Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap
Singapore
“Sir, I believe that the Minister did not answer quite a number of my questions. But due to time factors, I will submit a Parliamentary Question. Nonetheless, I have two clarifications. One, on the full-time madrasahs.”
“Is MOH looking into more aggressively hiring junior doctors, especially those that have left the public healthcare system? How do they intend to do so? Will it include increasing doctor's salaries to better compete with the private sectors and, if so, how much?”
“Sir, actually, I have written to SFA and they have actually replied to me recently. I just want to get a better clarification on the issues. What happened was that there is this issue that has been going on for about 10 years where the bakery located in the same block, a four-storey HDB block, has been emanating noise, heat and pungent sm…”
“What are SFA's requirements for bakeries to operate in a HDB residential block emitting the noise and heat levels resulting from their daily operations?”
“Sir, earlier in my speech, I have sought two clarifications on my cuts pertaining to ventilation systems for bakeries in order to better manage the disamenities caused by bakeries located in the HDB blocks. I really have not received a reply on this from the Ministry.”
“Sir, on the contrary, the implication of not approving LTVP+ applications for both these groups is that their lives will become more challenging and it will further complicate their lives. I would like to request that ICA exercise greater flexibility to applicants who are facing the two situations that I mentioned.”
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“Travel costs should and must be the least of their worries, and I am of the view that the Government can do more in this aspect and seriously consider extending the Taxi Subsidy Scheme to the Pioneer Generation, in particular, those seniors who are currently covered by MediFund. Page: 88 Many of our Pioneer Generation live on a tight monthly budget. More often than not, they have just enough monies for the month. Many in this House would know that many of our seniors get by every month on their meagre income, children's contributions, minimal savings, monthly CPF payouts or welfare financial assistance. Thus, we must be continually mindful that they are especially price-sensitive to any small increase in the cost of living, in particular, their food and grocery expenses. A dollar increase in their monthly food and grocery expenses hits them more adversely than it does any Member in this House. Many have exercised prudence in their purchase of groceries but still they are unable to cope with the inflationary price pressures. Thus, I would like to recommend that the Government initiate a scheme to encourage supermarket chains or neighbourhood merchant associations to offer regular discounts to elderly patrons on certain days of the week. My understanding is that, at present, NTUC FairPrice supermarket chains have the practice of offering a 2% discount to elderly patrons every Tuesday. I think this can be emulated and expanded to include more retailers, especially the ones frequented by needy and elderly Singaporeans. Madam, I support the move by the Government to extend Kindergarten Financial Assistance Scheme (KiFAS) to kindergartens run by MOE and approved anchor operators. More students and their families would benefit from this extension.”
“They are part of the wider issue of an ever increasing cost of living problem where, unfortunately, many Singaporeans, in particular, our seniors, are unable to cope and they are subsequently left behind in our nation's development. Seen in this light, a nuanced view of the PGP as one of the many means to tackle a larger problem should be adopted. It is one thing to celebrate and honour the achievements of our seniors; it is another thing altogether to romanticise the benefits of the PGP, and any Government should, in fact, recognise that it is merely fulfilling a core function of its duties to the very people who had elected them in the first place. With the above in mind, I would like to put forth the following points for consideration as complementary means to assist our seniors in alleviating their daily financial burden. The Government should consider extending the Taxi Subsidy Scheme that is currently in place for disabled Singaporeans to our Pioneer Generation. Through my work on the ground in Kaki Bukit and my constant interactions with elderly Singaporeans, the cost of travel to and from medical institutions to address their ailments certainly constitutes a big worry to them. Simply put, many of our seniors are unable to afford the transportation costs involved in travelling for their medical appointments. As a result, it has come to my attention that many seniors had to forgo or delay their medical care due to their inability to afford their travel expenses. While public transportation remains an option for many Singaporeans, it must be noted that our seniors may be left without a choice due to the frail condition of their ageing bodies.”
“Yet, my generation and the subsequent generations of Singaporeans after me are indebted to our seniors and their sense of public spiritedness. I read about the Singapore Memory Project as a whole-of-nation movement and I hope that the memories of our Pioneer Generation in the form of text, audio, photos and/ or videos can be deposited or incorporated into this meaningful project. The moments of their experiences, recollections and memories are especially precious and I hope that more tangible and organisational steps can be taken to preserve and record their memories. This is not only meaningful to the seniors but it would also leave a lasting and precious legacy for our young. The history of the common man in Singapore would be further enriched for the betterment of this nation. At the same time, it would also provide us with more resources to explore a more multi-dimensional historiographical understanding of our nation. Madam, it is certainly the responsibility and obligation of any government of the day to take good care of the well-being of its citizens, young and old alike. Page: 87 I am of the view that the PGP is a long overdue recognition of Singapore's pioneers and measures like the ones announced in this year's Budget should continually be tailored and reviewed in the midst of rapid changes in the environment around us. The cost of healthcare is an ever increasing worry for all Singaporeans and this is especially so for our seniors. The PGP focuses solely on meeting the rising healthcare expenses of our seniors and, while this is a positive step forward, the cost of healthcare should not be viewed in isolation.”
“Mdm Speaker, this year's Budget has placed much emphasis on recognising and honouring the sacrifice and the many contributions of the 450,000 seniors who have, in their own little ways, contributed to the building of a young nation. Like many in this House, I would like to register my appreciation and gratitude for the tenacity and gumption of these seniors, many of whom I have the opportunity and privilege to serve in my own ward – Kaki Bukit. They Page: 86 deserve to be treated with utmost respect and any government of the day should facilitate and foster an environment where they can live with dignity and ease during their golden years. Singapore became a sovereign nation a decade before I was born and during the years between 1965 and 1973, Singapore enjoyed a splendid record of growth and, in 1974, real growth was at 6.8%. By the time Singapore turned 10 in August 1975, the economy was expected to record a small growth of no more than 2%, a sharp decline from the previous decade. However, Singaporeans from all walks of life came together and Singapore pulled through another year of growth of about 4.1% in real terms in a year of worldwide economic recession. This could not have been possible without the tenacity and gumption of our seniors. It was them who laid the foundations for a prosperous and safe Singapore that I would come to grow up in and serve as a Member of this House. Many of the stories of these 450,000 seniors who will benefit directly from the Pioneer Generation Package (PGP) are not known to younger Singaporeans like me. Their names are not found in the textbooks in our schools and their humble achievements are usually not on the list of priorities of our curators in museums throughout Singapore.”
“Additionally, if this idea of having FSCs or counselling centres providing counselling and case management during the home supervision phase is implementable, I would like to suggest that the ex-inmates be given an option to have the presence of a resource person, namely, a spiritually learned person, for example, a pastor or an asatizah for their counselling and case management. The presence of spiritually learned persons can also serve as a point of reference and a guide for the ex-inmates in uplifting their personal well-being. This constitutes a continuation of the spiritual guidance that these ex-inmates have been receiving during the period of their incarceration and during their time spent in the halfway home. The option of providing a resource person should be an option which I hope the Ministry can consider in the counselling and case management process. Madam, I hope the Ministry can seriously consider my recommendations and further enhance the benefits that this Bill can provide for fellow Singaporeans and bring us towards a more inclusive society. Madam, I support the Bill. 6.13 pm”
“With this firmly as the context, I am proposing that it would be good to arrange for those ex-inmates who are undergoing the home supervision phase of the MAS to have their counselling and case management provided by the Family Service Centres (FSCs) or counselling centres managed by Voluntary Welfare Organisations in the proximity of their residential address. Madam, there are several benefits to this arrangement. Foremost, counselling and case management would be made accessible, given the extensive geographical spread of FSCs and counselling centres across the island. This would certainly reduce the hassle for the ex-inmate. Secondly, through my experience working in the FSC, there is a fair number of the ex-inmates' next-of-kin or families who may have already been receiving assistance through the respective FSCs, and social workers in the FSCs are well acquainted with the family of the ex-inmate. This serves to provide a better knowledge of the larger context in which the ex-inmate and his family are situated in and this would definitely facilitate the process of preparing and assisting the ex-inmates in their desire to re-integrate themselves back into Page: 112 society. Thirdly, there is no doubt that family support is crucial in the reintegration process, and my recommendations would enable the family to play a more active role. Thus, for ex-inmates whose families who are not known to any FSC, I would like to suggest that the Ministry consider encouraging family members or next-of-kin to be involved in the counselling and case management process. At the same time, the social worker assigned to the ex-inmate and the family would also be able to provide timely counselling to their clients.”
“Mdm Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to speak. It is heartening to know that there has been a reduction of about 17% in the rate of recidivism among our inmates in a 10-year Page: 111 period from year 2000 to 2010. This was communicated by the Ministry in their press statement dated 11 November 2013. In light of this, this amendment Bill, which seeks to enhance and strengthen aftercare support and improve the rehabilitation of ex-offenders into society, is, indeed, very encouraging. In my speech today, I will touch on the Mandatory Aftercare Scheme (MAS) segment of this Bill. According to the Ministry, under the MAS, ex-inmates, upon release from prisons, may be placed in a halfway home, followed by home supervision and, finally, community reintegration. During these phases, the ex-inmates will be provided with counselling and case management, apart from other community supports. Madam, counselling and case management are two of the most vital and effective elements in facilitating ex-inmates to overcome challenges in their efforts to reintegrate themselves back into the society. Ex-inmates require consistent, continuous emotional and psychological support in their bid to build resilience and self-esteem while motivating themselves continually as they transit from prison life and return to the society-at-large. Thus, we must and should enhance on the quality and efficacy of the counselling and case management processes.”
“Minister mentioned just now that there was an average increment of 8% in terms of the increment for the salary. May I know whether MSF has set any target, to what level MSF wants to achieve in terms of increment for the salary?”
“Madam, allow me to speak in Malay. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] I would like to comment or seek Minister's views on the strengthening of religious leadership. I understand that many of the programmes conducted by the Malay/Muslim organisations are religious in nature, where they do not get much funding from the MSF. Does Page: 43 the Minister or MUIS have plans to work closer with MSF to allow these religious programmes to receive more funding? Assoc Prof Dr Yaacob Ibrahim (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] As part of the Government's philosophy, we are a secular Government where religious programmes are not funded by the Government. This is a policy that we have accepted, not only for the Malay community, but also other communities. But at the same time, we know that the programmes conducted by the Malay bodies are important and necessary for our community. Therefore, in this regard, MUIS has distributed zakat funds and other funds belonging to us, to Malay bodies that conduct religious programmes. So, I feel that there is no lack of funds. What is important is for us to ensure that the programmes that we conduct are relevant and are also directed to those in need. If there is more detailed feedback, I can discuss it with Mr Faisal Manap.”
“In fact, many of them look like Malays. Only their identity cards state that they are Indian Muslims and others because it depends on their father's race. For this issue, I suggest the formation of a Committee, where the Committee's role is similar to the role of the Malay Community Committee that decides whether an individual is eligible to stand for an election in a Group Representation Constituency (GRC) as a Malay minority candidate. The group I mentioned earlier can apply to this committee and, if necessary, undergo an interview to ascertain whether he is eligible for the TTFS. Sir, looking ahead, I feel that the formation of such a Committee makes sense, especially since there is an increasing trend of inter-racial marriages, as Page: 179 well as marriages between Singapore Malays and foreign citizens. Joint Madrasah System”
“Sir, in Malay. Page: 178 (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Sir, I would like to put forward two suggestions on the Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS). Firstly, Minister Yaacob, in replying to my parliamentary question, said that the funds from the TTFS that are not disbursed are channelled to the MENDAKI Education Development Fund, whereby this fund is used in educational assistance schemes and educational programmes run by MENDAKI. Here, I would like to suggest that some of the balance of the TTFS fund be set aside and used to form a Post-Graduate Scholarship. The scholarship can be reserved for specialised fields of study, such as Economics and Sociology, that can produce experts who will bring benefits to the Malay community in Singapore. Minister Yaacob previously spoke in an interview with radio station Warna in April 2010 that the Malay community lacks experts who can solve social issues faced by our community. He also said that more Malay experts are needed to solve the issue of dysfunctional families and the drug menace. I feel that such a scholarship can help to motivate and assist individuals to further their studies to a higher level in these specialised fields, so that we can produce experts who are needed to manage social issues among the Malay community in Singapore. Sir, I hope the Government can consider allowing individuals of mixed parentage, like the Indian Muslims, to be given opportunities to benefit from TTFS. I totally understand that TTFS is provided for the Malay community only. However, as we all know, some in the Indian Muslim community and others of mixed marriage parentage in Singapore lead a way of life similar to the Malays. They use mainly the Malay language and also practise Malay culture.”
“Madam, I would like the Ministry to look into the possibility of implementing the Family Care Leave in employment contracts. Flexi and Part-time Work for Mothers”
“Madam, many pro-family policies and workplace initiatives have been rolled out over the last two years to strengthen family ties and foster a more conducive environment for the family. This includes Paternity Leave and Extended Childcare Leave introduced by this Government through the Marriage and Parenthood Package. These measures are certainly a welcome relief for many working families. 3.30 pm Page: 105 As a society, it is important to have in place a support system to nurture the young in our society and prepare them to undertake the leadership of this nation in the future. It is also essential to provide our older generation who have contributed so much to Singapore's nation building, sufficient care in their retired years. At the same time, our disabled must also be able to lead a dignified life in Singapore with support from the state, wherever possible. Madam, there have been many improvements made to prepare our society for an ageing population. Facilities have been enhanced to enable the disabled to travel far more easily within our urban environment. Much has been done but much remains to be done, especially with regard to the care that these groups receive from their own family. Family is often the first line of support, and it is important for us to enhance the family unit and strengthen the support given to the elderly and the disabled within the family unit. This is particularly critical for many lower income families. With the above in mind, I would like to propose to the Ministry to introduce a Family Care Leave applicable, in particular, to caregivers of the elderly, the disabled and individuals with chronic illnesses, such as stroke and kidney disease.”
“Madam, the issue of granting similar transport concessions to Polytechnic students vis-a-vis those currently enjoyed by their counterparts in the Junior Colleges and the Institutes of Technical Education is not a new one. In fact, it has been an issue of concern to past and present Members of this House. It is a perennial issue, going as far back to 2001 where Mr Yeo Cheow Tong was Transport Minister. Certainly, many Polytechnic students look forward to the day when the transport Page: 163 concessions granted to them can be harmonised to the level that is currently enjoyed by their peers in JCs and ITEs. Thus far, there has been nothing but disappointment. [Deputy Speaker (Mr Charles Chong) in the Chair] Sir, as more and more of our students make Polytechnic education as a natural choice of study after their "O" levels, the Government must ensure that the choice in education should not become an inequitable one when it comes to the transport fares and in light of the yawning income gap which affects many of the parents of Polytechnic students. It must also be noted that the dividends paid out by the two transport operators to the shareholders per share has been increasing over the years. A better and more inclusive Singapore would take heed of the concerns of the Polytechnic students and seek to actively address them. With this in mind and the contacts firmly established, I would like to call upon the Ministry, the Public Transport Council, TransitLink and the two transport operators to finally grant similar concessions currently enjoyed by JC and ITE students to their Polytechnic counterparts.”
“Madam, there are currently two types of ambulance services in Singapore – the Emergency Ambulance Service (EAS) operated by SCDF and the non-emergency Page: 82 The non-emergency ambulances provide services such as ferrying patients to and fro hospitals, polyclinics and medical centres for their checks, scheduled appointments and follow-ups. The non-emergency ambulance service cost a family between $60 and $120 for a one-way trip; for a two-way trip, the cost of basic transport services is between $70 and $180. Additional surcharges will be imposed in the event that additional medical attention is required. Madam, I would like to highlight a family of three that I came across recently. The sole breadwinner was previously employed and earns about $1,500 a month. However, due to his wife's medical condition, he left his job to take care of his wife, who is wheelchair-bound and has multiple medical conditions. Her condition requires her to frequent the hospital for her check-up. In order to ensure smooth and safe transfer to and from the hospital, a private ambulance is engaged. I subsequently wrote an appeal letter to AIC but I was informed that there are currently no subsidies in place for families who engage the private ambulance. For this family and many other families who have to use this service on a regular basis, the cost of hiring a private ambulance constitutes the financial burden for them. As such, I urge the Ministry to introduce a non-emergency ambulance subsidy scheme for families with a monthly household income of $1,700 and below, or per capita income of $550. Use of MediSave”
“Under such a circumstance, voluntary welfare organisations (VWOs) and Family Service Centres (FSCs) on the ground, equipped with the relevant resources and human expertise can work with the Ministries to better assess the needs of each resident. This can add a human face and a compassionate touch to the lives of our people when they deal with agencies and bureaucracies. I call upon the Ministries to enhance their collaboration and engagement with the HDB, VWOs and FSCs and seek their advice and professional assessment during the process of determining the validity of a particular appeal.”
“Collaboration between HDB and VWOs Madam, many Members in this House have written countless letters to the HDB on behalf of their respective constituents on many related issues, such as rental housing, waiver of housing levy or the lowering of rental fees. During the course of my work as a Member of Parliament, I familiarised myself with the generic responses offered by HDB to my residents. Allow me to cite two examples. In situations where an appeal by elderly Singaporeans for a rental flat is not successful, HDB will cite the support of his children whilst advising him to stay with his children as the basis for the rejection. In the event of soured relations in the family, HDB would advise the family to seek counselling to resolve their outstanding issues. Under circumstances where an owner has just sold his flat due to his outstanding arrears or a broken marriage, the 30-month long debarment period would be cited as a basis for not granting a HDB rental flat. HDB would also remind the residents of the proceeds from Page: 34 the sale of his previous flat. Such responses in themselves are not wrong, but I urge the Ministry to exercise more care, greater due diligence and demonstrate a greater level of compassion for each individual appeal. Each appeal letter represents a hope and a bond of trust that residents have in place in the judgement and abilities of the Ministries and its officials to alleviate their most immediate problems. More care should be given and more time should be spent in assessing cases and the nature of the appeal. Each family is different and the situation of members in each family is unique, and, hence, more time and flexibility need to be exercised when assessing the eligibility and merits of each appeal.”
“Madam, in my previous cut on the housing resale levy value, I have depicted the circumstances in which lower income families have been requested to sell off their property. This sets in place a 30-month long debarment period for flat owners who intend to rent a flat directly from the HDB. Page: 33 I recall one of my residents who came to seek my help at my Meet-the-People session. He is a low-income earner with five young children under his care. He was left stranded and homeless and his family had to resort to sleeping in a tent by the beach after he had exhausted all of his sales proceeds on renting a flat from the open market. Officers from the Ministry of Social and Family Development subsequently picked him up and his family was placed in a community shelter. During the 30-month long period in which he was unable to rent a flat from the HDB, he built up another series of arrears as a result of his tight financial situation where the bulk of his proceeds went to servicing his rental commitments. Today, even though he has been allocated a HDB rental flat, he is still struggling to pay off the arrears he accumulated during the 30-month long period. The family remains trapped in the debt cycle. The case I have illustrated is not unique. In fact, many Members of this House would have come across similar cases during the course of their work. We can and should do more for the lower income Singaporeans. I would like to call upon the Minister to consider exempting the lower income families from the debarment policy, or at least reduce the debarment period for renting a HDB flat from the current 30 months to a period not exceeding 12 months, preferably between 10 and 12 months. Such a move would be most welcomed by many lower income families.”
“Sir, I understand that the Resale Levy is introduced to reduce the subsidy on the second subsidised flat, with the function of exercising fairness in the granting of housing subsidies between the first- and second-timer citizen families and to grant priority to first-timers who have more urgent housing needs. The Resale Levy constitutes a financial burden to owners with a monthly income of $1,500 and below. Often, during my Meet-the-People sessions, I come across many lower income families who have been advised by the HDB to sell off their flat due to outstanding arrears, or owners who have been ordered by the court to sell off their matrimonial flat due to a broken marriage. Sir, under the circumstances depicted above, it is noteworthy to highlight that the owner has little or no choice as a result of evolving life circumstances to sell off their property. In the first place, these families already face considerable financial difficulties and the proceeds from the sale of the flat would provide some much needed financial breathing space. At the same time, the owner has been debarred from renting a flat directly from the HDB and, hence, has to resort to paying open market rental rates. Any sales proceeds received would then be depleted by exorbitant rental rates. Moreover, by the time the owner decides to obtain a new flat, he would not have the financial means to pay for his Resale Levy. This has the effect of limiting his housing options and his desire for a new start. Hence, I would like to call upon the Minister to consider allowing the Resale Levy to be incorporated into the new housing mortgage, to be paid together with the monthly mortgage instalment, for lower income families. Priorities for Flat Allocation”
“And I believe that the bulk of the answers already lie within us and within this country we call home. The main thing is do we have the courage to bite the bullet, remove our crutches vis-a-vis foreign manpower and avoid population overreach? So, I urge the Government to continue to place a lot more effort on the integration of new citizens. Integration Policies for New Singaporeans”
“I reiterate my call, made last month, to the Government to completely drop the use of the term "foreign talent". Secondly, we should put in place dependency ceiling ratios even at the Employment Pass level. This is a point that has been raised by other Members. This can help ensure that we keep the crutch mentality vis-a-vis foreign manpower at bay, especially at the PMET level. We must continue to nurture and develop a strong Singaporean Core at the workplaces. Let me emphasise that this is not a call for preferential treatment but a level playing field for equal Page: 92 opportunities, all very much in line with our meritocratic ethos. Thirdly, integration starts at the selection process. We must be more selective in who we admit to the Singaporean club as Permanent Residents and new citizens. We also need to calibrate the numbers more carefully. Much as Singapore needs to right size its population, it is crucial that those who seek the Singapore franchise understand Singapore society, her foundational ethos, her shared values and heritage, and her limitations. They need to know what they are pledging allegiance to. It will take a while before the intended outcome of the integrative mechanisms that have been put in place will result in Singaporeans becoming more accepting of immigration. If it does, it will enable Singapore to keep an open door to new immigrants while assuring Singaporeans that they are recognised and that their identities are secure. However, if Singaporeans are not persuaded and do not accept the immigration regime and the new immigrants, then Singapore will have to search for viable alternatives to help her deal with the reality of a declining, ageing population.”
“It was our lifeblood and, going forward, it can continue to be so if the immigration policy secures, in the words of Deputy Prime Minister Teo in his reply to my PQ yesterday, "Trust and consensus among Singaporeans on the future that we must build together". Regardless of the pace of immigration, more openness over the direction of the immigration regime can help secure buy-in. The Government and Singaporeans should not shy away from a frank discussion over the pluses and minuses of immigration. Immigration is not the silver bullet for our demographic challenges; neither is it all doom and gloom. Singaporeans will be persuaded, at both cognitive and affective levels, if it can be shown that overall welfare is increased, our interests adequately looked after, and our identities secure and safeguarded. More importantly, special efforts will have to be made to those who are negatively affected by the immigration policy. In particular, Singaporean workers whose wages or prospects have been depressed by the large numbers of transient foreign manpower at the low-skilled and skilled levels. Besides ramping up infrastructure development to cater to a larger population, I urge the Government to put just as much effort to another "I" – integration. Let me emphasise that integration is a two-way street. Even as we compete with other countries for well-qualified immigrants, our immigration policy and regime must ensure that the average Singaporean is not made to feel inferior or that they are being taken for granted. I much prefer the term "Singaporean Core" over the "Singaporean First" policy approach. No matter what term we use, the policy must have substantive merit and meaning.”
“Madam, in my speech during the White Paper on Population debate, I said that I am of the view that maybe emigration is one of the factors that might have led to the decrease in the percentage of Malays in Singapore. My third question is whether there is an upward trend of Malay emigration for the last 10 years, what is the annual number of Malay individuals who have emigrated from Singapore and whether it is the main factor that led to the decrease in the percentage of Malays. Madam, I quoted the speech by Ms Grace Fu during the debate on the White Paper on Population, that is, "the Government recognises the need to maintain the racial balance in Singapore's population in order to preserve social stability." Based on this, I request that the Government implement more effective steps in this issue on the composition of Malays in Singapore. Integration and the Immigration Policy Asst Prof Tan Kheng Boon Eugene (Nominated Member): Madam, successful integration of immigrants, be it foreign students, transient workers, Permanent Residents, or new citizens, is crucial if Singapore's immigration regime is to be legitimate and successful. This House debated the Population White Paper just a month ago. It was a bruising debate, controversial inside this House and unpopular outside. But I see a silver lining – issues, concerns, fears, needs, prejudices, stereotypes got raised. We now need to work through the differences and build trust and confidence. Page: 91 I sincerely hope all stakeholders, in particular businesses, citizens and the Government, will reach out to each other. Immigration will continue to be a prominent feature in Singapore's political, economic and sociocultural landscape.”
“[Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Madam, Parliament recently concluded the debate on the White Paper on Population. I have several questions on the issue about the composition of Malays in Singapore. During the final day of debate on the White Paper on Population, the Prime Minister, in his speech, gave assurances that the Government will make efforts to ensure that the percentage of Malays in Singapore will continue to be stable, even though he did not explain what steps will be taken by the Government in this matter. The Prime Minister also commented last December during a session of Our Singapore Conversation that the Government had done its best and worked hard to attract Malay talents from Malaysia and Indonesia, but the numbers were small. Therefore, my first question is: what are the steps that were taken by the Government so far to attract Malay talents from Malaysia and Indonesia, but did not result in a good outcome, and what are the next steps Page: 90 that will be taken by the Government in its effort to attract Malay talents? Madam, during the same debate, Minister Ms Grace Fu said that the percentage of Malays in the citizen population, which does not include Permanent Residents, is stable, whereby in the year 2000, it was 14.9% and in 2010, it increased to 15.1%. This is a very encouraging statement, but if we looked at the overall resident population, which includes citizens as well as Singapore Permanent Residents, the percentage of Malays experienced a reduction from 13.9% in the year 2000, to 13.4% in 2010. My second question is: what are the factors that led to the decrease in the percentage of Malays, in terms of resident population, even though there is an increase in the percentage of Malays in terms of citizen population?”
“As a Member of Parliament for the Kaki Bukit ward of Aljunied GRC, I can attest to the good work done by the staff and volunteers at the Moral Family Service Centre at Block 534, Bedok North Street 3, and any enhancement of the functions and capabilities of the centre would be most welcome by residents and social workers alike staying and working in my constituency. From my experience as a counsellor, greater support would also be welcomed by all concerned and aware of the situation in many of the FSCs across the island. An efficient and productive FSC will be in line with the fourth pillar of the social strategy painted by Deputy Prime Minister Tharman in his Budget Speech, that the role of the community and the Government providing strong support for the community initiatives by partnering with community bodies and groups of citizens to improve the lives of Singaporeans. Mdm Speaker, the issues I raised during last year's and this year's Budget are not mutually exclusive from one another. In fact, in striving for an inclusive society which is the core principle in last year's and this year's Budget, these issues are integral and intrinsic components. However, there are no quick solutions to complex issues especially when it comes to issues over social welfare and the role of Government in welfare support. But as long as any government of the day puts the welfare of its people at the core of it policies, exercising compassion with flexible management of resources, while strengthening the social compact, nothing is too difficult to overcome in our case for a better and more inclusive Singapore. 1.07 pm”
“Basically, the role of an FSC, apart from providing counselling and casework management, is to provide information on type of community services that are available and wherever necessary conduct the appropriate assessment and recommend referrals to relevant Government agencies. There needs to a be a clear definition of the different case management roles played by the respective agencies namely the CDCs, FSCs and the social service office. If the social service office does the co-ordination, then what happens to the case manager at the FCS? How does this differentiate from the intensive case management system being put in place now? Seen in this light, may I ask what makes the social service office different from the current Family Service Centres that we have and what improvement can social workers on the ground expect from the establishment of the social service office? What would happen to the existing CDCs, FSCs and VWOs' structure that are currently in place, recognised and accepted by the people whom we want to help? I hope that the Deputy Prime Minister can ensure social workers and industry professionals on the ground that the social service offices are not mainly satellite CDCs which would then defeat the purpose of the proposal to Page: 28 set up 20 social service offices. Madam, I am of the view that it is far more productive to channel the resources in establishing the social service office towards enhancing the functions and the capabilities of the FSCs which incidentally are located in the neighbourhood.”
“Madam, Deputy Prime Minister Tharman announced that about 20 social service offices would be established to improve the manner in which the Government delivers social services. In The Straits Times article on 26 February Page: 27 2013, it is explained that the social service offices serve as a one-stop centre located closer to homes with the function of planning and co-ordinating social services to ensure that the families get holistic support. In short, it is hoped that the administration of social services can be integrated and any duplication avoided. However, I remain puzzled by the introduction of another level of bureaucracy to the existing layers of social service structures and support network. While we frown upon a welfare state, we seem to embrace increase bureaucratisation in the administration of social welfare support. There are too many questions that need answers and I hope these questions can be properly addressed. Madam, first, I would like to know which organisation would be given the responsibilities to run and manage these offices. Second, social workers that I have spoken to are interested to know more about the function of this office and the roles of the officers stationed at this office. And thirdly, is there a requirement for these officers to be social work trained? The social service officers appear at first sight without much explanation to be a duplication of services offered by the Family Service Centre or FSC. From my tenure as a counsellor at an FSC, I am aware that FSCs provide information and referral services or INR. It also assumes the role as a one-stop centre for residents who are seeking assistance.”
“Madam, the PA scheme and the other ComCare assistance schemes that are currently in place are meant to ease the burden of needy Singaporeans, and these assistance schemes come under the purview, management and administration of the Community Development Councils or CDCs in short. Apart from enhancing the various components of assistance, is also crucial to ensure that the administration of the aid is thorough and effective. In my last Budget speech, I have expressed my concerns that only 6% of the Investigative Officers from the CDCs are trained in social work. This is not only unfortunate but also worrying at the same time. Investigative Officers on the ground have to make judgement calls that require the aptitude of trained social work professionals who are able to evaluate the needs of the vulnerable with compassion. With the intake of social work students at the University level remaining constant at about 200 each year, I hope to see more plans to make social work and the study of social services a more attractive option for GCE "A" levels and Polytechnic graduates. There is an urgent need to increase the current pool of social work professionals in the industry. This can come in the form of more scholarships and greater societal, remunerative recognitions of their contributions especially in the contacts of a rapidly ageing Singapore. I believe that the quality of social services rendered to our people should not be compromised. It is important to have a professionally trained sector so as to minimise the number of Singaporeans who fall through the cracks and hence move Singapore a step closer towards a more inclusive society.”
“(In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Madam, beside the KiFAS scheme, another scheme that I would like to talk about is MOE's Edusave scheme. Mr Zainal Sapari, Member for Pasir-Ris Punggol GRC, and I raised this issue in the Committee of Supply last year. One of us has given our views on why the Edusave scheme should be extended to students in the full-time madrasah. Madam, creating an inclusive society is one of the main objectives of the Budget last year and this year. The Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Tharman, has said in his speech that we, meaning the Government, has taken major steps to ensure the creation of an equitable and more inclusive society. Madam, it is on this call for a more inclusive society that I again call upon MOE to realise this call by the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Tharman, to extend the Edusave scheme Page: 26 to students of the full-time madrasah. (In English): Mdm Speaker, I will continue the rest of my speech in English. Allow me to move on to my second issue on the Public Assistance (PA) scheme. I welcome the Government's move in enhancing this scheme. Any amount of increase means a lot to the beneficiaries. I also welcome the multi-tier approach to the PA scheme. Under the secondary tier, healthcare assistance, such as adult diapers, stoma bags, milk supplements and so on, is long overdue as expenses on these items are not cheap to the affected families. I have also noted the scale of increment ranging from $50 per month for a one-person household to $130 per month for a four-person household. However, clearer clarification and explanation as to how the increment is considered, tabulated and arrived at is required from the relevant Ministries.”
“Madam, in January 2012, my fellow Workers' Party colleague, Mr Yee Jenn Jong asked a parliamentary question on KiFAS. He asked whether the eligibility for KiFAS could be extended to private pre-school operators and not-for-profit religious or racial groups. In his written answer, the Minister pointed out that there are currently about 240 kindergartens where families can apply for KiFAS. At the same time, it is a known fact that PCF kindergartens are eligible for KiFAS. Incidentally, a quick check on the PCF website would indicate that there are 247 PCF kindergartens in Singapore. You must understand the various considerations a parent has in enrolling his or her children in a pre-school. Among the many factors are proximity and the environment provided by the school. Some parents may, for convenience's sake, choose to send their children to a non-PCF kindergarten. For example, in my Kaki Bukit ward, some parents who are unable to obtain a placement at a PCF kindergarten at Block 519 Bedok North Avenue 1 would have to send their children to a non-PCF kindergarten. Parents would also like to have their children receive their education in a preferred environment in accordance to their beliefs and values. As such, there are parents who send their children to kindergartens run and managed by religious organisations or religious-based voluntary welfare organisations. Madam, my view is simple and I hope KiFAS can be expanded to all families who are in need. It should be about providing assistance in accordance to economic needs rather than in accordance to one's choice of kindergarten. KiFAS should be made available to all students who require it and should not be limited solely to the 247 PCF kindergartens. Mdm Speaker, I will continue in Malay.”
“I applaud the Government's intention to increase the pay of professional in the social service sector but, I believe, more can be done and the process can be further accelerated to enhance the competitiveness of the industry vis-a-vis the teaching sector, as stated in my speech last year. The Government should also look at enhancing the recognition and salaries of support staff in the industry such as the Early Intervention Teaching Assistant, the Special Education Teaching Assistant and the Social Service Assistant. They play a crucial and integral role in the smooth running of this social service sector and they should be recognised for it. Madam, my first point is on financial assistance for students from disadvantaged and less well-to-do families. The Deputy Prime Minister, in his Budget speech, has reiterated the importance of social mobility and he intends to improve it by providing children from less well-to-do families at the pre-school and Primary school levels with a leg up. He also recognised that meritocracy alone is not sufficient in the sustenance of social mobility. Undoubtedly, there are many financial assistance schemes currently in place to assist these students at both the pre-school and Primary school levels. For pre-school students, Kindergarten Financial Assistance Scheme (KiFAS) has been the lifeline of many families. I am glad to know that such assistance is available and tapped upon by these families. Indeed, as someone who worked in a Family Service Centre before, I have seen many children benefiting from this Scheme. However, many in this House would know that KiFAS is only made available Page: 25 mainly for students in the PAP Community Foundation kindergartens.”
“Mdm Speaker, thank you for giving me the opportunity to be part of this debate. Singapore is not a welfare state but we should certainly be a state concerned with the welfare of its people, in particular lower- and middle-income Singaporeans. Our social compact is one of Singapore's prized assets and it is the duty of any government of the day to ensure that it is not left exposed to market forces. With this in mind, I appreciate the series of assistance rolled out in this year's Budget to alleviate the burden of daily living in an increasingly unequal society for lower- and middle-income families. However, I hope that this year's Budget will set in motion a re-thinking on the part of the Government to place more Page: 24 emphasis on the social compact to improve the nation's well-being. In my speech last year, I raised three issues: first, empowering our social workers and other professionals in the social service sector; second, reaching out to the vulnerable; and third, adopting a holistic approach in the forging of an inclusive society. My speech this year will build on my speech last year and I will be raising three more issues: first, assistance for students from disadvantaged and less well-to-do backgrounds; second, support for the Public Assistance Scheme; and lastly the introduction of social services office. Madam, social attitudes towards the social service sector must evolve with an increasingly ageing population. In February last year, the Acting Minister for Community, Youth and Sports, Mr Chan Chun Sing said, within the next one to two years, we should be able to close the salary very substantially to eliminate the gap. So, from a numerative perspective, it is competitive.”
“[Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Thank you, Madam. Like I said just now, the matter that I raised yesterday, is not only from me or Ms Sylvia Lim. In fact, the SAF issue, which is very sensitive to the Malay/Muslim community, was raised by Mr Zaqy Mohamad based on feedback he received from the Malay/Muslim community. That is what I said. Thank you. 2.58 pm”
“Mdm Speaker, thank you for giving me this opportunity to clarify. Please allow me to do it in Malay. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] I did not say that whatever I said yesterday is the view of the Workers' Party. But whatever I said is the view of the community, that I, as a Member of Parliament voted in by the community, have to explain. And going back to the questions that I mentioned, it did not only come from me or Ms Sylvia Lim, but also from the hon Member of Parliament from Chua Chu Kang, Mr Zaqy Mohamad. So, what I would like to say is that the equality issues are still lingering in the minds of the Malay community. I hope the Government can do something to provide an explanation, or to find a way to explain, so that these matters can be reduced Page: 59 within the minds of the Malay/Muslim community of Singapore.”
“In the meantime, I myself have asked whether there is an ethnic quota for the admission of students in public universities in Singapore. Madam, these questions were asked because these are the feedback that my Parliamentary colleagues and I receive from the Malay community. From such feedback, we have to admit that the issue of equity is still lingering in the minds of the Malays. Madam, the Government's White Paper titled "A Sustainable Population for a Dynamic Singapore" explained that to build a dynamic Singapore, we must have a sustainable or substantial population. We, the Workers' Party, think otherwise. We believe that to achieve a sustainable Singapore, it will require that a dynamic population or society be built. Lastly, my view is that to build a dynamic society and sustainable Singapore, "inclusivity" – that is frequently mentioned by the Government – must be applied correctly and sincerely in the sense that everyone, regardless of race, language or religion is given equal rights in all aspects of life in our country. Madam, with that, I end my speech by saying that I oppose this Motion. 6.53 pm”
“Madam, even though the answer does not state the actual number of Malays, but from what I observed, the number is quite high. Madam, when I was studying in Melbourne, Australia, for three years, I found many Malay families who have emigrated there. After speaking to these families, I found that among their reasons for emigrating was that they felt that they were not given equal opportunities when they were back home in Singapore. Madam, I refer to the front page of yesterday's Berita Minggu with the headline "Aspirations to Build a Better Future". This article reported that the chairman of the Suara Musyawarah committee, Mr Sallim Abdul Kadir, said that the conclusion of the participants from a recent forum is about the issue of "Equal Opportunities" and not the issue of discrimination. Later, he said that Page: 114 "This is a new issue that he has seen that has become a topic of discussion during the dialogue session held by the Suara Musyawarah committee". Madam, perhaps the issue of equity is something new for the Suara Musyawarah dialogue session. However, from my own interaction, experience and observation, the issue of equity has existed all this while among the Malay community in Singapore. In March 2012, in a speech by a Member of Parliament, Mr Zaqy Mohamad, during the COS debate, he spoke about the discussion between some Malay individuals who asked about the Government's policy on the role or position of Malays in the Singapore Armed Forces, and he requested that the Ministry clarified this matter. My colleague, Ms Sylvia Lim, had also queried in this Chamber whether there is a Government policy that gives exemption from National Service to Madrasahgraduates.”
“] Mdm Speaker, in a Berita Harian report dated 30 January 2013, the Minister in-charge of Muslim Affairs, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, gave assurances that the Prime Minister has promised to maintain the balance in racial composition after the Government presented the White Paper on population. Dr Yaacob then said that the Prime Minister spoke about this twice. Madam, I would like to ask the Government two questions regarding this matter. Firstly, what are the steps or efforts that will be taken by the Government to maintain the balance in racial composition so that the proportion of Malays is not affected or does not decrease? This is seeing that the total fertility rate of Malays has gone down year after year, and that the Prime Minister has previously said during "Our Singapore Conversation" last December, that the Government have really tried and worked hard to attract Malay talents from Malaysia and Indonesia, but the numbers are very small each year. My second question is what is the number or the rate of Malay immigrants that is being planned for, or estimated by the Government, to maintain this balance in the racial composition. Madam, one of the reasons contributing to the decrease in the percentage of Malays is emigration. When answering my question in Parliament on how many Singaporeans have renounced their citizenship from 2001 to 2011, as well as the breakdown according to each race, Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Teo, said that around 10,900 Singapore Citizens have renounced their citizenships, where the average is around 1,000 per year. The breakdown according to race is as follows – half, that is, 500 are Chinese and the rest, around 500 are a combination of Malays, Indians and other races.”
“Mdm Speaker, apart from a healthy work-life balance, ownership of a house is also high on the priority list for couples, especially newly-weds. A house provides a comfortable and conducive environment for the development of a family nucleus. Social scientists have long traced a connection between housing and fertility. When a home is scarce or beyond the means of young couples, couples delay marriage or have fewer children. Newly-wed couples also find it challenging to own a house due to high costs. On this matter, I would like to propose the Government to grant a housing grant of $10,000 for the birth of the first child, $15,000 for the birth of the second child and $20,000 for the birth of the third child. The availability of these grants may help to lessen the financial burden in their consideration to start a family. According to Seth Sanders, director of the Maryland Population Research Centre at the University of Maryland in a New York Times article published in 2008, I quote: "If you lower the cost of housing, you're going to lower the cost of raising a child." Madam, in conclusion, population is a complex issue and there are no easy answers to such a multi-faceted issue. No efforts should be spared to improve Singapore's total fertility rate and the infrastructure to cope with the projected increase in our population. The Government must know that this is an irreversible process and generations after may suffer missteps this Government Page: 113 is taking in 2013. Madam, with this, I would next speak on the Motion in Malay. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.”
“I acknowledge that the Government has expressed its support for policies to improve work-life balance and increase flexi-work options. But I believe that the Government can do more and they must make a stronger commitment in this area. Mdm Speaker, the House may wonder, what is the price that Singapore may have to pay as a result of half-hearted social policies? In a study on emigration attitudes of young Singaporeans in 2010 conducted by the Institute of Policy Studies, it pointed out that, I quote: "In the endeavour to retain Singaporeans, it is important for policymakers to complement the current emphasis on national obligations with policies that would encourage stronger family and friendship ties, which emerged as critical Page: 112 factors of rootedness. It is also necessary for policymakers to address the work-life balance in Singapore, which came up as a key area of dissatisfaction in the study." Our next generation cannot afford for this generation of leaders to get this issue wrong. A Singaporean Singapore is at stake here and the stakes are high. Mdm Speaker, the Government should commit to reducing the number of working hours to 40 hours a week. I have called for this in one of my previous speeches in this House. This can be done by improving productivity by adopting technological innovations and changing our work practices. I am of the view that, if the Government is serious about improving the work-life balance of Singaporeans, then it must lead the way through action and legislation. The Government should increase the support and create stronger incentives for employers to implement better work-life balance practices and flexi-work arrangements. The civil service should set the example for the private sector to follow.”
“I believe that as long as there is the easy and enticing option for immigration top-up, there is the moral hazard of taking the path of least resistance that will end up with half-hearted promotion of TFR recovery. And sadly, I can say that this is already Page: 111 happening. It is natural for two individuals who are in love to get married and procreate. It is the dream of every couple to start their own family and see their own children grow up under their nurturing care. Many surveys have indicated that most Singaporeans want to get married and have more than two children. However, circumstances pose as obstacles to them. The current Marriage and Parenthood Package has its criticisms. Critics mentioned that this package is an expensive third-round of band-aid solutions that do not address the structural problems causing the low TFR in the first place. Among the structural problems are (i) the lack of work-life balance and (ii) the lack of financial security due to the escalating housing costs and the long housing wait for newlyweds. Madam, my work experience as a marriage counsellor has provided me with many insights and enabled me to understand very well the worries, concerns and fears of young Singaporeans who intend to marry and start a family as well as the problems faced by married couples. The most common issue raised is the factor of time. Couples whom I have come across in the course of my work shared with me that while they have anticipated the demands of work and marriage on their family life, this lack of time has often taken a toll on them and prevented them from carrying out their spousal roles and parental responsibilities. The emotions and psychological needs are affected and the quality of family life is consequently compromised.”
“Professor Francis T Lui from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology pointed out that "the small size of Hong Kong's residential quarters is likely one of the factors causing the low fertility rate." This is also consistent with the finding in a recent paper by Murphy, Simon, and Tamura (2008), which provides evidence indicating that population density, or price of space, is negatively correlated with fertility rate in the United States. Madam, what is my point? In 2030, there will be a denser Singapore and as these reputable studies point out, a reduction in Singapore's total fertility rate. The most worrying aspect of this is the increase in the non-Singaporean portion in the population, especially with immigration top-ups. The Singaporean core will be compromised. The fact is we will be further from a Singaporean Singapore in 2030. In the 18 years leading up to 2030, I think we will see this worrying trend developing before our very eyes. The Government has thus far failed to address this relationship between density and fertility, which has wide ranging implications on the identity of Singapore and Singaporeans in 2030. As things stand now with this White Paper, there is a fundamental disconnect between the aspirations of Singaporeans and their children with this 6.9 million figure. Madam, it is stated in this White Paper that one of the three key pillars for a sustainable population is that of Singaporeans forming the core of our society. The best way or approach to maintain a Singaporean core that is strongly Singaporean is to improve the Total Fertility Rate (TFR).”
“This will ensure that Singapore continues to stay relevant in the midst of globalised pressures. I am for a dynamic population for a sustainable Singapore, buttressed by a Singaporean core, a Singaporean Singapore. Here, I would like to express my grave concern on the approach that the Government is adopting and the direction that this Government is bringing the country. Madam, as a parent of three, I can empathise with the fears, discomfort, anxieties and insecurities that many Singaporean parents share about the future that is in store for their children in a 6.9 million Singapore. The fears, anxieties and insecurities are not irrational. You can feel it, especially so when Page: 110 the rate of immigration is exceeding the capacity of the country's infrastructure. Despite the many pleas by the Government to not worry, there is no doubt that parents are concerned about the future of their children as the Singaporean core gets increasingly diluted. What will happen to the Singapore that we have grown up to know and loved? In 2030, is Singapore still worth fighting for? These are concerns that the Government must adequately address. Singaporeans must believe in Singapore again. Mdm Speaker, The Economist observed in 2006 that the world's lowest fertility rates are in super-crowded Hong Kong, Macau and Singapore. That suggests the role density plays in affecting the fertility rate of a country. Given that Singapore will become increasingly denser by 2030, this is an issue that we must address. A recent study in 2010 also indicated the negative correlation between density and fertility.”
“Mdm Speaker, the Singapore pledge is an oath of allegiance to this nation. My eldest son and my second son, together with many other students across the island, recite the pledge every morning. They end off with the following creed, "to achieve happiness, prosperity and progress for our nation." Members of this House will agree with me that this is neither youthful idealism nor an ideological aspiration. It is a promise made by all Singaporeans to their fellow Singaporeans, a promise to achieve happiness, prosperity and progress for Singapore. Mdm Speaker, our Government has placed its nation-building emphasis on our economy and the relentless pursuit of GDP growth. Singaporeans have been reminded time and again that a healthy GDP will bring about a better life for all. The negative consequences will be minimised and relieved with the onset of economic growth. It was on this note that between 2008 and 2011, our Government widened the door and allowed the large influx of foreigners and immigrants into this tiny nation state. The Government argued that we need a critical mass in our workforce to ensure the vibrancy of the economy. However, Singaporeans today face a widening income gap, a rising cost of living, increased social friction, unhappiness at the direction this country is taking, worried about their employment prospects. Singapore ranks consistently near to the top in any international benchmark on GDP per capita but sadly, many people do not seem to be happy. What went wrong? Mdm Speaker, this is my understanding of the White Paper. In order for Singapore to have critical mass for its continued economic growth, there is a need to attract more immigrants and enlarge the foreign workforce, especially in light of the current Total Fertility Rate of 1.2.”
“Sir, I feel that the main functions of the committee should include, firstly, the strengthening of the cooperation network between Malay/Muslim bodies focusing on this issue, so that they can share their expertise, experience and resources more effectively. Secondly, this committee can be used as a contact point for the Ministry, by providing advice and views on trends that are unique to the Malay community, on the issue of drug abuse. Sir, the Malay community has Mendaki, which works with several ministries, to lead efforts in raising educational levels. The Syariah Court and the Registry of Muslim Marriages too, working under the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, lead efforts in addressing the issue of divorce. Hence, I feel that we should set up a committee to lead the efforts against drug abuse in the Malay community. 5.49 pm”
“I think that this is not an exclusive request because there are already a number of social centres and halfway houses administered by Malay/Muslim organisations, such as Jamiyah, Pertapis and the Hira Educational and Social Services Centre, that conduct programmes and counselling for offenders and their families. Page: 1109 My reason for emphasising the necessity of such efforts is that based on my observations and experience as a counsellor, I noticed that many drug abusers have poor resilience and self-identity, and this comes from a lack of determination. I believe that with an injection of spirituality, the abusers can become more determined, and this will produce a strong and resilient identity within them. Sir, the drug problem has shackled the Malay community for so long. Although many initiatives and efforts have been implemented by the Ministry itself or through cooperation with welfare bodies, I believe that more can be done. Here, I would like to ask whether the Ministry has any plans to set up a special committee, specifically for the Malay community, to combat the drug menace. Sir, I feel that the formation of such a committee is necessary to further strengthen and refine efforts to combat the drug menace among the Malay community. The composition of the committee should include representatives from the Malay/Muslim bodies, especially those that are already active in these efforts, such as the Hira Education and Social Services centre, Jamiyah, Pertapis as well as individuals who have long contributed their efforts and energy to address the drug phenomenon, such as Islamic religious teachers who provide counselling services at the DRCs.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I will deliver my speech in Malay. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech on Pg 1176-1178.] Mr Speaker, thank you for allowing me to speak in this debate. As we know, the issue of drug abuse is a never-ending one. This challenge of drug abuse is difficult to overcome, and it requires the involvement and efforts from all parties, including Ministries, Government agencies, welfare bodies, the general public, families and the drug abusers themselves. In short, it requires a holistic and collective effort. Sir, I would like to refer to section 36(a) which touches on the "Administration of Community Rehabilitation Centres". I fully support the idea to set up the Community Rehabilitation Centres (CRCs) as announced by the Senior Minister of State, Mr Masagos Zulkifli, during the Central Narcotics Bureau's WorkPlan Seminar in April 2012. In his speech, Mr Masagos explained that the centre will function as a step-down arrangement for young abusers who committed their first offence, where these new young abusers will be referred to such centres after undergoing short-term detention at the Drug Rehabilitation Centre. The main aim of this plan is to give an opportunity for these moderate-risk young offenders to continue their education or occupation during the day. Sir, the setting up of the CRCs will send a signal to these new young abusers that they will still be given a second chance and will still be accepted by society, even though they have made a mistake. This can encourage these abusers to work hard to make up for their mistakes. Sir, in this regard, I would like to propose that the CRCs be managed by welfare bodies that are spiritually based, especially for Malay offenders.”
“Mr Speaker, I would like to thank the Minister for his comprehensive reply. I would like to ask whether there has been any review conducted on the Haj system, which is managed by MUIS, since last year's unfortunate Haj circumstances. If yes, were there any irregularities discovered and how were these addressed? Assoc Prof Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Sir, the system that we have in place is, in fact, very comprehensive and well audited by a lot of other countries because we follow a very rigorous system of allocation and priority and queuing system. What happened last year was really something which was beyond our control because we were promised by the former Saudi Ambassador a certain number of goodwill visas which never materialised. But we have always taken the position that we should work on our official quota, plan based on our official quota, and anything that comes extra is a bonus. On the part of the community, we actually have different queues for people with different priorities. And so if we have additional quotas, we will give those on a different queue those places. But those who are on the first priority list, which is what we call Category A and Category B, they will be given the official quota. At the end of the day, I think our planning norms are all right, but there are a lot of uncertainties in this particular business because issues regarding allocation and places within the Holy Land are really beyond our control. Page: 968”