Sharael Taha
Singapore
“L, link regional ecosystems. O, we orchestrate with AI and frontier technologies. And W, we win by creating greater economic value, better jobs and better lives for Singaporeans. For the past 60 years, Singapore mastered the movement of ships. Then we mastered the movement of aircraft. Today, we are mastering the movement of data.”
“This is a test of our social compact, a compact that must now be renewed for a new era where businesses commit to not just profits but to people, where workers commit to not just jobs, but to lifelong growth, and where the Government continues to stand with both, ensuring that no one is left behind.”
“Thank you, Mr Speaker. I would like to thank Minister Tan for sharing the dual fuel nature of our power plants. My supplementary question is how quick is this switching? Can it manage the volatility, especially this unprecedented volatility? And do we need to re-optimise our power plants to manage our energy generation resilience?”
“Thank you, Chairman. Chairman, the Rail Reliability Taskforce has set out clear recommendations – accelerate renewal of ageing core systems, including train signalling and traction power, strengthen backup and resilience measures, improve asset management and spare part planning, deepen workforce capabilities and enhance commuter communic…”
“Thank you, Chairman. I thank the Minister and the political office holders for their comprehensive response. I have a few supplementary questions. I believe the Minister did not get an opportunity to address my cut on the role of NAIC. What precisely is its role?”
“Okay. Mr Chairman, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Minister Josephine Teo, Senior Minister of State Tan Kiat How, Minister of State Rahayu, Minister of State Jasmin Lau and the Permanent Secretary of MDDI, and the whole MDDI team for the responses and the great work that they do.”
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“In Singapore, pressures are compounded by our reliance on imports and tight labour markets. While we can manage volatility, we remain a price-taker. The sustainable path forward is for wages to rise faster than costs, through productivity and through better jobs. Government support through Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers, U-Save, service and conservancy charges (S&CC) rebates, cash payouts and MediSave top-ups has provided some cushioning for families. But the rising cost of doing business must not be overlooked. Small shops such as food and beverage (F&B) outlets, retailers, minimarts, lifestyle stores, gyms and neighbourhood shops, are place-makers, the heartbeat of our communities. They greet us daily, serve our families for years and give our areas character. They make our communities vibrant and provide comfort in the familiarity of everyday life. Yet behind the counter, many face this deep anxiety. They pour their savings into renovations and equipment, only to find leases shorter than their recovery periods. For some, rent forms up to 20% of their costs. The looming fear of the next rent increase weighs heavily on their minds. Many cannot simply pass the costs to customers without losing them, nor can they sustain wages for their staff if margins collapse. This uncertainty forces them to worry about survival instead of focusing on growth. We must give these small businesses greater assurance and I would like to offer a few suggestions. First, we should build on the Fair Tenancy Framework developed during COVID-19. It covers 11 areas of fair terms but remains voluntary and does not address rent escalation. I am not suggesting rent control in any way.”
“We need more businesses to come forward to invest in our graduates to mentor them, to give them the business context and prepare them for future roles. Second, expand structured apprenticeships. Singapore has made progress with the AI Apprenticeship Programme and the Oracle Programme, but we must extend this model to other sectors, such as manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, operations and the green economy. Unlike short, unstructured internships which has limited success, apprenticeships must provide both technical training, the business context and workplace readiness. Thirdly to strengthen collaboration. Within government, industries and education institutions must align their efforts and set standards. Germany’s dual education system is instructive: combining classroom learning with real workplace training which produces industry-ready talent. By adapting some of the useful elements of such approaches, Singapore can fill critical skills gaps and uplift vocational careers. Fourthly, about encouraging community initiatives. In Pasir Ris-Changi, one of our volunteers, Arshad, together with Al-Mawaddah Mosque and M³ at Pasir Ris-Changi, organised an overnight biking event ending with professionals sharing their work experience with youths. Such grassroots efforts from peer-support groups can link professional networks to the jobseekers. Mr Speaker, the anxieties of jobseekers are real and the frustrations of businesses are real. But so too, are the opportunities. If Government, businesses, educators, unions and the community stand together in a “we first” spirit, we can close the gaps, redesign roles and prepare our people for the future. Mr Speaker, the cost of living has risen globally due to supply chain disruptions, conflicts and tougher business conditions.”
“So we face a paradox: graduates say they cannot find jobs, while businesses say they cannot find workers. The mismatch lies not in the numbers but in alignment – between skills taught and skills and experience demanded and between expectation and realities. The National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) has framed this paradox through four gaps: the Expectation Gap, the Skills Gap, the Opportunity Gap, and the Experience Gap. I would add a fifth: the Job Redesign Gap. On the Expectation Gap: technology has reshaped hiring. With one-click portals and AI-tailored CVs, jobseekers can now apply for dozens, if not hundreds, of roles daily. Employers are swamped with CVs, making it unrealistic to expect replies to every applicant. Jobseekers and their parents must adjust to this new reality. On the Job Redesign Gap: with AI, businesses are struggling to define entry-level roles fast enough. Tasks once designed by fresh graduates such as research, doing slides, doing minutes, are now automated. Companies need graduates who can apply AI but within a business context. This requires rethinking roles so fresh graduates remain cost-effective contributors while still gaining the experience. So, how do we bridge these gaps then? And I would like to offer four suggestions. Firstly, scale up the GRaduate Industry Traineeship (GRiT) Programme. Let me declare my interest as a Workforce Singapore (WSG) board member. GRiT supports graduates from universities, polytechnics, the Institutes of Technical Education (ITEs) and private institutions, giving them industry-relevant skills. It provides an allowance- up to 70% funded by WSG, and 30% by host organisations. By October 2025, there will be 800 structured traineeships. The challenge is to scale it up.”
“The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) reported on 17 September that while employment for fresh graduates soon after university rose by 4% in 2024, the rate remains at just 51.9% – leaving about 8,600 still unemployed. A joint survey by the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Management University (SMU), Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), and Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) showed only 87.1% of graduates secured work within six months in 2024, down from 89.6% in 2023, continuing a declining trend since 2022. For private institution graduates, outcomes were worse, with fewer securing jobs and fewer securing full-time roles. Youth unemployment under 30 also inched up from 5.4% to 5.7%. However, this is not a simple Private Education Institution versus Autonomous University comparison. The real issue is whether courses equip graduates with the skills the industry demands. The trend is clear: our young graduates face a tougher, more uncertain path. And we must work together to make things better for them. On the other hand, employers see the problem differently but no less seriously. MNCs, SMEs and local enterprises all share the same challenge: they cannot find enough Singaporeans to fill the roles. Hiring managers struggle to find the right candidates. The data supports this. Unemployment remains below 2%, yet there are still more vacancies than jobseekers – 1.64 jobs per unemployed person. The 2025 ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey found that 43% of employers still intend to hire. On MyCareersFuture, more than 23,000 of the 68,000 listed jobs are for fresh graduates, executives, and senior executives, in roles such as engineers, marketers, data specialists and operational planners.”
“Mr Speaker, the confluence of supply chain realignments, geopolitical conflicts, tariffs, rapid advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and the fracturing of societies due to distrust has fuelled deep anxiety. The world ahead feels unpredictable and uncertain. As a Member of Parliament (MP) and through my professional experience, I have had conversations with residents of Pasir Ris-Changi, Singaporeans from all walks of life, foreign professionals, investors, businesses from multinational corporations (MNCs) and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to local stallholders in our pasar. In our communities, including the Malay/Muslim community, two anxieties stand out most clearly. Firstly, on jobs and employability: fresh graduates seeking their first role, mid-career workers striving to stay relevant, and seniors struggling to find opportunities. And secondly, on the cost of living and the cost of doing business: from rent to wages to dealing with tariffs. Let me begin with jobs and employability with a focus on fresh graduates. In conversations with fresh graduates, a common refrain is their struggle to land that first job. Many tell me they have sent over a hundred curriculum vitae (CVs) without a single reply. They have tried LinkedIn, career coaches, networking events, peer-support groups; yet remain unemployed. Parents too share their anxiety, contrasting today’s reality with the past when jobs came more quickly. Graduates lament that companies demand experience, but without the opportunity, how can they ever gain it? Silence from employers with CVs submitted leaves them questioning whether vacancies are real, whether they are being overlooked, or whether there are deeper structural issues in the job market. The data reflects this struggle.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the following Address in reply to the Speech of the President be agreed to: 'We, the Parliament of the Republic of Singapore, 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 this Parliament'." Mr Speaker, the President’s Address reminded us of the profound transitions of our time; a world in flux, both globally and at home. We see the sharpening rivalry between the United States (US) and China, and the erosion of the rules-based order that has enabled Singapore to survive so far. Increasingly, we face a divided world where aggression, coercion and the weaponisation of trade have become commonplace, while rapid technological change reshapes our societies at an unprecedented pace. Against this backdrop, the President set out four key challenges. Firstly, securing our country against both conventional and unconventional threats; secondly, transforming our economy while tackling existential challenges such as climate change; thirdly, assuring Singaporeans at every stage of life on jobs, housing, healthcare and cost-of-living; and forth, strengthening our social compact so that work is valued fairly, the vulnerable are cared for with compassion, and every Singaporean is empowered to pursue their dreams. More importantly, he reminded us that our future depends on unity; nurturing a “we first” society built on trust, resilience and shared purpose. Mr Speaker, the President characterised these as not just “transient headwinds” but rather, “fundamental shifts in the tide.” And in times of change, two emotions shape our human response, one of anxiety and another one of hope. It is through this lens that I shape my speech today.”
“Thank you, Speaker. I would like to thank Minister Vivian for his clarification that we will recognise the Palestinian state and it is a question of when, not if. I appreciate the position has evolved, given the deteriorating circumstances. However, many may find it hard to understand the preconditions and could approach it from a very binary stand – either we support or we do not support – which can lead to a lot of misunderstanding, especially when other countries have had their individual separate reasons for doing so. My question to the Minister is, how can we better communicate this position of ours so that there is no misunderstanding within the country and with other countries? That is my first supplementary question. My second supplementary question is to the Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs and I will ask the supplementary question in Malay. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] It is extremely difficult and heartbreaking to witness the suffering and loss of innocent lives in Gaza and we have provided substantial assistance to them. How can Singapore and Singaporeans continue to help those in Palestine? And how can we also put an end to this suffering, call for a ceasefire, provide immediate humanitarian aid to victims in Gaza and work with other countries to find a lasting and peaceful solution for the Palestinian people?”
“Speaker, I would like to thank the Prime Minister for his assuring words on the uncertainty that is facing us today. Sir, given the imposition of tariffs on our exports to the US, as Member Saktiandi Supaat has already highlighted, there could be significant implications for our semi-conductor and our biomedical sectors. Has there been any indication of a slowdown or withdrawal of foreign investments in Singapore? My second clarification is, in light of the evolving global order or the transition, as the Prime Minister has mentioned, while we appreciate the grants and support measures to assist our companies and our workforce, how can Singapore adopt a more proactive stance in navigating this era of uncertainly? How do we find the opportunities in these troubled waters? What role can we play, especially in the global world order, and what unique value propositions can we offer to remain relevant and contribute meaningfully to this global economic transition?”
“In our annual HashTech programme, volunteers from the technology industry mentor youths in dashboarding, data analytics and generative AI, helping them build skills and develop skills portfolios through hackathons. We have established 13 Professional Networks, including engineering, technology, law and healthcare. Can the Minister share the outcomes of these efforts and how we can encourage more professionals and companies to support our youth development?”
“Thank you, Chairman. In Malay, please, (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mr Chairman, in response to a Parliamentary Question in 2023 regarding plans to build new mosques following cost increases due to COVID-19, it was stated that these plans needed to be reassessed due to the pandemic's impact on construction costs. Now, with construction costs stabilising and a growing population in Tampines and Pasir Ris due to new BTO developments, I am pleased to hear that the construction of the mosque in Tampines North will proceed. This is highly anticipated by residents of Tampines, Pasir Ris and Punggol. Can the construction be expedited before 2027? How can we ensure it is easily accessible via public transport, pedestrian paths and cycling routes? Can the Management Boards of the Istighfar Mosque, Ghufran Mosque, and Al-Islah Mosque be involved so their experience can be utilised in the new mosque's design, including implementing sustainable design for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability? Encouraging to Invest in Youths (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Our youths have made significant progress, with more pursuing post-secondary education. As they are the future of our nation, we must continue to invest in and empower them to reach their full potential. Guidance and mentorship are crucial in helping them complete their studies and explore opportunities in growing industries. At M3@Pasir Ris-Punggol, the mentorship programme run by working youth volunteers has successfully guided at-risk youths, helping them pass examinations and continue their education. The Learning Journey programme takes youths to companies across various industries to broaden their mindset towards career opportunities in growing industries.”
“Good health enables individuals to play active roles in their families and community. Can the Minister provide an update on the health outcomes of the Malay/Muslim community and how Focus Area 3, in promoting community health, has contributed to this improvement?”
“Mr Chairman, in Malay, please. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mr Chairman, various M3 initiatives complement national programmes by strengthening last-mile delivery and customising programmes to be closer to beneficiaries. Volunteers play a crucial role by contributing their skills, knowledge and resources to add value to various initiatives. At M3@Pasir Ris-Punggol, the Mari Membaca programme adapts NLB's reading initiative for families with young children, especially in rental blocks. The Jom Sihat programme adapts HPB and MOH programmes to promote healthy lifestyles and health screenings in the community. The Our Learning Journey Visit Programme provides opportunities for youth to understand job roles and industry skills to guide them in career development. The M3 fundraising effort for Gaza, Aid for Gaza, successfully united residents, collecting over $166,000 in just one week. In fact, the Qaryah group at Block 757 Pasir Ris collected $3,000 in just one night. And tonight, M3@Pasir Ris-Punggol volunteers will also be at the Geylang Serai bazaar to encourage more donations by giving out handmade tokens of appreciation. It is evident that M3@Towns can mobilise the community to support various efforts in health, welfare assistance and guidance for children from less privileged backgrounds. To what extent is the Government working with M3@Towns to optimise community assets, workforce and volunteers to maximise the impact of M3 programmes across various areas? Update on Malay/Muslim Community Health (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] The M3 Community Health Focus was introduced in 2023 to encourage the Malay/Muslim community to take ownership of their health and adopt healthy lifestyles.”
“Mr Chairman, I would like to thank Minister Teo and the team for answering the cuts. Three questions from me. Regarding the botnet case shared by Minister, were the owners of the 2,700 affected devices informed? And how do we prevent assets in Singapore from being exploited by these botnet networks? The annex distributed mentions the recommendation to purchase IoT devices with the CSA cybersecurity labelling scheme. Is there an intention for all IoT devices sold in Singapore to undergo assessment for the CSA label? Secondly, for Senior Minister of State Janil, even with the optimised compute that we have discussed earlier, will Singapore's data centre sustainability requirements impact our global competitiveness in AI? And given that added compliance cost and the upcoming carbon tax, could this drive companies to set up data centres elsewhere, making the timeline for studying alternative energy sources even more urgent for us? And lastly, my last question was something that was not answered in the response. For Senior Minister of State Tan, in Budget 2024, it was announced that there would be collaborations with industry to drive AI adoption and innovation. Can the Ministry provide an update on these collaborations with the industry, please?”
“Berita Harian, in particular, has been able to provide many media offerings for the Malay language speaker, not only in Singapore, but in the region. This is important as it provides the Singapore Malays' perspective on current affairs issues in the region. How has this increased the viewership of Berita Harian and how can we further assist our vernacular papers to reach out to the much larger Malay speakers in the region?”
“In Budget 2024, it was announced that there would be collaborations with industry to drive AI adoption and innovation. Can the Ministry provide an update on these collaborations? How can we further encourage companies to develop or establish their AI capabilities in Singapore? Beyond schemes and grants, building the right ecosystem is crucial to attracting and sustaining AI-driven developments. This requires not only skilled talent and cutting-edge infrastructure, such as an ultra-fast broadband network, but also effective matching of technology to business needs, alongside the necessary safeguards to prevent misuse. How are we progressing in our NAIS 2.0 strategy to realise Singapore's vision of AI as a force for good, one that empowers businesses and uplifts our people? At the same time, the very infrastructure and expertise that enables AI innovation can also be exploited for criminal activities. What safeguards are in place to prevent misuse by malicious actors and ensure the integrity of our AI ecosystem? Raising Our Cybersecurity Posture Cybersecurity threats continue to be on the rise, while we have amended our Cybersecurity Act to strengthen the protection of critical information infrastructures and expand the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore's (CSA's) oversight to cover new classes, how do we continue to raise our national cybersecurity posture? Many SMEs lack the budget to build in-house cybersecurity teams or hire talent with deep expertise in cybersecurity. How can we assist SMEs to upgrade their cybersecurity posture? Support for Vernacular Media The support for our vernacular media has enabled the platforms to transform and provide many innovative digital products to engage the community.”
“Chairman, my first cut. While Singapore is building deep capabilities in AI, cybersecurity and other emerging technologies, these skills are not just critical for tech professionals, but also basic end user knowledge is increasingly essential for the general workforce. While we strive to develop a workforce with deep expertise, it is equally important to uplift the broader workforce with foundational digital and AI skills. AI should not remain a niche skillset for a select few. Rather, it should become as commonplace as the use of Microsoft Word or Excel in today's workplace. On developing expert capabilities, how effective has a TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA) been in equipping our local workforce with the deep tech skills needed for AI and cybersecurity roles? Are we on track to meet our target for AI practitioners? Beyond the tech sector, AI has the potential to enhance productivity and enable faster and better decision-making, particularly for SMEs too. However, adoption remains uneven for SMEs. How can we accelerate the development of AI literacy and digital skills across the broader workforce, ensuring that workers, whether in retail, logistics, professional services or any other industry, can harness AI to drive productivity, scale their businesses and stay competitive in the global market? Empower SMEs to AI-enabled Solutions Many SMEs lack the budget to build in-house digital teams to hire AI talent to identify and implement AI opportunities in their businesses. How is the Government supporting SMEs in leveraging AI to boost productivity, enhance decision-making and scale effectively through the adoption of AI enabled solutions? Leaders in Developing AI Singapore aspires to be a global leader in AI adoption, innovation and digital technology solutions.”
“Chairman, while Singapore maintains a low unemployment rate and offers many career opportunities, securing meaningful employment remains a significant challenge for seniors, differently-abled individuals, and those with caregiving responsibilities. Have we moved the needle in expanding job opportunities for these groups of individuals? Is it enough? Take, for example, SG Enables efforts to connect persons with disabilities to jobs while commendable, the employment rate for this group still remains relatively low. Similarly, the Senior Employment Credit incentivises business to hire older workers, but if you were to ask any seniors looking for jobs, they will still share that age bias persist in hiring practices. FWAs, whether flexi-load, flexi-time or flexi-place have been promoted. However, adoption remains inconsistent. How do we go beyond schemes and incentives to truly shift workplace culture towards inclusive hiring practices? Should we consider stronger regulatory measures? What more can be done to ensure that employment inclusivity is not just a policy goal, but a reality for all Singaporeans?”
“Mr Chairman, with increased life expectancy and Singaporeans being healthier, it is even more important to plan for retirement and retirement adequacy. Senior workers may also want to continue working with shorter hours, lighter workloads or flexible schedules. However, the employment of seniors will require a shift in mindset from all stakeholders. Have our policies on senior employment, such as Senior Employment Credit, job redesign and flexible work arrangements made an impact on senior employment? Are we starting to see seniors getting employed in better redesign jobs that leverage on their strength and experience? Has job redesign provided more and enough opportunities for our senior workers? While ensuring that our workforce is prepared for a longer retirement adequacy, workers must also plan for their extended career longevity by taking responsibility for their career and skills upgrading, especially as part of their career health check and retirement planning. How can we help our workers plan for upskilling to enhance their employability and extend their career longevity? Fractional Employment”
“Thank you, Chairman. The call for workforce transformation is not new to Singapore. We have been actively pursuing it with various schemes, encouraging employers to transform their workforce. Every year we call on employers to transform their workforce. However, how successful have we been in this endeavour? Have we moved the needle in workforce transformation to drive new business models, improve our global competitiveness, drive higher productivity and most importantly, drive better wages for our workers? How effective has the Workforce Transformation Map been in guiding companies and how do we measure the success of these support schemes? Despite the numerous schemes supporting workforce transformation and job redesign, the landscape of support measures can be complex. What more can be done to offer a more integrated and holistic approach, while simultaneously streamlining our process? Additionally, many SMEs may lack the personnel and capabilities necessary to lead the transformation of their organisations. How can we provide targeted support to guide these companies through their transformation journey? Singaporean Corporate Leaders Many MNEs have established operations, regional headquarters and even global headquarters in Singapore. To effectively support their regional and global functions, corporate leaders must be adept at managing diverse teams and navigating cultural nuances. How is the Government supporting the development of a strong pipeline of local leaders who can take on key leadership roles in these MNEs from Singapore?”
“Mr Chairman, the Future Energy Fund reinforces our commitment to a low carbon, sustainable and secure energy future. This is more than just a technological investment – it strengthens energy security, economic resilience and environmental responsibility. As Singapore explores sustainable energy solutions, small modular reactors have emerged as a potential long-term option for clean and reliable power. Given rapid advancements in small modular reactor technology globally, how will the fund be deployed to assess its feasibility for Singapore? What steps are being taken to enhance research, regulatory readiness and talent development? How are we working with international partners to accelerate learning and preparedness? How do we move swiftly from exploration to pilot programs and, ultimately, full-scale deployment?”
“Mdm Chair, I would like to declare my interest as a member of Civil Aviation Authority board and also as an employee in the aerospace industry. Mdm Chair, developing Singapore into a leading air hub requires more than just expanding airport capacity. To stay ahead of rapidly improving regional airports, we must boost productivity, enhance connectivity and strengthen our position as a key business and travel destination. Beyond the airport, the broader air hub ecosystem must also grow in tandem. Critical industries, such as aerospace, maintenance, repair and operations (MRO), logistics supply chain and airside services, need a coordinated strategy that aligns infrastructure expansion, workforce readiness, sustainability, supply chain resilience and industry development. Collaboration among key players, Singapore Airlines, Changi Airport Group, Singapore Tourism Board and the hospitality sector, just to name some, must also be deepened to enhance Singapore's Air Hub value proposition. Dubai offers a strong model where its airline, tourism board and airport operator work in synergy to position the city as a premier travel destination. As Changi Airport expands, how can we optimise urban planning and resource allocation in areas, such as Loyang Industrial Estate, Changi Business Park, Pasir Ris, Punggol Digital District and Seletar, to reinforce growth and strengthen our aviation sector? What is the Government's long-term roadmap to integrate these elements and ensure Singapore's Air Hub's competitiveness into the future? Update on Tuas Port Development”
“Chairman, Minister Vivian earlier reiterated that Singapore has consistently supported a negotiated two two state solution for Israel and Palestine. Through the enhanced technical assistance package, nearly 800 Palestinian officials have benefited from our capacity building efforts. Since October 2023, Singaporeans have come together to deliver seven tranches of humanitarian aid to Gaza, totalling over $19 million. Just two days ago, the M³@Towns Aid for Gaza fundraiser, through collaboration with the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation (RLAF), raised $166,000 in just one week, and will continue to do so till 6 April. As part of these fundraising efforts at a local level, M³@Pasir Ris Punggol is actively engaging the community across various activities planned throughout the month. Given the evolving geopolitical landscape, including shifts in the US and the Gulf States responses, what more can Singapore do to support humanitarian relief, reconstruction and diplomatic efforts for stability and peace in Gaza? Capacity Building for Palestine”
“Mdm Chairperson, with the evolving landscape under the current US administration, how is the Government assessing its potential impact on Singapore-US bilateral relations? In particular, how might shifts in US foreign policy, especially its intensifying rivalry with China, along with changes in economic priorities and trade policies, affect key areas of cooperation, such as defence, trade and technology partnerships? As a small but globally connected nation, Singapore must carefully balance its relationships with key partners, including the US, China, Europe, ASEAN and other major economies, amidst global fragmentation. How is the Government ensuring that Singapore strengthens its international ties while upholding a calibrated, independent foreign policy that safeguards our national interests? Singapore's Relations with China”
“Lastly, we must prepare for the future by taking a flexible approach. In planning for the future, we need to continue to listen, understand the people's wishes and make swift adjustments to policies. The people, leaders and businesses must work together to continuously refine and improve policies to shape a stronger and more resilient Singapore. Only through unity and efficient leadership can we continue to progress as a stable and successful nation. Onward Singapore.”
“While SkillsFuture grants support workforce upskilling and Senior Employment Credit incentivises hiring older workers, workforce transformation remains slow in hiring seniors and PwDs. How do we move beyond incentives to truly shift workplace culture? Should stronger regulatory measures be even considered? What more can be done to ensure employment inclusivity is not just a policy goal but a reality for all Singaporeans? Mr Speaker, allow me to give my conclusion and end my speech in Malay. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] This Budget builds upon past policies, providing immediate support for today's challenges, investing in our nation's growth and ensuring Singapore's sustainable future while maintaining fiscal discipline. However, beyond the grants, schemes and vouchers introduced, there are three important points we need to ponder. First, this is the first Budget under the new leadership of Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and the 4G leadership team. The leadership transition has gone smoothly. This achievement is no mean feat, especially when we look at what is happening in other countries including the US. Second, the importance of political stability for Singapore's progress. Many countries experience turbulent leadership transitions, resulting in uncertainty, political instability and squandered investments. Ultimately, it is the people who bear the consequences. Political stability is a cornerstone of Singapore's success. It shapes our economic growth, social policies and diplomatic standing. The ability to plan, think and most importantly, implement for the long term while addressing current challenges, is the secret to our success and we must protect it for the sake of our children's future.”
“Our stallholders, such as Mrs Wee and Eric at Pasir Ris Drive 4 and 6 wet markets have shared that they have seen their business increase during voucher disbursements. Keeping spending local ensures that support reaches Singaporeans while strengthening small businesses and hawkers, a vital part of our community and economy. In my 2022 speech on the White Paper on Singapore Women's Development, I shared the story of Mdm Neo, a Pasir Ris resident caring for her bedridden husband. I called for a further increase in the Home Caregiving Grant to better support caregivers. I am glad that since then, the grant has been raised from $200 to $400, and now to $600, providing much needed relief for caregivers like Mdm Neo. The Budget reaffirms the Government's commitment to building a Singapore made for families, with stronger support for vulnerable families, seniors and persons with disabilities. Measures such as the enhanced Fresh Start Housing Scheme, higher ComCare rates and initiatives to help seniors age well are welcome steps. However, retirement adequacy remains a concern, particularly for seniors with insufficient Central Provident Fund (CPF) savings. While the Lease Buyback Scheme is an option for senior homeowners, should we lower ComCare eligibility requirements for seniors with no assets, especially those whose children are also struggling financially? On persons with disabilities (PwDs), extending the Enabling Employment Credit to 2028 helps offset hiring cost. But are we truly moving the needle on employment opportunities for those with special needs? This ties into workforce transformation efforts.”
“To make real progress, we need to strengthen research efforts to assess viable alternative energy sources, ensure regulatory readiness, preparing Singapore to govern and implement new energy solutions; build a strong talent pipeline, equipping Singaporeans with the expertise needed for this transition; and engage with international partners to accelerate learning and preparedness, ensuring we lead rather than follow. More importantly, we must move with urgency from technology exploration to pilot programmes and ultimately, to full-scale industrial deployment. How do we ensure that Singapore transitions at pace and does not lag behind? I look forward to hearing more about the whole-of-nation approach to developing Singapore as a leading air hub and the details of the Future Energy Fund during the Committee of Supply (COS) debates. Thirdly, as we plan for the future, we must stay engaged, listen actively and remain adaptable to solve today's problems. It is essential to understand the pulse of our people, refine our approaches and continuously improve our policies, ensuring that we build a stronger, better future together. A good example of this is the cost-of-living support through the U-Save, and service and conservancy charges (S&CC) rebates, Climate Vouchers, MediSave and Edusave top-ups and SG60 Vouchers, which provides much needed relief. Some Pasir Ris residents suggested receiving Community Development Council (CDC) Vouchers in cash for greater flexibility, including overseas spending. However, the CDC Voucher system is well-refined, helping Singaporeans while also boosting local businesses, especially our smaller neighbourhood shops.”
“Their growth requires a coordinated strategy, aligning infrastructure expansion, workforce readiness, sustainability strategy and industry development. We must also strengthen collaboration among key ecosystem players such as Singapore Airlines, Changi Airport Group, the Singapore Tourism Board and the hospitality sector to enhance Singapore's value proposition as an air hub. Dubai provides a strong example. Its airline, tourism and airport operator are strategically aligned to position the city as a premier travel destination. Furthermore, as Changi Airport continues to expand, how can we optimise urban planning and resource allocation in our east and north east areas like the Loyang Industrial Estate, Changi Business Park, Pasir Ris, Punggol, in particular, Punggol Digital District and Seletar to reinforce growth and strengthen Singapore's overall aviation sector? What is the Government's long-term roadmap to integrate these elements and ensure Singapore's air hub competitiveness is sustained into the future? This Budget also allocates a $5 billion top-up for the Future Energy Fund, reinforcing our commitment to securing a low-carbon, sustainable and safe energy future. This is not just an investment in technology. It is an investment in energy security, economic resilience and environmental responsibility. The key question is, how will this fund be used to deepen our understanding of alternative energy feasibility for Singapore?”
“It allows us to focus on long-term plans while tackling today's challenges, even amidst geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. It is something that we must protect and strengthen to uphold the values that have guided our progress. Hence, Mr Speaker, I am pleased that this Budget reflects this continuity and consistency. It builds on the past Budgets while adapting to new challenges and reinforces our commitment to a resilient and forward-looking Singapore. In an era where countries are turning inwards, onshoring businesses and shifting away from global collaboration, Singapore must stay ahead. The Budget continues our investments in enhancing our global competitiveness, ensuring Singapore remains a top destination for businesses and investors, upskilling our workforce with the skills of tomorrow, investing in innovation and technology, especially in AI, which was explained in great detail by Deputy Prime Minister Heng, and investment in infrastructure to support long-term growth, in particular, the Changi Airport Development Fund and Future Energy Fund. This Budget sets aside an additional $5 billion for the Changi Airport Development Fund, reinforcing the importance of our ports and airports as strategic national assets. Developing Singapore into a leading air hub requires more than expanding our airport capacity. As regional airports modernise rapidly, we must scale productivity, enhance global connectivity and strengthen Singapore's position as a premier travel and business hub. Beyond the airport, our broader air hub ecosystem must grow in tandem. Industries such as aerospace maintenance, repair and operations (MRO), logistics and airside services are critical in keeping Singapore competitive.”
“Many nations struggle with uncertain transitions, political instability and abrupt policy u-turns, leading to wasted investments, stalled progress and loss of public trust. Take, for example, the US saw political turmoil during the 2020 transition, culminating in the 6 January Capitol riot and repeated policy u-turns across administrations. Some Asian countries experienced drastic shifts in economic and diplomatic policies with each new leader, causing instability. In just three months, one Asian country has seen a president and an acting president impeached. The United Kingdom (UK) continues to face instability with frequent leadership changes, leading to uncertainty in trade, immigration and economic policies, particularly post-Brexit. Even within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), repeated leadership changes have resulted in policy reversals such as the abolition and reintroduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), causing economic uncertainty and deterring long-term investments. In contrast, Mr Speaker, Sir, Singapore has shown that leadership transition can be done right. Our careful, deliberate succession planning ensures continuity in governance, preserving our progress while allowing for a necessary evolution. We express our deepest appreciation to Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong for his decades of steadfast leadership. We also extend our full support for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and the 4G leadership team as they take on the responsibility of steering Singapore into the future. Mr Speaker, Sir, as we celebrate 60 years of independence, it is timely to reflect on the foundation of Singapore's success – our political stability. This stability has been the bedrock of our economic growth, our social policies and diplomatic standing.”
“Thank you, Mr Speaker. Sir, I stand in support of the Budget presented by Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong. The Budget builds upon past Budgets, providing immediate support for today's challenges, investing in our growth and securing Singapore's long-term future while maintaining fiscal prudence. Mr Speaker, in my speech on the Budget, I would like to focus on three key things. Firstly, let us take a moment to reflect on the fact that this is the first Budget by our new Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and the 4G leadership. The fact that it has gone smoothly with no distractions is no easy feat. Secondly, this smooth transition must not be taken for granted. Political stability has been the cornerstone of Singapore's success, shaping our economic growth, social policies and diplomatic standing. It is our "secret sauce" – the ability to plan, think and most importantly, execute for the long term while still tackling the challenges of today. Thirdly, as we plan for the future while tackling today's challenges, we must stay engaged, listen actively and adapt swiftly. Understanding the powers of our people is key, ensuring that we refine our approaches, improve our policies and respond effectively to evolving needs. Mr Speaker, let us take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the smooth, stable and well-planned leadership transition – often a rarity in many parts of the world. With deep respect and gratitude, we recognise the seamless handover of leadership from Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong to Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. The transition reflects the hallmark of Singapore's governance – continuity, foresight and stability. If we look at the world around us, Singapore's political stability and mature leadership transition is an anomaly.”
“However, I would like to suggest that the Workplace Fairness Bill require employers to explain the necessity of certain characteristics, such as language proficiency. For example, if language proficiency is required to deal with customers from the China market, the job advertisement could state that, "The ability to speak Chinese is encouraged in order to deal with customers from the China market." This would help remove any perceived discrimination. Finally, I fully support this bill as it strengthens protections for our workers. While workplace fairness has certainly improved, creating a more just society with equal opportunities requires an ongoing effort. Together, through legislation and individual action, we can build a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all. (In English): Mr Speaker, notwithstanding the clarification sought, I stand firmly in support of this Bill. It represents a pivotal step towards a fairer workplace and a more inclusive society.”
“And I would like to thank Minister Tan for highlighting that, although the number is not as high as before, there are still cases of racial and religious discrimination. In one of my previous jobs in Singapore, I was once told, "You're quite smart... for a Malay," and felt marginalised when colleagues held meetings entirely in Mandarin. Unfortunately, I also had the chance to compare the discrimination faced in other countries when I faced more overt racial discrimination such as being called derogatory names due to the colour of my skin. These experiences reflect how discrimination can manifest both subtly and overtly, and this is a common experience of many from minority groups. The Workplace Fairness Bill to protect against discrimination, including those based on race, language and language, is a significant step forward. However, it is not an absolute solution. Discrimination is a complex issue that requires ongoing efforts. The Workplace Fairness legislation itself is not a panacea, but rather a measured additional protection for our workers. Although the law will play its role will play a part, individuals can also protect themselves from discrimination through personal resilience—by enhancing their skills and achieving excellence in their respective fields to eliminate any doubts about their capabilities. Individuals can strive to be the best candidate for their job, leaving no room for prejudice. The Workplace Fairness Bill is a significant step that complements the Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices (TGFEP) and sets a baseline to address workplace discrimination across 11 Protected Characteristics.”
“How many employees will remain uncovered under this threshold? What percentage of our workforce is not covered under this Bill. While I understand the phased approach, when will WFL apply to smaller organisations? In the meantime, how will we prepare these companies with more robust HR practices? My third clarification is on the process of resolving grievances. How does the legislation safeguard the identity of the complainants and protect them from retaliation? How will the Ministry support firms in developing effective processes to meet WFL requirements? Could this lead to a more litigious culture, particularly around subjective areas, like performance appraisals and promotions? How will frivolous claims be managed? What volume of cases does the Ministry anticipate under this framework and what proportion might escalate to formal adjudication? Success hinges on the organisations' ability to resolve issues internally and TAFEP's capacity to mediate. Are resources adequate to ensure TAFEP's effectiveness? Mr Speaker, with your permission, I would like to speak in Malay, please. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] A survey on Fair Employment Practices Survey by the Ministry of Manpower in 2022 revealed encouraging progress, with discrimination during job searches among residents dropping from 43% in 2018 to 24% in 2022. Workplace discrimination among workers in Singapore was also at 8%, which is significantly lower than the European Union average of 11%. Despite these improvements, discrimination remains real, emphasising the need for continued efforts to address this issue. As a minority, I have also faced discrimination like many minority communities in Singapore.”
“Hence, I understand why the Bill may have avoided explicitly addressing reasonable accommodation – ambiguities in its interpretation could lead to disputes, increasing the risk of a litigious culture where formal adjudication becomes the default mechanism for resolving uncertainties. Indeed, under the Americans with Disabilities Act in the US, which mandates employers to provide reasonable accommodation, numerous cases have ended in formal adjudication due to disagreements over what constitutes "reasonable." However, we cannot simply discard the principle of reasonable accommodation because of its complexities. The critical question is: how can we address genuine cases of reasonable accommodation effectively under WFL and TGFEP? Recommendation 13 of the TGFEP suggests that TAFEP issues advisories and facilitates dialogues between employees and employers. While this is promising, it remains too ambiguous to drive meaningful change. To advance inclusivity, we must strengthen our approach. WFL or TGFEP should mandate, or at least, strongly encourage, organisations to establish clear processes for reasonable accommodation requests. Linking this effort with the work of the taskforce on Inclusive Employment Practices under the Enabling Masterplan 2030 can provide financial support and resources, reducing employer burden and fostering workplace inclusivity. Burden on employers and encourage the hiring of persons with disabilities, making workplace inclusivity a tangible reality. My second clarification links to the application of the Bill. In Part 1, clause 4, para 2, WFL applies to employers with more than 25 employees. According to the 2019 Department of Statistics, 18% of companies in Singapore employ fewer than 25 people.”
“Additionally, some employers still request sensitive personal details during the application process. Clearer guidelines must discourage such practices to ensure equal opportunities for all candidates, and by addressing these systemic issues alongside the legislative framework, we can move closer to workplace culture rooted in fairness and inclusivity. Mr Speaker, Part 5 of the Bill addresses genuine job requirements for protected characteristics. Can TGFEP recommend that employers provide upfront clarity on why a characteristic is necessary, such as specifying that language proficiency, is required for customer interaction in specific markets? For example, if the Chinese language ability is required, the advert could read "Chinese-speaking preferred as employee is required to address customers from the Chinese market". Having such details would definitely help remove the perceived discrimination. Mr Speaker, while the 11 protected characteristics are well defined in the Workplace Fairness Bill, the issue of reasonable accommodation has not been fully addressed. Reasonable accommodation refers to modification or adjustments to enable employees with disabilities to perform essential job functions and enjoy equal employment benefits. For instance, adapting a workspace for an employee with a physical disability is relatively straight-forward. However, cases like accommodating someone with anxiety disorder requesting a completely quiet workplace, with less people in an office and set away from others can pose significant practical and financial challenges.”
“Mr Speaker, I rise in support of this Bill, as it fortifies our system to uphold workplace fairness, protecting workers while balancing the interests of employers. However, I seek clarification on three areas: firstly, the definition of character of protected characteristics; secondly, the application of the Bill; and thirdly, the grievance resolution process and its effectiveness. Mr Speaker, part three of the Workplace Fairness Bill identifies 11 protected characteristics, covering 95% of workplace discrimination complaints received by MOM and TAFEP. Could the Ministry clarify what other characteristics constitute the remaining 5% of complaints? While the inclusion of these protected characteristics is a great step forward, the legislation remains punitive in nature. Legislation is an important step, but how do we shift from punishing discrimination to actively fostering the employment of seniors, PwDs and caregivers? How can the Workplace Fairness Legislation work in tandem with the tripartite guidelines on fair employment practices, to tackle workplace discrimination holistically? For many seniors seeking employment, discrimination remains painfully real. Some are denied even an interview once their age is revealed. This reflects entrenched biasness that legislation alone cannot address. Beyond punitive measures, how will we challenge and change such ingrained attitudes to create an inclusive mindset among employers? Education also plays an important role. Jobseekers must understand their rights and avoid providing sensitive information like age, race, religion or marital status on their CVs, a practice once very common. Schools, career services and organisations like e2i and Workforce Singapore should embed this knowledge in career preparation efforts.”
“Mr Speaker, it is heartening that MOM's 2022 Fair Employment Practices Survey shows progress. Workplace discrimination in Singapore has significantly decreased, with only 24% of job applicants reporting discrimination, compared to 43% in 2018. Moreover, just 8% of resident employees reported workplace discrimination, lower than the EU average of 11%. While these figures highlight improvement, discrimination remains a concern for many Singaporeans. Beyond these statistics are deeply personal stories of exclusion and unfair treatment, underscoring the importance of continued action, and I thank Minister Tan for acknowledging that. For instance, I recall moments from my career, both in Singapore and abroad, where I faced discrimination as a minority. As a young engineer in Singapore, I was once told, "You are quite smart, for a Malay". I also felt excluded when colleagues held meetings entirely in Mandarin. Overseas, when I was mistaken for a Latino American, I encountered overt racial prejudice. These experiences, shared by many, reminds us that discrimination persist in both overt and subtle forms. Tackling these issues requires sustained efforts to create a fairer, more inclusive society, where opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of race, religion or other attributes. The Workplace Fairness Bill is a critical milestone in this journey. It complements the tripartite guidelines of on fair employment practices, addressing discrimination across 11 protected characteristics and establishing a strong foundation for fair treatment. Together, these measures reflect Singapore's commitment to fostering workplaces where everyone can thrive.”
“Sometimes, they impersonate government officials, starting with fake messages, such as fines or overdue payments, which ultimately lead to much greater losses. For example, a Pasir Ris-Punggol resident lost $3,000 despite reporting the fraudulent transaction to the bank, which still allowed the transfer to be made. Another fell victim to a love scam, losing over $50,000 despite her family's attempts to stop her. These cases demonstrate the manipulative nature of scams that exploits victims' emotions and trust. I support the Bill that empowers the Police to issue Restriction Orders (ROs) to stop such transactions. However, safeguards are needed to prevent misuse and ensure accountability. Banks must act swiftly when notified of scams and be held responsible if they fail to comply with the order. Additionally, independent arbitrators should oversee banks' investigations into scams cases to ensure justice for victims. Finally, victims under an RO should be given access to daily funds while investigations are ongoing. This balance is important to effectively combat scams and deliver justice for scam victims. (In English): Mr Speaker, scams not only rob individuals of their hard-earned money but also erode trust and confidence in our financial institutions. This Bill is a crucial step in addressing these challenges, but it must be implemented with precision, transparency and fairness. Safeguarding victims while balancing the powers of authority and personal autonomy is no easy task. However, by refining processes, ensuring accountability and minimising undue inconvenience to individuals, we can make meaningful strides in combating this growing threat. Notwithstanding the clarifications above, I stand firmly in support of this Bill.”
“Yet, the bank allowed the transfer to proceed, citing that it was self-effected as she had already set up the e-wallet with the scammer's bank details. This raises serious concerns about the level of accountability expected from financial institutions in safeguarding their customers, particularly in situations where fraud had already been flagged. Moving to my third point, individuals subjected to an RO may face limitations on their ability to transfer or withdraw money as well as restrictions on their credit facilities. While it is mentioned that mechanisms will be in place to allow access to funds for legitimate purposes, such as daily living expenses and bill payments, this access will be determined on a case-by-case basis upon application to the Police. Given that applications can take time and investigations into scam cases may span several months, I propose that the default position should be to ensure individuals affected by an RO have immediate access to sufficient funds to sustain their daily living. This would provide a safety net while investigations are ongoing. It would be deeply unfair and disproportionate to cut off an individual from their own financial resources without prior notice or a mechanism for immediate relief. Mr Speaker, in Malay, please. (In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mr Speaker, the alarming increase in scam cases and staggering financial losses are worrying. In 2023, Singapore lost $650 million to scams, and in the first half of 2024, 86% of cases involved transfers made by the victims themselves. Such scams are not confined to specific groups but are increasingly targeting individuals who are educated and digitally literate. The modus operandi in scam cases is becoming more sophisticated.”
“Furthermore, clause 6 of the Bill stipulates that banks which contravene an RO shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $3,000. Just $3,000. However, considering the significant sums often lost in scams, a penalty of $3,000 appears disproportionately small when weighted against the devastating financial impact on the victims. In addition to imposing a heftier fine, I urge that banks be held liable to the victims for any losses incurred as a direct result of their failure to comply with the RO. Such accountability would ensure that banks take their obligations under this Bill seriously and act decisively to protect victims from further harm. In addition, there is also something that we need to address on how scam cases are investigated by the banks. Scam investigations by banks require closer scrutiny. Currently, when a victim reports a fraudulent transaction, the bank handles the investigation internally and issues their findings, leaving victims with limited recourse. To better protect victims, we should consider appointing an independent arbitrator to review such cases, ensuring a fair and transparent process for redress. Moving to my second point regarding the scope of the RO, I seek clarification on whether banks can also be mandated to halt transactions if victims explicitly acknowledge that the transactions are fraudulent. In such cases, should banks not also bear the responsibility to recover the lost funds if they proceed with the transfer despite the victim's warning? In the first case I highlighted earlier, the victim had shared that, apparently, they had already informed the bank that the transactions were fraudulent.”
“We must strike a delicate balance between holding individuals accountable for their financial actions and ensuring that authorities do not overreach in matters of personal autonomy. While I support the intent and direction of the Bill, I have several clarifications and concerns that I hope the Minister of State will address: firstly, on the issuance of the Restriction Order; secondly, on the scope of the RO; and thirdly, on minimising the inconvenience to individuals affected. Mr Speaker, in Part 2, clause 3 of the Bill specifies that an RO is an order issued by a Specified Officer to one or more banks in relation to a scam victim. I seek clarification from the Minister regarding the definition of this Specified Officer. Will this Officer be the one reporting the case, the investigating officer or someone from a specialised branch of the Police Force focused on scams? This provision grants significant authority to the Police over an individual's financial assets. How do we ensure that such powers are not subject to abuse and that there is accountability in their exercise of power? At the same time, to make this measure truly effective, how do we ensure an efficient process that prevents victims from transferring further funds to scammers? In the love scam case I cited earlier, the victim was rushing to transfer money and without immediate intervention, the transfer would have already been completed. As an additional safeguard, since such cases often involve family members who act as the primary complainants to the Police in their efforts to stop further transfers, should the issuance of an RO be contingent on a valid complaint lodged by a credible party, such as a family member?”
“Shortly after, she received an alert from her bank about several overseas transactions. She immediately informed the bank that she had not authorised these transactions and was a victim of a scam. Yet, to her dismay, the bank allowed the transactions to proceed, citing the fact that she had already initiated the first transfer as part of an e-wallet. As a result, she lost close to $3,000. Allow me to share another distressing case involving a Pasir Ris-Punggol resident who fell victim to a love scam. This case came to my attention when her family, in sheer desperation, sought my assistance. The victim, a 60-year-old woman, had already transferred more than $50,000 to an overseas acquaintance. Shockingly, this sum included loans that she had taken from her own family members. Despite her family's repeated efforts to intervene and persuade her to stop, she remained resolute in her actions, believing in the legitimacy of her relationship. Her family approached me to talk to her, hoping I could help her see the gravity of the situation. This case underscores the deeply manipulative nature of scams, which prey not only on victims' financial resources, but also on their emotions and trust. Hence, Mr Speaker, I stand in support of this Bill, which seeks to empower the Police to issue ROs to banks, enabling them to limit banking transactions for individuals when there is reasonable belief that these funds may be transferred to scammers. This is undeniably a significant step, granting the Police substantial authority over an individual's access to their own financial resources. Such powers are, by nature, intrusive and it is imperative that we approach this matter with utmost caution.”
“Mr Speaker, the alarming rise in the number of scams is deeply concerning. Even more shocking, is the staggering amount of money lost to such scams. In 2023 alone, in Singapore, an astonishing $650 million is lost to scams. Alarmingly, in just the first half of 2024, 86% of reported scams were the result of self-effected transfers. What is particularly troubling is the significant amounts lost in individual cases. During the same period, government officer impersonation scams (GOIS) and investment scams stood out as the most financially devastating. On average, victims of GOIS lost more than $100,000 per case while investment scams saw average losses of over $40,000 per case. This issue is not confined to any one demographic. In my conversations with residents of Pasir Ris-Punggol, I have met scam victims of GOIS, love scams and investment scams. Contrary to popular belief, the victims are no longer just the elderly or the digitally inexperienced. Increasingly, they include younger professionals – educated and digitally literate individuals – something which was mentioned by Assoc Prof Razwana earlier. While the statistic that 86% of scams involved self-effected transfers may suggest a level of voluntary action, the reality, Mr Speaker, is far more insidious. A common modus operandi involves seemingly innocuous messages, such as a notice from the Land Transport Authority claiming an underpayment of 10 cents for parking or a fine. The message contains a link to settle the fine and while the initial transfer appears minor, it serves as a gateway for scammers to drain much larger sums from victims' accounts. Let me illustrate this with a specific case shared by a resident. She received such a message, prompting her to make a small initial payment.”
“Thank you, Speaker, and thank you to the Senior Minister of State for the reply, and I agree with the benefits of telemedicine. I have two supplementary questions. The Senior Minister of State has shared that eight telemedicine providers are under investigation. How many clinics offer these services? This is just to get a feel of what is the percentage of the providers that are under investigation. Second, some of my residents in Pasir Ris have brought up that the contacts of telemedicine clinics have been shared as a means to get easy medical certificates. In fact, a concerned parent shared that some students are using this as a means to avoid taking tests. So, how do we monitor that this modern convenience of telemedicine services is not abused? And how do we then proactively monitor it? What are the avenues for us to report such cases?”
“I thank the Senior Minister of State for the reply. While I appreciate the Senior Minister of State's reply on the multi-agency approach for the Safety Time-out, my question is more on the effectiveness, or at least, increasing the effectiveness of the Safety Time-out. In the MOM website, during a Safety Time-out, companies are strongly urged to review their risk assessment and debrief their workforce. Can I suggest that during the Safety Time-out, companies are required to review their risk assessment, their safety management system and required to acknowledge that they have done so, especially at the leadership level, whether it is from the directors, and within the companies, flow it down, with their workers acknowledging that they have been debriefed and they are sure of the safe practices that are required?”
“Additionally, what are the asset retention requirements? The Bill also grants the Minister authority to define the list of qualifying business activities. What are the criteria for determining these qualifying activities and how often will this list be reviewed? Mr Speaker, notwithstanding these clarifications, I stand in support of the Bill.”
“Second, clause 4 amends sections 41 and 43 on investment allowances, broadening the definition of fixed capital expenditure to support companies developing and expanding capabilities in Singapore. When building new capabilities, the required infrastructure has become increasingly specialised, especially when requirements for particulate control, flatness of building and temperature and humidity regulation are required in the project. The rising building costs in Singapore, which has increased by over 30% in some cases post-COVID-19, has exacerbated these challenges. Therefore, the inclusion of capital expenditure on structures specially designed for carrying out the project as a qualifying expense is much appreciated. Expanding the definition of fixed capital expenditure to include the acquisition of know-how or patent rights, can also attract projects where commercialisation or industrialisation builds on acquired intellectual properties (IPs). For example, this will attract companies developing industrialised solutions for additive manufacturing of exotic metals, like titanium, for the medical and aerospace industries or creating quantum computing solutions based on acquired IPs. Including productive equipment to be used outside of Singapore within the investment framework also reflects the realities of today's supply chains, where value streams often span multiple jurisdictions. This provision allows labour-intensive work in partner countries, while Singapore focuses on higher-value tasks, benefiting our workforce through upskilling and creating high-value jobs. That said, I have several points of clarification. What criteria will overseas investments need to meet to qualify as allowable fixed capital expenditure?”
“Mr Speaker, I wish to declare my interest as, in my professional capacity, I am involved in developing and expanding aerospace and aircraft maintenance, repair and overall capabilities in Singapore. Singapore's attractiveness for FDIs is underpinned by our robust legal framework, skilled workforce, political stability, excellent transportation system and world-class infrastructure, just to name a few. Our tax incentive frameworks, including the Pioneer Incentive and DEI, give us a competitive edge to attract companies looking to build capabilities globally. Last month, in this Chamber, during the debate on the Income Tax Bill and Multinational Enterprise (Minimum Tax) Bill, we extensively discussed the increasing global competition to attract investments, the minimum effective tax rates, the importance of continued investments in Singapore and ensuring that MNEs comply with BEPS 2.0 requirements. This Economic Expansion Incentive Bill further strengthens our investment toolkit by introducing significant enhancements to Singapore's tax incentive framework, something which has also been mentioned by Member Mr Saktiandi Supaat. Key enhancements include an additional layer of concessionary tax rates aligned with global tax standards introduced by BEPS 2.0; extended tax relief; a revised definition of fixed asset investment; and an expanded scope of qualifying activities under DEI. First, in clauses 2 and 3, the amendments to section 21 add an additional layer of concessionary tax rates, which is a welcome enhancement. Depending on the structure, companies may not find the current two tax tiers of 5% or 10% useful. Thus, some companies affected by the minimum ETR may still find the 15% rate valuable in developing their capabilities in Singapore.”
“I thank the Minister for his response. The Orang Laut are the seafaring indigenous people in Singapore and the Nusantara region that has thrived in Singapore even before 1819. There are many groups of Orang Laut, such as the Orang Laut Seletar, Orang Laut Selat, comprising of the seafarers from the southern islands, and Orang Laut Kalang, of which I am a descendant of. The Orang Laut has cultures and traditions that are closely aligned to the sea. And there are advocate groups like Orang Laut SG, with founder Firdaus Sani, who is trying to keep the culture of the Orang Laut alive through workshops such as Turning Tides and Down Down di Pulau, which means "leaves of the sea", to create awareness of the cultures such as bubu trap weaving, launching of the boats, which Minister has shared just now, the food, and searching for gong gong, siput ranga and remis. Can the Ministry consider having heritage trails that integrate into the development plans of the Southern Waterfront region or West Coast Park, or have markers or permanent spaces where the public can appreciate the rich culture of our indigenous Orang Laut?”