Nadia Ahmad Samdin
Singapore
“Other exchanges have pursued dual, listings and cross-market linkages. The experience has been mixed. While these frameworks generally reduce friction and improve access, they have not always translated into influence. Some companies eventually opt out of dual listing as a hitch.”
“Thank you, Speaker, and I thank the Minister as well. I have just two points, mainly related to the site-specific studies, as it appears that this is a very key part of the process, and I am not sure if I missed it.”
“Second, singles up till now can typically only purchase 2-room, Flexi or resale flats, given that two-room flexi flats are highly sought after by both singles and seniors, can the Ministry consider expanding the options?”
“Thank you, Chairman. I have three follow-up questions. The first is regarding food resilience and the initial plans for the Lim Chu Kang Agri-District. Could the Minister of State please elaborate on that. The second, I am very glad to hear of the top-up to the ACT Fund.”
“Could the Ministry share how aquacultural farms are transitioning towards climate resilience systems, such as hybrid or re-circulating agricultural technologies as well as the take-up rates of support schemes, the extent of transition across the sector and any key challenges in scaling the adoption of such technologies.”
“The recently published Green Skills Report defines what are green jobs and green skills, finding that such competencies are being integrated into mainstream roles, not just specialist jobs, with about 5,000 workers projected to be needed by 2030.”
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“Finally, the new section 22 empowers a judge on an application by the Attorney-General or the Council to order a lawyer (non-practitioner) to submit to a medical examination by a registered medical practitioner to determine whether the lawyer (non practitioner)'s fitness to practise provisionally has been impaired by a physical or mental condition. The Council will also be able to direct a lawyer (non-practitioner) to stop practising provisionally until he or she has submitted to a medical examination. As we understand, mental health is a continuum. The Government is also generally very cautious about compulsion to submit to medical examinations and the seeking of treatment unless an individual is at risk of harm to themselves or to the public. For greater clarity, could the Ministry describe what sort of circumstances will warrant such an examination and how will the Council or Attorney-General determine when one is not suitable to practise? What are some conditions that will be considered an impairment and how can an individual who has recovered come back to practise? In conclusion, Sir, I am glad that the amendments facilitate a greater depth of exposure and experience and provide more career pathways for young lawyers. While the changes bring our system closer in alignment to other jurisdictions' standards and guidelines, greater clarity is necessary for aspiring and current law students. This is even more so as the recent changes to the Part B examinations have sparked distress among students. Previously, students studied seven compulsory subjects and two elective subjects. The latest revision sees students completing six modules across a wide breadth of 31 topics.”
“This practice not only creates additional stress but also questions on whether it is fair to only account for two years of school results in the process. However, I would like to clarify on the specific implementation details of the moratorium. Will firms be restricted to only accepting applications in particular months or will students be bound by their year of study for application? How will the Ministry enforce this amongst firms upon implementation and what are the avenues for students and firms to voice out any unfair practices that they may observe? Third, on the permission for trainees to complete up to three months of the practice training period at approved in-house legal departments of non-law practice entities. Given the broad range of opportunities there are, I can see how this would be an exciting option. For example, I was grateful for the chance previously to intern in ESPN, which married my interest in media and the law and helped me understand commercial needs. Although this expands the opportunities for trainees and also provides a potential pipeline of support for these companies, I would like to ask if there are any criteria imposed to ensure that trainees can gain an enriching experience comparable to their peers who are practising with law firms. Is there an estimate number of how many of such departments will be available to cater to potential demand? What will the allowance guidelines be for trainees who choose to pursue this path?”
“I, for one, could not have completed my law degree without support from MENDAKI and a Singapore Management University (SMU) scholarship in my first year. It was only after receiving my first pay cheque as a young lawyer after my training could I finally breathe and contribute to my family after all my parents' sacrifices. Most law firms also do not charge clients for the work done by trainees. Should this practice and trend persist with the extension, the current allowance renumerated may not be tenable for trainees and law firms over a long period of time. In comparison with other jurisdictions, the Law Society in the UK and Bar Standards Board recommend that trainees be paid approximately $2,800 to $3,600 in London. Furthermore, trainees presently do not have annual or sick leave accounted for during their practice training. Guidelines under the SILE also necessitate trainees to make up for any leave taken. This may not be sustainable for the health and well-being of trainees in the long run. Further, relying on a checklist and increasing the length of the training contract alone may not enrich the quality and rigour of the training experience. I would like to ask the Minister if there will be specific guidance and support given to law firms to ensure that the training period is a meaningful one, both for the employers and students. Finally, with a longer training period, firms will need to spend more money to hire trainees. Will there be support in place for smaller firms who are unable to cope with the increased costs? Secondly, on the introduction of a moratorium, this is not the first time this is being considered. During interactions with young law students, they shared the immense pressure and competition to secure a training contract way ahead of graduation.”
“Upon the completion of training contracts, the Committee also found the trend of attrition amongst young lawyers due to unsustainable work practices, unsuitability of the individual for legal work and the absence of alternative pathways. This trend was cast in the spotlight again in 2021. I am heartened by the Government's concern and efforts to work together with industry and schools to improve retention and quality of training. To quote the International Bar Association (IBA) president, "The young lawyers of today are the senior leaders of tomorrow." I have four clarifications. First, the extension of the practice training period from six to 12 months. This extension brings us closer to training contracts in some other jurisdictions, for example, 12 months of pupilage in the UK before one practises as a barrister, and 24 months of qualifying work experience in up to four firms for solicitors and 12 months in New South Wales. The extended timeframe, on one hand, gives trainees more time to oversee cases that cannot be completed in six months and grants firms more time to assess performance for a more informed retention decisions based on mutual fit. However, in my dialogues and engagements with young law students, some have expressed concerns. Given the rising cost of living, coupled with potential debt after university degrees, and another $6,000-plus required for the Part B examinations, some are worried about the quantum of the allowance if the training is lengthened. Figures between $1,000 and $2,500 have been shared as a rough quantum of allowance during practice training. In particular, this can be challenging for adult learners or students facing financial challenges.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of the Bill. Sir, a 2022 report from the International Bar Association revealed that out of 3,000 lawyers aged 40 and under surveyed around the world, 54% reported that they were somewhat likely or highly likely to move to a new workplace and 20% were thinking about leaving the profession entirely. In Singapore, one in seven junior lawyers stopped practising in 2021. While unfortunately some prefer to carelessly put this down to zoomers being not as hungry as those in generations before or feeling less pressure to earn an income, to quote the late and great former Law Society president and unofficial King of Singapore according to LinkedIn, Mr Adrian Tan, "It may be tougher to be a young lawyer now than at any time in history. They work at an intense pace and are on call night and day." I remember once getting a request from a client to set up a virtual call quickly at about 1.00 am and, on another occasion, leaving the office around 3.00 am after waiting for a turn of documents from the other counsel, only to come back some three hours later to facilitate a deal signing during an auspicious early morning fengshui hour. Yet, many still want to join the noble profession and numbers grow steadily. Between 2019 and 2021, Singapore saw an average of 394 university graduates obtaining a first degree in law. As of August 2023, the Law Society reports 6,512 practitioners. The CPTL was convened in 2016, as shared by many hon Members earlier, to conduct a review of the professional training regime for trainee lawyers. The Committee outlined various challenges, including intense competition for practice training contracts, perceived unfair recruitment practices and a lack of consistency in training standards across firms.”
“Thank you, Speaker, and I thank the Senior Minister of State. I have three follow-up supplementary questions, bearing in mind the more long-term protection and solution to this. Really, the intention is to understand the structured approach. First, experts mentioned that there are very few studies to understand the behaviour of crocodiles, especially locally. Is that something that we are looking more into doing? Second, thank you for sharing the steps which NParks took. Were other stakeholders consulted during this process? For example, animal welfare groups (AWGs) and things like that. The third question is, are groups such as Our Wild Neighbours looking to do more to bring more awareness about such animals so beyond, for example, otters and macaques? Are we also looking into doing more for crocodiles as well as tapirs which we had recently seen in September as well?”
“With people of all ages, various backgrounds, faiths, all over the world, using our voice some in protest, some in prayer, donations, to converse, to listen, to bear witness to this crisis. We do what we can and here in this Chamber, we understand the desire for statehood and safety of the Palestinians and the Israelis. We use our voices to call for the indiscriminate killing of innocent civilians to end. And I end with a solemn appeal for parties to abide by the humanitarian truth for an immediate cessation of the violence in Gaza and the West Bank and for justice to prevail.”
“Rabbi Mordechai Abergel and Mufti Dr Nazirudin Nasir address each other with respect, express condolences and prayers for innocent lives taken unjustly and have called for a permanent peace. Even as emotions run high, let us not give in to Islamophobia, anti-Semitism or other forms of discrimination in our places of worship, our schools, our workplaces and society. Sir, our peace is tested in less obvious ways too, where feelings run so deep that friendships are broken over how and when people choose to use their voice. Peace breaks down when anger consumes and we feel that we cannot communicate. Let us hold space for each other. It is important for us Singaporeans to grow in our ability to seek understanding, step up quickly and communicate in managing a crisis while always having our nation's interests at our core. In particular, how can we encourage safe outlets for the expression, processing and validation of emotions and the promotion of understanding even when we disagree? How can our leaders at all levels in our communities and places of worship be better equipped to guide on such matters, which have implications on our shores? As the front lines of conflict are increasingly digital, how do we care for, equip and soothe a society where many spend approximately seven hours a day online. Sir, this conflict has exposed how untenable this current situation in Israel and Palestine is and its impact on the rest of the world. In this fractious world, Singapore is a small voice. It is easy to believe that we do not have a stake or that we cannot do much. Our sovereignty and safety are tied to a fair rules-based world order and a common humanity. In the past few weeks, we have seen the good in humanity as well.”
“We each desire the freedom to express our different identities, but this means in turn that we are committed to seeing that others with different beliefs can express their identities authentically as well. As an advisor to the recently concluded Harmony Circles Refresh work group together with Minister of State Alvin Tan, I know that harmony does not occur by chance. We work for it every day as a people, through compromise and acceptance and by learning from each other what makes our beliefs so secret? We treasure the safety of living in peace with others whose beliefs are different from ours while being united as one Singapore. This peace is made possible in no small part due to the selfless commitment to inter-faith harmony from our religious leaders across different faiths. Mutual respect and the willingness of these leaders to stand in solidarity create a quiet but steadfast example. Notably, in the Inter-Religious Organisation of Singapore, 10 faiths, such as Buddhism, Islam, Christianity and Judaism, regularly come together and exchange views. In a world where rhetoric and sound bites go viral on social media and longer messages run the risk of getting twisted, where popularity is currency and common ground is the first casualty in a fight, it takes courage to stand for peace and conviction to nurture it, even when the position may be hard to swallow. To this end, I am grateful for the discernment and compassion of our faith leaders in society. The exchange of letters between faith leaders and Singapore during times like these demonstrate commitment to protect the precious collective peace that we share.”
“Many Singaporeans including our youths have asked about the Singapore Government's views on the killing of civilians in Gaza, as well as other immediate actions, that the Government can take to try and stop the violence before it is too late. (In English): Sir, on 27 October at the UN General Assembly, Singapore voted for UN resolution ES-10/21. Our stand is consistent with the principles that are necessary for Singapore survival. In navigating tensions, we do not unequivocally support one side over another. We advocate for an inclusive, rules-based, multilateral order as a system to have recourse to when necessary. But, Sir, even as we have voted in support of resolution over the years including for statehood and against illegal settlements, it appears that little progress has been made. We find ourselves in deepening divides with worsening intensities of the violence. What more can be done to enforce the rules which give us order? The Government does not act alone in promoting peace and providing humanitarian aid. Two weeks ago, I and around a hundred Singaporeans from all walks of life, spend time with Humanity Matters, packing about eight tonnes worth of relief supplies to Gaza. A team of four has followed the aid to Egypt donating it to the Palestine Red Crescent. And I pray for the safe return. This is our Singaporean way; not just speaking about harmony during times of peace, but being brave through our differences and rallying together during times of crisis around our common humanity. Sir, when we speak of peace, it is not about the absence of conflict, but what prevails in spite of the differences. Here, in Singapore, which has been ranked as one of the most religiously diverse countries in the world, we know this intimately.”
“6 million within two weeks, and other community-based efforts by groups, such as Chendol Kita and Fabmarket, which have used their own platforms to contribute to local efforts. However, humanitarian aid alone is not enough to repair and rebuild a community. To achieve lasting peace for all parties, a long-term solution should be worked out. In Singapore, we are also aware that harmony is something that is difficult to achieve and very fragile, as it requires sacrifices and an understanding that is built over decades. As a small nation, we must uphold integrity and be pragmatic because this will determine our future. At the UN General Assembly, Singapore supported the right of the Palestinian people to a homeland and the two-state solution that was agreed by both sides through negotiations. We have also voted in favour of Palestine in various resolutions, including those in 1967 after the Six-Day War, in 1997 and 2003 against Israel in connection with the construction of the Har Homa settlement, and demanded that Israel stop the construction of the West Bank Wall, and the latest on October 27, for an immediate ceasefire, so that humanitarian aid can be extended. To quote the UN Chief's speech, we are aware that the Hamas attack did not happen in isolation. Although many have mentioned the October 7 incident, we will still remember the sufferings of the people of Gaza from October 6 and the days before that. Although we acknowledge that the Hamas attack on October 7 in Israel is wrong, we mourn the loss of lives in Gaza and the West Bank and feel the injustice. Sir, the attack does not warrant collective punishment being inflicted upon the Palestinian people.”
“The international community must direct resources to invest in peace, so as to manage tensions at all stages of the conflict curve, involve independent parties with the conviction to see this through, prioritising local communities before it is too late. This is not the first time that violence has broken out and the result of these prolonged cycles is a gradually reduced confidence and support for a long-lasting two-state solution, according to public polls among both Israeli and Palestinian people. Some wonder, "Is it even possible now? Can mistrust and injustice turn to peace? Can people in positions of power in Gaza and Israel come to the table to negotiate for peace with open hearts?" The international community must direct resources to invest in peace so as to manage tensions at all stage of the conflict curve – involve independent parties with the conviction to see this through, priorisiting local communities, before it is too late. Sir, in Malay, please. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] The crisis in Gaza is deteriorating due to rising tensions. Many people around the world, including those in Singapore, have come forward to appeal for the violence to stop immediately. Apart from making comments, sharing videos and showing photos on social media, Singaporeans have also banded together to act collectively. We witnessed how Singaporeans from all walks of life have joined hands in efforts to provide humanitarian assistance – from supplying medical paraphernalia with Humanity Matters on 29 October, to the special mass prayer session organised by Pergas and mosques across Singapore, as well as a fundraising campaign by Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation (RLAF) which managed to collect more than S$4.”
“There is a lot to unpack, but a few things are clear. First, the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza needs to be addressed urgently. The Gaza health ministry has released figures that thousands have died, even more injured. Refugee camps, hospital areas and schools have not been spared from airstrikes. The UN relief agency, UNRWA and Committee to Protect Journalists shared that eight workers and media personnel have been killed. Civilians in Gaza were restricted access to food, water, electricity, communications, and aid was prevented from entering. Second, even in a fight, there are rules. International humanitarian law, as set out in the Geneva Conventions and similar treaties, has been forged from the bitter ashes of world wars as a practical balance between the security and military requirements of a state, and the protection of humans. Yes, Sir, we agree that any and all violence and kidnapping of innocent civilians are wrong. But while a state has a right to self-defence, this must be tempered by proportionality. Parties must distinguish between combatants and civilians, and many have asked: is the loss of so many innocent non-military personnel proportionate? When will the collective punishment against the Palestinian people end? Third, both sides must work towards a durable peace with the support of the international community. This is not the first time that violence has broken out. The result of these prolonged cycles is a gradually reduced confidence and support for a long-lasting two-state solution, according to public polls among both Israeli and Palestinian people. Some wonder, is it even possible now? Can mistrust and injustice turn to peace? Can people in positions of power in Gaza and Israel come to the table to negotiate for peace with open hearts?”
“"I am not truly free if I am taking away someone else's freedom. Just as surely as I am not free when my freedom is taken from me. For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others" – Nelson Mandela. Sir, today I rise in support of the Motion and add my voice in this Chamber to express my sorrow for the loss of innocent lives and the injustice of the cycles of violence, even as the Israel-Palestine crisis rages on. This is a fight in distant lands, but here, in Singapore, many feel empathy and distress as the news, photos and videos fill our social media feeds and our daily consciousness. If you are truly engaged with the breadth of society, you will see a range of views and levels of awareness. A number of our youths, in particular, have written to me. They seek an outlet to use their voices to do something, anything, for they cannot unsee the suffering in Gaza, they cannot reconcile it with our life as per normal and our precious peace here, and we cannot sit silent. It is reported that almost half of the Gazan population is aged 18 and under, and we feel for the mothers who have lost their children, for the men who have buried their brothers in mass graves, for the elderly who are too frail to move, and for the children whose normalcy is rubble and dust. These divides arose many years, even before 7 October 2023, and have no easy answers. One might point to a time in history and someone else would go back a few years for a different view. It is hard to find common ground. Yes, there are religious bearings, but there are Christians, Jews and Muslims on both sides of the border. We cannot ignore the political, historical, land and security dimensions.”
“It is crucial to ensure that the process is simple, efficient and friendly to encourage a thriving people-sector, where like-minded people passionate about causes, such as the environment, mental health and youth empowerment, can exchange ideas, advocate for their concerns and take action. I hope more can be done on a wider level to support groups, such as these, who choose to take the step of registration, including potentially considering a new type of legal entity, for such cause-based ground-up initiatives. Notwithstanding the above, Mr Speaker, Sir, I support the Bill.”
“Further, I appreciate the implementation of a one-stop portal for societies, which are also charities, to submit their annual submissions in streamlining the process. Does the Ministry have a timeline, as many are looking forward to this one-stop portal? Organisations, such as the Singapore Cancer Society, Silver Ribbon Singapore and Cornerstone Community Services, are societies with charitable and social purposes that do a lot for our community here in Singapore. Sir, one final point of clarity to ask the Ministry regarding office-bearers. It is important for societies to be governed well by their office-bearers. Are there any opportunities for office-bearers to receive governance training or any minimum age and experience required to be an office-bearer of a society? On a small note, I also note that individuals with prior convictions may not be permitted to hold office in societies. Given our push in advocating for second chances – and many of us have seen the hard work and determination of ex-offenders who have turned over a new leaf and want to support others in turn, for example, as a desistor – what possibilities are there and channels for such individuals to become leaders of such groups, for a fair assessment of their suitability? To conclude, Sir, many such organisations first start off as an informal smaller ground-up initiative and later put forth an application under this Act, because a form of formal recognition as a legal entity is helpful before they can access grants and funding for their organisation to be sustainable in the long term. Choosing to register as a legal entity, in this case, as a society, is no easy step as many of the members are volunteers with full-time jobs.”
“While it is, of course, critical for the system to have sufficient checks and balances and hold malicious actors accountable, and I agree with the overall ethos of the Bill, it is also important to communicate with potential applicants and ensure that their applications are not being pre-emptively concluded. I understand that in the last five years, an average of five applications were rejected yearly. I would thus like to ask the Minister of State about the scope and interpretation of "purposes prejudicial to public peace, welfare or good order" and any key principles of those which are likely to be rejected and hope that this can be outlined for greater clarity. Secondly, the Bill specifies the Registrar's ability to request certain societies to amend their rules as a condition for registration. Failure to do so can impede an application. Section 11A of the Societies Act outlines the grounds on which the Registrar considers for an application to change the rules – I understand that this would be similar to my previous point – would be contrary to Singapore's national interests or security, would be prejudicial to public peace, welfare, good order or contrary to the Act. However, these are fairly broad and it would be helpful if the Minister of State could provide greater clarity on the criteria. How far will the Government intervene in recommending the language or the rules to be included? Thirdly, as we continue our digitalisation pursuit. I am also heartened to note the amendments which cater for the electronic transmission of service documents. Such amendments relate to enhancing convenience and bring greater accessibility.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of the Bill. The Registry of Societies' website says that the earliest piece of legislation relating to societies was the Dangerous Societies Suppression Ordinance in 1869. It had the aim of eliminating secret societies in the Straits Settlement. [Mr Speaker in the Chair] But since then, the types of societies we see has expanded, as small ground-up initiatives and small groups come together and formalise – a society being seen as a simpler and more straightforward framework of governance and reporting, than say a private limited entity. Based on a simple search in the past year between October 2022 and 2023, we have seen over 100 societies registered, serving various sectors, such as the community, hobbyists, arts and sports. Many form a dynamic part of our social fabric. I have three brief points on the Bill. Firstly, the amendments relating to the automatic registration route, which will now permit the Registrar to seek further information and reject an application in the event where the society, if registered, is, and I quote, "likely to be used for unlawful purposes or for purposes prejudicial to public peace, welfare or good order in Singapore, or contrary to Singapore's national interests or security." Sir, the Automatic Route allows for expediency and administrative ease. It will appear to some that, given the amendments, perhaps we should have just one route that is non-automatic and the Registrar can ask the relevant questions if necessary.”
“While we talk about the amendments in this Bill, I would like to take a moment to encourage discourse on attitudes towards taxation while staying away from bogeyman tactics. As we renew our social compact, as part of the Forward Singapore efforts, we need to have more conversations to build consensus on questions that are fundamental to how we tax different segments and distribute resources equitably. To do so, we should do two things. First, aim for greater and more accessible discourse around tax that makes it relevant to the everyday person. Second, we should aim to clearly communicate the benefits and trade-offs of changes to tax policy, to ensure that Singaporeans better understand how these changes affect our shared future. Sir, I support the Bill.”
“Domestic donations should also be done in a sustainable way such that charitable organisations have the funding visibility for a longer-term horizon to grow their missions and reach in serving our community and are encouraged to try new, innovative ways to tackle complex emerging social challenges. I would also like to ask how many qualifying local intermediaries there are. How long will it take for local intermediaries to qualify and what support is available to fund capacity building of social sector organisations? It would also be important to ensure that legislation such as fund regulations and charity laws remain clear and keep up with the times to enable the structuring of such new models. In Singapore, most will agree that our collective contributions should enable us to create a society which uplifts each and every citizen to thrive, regardless of where we start in life. In Budget 2023, Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong reaffirmed his commitment to this ideal. However, in an inflationary environment with rising cost of living, many feel the pinch. The execution of increasing taxes when it comes to real life and how we can and should go about raising funds to pay for increased support is often less straightforward. In conversations, many often point to free healthcare and education systems in some other parts of the world. But less spoken off, is the higher tax rates that come with it. The Government debt or the culture which has been developed in these jurisdictions over time, leads to each individual seeing it as their responsibility to invest in their own society. This includes not just businesses, as corporate citizens, but everyday people too.”
“Alongside the broadening of the scope of eligible investments to include blended finance structures to recognise concessional capital, which aims to strengthen Singapore's position as a regional philanthropy hub. This will also catalyse more investments into worthwhile social and climate projects. In order to achieve this status, our philanthropic framework must tackle key issues of our time, which are typically global in nature and go beyond our shores. For example, climate change and also at greater scale, for example, wider populations in Southeast Asia and not just Singapore. Our strategic trusted and neutral position in this region is prime for such operations. Sir, we are home to more than half of Asia's family offices. The growth in the number of family foundations, has generally followed the growth in family offices and I agree with the push towards encouraging family offices to anchor their giving operations in Singapore. While allowing tax deduction for overseas donations via qualifying local intermediaries shifts the longstanding principle of tax deductions for donations exclusively benefiting the Singapore community is an understandable step, I hope that we can put in further measures to proactively strengthen the nexus between family offices and our local charitable organisations. This is to ensure that firstly, overseas donations do not overshadow the proportion of domestic donations from these family offices. Secondly, the domestic donations are given in a way that are meaningful – demonstrating and understanding of local organisations' needs and that of the clients that they serve.”
“I would like to ask, what is the timeline for the IRAS e-tax guide to be made available for greater regulatory clarity? Finally, what type of firms, in terms of industry and size, does the Government expect these changes to affect the most? The second area of discussion is regarding the EIS. The EIS is an investment to further secure Singapore's position as an Innovation Hub as it helps companies defray risks when undertaking R&D. Due to the long incubation period for innovation and uncertainty, firms may think long and hard before committing upfront resources to innovation. Could the Senior Minister of State share more about the current restraints and constraints faced by companies undertaking capability development activities and how the EIS amendments aim to mitigate them and lower the barriers for smaller companies, in particular, which may be cash-strapped? From a tax utility perspective, what are the factors are considered important by the Government for the R&D ecosystem to grow sustainably beyond subsidies? Are there any existing schemes or new ones which the Government is intending to create or to enhance domestic human capital capable of executing the R&D that the EIS hopes to support? Finally, what has the take-up rate been for similar existing schemes and beyond just utilisation, what other success indicators have we tracked for such schemes that encourage R&D and the development of IP? Third, Sir, our social spending needs are growing and I am heartened by the Government's efforts to enhance our social compact through growing our tax space. I also note the launch of the PTIS and the relevant clauses 30 and 31 in the amendment Bill.”
“Thank you, Mr Speaker, Sir. I would like to declare my interest as counsel and senior project leader of a social impact intermediary that works with various stakeholders, including the philanthropic sector. Sir, the way our Government manages to collection and expenditure of its revenues sits at the centre of how taxation interfaces with society. There are few ways we can think about taxes. As the mechanism, it is the liver by which a government collects and redistributes resources to different segments of society, including the vulnerable and those who need it most. On a strategic level, tax policy is also an instrument that pools our collective resources to help us shape the society that we wish to see as a people. It is also the means by which we provide incentives for industries to move towards and sectors to grow. At its core, good tax policy can help foster the balance between social harmony and economic progress. There are three broad areas I would like to discuss regarding the Bill. First, on taxing gains from the sale or disposal of foreign assets that are received in Singapore by businesses without economic substance. This will bring us in line with international standards. I would like to ask the Senior Minister of State for greater clarity on three things. First, MOF has shared that it would not be practical to prescribe in legislation, minimum thresholds to establish economic substance, given the variety of business model and skill of operations. Is the approach going to be on a case-by-case basis? What are some of the key principles that would distinguish businesses with economic substance and those without? I also understand that further guidance will be provided in an IRAS e-tax guide.”
“Thank you very much, Deputy Speaker. I thank the Ministry for the efforts in blue conservation. I understand that environmental impact assessments (EIAs) will only be conducted if the technical agencies consider that the impact may be significant. Could the Senior Minister of State please elaborate on what is the threshold of impact or some of the criteria that are considered significant? And what is the required frequency of ongoing environmental monitoring which is in place for such sea spaces?”
“Thank you, Mdm Deputy Speaker. Firstly, I would like to thank the Senior Minister of State for his reply and also the recent SFA announcement that it will defer putting out a tender on sea spaces for fish farms around Pulau Satumu and Pulau Jong until further environmental studies are conducted in consultation. It is a great science-based approach. Two follow-up supplementary questions. In terms of the types of aquaculture activities being planned, does the Ministry have a view as to whether (a) close-looped recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) farms which may have less impact on the surrounding ecosystems are preferred versus (b) an open-cage sea farming, which, on the other hand, may be more energy-intensive, is a better way forward for Singapore? Second, while it is time-consuming, I do think that consultation is ultimately a trust-building exercise. But beyond experts, it is also really important to get the public involved and the buy-in from Singaporeans towards the Singapore Food Story and where Singapore food comes from. So, how can the Ministry better educate and consult with the public so that more are aware about Singapore local produce?”
“Deputy Speaker, I thank each of the Ministers for addressing the questions raised, including those which affect their personal and public lives. I would like to follow up on Second Minister for Law Mr Edwin Tong's Statement relating to SLA's processes, in particular, the preparatory works for the rental of the two properties and ongoing maintenance for Black and Whites. Can I clarify how SLA scopes and awards contracts to different entities from consultants to contractors for the restoration and maintenance works for both categories of Black and Whites? For example, is there a pool of pre-approved vendors? What is the process by which SLA designates what works will be borne by SLA and which works will then be at the tenants' own cost? I would also appreciate particularly if the Minister can address allegations that the contract for works relating to the properties was awarded to a firm of which Minister Shanmugam's son serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), called Livspace.”
“As more people become involved in society, there will definitely be different views among them. The PAP does not shy away from different views and does not say that we have a monopoly on ideas. We hold many dialogues at various levels and welcome constructive discussions. However, good leadership and good politics should involve a willingness to raise difficult issues and explain its merits and disadvantages before making decisions in the best interests of Singapore and Singaporeans based on the facts available at that time. Sir, that is good politics and good leadership. (In English): Mr Speaker, Sir, I support the Motion.”
“During a mass iftar recently in Ang Mo Kio, I teared up when a grandmother gently patted my face and told me she will pray for me to continue to have the strength to perform my duties. Many of the elderly attendees like her faced mobility challenges and required assistance from a caregiver and needed to use personal mobility devices, wheelchairs or walking canes. With the average life expectancy in Singapore being above 80 years, it is important for us to look into the quality of life in our seniors’ golden years. In order to do so, we must encourage more seniors to take care of their health and incorporate healthier nutrition into their lifestyles. We should raise more awareness among them that they should not be afraid to undergo early health screening because they will be able to take steps, if necessary, to take care of themselves and their loved ones. On youths in our community, I have confidence and faith in their capabilities. It is not only student leaders or scholars who are doing us proud, but everyday youths among us who are taking the time out to be active citizens. For example, during this Ramadan, there were various ground-up efforts by informal volunteer networks of students like the IM Volunteers Network SG, faith groups and motorcycle enthusiasts, for example, Kazoku Riders, who spend time to make volunteering a part of their life. We must continue to find ways to support such groups. In addition to us moving forward in a post-COVID-19 world, we must ensure that all walks of society are involved in building the future that they want. As the Malay saying goes, "Climb the hill together, descend the valley together" – we must continue embodying this spirit so that each generation can achieve an equitable outcome.”
“For example, two National University of Singapore (NUS) students, Tim and Jen, who volunteer their time on the ground by joining a National Parks Board's (NParks) working group targeting human wildlife conflict, to interview residents, conduct overnight surveys and actively participated in an Otter Relocation Exercise throughout the night. We are facing new unexpected challenges, and I am grateful to youths such as them, who are willing to take ownership in finding workable solutions. But youths cannot do it alone, I have called many times for more space towards ensuring meaningful youth participation not just for quotas or at dialogues. If we want youth to show up, we must also trust them and make space at the table for youths to have a say and stake in their futures. As the co-chair of People's Action Party (PAP)'s MAB Muda, it has been my privilege to meet youths from all walks of life with a variety of interests. For International Women's Day this year, two of our youth activists, Anatasha and Nadia interviewed everyday Malay/Muslim Singaporean women to give their stories, values and thoughts or voice via an interview series called "Dengar Suara Kita". They ran this independently and I am very impressed by their conviction to take quiet action on this matter close to their hearts. Sir, in Malay, please. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] This Ramadan has been a meaningful one for our community. For the first time since COVID-19, we witnessed our community coming together to break their fast and perform their prayers at the mosques with family and friends. In the earlier part of my speech, I highlighted some of my concerns and suggestions relating to seniors and youths.”
“In Chengsan-Seletar, we are building on our efforts over the past two years to implement strategic plans for our seniors using a three-pronged approach, based on the theory of change, to increase the awareness of available resources and to remind our seniors they are not alone. Early detection and screening, creating social support networks and making our elderly feel valued. We are training eyes and ears on the ground through partnerships among postmen and postwomen with SingPost, hawkers and trained psychological first-aid responders, running our 100x Seniors Club to encourage them to come out of their homes and targeting to launch Calm Corners in each of our residential zones to test out evidence-based programmes by ground-up initiatives. Through all this, I hope to remind our seniors that they are not alone and that they are valued. Third, our youths would lead us into the future, by population, youths are approximately 25% of the residential population today, but 100% of our future. Youths today are dealing with a more challenging landscape as they come of age, confronted with the climate crisis, fierce competition both in terms of placements for local Institutions of Higher Learning (IHLs) and the global talent pool for work. Many also feel sandwiched. However, despite all these challenges, they are the ones who will lead Singapore into the brighter futures. We must invest enough in our youths to empower them to take us forward or face the consequences of them leaving for other pastures. Our youths are equal parts resourceful, creative and resilient and willing to put their hand up and be counted on.”
“Research has also shown that chronic social isolation increases the risk of mental health challenges like depression, anxiety and substance abuse, as well as chronic conditions such as high blood pressure. It also raises the risk of dementia. Other advanced economies are grappling with this issue too. In 2021, Japan appointed a minister for loneliness. The UK has had a ministerial lead on loneliness since 2017, later announcing its inaugural loneliness strategy in 2018 and a loneliness engagement fund, which provided grants between £15,000 and £50,000 to organisations, which could engage at-risk groups. Here, in Singapore, an Interagency Taskforce on Mental Health and Well-being was set up in 2021 and it was announced in 2022 that an SG Mental Well-being Network was formed, and that the establishment of a permanent National Well-being Office was being considered. I am grateful that we are moving the needle and hope that we consider more support along the mental health spectrum, including considering the availability of insurance that does not discriminate against mental health conditions, lessening the load on Institute of Mental Health (IMH) as an acute hospital and offering more varied inclusive options of care for the community as well as for those who care for them. A whole-of-nation approach is needed: peer support by friends, friendly neighbours by our people, responsible businesses to adapt and hire inclusively and targeted direction of resources by the Government. We may not be able to save everyone but we must try.”
“At this point in history, in order to meet climate goals, we must nurture a collaborative environment that truly embraces co-creation, cultivate solutions that restores not extracts and tries new ways in order to ensure a habitable planet for generations to come. Second is caring for our seniors. A whole of nation approach is not just important for climate change but also for issues like mental health. I was heartened to hear the commitment to tackle loneliness and social isolation in Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's speech. Today, ageing research in Singapore and Japan has shown that lonely older adults not only lived at least three years less than their peers, but also spent less of their remaining life in good health. As of 2020, about 10% of Singapore residents aged 60 years and above lived alone. In their older years women are more likely to live alone than men. As a Member of Parliament (MP) to a constituency with many older residents, it was sobering when I first came in to see many empty nests or single seniors. Further, in 2020, in the heart of the pandemic, nationally, we saw the most number of elderly suicides since 1991 – among people aged 60 and above, a total of 154 took their own lives. I felt each elderly suicide that I knew of from the ground keenly. In their golden years, why did things feel hopeless? Is there anything we could have done better to offer a listening ear to have been what they needed at that point in time? At each wake, I unearth that while some had strong support from family members who were devastated and questioning what they had missed, others had invisible health conditions or burdens, which felt too great to bear – especially if they were alone.”
“Zooming out to a societal and global level collective action is critical in tackling issues like climate change which pose an existential threat to our island state. In the President's speech, she highlighted Singapore's commitment to decisive action to reduce carbon emissions and take resolute steps towards meeting our net-zero commitments. Individuals play a role in climate action, for example, through personal choices in consumption energy use and advocacy. But personal sacrifices can never be the sole solution. Systemic change requires large amounts of capital and mindset shifts which means states, institutions and companies have a duty to ignite this transformation. How do we encourage the different sectors with different primary objectives to work together? On this I would like to declare my interests as Legal Council and Senior Project Leader in Tri Sector Associates, a social impact consultancy working on cross-sector social innovation. In a speech last year at the Transition Finance towards Net Zero Conference, researchers highlighted that we are 55% below the emissions reduction required by 2030 and 35% below the investments required for net zero by 2050. Bridging this gap requires concerted and collective action and effective transition finance needs close partnership among the public, philanthropic, private and people sectors. While governments own the green agenda and can take good outcomes to scale, private and philanthropic investors play a crucial role in providing capacity building and concessional capital to new innovative ideas that may be untested.”
“To ensure that Singapore thrives in another 58 years, we must create an environment where complex challenges are collectively owned and solved, and where each part of society is empowered to play to their strengths where we do not take what we have for granted. My speech today will centre around three points. First is collective action. If there is anything I have absorbed as truth in the past two and a half years or so, is that the person I am, is made possible by the sacrifice and support of my loved ones, and the work that we are able to do on the ground is made possible by a team as well as residents who look out for each other and the many volunteers. I have witnessed so many everyday miracles that defy the natural divisive forces that threaten to tear social fabric, in particular, during COVID-19 and social distancing. When people on the frontlines went above and beyond their duties; corporates who sent regular food packs to those in need; when a resident receiving welfare put aside some of the money she had received to order confinement food for a new mom, her neighbour, saying that is what she wanted to do with the money; and an uncle who walked to the market despite his weak legs because he wanted to cook a meal for the volunteer befrienders from our amazing Chengsan-Seletar X-teams who came to check on him every week without fail. Over and above, the Government's implementation of schemes such as the temporary relief fund, COVID-19 support Grant, Job Support Scheme (JSS), and the disbursement of $236 million in financial aid in its financial year ending March 2021 – there was a sense of responsibility of what we owe each other as we operate in a society.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, we are in the Second Session of the 14th Parliament of Singapore. The first Parliament of our nation was convened in 1965 and in 58 years, those who came before us built Singapore into who she is today. It is not lost on me that we are still a young nation, a little red dot with homes in the sky, willed into existence by the tenacity of our forefathers and carried by the resilience and harmony of our people today. Statistics show that as a whole, people are living wealthier, healthier, safer and more informed lives than ever before. But we are also facing new challenges that threaten our very existence, from climate change to social economic inequality, the rise of nationalism as the war rages on, reshaping our global order and threatening food security. But despite the uncertainty and fragmentation, there are reasons to believe that humanity and that Singapore is capable of overcoming the challenges facing us. As a society, we are more than a sum of our parts and we can work together. In her speech, President Halimah Yacob highlighted that we will continue to support the society where we care for and help one another, and pitch in to make a difference. I would like to thank her for her voice on issues that matter and for setting the tone. Indeed, it is our collective responsibility to shape our new social compact. Beyond providing support, the Government will also reinforce individual and family efforts and bring forth contributions including through committed businesses and a passionate civic society.”
“According to the 2021 report on youth delinquency by MSF, youth offenders who have experienced adverse childhood experiences are more likely to engage in drug abuse at a younger age and with a greater dependency. The report also highlighted that family disruptions are a significant factor hindering the social and emotional development of children and increasing the likelihood of substance abuse. As such, I urge this House to also prioritise strategies to support family cohesion and address the underlying issues that contribute to family disruptions, especially where parents are already users, while we introduce these amendments to MDA. To conclude, it is imperative that policies aimed at addressing misuse of substances continue to account for the multifaceted circumstances that contribute to this. It is only by taking a whole-of-society approach and effectively addressing both supply and demand for illicit substances, that we can protect our people from the pain and suffering cause by substance addictions. Sir, I support the Bill.”
“Moreover, the adolescent demographic may be particularly vulnerable to succumbing to peer pressure or experimenting with illicit substances due to a lack of awareness or understanding of trade-offs. Thus, provisions in part 2(A), such as section 11(n), 11(p) and 11(q), are appropriate. Attempts to shield our youth from being exposed to drug-related information while important, also needs to be realistic. Information permeates through phones and contradicting narratives and perspectives of drugs can easily be found online. It is helpful to communicate in commonly accepted direct narratives, rather than blanket statements. For example, substance addiction often leaves the addict in a place where they lose agency over their lives. Efforts such as "Finding Juliana", a TikTok campaign by NCADA illustrate this point well. Titled "What's Your Fix?", the campaign sought to develop an understanding on how addictions develop, and employed social media apps, such as TikTok, to impart knowledge and encourage positive decision-making, rather than scaring our youths. Also, we need to be proactive in our approach to help those who have not yet fallen prey to drug addiction but are still at risk. Previously, I have volunteered with younger girls in Reformative Training Centres (RTCs) and often left prisons worrying about the conditions that they would meet post-release. Financial challenges and poor familial relations as well as sometimes parents who were users themselves, I hope we can further study the issue of vulnerable youths and inter-generational addiction so that effective and timely support can be extended to them.”
“The guiding aim of what I have mentioned will be to provide individuals with the tools to reduce the harm associated with drug use, keeping them safe and consistent as they work towards recovery, as we know that change does not occur overnight. According to statistics by CNB, drug abuse among our youth has declined since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is positive news, as it suggests that despite the increased social stresses and anxieties brought about by the pandemic, illicit substances were not an avenue that youths turned to, to seek relief. However, Mr Sam Tee, the current director of CNB added in an interview in November 2021, that abuse among youths of certain substances is quickly returning to pre-pandemic levels. The correlation between mental health challenges and drug use cannot be understated. People self-medicate in an attempt to feel better and often end up exacerbating the symptoms of the very condition that they are trying to sooth. Collaboration between schools, communities and youth networks may help the development of a "Spot, Identify and Intervene" framework that could prevent the development of addiction to substances. We must also recognise the aetiology of mental health issues, such as inadequate supervision, lack of consistency in home environments, frequent parent conflicts, domestic violence, and so forth. A child growing up in these circumstances will not solely be deterred by the proverbial stick. Next, I applaud further measures to safeguard our young population from the dangers of drugs and NPS addictions. In an effort to evade legal restrictions, drug manufacturers have resorted to synthesising substances that mimic the effects of conventional drugs.”
“In 2019, the drug rehabilitation regime was further enhanced to commit third-time and subsequent drug abusers who are not charged with any other criminal offences to DRC. I hope we can continue to enhance our rehabilitative approaches, in particular, programmes need to take into account evolving research and the complex and evolving environmental circumstances of drug addicts in order to provide personalised support. In our current rehabilitation programmes, such as programmes by the DRC, Community Rehabilitation Centre and the National Addictions Management Service, there is already significant detachment from a one-size-fit-all approach. I welcome this, taking into account the fact that each individual's experience with drugs and addiction is unique and as such, treatment should be tailored to their specific needs. For example, some may require more intensive counselling, some may benefit more from group therapy or medical interventions. This is salient, as research has shown that the lack of personalised support results in a lower success rate for rehabilitation programmes. I would like to ask if the Government is looking to support and scale initiatives that have proven their ability to offer more personal and cost-efficient support to drug addicts seeking to reintegrate with society? In addition, how does the Government seek to improve the efficiency of these support initiatives by pairing it with harm reduction strategies, like overdose prevention programmes and medication assisted treatment? Further, the lack of sustained longer-term support may lead to an addict's relapse and disappointment by loved ones, ultimately straining relationships and exacerbating addiction. This will create a harmful cycle.”
“A few looked at the photograph with a slightly different lens and saw a user who was struggling with her addiction, yet doing the best that she could to still be a mother. I do not know either mother or child. But hope that both are getting the support and care that they need. If you cannot bond with society healthily because you are traumatised or beaten down by life, you may be born with something else that gives you a sense of relief. People who develop addictions are often looked at society, as being a person that has developed a fatal character flaw. However, research has shown that addiction is a medical condition that is often linked to undesirable conditions that create the disposition in the very first place and has the propensity to develop in the absence of a healthy environment. A classic study conducted on soldiers integrating back into society post-war in Vietnam by Lee and Robins, followed soldiers who used heroin heavily during the war after they returned home. In order to track if that translated into lifelong addictions, the data in the study found that environmental and social factors had a core relative effect on the soldier's decision to continue to abuse drugs after coming back from the war. Soldiers who came back to families and support structures were less likely to abuse drugs. In Singapore, drug addiction remains a complex issue, having an adverse impact on individuals, families and society. Over the years, the Government has implemented a range of rehabilitation programmes. For example, in 2014, the enhanced drug rehabilitation regime (EDRR) was introduced for first- and second-time drug abusers.”
“Sir, I rise in support of the Bill. Liberal and conservative views towards drugs describe little about the underlying human condition that fuels the necessity of today's debate here in this Chamber, namely, addiction. Regardless of society's personal attitudes and perspectives on drugs, addiction is a problem that needs societal attention going beyond punitive measures. While we seek to tackle the supply-side issues through this Bill, my suggestions are rooted in supplementing the punitive measures with programmes and rehabilitation that tackle the issue of demand fueled by addiction. Clause 2(b) amends the definition of "drug addict" in section 2 to include a person who, through the use of any psychoactive substance, has developed a desire or need to continue to take that psychoactive substance or a psychological or physical dependence upon the effect of that psychoactive substance. The effect of this amendment is that a person who is addicted to a psychoactive substance may be committed to supervision, treatment or rehabilitation under section 34. This is aligned with existing powers with respect to controlled drugs. I remember a photograph and some headlines in June 2022, which said that a baby was found in a squalid flat close to his mother during a recent drug bust. It was reported that his mother was a user. I saw some of the online comments. While majority agreed that drugs are harmful and supported a drug-free Singapore, some went further to call the mother heartless, useless and condemned her, among other terms that I cannot reproduce here. Most people saw, first, a mother who was irresponsible, as she was a user.”
“To provide sustainable living by powering houses through solar, building using sustainable materials and providing biogesters. While efforts seek to lower the carbon footprint of tourists, are there any sewerage treatment and waste disposal plans to cope with the overall increased human traffic and corresponding waste generated on the islands? Sir, we recognise that it is a tough balancing act for Singapore with intense land use pressures as a city-state and the need to balance conservation and natural heritage as well. To be clear, this is not about no development, but an appeal for clear processes and frameworks to encourage a science-based and coordinated approach between Government agencies in doing so. Big changes can take place in the most unexpected and smallest of places. Let us be at the forefront as an island city-state in dealing with these issues. Beyond Governmental bodies, many ground-up groups and individuals have dedicated their careers and free time to this. I would like to acknowledge, in particular, Friends of Marine Parks such as Stephen, Dr Zeehan and the team behind the Blue Plan, Dr Jani of SJIML, and Sam and Tai Chong from Our Singapore Reefs, who have shared their thoughts and hard work with me, as well as many others who championed giant clams, sharks, seagrass, clean shores and oceans. Our marine and reef ecosystem takes years to develop but only a moment to destroy if we do not prioritise them. Let us take this step to protect what we have and ensure the sustainable development of our Southern Islands.”
“Has there been any research to estimate the carrying capacity of the islands and are there limits or caps to the number of visitors on the island at any one point? In nature areas such as Kranji Marshes, permits for large groups are required for similar reasons. I hope that the Government could consider a similar concept to be rolled out on the islands. Next, on safety. What are some efforts made to ensure the safety of and environmentally friendly practices of visitors? For example, there can be signs to indicate strong currents for safe enjoyment in the waters and evacuation plans in the case of emergency. Visitors to the island will also be familiar with the long-tailed macaques which inhabit the island. Has the Government considered how human-wildlife conflict will be minimised, especially if the families on staycation bring food and snacks with them? I would also like to know who the enforcement authority is for safety and operations on the island. Perhaps, it will also be helpful to place life buoys at prominent locations or even consider a lifeguard during peak periods to prevent incidents of drowning. Next, on waste —”
“Given the technicality of such environmental assessments, there is potential to crowd-in expertise and public participation through a technical work group or panel. This would support the implementation of a well-coordinated and comprehensive plan to ensure that any development is sustainable and science-based. I sincerely hope that the Government considers this suggestion. I have some further questions. First, on zoning. Given that the Southern Islands are near marine and coastal areas, was an EIA conducted to understand and mitigate potential impact of the new development such as Tiny Homes on the area? How does the coastal and ecological profiling exercise by URA inform development in the Southern Islands? In line with the plans to develop the Southern Islands sensitively, we can refer to preliminary research, horizon mapping and integrated concept plan for St John's Island developed by Dr Jani Tanzil and the team at the St John’s Island National Marine Laboratory (SJIML), funded by the National Research Foundation (NRF). Using participatory mapping, the team came up with a preliminary proposal of both sea and land use zonings to create an environmentally friendly multi-use space for many stakeholders. Such zonings are in line of developing the island while ensuring that sensitive areas are kept protected. Potential areas include education, research, tourism, religious, cultural, conservation, sea sports fishing, agriculture and even military. I would like to ask if the Government has considered this piece of research. Second, on carrying capacity. With increasing developments on the island, more Singaporeans and tourists are visiting.”
“The balance between conservation and development requires tighter coordination between the multitude of Government agencies involved in the islands' management. For illustration, island and land permits are currently managed by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA; the National Parks Board (NParks) is involved in conservation, for example, through the Sisters' Island Marine Park and also the conservation of heritage trees and development of trails. While the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) looks after the development of the island into a light touch tourist destination, the Maritime Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) governs the rest of the waters that surround the island. While I appreciate the good work of each of these agencies, it may be difficult to have a holistic understanding of the islands' development and ensure that any changes are done sensitively. Sir, I seek clarification if there is a main liaison that supports coordination between the Ministries on the islands' land use, development and management, and is responsible for ensuring that any potential plans are sensitive to the environment and safety. I propose for an inter-agency workgroup with perhaps URA leading it to ensure systematic coordination between various stakeholders, utilising the technical expertise of each stakeholder. As recommended in the Singapore Blue Plan 2018, the inter-agency workgroup could then develop processes relating to the islands' use, implement a structured approach to manage competing land and ocean use, as well as oversee EIA's and the islands' development plans. A clear checklist could be developed to identify environmental considerations to be assessed before any land or sea use is approved.”
“How does the Government measure ongoing water and sediment quality as well as the potential presence of larger predators, given that the fish cages are barely 50 metres from Bendera Bay, which is stewarded by Friends of Marine Park? How are agriculture sites selected? And are there any other sites around the Southern Islands which are being considered for the future? What are the measures and safeguards which the Government requires of companies to minimise damage to the seabed, including the anchoring of cages and monitoring of feed spills? Is there ongoing assessment as to the extent of natural habitats and water flows in both the short and medium term? I appreciate that aquaculture is a very important part of our food resilience goals and I hope we can establish good practices and standards around it before further expansion. Second, Big Tiny's Tiny Away Escape was launched, which will start taking bookings very soon. Like the throngs who flocked to the Southern Islands during COVID-19, staycations were also a popular activity during COVID-19. I think opportunities for Singaporeans to connect with nature are good, especially for our young, who are more likely to fall in love with our environment if they are familiar with it. I echo comments from the marine community, and I sincerely appreciate the Sentosa Development Corporation's (SDC) consideration in this less intrusive accommodation option. I also appreciate that SDC carried out stakeholder engagements and I would be keen to understand what environmental and safety considerations are required of the operator and whether any of the suggestions during consultation have been adopted. I would also appreciate hearing what the future plans are in developing the Southern Islands as a light touch ecotourism destination.”
“While it is exciting to hear new plans and see Singaporeans engaged in these nature spaces, the Southern Islands must be developed sensitively. Given that the Southern Islands are more or less a blank slate, it would be exciting as well to testbed sustainable ideas and the learnings could be implemented on mainland Singapore. Some may wonder what is there to protect in the first place. The Southern Islands are significant in two key areas: natural and cultural heritage. The Southern Islands support coastal habitats to several nationally vulnerable or endangered species. It is also home to a rich culture and history. The islands were part of the lively settlements of Orang Laut and former islanders have religious significance and hosted Singapore's first quarantine centre – when we are talking about COVID-19 today. Given the natural and cultural significance of the Southern Islands, I appreciate the efforts of NParks, which engages and consults stakeholders and URA for adopting a science-based approach to stewarding green and blue spaces through the ecological profiling exercise (EPE). The EPE showed that the Southern Islands is a space where development should be considered sensitively. Based on these findings, I ask that we consider how best to ensure the careful integration of conservation and development in our plans. Sir, our varied interests and land needs are outsizing the 719 square kilometres or so of our main island. In recent times, we have seen two activities introduced. First, aquaculture activities taken over by Barramundi Asia Group, just beyond Bendera Bay. I note that the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) had completed an environmental impact assessment (EIA) before implementation.”
“Sir, I join my colleague, the hon Member Mr Louis Ng in this Adjournment Motion, and thank you for the opportunity to speak. I would like to zoom into a specific area, namely the Southern Islands. Over the years, like you, I have had the opportunity to volunteer as a clean-up diver and kayaked around our waters. While what is under the surface may not always be front of mind, my time out on and in our waters has made me determined to play my part in our collective action. The Southern Islands refer to a cluster of islands, an informal planning area to the south of mainland Singapore. It comprises Kusu, Lazarus, Seringat, St John's, Sentosa, Tekukor and the two Sisters' islands. For some time, visitors were generally marine scientists, casual picnickers, Kusu pilgrims, nostalgic former islanders or those in search of a trail off the beaten track. However, restlessness from COVID-19 piqued Singaporeans' interests. Visitorship on the islands increased by 2.5 times, from 6,800 a month in 2019 to 17,000 a month in 2021. In 2022, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) conducted a long-term plan review (LTPR) and engaged more than 13,000 participants in polls, discussions and webinars, which culminated in roving exhibitions. Together with some marine scientists and environmental advocates, I toured the exhibition and was interested in how the LTPR highlighted the creation of an island of "green, blue and fun" by expanding nature-based recreation networks and embracing islandness. This includes plans to transform our Southern Islands. Sir, I agree it is important to embrace our islandness and increase recreational options for Singaporeans.”
“Thank you, Chair. Senior Minister of State Zaqy Mohamad earlier mentioned that the #amPowered programme will be progressively rolled out across all the ITEs and M3@Towns. May I ask if there are plans to involve companies in the private sector to partner the #amPowered programme to expose our youths to jobs in growth sectors like tech and finance, as well as entrepreneurship and other professional roles, please.”
“(In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Sir, mentoring programmes provide emotional support and career guidance to mentees so that they can achieve their aspirations. Last year I was quite happy when my younger sibiling who was studying at university told me about signing up to be a peer mentor with MENDAKI. Mentors can help their mentees to overcome life challenges and give career guidance to assist them in their professional lives. One youth mentoring programme is the #amPowered Programme. In 2022, there were plans for #amPowered to be gradually introduced in the ITE colleges and M3@Towns. May I ask how has MENDAKI's overall mentoring approach, model and plans evolved over the past two years and what are the targets and KPIs which MENDAKI hopes to achieve through these programs? What are the timeline and plans for the #amPowered Programme to be expanded to all M3@Towns and ITEs, to make it more accessible to the community?”