Sha'ari bin Tadin
Singapore
“To ask the Minister for National Development (a) what was the rationale for closing up the opening in the divider, instead of installing traffic signals, at the New Upper Changi Road/Bedok South Avenue 1 junction, and is the Minister aware that the closure has resulted in (i) curtailment of bus services 31 and 401; and (ii) congestion of…”
“To ask the Minister for National Development (a) whether there are plans to construct an overhead bridge at New Upper Changi Road near the Bedok Sports Complex, when the work will commence and when it is expected to be completed; and (b) whether his Ministry will look into the possibility of installing a signalised pedestrian crossing acr…”
“Sir, thank you for allowing me to speak. First of all, I would like to support the views expressed by the Member for Kim Song. Earlier we were talking a lot about the problems of the aged, and I am afraid I have to bring this up again. The Singapore Sports Council, Sir, has been successfully pursuing the Sports for All policy since 1973.”
“I feel that it is the responsibility of everyone involved in sports to continuously educate people on crowd behaviour and to stifle excesses. We must always acknowledge and cheer good play on both sides whether it comes from the victor or the vanquished. Crowd outbursts can contribute a major danger to sport.”
“Sometimes they have to carry cash and they are afraid that they might be confronted by robbers. I do not know whether the Minister would be able to enlighten us on this policy of building special car parks for lorries and buses only, and whether there is any possibility of complying with the special request of these lorry drivers.”
“According to my way of thinking, it is time the SBC began planning with the objective of becoming more than just a vehicle presenting syndicated programmes from abroad, collecting revenue from advertisements, thus trying to survive at a level little better than an ordinary broadcasting medium.”
The complete record
Every one of 226 lines we hold for Sha'ari bin Tadin, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 4 of 5.
“Here we seem to specialise in the "instant change" method, change being introduced according to the whims and fancies of a few educationists who thus far appear to have betrayed their appalling detachment and lack of comprehension of existing realities. I submit. Mr Speaker, Sir, that on such an important matter as bilingualism a careful study should be made on the implications of any change in implementing methods. We are not quarrelling with the bilingualism policy. The introduction of the exposure time and Education for Living have resulted in a lot of unhappiness and confusion not only for principals, teachers, students but also parents. I do not intend to go into detail as other Members have already aired their views. The last point I wish to bring up, Mr Speaker, Sir, is the fact that we have a vast reservoir of educational expertise that we can profitably tap, instead of having to rely so heavily, and in some cases, blindly, on expensive foreign expertise. I refer to our retired educationists, among whom we have some truly notable talents. This is available for the harnessing at our very doorstep. I suggest that the Ministry of Education seriously look into the possibility of reemploying as advisers or consultants men who have already proved their eminence in the field of education. The Health Ministry utilises the services of consultants many of whom were formerly in Government service or in the university. It is both foolish and dangerous to maintain the notion that the more money one is called upon to shell out to a foreign expert. the greater the quality of his expertise and wisdom.”
“Clearly, a principal who does not have his special position acknowledged and safeguarded in some definite way is going to suffer from a certain sapping lack of morale. He thereby stands in danger of having his very authority undermined. He has every right to expect a special allowance by virtue of the fact that he is the man who is at the top and responsible for the- coordinated running of the entire school. If we deny him this right, we are in actual fact and by definition denying his special authority and thus condemning him, in psychological terms, to a mediocre performance. The second point I wish to make, Mr Speaker, Sir, concerns our policy of bilingualism, which has, to-date, produced innumerable casualties from the point of view of the fact that some of our students are not even proficient in one language. The policy has been implemented inflexibly so far, and it is high time that a thorough study and review be immediately initiated, before we proceed any further. Only after such an assessment has been made, should there be any decisions made on the degree of bilingualism, could we then impose it on our students. It is a psychological fact that some students are fast at learning languages while others are impossibly slow, though they may excel in other areas of the school curriculum. We should manifest our educational realism by adapting national goals to the facts of an existing situation. In most of the developed countries a careful study is made before educational policies are implemented. Pilot schemes are usually introduced and the results fully tested before any policy decision is taken.”
“Sir, much criticism has already been levelled in the House against our educational system in general as well as in specific terms. Both the educational administration and the teaching staff in our schools have been in the line of fire. This identification of weaknesses in the system is entirely constructive and to the point in the present context of our rapid progress. It is wholly relevant to stop and ask ourselves seriously just where we are going with our educational innovations and reforms, and what exactly are the ultimate goals we hope to achieve within the framework of our national aspirations. Mistakes in education are too expensive in human terms for us to delay any further in attempting to locate the trouble spots and areas of vagueness in our educational policies and administrative approaches. Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to suggest practical action in three areas for consideration by the Minister for Education. First, I would like to suggest the restoration of a special allowance for principals in view of the important role they are called upon to play in our educational sphere. In this respect, I share the view of the Member for Jurong expressed earlier on. The present scheme is quite ludicrous, for it is based on academic qualifications. It is quite common in many schools for a principal to be earning far less than his teachers merely because he is not a university graduate but has come up the ladder by dint of hard work, skill and experience. In rational terms, it would seem that this is all the more reason for appreciation to be accorded him in concrete money terms, thus acknowledging the special status he has won for himself. 3.45 p.m.”
“There seems to be a growing rootlessness as the young divorce themselves from the values that govern their parents' lives. I believe that youths can imbibe those values traditional to Asian society only through a closely-knit family life. The home will be the appropriate place for learning correct values. Close family life would also enable problem-fraught teenagers to address their problems to their parents, instead of looking for advice from their peers. I would like to urge all parents to make every effort to achieve better communication with their children. It is often observed that the problems of the nation are essentially the problems of the family. This is certainly true of the problems related to youth and, clearly, the best solution lies within the family unit. Lastly, Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to touch on the Addendum that has reference to the Ministry of Culture. Amongst other things, the President said that "social and cultural development is an integral part of the overall development of the nation". Taken at the microcosmic level, it follows that the cultural development of the person is an integral part of his entire development. The truly educated man must evince an appreciation for the beautiful in life. Appreciation of the arts must constitute a necessary part of education if we are to produce fully-developed individuals. On this note, I conclude my observations. I thank the House for the patience with which they have heard me out. 3.22 p.m.”
“The solution does not lie in building a "wall" around us but rather in strengthening our resources against harmful external influences. The Government's efforts have to be supplemented by that of parents, organisations and society. The various resources of the country have to be galvanised in combating the drug problem. Mr Speaker, Sir, as the President has observed, we have a generation of young people growing up with little knowledge of the hardships of their parents. These young people are part of the post-war generation. Most of their mature years were spent in the affluent climate ushered in by the People's Action Party. They have enjoyed the fruits of the new affluence but contributed little towards achieving it. There is, therefore, a tendency among the young to take the achievements of the older generation for granted. Sometimes the complacency and insensitivity of the young exceed decent boundaries, particularly when they resort to all manner of crime. Some of my colleagues have advised the imposition of more severe penalties on offenders. While they serve as a partial deterrent, it would not contribute a solution. I believe that the complementary solution lies in establishing an effective dialogue and better rapport with the young with a view to understanding their problems. This is where parents and organisations can come to the aid. In addition, leadership among young people may be provided by national service reservists. Having undergone rigorous training in the service of the nation, they are better able to appreciate its needs. Thus, national servicemen can serve as effective digits in society. As rightly pointed out by the Member for Ulu Pandan, the values which our young are growing up with, occasion some concern.”
“I would like to suggest that schools and colleges work closely with People's Association and other such bodies, particularly sports organisations, in an effort to intensify vigilance over our young people. Such close cooperation would enable school leavers to be easily channelled into activities that would develop their talents to the fullest. I am of the view that young people should undertake a proper balance of cultural and sporting activities. This would be one of the best means of ensuring that young people have a competence in both sports and the arts. I believe, Sir, the recent restructuring of our primary school system is an effort in the right direction in so far as it enables young people to choose their careers in accordance with their aptitudes and interests. Appropriate career guidance is essential so that everyone can find their appropriate niche in society. As for those young people who have succumbed to drug-addiction, I believe their addiction is symptomatic of their rebellion against society and is part of their general stance against the Establishment. Although many studies have been conducted to discover the cause for such attitudes, I do not think we have arrived at any authoritative conclusion. It is my view that the crux of the matter lies in the lack of sufficient spiritual or moral education of our young. It is true that the origin of the drug problem and the evolution of the drug sub-culture partly lies in the openness of Singapore society to external influence. As the gateway to the East, we receive a number of tourists. While they contribute to an increase in our foreign exchange earnings, they also leave behind a legacy of their particular influence and life-style.”
“Hence, there is the capacity to maintain unemployment figures at a relatively low rate. Despite all this there is an increasing crime rate in the Republic. Clearly, the simplistic equation of crime with poverty no longer holds true. The problem of crime in the Republic is further accentuated by the fact that, sometimes, even officers of the law have been guilty of contravening the law. Their offences have been sufficiently sensationalised by the Press, and it is not necessary for me to enlarge upon it here. The high crime rate is part of the price we have to pay for affluence, hut that does not mean that crime is ineradicable in an affluent society. The problem can be solved. However, before the appropriate remedies can be prescribed, an in-depth study of the problem is necessary. Accordingly, appropriate agencies must be set up to study the problem. The point I am trying to drive at Sir, is that a lot of social ills can be cured if new approaches are adopted. In this particular problem, the solution lies in adopting fresh approaches in an effort to understand our young people and their problems. The People's Association should be commended for having taken the initiative in giving the newly-formed Youth Executive Committee a greater say in the running of their programmes and activities. However, the number of youths involved in the activities of the community centres are lamentably small. The rest of our young people who are not usefully employed may be indulging in useless, if not harmful, pursuits. The waste of youthful talents is an eventuality that should be avoided at all cost, particularly as our only enduring resource is our manpower resource.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise to join my colleagues in expressing support to the President's Address on the opening of the Second Session of the Third Parliament. Much has been said on the various matters raised in the speech. However, I would like to focus my attention on that aspect of the speech which touches on the increasing crime rate in the country, particularly among youths. I think it proper that I should provide a few definitions and data before I proceed further. The United Nations has defined "youth" as a person under the age of 35. According to this definition, all persons above the age of 35 are automatically excluded from the category of youths. Of course, there are many people who claim that youthfulness is a quality of the mind and has little to do with chronological age. However, this is a controversy which I am not willing to enter into at the moment. According to the last census figures, it appears that 62% of the population are under 25 years of age while 51% are under 21. If the definitive age for youths is 35 years and under, then the percentage of youths will be much higher. To come to the point, Sir, what concerns me, and I am sure a lot of other people, is the increasing rate of crime such as robbery, theft and murder. The problem is aggravated further by the fact that most of those involved in such crimes are persons in their teens and early twenties. The President has observed that in the past high crime rate used to correspond with high unemployment figures. In Singapore, in spite of inflation and recession, which have resulted in some retrenchment, there are still opportunities for the jobless in other industries, such as construction and ship-repairing, provided they are not too choosy.”
“Even when there are no such contests as talentime, RTS welcomes anyone who feels he has some talent, in terms of contributing to its programmes, to write in for an audition whether it be for variety shows, dramas, comic sketches, magazine items, etc. The Member also mentioned that most of the radio programmes are imported ones. To say that most of the programmes being broadcast on radio are imported is not true. The overwhelming majority are in fact produced by our own staff locally. These comprise magazine programmes of various types for youths, workers, women, sports and musical programmes of every description. Feature programmes are also produced locally. It is true, however, that the plays broadcast in the English service are mainly BBC-produced because they have proved to be among the best available. RTS has attempted to produce local plays in English but they have not proved successful. Two drama writing competitions have been held but a good number of the scripts of plays received had stories similar to those already seen on TV. English-speaking stage groups are very few in number and when they stage plays, these are overwhelmingly plays and not locally written. The Member for Anson also raised a question on the use of the word "million" by Tamil announcers. The use of the word "million" was adopted in January 1972 after consultation with the Ministry of Education's Research and Statistics Division. The Tamil phrase for "one million" previously used was pathu lak sham. This is, however, not easily comprehended by the younger generation as in the Tamil schools in Singapore, where the word "million" is now extensively used.”
“Within these limitations, RTS producers have to do their best by way of presentation and production. All producers who join RTS are given in-service training. Until recently RTS had two BBC consultants to train its staff, one for radio and another for TV programmes. Their services were made possible through the Colombo Plan Technical Assistance Scheme. Training has always been in-service or on-the-job and the trainers are senior staff members who have to perform many other duties as well. Within these limitations, however, RTS does its best to provide training opportunities for its staff. The Member also raised the question on the payment of fees to artistes. The very fact that an artiste has, first of all, to be auditioned and to turn up for at least one rehearsal in the studio, apart from a pre-recording session in the case of some variety shows and finally to be present for recording the programme, is an indication that RTS producers do their best to be professional in their productions. Any station in the world which sets a high standard for itself regards these tests as a necessary part of production and not a fuss. If the fee is deemed miserable, it is another issue. RTS can only pay the fee that is stipulated in an approved schedule of fees and can only spend within the budget that it is given. It is a fact that very often it has to make the coat smaller than it need be because of the size of the cloth. Talents of a high standard are still relatively limited in number in Singapore, but no one is barred from any audition.”
“His other duties include the writing of announcements for music programmes and compiling of records or of programmes produced in our studios. He also has to draft the programme summaries at least twice in a day's transmission. He is called upon to draft emergency announcements as well. Depending on his versatility, an announcer also interviews, reads the news and comperes variety shows. Versatility, it might be stated here, is a very necessary quality in RTS. In any recruitment exercise for announcers, a voice test is set for all who have applied and who have the minimum paper qualification. The voice test consists of reading simple announcements for music programmes, public service announcements, commercials and a short news bulletin. Language fluency and proficiency are essentials for the passing of the voice test. Only those who pass the voice test are invited to sit for a written test. The written test consists of questions on basic general knowledge, current affairs, art and culture, and the drafting of simple announcements in view of the duties of announcers which I have just outlined. Persons with the potentialities of a good announcer are not easy to find. For instance, in the last recruitment exercise held in April last year for the English and the Chinese streams, the number of applicants was 278 for English and 479 for Chinese. Only five applicants from the 278 and three from the 479 were found to be suitable. Out of the five for the English stream, only two eventually joined RTS. As regards the standard of locally-produced programmes, it depends not only on the calibre of producers but also on the budget allowed for a production and on the talents that one can be found for production.”
“And if we were to introduce colour TV three or four years later, then we may have to pay a very much higher price. By that time the cost of equipment would have gone up and we would have to pay more for what we are getting now. When we introduce colour TV later this year, we will telecast only overseas film programmes and some local documentary films in colour for about one to two hours daily. Local studio and outside broadcast productions in colour will he telecast next year when the necessary equipment have been delivered and installed. The plan, in other words, is to "inject" colour programmes into the normal service on Channels 5 and 8 in planned stages. This is because the technical facilities both at our TV Studio Centre and Transmitting Station are required for use daily whilst new colour equipment is being installed. TV viewers would still be able to watch colour programmes on their black and white receivers though the pictures will be in black and white. They, therefore, need not involve themselves in extra expenditure in obtaining colour sets. It is also my Ministry's intention to advise the People's Association to install colour TV sets in the community centres so that the public at large can, if they wish, view colour programmes in colour. I come now to the question raised by the Member for Anson. He says that the broadcasting programme is poor and also that too much emphasis has been placed on paper qualification and not on talent. A minimum standard of educational qualification has to be set in any recruitment exercise. In the case of announcers, the minimum qualification is a School Certificate or its equivalent. An announcer does not only announce.”
“Now, Mr Speaker, Sir, coming back to the suggestion by the Member for Kampung Kembangan and also other Members that Government delay the introduction of colour TV, which Members have also expressed concern, may I be allowed, Sir, to inform Members that we cannot accede to their request because, as Members will recollect, in January, 1972, Government approved the introduction of colour TV. The whole project costs over $20 million over a period of four years. This House has accordingly voted $2.9 million last year for the project. Since then, a number of tenders have been called for the purchase of equipment. Our present black and white television service was inaugurated in February, 1963. This means that most of the equipment at our TV station is over 10 years old, and is due for replacement due to usage and fair wear and tear It would, therefore, be economically sound at this stage when replacing the equipment to introduce colour television. Moreover, if we were to defer this project, Singapore will be amongst the last of the South-east Asian countries to further develop its television service. Thailand and the Philippines introduced colour television a couple of years ago. 3.15 p.m. If we were to abandon the project at this juncture, it would also mean that we would not be able to fully utilise some of the equipment which we ordered and which was delivered before the energy crisis. In this respect, I would like to thank the Members for Kim Seng, Bras Basah and Moulmein who have expressed their support on the introduction of colour TV. We do not know when the energy crisis will be over, although the Arab countries have already lifted the oil embargo to the United States.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, before answering the Member for Kampung Kembangan and other Members who have suggested that the Government delay the introduction of colour TV in view of the present inflation and high prices which may cause a social burden to our people, let me answer the question by the Member for Sembawang first, as the Deputy Speaker had ruled yesterday that the Member's question could be answered together with the others in respect of subhead CA 1107, for which there is an amendment. The Member for Sembawang had asked my Minister yesterday when colour TV would be ready. And before I could give an answer, some Members had also, in fact, dwelt on the subject. Television Singapore will be radiating colour TV Trade and Test Transmissions consisting of Test Pattern, slides and films as from 2nd May, 1974. These transmissions will be radiated on: Channel 5: Weekdays from 10 a.m, to 12 noon and 2 p.m, to 3 p.m. Saturdays from 10 a.m, to 12 noon. Channel 8: Weekdays in between ETV programme slots (Test Pattern only) Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 2 p.m, to 3 p.m. A pilot colour TV service will be inaugurated in August, 1974. Film programmes from overseas and local documentary films will be scheduled for telecast on both channels during normal transmission hours. The number of such programmes in colour will be limited to a duration of one to two hours a day. Equipment orders for studio and outside broadcast productions have already been placed, and an extension to the pilot service will be effected when these equipment are delivered and installed.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, as I said earlier, the Publicity Division of the Ministry of Culture has no control over newspaper advertisements. I thought I have made that clear. Of course, if anybody or any reader has been cheated through newspaper advertisements, he can make a report to the Police. And following that, the Police will have to take action. We have the Film Censorship Board, which has the control over advertisements on films, but it has no control over advertisements in the newspapers. Mr P. Govindaswamy: That is an unsatisfactory reply. The Broadcasting Department comes under the Ministry of Culture. Why is he referring to Broadcasting? His Ministry is the responsible Ministry to take any action. But why did he say that the Publicity Division does not control Broadcasting but the Minister for Culture controls the Broadcasting Department? I am very sorry for this barrage of questions. However, I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.”
“Sir, I thought I have already answered the question of TV commercials. As I said, TV commercials do not come under the Publicity Division. It comes under the Broadcasting Department of the Ministry of Culture. I have already explained that because of this, other matters which are not related to the Ministry of Culture, for instance, this question of medicines or quack doctors and whatnots, come under different Ministries. I hope the Member for Anson is satisfied with this explanation.”
“Such matters are governed by the Medicines (Advertisement and Sale) Act which is administered by the Ministry of Health. For advertisements over TV in which medical claims are made in respect of certain drugs and cures, the Broadcasting Department insists on some form of supporting evidence or material. For example, if a claim is made in a commercial that a certain drug is recommended by doctors, then the Department of Broadcasting requires the advertiser to substantiate that such recommendations have been actually made by doctors. If there is any doubt regarding such claims, then the Department of Broadcasting will refer the matter to the Ministry of Health.”
“Sir, the vote on this subhead is to be allocated for the Head of the Publicity Division. The Publicity Division of the Ministry of Culture has no control over TV or newspaper advertisements. However, as for the advertisements on TV, the Broadcasting Department sees to it that every TV commercial submitted to the Department for use is subjected to two separate censorship viewings, first, by the Commercial Division and, second, by a panel of viewers under the charge of the film organiser. In both these areas, strict control is exercised to ensure that the content of the commercial, both radio and visual, adheres strictly to RTS programme code and copy policy. Many commercials depicting persons with long hair have been rejected, although these entail a loss of revenue. From January 1973 to date, the Department has rejected 29 filmlets on this ground. The corresponding figure in respect of slides is four. My officials in the Broadcasting Department are unable to recall any commercial showing youths with long hair romping round extolling the virtues of a cough mixture. Such a commercial would not have been allowed for telecast. 2.45 p.m. As for the content of advertisements inserted in the press, my Ministry does not censor them. If the public is cheated by dishonest advertisements, I think the matter should more appropriately be dealt with by the Police, and reports made to them. However, if my Ministry finds that any particular advertisement appearing in the newspapers is morally objectionable, my Ministry will advise the newspaper concerned to stop carrying such advertisements further. For the control of advertisements relating to medical matters, this function is also outside the purview of my Ministry.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the primary function of the Unit is to watch the mass media to ensure that no cigarette advertisements are being publicised contrary to the law. Other duties of the Anti-Smoking Unit include routine and systematic checks for cigarette advertisements in hotels, cinemas, theatres, bars, restaurants, markets, villages, etc; dealing with applications for exemption under the Act and, where exemptions have been granted, to check on the advertisements, be they on vehicles, printed matter or signboards; and vetting imported cigarette advertisement materials. So far the work has been satisfactory and there is very little or no infringement of the law, as most of the newspapers and other publications know these restrictions. We have already done the job. I quite agree with the Member that it is high time we abolished this Unit, and the staff absorbed into the administration unit of the Ministry of Culture, or the Publicity Division, as he has suggested.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, 76 films were banned by the Board of Film Censors during the year ending 28th February, 1973. Cinematograph films may be banned for various reasons, such as the glorification of gangsterism, violence, crime, hippism, free love, promiscuity, homosexuality, lesbianism, incest, permissiveness, religious prejudice and racism. A few films were banned for political reasons. INFLATION (Government measures) 3. Mr Teong Eng Siong asked the Minister for Finance what steps he has taken or proposes to take to combat inflation.”
“As a means of the democratization of culture, if I may use this term, the mass media has a crucial role to play in the diffusion of culture and constitutes an invaluable instrument for communication between the policy-makers and the general public, so that there will be understanding of the common objectives which are national in character. In my view, Sir, what is needed for the coming decade is that more attention should be paid to the building and strengthening of the infrastructure for the development of culture, which we already have either to a greater or a lesser degree. The need for attention to be paid to cultural development on a global scale is realised today, as it is, for example, by UNESCO which has begun during the last few years to concentrate on the problems of culture, as it did on the problems of education and science during the last 25 years of its existence. With the tempo of urbanisation increasing day by day in our Republic, we owe it to our citizens and to posterity not only to create material wealth for them, but also to provide them with the means and with every opportunity to live a happy and meaningful life, and as proud citizens of our Republic, in dignity and in friendship with our neighbours and friends abroad. Mr Speaker, Sir, I have pleasure in supporting the Motion. 5.45 p.m.”
“Cultural activities must, therefore, be channelled towards producing Singaporeans, especially Singaporeans of the future who are able to retain their national identity regardless of (or rather in addition, able to withstand) the onslaught of unknown influences which must surely come in the 21st century of urbanised living. Problems there will be and must be successfully surmounted, especially in areas which concern the mass media (which are powerful instruments and can be used either for good or for evil), science and technology or what may be called technical civilisation, and, of course, youth, in many ways the key to the future. Hence, the environment we live in, both in physical and social terms, should be one which contributes to the building of a stable, creative and all round personality in our citizens. Therefore, a policy of cultural development should be on the basis that culture is an inseparable part of daily life and go side by side with life-long education. Hence, all manner of cultural activities, which would include all manner of activities where there is social inter-action, should be made accessible to all. In this sense, Sir, the fine arts (music, drama and dance) should not be confined to only the elite. It is only with individual participation at all levels that cultural activities can be of benefit and help in the task and the process of nation building. Our leaders have stressed the importance of the development of culture in nation-building, and now is the moment to give serious attention to the implementation of a cultural policy towards this end.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise to join other hon. Members in congratulating the Minister for Finance for his popularly known painless Budget statement which outlined the Government's financial policy. I do not intend to speak on the economic aspects of the Budget, which have already been dealt with by many Members who have spoken in support of the Motion. In his Budget speech, the Minister for Finance revealed that the average per capita income in Singapore is now $3,687. With a growth rate of 15 per cent in our Gross Domestic Product for 1972 over 1971, the economic indicators show that our Republic is now in a better position to devote more attention to the subject of leisure and the development of culture as an integral part of the social and economic development of our nation. By culture, I do not mean only the fine arts, such as music, drama and dance. Rather, I am referring to all that are concerned with the quality of life. This is where effort should be made in ensuring that, among Singaporeans, the art of living should be one which is Singaporean in character and recognised by others to be such. The way towards this may be one involving a long process but the end result, when recognised to be successful, would be a most satisfying one; that is, when we Shave Singaporeans who are well-mannered; always civic-minded; always courteous; friendly in disposition; well-disciplined; imbued with the values and ideals which are positive in character; endowed with a healthy body and an alert mind; possessing a well-rounded personality and endowed with creative sensibilities which can be further developed through an exposure to the fine arts, such as music, drama and the dance.”
“We, on the other hand, are a party which have come up against many problems in the past, introduced many crucial adaptations and changes which have to be made, unpopular as they might have been to some people. In spite of the prophets of doom, who have unsuccessfully tried their best to discourage us in our endeavours, we intend to continue to face and overcome whatever obstacles that come our way in the future. Unlike those who make' promises at election time and then, not being elected, disappear completely from the scene without any more interest in the people whom they pretend to stand for and to look after, we plan many years ahead and anticipate or try to anticipate the changing scenes and the many problems which come within the orbit not only of Singapore but of all other countries as well. As a nation of doers and not criers, we always gear ourselves to meet the challenges ahead. I am concerned with the problems of nation building which, as the Member for Bukit Merah has rightly said, should be treated with utmost sincerity as they are affected by the various aspects of culture. Mass media is a most powerful weapon, and my Ministry intends to see that it is used to unify and consolidate the building of our nation with the right aims and attitudes towards peace and progress. The various aspects of cultural and social activities which come within the purview of my Ministry are directed and channelled towards the building of character of our citizens, especially our youths, so that not only will they be hard-working and achievement-oriented but they will also be mentally active and loyal citizens of the Republic, able to appreciate things of aesthetic value and are always intellectually alive and responsive to changes which take place beyond our shores. 4.10 p.m.”
“Since we have an unfavourable man-land ratio, we have to plan the use of every inch of this resource very carefully. We have to compensate for this unfavourable man-land ratio by acquisition in the national interest - in other words, land not economically used is acquired for public projects to benefit a thousand times the number of people who have to move out. Dislocation is caused to the affected few. But there should be no hard feelings if those affected understand that if Singapore were 10 or 20 times its present size, such dislocation would not be necessary. Yet unscrupulous politicians told those affected that should their parties be elected and come to power, these urban renewal or redevelopment projects would be reversed or halted. Certain political parties in Singapore will not hesitate to set back the clock of national progress in their efforts to win votes. This is very sad for them because the concept of an alternative government with a two-party system means that the alternative programme must be as progressive and constructive, if not more so, as the ruling party's, if they are to have any prospects at a general election. However, their empty promises did have some effect during the last general elections. The electorate in Singapore must be taught to be more critical and analytic. The result of the last general elections has demonstrated beyond any shadow of doubt that there are still those in Singapore, be they political parties or individuals, who would seek to come to power not for the benefit of the people as such, but for their own benefits, irrespective of what harm their policies would do to our Republic.”
“This means that whether in business or in the Government services, each man finds his way to the room at the top only on his own merit. Singaporeans will have to continue to be economic animals. In fact, any halt to Singapore's economic development will be a national catastrophe. But from time to time there have been pleas that we be not an ugly society of people who know the price of everything but the value of nothing. It simply means that dollar-worship should be matched by aesthetic appreciation. It is good for Singaporeans to make money, but in doing so, they must advance the national interest and, better still, cultivate a love for arts. This way, we become better Singaporeans. The stress on the appreciation of arts and beauty is timely. This is the best time for such a clarion call to be made. It would have been premature if the call was made in our earlier period of economic development. Now that we are sharing the fruits of national development, we should apply ourselves seriously to the arts, since most of us can afford it. And if at such a time we should fail to place the right emphasis on cultural development, then we are to blame if ours becomes a gross and crude society. The President has said that Singapore's limited land resources means that "we cannot seek fame for sheer size". But we can be synonymous with human excellence. This means, among other things, that we can be world-known as a society of cultural refinement. We can achieve this because we possess the cultural resources of all the major races on the globe. The other related point I wish to make is the necessity to work hard in the national interest. So long as the economy is kept buoyant, our prosperity is assured, not forgetting the need for national defence.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I wish to associate myself with the Member for Bukit Batok in moving a motion to express our thanks to the President for the speech which he delivered on behalf of the Government at the opening of the First Session of the Third Parliament on 12th October, 1972. The President has outlined some guidelines for Singapore. When translated into practical terms, it will mean a better life for the mostest number of people at the expense of marginal sacrifices by those able to bear them. Living conditions in Singapore have already been kept stable and non-inflationary since 1959. The developed nations have not fared well in this respect. There, galloping inflation is the order of the day. Irresponsible trade unionism is another menace, so much so that one wag says that the unions may succeed in abolishing the working week altogether. In those countries, the status quo has been defined as the mess they are in, which includes pollution and all the rest of it. It is easy to understand that the soil there is conducive to the development of hippi-ism and other hedonistic philosophies. Those who have travelled abroad find the contrast between Singapore and other societies evident. In the developing societies, they will find that there is no economic take-off simply because the governments and the people do not pull together and make the necessary sacrifices. Many a developing society is left far behind in the race for economic development. In Singapore, nobody starves if he is able-bodied and prepared to accept any job offered, even if he is unskilled. It means that the correct formula for nation-building has been found by us. The cornerstone of nation-building is a realistic policy of "from each his best, to each according to his ability".”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the full duties and functions of the Education Officer are: the conducting of tours in the public galleries and lessons in the school's museum; organising and conducting regular - specialised courses for qualified and trainee teachers; selecting and screening films on Saturdays; organising illustrated talks and demonstrations to Pre-University and upper secondary students and teachers once a month; assisting schools to establish science clubs and giving illustrated talks and demonstrations to these clubs; supervising the preparation of biological specimens for loan to teachers; and organising special talks, demonstrations and film shows for students and teachers when requested. As to the Member for Katong's suggestions that we should also include all the other aspects, like art, etc., I am sure we could look into them. At present, the courses are conducted in English and Chinese. It is hoped that in future they would also be conducted in Malay and Tamil. However, students and teachers from all the four language streams have participated in the school service activities because those in the Malay and Tamil media understand English and can follow the lectures, demonstrations, and film shows. From 1st April, 1972, two Education Officers will be seconded from the Ministry of Education to the Science Centre Board to carry on the school's service in the National Museum where a limited number of physical science exhibits will be retained until the Science Centre in Jurong is completed.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, as I said in my reply to the question raised by one of the Members just now, from the 1st of April, the National Museum will again become a department under the Ministry of Culture. With the establishment of the Science Centre in Jurong, as the Member for Katong has already mentioned, the physical science exhibits in the Museum will be transferred to the new Science Centre, and the present Museum building will become an anthropological and art museum.”
“As I said just now, there was an advisory committee on film classification headed by Dr Peter S. J. Chan, and was set up by this Ministry in May 1971. The committee has submitted a report which recommends, among other things, that a simple film classification system be introduced. It suggests that films should be classified into two categories, one for general exhibition, and another for restricted screening to adults aged 18 and above only. Owing to the difficulty of checking the ages of audiences and the fact that the trend of producing pornographic films has declined somewhat in the West, most of our local film distributors and exhibitors are not keen on film classification as they have expressed satisfaction with our present censorship system. That is the position.”
“Mr Teong Eng Siong(In Mandarin): Sir, after hearing the reply given by the Parliamentary Secretary, I am not satisfied because he has not been specific whether his department wants to implement film classification.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Ministry of Culture has always been very strict in censoring violent films, and all Chinese films which show excessive violence are either banned or appropriately censored before they are released for public exhibition. As a result of strict censorship, coupled with the change in the trend of production, the number of violent Chinese films released for public exhibition has been reduced considerably in recent months. It is anticipated that this year's import of films of this category by local distributors will be lessened. The Ministry will continue to exercise strict censorship to eliminate scenes of callousness, violence and bloodshed. As was pointed out in the last Budget session, despite discussions among film distributors, exhibitors and ordinary cinema-goers, there was no definite consensus of opinion among the parties concerned on the system of film classification and whether or not a particular system would definitely be better than the existing film censorship. Sir, an advisory committee on film classification was set up by the Minister in May 1971. After considering its report, tt was considered that the advantages accruing from classification of films were marginal as compared with the problems which have to be overcome. Among these were the problems of enforcement and what may be termed the differing standpoints of the different cultural groups, e.g., vis-a- vis- risque scenes on the one hand, and violent sword-fighting scenes on the other. No decision has, therefore, been taken as to whether film classification should be introduced for the present. I hope I have answered the Member's query satisfactorily.”
“Sir, generally priority consideration has to be made in the choice of service points. This includes accessibility of the mobile library van to the service points of community centres. The van is a large vehicle and requires a fair amount of space for parking and manoeuvring around. Another consideration is whether a spare room is available to house an emergency book stock in case of vehicle breakdown, thus ensuring no disruption in service. Other considerations are how well-used the community centre is by the residents of the district, and how close the centre is to the nearest library service. Mr P. Govindaswamy: In view of the explanation by the Parliamentary Secretary, I beg leave to withdraw. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the National Library at present has 12 mobile library service points. These are at community centres in Pasir Panjang, Bukit Panjang, Kampong Cheng San, Kampong Tengah, MacPherson, Nee Soon, Changi 10 ms., Bukit Timah, Tanjong Pagar, Paya Lebar, Kaki Bukit and Chong Pang Village. Rural areas are served through mobile library points, which include those at Bukit Panjang, Kampong Tengah, Changi 10 ms., Kaki Bukit and Chong Pang Village community centres. The mobile library makes weekly visits to these community centres. The National Library has plans to extend its mobile library service to other rural areas such as Woodlands, Punggol and Tampines.”
“Because of the long unpredictable duration of full length Tamil films - I hope the Member for Anson takes note of this - it is difficult to schedule them between 6.00 p.m, and 9.50 p.m. News telecast takes place during this period and this has to be at stipulated times.”
“Subsequently they are also expected to do interviews for television as well as radio. Here again, some reporters have shown more ability in this area of work than others. Courses in the art of interview have in the past few years been conducted for new staff recruited for programme work. Since last year a Colombo Plan expert for radio has been conducting training courses for the staff, which include the art of interview. This and other courses will continue to be held. Training for our reporters in this field was started last month under a Colombo Plan expert for television. It is hoped that such in-service sessions will help improve the quality of interviewing for radio and television. I hope the Member for Katong is satisfied with the answer. With regard to the Member for Anson's complaint about the Tamil programmes, R.T.S, do not telecast the Tamil film either on Channel 5 or 8 on Mondays. Tamil films usually appear as a regular feature on Channel 8 on Thursdays at 9.45 p.m, and Fridays at 10.00 p.m. There is, however, a light musical programme in Tamil entitled Nam Isainyarkal, i.e., Our Music Makers, which is telecast at 8.05 p.m, on Mondays on Channel 8. For the Family In Tamil is telecast on Channel 8 at 8.45 p.m, on Wednesdays. Also on Channel 8 at 6.10 p.m, on Saturdays there is a Tamil drama, Naadaga Arangam. On Sundays, a variety show, Amuthum Thenum, is telecast at 5.45 p.m. It can be seen from this that Tamil programmes are evenly spread throughout the week's hours of transmission, with some programmes scheduled in early evening slots and others a little later. This is also the case with programmes in the other languages. It is not possible to telecast programmes in a particular language only at peak hours.”
“Sir, in reply to the Member for Katong who said that he was very much concerned with the quality of interviews, and reports, etc, and also that more training opportunities should be given to the younger staff of the Broadcasting Department, I have this to say. Training for Programmes staff, i.e., Announcers, Producers and Assistant Producers, includes lectures as well as practical work. A good interviewer is not made after attending a single course on the art of interviewing. He needs to be given time to build up confidence and to gain practical experience. A follow-up of this programme has to be done. We have also sent members of the Broadcasting staff for training overseas. It is agreed that there is room for improvement in the standard of interviewing by R.T.S, staff, including its news reporters. For reasons of economy, R.T.S, do not recruit staff purely to do interviews, that is, they are employed with only the qualifications for that specific job. To accept the proposal that we have such specialists in R.T.S, would mean a radical change in staffing and equipment, with a corresponding increase in financial provision. R.T.S, announcers and producers are presently expected to be able to announce, compere, read the news, write scripts, produce programmes, interview and comment either for radio broadcasts or for television, or for both. Some of them do their jobs more competently than others, while some are only able to do one or two of these jobs well. The same versatility is expected of R.T.S, reporters, who also cover both for radio and television. Persons recruited as R.T.S, reporters generally have no journalistic experience, and therefore they have first to learn the job about news reporting.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, both the Victoria Theatre and the Victoria Memorial Hall with the clock tower were completed as one unit of a building in 1906. Previous to that, the Theatre section of the present building was built as a Town Hall in 1862. Subsequently, it underwent many changes and was completely renovated and redecorated in 1958. At present, Victoria Theatre and Victoria Memorial Hall building is more than 60 years old. It has become a historical landmark. Architecturally, it evinces interest as it stands in imposing contrast with the many buildings, which were erected by local architects, both in its vicinity and throughout the Republic. I do not think that it would be an advantage to modify old buildings merely because they were built in colonial times. To the Member's suggestion that the State crest should be erected on the clock tower, I think this matter has to be referred to the proper authorities.”
“Sir, I will look into this matter. We had two performances on the 18th and 19th March for the public and school children. But since the Member has made his request, we will try to organise these shows. An hon. Member: Make sure you have a show in Sembawang!”
“Although local newspapers are licensed by my Ministry, there is no press control in Singapore, and the policy of the newspapers is dictated by persons owning and running the newspapers. If the general public is strongly in favour of more local news, then they can quite easily make their opinions felt by writing to the newspapers in the man-in-the-street column or letters to the editor column. There is no doubt that any socially responsible newspaper will respond to such a reasonable request if it is backed by a predominance of its subscribers. I have no doubt that there will be the balancing factor in that other subscribers will ask for more foreign news. Then the newspapers concerned will have to strike a happy medium between the subscribers and in this way able to give the public what they want.”
“An Art Gallery should not only be a display centre but also a focus of dynamic and forward-looking activities in the field of the arts, especially among the younger generation. As I have said earlier, plans are now being finalised to establish the Art Gallery. As for the Member's other proposals that the Ministry should try to get a piece of land along the Queen Elizabeth Walk area for the purpose of holding art exhibitions in the open and also to put up sculptures on traffic islands, I am taking note of his proposals and will let him know of the developments in due course. The Member for Anson mentioned that when the staff of the Straits Times Group went on strike, there were no English and Malay newspapers during the period of the strike, except for Chinese and Tamil newspapers. And the Member experienced difficulty during that period and suggested that the Ministry of Culture should issue bulletins in the absence of newspapers. The staff of the Straits Times Group went on strike from 24th to 31st December, 1971. During this period, the English and Malay educated segments of the population were deprived of printed news. Apart from Chinese and Tamil newspapers, the only other source of Malay and English news was the radio and television. Radio and Television Singapore at the time gave greater coverage to local and foreign news. The strike mentioned was of very short duration. Had it continued, steps would have been taken to remedy the position. As a matter of interest, certain measures were being considered to provide for such a situation should it occur in the future. All newspapers in Singapore are run by private concerns.”
“However, in view of the tremendous success of the cultural mission to the Adelaide Cultural Festival, serious consideration is being given to further develop our cultural performances and to organise more cultural troupes. This will mean greater expenditure. I have no doubt that at the right time provision will be voted for in Parliament. He has also suggested that a Cultural Fund should be set up so that any moneys collected can be used to finance various cultural organisations in the Republic to carry out their cultural activities. This is a good suggestion, and I can assure him that we will look into it. On the question of a permanent Art Gallery raised by the Member for Jurong, at the moment the Ministry of Culture is finalising plans to establish an Art Gallery to be housed in the National Museum building. This Art Gallery will no doubt be of considerable interest to both local visitors and overseas tourists. With the reversion of the National Museum to the Ministry of Culture from 1st April, 1972, we intend to convert the back portion of the National Museum building into an Art Gallery. In this connection, the Singapore Arts Council has made an offer to contribute $650.000 towards the conversion. The proposed Art Gallery will provide facilities for a permanent display of about 150 paintings and sculptures on a rotation basis. Facilities will also be provided for temporary art exhibitions and the sale of paintings and sculptures. In addition, there will also be a small multi-purpose theatrette for about 150 to 200 persons so that all those who are involved in the visual and the performing arts can make use of this theatrette for their cultural activities. 5.00 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, first of all, I wish to thank the Member for Sembawang for all the nice things he has said, especially on the success of our cultural mission to Adelaide. I appreciate the compliments made by him. Now he has also advocated the sending of more cultural delegations aboard. I share with him the hope that, with further effort and planning by all those interested in the performing arts and with some financial support from Government and the public, we can send more cultural troupes abroad. As I have said earlier in replying to a question raised by the Member for Jurong, my Ministry is considering how best to organise more cultural missions overseas. Now that we have a cultural troupe which has successfully performed in Adelaide, this can form the nucleus of such cultural troupes. With the valuable experience gained particularly in meeting all the problems involved in the preparation of a cultural troupe of this nature, and possibly also, in general, the establishment of a dance company, we are now in a better position to consider how best Singapore can begin to form either a strong amateur cultural group or a modest semi-professional dance company, which will give cultural performances abroad as well as locally. I think the Member for Sembawang also suggested that cultural troupes should give performances at community centres so that the people will have a chance to see cultural shows, thereby increasing the number of cultural activities in Singapore, in this case, the performing arts. He has also asked whether the Ministry of Culture has any plans to organise cultural festivals. There are no specific plans to organise cultural festivals at the moment.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, as I have said just now, I fully agree with the Member that more money should be allocated to the National Theatre Trust in order that it can carry out its cultural activities. I promise I will look into this matter, and also draw my Minister's attention to it.”
“I cannot think of a more potent way in which the Tourist Promotion Board can help itself to fulfil its main function of attracting tourists to Singapore, as has been suggested by the Member for Jurong.”
“If the sending of one cultural delegation abroad can have such a reaction, it logically follows therefore that if we send more cultural troupes overseas, the image will be even more pronounced provided, of course, that the standard of performances is of a high level. I should point out, however, that my Ministry is considering the possibility of organising such a cultural troupe either on a permanent or on a part-time basis, and also how best this troupe should be organised and maintained, and the best way in which this can be done. But whilst we may provide the wherewithal to present our cultural activities, we are not in a position to promote Singapore's image overseas principally because of the lack of funds. This is essentially a matter for the Tourist Promotion Board. As Members may be aware, sending a cultural troupe overseas costs a lot of money, quite apart from the time spent on constant rehearsals and training. There is also the question of providing air fares, costumes, insurance, allowances and other incidentals. I think the suggestion of the Member is worth pursuing as the promotion of Singapore's image abroad is a matter which, I consider, rests with the Tourist Promotion Board. I would suggest that the Tourist Promotion Board give serious consideration to such ventures in the future by providing, in liaison with Mercury Singapore Airlines, which will be soon our national airline, and the hotels and other tourist establishments, the necessary facilities for travel, accommodation, allowances, etc., to make such overseas trips possible, thereby propagating the idea of Singapore as a multi-racial, multi-cultural Republic, and thus attracting more tourists to our island.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, it is considered unnecessary at this stage for the Government to take over the National Theatre Trust as it is running the National Theatre quite well. At the moment, the National Theatre Trust has a 40-member Chinese orchestra and a 38-member choir comprising amateurs who rehearse and perform from time to time. It is envisaged that if such a Chinese orchestra and choir were to be formed into a permanent, or even a semi-professional body, a large amount of money would have to come from the Government. I quite agree with the Member for Jurong that more money should be allocated to this subhead so that we can assist cultural bodies in the Republic to carry out their cultural activities. I would like to comment on the suggestion of the Member with regard to organising a permanent troupe to perform overseas as a promotional effort to publicise Singapore and to project a true multi-racial image of Singapore. As Members know, early this month we sent a 62-member-strong cultural delegation to Adelaide. This delegation put up performances which were well received. The performances were spectacular and colourful not only in themselves but also in the costumes and presentation and made a tremendous impact on the Australian audience. Apart from the audiences in Adelaide, the performances were telecast live over television throughout Australia. I have no doubt that the performances by this troupe have made the Australians much more aware of the multi-cultural and multi-racial content of Singapore, and will certainly implant in their minds a desire to come to Singapore or at least to stop over at Singapore and see things for themselves. This no doubt will be a big boost to the tourist trade, and with it the hotels, restaurants and night -club businesses.”
“Singapore leaders must be problem-solvers and reformers, understanding the problems around them and helping the people reorientate their thinking and adopt correct attitudes to new ways of living. Grass-roots organisations like the Citizens' Consultative Committees and the community centres can help a great deal in this respect, for they serve as a very useful and profitable liaison between the Government and the people. Once we accept the fact that modernisation is inevitable and adaptation is our only course of action, we will really begin our progress. 3.40 p.m.”
“This will automatically mean that very little attention is paid to the children, and this could lead to a drop in the quality of education, at a time when education is all-important to a young and vigorous Republic determined to speed ahead. Adapting to life in high-rise flats -which has become the order of the day-- is but one aspect of adapting to urbanisation and modernisation, which is inevitable in our society. Traditional practices which hinder progress have to be discarded and new achievement-orientated values imbued, especially in our young. All citizens should be motivated to reach the top. To press purposefully on to our goals, it is imperative that we infuse a spirit of oneness, a sense of cohesiveness, in our people. Working for a common objective will help create the harmonious society we are striving for. "Sacrifice" is the key word in this context. Those people who have been affected by reclamation schemes have to sacrifice for the sake of the whole population. The Government is quite aware of the hardship and difficulties posed by resettlement. These are being minimised as far as possible. The rate for resettlement compensation has been increased, for instance. But we cannot please everybody. Some of the people will always have to sacrifice something for the sake of the common good. Singaporeans have to be outward looking, not inward-looking. We must not become too Singapore-centred. We should strive to be aware of situations in other countries. Comparing standards of living, Singaporeans should be thankful for what they have. True leadership, not only political leadership but leadership at all levels, can greatly facilitate the process of modernisation.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of the motion moved by the Member for Ulu Pandan in thanking the President for his speech delivered at the opening of the Second Session of the Second Parliament recently. Mr Speaker, Sir, I do not want to speak on subjects that my colleagues here have already touched on. What I would like to talk about today is some aspects of urban living in Singapore that may tend to escape our more immediate notice. More than half of our people will be living in high-rise flats by 1975. During the family planning campaign organised last year by the Family Planning Board, I had the opportunity of observing life in several of the Housing and Development Board estates. I noticed that nearly all the large families living in H.D.B, flats were from the lower income level, in the H.D.B. one-room flats, for example, the number of occupants averaged, strangely enough, some six to eight people. Most of these people were either resettled families affected by clearance schemes or those dependent for their livelihood on hawking or other low-paid jobs such as manual labour and lorry driving. If we do not want to see our H.D.B, estates degenerate into slums because of this kind of overcrowding, our people must be made to understand the vital importance of family planning, the need to keep a family small in order to maintain a high standard of living. We must therefore eradicate the old concept that large families are a sign of prosperity. Large families, more often than not, mean low family income, with the parents having to work extra hard to supplement their finances.”