Ong Chit Chung
Singapore
“Sir, the SAF may buy the best aircraft, best tanks and the best ships, but the real core of the SAF remains its officers and men. Without the commitment of the officers and men, the SAF would be nothing. Besides the full-time and Operationally-ready Servicemen, the SAF has to attract and retain good career officers and men.”
“Sir, I know that in geopolitical terms, it is better to keep Myanmar within ASEAN than to leave it out. It may help to prevent Myanmar from being too drawn into or be dependent on China, but there is a limit to the price for keeping Myanmar within the ASEAN fold.”
“Have we rushed into such a proposal without taking into full consideration the internal dynamics of Indonesia? What are the prospects of such an agreement to be accepted? How would the anti-competition charges against Temasek Holdings affect bilateral relations and the future flow of investments into Indonesia?”
“Sir, I wish to seek some clarifications from the Minister on Myanmar. Many of us feel that ASEAN has no teeth, but the Minister clearly thinks that ASEAN has a tongue. I would rather describe it as a tongue-in-cheek way of explaining how ASEAN deals with Myanmar.”
“Sir, I would like to ask the Senior Minister of State whether the Extradition Treaty will undermine or, to use his own word, compromise Singapore's position as an international financial centre, and whether Indonesians will hesitate to invest, put their money or buy property in Singapore because of this.”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, I will leave the Minister to describe the elephant, but I would say that the SAF has embarked on what some call a "Revolution in military affairs", employing IT and state-of-the-art technology to transform the SAF into a 3G fighting force: I believe, a decisive force, an effective deterrence against any would-be aggresso…”
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“Mr Chairman, I want to ask whether the Minister would care to clarify the point I raised earlier, whether the officers are still taught strategy besides tactics, because, I believe, strategy is a very important element of overall warfare.”
“Sir, I would like to ask the Minister whether the American navy and the Japanese navy have a role to play in keeping the Straits of Malacca open and safe.”
“Sir, the SAF may buy the best aircraft, best tanks and the best ships, but the real core of the SAF remains its officers and men. Without the commitment of the officers and men, the SAF would be nothing. Besides the full-time and Operationally-ready Servicemen, the SAF has to attract and retain good career officers and men. In view of the economic growth and the tight market for manpower, are the benefits of a SAF career still attractive in a competitive market? Does the SAF continue to have a good share of talents? Sir, I refer to the various schemes set up to provide gratuities and other benefits to SAF regulars. In particular, the SAVER scheme, launched a number of years ago, appears not to have met its original target and some officers believe that the returns in this scheme is far below their expectations. Sir, can anything be done about this? In view of the tight labour market and the higher retirement age in the market, will the SAF extend the service of officers by two or three years?”
“This, indeed, is a good demonstration of the operational readiness of the SAF. The question before us is: if the plane did not respond in time, would it be shot down? And who would give the order or authority for such shootings? 3G SAF”
“Sir, the SAF has made much progress over the last few years and has been transformed into a 3G SAF. In the earlier years, we projected the SAF as the Army, the Navy and the Air Force. Then came joint operations. Now we emphasise one SAF – the SAF as an integrated fighting force. In the new development, SAF has acquired new weapons and upgraded its hardware. Its emphasis is on technology, fire power and mobility. But operational doctrines must move in tandem with changes in technology, equipment and force structure. How then can the SAF ensure that its doctrines are revised and updated constantly and that its officers and men are trained and orientated to the new doctrines? Sir, in terms of an integrated fighting force, what is the best command structure to exercise diverse operations that the SAF has to undertake which may entail the deployment of different units from the Army, Navy and Air Force? A question is: who is in command? What is indeed an integrated command? Is the SAF prepared to counter a terrorist attack or a biological or chemical attack? How can the SAF support the Ministry of Home Affairs in preventing or addressing such incidents like the escape of Mas Selamat? While we talk about a 3G SAF, will the officers in the SAF be distracted and not focus their minds on the strategic big picture or strategic thinking? Do they have sufficient time to think about strategies besides tactics? Have they learnt about Sun Tzu's Art of War or Clausewitz's principle that war is an extension of political will and not an end by itself? Recently, Sir, there was a small aircraft that flew into Singapore without prior air clearance and our fighter jets scrambled to verify and escort the plane to land at Changi Airport.”
“Sir, the Straits of Malacca constitutes a vital sea lane for international shipping. It is an important channel of access while, at the same time, it can be a choke point or bottleneck. If it is infested with pirates, if it fell into the wrong hands or if it were obstructed, it will bring trade to a standstill and it will be extremely bad for Singapore as we depend on trade and imports for food and oil. Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia are working closely together in joint patrols to keep the Straits of Malacca open and safe. But are such joint patrols sufficient? What about the role of major powers like the USA? What happens if there is a terrorist attack on the Straits of Malacca? How would we deal with such a threat? Or, if a huge tanker were damaged and sunk in the Straits of Malacca, thereby blocking the passage, what action can Singapore take? Sir, what is the state of our defence diplomacy and relations with Indonesia and Malaysia? In particular, how are we going to cope in the case of Indonesia in the absence of the proposed Defence Cooperation Agreement? Is Malaysia still engaging Singapore in the Five-Power Defence Agreement or are there restrictions? Are we having good defence relations with Malaysia at the moment? Contributions to UN Stabilisation and Reconstruction Missions”
“Sir, I wish to seek some clarifications from the Minister on Myanmar. Many of us feel that ASEAN has no teeth, but the Minister clearly thinks that ASEAN has a tongue. I would rather describe it as a tongue-in-cheek way of explaining how ASEAN deals with Myanmar. Because the Minister stated just now that nine other members of ASEAN issued a declaration on Myanmar at the last Summit. But what would the declaration do? Mr Ong Keng Yong, the distinguished former ASEAN Secretary-General, said that thousands of declarations had been issued by ASEAN. My question is: what concrete steps can ASEAN take to guide Myanmar on the right path?”
“Sir, China is a rising power in Asia. I remember that when I first visited China in 1992, China had decided to open its doors to investment and trade. Many Chinese political and business leaders told me that China had much to learn from Singapore. Now, when I visit China, I can see that China has leapfrogged and achieved tremendous economic development. Shanghai is very modern and very impressive, a beehive of economic activity; indeed, a rival to Hongkong and Singapore. Now, China has less and less to learn from Singapore. A feather in the cap of the New China is the Olympics which will be held in August in Beijing. The Taiwanese presidential election will soon be held and it is likely that the new Taiwanese President will start a new relationship with the Chinese leaders. Cross-straits relations will shift. Indeed, more than one million Taiwanese are working in China. Even for Singapore, we may see more and more Singaporeans attracted to work and stay in China, a point highlighted by Minister Mentor. My question is: does China flex its muscles now that it is a rising power with potential superpower status? Considering East Asia as a whole, how would a new China impact Japan and Korea? How would the new South Korean President address these issues? We can expect change as he is styled as a new Asia Sarkosy. Our relations with South Korea is so far very low key. Can we do more? How then will the United States see its role in Asia? Will the US get less and less engaged in Asia, given its pre-occupation in Afghanistan and Iraq? That will make it more and more difficult to have a balance of power in Asia. Middle East”
“Have we rushed into such a proposal without taking into full consideration the internal dynamics of Indonesia? What are the prospects of such an agreement to be accepted? How would the anti-competition charges against Temasek Holdings affect bilateral relations and the future flow of investments into Indonesia? Further north, Sir, relations with Thailand appear to have been on the mend, especially since the election of a new civilian government. The news reported that Mr Thaksin had returned to Thailand today. The civil service cooperation programme between Singapore and Thailand has been restarted. I hope, therefore, that 2008 will see a good year in Singapore-Thai relationship. Southeast Asia”
“Sir, Singapore's relations with Malaysia have improved significantly since Dato Sri Abdullah Badawi became Prime Minister. Singapore and Malaysia have made representations to the International Court of Justice in November last year, and the verdict will be known soon. Singapore has proved beyond all doubt that we have clear and uninterrupted sovereignty and control of Pedra Branca since the 19th century. We have indeed a very strong case. Whatever the outcome, we know that the Singapore and Malaysian governments are committed to accept the verdict. Dato Syed Hamid Albar, the Malaysian Foreign Minister, said that bilateral relations will be unaffected. Ms Lydia Lim of the Straits Times noted that if both sides manage to keep bilateral ties on an even keel whichever way the court rules, that would indeed signal a coming of age in relationships. Both countries should therefore prepare their own people for any eventual outcome and move on. Singapore and Malaysia are close neighbours. We are in such close proximity that sometimes we have blind spots. It may help if we promote more people-to-people programmes, like student and teacher exchanges, joint R&D programmes amongst universities, cooperation amongst civic bodies and joint teaching programmes in hospitals. There is much Singapore and Malaysia can cooperate, eg, the Iskandar Development Region (IDR). Singapore and Malaysia can jointly encourage businessmen to invest in the IDR. Sir, the IDR reminds me of the growth triangle. Should we not expand the scope and revitalise the growth triangle? It may be to the benefit of all countries, including Indonesia. Talking about Indonesia, it appears that the Extradition Treaty and the Defence Cooperation Agreement with Indonesia have stalled.”
“Sir, I know that in geopolitical terms, it is better to keep Myanmar within ASEAN than to leave it out. It may help to prevent Myanmar from being too drawn into or be dependent on China, but there is a limit to the price for keeping Myanmar within the ASEAN fold. And Myanmar has not shown any remorse at all, and it is not listening to ASEAN. There are some press reports that important world leaders have kept away from ASEAN, because of the Myanmar issue. And there are apparently great difficulties in confirming a meeting between ASEAN leaders and President George Bush at his Texas ranch - again over the issue of Myanmar. It is said that the First Lady, Laura Bush, would not welcome the Myanmar delegate there. Ultimately, the real issue remains whether ASEAN, as a group, can get its act together and attract investments and trade, and compete with emerging giants like India and China. ASEAN's Future Progress”
“Sir, the ASEAN Charter is a step forward, but will it be a toothless paper tiger? First of all, member states have to ratify the Charter by November this year and some states are already dragging their feet. Indonesian parliamentarians are opposing the ratification. The Philippine President has declared that if the Myanmar government still rides roughshod over the people, the Philippines will not ratify the Charter. 2.00 pm A well-known analyst, Mr Jusuf Wanandi, of Indonesia commented that, contrary to expectations, the ASEAN Charter did not speed up decision-making at all. How could ASEAN move forward when it is still held back by the unworkable formula of decision by consensus, whereby objection by member states is enough to derail ASEAN. If everything is by consensus, how can we move? We will all be tied up in knots. Although the Charter paints an enlarged role for the ASEAN Secretariat, very little has been done by way of financial commitment to fund the new ASEAN Secretariat. Who will pay for the extra salaries and expenses? With a few pennies in his pocket, do we expect the ASEAN Secretary-General to do wonders? Sir, Myanmar stands out like a sore thumb in ASEAN. The weakness of the decision-making by consensus was most obvious in the last ASEAN Summit in Singapore in November 2007. A briefing by the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative, Prof. Gambari, on his visit to Myanmar was cancelled at the last minute because of the objection raised by Myanmar. The world was watching how ASEAN would handle Myanmar at this Summit, and ASEAN fell flat to the ground. All credibility was lost. ASEAN was held hostage by Myanmar and could do nothing in the face of Myanmar's intransigence.”
“" If we need more manpower to do police patrols at vital installations like the Airport, why not increase police personnel by sending more National Servicemen to join the Police Force, instead of enlisting the SAF? Traditionally, the SAF is for external defence and the Police is in charge of law and order within the country. In a way, it is a separation of powers. Will the empowerment of SAF servicemen in domestic operation distort this fine balance of power? We can trust the current Government Ministers we all know are people of integrity. I know we can trust Minister Teo Chee Hean who will absolutely abide by the rules. But what if the PAP were to lose power one day, and I hope not, and another set of leaders take over the country and the government? Will such concentration of powers in the SAF lead to potential abuses under a different government? Will there be a chance of a military backed government? When the SAF personnel operate in internal land operation, will they be subject to civil law or military law? If there were abuses of misconduct, would they be charged in civil court or would they be court-martialled? Even the SAF servicemen need to know under what laws are they operating. Sir, SAF personnel are mainly males. May I ask if they will be allowed to search female persons in public? In the London underground, a person was shot by mistake, suspected wrongly of being a terrorist. Would there be clear rules of engagement for SAF personnel and how well will they be trained to handle tricky and delicate situations, bearing in mind that mishaps cannot be ruled out? My question is: are we expecting too much of our young SAF National Servicemen? 5.40 pm”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, thank you for allowing me to join in the debate. Sir, after 9/11, the security landscape has changed drastically. Terrorism is a clear and present danger, a threat to the peace and security of Singapore. So far, we have been spared the ravages of terrorism. This is due to the good work of the police, the Internal Security Department and the Security Forces as well as the support and cooperation of all Singaporeans of all races. We can understand and appreciate therefore the extension of powers to SAF servicemen in their deployment for air and sea operations. Air and sea operations are by nature external operations for which SAF servicemen are trained and geared up for. Sir, however, empowerment of SAF servicemen for land operation is not the same. In the amendment, SAF servicemen will be empowered to search, arrest and detain persons within Singapore in land operations. This is clearly a new domestic military role. It is a big psychological change which may be difficult to accept. In the domestic context, we are all familiar with the neighbourhood policemen - our men in blue. But it could be quite frightening for a layman to be confronted by a soldier in army camouflage with an array of powerful weapons. I therefore have the following questions for the Minister for Defence. Currently, the SAF servicemen work side by side with the police officers in land operations. They complement each other and in emergency, the Minister for Home Affairs can extend the police powers to the SAF servicemen. This system seems to be working out well so far. Why do we need to change this? As they say, "If ain't broke, why fix it?”
“Sir, I would like to ask the Senior Minister of State whether the Extradition Treaty will undermine or, to use his own word, compromise Singapore's position as an international financial centre, and whether Indonesians will hesitate to invest, put their money or buy property in Singapore because of this.”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, I am sure the Minister will agree that we all try to avoid an arms race in Southeast Asia. I would like to ask him how do the immediate neighbours of ours think about our defence capability and defence technology. Secondly, earlier on in the sitting, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs seems to have its hands full dealing with some of our immediate neighbours' problems. But I understand from Minister Teo that our defence relationship is very good with our immediate neighbours' defence forces. Would it help in any way in our foreign affairs, or maybe, he can give some helping hand to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs?”
“Sir, National Service has become a rite of passage for our young men. It is part of nation-building. It has bonded our people with all serving, regardless of race, religion, social standing or wealth. It has become our way of life. National Service has made our nation strong. The commitment and sacrifices of our young men in arms have deterred aggression and provided all Singaporeans with 40 years of peace and security, and laid the foundation for our prosperity. This year, Sir, we celebrate the 40th Anniversary of National Service. This is a historic milestone, and we as a nation and people must take this opportunity to honour and appreciate the sacrifices of generations of our National Servicemen. I say generations, as many of us here have two generations who have served in National Service, including myself and my two sons, and it would be interesting to find out whether there are families with three generations in National Service or volunteer service. I therefore hope that MINDEF would not let this occasion pass without giving due recognition and prominence to this important milestone.”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, I will leave the Minister to describe the elephant, but I would say that the SAF has embarked on what some call a "Revolution in military affairs", employing IT and state-of-the-art technology to transform the SAF into a 3G fighting force: I believe, a decisive force, an effective deterrence against any would-be aggressors against Singapore. The SAF has been upgraded with submarines, frigates and Apache attack helicopters. Soon, it will be beefed up with powerful Leopold tanks, as announced, and advanced F15 SG fighters, the latest. SAF will have tremendous and awesome firepower and great mobility, and would be a cutting-edge force to be reckoned with. May I therefore ask the Minister if the transformation of the SAF is going according to plans and which are the areas that need further improvements, and whether the officers and men are trained and prepared sufficiently for the new phases of war, not just in terms of technology and, as Ms Indranee Rajah said, prepared mentally and physically and in terms of manpower and management?”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, maritime security is of vital importance to Singapore, particularly the passage through the Straits of Malacca. The bulk of our trade flows through the Straits of Malacca. It is therefore in the interests of all trading nations that the sea lanes of the Straits of Malacca be kept open, and be kept safe and secure for shipping, and piracy and terrorism be kept out. It is of utmost importance for Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore to cooperate closely to keep the sea lanes open. I would therefore like to ask the Minister whether there is scope for further cooperation, and whether he is satisfied with the state of maritime security. Training Facilities”
“Sir, I would like to ask the Minister, in discussing the ASEAN Charter, will the ASEAN Charter take a stronger position on Myanmar? Or would Singapore and ASEAN consider taking a stronger position on Myanmar now that Myanmar does not seem to listen to any advice?”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, recently, Singapore's immediate neighbours, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia, seem to have an axe to grind and are terribly unhappy about Singapore. The Johor Menteri Besar, Mr Abdul Ghani Othman, blamed the floods in Kota Tinggi on Singapore's reclamation works. This is a ridiculous claim, unsubstantiated by facts, and also did not explain why floods occurred in so many other parts of Malaysia. And the same Menteri Besar is ambivalent, blowing hot and cold about Singapore investors participating in the Iskandar Development Region. The Thais accused Singapore of spying through Shin Corp's mobile and satellite operations. Why should Singapore be interested in spying on Thailand? We have better things to do. And the Thai government was terribly unhappy when the former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin made a private visit to Singapore. If the Thai military government is self-confident, why should they be worried who Mr Thaksin visited or whom Mr Thaksin had dinner with? And Indonesia abruptly banned the sale of sand to Singapore, out of anger. The Indonesian Fisheries and Maritime Affairs Minister, Mr Freddy Numberi, called Singapore a "United States puppet". He said that the ban on sand export would go on till border disputes are settled. But we are not intimidated. We shall get sand from elsewhere, use better construction methods and come up with NewSand, like we did with NEWater. Indonesia is also terribly unhappy that we raised the haze issue at the UN during a debate on environmental issues. Overall, Sir, what does it all mean? It means that our neighbours are simply jealous of our success. I would say they have developed a "red eye" syndrome, infected with jealousy and envy, seeing red over the little Red Dot.”
“Sir, ASEAN would be celebrating its 40th anniversary. ASEAN is at the crossroads and is time for stock taking. As Mr Severino, a former Secretary General of ASEAN, put it, ASEAN would have to face tough questions from both its citizens and the international community in the coming years. Is ASEAN the right vehicle for cooperation? Does it focus on the relevant problems? Are the appropriate instruments available? Some are indeed disappointed that ASEAN is not a strong economic entity. The pace of economic integration is far too slow and at its snail's pace. There is also the thorny question of membership. How do we deal with a wayward member like Myanmar whose conduct somewhat diminishes ASEAN standing? There are lots of ASEAN conferences and talks but little action. We wish ASEAN well. But it is in danger of being a NATO - No Action Talk Only. Will the ASEAN Charter chartered by the Eminent Persons Group be a good roadmap for ASEAN in future? What is the outcome of the ASEAN Ministers' Retreat at Siem Reap, we wonder?”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, Singapore has benefited immensely from foreign investment and MNCs. But we must also at the same time give full support and encouragement to our homegrown SMEs. They are an important pillar of our economy and create jobs for our people and generate revenue for our country. Big businesses and investors have a super-efficient EDB to promote their interests and cut through the red tape. However, there is no central agency to coordinate and champion the interests of our homegrown SMEs. Is it IE Singapore or SPRING Singapore? Why not an EDB-like agency for SMEs? Last year, I said that SMEs are like Cinderellas and hoped that the Government would send a Prince Charming and transform the Cinderella into a princess. Maybe it is time. We are very glad that Mr Philip Yeo, a top-notch senior civil servant with a wealth of experience in EDB and A*STAR, has been appointed Chairman of SPRING Singapore. Will he be the Prince Charming who will lead the charge and transform the SMEs for the good of the country?”
“The Economist, which is normally quite hard-hitting on Singapore, concludes this time that "it is hard to avoid the suspicion that the little country's unforgettable offence is being richer and more successful than its neighbours, and not particularly apologetic about it." Sir, we should absolutely not be apologetic about our success. Indonesia is wrong to ban the export of sand to Singapore out of spite. Indonesia should jolly well know that it should not build solid bilateral relations on shifting sands. Thailand should know too that it should not use Singapore as the scapegoat for its own internal problems. And there are so many flip-flops, as you know, in Thai policies. The Thais, therefore, would do well to learn from Mrs Margaret Thatcher, the Iron Lady, that, to forge ahead, there should not be any U-turns. So, perhaps, we should give even more budget to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to counter all these false accusations. Sir, on that note, I support the generous and great Budget. 2.11 pm”
“This Budget is incomplete as there was no pronouncement on the abolishment of the estate duty. Last year, the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance declared, and I quote: "We should reach a conclusion by the next Budget." But, to the disappointment of many, in this Budget, the Second Minister for Finance instead said that he had "decided to postpone a verdict on this". Mr Speaker, Sir, may I remind the Minister that death is a final verdict that cannot wait and may take us by surprise. Last year, I remarked that the people were saying that they were waiting too long. They put it as Tan Jin Ku. This year, they said and cried "Tan Bo Lai!", ie, never come. I hope it will be remedied soon. Overall, Sir, I would say this is a very good Budget. But, as they say, the devil is always in the details. Many of the lower-income workers are not clear how the Workfare scheme will work out for them. They are not sure whether they are eligible or how to avail themselves of the scheme. This, definitely, could be considered as another "C" - confusion. In implementing the scheme, we should enlist our grassroots leaders and community volunteers to reach out to the people. They can help us to connect to the ground, and be the "connectors" for the scheme. So, "C", I hope, will be for "connectors", and not "confusion". Mr Speaker, Sir, recently, The Economist headlined its 20th February 2007 report on Southeast Asia as "Let's all bash Singapore". It seems that our immediate neighbours, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia, are all unhappy about Singapore for one reason or the other.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, this is a historic Budget. It is a turning point in the history of Singapore. For the first time, the Government is institutionalising, on a long-term basis, the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme for our low-wage earners. This is a bold initiative and it underlines the Government's recognition of the need to help the lower-income groups and to cushion the impact of the widening income gap in a globalised and competitive economy of Singapore. This is indeed a major change, and the Government declared this as "strengthening our social security system". Note that we are using the term "social security". This is a 2G Budget - generous and great. It is a generous Budget with a generous GST offset package, a generous Workfare, and a generous corporate tax cut. This is a great Budget. It is great in vision. It builds capabilities for the future, invests in our people, invests in R&D, invests in our economic infrastructure, and will definitely enable us to secure our future. It is a 2C Budget - caring and creative. It is a caring Budget, with special concern for lower-income groups and our senior citizens. It is a creative Budget. It establishes the Post-Secondary Education Accounts, supports lifelong learning, and aims to make Singapore a world-class city with a creative living environment for all Singaporeans. Sir, I would have given it a third "C" for completeness. But, alas, it is incomplete. The Budget is incomplete as there is no cut in income tax. Many who pay taxes are deeply disappointed that the Government did not take this opportunity to make our income tax rate even more competitive and encourage even more high net-worth entrepreneurs and talents to be attracted and retained in Singapore.”
“Sir, loyalty to nation and commitment to National Service would then be so pervasive that it would be a natural thing for all young and able-bodied male Singaporeans to bear arms and defend our own country. There will be no two ways about it. Sir, I support the amendment. 4.30 pm”
“Bearing in mind that we have about 100 unresolved cases of National Service defaulters a year, it is the right step forward to further deter would-be defaulters. It is also measured and fair, as there are no compulsory jail sentences. Custodial sentences, if appropriate in the circumstances, are left to the discretion of the courts to decide. Sir, I also support the extension of the Exit Permit control to pre-enlistees aged 13 to 16 1/2 years old. This, I believe, is a consequential change, as National Service has been shortened to two years and the deferment policy for further studies has been revamped. Indeed, the clear-cut and uniform deferment policy is much welcomed. It is fair and it is seen to be fair by all. Its simplicity is its virtue. In my mind, it underlines the two fundamental principles of National Service which I mentioned earlier, ie, the universality of service and equality of treatment and sacrifice. But doubling the fine is not the complete picture or answer. It fails to answer nor provide a solution to the question why Singaporeans or some Singaporeans abscond from National Service. It is more important for us as a nation and as a society to cultivate in our young a love for the country, to imbue in them the virtues of patriotism, honour, loyalty and commitment. If they have these, they will feel so ashamed to run away from National Service. They will not do it. It will never cross their minds. They will be honour-bound and duty-bound to do their part for our country, and this is what National Service is all about. The Government and society at large should therefore give even greater emphasis to National Education and Total Defence. May I, therefore, ask what would MINDEF and the Government do in this direction?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, in amending the Enlistment Act, we should ask what is its origin. On independence in 1965, our fledgling nation had had to start the SAF from scratch. As Singapore citizens, it is our duty and obligation to defend our own country. Our survival depends on it. There is no other way. The Enlistment Act is therefore a necessity, as Singapore is a small country with limited manpower and resources. Some people call us "The little red dot". So be it. In the context of defence, population constraints mean that we cannot afford a standing armed force of regular officers and men. Even if we tried, there would not be sufficient numbers nor quality to form a modern regular force. Hence, the conscript SAF based on National Service. Sir, having established the critical need for National Service, we must take it upon ourselves to implement National Service fairly and impartially. We have to bear in mind two fundamental principles. The first principle, the universality of service, ie, National Service should be applied across-the-board to all male Singapore citizens within a certain age group. No one should be exempted, except on stringent and objective medical grounds. The second principle is that of equality of treatment and sacrifice. Whether one is a hawker's son, a taxi driver's son or a tycoon's son, all of us have to go through National Service. All go through the same training, all are treated equally. This is the principle we hold close to our heart. We go through the same route march and we run up Peng Kang Hill together. With this background perspective, I support the raising of the maximum fine quantum under the Enlistment Act from $5,000 to $10,000.”
“Based on a market study, dual-flush and single-flush types cost almost the same. HDB will be carrying out pilot projects to install dual-flush LCFCs in flats for selected HDB Main Upgrading Programmes (MUP). Dr Amy Khor also asked how we are helping low-income families so that they have a constant supply of water. I have earlier mentioned the Water Efficient Homes Programme and the Water Volunteer Groups, and how they would visit lower-income and needy families to help them save on their water bills. For example, volunteers from the Sunlove Home Neighbourhood Link and Indus Moral Care visit needy senior citizens in South East and Central CDCs respectively to help them install water saving devices and share with them water saving habits. For households that are in arrears, PUB has made arrangements with SP Services to offer instalment plans for households to settle their utilities bill arrears over a period of time. Instead of having their water supply cut, PUB reduces the flow rate of water to these households by installing flow restrictors. This enables such households to continue to have access to water for their basic needs. Besides utilities rebates provided under the Utilities Save (U-Save) Scheme, CDCs also offer financial assistance to help low-income and needy families offset their utilities bills. All these measures will help to ensure that low-income families in Singapore are not left behind. Environmental and Water Technologies”
“In addition to the existing programmes, PUB will roll out a new programme in 2006 called the "10-Litre Challenge". This programme aims to get every individual, you and me included, to reduce daily water consumption by 10 litres. The "10-Litre Challenge" programme will comprise various initiatives, such as water volunteer groups, a labelling scheme for water-efficient appliances, and promoting the use of dual-flush low-capacity flushing cisterns (LCFCs). Allow me to elaborate. Firstly, PUB is working with the Singapore Environment Council to set up a dedicated web portal to show how easy it is to save 10 litres of water a day. For example, I was told that just by reducing shower time by one minute, each person can save up to nine litres of water. Secondly, PUB is working with PA and CDCs for grassroots organisations to form water volunteer groups. These water volunteer groups, supported by PUB officers, will conduct visits to educate households on water conservation practices and help them install water saving devices. The water volunteer groups will also visit lower-income and needy families to help them save on their water bills. Thirdly, we will put in place a voluntary water efficiency labelling scheme for water fittings and appliances by the end of this year. Like energy efficiency labels, water efficiency labels will enable consumers to make better informed choices before purchasing items like washing machines and flushing cisterns. Fourthly, PUB is looking into the mandatory installation of dual-flush low-capacity flushing cisterns (LCFCs) in all new buildings, as well as existing buildings undergoing renovations by end 2009. Compared to single-flush cisterns, the dual-flush models use less water as they allow users the choice of a half-flush versus a full-flush.”
“Secondly, PUB is working with the construction industry to adopt earth control measures such that silt from construction sites does not end up in our reservoirs. Concurrently, we will also step up enforcement to deal with recalcitrant offenders. Sir, as we continue with our efforts to diversify and increase our supply of water, we must concurrently pursue conservation strategies to manage water demand effectively. Both Dr Khor and Dr Ong have asked how we can further encourage water conservation. PUB adopts a multi-pronged approach in managing water demand through pricing, mandatory water conservation requirements and encouraging voluntarism. This strategy has worked as our per capita domestic water consumption has decreased from 176 litres per day in 1994 to 160 litres per day in 2005. There is however room to do more. Following feedback from the Singapore Green Plan (SGP) 2012 review process, PUB will set a new target to lower our per capita domestic water consumption to 155 litres per day by 2012. To achieve this target, PUB will be rolling out additional new initiatives in 2006. Sir, let me first update the House on our existing programmes. Our ongoing Water Efficient Homes and Water Efficient Buildings programmes have been very successful. In our recent public survey, 87% of Singaporeans indicated that they practise water conservation at home. A further 231 commercial and industrial buildings and premises joined our Water Efficient Buildings programme in 2005. In July 2005, PUB launched the Water Detective Programme to educate primary school students on how they should conserve, value and enjoy water. We will continue with these efforts to spread the water conservation message.”
“If need be, Singapore can be self-sufficient beyond 2061. Besides ensuring a sustainable supply of water, we will also continue to uphold high standards of water quality, water supply security and reliability. PUB will continue their stringent Water Quality Monitoring Programme, involving both PUB's and external laboratories. We will also continue to engage an International Audit Panel to provide independent reviews on PUB's management of water quality. Sir, everyone of us needs to play our part to ensure that the rain water collected in our network of drains, canals and rivers is free of litter and pollution. As more and more of Singapore's land is utilised as catchment areas, pollution caused by people and industrial discharge is likely to find its way into the reservoirs. It is important that we minimise such pollution. Sir, as noted by Dr Ong, the Marina Reservoir once completed will be a freshwater lake which will be created with the completion of the Marina Barrage. While we are confident that the raw water collected can be treated to high drinking standards with advanced membrane technology, the challenge, as noted by Dr Ong, will be to ensure that the water is good for recreational and other lifestyle activities. Once the Marina Barrage is built, the basin will be free from the influence of the ocean tides and ideal for various water activities. So we need to ensure that water flowing into the basin is not polluted. PUB is working together with other agencies to draw up a comprehensive programme to tighten pollution control, and with industries on housekeeping measures to manage pollution. In 2006, we will reinforce our efforts in two key areas. Firstly, we will continue to upgrade the sewerage network system to minimise sewer leakages.”
“Sir, over the years, Singapore has diversified its resources of water supply. We will not be negotiating with Malaysia for extension of one of the water agreements when it lapses in 2011 - I refer to the 1961 Water Agreement. I therefore wish to ask the Minister on the success of our water diversification programme and whether in the long run, we ourselves can be fully self-sufficient and self-reliant in water supplies. Sir, with the Marina Reservoir, we will have urban catchment areas for water. It is good to enlarge our water supplies. Last Sunday, I had the privilege of taking a cruise by boat of the Marina area, and it is beautiful. We must keep it beautiful. We must ensure that the water collected is of high quality and is usable for drinking and recreational purposes. Lastly, I also wish to ask the Minister how successful is our water conservation effort in reducing water consumption in Singapore. Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Sir, I wish to thank Dr Amy Khor and Dr Ong for their questions. 2005 has been a significant year in Singapore's water history. In September 2005, our Prime Minister turned on our fourth National Tap with the opening of SingSpring's desalination plant in Tuas. Our first three National Taps are water from local catchment, imported water from Johor, and NEWater. I am pleased to inform the House that our ongoing projects to increase supply from our local reservoirs are progressing well. By 2009, when the various reservoir schemes are completed, our catchment area will increase from half to two-thirds of Singapore's land area. Dr Ong Chit Chung asked about our strategy to secure sufficient water for Singapore. Sir, with all four National Taps now in place, we are well-placed to meet our future water needs.”
“Sir, National Service has been shortened to two years. This is much welcomed by National Servicemen and their families. I wish to ask MINDEF whether there are any hitches in implementing this two-year policy; in particular, whether it has affected the operational readiness of the SAF. Sir, does this two-year policy lead to any consequential changes in the granting of deferment or early disruption for further studies? We have come across many such requests and problems at the meet-the-people sessions. I understand that it is now more difficult to get deferment or early disruption. Sir, I watched the HBO series "Band of Brothers" recently, which vividly portrays how a company of paratroopers fought in Europe during World War II - how they bonded together as brothers in arms and how they overcame all odds. This, to my mind, Sir, is what National Service is about. It is the bonding that will stand the test of time. It is this camaraderie that will hold the unit together in times of war and operation. I, therefore, believe this series should be viewed by all National Servicemen and be used as a training tool.”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, this House has debated on numerous occasions on training and safety in the SAF. When a tragic accident occurs, we grieve for the loss of a precious life and ask if the incident could be prevented. MINDEF has continuously reviewed the procedures and tightened the safety measures. The General Staff Inspectorate has been strengthened for more safety audits. Yet, the incidents occur. Why? A recent case was the drowning of Second Serjeant Ong Kia Hwee off the Changi Naval Base. The AG's Chambers has found that there were no legal grounds for proceeding against the four instructors and the case is referred back to MINDEF for review under military law. May I ask MINDEF on the outcome of the review? More importantly, could such an incident be prevented and lives saved? Sir, over all, MINDEF faces the dilemma of walking the tight rope, trying to balance the concern of safety and the operational requirement of training our National Servicemen for war. It is a tough act. I would like to ask MINDEF how does it overcome this dilemma. Are there better measures to enhance safety in training and to improve the culture of safety in our units? How does the SAF fare in terms of casualty in training when compared to other armed forces?”
“Sir, after 911, the strategic landscape in South East Asia has changed significantly. New challenges emerged. There could be more low-intensity operations, anti-hijack operations, search and rescue operations and targeted strikes against terrorists. There are also potential threats in chemical and biological warfare. While preparing itself for conventional warfare, is the SAF also geared up for these new threats? As these operations would involve other Government agencies and civil resources, how is MINDEF coordinating and managing these issues? Sir, the Straits of Malacca is another strategic point of concern. Clear passage in this sea lane is of crucial importance to the trade and security of Singapore. May I ask what is the outcome of the multi-national patrols of the Straits of Malacca? And are there any additional measures to ensure safe passage in this vital sea lane? Sir, the SAF has good relations with the armed forces of neighbouring countries, and this defence diplomacy helps in times of crisis. May I ask if the SAF will further strengthen the defence ties and use the goodwill to promote more bilateral training and exercises? Sir, all Singaporeans, I am sure, will agree that we should recognise the contributions of our National Servicemen, including those who have completed full-time National Service while still doing in-camp training. RECORD IV has made a series of recommendations. What is MINDEF's response to these recommendations? Are the recommendations being followed up and acted upon?”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, last year, MND announced the Design, Build and Sell Scheme (DBSS) which allows the private sector to design, build and market HDB apartments in selected precincts. I welcome this innovative scheme. It is an attractive scheme for buyers, as the resale levy has been waived. May I ask whether a developer has been awarded a DBSS tender? Further, will the price of these DBSS apartments be kept affordable? The potential buyers are expecting good designs and finishes, better than the HDB norm, while the private developer may wish to maximise his returns. Will there be a mismatch of expectations? Sir, under HDB rules, upgraders are eligible for HDB mortgage loans, but downgraders are denied HDB loans. This is rather irrational, as many who downgrade are doing so out of desperation, as they are in financial difficulties. The banks may also not extend loans to them, especially if they are bankrupt. Will MND then review this and genuinely help the downgraders?”
“The protest against Mr Thaksin escalated when Mr Thaksin's family sold his controlling stake in Shin Corp to Temasek Holdings. May I ask the Minister for his reading of the Thai situation and whether the anger and protest against Mr Thaksin will turn against Temasek Holdings or Singapore, and thereby affects Singapore-Thai relations? In Muslim Southern Thailand, insurgency is rampant. Thousands have lost their lives. There are separatists, Muslim groups, working to carve a separatist Muslim state. Even Mr Thaksin himself declared some areas there to be the most dangerous place in Thailand. May I ask the Minister whether the situation in Southern Thailand will get worse and how it will affect Thai-Malaysia relations, and Singapore's interests in the long run? Myanmar”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, when Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi became the Prime Minister of Malaysia, there was much hope and hype in the media that relations between Singapore and Malaysia would improve significantly. There is, no doubt, Sir, that the atmosphere has definitely improved. There are many visits by leaders from both sides of the Causeway as well as many friendly golf games. But substantive issues in relations between Singapore and Malaysia remain unresolved. A case in point is the "crooked bridge". Malaysia appears to be adamant and insistent on building the "crooked bridge" to replace the Causeway, or at least half the Causeway. MFA has confirmed that Singapore has sent a Third-Party Note on 27th January 2006 seeking clarification on the process of bilateral relations and negotiations and Malaysia's position on the half-bridge. May I ask if Malaysia has replied to this Third-Party Note? What is Singapore's position if Malaysia insisted on building the half bridge without consulting Singapore or taking into the consideration the impact on Singapore? 5.00 pm Sir, sometime ago, Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi said that in terms of Singapore-Malaysia relations, there were low-lying fruits which could be plucked easily. We need not be held back. May I ask the Minister what are these low-lying fruits and have any been plucked or any going to be plucked soon? Thailand Sir, the Thai Prime Minister, Mr Thaksin Shinawatra has dissolved Parliament and called a snap general election. Mr Thaksin, leader of the Thai Rak Thai Party, wants to go to the people for a new mandate. But some Opposition parties are boycotting the elections. There is a sense of drift in Thai politics and tension is high.”
“I, therefore, urge the Government not to hesitate any more but take the bold step forward and sound the death knell for estate duty. Sir, I support the Budget.”
“Unlike Mr Steve Chia who wants to cut most of the taxes, I will confine here to the discussion of one tax, and this is a tax not when we are alive but a tax when we are dead, ie, estate duty. There is a common saying that, in life, we cannot escape taxes or death. But now, even after death, we cannot escape from the taxman. The hope of many was dashed, at least for the time being, when estate duty was not abolished on Budget day. The Government says that it should reach a decision by the next Budget. But the people are saying that we are waiting too long - tan jin ku. May I ask why is the Government dragging its feet when Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, and even Malaysia, our next door neighbour, have abolished estate duty? Singapore prides itself as being visionary and farsighted. But now it seems we are lagging behind. I would like to ask the Government whether the abolition of estate duty in Hong Kong, for example, will make Hong Kong even more competitive than Singapore in attracting foreign talent, foreign investments and funds. Further, why are we perpetuating a skewed limit of $9 million for residential properties and $600,000 limit for all other assets? Would it not encourage disproportionate purchase of residential property? If it is so skewed, why not simply do away with estate duty once and for all? Sir, the process of getting estate duty clearance upon the death of a relative is cumbersome, time consuming and tedious. It takes months, and sometimes even years, to get clearance. It is quite a hassle for the surviving relatives to search for records, bank statements and share transactions. It is indeed difficult to seek clarification, as the deceased is no longer there to help clear enquiries. It is very difficult for the families.”
“R&D is the cradle for new technology and innovative products that will give our economy the cutting edge. It will be an engine for growth, and will bring Singapore to a higher level of economic development. My question is whether the Government has set up an apparatus to evaluate stringently the R&D proposals from companies, monitor their progress and performance and assess their results systematically. Further, I wish to ask whether these companies, which benefit from the R&D grants, will be prepared to anchor themselves long term in Singapore. Sir, I also welcome the setting up of the Enterprise Development Centres and the EnterpriseOne Portal. These are good measures which will help the SMEs. I know the Government is trying its level best to help SMEs, and there are many initiatives and programmes spread out in many agencies. But there is no central coordinating agency which devotes its energies and resources to the SMEs. We need, therefore, an agency with the drive, the commitment and the passion for SMEs. The MNCs have a big brother in the EDB, which does an excellent job of attracting foreign investments for Singapore year after year. EDB cuts through the red tape and assists these MNCs to establish themselves. Why not an EDB-like agency for SMEs? SMEs are the backbone of the local economy, and strong and flourishing SMEs will generate growth and create jobs for Singaporeans. The SMEs of today can, with the right support and programmes, be the MNCs of tomorrow. SMEs, therefore, deserve an agency, and it would be good for Singapore. SMEs are like Cinderellas. I hope the Government would soon send a prince charming and transform Cinderella into a princess for the betterment of Singapore.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, thank you for allowing me to join in the debate. First of all, I want to declare my interest as a person from the private sector. Sir, I wish to commend the Government for a most generous Budget. There is something for every Singaporean. It is a people's Budget. Above all, it demonstrates the sincerity and commitment of the Government in helping senior citizens and low-income families. It is indeed the best Budget in years, and the Government deserves the praise and support of all Singaporeans, including Opposition Members. Therefore, I heard with amazement the hon. Member, Mr Steve Chia's call to abolish or lower taxes like licence fees and levies and, at the same time, advocating more and more give-aways and freebies. Now, who will pay for all these? Without sufficient taxes or revenue, such things cannot be sustained. It is, in my mind, a recipe for disaster. Does Mr Steve Chia know that Singapore will end up a bankrupt country? This is not what we want. It will be a sad day indeed if our Treasury becomes empty. Sir, the ground is abuzz with anticipation and excitement, unlike what the Opposition says. The Ah Peks and the Ah Ems are particularly happy that the Government is sincerely looking after their interests. Singaporeans are convinced that we have a very good Government. Even if you go round the world and search, I am sure you cannot find a better government! It is a Government that has given Singapore security, racial harmony and prosperity. And the Government could only achieve this because it has the support of the people. Sir, I welcome the Government's allocation of $5 billion for the R&D Trust Fund. This is a right move that will generate economic growth and create new jobs for Singaporeans.”
“Sir, may I ask the Deputy Prime Minister when will he expect the Committee to submit its report?”
“Otherwise, we will lose the support of our National Servicemen, and without the commitment and sacrifices of our National Servicemen, we will not be able to defend Singapore. It will really be a sad case. 4.25 pm”
“My two sons have done their National Service. When Melvyn Tan's case hit the headlines, many Singaporeans who have done National Service asked, "Was Melvyn Tan given special consideration because he was famous, rich and talented?" If so, this clearly violates the principle of universality of service and sacrifice. Many who have done National Service cried foul. They asked, and rightfully so, if the sacrifices of National Service are only worth the paltry sum of $3,000. Does it mean that one can get away and abscond from National Service with the mere payment of $3,000? It would be manifestly unfair to those who have done their National Service and served the nation with honour and pride. Should there not be a mandatory jail sentence for those who have absconded for a number of years? Where is the sense of fair play and fairness? Sir, I wish to make a comparison. Those who dutifully enlisted for National Service but thereafter go AWOL for some reason or other, are liable to be sentenced to jail in detention barracks, which I understand to be tougher than a civilian prison. On the other hand, the public's impression following Melvyn Tan's case is that those who do not even bother to enlist for NS can escape with a fine. Sir, there are about 100 unresolved cases of NS defaulters a year. This is worrisome. I therefore urge MINDEF to address this issue, especially the universality of service and sacrifice in National Service, and plug the obvious loophole. National Service is an institution too important to be undermined. I urge our Government to press for custodial jail sentence for those NS defaulters who abscond for more than two years.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, thank you for allowing me to join in the debate. Sir, 40 years ago, Singapore separated from Malaysia and became an independent nation. It was the most difficult of times. If we had failed, we would have had to go back to Malaysia on bended knees. We struggled, we persevered, and we were determined to succeed. Failure was not in our vocabulary. Sir, to succeed as an independent nation, we had to establish a credible defence force from scratch. We cannot depend on foreigners to defend our own country, like we had relied on the British in World War II, and everybody knew it was a disaster. What we cannot defend and hold will not be ours. Singaporeans must therefore bear arms to defend our own homeland. There is no choice. Sir, can we defend Singapore by raising an armed forces comprising solely of regulars? Obviously not. It will be almost impossible to recruit and retain a significant armed force of regulars and keep it young and relevant and representative of our population. Hence, National Service was introduced. Inherent and enshrined in National Service is the principle of universality of service and sacrifice. All eligible male Singaporeans serve two years full time - whether you are rich or poor, privileged or ordinary, a university graduate or a school drop-out. And, indeed, some sacrificed their lives, as there were fatal casualties in training. We have debated many times in this House about safety in training and casualties. We all know this. I remember vividly when two National Servicemen from my son's artillery batallion died in an exercise in New Zealand many years ago. Sir, over the years, National Service has become accepted as part of the Singaporean's way of life. I have done my National Service.”
“Mr Speaker, I want to ask the Minister whether there are any comparable data of other armed forces on similar cases of heart attacks and whether there is research done by these foreign armed forces, which we can learn from.”
“But we must make preparations. That is what NSCS, together with all our security agencies, has been doing all of these years. Also, organisations, like SCDF and the Police, will be organising events in constituencies in order to bring home to Singaporeans the need for them to take part in ensuring our National Security and what they can do. The Ministry of Home Affairs has, for example, started this campaign to have "Be Ready" bags which contain a radio, torchlight and some basic medical aids. I think this is a very good move. We should make those "Be Ready" bags available to every household in Singapore. It is a visible sign of the need to protect ourselves, not by the Government, but by every Singaporean family. I hope that when the Ministry of Home Affairs, SCDF, Police and SAF launch these campaigns, Members will participate fully and, in that way, we will always be sure that Singaporeans will remain vigilant and that, as I said, if something does happen, we will not panic. But we will be able to handle the incident in a way which does credit to Singapore as we have done with SARS. The test of our people comes not in good times when everything is going on well. The test of our people comes in difficult times when you are faced with a challenge. Do you fold up and give up? Do you rise up to the occasion, face the challenge squarely, overcome it and then move on? And we must move on. Otherwise, there is no Singapore.”