S Iswaran
Singapore
“The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has incorporated the requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) 2020 regulation in its Prevention of Pollution of the Sea (Air) Regulations 2022. The Regulations are applicable to Singapore-registered ships and all other ships while they are in Singapore waters.”
“The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) plans to progressively roll out the charging infrastructure for electric harbour craft operations in the Port of Singapore from 2025.”
“Since 2018, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has imposed minimum bicycle parking provisions covering different types of developments. The requirements are determined by multiple factors, including the developments’ use, location and gross floor area (GFA).”
“I had addressed similar Parliamentary Questions by Mr Gerald Giam on 29 November 2022 and 10 January 2023, as well as in my Ministerial Statement on 8 May 2023. The Member can refer to these past answers and statement as there has been no material change in the allocation of Certificates of Entitlement.”
“To encourage the uptake of electric cars, the Government has rolled out the Electric Vehicle Early Adoption Incentive and enhanced Vehicular Emissions Scheme. When taken together, it provides up to $45,000 off the Additional Registration Fee of an electric car upon registration.”
“The Land Transport Authority studies all potential changes to the Certificate of Entitlement (COE) system carefully, including conducting sensitivity analysis where appropriate.”
The complete record
Every one of 2,300 lines we hold for S Iswaran, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 32 of 46.
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I thank the Member for believing what I said. Let me try and do some justice to the multiple questions here. On online gaming and whether we can do something in the interim, I think we have to look at it carefully because it is a question not just of the will but also the ability to follow through. But we are looking at it and we will take the necessary steps and, if we can do it effectively, then we will also look at some interim measures. I want to give the Member the assurance of that. Secondly, if the number of annual levies is proportionately small, then should we just scrap the annual levy? This is an interesting argument because if it was large, the Member would say, "There you are, we have a problem". If it is small, "Why not do away with it?" So, there must be a sweet spot zone that the Member is thinking of where it is permissible. But I think the short answer to her is this. You need these annual levies partly because the casinos do, as part of their business, have what they call premium players. And for premium players, if you subject them to a daily levy regime, it is cumbersome and these are people who, as you know, by our laws have to first put in a deposit of $100,000 and draw it down before they can pay. So, for them, they can afford it and we want to make sure that that is part of the arrangement. The Annual Entry Levy was part of the agreement we had with the IRs when we started and we would want to make sure that we stand by our obligations on that. Thirdly, on contracts and what are our options. It is a 30-year concession period. The licence is renewable depending on the period for which the licence is awarded. We have the first licence for a three-year period.”
“Thank you, I understand. I just want to elaborate to make it very clear. First, solar as an option for us, we continue to look at it as we do all other energy options because we cannot rule anything out in the context of energy security for Singapore. Secondly, solar energy in the context of meeting Singapore's basic energy needs has limited potential for the reasons I have elaborated – its intermittency and the large land take that is required to meet our energy needs through solar puts some natural limits on it. Our investment in R&D is precisely in order to develop capabilities in this space. We are working with the private sector through our research institutes. And I think in the long term there will be potential, therefore, to collaborate with the private sector and to potentially export that expertise. 1.30 pm”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I am not sure whether the Member meant exporting energy or exporting the expertise.”
“Going forward, we will continue to support such test-bedding efforts. To meet the energy demands of Government-owned buildings, we remain open to all energy technologies and options. These could include buying electricity from the grid, installing solar PV to augment electricity supply, or installing energy-efficient technologies to reduce energy consumption. The Government could take the lead in installing solar PV where it makes economic sense to do so. The private sector would similarly need to weigh the costs and benefits in deciding whether to deploy solar PV installations. The Government will continue to facilitate this by supporting technical infrastructure for better integration of distributed energy sources, and reviewing our market regulatory rules and policies. Page: 1311”
“Over the years, we have supported various research, pilot and test-bedding programmes to strengthen our capabilities in solar PV. For example, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) is leading the $31 million Solar Capability Building Scheme, a nationwide solar pilot programme on public housing blocks. Since 2008, HDB has been progressively installing solar PV in both new and existing HDB precincts. To date, about 100 blocks have been installed with solar PV systems. From HDB's pilot programme, we seek learning points on the feasibility and performance of various solar PV technologies in Singapore’s densely built tropical environment, as well as best practices for implementation and systems integration of solar PV. Page: 1311 Another initiative is the Economic Development Board’s (EDB's) Clean Energy and Research and Test-bedding (CERT) Programme, which offers opportunities for companies to test-bed clean energy technologies using locations provided by Government agencies, including Government buildings and public schools. The CERT programme also aims to encourage R&D and build research capabilities in solar PV in our local research institutes. Projects supported under the CERT programme include National Parks Board's (NParks') Gardens by the Bay, PUB's Marina Barrage, the Building and Construction Authority's (BCA’s) Zero-Energy Building, and installations in Singapore Polytechnic and Ngee Ann Polytechnic. Our HDB solar PV systems generate an average of 3,200 to 4,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month per housing block. This largely goes towards powering each block's common services, such as elevators, water pumps and corridor lights, thus reducing common areas' energy consumption from the grid.”
“We look forward to the support of all Singaporeans, so that the F1 Singapore Grand Prix will continue to be an event that we are happy and proud to host. Page: 1155”
“The Government supported the hosting of the Formula One (F1) Singapore Grand Prix in 2008 to help transform the tourism sector, generate economic value, and boost Singapore's image as a vibrant and distinctive global city. The F1 Singapore Grand Prix has met these objectives over the first five-year term. The cost of organising each race is estimated at about $150 million. The Government co-funds 60% of approved costs. In turn, the F1 Singapore Grand Prix has generated about $150 million in incremental tourism receipts per race, surpassing the original projection of $100 million per race. These tourism receipts are over and above the typical tourism spending on a non-race weekend. Further, close to 200,000 international visitors have come to Singapore for the first five races. Many of these visitors are from non-traditional tourism source markets as the race also helped to broaden Singapore's reach as an international tourism destination. Page: 1155 The F1 Singapore Grand Prix has also yielded significant global branding benefits to Singapore. Cumulatively, more than 360 million television viewers worldwide have followed the first four races; the statistics for this year's race are still being compiled. The extensive international media coverage of the F1 Singapore Grand Prix has showcased Singapore's distinctive skyline globally and boosted our image as a vibrant global city. We expect these benefits to be sustained and the costs to go down in the extended term as we optimise existing infrastructure, become more efficient in race organisation, and benefit from revised terms with the race promoter and Formula One Administration. We will also continue to explore ways to minimise the public inconveniences that a street race may bring to Singaporeans.”
“Currently, non-residential consumers with average monthly electricity usage of 10,000 kWh and above can opt for contestability. This allows them to buy electricity from retailers or directly from the wholesale electricity market at half-hourly spot prices. Non-residential accounts include those managed by the Town Councils for common property, such as corridors, void decks and open spaces of HDB blocks, as well as for commercial property within the town. As of end-December 2011, there were about 6,200 accounts with SP Services under the management of the 15 Town Councils. Of these accounts, 5% are contestable and already buy their electricity directly from retailers or from the wholesale market. A further 7% are eligible for contestability, but have yet to opt in. EMA has progressively liberalised the retail electricity market since 2001 by gradually lowering the contestability threshold to the current level of 10,000 kWh. Thus far, 75% of total electricity demand in Singapore has been opened up to competition. The remaining 25% of the market comprises mainly small commercial and industrial consumers, and individual households which consume much smaller quantities of electricity. These consumers continue to purchase their electricity from SP Services at the regulated tariff rates. EMA is studying how retail contestability can be further expanded, including how Town Councils can participate more in the contestable electricity market. EMA is learning from the experience and developments in other jurisdictions, such as the UK, New Zealand and Australia, while also considering the need for adequate safeguards to ensure that consumers can benefit from contestability. Page: 1009”
“Mr Speaker, I thank the Member for his suggestion. I want to assure him and the rest of the House that, indeed, that is the focus of the Police. We have a nationwide CCTV rollout plan. Within that, there is a certain level of prioritisation by geography, and within these geographies, specific areas. Some of that allocation by the Police will be on the basis of where they think the needs are greatest. It may not just be due to an UML type of problem. It may be due to other considerations but the Police will make an operational assessment in deciding where those deployments should be made. That is not the only criterion. There are other factors that are at play as well. Beyond that, even before we had this nationwide CCTV rollout, there were some tactical deployments that the Police were already doing, and that will continue to be the case in terms of CCTV. Page: 949”
“We have not ruled out other options, but we want to monitor the efficacy of the totality of the measures we have in place today, and see how they improve the situation before deciding whether we need any further, perhaps more severe, measures.”
“Sir, I appreciate the Member's passion in representing her constituent's plight. We have discussed this matter and debated it quite a bit in this House. Let me just bring it back to the focal point, which is that, first of all, the opinion on this matter is divided, not least because the circumstances in which different borrowers find themselves in vary. So, it would be difficult to use a common approach to apply to all, as in the case of criminalising borrowing from the loansharks. Secondly, the Member asked specifically about education. We are referring to making people aware of the prevalence of loanshark activities, that they should be deterred from taking up such facilities because of the quite dire consequences that can follow through, and where they can turn to for help. This is the kind of information that needs to go out extensively. With respect to those who may have borrowed from laonsharks, the additional things that we have done so far, in particular, with the recent set of amendments to the law, has been to make it an offence if they are slow in reporting a change of their address to the ICA. They have to do so within a period of 28 days, and if they do not, they are liable to quite stiff punishments. Secondly, if they give wrong information because they want to implicate somebody else rather than themselves in the course of borrowing from illegal moneylenders, that is also an offence, and they can be imprisoned for up to a year. So, there are those kinds of provisions in place. As I have said in my earlier reply, we are monitoring the situation. So far, the trend has been downwards and it has been strongly downwards – reduced by 20%. It has been a similar order of magnitude in the previous two years. The Police are getting a handle on it.”
“Mr Speaker, I believe both questions posed by the Member pertain to the same point, which is how do the Police track the people who are behind the syndicates, and not just the runners who are just in the frontline. This is where there is the challenging task, and one that requires persistence and perseverance on the part of law enforcement agencies, specifically our Police operational divisions. Through the apprehension of some of these harassers who are caught, we are able to get some intelligence which will then lead into action taken against those who are upstream, and getting more data. The Police have also been able to disrupt the activities of some syndicates at the core. The issue of extra-territoriality and jurisdiction does arise, because there are some syndicates where some of the people behind them are beyond our borders. This is where cooperation with the law enforcement agencies in other countries is relevant. Where we are able to prove that someone has, indeed, contravened our laws, then, the close cooperation that we have with some of our neighbouring countries' enforcement agencies will help in their interdiction and, eventually, bringing them back to our shores to bring them to task. Page: 948 Er Dr Lee Bee Wah (Nee Soon): Mr Speaker, Sir, I have a resident who has been harassed by loansharks for the last 10 years because his neighbour borrows repeatedly from these loansharks. I would like to ask the Minister why is the Ministry reluctant to make borrowing from loansharks an offence. The Minister also mentioned education. I would like to ask what kind of education is applicable for cases like these, and does the Minister think education is effective?”
“My apologies, Mr Speaker. Yes, I had replied to Questions Nos 1 and 2 together.”
“STB and SGP will continue with their efforts in the years ahead and will welcome further suggestions to help businesses, including those in the Marina Bay area, derive greater benefit from the F1 Singapore Grand Prix. Page: 913”
“The economic benefits of the Formula One (F1) Singapore Grand Prix were an important consideration in the Government's evaluation to extend the race till 2017. Over the last five years, each race has attracted close to 40,000 international visitors and about $150 million in incremental tourism receipts on average. Of this sum, about one-third or $50 million goes directly to the retail and F&B sectors, of which SMEs form a significant proportion. SMEs also account for about 80% of the race promoter Singapore GP's (SGP) race organisation works annually. However, a street race will inevitably cause some short-term inconveniences, especially to stakeholders in the vicinity. While some businesses in the Marina Bay area have benefited from the buzz and the increase in visitors, others have reported a drop in their short-term sales during the road closure period. Page: 913 Government agencies have been working with SGP to improve public access to the Marina Bay area and to minimise disruptions. For example, the duration of road closures has been halved from 12 days in 2008 to six today. LTA and SGP have also been working with businesses in the Marina Square and Suntec area to help more of their employees, suppliers and key customers drive to and from the malls via Raffles Boulevard, except during race times. Also, with the opening of the Circle Line stations around Marina Bay and the extended MRT operating hours during the race weekend, the area is easily accessible by public transport. STB and SGP have also worked closely with local businesses to take advantage of the high volume of visitors to the race.”
“Natural gas is a clean and efficient energy source that is already widely-used in Singapore. We have two underground pipeline networks for natural gas, and a town gas network that serves three main groups of users of natural gas: power generation companies, industrial users and households. Power generation companies have mostly switched from using fuel oil to natural gas, which allows for more cost-competitive electricity generation. As natural gas is a more efficient fuel, our electricity tariffs are lower than what they would have been had we continued to use fuel oil-fired power plants. Many industrial users, especially the larger energy-consuming companies, use natural gas as feedstock and for industrial purposes, such as co-generation of steam, electricity and cooling. Using natural gas has helped to reduce local pollutants and mitigate our carbon emissions. Currently, more than half of households use town gas, which is mainly manufactured from natural gas. Since 1986, all new HDB flats are installed with town gas piping. Building owners can connect to the town gas network by installing pipes within their premises. Page: 911 We expect demand for natural gas to grow for power generation and industrial purposes. PowerGas, the owner and operator of the underground natural gas pipeline network, is currently expanding this pipeline network in the western and northern parts of Singapore in stages to meet new gas demand. The pipeline network will be progressively expanded to the eastern part of Singapore, in tandem with the expected increase in user demand. Page: 911”
“The Singapore Formula One Grand Prix (F1) has attracted more than 150,000 international visitors to Singapore over the last four years. Many of these international visitors are from the non-traditional tourism source markets like Germany, as the race has also helped to broaden Singapore's reach as an international tourism destination. These visitors spent more than $560 million in total over the past four years, or an average of more than $140 million each race weekend. This sum is over and above the spending we would have seen on a normal weekend. Cumulatively, more than 360 million television viewers worldwide have also followed the Singapore race. This extensive media coverage has boosted our image as a distinctive and vibrant global city. Local businesses have benefited as well. Each year, the race promoter sub-contracts more than 80% of race organisation works to local SMEs. With more than 9,000 corporate attendees annually, the race weekend itself is a premier networking platform for local and international businesses.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Minister for Trade and Industry has already described the proactive stance we are taking with respect to inflation and its impact on our population. Specifically on energy, we continue to be vigilant. We are tracking the trends to see what kind of impact it can have. Certainly, as the track record of the Government suggests, as and when there is a need, appropriate steps would be taken to mitigate the impact on those households that need the help. SINGAPOREANS' PREPAREDNESS FOR MAJOR DISASTERS 10. Ms Ellen Lee asked the Minister for Home Affairs (a) whether Singapore is prepared for similar major disaster of magnitude and impact as the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan; and (b) besides Total Defence, National Education and the Community Engagement Programme, are there any other plans to foster the calmness and resilience of our people and community for similar major disasters.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I thank the Member for her supplementary question. I understand her sentiments and fully empathise with them. I think as Members are well aware, there are instances of families who, even after all the assistance that I have described have been rendered, still have difficulties and in those instances, SP Services, at the behest of or appeal by the Member of Parliament, has considered cases on an individual basis to see what kind of help can be rendered. That will continue to be the case, in addition to other assistance that is available through the ComCare schemes.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, adopting energy efficiency practices helps companies cope with the rising energy prices in the short term, but also prepares them for a future that will increasingly be energy constrained.”
“Three-room households will receive $340 in rebates; this is equivalent to the cost of about five months of electricity consumption by such households. Four-room households will receive $320, which will cover about three and a half months of their electricity bills, assuming there is no change in their consumption behaviour. Put another way, 3-room households will receive rebates this year which are worth about five and a half times the overall increase in their electricity bills over the past 12 months. In other words, if you look back over the increase in their bills over the last 12 months and you compare that with the rebates in this year, the factor is more than five times. Households will receive the next tranche of utilities rebates this month. Since 2007, the Government has provided close to $800 million of such rebates, for the benefit of 800,000 households. So, by all measures, the assistance rendered has been substantial. We also recognise that increases in our electricity tariff may affect the competitiveness of our businesses. As our electricity prices reflect global factors, our principal approach is to help companies manage their demand. The Government administers several programmes to promote more efficient energy use among companies. The Energy Efficiency Programme Office (E2PO), which is a multi-agency committee led by National Environment Agency (NEA) and Energy Market Authority (EMA), co-ordinates various programmes to raise awareness of energy management and energy efficient technologies, provide support for companies which are trying to adopt such technologies, train energy management professionals, and encourage sharing of best practices in energy efficiency among companies.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, let me first place the recent hike in electricity prices in the context of global events. There is uncertainty in global energy markets due to factors such as the unrest in the Middle East and North Africa, and the Fukushima incident. This has caused fuel oil prices and, consequently, our electricity prices to rise. Our approach has always been to price energy right. This ensures that consumers understand the true cost of energy, make efficient use of a scarce and precious resource, and avoid the wasteful consumption associated with subsidies. Nonetheless, the impact of global fuel price increases on our electricity tariffs has been mitigated in several ways. An appreciating Singapore dollar has helped to cushion the effects of rising fuel oil prices, which are denominated in US dollars. Since the beginning of 2010, the Singapore dollar has appreciated by about 8% against the US dollar. Without this, the electricity tariff in the second quarter of this year would have been 5% higher. Also, the introduction of competition into our electricity market since 2001 has improved efficiency. Power generation companies have switched from oil-fired steam plants to more cost efficient ways of generating electricity, such as gas-fired combined cycle gas turbines (CCGT). Had we continued to use steam plants, the electricity tariff today would be about 15% higher, reflecting the relative efficiency of the CCGT. While these measures have helped, they cannot fully offset the effects of oil price increases on our electricity tariffs. To help households which may face difficulties in coping with the rising cost of energy, the Government has provided targeted assistance. This year, about $250 million in utilities rebates will be given to help Singaporeans.”
“Only then can we work constructively with our ASEAN partners and other partners to ensure that nuclear energy, whenever and wherever it is deployed in this region, is done so in a safe and secure manner. The pre-feasibility study will help us understand these risks and make recommendations on the type of training, education and research that will be necessary. It will take months, if not years, for the global nuclear energy community to assess the lessons from Fukushima. But in a world with increasing competition for scarce energy supplies, nuclear energy will continue to be an option for many countries. We should, therefore, deliberately, systematically and methodically shore up our knowledge and understanding of nuclear energy issues. Mr Michael Palmer has asked about alternative sources of energy. We are also actively exploring options to diversify our fuel mix in the near and medium term. The completion of our liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal will expand our geographical sources of energy. We have been studying other energy options such as electricity imports, renewable energy and clean coal, while investing in R&D to improve energy efficiency and develop new energy technologies. Mr Speaker, Sir, with energy constraints expected to increase in the future, we need to adopt a portfolio approach and maintain a range of energy options for Singapore. SINGAPORE'S ASSISTANCE TO JAPAN 8. Mr Michael Palmer asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he would provide an update on the assistance that Singapore has rendered to Japan following the recent earthquake, tsunami and ongoing nuclear power plant crisis.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, in light of the crisis of the nuclear power plant in Fukushima, it is quite understandable that Members have raised questions about the Government’s study on nuclear energy. Let me first emphasise that what we have embarked on is a "pre-feasibility" study on nuclear energy. A "pre-feasibility" study is a preliminary step for us to better understand the complex field of nuclear energy. The aim is to gain a deeper insight into critical issues like the different technologies that are available and being developed; the international regulatory regime; the essential elements for the safe operation of a nuclear plant; the management of spent nuclear fuel; protection against terrorist attacks; radiation protection; and emergency planning. Even with the completion of the pre-feasibility study, we will still be a long way away from making any decisions on nuclear energy for Singapore per se. The Member for Hougang has asked if the Fukushima incident would derail our study of nuclear energy. On the contrary, what happened in Fukushima makes it all the more important that we conduct such a study, and build our knowledge and understanding of nuclear energy. Further, several countries in our region, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, have announced plans for nuclear energy. Therefore, even if we do not proceed with nuclear energy for Singapore, we need to understand its implications for the region and for us in Singapore. Our scientists and engineers must know how current and emerging nuclear technology work, and be able to assess fully the safety risks associated with nuclear energy.”
“We structure the arrangement with them so that we are clear what our long-term goals are and that they are aligned and mutually beneficial. From the Singapore's perspective, we look to ensure that there is a clear systematic transfer of capabilities which we want for our system and then the rest of it is really in execution, and we work at it and we ensure that through the milestones we set, we track this closely to ensure that we are getting value-for-money.”
“Madam, I hope to take up Mrs Josephine Teo's offer of a delayed response. I think Mrs Teo's request is really for more specificity in the value we derive from foreign collaboration. Her point seems to be generic. It is generic because, to some extent, whilst we know what the potential value proposition is, what we actually realise in practice is a function of how we implement the intent and the specific arrangements of that. The Member had cited some examples where partnerships have failed and others have succeeded, and that is exactly why the outcomes vary. Because the real test is in the details. It is not in how well we conceive the idea but it is also in how we then work out specific programmes to achieve some of the clear objectives we set for ourselves. For example, in our set-up, the brand value is clear. The association with a certain institution of international reputation has certain value but in itself does not yield much because people will see through it unless it translates into content value, in other words, pedagogical approaches. If we look at SUTD, and the Member will be familiar with it, the infusion of MIT's approach was engineering, an infusion of that sensibility into our system. It would be a welcome addition. If we look at the Imperial College alliance, a different approach to the teaching of medicine is something that we are hoping to accomplish. If we look at our experience with SMU, it is a case in point, how it has differentiated and added variety to our tertiary education landscape. Without going into nuts and bolts, the way I would describe it is this: we need to be clear to choose the right partners to the best of our abilities.”
“That is why, in 2009, MOE established the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) to offer more opportunities for students to study in Singapore, and obtain a degree from a good overseas university. At steady state, about 4,000 students will enjoy MOE subsidies through SIT each year. With these, there will be enough subsidised places for students to meet our 30% university CPR. So we have no plans to extend Government funding to Private Education Institutions or their students. 4.30 pm Mr Chiam was also concerned on the protection afforded to students who go to Private Education Institutions. That indeed was the objective of the new CPE regulations. Whether a student signs up for an EduTrusted or registered Private Education Provider, there are certain built-in provisions to protect the interest of students, including their fees, and some which may have been paid upfront. *Cols. 4055-4056. Students in PEIs who are in need of financial assistance can still access education loans from banks, cooperatives or self-help groups. Mr Chairman, to conclude, by emphasing that MOE has continued to adapt and innovate so that the entire spectrum of our post secondary education system – from ITE to the polytechnics and universities – stays attuned to the needs of Singapore. These measures will ensure that there are more opportunities and pathways for our students and higher education will remain accessible to all, so that every Singaporean will be able to realise his or her full potential.”
“Currently, 55% of students in ITE, polytechnics and universities eligible for bursaries will benefit from significant increases in the help they receive. By extending the bursaries to a larger proportion of households, the percentage of institutions of higher learning students eligible for subsidies will increase to 75%. In other words, three out of four students in our institutions of higher learning will be eligible for these subsidies. These enhancements will cost MOE up to an extra $134 million a year. If I may now turn to private education. To uplift the quality of the private education sector, we established the Council for Private Education (CPE) in December 2009. As of last month, CPE had completed the registration of 239 Private Education Institutions (PEIs) and more than a quarter of them obtained either one or four-year EduTrust certification. Miss Penny Low and Mr Chiam have asked if MOE intends to extend Government funding to Private Education Institutions and their students. And I think to answer that, we need to just take a step back. MOE plans for university places based on Singapore's manpower demand, while taking into account the need to preserve the high standards of our autonomous universities. In other words, even as we seek to increase the Cohort Participation Rate for universities, we must ensure that the quality and value of university education is maintained, and that our graduates continue to find good employment. MOE will meet our Cohort Participation Rate (CPR) target for pre-employment training primarily through our autonomous universities. Miss Low observed that in the past, students who did not go to our Autonomous Universities would have to get a degree overseas.”
“Diploma students will receive significantly higher bursaries. Those from the lowest third of households in terms of per capita income (that is, per capita income of up to $850 per month) will now receive bursaries of $1,800, which is an increase from the $1,200 they received previously. This will cover 80% of their tuition fees. Put it another way, this bursary together with the subsidies that the Government in general provides for the education means that 97% of the cost of the education will be covered and the students will only have to come up with 3%. The next group of students, for the 33rd up to the 50th percentile with per capita income of up to $1,200 per month, will receive a 70% increase in bursaries to $1,350 – that is, 60% of tuition fees and, *Cols. 4051-4052; 4053-4054. in total, 94% of the cost of education will be covered. We will also extend a $450 bursary to diploma students from households from the 50th to the 66th percentile with a per capita income of $1,700 per month and this will help pay about 20% of their fees [chart *]. University students will also benefit. Those from the lowest one-third of households in terms of per capita income will receive an 80% increase in bursaries – from $1,600 to $2,900. This will cover 40% of fees for a typical degree and in terms of the cost of coverage including the Government's subsidy for overall education will be 85% of cost. So, again, the students are only coming up with 15%. Undergraduates from the 33rd up to the 50th percentile will receive $950 more, that is about 30% of the fees. And all university students can also supplement their bursaries with Government-subsidised loans [chart *].”
“First-time trainees in ITE NITEC/Higher NITEC certificates will receive $200 when they complete the course. In all, $350 million will be invested in CET over the next five years, up from the $80 million that we spent in the past three years. Beyond funding, our CET programmes must be structured to meet the needs of working adults. MOE will, therefore, re-design diploma-level CET in two ways. First, we will make CET courses more modular so that trainees will be able to earn a full diploma qualification by accumulating a number of certificate-level qualifications within a certain validity period. We will also leverage more on e-learning platforms. This will help adult learners learn at their own pace and in a manner that is compatible with their family and work commitments. Secondly, CET courses will be condensed for adult learners in recognition of their work experience. For example, Nanyang Polytechnic's part-time Diploma in Precision Engineering, which is a 1500-hour course, will be adapted into a 900-hour programme without compromising standards. How do we do that? By doing away with general education modules; moving some classroom training onto self-directed and e-learning platforms; and by specialising in disciplines, for instance, Plastic Moulding or Machining Technology in order to streamline the curriculum. The students can pursue such courses at their own pace by accumulating a number of certificate-level qualifications [chart *]. We are also committed to ensuring that no deserving student will be denied a quality tertiary education for want of funds. The Minister for Education spoke about the enhanced bursaries for ITE students. Let me now elaborate on the enhancements for diploma and undergraduate students.”
“This will include courses in key sectors that are identified by the National Productivity and Continuing Education Council and include sectors like precision engineering, hospitality and logistics. The enhanced subsidies for Advanced Diploma and Specialist Diploma Programmes which is raised from 70% to 85%, as the Minister mentioned earlier, will reduce fees significantly. The table* there elaborates and gives very specific amounts of how much the students would save. Student's fees for a year-long Specialist Diploma in Logistics Management will be just under $700 which is less than half a month's salary for a PMET. In keeping with the philosophy of lifelong learning and employability, MOE will lift its current "no double-bite" *Cols. 4051-4052. subsidy policy for Advanced and Specialist Diplomas. We know that PMETs cannot rely on formal qualification acquired at the start of their working lives to sustain them for the duration of their careers. They need to constantly up-skill and occasionally even re-skill in order to switch tracks. By subsidising those who acquire another Advanced or Specialist Diploma five or more years after their first Diploma, we will help PMETs stay employable. MOE will also increase the fee subsidies for part-time undergraduate programmes at UniSIM and public universities to 55% of published fees, in line with the subsidy for full-time undergraduate programmes. This will reduce programme fees by a quarter, and for the students, it means the savings of between $4,000 and $6,500 per programme. And to encourage upgraders to attain full qualifications, we will give first-time trainees in a part-time polytechnic diploma a completion award of $1,000.”
“Today, a fifth of ITE students move on to polytechnics to further their education and we will take steps over the next few years to increase that proportion to one quarter. Mrs Teo has also asked about MOE's role in Continuing Education and Training (CET). In 2008, the National CET Masterplan was launched by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and Workforce Development Agency (WDA) to increase the national CET capacity. It was implemented through private and public service providers, including the polytechnics and ITE. MOE started to subsidise fees for part-time undergraduate programmes at the public universities and UniSIM in 2008. MOE also funds academic CET programmes like Diplomas; Advanced Diplomas and Specialist Diplomas. In the academic year ending March 2010, MOE funded over 18,300 CET training places at the polytechnics and ITE, of which 6,400 were for diploma-level programmes. Our polytechnics and ITE are held in very high regard by industry for their high-quality, market-relevant courses. Similarly, our polytechnics and ITE will leverage on their high-quality training facilities and curricula, which are co-developed with industry partners, to deliver well recognised and quality CET programmes that meet the needs of the Professionals, Managers, Executives and Technicians (PMETs) on the one hand and also the industry on the other hand, to ensure that the demand and supply match. MOE will do even more to grow the current CET training capacity in our post-secondary education institutions. We will increase the number of training places in part-time Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas and Specialist Diplomas at the polytechnics from 6,400 to 10,100 by 2015.”
“Over the next five years, MOE will spend $7 billion on polytechnic education. About $1 billion will be used to increase the capacity of our polytechnics by 20%, and to rejuvenate the campuses with state-of-the-art facilities (like laboratories), and these will ensure that our students are exposed to authentic industry-standard working environments. The polytechnics will also continue to offer new courses such as animation and 3-D arts, and digital forensics. A similar transformation is underway at the ITE. International visitors, industry leaders and alumni are struck by the quality of facilities at ITE's new regional campuses. With a critical mass of students in each College, ITE can optimise its resources and provide an enhanced educational experience for its students. For example, at ITE's Centre for Healthcare Simulation Training, Nursing NITEC students are able to practise their skills on high-fidelity manikins that actually breathe, speak and provide a range of other physiological responses. I suppose if we had a video we could get a better sense of the capabilities of the manikins. Opportunities for sports and the aesthetics have also been improved with the provision of dedicated facilities like a running track, gymnasium, swimming pool and a performing arts centre. Over the next five years, MOE will spend $2 billion on ITE. It is an important investment that yields and continues to yield productive outcomes for our ITE graduates. Almost 90% of ITE students are employed within six months of graduation. And 90% of the employers confirm and affirm that they possess not just the requisite skills but also good work attitudes.”
“I think the Member would agree that, in general, the partners that MOE has selected have been of highest quality and do not fall into the categories that she described. Secondly, we try and structure these partnerships to be mutually beneficial so that both parties have the strong incentive to make it work and derive benefits. The third is to ensure that capabilities are transferred to and embedded in our institutions, so that the benefits are not just for the duration of the partnership but are embedded in Singapore for the long run. And, fourthly, we calibrate the resources we allocate by ensuring that funding for each collaboration is commensurate with its scope and scale. It is also tied to milestones which meet the objectives of the collaboration. Having said all that, is there a risk that some of these collaborations will not yield all the benefits we seek? The answer must be yes. But the question then to ask is, does that mean we do not embark on such ventures? I think the overall benefits outweigh the costs and the risks, so we should meticulously structure these arrangements to mitigate downside risks and maximise the benefits to our system. Another institution which has commenced operations last year is the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT). It works closely with our polytechnics and also partners overseas universities to offer degree programmes for polytechnic upgraders. SIT's student intake will double to 1,000 this year. At SIT's open house last Saturday, prospective students for the August 2011 intake could choose from 17 degree programmes with seven overseas university partners. This is up from eight programmes last year and this will continue to grow as SIT works towards a steady state.”
“Mr Chairman, I will take the questions that Members have raised on tertiary, continuing and private education. Mrs Josephine Teo has asked about the new developments in the higher education sector and I propose to start with that. The Minister for Health has already outlined the plans for the new Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine at NTU. As the Minister for Education has highlighted, the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) will receive its first batch of students in April 2012. The SUTD has made good progress on curriculum development and has successfully recruited an initial core of quality faculty and high calibre students. It has also launched a Dual Masters Programme with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) which will commence in September 2011; students will spend a year each in MIT and SUTD and graduate with a Degree from each of these institutions. Assoc. Prof. Fatimah Lateef has asked about our plans and approach for the establishment of the Liberal Arts College. NUS signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Yale University last September to explore further collaboration. They are now discussing the final details. The intent is for the College to offer a curriculum that preserves the best features of a liberal arts education – smaller class sizes, residential living, and a broad-based education experience – while being adapted and contextualised for Singapore and Asia. Mrs Josephine Teo asked about the value of such foreign collaborations for Singapore. This is a pertinent question and one that we are seized with. Let me see how we go about trying to ensure that we get the most out of these relationships. First is, of course, partnership selection.”
“Mr Chairman, I regret that the Member takes exception to the vocabulary we used in describing innovation. But this is a reflection of the DNA of what MTI and its agencies are about. Because, at the end of day, MTI and its agencies, have been charged with economic outcomes. Clearly, we have got to keep focused on that. That does not mean you jettison all social and other considerations. Indeed, as I have explained, for example, when you talk about meeting a healthcare need – that is actually quite social in its outcome but it has also got an economic dimension. If you want something to be sustainable in the marketplace, then you need a certain economic viability test to be applied to it. I think the Member also made a point about the people sector and involvement. Sir, we have a range of programmes available. I do not wish to enumerate them in detail but it would suffice to say that there have been instances where social enterprises and the people sector have taken advantage of some of them. Perhaps not to the extent where the Member would desire. I would also draw the Member's attention to the fact that the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports, through its ComCare and other broad programmes, also seeds a great deal of these kinds of people-sector ventures. Sir, I think we need to look at it in totality and not just from the context of what MTI and its agencies are doing, although even within that context we have got considerable allowances made for these kinds of efforts. I think those were the main points the Member made.”
“Mr Chairman, I thank the Member for the question. The point about pricing: to be very clear that that is the fundamental requirement because if the price is not right, then we cannot expect behaviour to adjust which is the desired outcome. Having said that, we are not just relying on price mechanism. There is a slew of efforts underway in a range of sectors. If the Member looks at the building sector, for example, we have the patent marks, and so on, which are really designed to encourage developers to adopt energy-efficient building designs and we have already seen that coming on-stream. If the Member looks at the industries, we have the Efficient Energy Programmes Office (E2PO) which focuses on various programmes which are targeted at and helping industries develop energy-efficient solutions. Because the industries are so diverse, you need fairly customised solutions and so there is a whole new industry around this, of energy consultants. If you look at households, we got the ticks that MEWI does and this is part of the process of encouraging our consumers to be more prudent in the way they select their appliances. We are also testing out smart meters. There is a trial run that is taking place in Singapore. The real purpose of these smart meters is to give households and residents a real-time sense of how the consumption of electricity on their part is affecting their bill so that they can correct it. Normally there is a bit of a disjoint because we consume, then the bill comes later. So, this is to give them a bit more of a real-time feel and they can track it and make adjustments. There is a range of measures and I think those, together with our core approach on pricing and targeted subsidies, are really designed to create a more energy-efficient system. 1.45 pm”
“Mr Chairman, to answer the Member's question: basically, our research institutes adopt quite flexible models and you will find that there is a range of arrangements in how IP is shared with the private sector. That can start from a wholesale sale of the IP in which case the private enterprise takes it over after a period of co-development. There are instances where they jointly own the IP and there are other instances like the one I highlighted in my speech where they are licensed. The approach is a fairly flexible one. The key objective is really this: first, we want to ensure that the research that is undertaken in our institutes has productive application which means collaboration with the private sector is quite essential. But at the same time, we want to ensure that our institutes and the researchers get a fair deal. Within those broad parameters, they are fairly flexible in their pursuit of a range of options.”
“May I just clarify, are you referring to the framework as in how IP is shared between institutes and companies?”
“Our multi-pronged approach to addressing our energy challenge will help put the economy on the path of more sustainable growth. Inflation Assoc. Prof. Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim: Sir, recently, there have been many reports regarding inflation led by the increase in prices of various consumer products. In addition, much has also been debated in this House in our recent Budget debate. While there are views that the increase in prices is led by car and housing, others feel that prices of most goods and services have gone up and will continue to go up. As a result, while there is a fear of this inflationary phenomenon, I have received feedback that Singaporeans are also unclear and confused with regard to the details of the inflation we are facing and how it affects the different segments of our society. Many organisations in Singapore, including the Government, have reviewed their programmes and schemes to help Singaporeans cope with this inflationary phenomenon. With a sizeable proportion of low-income residents living in my ward, Kaki Bukit Division, I am very concerned if they are affected by the rise in prices. In particular, I am concerned that many of the middle- and the lower-income Singaporeans are finding it difficult to cope with these increases, especially in terms of food and transportation. From the statistical point of view, I would like to ask the Minister to explain how the current inflation is affecting the various income groups according to the major items that they consume. In particular, which segment of the society have been the hardest hit by the recent inflationary phenomenon? Monitoring retail prices”
“Some households may face difficulties in coping with rising and volatile energy prices. Our approach is to provide targeted assistance to those who need it. In Budget 2011, the Finance Minister has announced $200 million in utilities rebates which will help Singaporeans cope with high energy prices. I can put it in more specific terms. This year, a 1-room household will receive enough in rebates to cover most of its annual electricity bill, while a 3-room household will receive about five months' worth of electricity bills in rebates. These are signficant rebates which are provided in a targeted manner to those who will need them the most. Since 2007, the Government has provided close to $800 million of such rebates, benefiting about 800,000 households. Clearly, beyond households, we want to encourage energy efficiency amongst all industry players, across sectors, and the Energy Efficiency Programme (E2PO) coordinates these programmes. Ms Indranee Rajah asked about the electric vehicle (EV) pilot project. This is another R&D initiative. The project will test if EVs can become a viable mode of transport in Singapore. We are currently developing the charging infrastructure for the pilot. The first charging stations are due to be completed by mid-2011. The first EVs should arrive in Singapore around that time. We will run the pilot for about two years, and use the data to evaluate the costs and benefits of EVs. Mr Chairman, if I may conclude, as the Minister had emphasised earlier, growing the economy requires efforts at various levels. First, we must grow capabilities. R&D is one of the ways we can try which MTI does this. Second, we must seize opportunities arising in Asia. MTI's efforts in tourism seek to do this. Third, we must address our resource constraints.”
“We are reviewing our regulatory framework to consider this option for the medium term. MTI is also leading a multi-agency pre-feasibility study on nuclear energy. The study is looking at key factors such as technological developments, safety and security issues as well as the economics of nuclear energy. The aim is to inform the Government’s understanding of the risks and possibilities arising from nuclear energy, given the global and regional developments in this space. We cannot rely extensively on alternative energy sources such as wind, geothermal or solar to meet our baseload energy requirements due to our natural disadvantages in these areas. But we will augment our fuel mix with these options where it is technically feasible and economically viable. For example, the Government has invested $31 million in pilot programmes to install solar panels on the rooftops of some HDB buildings by 2015 in order to assess their efficacy. While we are somewhat constrained on the supply side, we can help ourselves significantly by using energy more efficiently. We can do more with less energy. The private sector has shown this. For example, 3M has made a concerted effort to imbue an energy- efficiency culture in its manpower team and, as a result, they have achieved a 35% improvement in energy efficiency, with a cumulative cost saving of US$1.4 billion. We can aspire to do the same – as households, as companies and as a nation as a whole. 1.00 pm The key aspect in managing such demand is pricing energy right. Consumers will adjust their behaviour when they appreciate the full cost of energy as reflected in its price. Conversely, subsidising energy will only lead to inefficient use of a scarce and precious resource.”
“Against that backdrop of that long-term trend, we must also be prepared for greater volatility in energy markets. In 2008/2009 because of the global financial crisis, there was demand uncertainty and that depressed energy prices. Today, the turmoil in the Middle East and North Africa has created supply uncertainty. It does not affect us directly as an energy source because most of our sources are primarily in the region. But oil futures have risen by about 21% since the protests in Egypt began. Not all of these will translate into increases in our electricity prices: the strength of the Singapore dollar, our use of natural gas as our primary fuel and Combine Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) plants, which are very efficient for power generation, and a competitive electricity market will cushion us to some extent. But we cannot be fully shielded from the impact of these increases if they persist. Diversification is key to ensuring that Singapore continues to have secure and competitively-priced energy supplies. The Government will, therefore, continue to explore the development of viable alternative fuel sources. We now import gas from Malaysia and Indonesia through pipelines. We are building the LNG terminal which will provide access to a global gas market and the terminal will come on stream in 2013. Other options include coal and electricity imports. Coal is relatively abundant, and new technologies can help to reduce its environmental impact, so this is something which we should be keeping a close watch on. The Economic Strategies Committee recommended electricity imports as another possibility. A competitive proposal might allow us to access energy sources in our region while freeing up valuable land and other resources in Singapore.”
“We have had a lot of discussion on it. I just want to make the point that we need to explore ways to enhance efficiency and job redesign. Swissôtel has a programme where selected room attendants are given the additional responsibility of preparing the rooms according to specified individual preferences to enhance guest experience. They are also entrusted to do their own quality control checks to ensure that cleanliness and all the other expectations are met. By empowering room attendants and imbuing them with this greater sense of pride and ownership in their work, and increasing job value and wages, this programme should help to increase job satisfaction and improve staff retention. We also encourage businesses to identify more areas where such improvements can be made. We now turn to energy. Even as we pursue growth, we are mindful of the resource challenges that we face. Ms Jessica Tan, Mr Michael Palmer, Mr Liang Eng Hwa and Ms Indranee Rajah have all raised questions over the impact of the political turmoil in the Middle East and North Africa on our energy prices and security. It is important that we first recognise that rising energy prices are part of a long-term trend which reflects fundamental demand and supply drivers in the global energy market. Barring major shifts in the global energy supply, energy will become a relatively scarce resource as demand grows, particularly because of a resurgent Asia. If there is a global initiative to price the cost of carbon emissions to the environment, this will exert further upward pressure on energy prices. As a small economy that is almost wholly reliant on imported energy, we cannot be insulated from these global trends.”
“Eco-tourism is not really the strongest suit of most cities including Singapore, but tourists who are so inclined can clearly immerse themselves in the verdant environment of the Bukit Timah and Central Catchment Nature Reserves, as well as the Sungei Buloh Wetland Park. It is not really the central prong on which the STB markets Singapore as a tourist destination. But clearly, Singapore can be a launch pad from which to explore those options in the region. Mr Chan Soo Sen asked about the cultural tourism and STB is working on curating a diverse calendar of events ranging from lifestyle events, like the F1 and the Asian Fashion Exchange, to cultural experiences such as the Chingay Parade, Thaipusam and Hari Raya celebrations. Taking a longer-term view of tourism, we must acknowledge the constraints on our resources especially land and labour. We cannot keep increasing indefinitely the number of visitor arrivals, which Dr Lam described as massive, or the number of workers in our tourism industry. So, we need to place greater emphasis on increasing the value-add we derived from each visitor and raising productivity. To raise the yield per visitor, we need to offer a greater experience and value. For example, STB has made a deliberate effort to create a series of lifestyle events around the F1. Consequently, average F1 visitor spending in 2010 was close to four times that of the regular visitors – more on F&B, more on entertainment and accommodation. Another way to add value, and Minister has elaborated on this already, is to meet the rising expectations of visitors by enhancing service quality. Our GEMS Up (Go the Extra Mile for Services) effort is part of a broader national effort to ensure that we are able to raise service standards. Productivity push is key.”
“It is not possible to give the Member a definitive breakdown but clearly there are many factors at play, we were starting from the low base in 2009; there is also the growth in Asia in general, and there was therefore much greater tourist traffic and then, of course, the IRs which brought a significant addition to our tourism landscape. But we must recognise that it is still early days yet, with the IRs in their first year of operation. We must expect that the novelty will diminish even as the IRs continue to roll out new attractions. We must also anticipate increasing regional competition for the tourism dollar. It is really too early to draw a definitive conclusion about their long-term economic impact or, indeed, to form a view as to whether we should have more IRs in the future. Dr Lam Pin Min and Mr Chan Soo Sen have asked about the outlook for the tourism industry. For 2011, STB’s forecast is for 12 million to 13 million visitor arrivals and $22 to $24 billion in tourism receipts. That is an increase in visitor arrivals that range between 3% to 12% and 17% to 28% in tourism receipts. These are significant increases and, if they are achieved, will take us another step closer towards achieving STB’s target of 17 million tourist arrivals and $30 billion in tourism receipts in 2015. The reason we have been able to come this far in tourism is partly because of our investments in a strong portfolio of attractions and that has helped us to tap the growth in Asia. We have heard these attractions – the International Cruise Terminal, Gardens by the Bay and the National Art Gallery – these are some of those that are coming in the pipeline that will add to the momentum.”
“The Government has also applied the collaborative innovation approach to address longer-term public sector needs. The $450 million Co-Innovation Partnership Programme will help private enterprises to collaborate with the public sector to develop innovative solutions for specific needs in the public sector. Each collaboration can receive up to $1.75 million under the programme. There is a good pipeline, for example, the Ministry of Health is exploring ways to use remote technology to monitor diabetic patients. JTC is looking at how we can transform excavated soft materials into alternative reclamation fill. In general, we agree with Mr Wee Siew Kim that innovation should be encouraged in as many sectors as possible. We have established grant schemes for test-bedding ventures in areas such as urban solutions, health and wellness, lifestyle and media amongst others. We will continue to encourage this diversity and vibrancy in our R&D landscape. Turning now to tourism. As with R&D, we are breaking new ground in tourism. Last year, riding on the Asia’s recovery and the opening of the two Integrated Resorts (IRs), we welcomed 11.6 million visitors and registered $18.8 billion in tourism receipts, an increase of 20% in visitor arrivals from the year before and 49% for tourism receipts. Dr Lam Pin Min and Ms Indranee Rajah have asked about the long-term economic impact of the IRs. MTI recently announced that based on initial numbers, we are on track to realise the previously projected $2.7 billion in value-add per year per IR, and 50,000 to 60,000 economy-wide job creation in the steady state. Mr Chan Soo Sen asked how much of last year’s growth is due to the IRs.”
“This budget will then help match the commercial needs of companies like Haruna with the intellectual property developed in our research centres. It will support entrepreneurs in proto-typing and test-bedding new products and services, and provide seed funding for growing technology enterprises. Third, R&D will help to address some of Singapore’s pressing challenges. Miss Penny Low has suggested that the Government adopt a broader definition of innovation that delivers not only economic outcomes but also solutions that address social concerns. I am assuming the Member does not think that the pursuit of economic outcome is inherently wrong in its own terms. But this is more about the remit that MTI and its agencies have, which is primarily to focus on economic outcomes. But the dichotomy between social and economic, in some ways, is a false one because most of the commercially viable ideas start by seeking to address a need in the market which is a social need usually. So, that is the Government’s approach. We want to encourage research which is geared towards meeting needs that are pressing or that are long term in nature, in the marketplace, in the society. We established the $1 billion National Innovation Challenge programme to encourage, as Miss Penny Low put it, "systemic innovation" to develop solutions to Singapore’s national challenges. It will not only help solve our problems but also serve to build a better life for Singaporeans and spawn new industries and business opportunities in the process. The first challenge, "Energy Resilience for Sustainable Growth", aims to develop cost-competitive energy solutions for deployment within 20 years to help Singapore improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and increase energy options.”
“At a time when many countries are cutting back on R&D due to fiscal constraints, Singapore stands out for continuing to build its research and innovation eco-system. This investment will yield three main benefits: scientific excellence and talent; greater economic outcomes; and, solutions for challenges that Singapore faces. RIE 2015, first of all, will continue to support scientific excellence and nurture talent. We will invest in the creation of new knowledge and ideas, which are the basis of future innovations. The pool of competitive research funding will be enlarged to ensure that the best ideas are supported. Multi-disciplinary and collaborative efforts will be encouraged, as it is often at the intersection of these different branches of knowledge that new ideas and discoveries are made. Second, we will leverage on our scientific capabilities to encourage and generate greater economic outcomes. Under EDB's Research Incentive Scheme, $2.5 billion will be set aside to co-fund the establishment of corporate centres of R&D excellence in Singapore. We have also introduced a new $1.35 billion Industry Alignment Fund for collaboration between public and industry researchers in order to align Government-funded research more closely with the needs of the industry. Over the next five years, the allocation to innovation and enterprise will be doubled to $1 billion to enable researchers and entrepreneurs to take more ideas from research to commercialisation. One example, the Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology received a grant to further existing nanotechnology research and develop a new process for producing self-cleaning paint. This technology was licensed to Haruna Singapore Pte Ltd, a local paint company, for commercial production.”
“Mr Chairman, I want to thank Members for their interventions and I will address their specific questions on three broad areas – research and development, tourism and energy. 12.45 pm Assoc. Prof. Dr Muhammad Faishal asked how we plan to harness innovation for growth, and what benefits would accrue to researchers, industries and entrepreneurs. Our investment in R&D is really part of our long-term capabilities to underpin our future economic growth. It has strengthened our economy by promoting innovation and catalysing new area of growth. For example, A*STAR's Bioprocessing Technology Institute has helped to seed the capabilities and the expertise that has supported, subsequently, the emergence of the biologics industry in Singapore. Today, that industry has attracted $2 billion in investments and it will create more than 1,000 jobs. Our SMEs have also gained from our R&D initiatives. Under A*STAR's GET-Up, Growing Enterprises through Technology Upgrading programme, researchers have been attached to some 200 SMEs to help develop new products and services by using technology. One example is Tru-Marine Pte Ltd which developed a new process to repair rather than replace worn engine rotors. This allowed the company to offer a new niche service and, consequently, it has grown its annual revenues from $20 million to $50 million. Our commitment to research and innovation remains unstinting. Last year, the Prime Minister announced the Research, Innovation and Enterprise (RIE) 2015 plan which would render enhanced support to our researchers, industries and entrepreneurs. As many Members have already noted the Government will invest $16.1 billion in R&D for the next five years. That is an increase of 20% over the previous five-year plan.”