, and subsidised research courses and workshops offered by the Social Service Institute and universities. Chairman, beyond SSAs, there are many more who make a difference in the social sector – including businesses and the Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs). Businesses are a key touchpoint for different segments of society. At its very core, businesses provide employment – the first step to achieving stability, self-reliance and social mobility, the "3Ss". Businesses also help shape Singapore into a family-friendly and inclusive society through FWAs for caregivers and inclusive hiring practices for PwDs.”
“In recognition of our SSAs' invaluable efforts, 2023 has been dedicated as the Year of Celebrating Social Service Partners. Significant contributions by SSAs are also recognised through the annual MSF Volunteer and Partner Awards and Community Chest Awards. Behind the successful delivery of social services by the SSAs are those who provide resources, funds and manpower – the Government, philanthropists and donors, as well as volunteers. Over the years, we have witnessed donors stepping forward and have developed and strengthened mechanisms to support the social service sector in meeting emerging needs. The Tote Board Social Service Fund, for instance, supports more than 70 programmes serving over 362,000 clients, in partnership with various Government agencies. As social needs further evolve, access to generous financial support remains a key enabler of the sector. I am happy to share that the Tote Board has committed around $846 million to the Tote Board Social Service Fund for the next five years. This is the Tote Board's largest commitment since the inception of the Fund. It complements the Government's funding of about $400 million a year to support key social programmes. Beyond financial support, a strong core of passionate and competent professionals is equally crucial. As raised by Mr Seah Kian Peng and Ms Denise Phua, they need to be given due recognition and supported in their work. Hence, measures must be taken to better attract, train and retain staff. To support SSAs in this area, we have completed the review of the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) Sector Salary Guidelines, to keep pace with wage realities in the market and account for changes in job responsibilities, as well as salaries of comparable roles in competing markets.”
“He also shares information on bursary awards for their son, who is in primary school, to help them with their expenses. Mr Wong and his family are grateful to Shen Jun for his support. For families that demonstrate a strong commitment to do their part to create better conditions for their children, we want to be able to support them better – this is our approach in our new social compact. We intend to tailor sustained support to encourage them. Our aim is for them to achieve the "3Ss" quicker. We are working out the specifics and intend to share details later this year. Apart from lower-income families, families caring for children with developmental needs also need additional attention. Minister of State Sun Xueling will elaborate on our plans to increase early intervention capacity. We will also provide support for families caring for PwDs. Last year, we announced the EMP2030. Efforts are underway to progressively implement the 29 recommendations of the Masterplan. On this note, I am happy to announce the launch of the first Enabling Services Hub in Tampines West Community Centre. This follows the recommendation to provide support services to enable PwDs to live independently and well in, and with, the community. The Hub will reach out to PwDs and their caregivers in its region to understand their needs, link them to relevant support and provide onsite services such as continuous learning programmes and respite care for caregivers. Senior Parliamentary Secretary Eric Chua will elaborate on support for PwDs. Integral to our efforts to strengthen families and uplift those in need are our partners. In particular, our SSAs. Ms Joan Pereira, Mr Mohd Fahmi Aliman, Ms Ng Ling Ling and Ms Janet Ang have asked how we will recognise and continue to support these efforts.”
“These issues need to be addressed proactively, early, and in a coordinated way, preventing them from becoming entrenched. One example is KidSTART, which is targeted at children in lower-income families. Through KidSTART, parents are empowered to be confident and competent caregivers. Efforts begin at the hospital, with families given close support through home visits as the child grows older. KidSTART has supported over 6,200 children from lower-income families thus far and we have seen good results. As announced by Deputy Prime Minister Wong in the Budget, we will be scaling up KidSTART nationwide. This is a major effort to move upstream in our support for children from lower-income families. Minister of State Sun Xueling will share more on this. ComLink further ensures that children from lower-income families are provided with a good start in life and supported on a journey of progress. Introduced in 2019, it supports families with children living in rental housing by connecting them to community resources and Government services. Like the localised FFL presence that I spoke about just now in each town, ComLink depends on a contingent of volunteers working closely with officers at the SSOs. Over 2,400 volunteers have been recruited to support various ComLink efforts such as outreach, befriending and programmes. One such volunteer is Shen Jun, who has helped Mr Wong, aged 68, improve the circumstances of his family. Mr Wong was worried he would not be able to find employment, given his age. But with Shen Jun's support, Mr Wong secured a full-time job as a security officer. His family is now no longer on ComCare assistance. Shen Jun regularly visits them and shares relevant resources and information, such as HDB launch dates, knowing that Mr Wong aspires to own a flat.”
“In providing support, we put weight on their child's well-being and supporting them in their caregiving responsibilities. Hence, we extend Government benefits that support the growth and development of their children as we do to other children. These include subsidies for education, healthcare, infant care and childcare, the foreign domestic worker levy concession and the CDA. HDB also assesses their requests for housing holistically, based on their individual circumstances. The family plays an important role in caring for its loved ones even in old age. Increasingly, the LPA and ACP will be important ways that families have the assurance that they are respecting the wishes and intent of their loved ones, who may no longer be able to express their wishes when they lose their mental capacity. In response to Mr Henry Kwek, we are making progress in encouraging adoption of LPAs. More than 10,000 applications have been made online. MSF, MOH and the Public Service Division will be launching a public education campaign to promote pre-planning. Some Members have raised the issue of possible abuse of LPAs. At the same time, others have asked for the process to be simpler and cheaper. The Public Guardian will continue to be mindful of these considerations and I seek the support of Members to understand that the Public Guardian has to balance convenience and cost, with appropriate safeguards. What I have covered are broad-based efforts to strengthen families. We will also extend additional support to lower-income families, through targeted programmes. These families often face complex and interlocking challenges, which cannot be addressed by one agency or partner.”
“30 pm As families navigate various milestones, our goal is to ensure they are equipped with the necessary family and parenting skills. Mr Melvin Yong asked about the efforts of FFL, to strengthen families. FFL started with broad-based public education campaigns and resources. More recently, it intensified ground outreach in Choa Chu Kang and Yishun, by offering localised marriage, parenting and even grandparenting programmes under the FFL @ Community initiative. I am pleased to share that FFL will expand this initiative to nine towns by the end of this year and to all towns by 2025. An expected 4,000 couples and 20,000 parents will benefit from these programmes every year from 2025 onwards. There will be families that need more targeted support. Today, there are FSCs which provide integrated and multidisciplinary services to meet the diverse needs of families. We call these centres: "FAM@FSC". The services they offer include marriage preparation programmes, parenting programmes, family counselling and divorce support programmes. We have seen positive outcomes from these efforts. For example, participants of our marriage preparation programme, Prevention and Relationship Education Programme (PREP), report better communication skills with their spouse. We know that all couples aspire to have a strong relationship and a strong family. FFL and FAM@FSC are there on the ground, to provide support to them if they need it. Dr Shahira Abdullah spoke about support for single unwed mothers. Our policies reflect the value our society places on parenthood within marriage. However, we also empathise with the challenges faced by single unwed parents. There is appropriate welfare support for them too.”
“Thank you. Members may also access these materials through the MP@SGPARL app. Together with these latest measures, families are supported across all stages in life. For those starting a family, we will provide them with greater support in securing their first home. Newlyweds are supported in laying strong foundations to their marriage, such as through marriage preparation programmes and mentoring support from their Licensed Solemnisers. When couples go on to have children, they are supported in the cost of raising their children through the increase in the Baby Bonus Cash Gift and Child Development Account (CDA). Parents with children of preschool ages have access to affordable and quality preschools, with more places to be created. Families caring for PwDs have enhanced support for lifelong learning, employment opportunities, as well as caregiving support. We also support our seniors in ageing well. Seniors are supported through preventive health, active ageing programmes and care services. We are building towards a society that empowers seniors to live healthier lives, be socially engaged and contribute meaningfully. The top-up to the ComCare Endowment Fund provides more resourcing and certainty for MSF in supporting lower-income families through ComCare, amid high inflation. ComLink has also been rolled out to proactively support families with children in rental homes. Our efforts continue, as we strive to make Singapore a place where families thrive. Last year, during the Year of Celebrating SG Families, MSF launched the Singapore Made for Families 2025 Plan, a three-year plan that outlines how the Government, community partners, businesses and individuals can, together, create a Singapore where all families are valued and supported. 6.”
“A supportive family nurtures children to become compassionate members of society, able to pursue their aspirations, achieve social mobility for their family and give back to society. A strong nation is built on strong families. The Government has invested greatly in families to support them across all stages. With your permission, Chairman, may I ask the Clerks to distribute a handout detailing the family-related announcements during this Budget, for Members' reference.”
“This is Singapore's unique approach to addressing inequality – we keep social mobility alive by enabling self-reliance and building stability. We have seen elsewhere how rising social inequality leads to the stratification of society, growing distrust for the Government and increasing disunity amongst the people. To remain a united people, Singapore must do all we can to avoid walking this same path. We have proven to ourselves, during the COVID-19 pandemic that we are a people who will help one another through difficult times. As we look ahead, we must build our social capital and strengthen our social compact as Mr Seah Kian Peng and Ms Ng Ling Ling have also suggested. But as they also suggested, this means it is not just what the Government can do. It is also what individuals, families and the community can do together, so that together, we strengthen families and sustain social mobility. The "how" is as important as the "what". In seeking a refreshed social compact through the ForwardSG exercise, we have heard many speak of their desire to help less fortunate Singaporeans nurture and build better lives, to forge an inclusive and caring Singapore. We will build on these aspirations of Singaporeans and focus their energies in three very important areas: firstly, building strong families and uplifting families that require additional support; secondly, strengthening the social service sector to deliver services that meet the needs of families; and thirdly, weaving an extensive tapestry of support around families by expanding partnerships across society in a renewed social compact. [Deputy Speaker (Mr Christopher de Souza) in the Chair] Chairman, families are the bedrock of our society, where values are transmitted and our characters are shaped.”
“Chairman, I thank Members for their suggestions. The vision to strengthen families and sustain social mobility is a common one we all share. We are starting on a strong foundation. Singapore has invested in the education and well-being of its people. Singaporeans enjoy stable employment, own homes, have the means to start families and lead meaningful lives. This is a hope that we want to keep alive as a society. At MSF, we also want all families to enjoy such resilience and confidence in their future. In short, we want all families to achieve the "3Ss": stability, self-reliance and social mobility. Stability, where families are strong and have the means to weather the ups and downs in life. When families face challenges, they weather them because of mutual support from their children, siblings, parents and the extended family. Those who face severe challenges can also look to support from the Government. Self-reliance, where families have a strong sense of ownership. Our society is strong because many Singaporeans continue to have this belief. MSF and our partners see many families who receive help and are motivated not only to do better for themselves and their children, but to actually give back and uplift others. Social mobility, where families will always have opportunities to progress and better their circumstances, and where they can aspire for their children to have a better and brighter future. Sustaining social mobility across generations is the most important assurance we can offer to families in Singapore. The "3Ss" – stability, self-reliance and social mobility – is MSF's hope for all families, but especially for lower-income families.”
“Currently, there are 60 nursing homes already providing the temporary respite care. Of course, we want to do more. We have to expand the capabilities as well as capacities and, where they are available. We will make it available, and we are working with AIC to do so.”
“Thank you to the Member for the clarification question. It is pegged to the median income based on DOS' statistics, but it does not include the Central Provident Fund (CPF) contribution of the employer. [Please refer to "Clarification by Second Minister for Health", Official Report, 3 March 2023, Vol 95, Issue 91, Correction By Written Statement section.]”
“Probation is a community rehabilitation order that requires an offender below 16 years old to be supervised by a Probation Officer for a period of between six months and three years. From 2018 to 2022, the median length of probation orders was 21 months, and the top three offences were theft, voluntarily causing hurt and housebreaking. Over the same period, around 9.5%, or seven of youth probationers, reoffended while on probation and had their orders revoked.”
“MSF Youth Homes (Singapore Boys' Home and Singapore Girls' Home) serve as a remand home and a place of detention for children and young persons (CYPs). On average, about 28% of the newly admitted CYPs between 2018 and 2022 lived in public rental flats.”
“The number of citizen mothers with non-marital births decreased from 621 in 2019 to 543 in 2021 for mothers below 35 years old, and from 136 to 107 for those aged 36 and older. The number of such mothers aged 35 was about 20 in both 2019 and 2021, while the data for 2022 is not yet available.”
“I do not have specific answers to those points raised. Generally speaking, we look at the sector very carefully, all the time, and we look at work environment. It is not just about the workload. We look at the organisation, the environment in which they work in. We look at the kind of challenges they meet and in fact, whether the challenges are those that they enjoy overcoming. One of the areas we always look at is how to uplift the management quality so that when you come to work, every Monday is a Friday and every Friday is a Monday. It is that kind of place where you want to come to work and really feel sad that it is a Friday and you are going for your weekend. We are not there yet, but I can say that some of the FSCs are doing far better than others and we really want to uplift their quality of work. Certainly, the load with which our social workers are facing is one of the many factors that we are looking at.”
“Mr Speaker, in Financial Year (FY) 2021, the average and median social worker to caseload ratios at Family Service Centres (FSCs) were 1:19 and 1:20 respectively.”
“The authorities will share its findings with the public after the Police investigations are completed. The Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS) urges the community to seek religious guidance only from credible sources and asatizahs registered under the Asatizah Recognition Scheme. At the same time, MUIS will continue to provide religious guidance and advice to the community on the dangers of deviant teachings.”
“From 2018 to 2020, about 40% of eligible fathers took the full two weeks of Government-Paid Paternity Leave (GPPL) in each year. This amounted to around 13,000 fathers in 2018 and 2019, and over 12,000 fathers in 2020. Data for 2021 and 2022 are not available as parents have up to one year after their Singaporean child’s birth to consume the leave, and employers or self-employed persons have three months after that to submit the claims. The statistics exclude eligible fathers who may have consumed the leave but did not submit any claims. From 2018 to 2020, the median GPPL taken by eligible fathers increased from 0.8 weeks to 1.2 weeks. It is more meaningful to report in weeks rather than in days, as each individual may have a different number of working days in a week.”
“The Workgroup for the Review of the Maintenance of Parents Act, led by Member of Parliament Seah Kian Peng with eight other Members of Parliament as members, was formed in October 2021. Mr Seah Kian Peng has indicated that, having completed its second round of public consultations in December 2022, the Workgroup is working towards introducing the amendment Bill this year.”
“Additional support is already available for the second or third child in some larger families. While the Basic Subsidy is constant irrespective of birth order, families with a working mother and monthly household income of $12,000 and below are also eligible for the means-tested Additional Subsidy. To support larger families, including those with more children, families with five or more members (including three or more dependants) can have their income assessed on a per capita basis so that they can enjoy higher Additional Subsidy amounts for each child. Parents can also use their Child Development Account (CDA) funds to defray preschool fees. Savings deposited by parents into the CDA are matched dollar-for-dollar by the Government, up to a cap, with higher co-matching caps for the second and third child.”
“In recent years, the Government has enhanced preschool affordability in various ways. In 2020, we raised the household income ceiling for means-tested Additional Subsidies from $7,500 to $12,000 and increased the quantum of Additional Subsidy across all eligible income tiers. In addition, we keep fees at Government-supported preschools affordable by imposing fee caps on Anchor Operators (AOPs) and Partner Operators (POPs). In January 2023, monthly fee caps for full-day childcare at AOP and POP centres were lowered by $40 to $680 and $720 respectively. This is more effective than increasing the Basic Subsidy.”
“Only vehicles with valid labels under the Car Park Label Scheme (CPLS) are allowed to park in accessible parking lots. The number of summonses issued for the misuse of accessible lots in public car parks was 1,628 in 2018, 1,544 in 2019, 2,108 in 2020, 2,418 in 2021 and 1,821 in 2022. We seek other drivers’ support not to misuse accessible lots, so those with valid car park labels are able to use them. We will continue our public information efforts to deter misuse. Information on who is eligible to park in accessible parking lots can be found on signages near accessible lots and on SG Enable's Enabling Guide website. In addition, a hotline number to report illegal parking is also provided on the CPLS labels and on the Enabling Guide website.”
“Over the past five years from 2018 to 2022, schools referred about 2,200 cases to the Enhanced STEP-UP programme, or an average of 450 cases per year. Parental consent is required before any case is referred to the ESU programme.”
“The National Anti-Violence and Sexual Harassment Helpline (NAVH) was launched in February 2021. It received about 2,200 and 2,400 enquiries related to abuse or neglect of children in 2021 and 2022 respectively. Of these enquiries received by the NAVH, 17%, 10% and 23% were referred to MSF’s Child Protective Service, Family Service Centres and other social and community agencies (for example, Protection Specialist Centres, schools, healthcare providers) respectively. Of the remaining enquiries, they were already receiving existing support services or were assessed to have no abuse or neglect concerns. Eight percent of the enquiries received by NAVH on child abuse or neglect were reported to the Police concurrently.”
“The Office of the Public Guardian received more than 10,600 applications since the launch of OPG Online (OPGO) on 14 November 2022, up to 31 January 2023. This is 45% higher when compared to a similar period one year ago. Of these, eight out of 10 were made online. The hard copy applications received during this period were LPA applications that were certified before the launch of OPGO, but such applications are expected to decline.”
“To ensure Early Childhood (EC) educators have the requisite professional, academic and language requirements to teach and care for our preschoolers, the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) establishes minimum educational qualifications. ECDA also approves local EC training courses that meet our standards. For foreign qualifications, ECDA will assess the coverage and relevance of the course modules to ensure they meet our certification requirements. Those who fully meet ECDA’s requirements will be certified without the need for additional training. However, those who do not may be required to undertake stipulated training before they can be certified as EC educators.”
“The Community Guardian App was discontinued in December 2022. The usage since its launch was low. Instead, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) has launched an online text-based channel, accessible via MSF’s website and https://go.gov.sg/navh, as an additional mode of reporting for the National Anti-Violence and Sexual Harassment Helpline to make it easier for persons to report violence and seek help early.”
“The number of investigations carried out by MSF's Child Protective Service (CPS) in the last five years is available on the MSF website. About 90% of these cases investigated by CPS involved child abuse or neglect by their parents or caregivers. The rest involved abuse by siblings or other relatives.”
“Children and young persons (CYPs) in need of care or protection may be referred by MSF or ordered by the Youth Court to reside in a place of safety. The two juvenile homes – Singapore Boys' Home and Singapore Girls' Home – are also places of safety. Table 1 below provides the percentage of CYPs who lived in public rental flats based on the year of their admission to places of safety.”
“HDB and SG Enable launched the Inclusive Business Programme (IBP) in 2019 to support businesses who commit to having persons with disabilities make up at least 20% of their hired workforce, through the direct allocation of HDB shop spaces. In addition, Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) businesses supported under the IBP enjoy a 20% rental discount, for their first three years of tenancy. Since 2019, two businesses have applied for the IBP and both businesses were successful in their applications. The Government also supports the employment and creation of persons with disabilities through a suite of employment measures. This includes job placement and job support services and grants under the Open Door Programme, as well as wage support through the Enabling Employment Credit. MSF is also developing Enabling Business Hubs (EBH), to better enhance employment support and opportunities at the regional level, closer to where persons with disabilities and caregivers live. EBHs will offer employment training, employer engagement as well as on and offsite employment for persons with disability.”
“The Certificate Issuer plays the important role of ensuring that no undue pressure is used to induce the donor to create the Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), and that the donor understands the purpose of the LPA and the scope of authority conferred under it. MSF does not prescribe the fees charged, nor do we collect exhaustive data on such fees. However, to guide the public, MSF publishes the fees of the frequently-visited Certificate Issuers. As of July 2022, the fees of the top 10 most-frequented accredited medical practitioners range from $25 to $58, that for the top 10 most-frequented lawyers range from $80 to $300, and that for the top 10 most-frequented psychiatrists range from $145 to $442. For financially needy persons, there are not-for-profit organisations, such as Potter’s Place Community Services Society and Mount Alvernia Outreach Medical Clinic @ Enabling Village, that provide low-cost or even free services. I would like to address the concern that Certificate Issuers may overcharge. Firstly, with the wide range of Certificate Issuers and fees, donors can choose the option that best meets their needs. Each donor’s situation and mental state is different. It is also possible for an LPA to be subsequently challenged by other parties. Hence, higher fees may reflect the higher care and professional judgement required of the Certificate Issuer in certain cases. Finally, I would echo the sentiment of a member of public, who had written to The Straits Times Forum Page pointing out that the cost of making an LPA is worth the while because obtaining deputyship in the absence of an LPA is many times more expensive and tedious.”