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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“It would be a waste of our precious national human resources if this group of Singaporeans is left out. Workers, too, must have the aptitude and thirst for retraining and upgrading. With the rapid pace of technological change, workers will have to re-learn and retrain many times over in the course of their careers. Sir, one half of our population is female. In view of our limited resources and talent pool, we should all the more make full use of woman power and talent. We have top women bankers like Mrs Theresa Foo of Standard Chartered Bank, top hoteliers like Ms Jennie Chua of Raffles Hotel, top accountant like Mrs Fang Ai Lian, Managing Partner of Ernst & Young, and Ambassador to the United States of America, Prof. Chan Heng Chee. Now we have a woman Permanent Secretary in Ms Lim Soo Hoon in the Ministry of Community Development. I hope the list will grow. It makes no sense for us not to make full use of woman power for the betterment of the country. If I may add too, we should have more woman MPs in this House to liven up the debates. Sir, the regional turbulence and upheavals have proven, beyond doubt, the wisdom of allocating a significant portion of our resources for defence and security. The regional crisis underlines the crucial importance of total defence and National Service. Without creditable defence and deterrence, we will be at the mercy of others. If we are defenceless, others will just walk in, and we will have to bow to their every whim and fancy. My sons who are National Service officers told me that National Servicemen take their training seriously. And with apologies to the Minister for Education for speaking Singlish, they say, "Don't pray, pray, this is serious business." And they do take their training seriously.”
“Sir, as we overcome the latest economic crisis and cross over to the new millennium, we must be no less vigilant, no less ready to defend our sovereignty, and be even more competitive and creative in ideas as well as technology. While the crisis was on, there was gloom and doom. My point is, now that the crisis is receding, we must not swing to the other extreme of euphoria. It is a marathon. The race is not over. There can always be another storm or typhoon. Singapore has a small population and talent pool. Hence, manpower development and training are crucial to us. I am glad that the Government is focusing on this in Manpower 21. It saddens me when I go to the ground and meet ordinary Singaporeans who are unskilled or semi-skilled, who could not fit into our fast-moving knowledge-based economy. They are indeed at a loss. Many are still looking in vain for their unskilled jobs that have gone off in the restructuring, and are no more there for them. We must therefore do all we can to train and retrain this group of Singaporeans, many of whom are in their 40s and above. We can have more retraining and upgrading courses for them in languages that they understand or are conversant in. Most of them are main breadwinners themselves. So ways have to be found to keep them going while they are undergoing training, either on-the-job training or sponsored full-time courses and in ITE courses, as suggested by Dr Vasoo. Employers should change their mindsets and be more pro-active in training and retraining, in particular towards older workers. Many older workers are indeed very discouraged and disappointed when they are told by employers that they are too old, or the time is past for them, for training. Such attitudes must change.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, thank you for allowing me to join in this debate. Sir, I rise in support of the motion standing in the name of Mr Davinder Singh, thanking the President for his Address. Sir, the regional economic crisis has severely tested our economic resilience, political resolve and social bonds. It was indeed a harrowing experience. We can now say, with a sigh of relief, that we have turned the corner. With our sound economic policies and management, non-corrupt and good Government, and the willingness of the people to take the CPF cuts and make the necessary sacrifices, we have passed the test. We have obviously done better than many other countries in the region. There is a closer bonding between the people and the Government, a new sense of purpose, a new vitality and vigour, as we march in the 21st century. But we are not out of the woods yet. We still have some distance to cover. We are affected by what happens in the other countries in the region. The fundamentals have not changed. We are a small country, a prized strategic hub in a very turbulent region, with the need to defend ourselves against any predators, with a small population and a small talent pool, and a small economy that is vulnerable to global economic swings and cycles. Sir, the fault lines remain, whatever some may say. Issues of race and religion can still ignite and fan the emotions. Let us not pretend that these issues do not matter and have no impact on our lives. We should be aware of these fault lines and make sure they do not entrap us. With this in mind, we can do our utmost to promote and uphold multi-racial and multi-religious harmony in our schools, workplaces and neighbourhood. I agree fully with my colleague, Dr Vasoo, that we must all build up this multi-racial heritage.”
“EXEMPTED BUSINESS (Motion) Resolved, That the proceedings on the item of business under discussion be exempted at this day's sitting from the provisions of Standing Order No. 1 - [Mr Wong Kan Seng]. SINGAPORE 21 (Motion) Debate resumed.”
“How many of us, for example, remember the five core values of Shared Values, which were debated in this House in 1991? Honestly, I could not remember all the details. I have to hurry to the Library to dig out the five core values in order to incorporate it. Incidentally, the five core values, for the record, are: Nation before community and society above self. Family as the basic unit of society. Regard and community support for the individual. Consensus instead of contention. Racial and religious harmony. Sir, therefore, the real test of S21, that is the point I want to make, is whether any one of us could remember what it is all about in a couple of years' time. This is why I say if we are serious about S21, we should revise it and incorporate elements of Shared Values and National Education, and have a national civic body, or even a non-government body, to chart its course and promote it. S21 is our compass for the 21st century, and this compass will only work well and guide us to the right path if it is founded on the fundamentals of Singapore and the geopolitics of the region. Putting aside our different approaches, at the end of the day, S21 is about ownership of Singapore, S21 is about passion for Singapore, S21 is about commitment to Singapore. As Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong said in his National Day Rally speech in 1996, "You have to feel passionately about Singapore. Being Singaporean should resonate in our hearts and minds." If S21 helps us to feel passionately about Singapore, it is worth it. Let us together then make it happen, and make the difference for Singapore, for our children and future generations of Singaporeans. Sir, I support the motion.”
“This balance has strengthened social cohesion, and enabled Singaporeans to pull together to surmount difficult challenges collectively, more successfully than other societies. An emphasis on the community has been a key survival value for Singapore. We should preserve and strengthen it." While strengthening communitarianism, the "Shared Values" paper recognises that the individual also has rights which should be respected, and therefore added another core value: "Regard and Community Support for the Individual". Sir, in the end, it is a matter of accommodation and a matter of balance. S21 should address this and put it in perspective. Otherwise, individual interests may loom larger than community and national interests. In the civil society, where active citizens participate fully in all sectors and make a difference to society, civic groups, charitable organisations, clans, and non-government organisations, all have relevant and unique roles to play. Each group has special and significant contributions to make and no doubt can make a difference to society, provided they are not self-interested and not blinded and obsessed by self-interests. We should not support those who use civic groups as hobby horses to advance their own selfish interests. We have, over the years, a quick succession of strategic roadmaps or compasses. In 1984, we had `Vision 1999'; in 1991, we had `Shared Values'; and last year, the National Education Programme was in full swing with the Singapore Story Exhibition. And now Singapore 21. Each of these, I must say, has its specific purposes. But it is all rather bewildering to the man-in-the-street. What is the way forward to the 21st century? How could we sell S21 to the people? How do we make sense of S21?”
“Racial and religious harmony is precious. It must not be taken for granted. It does not just happen. We have to work at it constantly, day in and day out, in our place of work, in our neighbourhood and in our very own homes. Racial and religious harmony is fragile. Agent provocateurs or some disgruntled and misguided fundamentalists or chauvinists could easily stir the pot and arouse the emotions. We must, Sir, at the same time, commend the S21 Committee for taking the open and consultative approach, and for reaching out and touching base with 6,000 Singaporeans. This is the bottom-up approach and consultation at its best, and is indeed laudable and very welcome. Some members of the public are glad and detected a shift in S21 towards a more open society, and a trend towards giving more space to individuals, with the battle cry of "Every Singaporean matters". Every Singaporean is precious and matters. His views matter. His interests matter, and his contributions matter. One can say that it is one for all and all for one. Together, we make the difference. We make the difference for our families, for our society, and for our nation. But individual interests must be balanced by community interests and national interests. Individual interests must not be allowed to ride roughshod over community and national interests. Sir, in the "Shared Values" paper, which was published and debated in Parliament in 1991, it was clearly stated that one of the five core values is "Nation before community and society above self". The "Shared Values" paper expounded that, and I quote: "Singapore is an Asian society. It has always weighted group interests more heavily than individual ones.”
“Nadesan Chandra, a Singaporean football referee, exemplified the Singaporean non-corrupt ethos, when he rejected a bribe to fix a match in Kuwait in 1987, and he said: 'It is just not Singaporean to be corrupt. Taking "dirty money" has never been my cup of tea. I am proud that I reacted and behaved like a genuine Singaporean.' We, in Singapore, are clearly and absolutely against corruption. We would have no part in such corrupt practices. And it is this clean government policy that won us the investments and helped us to create jobs for our people. A clean government is able to lead with authority, sincerity and is able to inspire and galvanize the people, who will respond to calls for sacrifices and belt-tightening in times of crisis, as during this economic downturn. But it is a constant battle of vigilance and of conviction. Surely this deserves to be enshrined in S21, as an intrinsic and integral part of our Singaporean way of life, and not just mentioned in passing. Sir, it is even more critical to highlight, emphasise and reinforce racial and religious harmony, rather than just mentioning it again in passing. Racial and religious harmony is vital. It is the very foundation for our internal cohesion, bonding and indeed prosperity. Without it, everything else will fail and fall. Lest we forget, there were the Maria Hertogh riots of 1950, the racial riots of 1964 and across the Causeway, the May 13th riots of 1969, which had spillover effects on Singapore during that time. I remember I was a first-year student in the university. Outside the campus, there were soldiers in uniform with their rifles ever ready to patrol the streets. Further afield, there are racial and religious conflicts in Sri Lanka, Lebanon, Bosnia, Yugoslavia and Indonesia, nearby.”
“It states: 'They are ideals that we strive for, to add to the timeless ones we already hold as a nation - meritocracy, clean government, racial and religious harmony.' Sir, I beg to differ on this point. It is an exaggeration and a misplaced optimism, to catapult and categorise clean government, racial and religious harmony as the "timeless ones". This "timeless" quality or qualification seems to suggest that they are given or solidly anchored in the context of Singapore. If we believe they are, we are sadly mistaken. Clean government and racial and religious harmony are not given. They are far from being internalised or institutionalised. It will be a mistake to presume or pretend that they are. The Chew Swee Kee scandal, involving the then Minister for Education and $700,000 of "political gift", helped to bring down the Lim Yew Hock government and propelled the PAP into power in the 1959 General Elections. The PAP, elected into government, proceeded to fulfil its election manifesto and made clean government a touchstone and unshakable pillar of the Government. From time to time, erring officials are taken to task. It is not plain sailing. We have to keep an eye on things, especially when in some other countries, to be on the take is part of the political culture. It is an intrinsic part of their system. Sir, I met some officials from another country and was told that being elected is a ticket to wealth and prosperity. You need funds to get elected in the first instance. After you get elected, you need to repay your benefactors, and the gate is wide open for patronage, for lining your own pockets. This is indeed a contagious environment for greed and corruption.”
“Sir, may I ask: what can be done to change this mindset and make Singapore 21 part and parcel of the Singaporean way of life? In a recent interview, RAdm Teo Chee Hean was reported to have said in the papers that S21 has no target, no set programme and no agency to drive its implementation. I want to ask how then can we measure the success or otherwise of S21? How then can S21 touch the hearts of Singaporeans, reach all sectors of Singaporean society, and be the cornerstone of Singaporean society? Things do not just happen overnight. The fact that S21 is formulated and debated indicates that it needs to be crystallised and be given a push. We need a facilitator. We need an organising genius. We need an agency with the resources and the network to connect up the people, to uphold and keep the vision alive in the hearts and in the heartland, in particular. Sir, Singapore, in reality, is a city state, not a nation, with a big population or a big hinterland. We are the Sparta and Athens of the East. Singapore is a city state with a tiny piece of property and a small multi-racial population, surrounded by much bigger neighbours. We must not forget that. Yesterday, the Prime Minister put this issue in perspective in this House. We have to compete fiercely in order to survive. We have to make ourselves useful to the world in order to survive, while at the same time dedicate enormous resources to defence and security. Debates on values, priorities, aspirations and OB markers must take into account these fundamental parameters governing Singapore. We cannot run away from the strategic imperatives. Sir, in the preface to the text of S21, it is proclaimed that the five ideas, arising from the five dilemmas, form a vision for the future.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I support the motion on Singapore 21. No one in his right mind would oppose S21. No one would want to oppose the clear-cut, wholesome, motherhood statements. To oppose would be like turning against what is good. Of course, it need not necessarily mean that motherhood statements could not be the powerhouse of ideas nor that it could not be the mother of all visions. It can be all that and more. The pertinent question is: does it mean that it is widely accepted on the ground and permeates through Singaporean society? Honestly, not. Not being opposed is one thing. It is another to be rooted and anchored in the hearts and minds of Singaporeans, in the souls of all Singaporeans. Sir, it is yet to be etched and ingrained in the collective will and psyche of the people of Singapore. I asked some grassroots leaders and residents about S21. It is of not much interest to them. Some have not heard about it. In the kopi tiam, they are not bothered, honestly. They say, boh chap. It is not a bread and butter issue to them. They are all too busy making a living for themselves. Others could not understand. It is too chim, too deep for them. Liak boh kew, they say. It is too abstract, philosophical and perplexing. They are indeed put on the horns of dilemmas, when we talk about the five dilemmas. One told me that it is like the literati talking to the literati, and it is of no concern to the ordinary folks in the street. This may not, of course, reflect everything and not an entirely accurate summary, but it is a perception on the ground. Some say, please, talk as much as you want on S21, but remember do not be like NATO - No Action Talk Only. What they are more interested in is what happens after this.”
“Sir, I think we had a very fruitful discussion on foreign affairs. I want to thank the Minister, the Minister of State and the Senior Parliamentary Secretary. I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $117,147,650 for Head O ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. The sum of $77,103,900 for Head O ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates.”
“Sir, I will be brief. First, I want to say that we are in full support of the United Nations, but it will be very naive for Mr Jeyaretnam to claim the other day that the UN will be our first line of defence. We still need, paramount of all, as demonstrated in the Second World War, our own defence, and a very strong SAF. The UN can be a forum. The UN can be a back-up, but never the front line for Singapore. I just want to ask the Minister whether he will tell us what are the technical cooperation schemes between Singapore and the other countries. How can we help the other countries, since we have benefited so much in so many areas?”
“Sir, despite all the criticisms, pot shots and snide remarks, the United Nations is here to stay. It simply could not be wished away. Neither is there any viable substitute to replace the United Nations. It has indeed established itself as a world body for all countries, big and small. It allows small nations like Singapore a forum on the world stage. It is a good place to network, to make representation, to air views and to train diplomats. Singapore is active at the UN and is bidding for a seat on the UN Security Council for the year 2001. I wish to ask the Minister for his assessment of Singapore's role at the United Nations; whether Singapore will play an even more active role in the UN Peace-keeping Missions; whether Singapore is on track in our bid for the Security Council seat; and what are our chances of securing such a seat.”
“Sir, Singapore has taken a strong position at the Sixth ASEAN Summit in Hanoi over the timing of Cambodia's admission into ASEAN. Can the Minister please explain why Singapore has objected to the full admission of Cambodia at the Hanoi Summit? What is the latest status regarding Cambodia's desire to become a member of ASEAN? Sir, can I move on to the next cut?”
“Sir, Singapore has taken over the chairmanship of the ASEAN Standing Committee and the ASEAN Regional Forum, two key appointments within ASEAN, just when the region is undergoing tremendous economic difficulties and crisis. These are trying times indeed: times of tension and stress. There is, unfortunately, emerging a perception that ASEAN has failed collectively in not being able to tackle and surmount the regional economic crisis. There is also a perception that ASEAN is in disarray, lacking in unity, lacking in cohesion, and lacking in direction, especially after President Suharto stepped down from office. This has been fuelled by the emergence of bilateral issues and disputes between ASEAN member countries. I wish to ask the Minister for his views and assessment on ASEAN and what Singapore's expectations are in our role as Chairman of the ASEAN Standing Committee and the ASEAN Regional Forum. In the wider context, ASEAN and the European Union have a long established relationship, which has benefited both sides. Can the Minister explain why this relationship is now in jeopardy over a number of issues? What can we do to address this issue and improve the relationship amongst the blocs?”
“Sir, Singapore and Australia have a long-standing relationship, a deep and, I may say, abiding relationship, over many, many years. In World War II, Australia sent its servicemen to defend Singapore. Some died in the field, never to return home. And many were later imprisoned at Changi. And in the post-war era, Australia is our strong partner in defence through the Five Power Defence Arrangement. The economic ties between Singapore and Australia are strong and growing day by day. Just weeks ago, the Singapore Australia Joint Ministerial Committee held its meeting in Singapore, and shortly after, Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong visited Australia himself. I wish to ask the Minister to brief this House on the significance and outcome of the recent Singapore Australia Joint Ministerial Committee meeting and the visit of Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong to Australia.”
“Sir, on what we have discussed just now, I think it should be clear to the policy-makers in Kuala Lumpur, and also in Jakarta, that Singapore and Singaporeans want to have good relations with our neighbouring countries, but on an equal basis and as sovereign nations, and as good partners within ASEAN. Moving on, Sir, in terms of Singapore-Thai relations, I want to say that Singapore-Thai relations have been warm and very constructive, and beneficial to both sides. There has been recognition by Singaporeans and Thais that we have much to learn from each other, and much to gain in cooperation and partnership in the region. In early February 1999, the Minister for Foreign Affairs led a delegation of senior officials from the Singapore Civil Service to attend a meeting with their Thai counterparts in Bangkok. Would the Minister brief the House on the outcome of this meeting and other recent initiatives to expand bilateral cooperation with Thailand? What are the steps that have been taken to realise the vision of a Singapore-Thailand Enhanced Partnership, which has been called or abbreviated as STEP, that the Prime Minister launched during his official visit to Thailand in June 1997? I hope the Minister will give us a step-by-step account of this bilateral relationship. Sir, can I go on to the next amendment?”
“I would therefore like to ask the Minister whether any steps or plans have been put in place to ensure the protection and safety of our own Singaporeans in Indonesia in any new unexpected turn of event in the country.”
“Sir, Singapore's relationship with Indonesia has undergone many changes since President Suharto stepped down from office. We want to be a friend of Indonesia. Singapore and Indonesia can work together in a mutually beneficial relationship, in a win-win situation in the region. However, Sir, over the last few months, we have heard accusations, one kind or the other, hurled at us by various Indonesian leaders and officials, including President Habibie, his adviser, Dr Dewi Fortuna Anwar, and Cooperatives Minister Adi Sasono. These accusations have ranged from Singapore being "too business-minded", according to Mr Adi Sasono, to being a "fair weather friend", according to Dr Dewi Fortuna Anwar, to being "racist", as alleged by President Habibie. What does the Minister have to say about the state of bilateral relations and how does he see the future development of bilateral relations between the two countries in the context of all these accusations? I would also like to comment on the role that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs played in assisting the departure of large numbers of Singaporeans from Indonesia during the height of the May riots in Indonesia last year. We had then read on a daily basis about the deteriorating situation in various parts of Indonesia and how our MFA officials helped various Singaporeans to get out in time. We must commend and thank the MFA officials and diplomats for extending such timely and much appreciated assistance to Singaporeans. Many Singaporeans with families and friends there, I am sure, will join us in thanking MFA and the diplomats. As part of our regionalisation efforts to set up a second wing, many Singaporeans have no choice but are still working in Indonesia.”
“Sir, Singapore and Malaysia are close neighbours, with a long history of relationship, having been subject to the same British colonial rule. And the two close neighbours have a fair share of ups and downs in this complex web of relationship. I wish to ask the Minister for an update on the recent developments in our bilateral relationships with Malaysia, especially in view of the MFA press statement of 19th February 1999, stating that the Malaysian Government had met Singapore's concerns over the sovereignty and other legal issues pertaining to the Malaysian CIQ presence in Singapore. The Singaporean and Malaysian teams have met, I understand, on the package of outstanding issues. May I ask what are the issues in this "package"? When would the two teams meet again? What is the Minister's assessment of the discussion, and can we expect a speedy and successful resolution to these on-going negotiations?”
“Sir, I beg to move, That the total sum to be allocated for Head O of the Main Estimates be reduced by $100. Sir, the past year had turned out to be a watershed year for the Asia-Pacific region. It was indeed a horrible year of unprecedented upheavels and unmitigated turmoil. The region has not seen anything like this before in the post-war era. Leaders are helpless and hapless. People are at a loss. People are angry and frustrated. Nations are in search of new destinies. Almost the whole region is at sea, so to speak, in a sea of troubles. The strategic situation in the region has changed. The balance of power has shifted. There are new paradigms in the strategic situation. How can then a small country, like Singapore, position itself in this sea change, and be nimble, not only to survive, but also to succeed and prosper? I wish to ask the Minister for an analysis of the strategic situation in the region. What would be the interests, roles and impact of big powers like the United States, the People's Republic of China, Japan, and the European Community as a whole, on our region? What meaningful roles can Singapore, as a small country, play to help promote stability and growth in the region?”
“Sir, I want to the thank the DPM and the Ministers for their comprehensive replies and we are reassured that the defence of Singapore is in good hands. Sir, I beg to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $6,650,000,000 for Head K ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. The sum of $620,000,000 for Head K ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. Head S -”
“Thank you. Sir, in its report presented to Parliament on 30th November 1998, the Public Accounts Committee highlighted that in recent years, and I quote, "The Report of the Auditor-General disclosed many instances of non-compliance with prescribed financial control procedures and other lapses in the Ministry of Defence. The number of instances taken together and their recurrence convey a disturbing picture of the lack of control-consciousness in the Ministry. This is dangerous as it increases exposure to fraud and corruption." Sir, of particular concern is the laxity in tender and procurement procedures at MINDEF. For example, officers involved in procurement should know that placing fax machines designated for receiving competitive bids in the open areas could lead to leakage of price sensitive information. There were also instances of wrong payment for in-camp training to National Servicemen and lack of proper accounting for fund-raising activities for charities. The Auditor-General, in his Report for the Financial Year 1996/97, has also pointed out that the MINDEF tender boxes were opened before the closing date of the tender and the 13 tenders submitted after the closing date were considered even though they did not fall within the special cases allowed by the Ministry of Finance. Sir, MINDEF receives the largest budget allocation every year. This we fully support and endorse. At the same time, MINDEF must ensure that it is money well spent. There must be strict budgetary control and full compliance with all Government procurement procedures and tender procedures. Anything short of this would not be acceptable. I therefore wish to ask the Minister what steps have MINDEF taken to ensure such full compliance and whether any progress has been made in this matter.”
“Sir, the declared policy of the SAF is to keep the SAF young and fighting fit. Towards this end, there is a cap on the length of service, and regular officers and servicemen retire at a younger age. Thereafter, the officers and servicemen would start their second careers. Almost all officers and servicemen would start second careers as life spans have increased and the national retirement age has been raised progressively. Furthermore, such officers and servicemen have very good skills indeed, which can be harnessed in civvy streets. 3.45 pm As it is the policy to keep the SAF young, MINDEF also has the obligation to prepare and assist the servicemen in their transit to second careers, especially now that the economy is not doing well and jobs are hard to come by. I therefore wish to ask the Minister what measures has MINDEF taken to assist our servicemen in their transit to second careers, and whether our servicemen leaving the SAF are able to find jobs or have meaningful and rewarding second careers. Sir, can I go on to the next cut?”
“Sir, every year, we only have so many able-bodied men in each cohort for enlistment into National Service. Available manpower is thereby limited. This is compounded by the low rate of birth in our population, and the fact that the SAF has to depend on and recruit from Singaporean male citizens and second-generation PRs. Overall, with so many competing demands for the national pool of talents, the SAF has to fight for its share of top talents in the country. My question for the Minister is whether the SAF is able to meet all its manpower requirements, and what measures are being taken to ensure that the requirements are met, and whether the SAF scholarship schemes, the SAF Study Awards and the other schemes are successful in attracting and retaining a fair share of top talents in the SAF.”
“Sir, Singapore is a small island amidst the seas of Southeast Asia. Small as it is, Singapore is the strategic hub or pivot, straddling the sea lanes from the Indian Ocean and the Straits of Malacca on the one side, and the South China Sea in the east, and the Indonesian archipelago to our south. We are a port and a trading nation. We import and export by sea. The security of the sea lanes and access to the sea lanes are of vital concern to all of us. The sea lanes must therefore be kept open at all times for food and trade. They must not be closed off or controlled or prevailed over by unfriendly forces. The sea lanes should also be protected from piracy of all kinds. There has been a reported increase in sea robberies in the Straits of Singapore. Related to the security of the sea lanes are the claims and counter-claims by various powers over strategic islands in the seas, for example, the Spratly Islands, Paracel Islands and Mischief Reef. There is much mischief, much to our dismay, and which does not bode well for the security of the sea lanes. I therefore wish to ask the Minister for Mindef's assessment of the security of the sea lanes and what are our strategies for ensuring that the sea lanes are kept open for our vital food supplies for trade, and also on the measures to deal with sea robberies in the waters near Singapore.”
“If what is around us in the region is not obvious, we can learn from Machiavelli, the 16th Century strategist from Italy, who studied the unfortunate fate of unprepared city states. His conclusion: "The foundation of a state is a good military organisation." Or we can borrow a leaf from Sun Tzu's Art of War, which emphasises defence preparedness and readiness, and the use of strategic planning and strategies to overwhelm or outwit the opposing side, with the help of balance of power, deterrence and deployment. On 15th February this year, Total Defence Day was observed. This reminded us of 15th February 1942. On that infamous day, the British surrendered to the Japanese at the Ford Factory in Bukit Timah. We trusted the British to defend Singapore. But the British instead surrendered. The lesson of history is that we must defend ourselves. Hence, we must ensure adequate defence budget every year. My question is whether the Minister considers the defence allocations for defence adequate, whether the budget will be used prudently and cost-effectively, and whether the SAF is operationally ready to defend Singapore. In this context, Sir, I wish to ask the Minister to give us his reading of the strategic situation in the region, and outline the possible scenarios that will face us. What are the measures that Mindef is taking to ensure that the SAF is operationally capable and ready to deal with any contingencies that might arise?”
“Sir, I beg to move, That the total sum to be allocated for Head K of the Main Estimates be reduced by $100. Sir, the total defence budget allocation amounts to 5.1% of the GDP, still way below the cap of 6% of GDP set earlier by the Government. No sensible or rational Singaporean will quarrel or object to such allocation for defence. All one has to do is to consider and survey the Asia-Pacific region since the last budget debate we have in this House. It is a region beset and riddled by economic and political crisis of one kind or another. We are now too familiar with such terms as economic meltdown, political upheaval, street riots, currency turmoil, and collapse or near-collapse of governments. Primordial forces have been unleashed. Fault lines have surfaced. There is concern over possible waves of illegal immigrants. Common-sense dictates that we must have a strong defence capability. Otherwise, we would be vulnerable. We would be at the mercy or whim and fancy of others, and then posterity would judge us: that we have failed in our duty to our fellow Singaporeans. We must remember that without a strong defence, there would not be a Singapore. We would not be able to uphold and preserve our Singaporean way of life. The time of regional crisis, I believe, is also a time of reflection, a time of bonding and indeed a time of commitment. I am sure our national servicemen will train even harder; that there is bonding across all ranks; and there is a greater sense of camaraderie and purpose. We can also use this period to sharpen our competitive edge in defence technology and operational skills.”
“Sir, may I ask the Minister whether it is important to highlight the legal points in this case or should it not be subsumed under some overall negotiating position because some members of the public do raise this point? Also, may I ask whether the appointment of the new Foreign Minister, Datuk Syed Hamid Albar would have some impact on the resolution of the CIQ and other bilateral issues?”
“So let us rally behind the Government and go forth as one people to triumph over adversity and conquer the new markets. Sir, I support the motion. Mr Speaker: Order. I suspend the Sitting and will take the Chair again at 3.45 pm. Sitting accordingly suspended at 3.25 pm until 3.45 pm. Sitting resumed at 3.45 pm [Mr Speaker in the Chair] COMMITTEE ON SINGAPORE'S COMPETITIVENESS (Motion) Debate resumed.”
“We should keep the mechanism in place, keep monitoring the trends and be always ahead and be more competitive than our immediate neighbours. I suggest therefore that the Government consider keeping the CSC or some moderated form of the CSC intact, by emplacing it in a Government agency or a think-tank with a resource panel and capacity for economic monitoring and analysis. From time to time, Sir, crisis will come, but such a mechanism can enable us to mark the trends and gear up to tackle the new issues and devise new strategies and formulas. Sir, cost-cutting is only half the story. It would not work if productivity is not raised, if workers are not motivated, if business revenues are not increased, if new businesses are not found, and if new markets are not conquered. All cuts will come to nothing. The business itself will be cut off. The real challenge therefore to Singapore, and Singaporean businessmen in particular, is to find new business, to continue to regionalise and globalise. We need new ideas, new business, new markets and new niches. We must use this crisis to forge a new spirit of entrepreneurship, of daring to do, of never say die, but to fight and survive in this business jungle. Darwin would say the survival of the fittest in the business jungle. I believe Singaporeans can do it. We can make it. We can make it happen. Indeed, this economic crisis provides us with the opportunity to jell as a people as we face the problems squarely and overcome them. It bonds the people and the Government together. We will emerge stronger, with better credit ratings and even more united and determined to make Singapore an attractive place for investment and financial transaction. We are well placed to become the global IT, service and financial hub.”
“This demonstrated Singapore's reputation for long-term planning, a trait that complements Singapore's reputation for efficiency." This is indeed vindication and endorsement of our transparent, non-corrupt, honest system of Government, and our emphasis on talent and meritocracy, where the best and brightest rise to the top in the Government and in business. Newsweek, an international news magazine, reported, and I quote: "Singapore, known for its stable, transparent and clean Government, has managed the financial storm . while remaining a player in the global market. The key: unflappable government officials, long term planning and prudent fiscal policies." According to the South China Morning Post, we compare very well with Hong Kong, our nearest rival. The Hong Kong newspaper contrasted Singapore's free market approach to Hong Kong's decision to intervene in the financial markets. The South China Morning Post commented that Singapore, on the other hand, has won credit for demonstrating a cool, calm and collected response to the region's stormy financial climate and putting in place positive long term structural changes, even as its stock market falls. Sir, the CSC has done a good job. The question is how to ensure that the economic trends are monitored constantly and new measures are devised to meet ever changing circumstances. We must make sure that this tripartite mechanism and relationship forged in the economic crisis is maintained and indeed geared up to meet any new problems so that problems can be nipped in the bud. We should not let such mechanism atrophy. We should not wait around for another crisis before calling for a review and another competitiveness report.”
“Mr Sim calls it the Creative CPF Bonus Plan. I hope other employers will also do likewise and do this creatively. I urge companies that do well and are profitable to reward their workers accordingly. We thank the Government for the cuts and rebates in Government charges, like foreign worker levies, HDB and JTC factory rentals, income tax, property tax, utilities and other service charges. I hope that this will indeed start a trend or habit for Government agencies to review their cost structures, to put all aspects of costs under scrutiny, and examine ways and means of cost savings, eg, higher productivity, automation and lower head counts. The Government agencies can then pass on these savings to the customers and the public regularly. It is good that we are debating this CSC Report and deciding how best to tackle the economic crisis in a cool and calm manner in this Chamber and not in the streets, unlike in some other countries where there are riots and demonstrations. This speaks volumes of our tripartite consensus making process, of our internal cohesion, and the clear vision and high calibre of our national leaders. Mind you, this is not self-praise. It would be immodest of us to do so. Praise for Singapore, and our Singaporean way of handling the economic crisis, came from some unexpected quarters, from those who are quick to criticise us and who have been our constant critics in the past. It came no less, for example, from the Far Eastern Economic Review magazine. If I may quote from our erstwhile critic, the Far Eastern Economic Review stated in its September 1998 issue: "Singapore's quick, organised response to Malaysia's financial shutdown could solidify its place as Southeast Asia's premier financial centre.”
“I am glad that the Singapore National Employers Federation and the Singapore Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry have announced that they will step up workers' training and retraining and assist in job placement. The question is, can the employers do more? What the employers do now, or will not do, will settle the long term relationship with the workers and unions. For the sake of our long term competitiveness and our future, the employers must be seen to be proactive in helping workers in this economic crisis. In a way, they will be helping themselves, if they could secure the loyalty and support of the workers, and motivate them to give their best. Recently, Mr Tan Chin Tuan, the former Chairman of OCBC Bank, celebrated his 90th birthday. His grand-daughter remembered that he taught her that there were principles in making money, and that making money was not everything. I sincerely hope, and urge, all our entrepreneurs and businessmen, to abide by these wise precepts of Mr Tan Chin Tuan, which were forged and tempered by years of experience in both the private and public sectors. Those at the helm of business should, in times of crisis like this, uphold and cherish our workers, who are making the supreme sacrifices in CPF cuts and wage cuts, and some are indeed losing their jobs. Companies should think long term and try to retain, retrain and redeploy the workers, rather than simply retrench them, if they could help it. If we simply cut, and cut off the workers, we will not retain their loyalty and support. The entrepreneurs will do well to follow the example of Mr Sim Wong Hoo of Creative Technology, who has pledged to keep the money saved from the CPF cuts for possible distribution as incentive or variable bonus, if the company's targets are met.”
“Good overseas talents, with their skills, ideas and inventions, will enable Singapore to compete successfully and thereby create more jobs for all Singaporeans. Even a superpower like the United States of America, benefited from wave upon wave of immigrants, who contributed immensely with their ideas and inventions to the American economic growth. Some businessmen are saying that the CPF and wage cuts are not deep enough. They want another 5 or more percentage cut. I think enough is enough. I am glad that the Government is taking a balanced approach on this. Further cuts, I am afraid, will drastically cut cash flow and our purchasing power. There will be adverse effects if more and more held back from buying or have their purchasing power curtailed, and there will be a contraction, instead of a multiplier effect. There will be less money to go around. We definitely do not want that to happen. Many people will then say, "Money no enough." Our social fabric and cohesiveness will also be damaged. In the formula, it is possible to cushion the effects of these cuts with the NTUC package, and the Government measures announced so far. NTUC has set the pace with a $23 million aid package for workers, especially to help those in the lower income brackets. NTUC Fairprice has cut prices significantly at its supermarkets, while NTUC Income has a $12 million package to help policy holders to tide over their payments for premiums and housing loans. At the constituency level we, as Members of Parliament, will do our very best to do placement service for those out of job, award bursaries and help out those who are in need. What are the private sector companies going to do to help the workers to match the measures launched by NTUC?”
“But the Government, we can see by this package, is trying its best to cushion the impact, especially for the lower income groups. 4% out of the 10% CPF cut will come from the Special Account, and CPF members will further be allowed to use the balances in their Special Accounts to meet any shortfall in mortgage repayment caused by the CPF cut. The fact that the Government is trying its utmost to help homeowners can be seen in two other schemes: first, the HDB will allow deferment of mortgage payments, lengthening of the term of the mortgage loans, and inclusion of more working family members as joint owners for the purpose of payment. Second, there is a Bridging Loan Scheme for CPF holders with HDB and private property mortgages at the concessionary rate of CPF interest rate plus 0.1%. This is indeed a very attractive and generous scheme. Members of the public, I am sure, would also welcome the GST offsets, utilities rebates, public transport rebates and reduction in hospital charges. All these will, I am sure, go a long way to help the lower income groups, especially those in the HDB heartland. Sir, some are puzzled or may not understand why, when we have retrenchment and unemployment, we are establishing the Singapore Talent and Recruitment (STAR) Committee, chaired by BG George Yeo. They may forget that Singapore is not a big country with a huge hinterland and, in truth, we are a city state, aiming to be a global city. To move forward and compete, we have to attract the best talents from abroad. In fact, we need more stars. Let there be a star-studded Singapore, whether the stars are local born or overseas inducted. Many of our first generation leaders like Dr Toh Chin Chye, Mr Ong Pang Boon and Mr S. Rajaratnam were indeed inducted from abroad.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of the motion standing in the name of the Minister for Trade and Industry. Sir, I wish to thank Deputy Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong for presenting the Government's response to the CSC Report. It underscores what the international news media and the fund managers are saying: that the Singapore Government has the talent and the vision to deal effectively with the current economic crisis. Our national leaders have amply demonstrated and exercised leadership and statesmanship in handling the economic problems we have. All Singaporeans would, I am sure, join us in thanking the Government for the cost cutting package, including the generous Government rebates and tax cuts. Sir, I am glad that the Government is refraining from cutting the monthly wages of the junior staff in Division III and IV levels and the daily-rated employees. This shows that the Government is considerate and mindful of the needs of the junior staff and the lower income group. This is indeed a caring Government in action, lest we forget. I hope the private sector companies will also take this into consideration when they do their own wage adjustments, especially for their junior staff. On the other hand, the Government Ministers will forgo the normal annual salary adjustment for a second year running and instead take a 10% pay cut. Our Ministers are indeed leading by example. We must all be thankful that we in Singapore have such good Ministers, whereas in many other countries they have so many problems with the economy and the leadership. Sir, we have no choice but to cut costs, in order to be competitive against other competing economies. There is no cure without some pain.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to ask the Minister whether the far-fetched Malaysian legal position and claims would in fact mean that it is undermining our own sovereignty as a country and that the Malaysians are taking for granted our goodwill and patience on this matter. I also want to ask the Minister what would be the Government's position if a question is asked whether the Woodlands Checkpoint building is spacious and large enough and whether some space could still be found for Malaysian Immigration officers inside the building.”
“Will MINDEF allow progressive withdrawals from the various savings accounts for payment of housing instalments, as in the CPF accounts? Will MINDEF extend the SAVER scheme to the regular NCOs in future? Sir, the pension scheme is funded directly by the Government. The SAVER Fund is a separate fund established by the Government with its own set of accounts. The SAVER Fund will be managed, as announced, by a Board of Trustees, appointed by the Armed Forces Council. My question is: will the Government ensure that these funds are well managed in terms of investments and returns, and the officers will enjoy good rates of returns from the SAVER Fund, no less but, hopefully, better than the CPF rates? Sir, if, unfortunately, the officer dies in service, will his family be given the benefits under the SAVER scheme? Sir, I support the Bill.”
“Sir, I rise in support of the Bill. The SAF is the bedrock and indeed the vanguard of our national defence policy and strategy. Without a strong SAF, all our defence planning will come to nothing. The core or critical element in the SAF is manpower, in particular, the officer corps. We must, therefore, ensure that at all times, the SAF personnel are well motivated, ready and able to deliver the knock-out punch when the chips are down. The SAF must, therefore, have good terms and conditions of service to attract and retain the best to shoulder the awesome responsibility of being in the forefront of our defence, and being entrusted with the training and command of our national servicemen. Over time, circumstances, perceptions and expectations change. And the SAF must, from time to time, review and adjust the employment schemes to bring them in line with the prevailing market practices. It is, therefore, timely as we move into the 21st century that MINDEF is revamping the SAF employment system and introducing the Savings and Employee Retirement (SAVER) plan. I am sure it will be a real saver and will be very much welcomed by the officer corps. The new scheme, I am sure, will keep the SAF young and will, at the same time, meet the aspirations of the younger officers for a more defined and focused route of advancement. Nevertheless, Sir, I wish to take this opportunity to seek some clarifications and amplification from the Minister. Will the officers continue to enjoy medical benefits upon their retirement under the SAVER scheme? Will the savings accounts and retirement accounts of the SAVER scheme be subject to tax upon withdrawal of the sums?”
“Sir, may I thank the Minister for his full replies and wide-ranging responses to our many questions. In particular, we wish to join the Minister in hoping for the best and also working towards closer Malaysia-Singapore relationship and closer Singapore-Indonesia relationship too. On that note, Sir, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $161,490,000 for Head O ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. The sum of $53,242,300 for Head O ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. Head Q -”
“Sir, despite much criticism and doubts and there are many, the United Nations have expanded and fulfilled to a significant extent its role as a recognised world-wide forum for countries, big and small. It has weathered many storms and crises, the most recent of which is the Gulf crisis. The United Nations certainly do not meet all our expectations, but there is none to replace it in the post-cold war world. As a small country, Singapore certainly finds it very useful to be represented at the United Nations. We are indeed bidding for a seat on the UN Security Council for the year 2001. A seat on the UN Security Council, I believe, would give us, especially our diplomats, an excellent opportunity to learn and appreciate the workings of the UN Security Council. 6.15 pm I would therefore like to ask the Minister on the latest in our campaign for such a seat on the UN Security Council and what do other nations think of Singapore's role in the UN and its affiliated bodies. Will it mean that we will play a more active role in the UN?”
“Thank you, Sir. In the post-World War II era, we often talk about US-Europe and US-Asia Pacific relationships but, surprisingly, less of the Asia-Europe relationship, though many countries in the region have strong ties with their former colonial masters in Europe. This missing link or gap was closed with the inauguration of the Asia- Europe Meeting (ASEM) in Bangkok in March 1996. This ASEM was very much a Singapore initiative with our Prime Minister, Mr Goh Chok Tong, as the driving force behind it. Since then, ASEM has sprouted forth a host of other entities, like the Asia-Europe Business Forum, Asia-Europe Business Conference and the most promising of all, the Asia-Europe Foundation. I would like to ask the Minister whether this flurry of meetings and conferences is a passing fad and phenomenon, or will they blaze the trail for the fruitful relationship between Europe and Asia in the long run. Are the Europeans seriously, may I ask, interested in playing a meaningful role in Asia and in engaging Asia?”
“Sir, last year, Cambodia almost became a part of ASEAN, but it was not to be. By a twist of fate, Cambodia's membership in ASEAN was held back. Much has happened since then in Cambodia. I would like to ask the Minister whether the situation in Cambodia has stabilised, and whether ASEAN will review and consider Cambodia for admission into ASEAN. And whether Singapore businessmen have a significant presence in Cambodia, and how such presence can be nurtured and promoted for mutual benefit. Sir, can I go on to my next topic?”
“Sir, Singapore-Indonesia relations have been close and warm ever since President Suharto came into office. We all know that President Suharto is indeed a friend of Singapore. Indonesia has played a pivotal role in ASEAN and President Suharto has a moderating and positive influence on the region. Sir, at the moment, Indonesia is beset with economic problems and subject to wide currency fluctuations. Singapore has been quick in responding to Indonesia's needs with financial packages and wishing all the best for Indonesia. We know that whatever happens to Indonesia, it will have an impact on us in Singapore. We want a successful and prosperous Indonesia with a prosper-thy-neighbour approach, with Indonesia and Singapore working closely within ASEAN, to bring about stability and prosperity in our own region. I would therefore like to ask the Minister for his reading of the situation in Indonesia and the region, and how best we can help Indonesia to overcome these problems. And how all these will have an impact on the bilateral relationship between Singapore and Indonesia and also on the region.”
“Sir, last year was a non-vintage year, if I may say so, in Singapore-Malaysia relations. It was indeed a difficult passage and a very rough patch in our relationship. This year we are off to a better start. Leaders and officials of both countries have met on a number of occasions. I sincerely hope that this good trend will generate goodwill and it will yield good dividends. But it is yet too early to tell whether it will be a good year. Nevertheless, we hope for the best and wish that both countries will enjoy prosperity together as good neighbours in a win-win situation. We are glad that the Prime Ministers of Malaysia and Singapore met in Kuala Lumpur on 16th February of this year and a joint communique was issued. This communique covered, amongst others, economic cooperation, the Malayan Railway land in Singapore and Pedra Branca. Most significant of all, Malaysia agreed to continue the supply of water to Singapore beyond the expiry of the 1961 Agreement in the year 2011 and the 1962 Agreement in the year 2061 as well as the 1990 Agreement connected with it, on terms and conditions to be mutually agreed between the two governments. This understanding is to be confirmed in an agreement within 60 days. I would therefore like to ask the Minister to give us an update of Singapore-Malaysia relationship and also to comment on the prospect for the future.”
“How can we contribute to regional stability, and what will be the role of ASEAN in the midst of these changes, especially in the ASEAN Regional Forum?”
“Sir, I beg to move, That the total sum to be allocated for Head O of the Main Estimates be reduced by $100. Sir, in just over a year, we will be in the 21st century. That does not make us centenarians of course, but at least we can say we cross the century line, and will soon witness the dawn of a new era. But if the past year is anything to go by, there is not much to look forward to by the series of bad news and more bad news. No one has foreseen that in the last lap of this century, it will be such a tortuous one with currency turmoil and unprecedented economic downturn for the region. South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia, amongst others, are much affected by the economic downturn. And so are we. It is a new and indeed unfamiliar phenomenon which all in the region are trying to fathom and cope. Sir, this economic downturn is bound to alter the power configuration and rewrite the strategic equation in the region. It will not be incremental changes, but fundamental shifts in paradigm, realignment and relationship. In the midst of these shifts, I would like to ask the Minister for his reading of the situation, and how a small country like Singapore can position itself overcome the odds and survive and prosper. What may I ask are the roles of the United States, the People's Republic of China and Japan in this new scenario? Will the Americans retain their strategic and economic interests in the region? I hope they will. I would like to ask the Minister whether we will continue to offer the Americans access to our naval facilities in Singapore. Will the Japanese expand their economic role? What impact will the PRC have on this region? I also like to ask the Minister what positive role can Singapore play in this region.”
“Sir, I wish to thank the Ministers for their full and comprehensive replies and I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.”