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PARLIAMENT OF SINGAPORE · FORMER

Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim

Singapore

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Some of their preliminary recommendations include a hotline dedicated to support families of inmates and ex-offenders, as well as a one-stop rehabilitation hub to consolidate the MMO programmes and initiatives. (In English): Sir, MHA has enhanced the culture-responsive rehabilitation for the Indian offender population.

COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY – HEAD P (MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS) - 2026-02-27 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

(In English): Sir, let me conclude by re-affirming our commitment to uplifting those in need, providing them with stability and empowering them to lead lives of dignity and opportunity. To make a lasting impact, we need the support from every member of the society, including all of us here in this House.

COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY – HEAD T (MINISTRY OF NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT) - 2025-03-05 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

SCDF will also continue to disseminate advisories on AMD fires via social media and mainstream media. The Ministry of Transport's (MOT's) COS debate will further address enforcement measures against AMDs. Sir, it is incumbent upon us all to ensure a safe and secure Singapore.

COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY – HEAD P (MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS) - 2025-03-04 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

We will continue to build a home that responds to the diverse and evolving needs of our population, a home that integrates housing with social support to empower and uplift our lower-income households and a home that allows our seniors to age gracefully and safely within the community, in our neighbourhoods and homes.

COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY – HEAD T (MINISTRY OF NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT) - 2024-03-05 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

The HTX is developing novel NPS testing capabilities to enable this. We will also continue to collaborate with other countries to curb drug supply into Singapore. In 2023, CNB conducted 19 joint operations and investigations with foreign counterparts.

COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY – HEAD P (MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS) - 2024-02-29 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

21 travellers missed their flights, and these affected travellers were offered to rebook on alternative flights within a week at no extra cost.

CLARIFICATION BY MINISTER OF STATE FOR HOME AFFAIRS - 2023-04-21 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

The complete record

Every one of 324 lines we hold for Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 7 of 7.

  1. Madam, may I ask the Minister about the participation rate of volunteers in the age group of 25 to 35 years old? Have there been any studies done to understand the attitudes of this group of people towards volunteerism? This would give us a better understanding of their aspirations and challenges, thus enabling us to engage them better. Finally, are there measures taken to further engage this group and improve their volunteer participation rate in community service? Youth Space

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-03-08 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  2. Madam, it is widely believed that volunteerism is fundamental to the development of social values among our youths and serve to strengthen their individual ties with the community where they live and serve. It creates a platform for youth and working adult alike to develop their role in society and contribute to the community in active citizenry. In a recent parliamentary question which I asked the Minister, he mentioned that the volunteerism rate for young Singaporeans between the ages of 15 to 24 years old has been rising over the past five years, specifically from 17% in 2002 to 28% in 2006. As a follow-up to the question, I gathered feedback from fellow Singaporeans and youth activists and I sense that more could be done to engage volunteers in the age group of 25 to 35 years old. There are concerns that this group might constitute a smaller segment of the volunteers in the volunteer circles. This could partly be due to their work and family commitments. However, I believe that this group has a lot to offer and can play a greater role in society. The majority of them are likely to have started to work and a large segment would be married and some would have children. They have the potential to contribute to the society and to miss this opportunity would be a great waste to the society. I would like to call upon the Ministry to explore innovative ways to engage this group of youths. We should make it easier for them to contribute the little time and energy they have left for the society. This could be in the form of niche and specialised interest groups and encouraging voluntary work which relates to their profession or family. I am pleased to hear the Minister's announcement that the Ministry will reach out to companies and organisations to promote volunteerism.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-03-08 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  3. In addition, he enjoys engaging with his grandchildren. However, he still has adequate time and energy to work to be self-reliant and leads an active lifestyle. In view of the ageing population in the horizon, what are the plans of the Ministry in ensuring that our elderly are actively engaged economically? Older Workers in the Service Sector

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-03-08 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  4. Mr Chairman, I am most glad to note that the Ministry is looking into ensuring that there are sufficient job opportunities for the older workers in our society. I am also certain that the Workfare benefits would ensure sufficient support to look into their needs and benefit this group. However, much has also been said that, despite many of our elderly workers being motivated to work, the issue remains that they may not have the opportunity because of the mindset of some of the employers who may be unwilling to employ them. I would like to ask the Minister what measures the Ministry is taking to motivate such companies to change their mindset towards employing older workers. In Japan, they have a reemployment law which requires employers to offer reemployment to workers when they reach 60 years, not necessarily in the same jobs or at the same pay. Is there a possibility of such a measure being considered in Singapore? In addition, there has been feedback from the ground that there are many older Singaporeans, who are still fit and healthy, still keen on contributing to the economy. Quite a number of the elderly I have met related to me their desire to work beyond their retirement. They even suggested that the Government increase the compulsory retirement age. In particular, those who are still healthy and fit to work fear that their health condition may start to deteriorate once they stop working. In fact, many of the elderly see employability as a path towards sustaining an engaged, active, self-reliant and healthy lifestyle. Sir, a retiree told me that he enjoys being engaged by the activities of the Residents’ Committee. He frequently joins the karaoke sessions and activities organised by the Senior Citizens Committee.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-03-08 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  5. In fact, one of them mentioned to me that he used the time saved to watch a movie. The students also feed back that they could not appreciate the objectives or purpose of the community service activities that they participated in. Nevertheless, few of the students shared their invaluable experiences in the CIP, particularly those who were exposed to the suffering of others. There seems to be some inconsistency in the DVD of learning points experienced by these students. I am pleased however to share that one of the schools in my constituency, Bedok Town Secondary School, has recently reviewed its CIP to enhance efforts to facilitate students' learning and enrich their CIP experiences. I am privileged to be able to work with them in two of their new projects, namely, "Bringing total defence to the community" and "We care!" at Kaki Bukit. During both events I had a conversation session with the students after the programme. They candidly shared with me their learning experiences. One of the students, Ms Juliet Tan Shee Ling, a Secondary Three student, related her learning points from the programme as follows:- "We have learnt to express love and care through different methods and this is one of them. After seeing there with the residents' smiles on their faces, I realised that all our hard work was indeed worthwhile. We want to be loved and do not expect anything in return." Another student, Ms Saranjit Kaur mentioned the following:- "I've learnt that there are people in worse conditions compared to me. I feel that they need help, such as more health benefits and better housing." May I ask the Ministry on its plan to ensure that our students internalise the learning points of the CIP. How does the Ministry ensure that each school achieves the desired outcome of the CIP?

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-03-07 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  6. Sir, I would like to applaud the Ministry of Education's effort in promoting National Education among the young, as I truly believe that it is an important process in nation building. I am happy to note that the Ministry has taken steps to review it since August 2006. However, as reported in the media, Channel NewsAsia, on 17th January this year, a Singapore Polytechnic survey of 800 youths aged between 15 and 29 years old found that, despite having gone through National Education in school, 37% of Singaporean youth feel that they are not patriotic to the nation, and more than half would want to migrate overseas if given a chance. I would like to ask the Minister on the measures that the Ministry has in place to address these issues. Is there a national study conducted by the Ministry on the level of patriotism among our young? Sir, recently, I had the opportunity to conduct a session on youth involvement in community service and politics with more than 60 students. In the session, all the youths were given air time to share their views and experiences regarding their involvement and experiences in community service and politics. 2.15 pm I received consistent feedback from the majority of the students that there needs to be more effort to get students to internalise the learning points from the Ministry of Education community involvement programme. They shared with me all the different tricks they did to quickly complete their CIP tasks. These includes the famous coin changing trick where students would go to the bank to withdraw coins from their accounts, some in denomination of one cent to be inserted into the tin to complete their duty in the fund-raising effort as part of their CIP requirements.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-03-07 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  7. What are the plans of the Ministry to increase the participation rate in this scheme? Manpower Development

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-03-06 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  8. Sir, in recent years, we have seen various efforts by the Ministry of Health to make changes to the health system, particularly in the use of the Medisave to enhance its relevance to the changing needs of the society. These changes have been well received, in particular to those who have been following the news and are affected by health issues. I believe this has certainly enhanced the level of confidence in our health system. As one grows older and with an ageing population in the horizon, I think it is natural for an individual, as well as a society, to be concerned about health issues. As Singaporeans, we often hear about the 3M being one of our safety nets. However, during my block visits, I often meet elderly and low-income residents relating their concern about health matters. When I asked them about the concept of 3M and if they understood what Medisave, MediShield and Medifund meant to them, the majority of them did not have a full understanding about this. To go on further, I did ask more than 100 students the same question. I received similar answer and they told me they have not come to that stage yet. While many understand about Medisave, the majority of those I spoke to did not have a full understanding about Medishield and Medifund. Wherever possible, I try to explain to them as well as work with my grassroots leaders to disseminate the information to my residents. I would like to ask the Minister on the measures to enhance the awareness and understanding of the concept of the 3M, as well as individually, namely, Medishield, Medisave and Medifund. Are there any specific measures to reach out to the elderly and low-income Singaporeans? In addition, are our students well informed about such concepts as part of their school syllabus?

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-03-06 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  9. Sir, I would like to applaud the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources on the recent launch of the ABC Water Programme. I am excited and am looking forward to the transformation of Singapore's hydro-landscape to be integrated into our heartlands and HDB estates. This would also be aligned to the Prime Minister's call to remake Singapore into a vibrant global city of gardens and waters. I have met many Singaporeans who are equally pleased about this programme and they certainly look forward towards its realisation. As such, as a citizen, I would like to call upon all Singaporeans from all walks of life to support and take ownership of the ABC Water Programme. May I ask the Minister on how the programme would enhance the quality of life of Singaporeans from the various segments of the society. I would also like to ask the Minister on the measures that are in place to discourage people from littering and polluting the water bodies in Singapore and how successful has been these measures. What other measures are being planned to reach out to Singaporeans to keep our reservoirs, canals and rivers clean, and realise the objectives of the ABC Water Programme? Active, Beautiful and Clean (ABC) Waters Programme

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-03-06 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  10. In its attempt to rejuvenate the HDB estates, I would like to suggest that the HDB relook at the relevance and adequacy of the neighbourhood retail facilities in a typical HDB neighbourhood. If required, we should redevelop existing neighbourhood centres which have little relevance during the current context. We have seen changes in the demographics of residents in the different HDB estates in the last few decades. I would also like to suggest that the HDB carries out a retail space needs survey and analysis to better understand the expectations of the residents with regard to the demand of shopping facilities in the different towns and neighbourhood centres. Sir, in addition to our existing shopping landscape, the remaking of Orchard Road, the upcoming Integrated Resort in Marina Bay and new retail developments in the downtown area will provide an exciting and entertaining shopping destination in the central area. I believe that an exciting and vibrant retail landscape in the heartlands will add to the feast of shopping destinations for Singaporeans in this city-state of ours. Lift Upgrading Programme

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-03-03 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  11. Shoppers may give their shops at the neighbourhood centre a miss for the retail centres in this related town centre and new retail forms which are able to provide a large variety of goods and services, as well as a more entertaining shopping experience. Currently, we have already seen some shops in the neighbourhood centres having problems in attracting shoppers within their catchment. There are arguments which direct the problem to the shopowners who are not able to keep up with the changes in the expectation of the shoppers. During my walkabouts, I am surprised to observe that a few of the shopowners are operating the same way they used to operate a few decades ago. I believe that many of the MPs have been working closely with their merchant associations to liven up the area to enhance their attractiveness. However, we cannot deny that there is a limit to the amount of money and time a shopper has in his or her resource allocation. Thus, a shopper has to make a choice in getting his items or in his search for entertaining shopping destinations. May I ask the Minister on how will the makeover of HDB town centres and insertion of new retail concepts like IKEA, Courts and Giant affect the retail landscape in a typical HDB housing estate? In particular, how will this affect the retail landscape in the neighbourhood centre? Will the HDB be changing the retail planning parameters in its neighbourhood commercial space allocation? Will there be any exit strategy for these neighbourhood shopkeepers who would be competing with these new retail centres and big superstores? Are there any efforts to educate HDB neighbourhood centre shopowners on the business strategy in preparation for the changes in the retail landscape?

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-03-03 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  12. Sir, the Minister has briefed the House on plans to rejuvenate HDB housing estates. Many of my constituents are excited about this makeover plan. This would change the way we live, work and play. Ultimately, I believe this would certainly enhance the attractiveness of our heartlands and improve the quality of life for all. May I ask the Minister on the timeline for this makeover? And will this makeover also involve other land users within the HDB housing estates? Related to the issue of rejuvenation of HDB estates, in recent years, we have seen changes in the retail landscape in a few of our HDB towns. For example, we have seen the changes in the Toa Payoh Town Centre. We have also seen the NTUC Hypermarket in Ang Mo Kio. In Tampines, we have seen the emergence of new retail concepts in Singapore, with the development of IKEA, Courts and the upcoming Giant Hypermarket which is opening soon. 4.30 pm The renewal of town centre retail landscape and the new retail forms in Tampines have given shoppers in Singapore's heartland an up-to-date retail environment and new options for them to do their shopping. While these changes have given the shoppers additional and more attractive as well as entertaining shopping destinations, it will likely affect the shoppers' patronage pattern in Singapore. In a small city-state like Singapore with an efficient transport system, the attraction of newer, bigger and up-to-date retail centres which are easily accessible by public and private transport are likely to dominate the shoppers' choice of retail destinations.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-03-03 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  13. I believe that the morale and spirit of our people must never be broken, and we all have a part to play to support our people as best as we can and make Singapore the best liveable city. 5.06 pm

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-02-28 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  14. (In English): Mdm Deputy Speaker, despite the notion from some that there are areas or gaps that the Budget may not have addressed, I believe what is important is that the Government has put in place a systematic and innovative socialist concept of redistributing its wealth to meet the needs of its people. In addition, this Budget would ensure a competitive tax system for an economy like Singapore to brace and reap the benefits of the coming globalisation forces to our shores. These include the high potential of increased number of big spenders and tourists and their anticipated increased consumption of local goods and services due to the Integrated Resorts. Our tax rates would also make us an attractive place for investments and top talents to stay. We should continue to improve our comprehensive needs identification process, review and enhance our measures, assistance schemes and programmes to ensure that they continuously address the aspirations of all Singaporeans. I believe that providing the foundation for a thriving economy is the best handout for all Singaporeans. A thriving economy would provide the job opportunities and our workers would eventually enjoy the surpluses through increase in wages, year-end and performance bonuses. Mdm Deputy Speaker, I fully support the motion to approve the Government's financial policy for the Financial Year 2007/2008. I am most glad that this Budget would put us in good stead to face the challenges in the years ahead and would especially benefit Singaporeans. What I would hope to see more is the complementing "heartware" where all Singaporeans together would ensure that no one is left behind.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-02-28 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  15. This practice is necessary to ensure that we have sufficient funds to provide for times of emergency or when the world's or our country's economy becomes less vibrant. There is a Malay saying which says, "Be prepared for a rainy day." At the same time, we have to avoid the habit of excessive spending or spending more than the income earned. We have to think it through before being involved in use- *Cols. 2043-2044. first-pay-later schemes which will only land ourselves in debts for a long period of time. I have met a few residents in my constituency who are facing hardships as a result of debts from use-first-pay-later schemes. One of them shared with me that they did not think it through when deciding to purchase items from these schemes. With more debts, our ability to provide for our daily needs and also education expenses for our children will be affected. Education is the catalyst for a fast-paced development and progress for an individual, family, community, country and also civilisation. Therefore, we must invest for the future generation by making full use of schemes, such as the post-secondary education account. However, we must also spend quality time with our families and ensure that the development of values and personalities of our children will not be affected. Nothing is more precious than a happy and loving family with children who respect their parents and also others. We will together face all these challenges and I am confident that in future, we will be a community which is proud in celebrating our common progress and achievements with other Singaporeans. Mdm Deputy Speaker, allow me to continue my speech in English.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-02-28 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  16. This would definitely require 'heartware' of intense ground work in negotiating and buying over such employers especially those from the smaller companies. Lastly, as we move towards Workfare, there is also concern from some quarters that this may stimulate an increased motivation, especially among housewives between the ages of 35 and 45 to seek employment. This may cause additional pressure and strain to the family units, especially those with children or elderly parents. As such, we would need the necessary childcare and elderly support frameworks to meet the needs of these families. Mdm Deputy Speaker, please let me continue my speech in Malay. (In Malay): [For vernacular speech, please refer to Appendix A *. ] Mdm Deputy Speaker, this Budget strengthens the message in the President's Address delivered in Parliament that the country will take the necessary measures to lessen the effects of globalisation. This will also form the foundation of Singapore's Workfare culture, which is unique and will ensure lifelong employability and learning of our people. Similar to other citizens, a number of them in our Malay community also face hardships which are brought on by globalisation. However, I am relieved that we are now prepared to tackle this challenge. Recently, our Malay MPs have launched an initiative so that our Malay community will benefit from the globalisation era. We have to take up this opportunity and other opportunities, including those that are offered in this year's Budget, to overcome challenges posed by development and enhance the quality of life of our people. As we are happy in receiving opportunities, especially benefits and goodies from this Budget, we must continue to be thrifty and save up for the future. This must be part of our culture.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-02-28 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  17. For example, we could enhance the role of VWOs, self-help groups and other civic groups in this process. What is needed is a coordinated effort to reach out to the people, and if done effectively, would reflect the 'heartware' process of our nation. Workfare would put us in good stead to prepare our people for the future but 'heartware' would contribute to our nation building journey of a 'compassionate society that leaves no one behind'. Other challenges for Budget 2007 Madam, let me touch on other challenges of the Budget. Today newspaper, published on Thursday, 15th February 2007, reported that the WDA helped 22,125 unemployed people find jobs last year through programmes, such as Job Redesign. However, how do we reach out to those who despite the efforts of these organisations are still unable to find jobs or work because of old age or illness? They may not be eligible for Workfare. To address this issue, I would like to call upon Singaporeans to support the Prime Minister's call during his Chinese New Year message for greater strengthening of ties within the family especially to those with aged parents and/or family members with illness. The family is the most important basic unit of society. United, it is a formidable force that could withstand any challenges. Disunited, it causes sorrow, mistrust and its eventual breakdown would lead to an unnecessary burden to the society. I have also received feedback that, from the employer's point of view, increased benefits from the reduction of corporate tax may not be enough to attract them to hire elderly workers due to prevailing mindsets of our society. This, however, has to change and we should give our older workers a chance.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-02-28 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  18. In addition, we should continue to look at the relevance of the available housing options for the different segments of our society. 'Heartware' - a Nation Building Process Now, let me touch on the concept of "Heartware - a Nation Building Process". Madam, in defining our brand and vision of a global city, it is important that we rally our people towards this cause. How do we ensure that the people understand our vision, the directions that we are taking and getting them on board? How do we reach out to the people to better understand the many schemes and programmes that we have, especially to those in the lower end of our society? We have provided the material solution through this Budget and our master plans but I believe we need to complement this process with the heart and this could be done through the concept of 'Heartware'. Two weeks ago, two days before the Budget Statement, during my MPS, I met one of my residents who has been out of job for some time. During our conversation, I was surprised to find out that he was not aware of the upcoming Budget which I had expected to be the talk of the town. He was more concerned about getting a job and the immediate means needed to support his family. It was then that it dawned upon me that despite the wide publicity and the availability of our schemes and programmes, more can be done to reach out to this group of people which includes the aged, the disabled, low-income or even some segments of the middle income Singaporeans. How do we measure up to this challenge? I believe that the solution is to continue in our effort to expand the number of partners, as well as enhance the role of our existing partners in reaching out to the people.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-02-28 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  19. It also lays the foundation for our next generation to be equipped with the skills and knowledge and further cultivate our brand of an efficient and effective educated workforce. This would also send a signal to the world of our intent and directions to be a "vibrant global city" and our brand of nation building. It reinforces our belief of a clear NO to going down the road of a welfare state but a unanimous YES to a holistic national culture of continuous learning, ensuring employability and embracing globalisation - a process that goes beyond just by providing GST offset handouts. Besides just cultivating our workforce, I would also like to applaud our nation's vision and efforts in making Singapore a global city with distinction. I am most appreciative of the Ministry of National Development's plans to renew and rejuvenate our HDB estates to realise our vision of providing a "first-class living environment" for our people. I am pleased as well as excited to hear of the upcoming transformation of our heartlands with the building of park connectors, water front living concept and the latest modern facilities which would revolutionalise the way Singaporeans live, work and play. Imagine how far we have moved from the days when our people were living in kampong to where we are today. I believe that this holistic renewal process would certainly enhance the attractiveness of our heartlands and improve the quality of life for all. As our heartlands' landscape and the property issues evolve to meet the various needs of Singaporeans as well as contribute towards Singapore's progress, it is important that our housing policies are always kept relevant to meet these changing needs.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-02-28 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  20. As such, we have prepared our nation well to embrace globalisation, the phenomenon of the 21st century. Our education system is poised to prepare our people with the high skills and knowledge needed to manage the technology that symbolises the globalised world. We also have a sound fiscal policy with our economy in tandem with the global backdrop; the results and outcomes clearly reflected in the Minister's Budget speech. I am confident that we are ready to face the world in the many years to come. Challenges of globalisation But as the Minister has pointed out, globalisation, like in most developed economies, has brought about challenges for certain segments of our society; notably the low income and those structurally unemployed. We have identified this growing phenomenon, within which lay the basis of our inclusive approach of not leaving anyone behind. Among my constituents, there are those who are caught in the downside of globalisation. During my weekly MPS and block visits, I have met a segment of my residents with a diverse range of issues; those who would need jobs, financial assistance, in need of rental flats, upgrading and senior citizens issues, such as being disabled because of age. As such, it was with great eagerness that I looked forward to the unveiling of this Budget to know how my residents as well as those in the other constituencies would benefit from it as well as contribute towards the development of Singapore. The Budget - signal to the world Madam, I see this Budget as having a two-pronged reach approach. One that would put Singapore on solid ground to engage the world while the other puts in place a process that will manage the downside effects of globalisation.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-02-28 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  21. Mdm Deputy Speaker, I would like to begin my speech by echoing my parliamentary colleagues' calls in congratulating the Second Minister for Finance for his vision and farsightedness in delivering a Budget that would put Singapore in good stead to face the challenges of the 21st century. Similar to my colleagues who have spoken earlier, I too received positive feedback about the Budget Statement. Many people, I have met, mentioned that it is a Budget of a unique and world-class government. This Budget is consistent with the President's Address in November 2006, in which he touched on the effects of globalisation and how the challenge would be for our nation to respond bearing in mind the diverse needs of our people. I am glad that our response has been swift and that this Budget would not only spur Singapore towards greater heights and bridge the income divide but also lay the foundation of a uniquely Singaporean social culture - Workfare. Singapore Brand - The Workforce Singapore for the past 40 years has branded itself as a nation for its most valuable commodity - an educated and hardworking workforce. Its Government is also known to the world for being incorruptible, pragmatic and farsighted with a disciplined and prudent management approach of its economy. We have built our successes on this notion and our brand has been well received with many countries wanting to learn from our expertise and experience. As such, we welcomed the world to our shores and realised that the way to go was to build a spirit of cooperation whilst putting our nation in good standing with the world. We have also provided opportunities for our people to go beyond, realise their potential to achieve success and contribute at the world stage.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-02-28 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  22. Sir, will the Minister of State update the House on the rate of increase on the number of new supply of rental flats that are coming on board annually over the next three years and whether such a supply will be sufficient to cater for the demand of rental flats?

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-02-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  23. It is not easy to actually give support at that point in time because there are a lot of conditions that we have to look at and there are a lot of issues that we have to address. So, I think, what is more important also at the end of the day is to look at upstream measures to try to prevent some of these families from getting into such difficulties. One of the issues we realise is that families do not respond early enough when the banks start coming to them for payments. They often wait till the very end before they respond. We need to try to educate some of these families to make sure that they acknowledge the problems that they face and come forward when the banks start taking action against them. Secondly, it is to ensure that families are aware of implications of the actions that they take. When they take loans from the banks, for example, they must be aware of the financial policies that these banks operate in. We need to try to make sure that they understand the implications of this action that they take. Often times, most of these families take the bank loans without understanding what it means, when the rates will go up, and what happens after that. More importantly, what we are trying to do now is for HDB to try to educate these families at the onset of purchase. HDB officers will come forward and try to explain to these families that they actually understand what it means for them to take a bank loan and what it means for them should rates go up and, at the same time, HDB is working very closely with the banks to make sure that cases which are at risk of having their flats being repossessed are identified early, so that MCYS and other agencies can come forward to try to help these families.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-01-23 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD

  24. Sir, besides the measures highlighted by the Parliamentary Secretary, Dr Mohamad Maliki Osman, I am wondering whether the Ministry could also consider providing timely alternative public housing options to residents or families facing such circumstances, so that they can act as a buffer for them in facing the effects, in particular their children. Such measures would also help them to face the effects and at the same time, help them to rise again in the near future. Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman: Sir, we recognise that when families are faced with such crisis situation, they need support. Often times, it is very difficult to make a decision on the kind of support that is to be given to such families. As far as options are available, I think there are several options that are already in place. Certainly one is the subsidised rental flats that are available. And we look at the eligibility criteria and conditions of the family to see whether they are eligible or we can waive some of these conditions to help them. Secondly, it is the market rate rental that is available to some of these families. But the third option, which is an option that very few families tend to fall back on, is really the option of their own extended families. We have to recognise the fact that, at the end of the day, if, as a society, we want to uphold the policy or the value that the family is the first line of defence, we must take a look at where the families are in supporting some of these households who are actually in need at the point in time. Often times, when we look at the individual cases, there is family support that is available and we explore with them, but they tend to not want to go back to the family for support.

    OFFICIAL REPORT - 2007-01-23 · READ THE OFFICIAL RECORD