Teo Chee Hean
Singapore
“The second point first, Mr Speaker. Certainly, it could have been a factor. But to the Panel which reviewed the thing, it was not an acceptable excuse or reason. The agencies still have to be responsible for what they are doing, whatever season of the year it is.”
“On the balance in ACRA, I would not say it is a conflict, but you have to strike the right balance between the functions that ACRA is meant to provide, which is to have a registry which promotes corporate transparency, and you have to balance that against how you protect personal data.”
“That means, if you do find a bug or you do find a way in which you can penetrate a Government system, you let us know, and there is a bounty for it. And this is evergreen. But we also do, from time to time, have a hunting season. So, for certain of our systems, we invite white hatters to attack those systems.”
“Then, he asked when the political office holders got involved in the public communications on the Bizfile portal issue. They got involved, I think, almost as soon as it became apparent that there was public anxiety. Next question about paragraph 40 and the email to senior officers, yes, the July 2024 CM was emailed to officers.”
“In fact, we monitor the dark web for a variety of things, including this, and we have not seen any sale of NRIC numbers as such. On the question of collection and use of NRIC numbers, actually, in the communication with the Government agencies, I think it is important to know who you are communicating with.”
“So, you actually make your email address available to others. But for authentication purposes, it is quite different. You do not tell your password to others. That is something which you keep for yourself and your email service provider knows. So, there is a difference between an identifier and an authentication.”
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“Mr Speaker, Sir, I think I have tried to answer that question which Asst Prof Eugene Tan has brought up in a different way. It is not very different from the question that Mr Lien has brought up. On an individual basis, individuals in Singapore are free to exercise their political rights as individuals. But when you bring an organisation, like a religious organisation, into politics or when political parties or people with a political agenda start to use religion to further that agenda, then you begin to have a serious problem. Page: 805 If one religion enters into the political arena in that way, or allows itself to be used in the political arena in that way, then other religions may do so as well, and then we have the possibility of a breakdown in social harmony along religious lines. That is very dangerous for society. But as I have said, religious groups do play very important and useful social functions through their social arms. Many of them have charity arms. Many of them run education institutions, welfare homes, old-age homes, and these certainly are very welcomed. These are expressions of their own beliefs and precepts, and we welcome those. But those need to be kept separate from a political agenda of getting the religious organisation as an organisation involved in a political agenda. And I think Asst Prof Tan can see the difference between the two. Page: 805”
“They have served together on the Presidential Council for Religious Harmony for 10 years and have been friends, I am told, for some 50 years. Mr Goh also is a Catholic himself and he knew that it was not in character for Archbishop Chia to do anything that would entangle the Church in politics. Sir, although I may not know Archbishop Chia as well as Mr Goh, I have had interactions with him on several occasions. Through my conversations with the Archbishop, we have established mutual understanding and share the desire to respect the religious beliefs of the various communities in Singapore while upholding the wider interests of all Singaporeans and of Singapore.”
“I was greatly reassured by the Archbishop's comments, as they were consistent with his record of service throughout his 11-year tenure as leader of the Catholic Church in Singapore. He has consistently shown that he values religious harmony and appreciates the importance of separating religion and politics in our local context. He has also worked hard to forge inter-religious understanding and harmony, reflecting his strong belief in this fundamental basis of our social harmony. It also became clear from the discussion that, firstly, the Archbishop had intended the letter as a private communication to the F8 organisers. And, secondly, on reflection, the Archbishop felt that the letter did not accurately reflect his views on the subject and, if used in a manner he did not intend, might inadvertently harm our social harmony. Archbishop Chia then decided on the same day to send a second letter to the F8 organisers to withdraw his earlier letter. The F8 organisers acknowledged the Archbishop's request and, according to the Archbishop, returned him his original letter. Page: 804 Sir, those who know Archbishop Chia well and the type of person he is, and his contributions to Singapore over the decades, will certainly know that he is not one who would endanger social harmony in Singapore. The position he took in withdrawing the letter was consistent with his words and deeds throughout his leadership of the Catholic Church and as a respected religious leader in Singapore. Mr Goh Joon Seng, who was at the meeting, in his capacity as Chairman of the Presidential Council for Religious Harmony, is a retired Supreme Court judge who knows the Archbishop professionally and personally.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I will be happy to do so. As I have explained earlier in my reply to Mr Lien, Government leaders meet religious leaders regularly to build mutual understanding and trust. I have met Archbishop Nicholas Chia from time to time over the years and several times since I was appointed as the Minister for Home Affairs last May. Last year, I hosted him and a small group of Catholic leaders for lunch so that I could understand better the issues that concern the Catholic community in Singapore. I also visited the Archbishop in hospital when he unfortunately fractured his leg last August. There was no publicity or fanfare for these meetings. The Archbishop knows that any time he needs to discuss any sensitive issue with me, he can see me in private. Likewise, I would have no hesitation to share my concerns honestly and openly with him if I felt the need to do so. Sir, it was in this spirit that I asked to meet Archbishop Nicholas Chia on 30 May 2012, together with the Chairman of the Presidential Council for Religious Harmony, Mr Goh Joon Seng. I wanted to understand better the context to the Archbishop's letter to the organisers of an organisation which calls itself F8, which was going to stage a political event scheduled for 2 June at the Speakers' Corner. I was anxious to avoid any misunderstanding between the Government and the Catholic Church. When we met, I explained my concerns to Archbishop Chia. The Archbishop stated very clearly that the Catholic Church has always maintained a position that it does not wish to be involved in political activities, and that the Church wants to work closely with the Government and does not wish to set itself on a collision path with the Government.”
“Sir, the position is very clear between that of an individual practising his religion and carrying through the practice of his religion and his beliefs into his own personal decisions. And that is quite different from getting religious groups involved in politics. I think those are two quite different things and that, in fact, as Mr Lien has suggested, is a nuanced position, and not very different from Mr Lien's. I think we need to keep that separation; otherwise, once religious organisations get involved in politics, we then run the danger of having a clash. With many religious groups entering into the political arena, or political groups seeking to use religious groups to further their political agenda, we then begin to have a problem.”
“So, Sir, we certainly do appreciate the contributions that religions and religious groups make to Singapore. In fact, we encourage that, but we also know that we should keep religion and politics separate so that we maintain religious harmony and social harmony in Singapore. Page: 803”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, first of all, I appreciate Mr Lien's clear articulation that he feels that politics and religion should be kept separate. If I understood him correctly, that was his opening position. I appreciate that very much because that is the position which the Government takes as well. We do appreciate the good work that religion does in our society. Mr Lien has said that he is a Catholic. I myself am not Catholic, but my whole family has been educated in Catholic schools, and we appreciate that very much. And the reason is a very simple one – Catholic schools provide good education with good values and they have been able to keep their practice of religion and their mission to provide education quite separate. I have never had an occasion, for example, in Catholic schools where they had tried to convert me, and I appreciate that very much. They teach me what their precepts are, but they have never tried to convert me. As with all mission schools in Singapore, there is a clear separation between the education mission which is what the Ministry of Education supports and funds, and their religious practices, including what they can or cannot do in schools with the students. They cannot proselytise to the students. They cannot try to convert them, but they can continue to provide good values education for their students. In schools, we recognise that there are many religious organisations, whether they are Buddhist, Christian or others, and they provide a very useful social function. There is also a divide – a clear line – between the education mission, which is for all, and the religious beliefs, precepts and practice which have to be kept on a separate track.”
“Government and religious leaders also regularly meet privately, individually or in groups. Both Government and religious leaders know that when sensitive issues arise that they wish to discuss in confidence, they can do so candidly behind closed doors. This approach has worked well. These interactions help to build mutual understanding and trust, and have enabled our religious leaders to become valued and vital partners of the Government in maintaining religious harmony in Singapore.”
“If politicians use the religion card for their own political purpose and agenda, and seek to sway voters through religious appeals, it will sow the seeds of division in our society and undermine the inter-religious and social harmony we have painstakingly built. To guard against the dangers of mixing politics and religion, Parliament enacted the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act in 1990. The Act created the Presidential Council for Religious Harmony to help the Government decide on matters pertaining to religious harmony. The current Council is chaired by a retired Supreme Court judge. It comprises members who represent the major religions in Singapore and other members who have distinguished themselves in public service or community relations. Religious representatives form the majority of this Council. Should any individual or group seek to embroil any religious group or use a religious office to further its political agenda, Government will take firm action to protect our religious and social harmony. Mr Speaker, Sir, religious groups are an important part of our society. They make important contributions to social harmony and nation-building. The Government appreciates the positive role of religious groups in our secular state, and their understanding and acceptance of the need to keep religion and politics separate. At the same time, Government understands and respects that religious groups have deeply-held views which they wish to express and to be given due consideration. There are established formal and informal channels for religious groups to do so. Government and religious leaders meet regularly on public occasions, such as community functions, religious events and activities under our Community Engagement Programme.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the separation of religion and politics is a long-established principle in Singapore. Every citizen, regardless of his religious beliefs, has the same rights to express his views on public issues. In doing so, a citizen who belongs to a particular religion will often be guided by his own religious beliefs and personal conscience. However, like other citizens, he should always be mindful of the sensitivities of living in a multi-religious society and the bounds of the law. Singapore is a multi-religious society. The different religious groups have their own deeply-held beliefs and precepts. While we accept and respect this diversity of religious teachings, we have seen many examples of other countries where religious differences have caused deep social divides and conflict. If one religion pushes hard to have its tenets and views adopted by society at large beyond its own adherents, others will push back, sometimes even harder. Page: 801 This dynamic is accentuated if a religious group engages in politics, or if a political group uses religion to further its cause. Other religious groups will feel compelled to also enter the political arena to further their own causes or rival claims. Tensions will arise and social harmony can break down. Hence, we need to maintain a clear line between politics and religion in Singapore. Our politics and policies must serve all Singaporeans, regardless of race, language or religion. The Government must not take sides with any religious group when making policies.”
“Unarmed private security officers (SOs) provide a wide range of services, including premise security, access control and security screening. To enhance the professionalism of SOs, the Police Licensing and Regulatory Department (PLRD) will be identifying the key specialist functions where additional training and certification are necessary. SOs can then be trained accordingly to take on these functions. This should translate to higher wages as better trained officers add more value to their jobs and will be differentiated from others. For a start, PLRD has imposed such training requirements for SOs performing security screening. SOs must receive specific Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) training before they are allowed to perform screening functions involving the use of X-ray or metal detectors. PLRD is currently looking into imposing training requirements for other security functions. Page: 786”
“Reporting wrong-doing is an integral part of our system for maintaining integrity in the Public Service, along with regulations governing behaviour, as well as legal and disciplinary procedures for taking wrong-doers to task and punishing them appropriately. These measures guide our officers on proper conduct, deter officers from misconduct and reduce the opportunity for corruption and wrong-doing. However, even in the best of systems, no one can guarantee that corruption or wrong-doing can be entirely eradicated and that there will never be cases of misconduct, as there will always be human failings, which we may discover later. Page: 783 The recent cases demonstrate that there are strict rules, reporting procedures, and legal and disciplinary processes in place to maintain the integrity of the Public Service and the proper conduct of public officers. Most important of all is a culture both in the Public Service as well as among our Singaporean public that does not tolerate corruption, misappropriation or misuse of public resources. The cases in the Public Service that are under investigation or before the courts illustrate such a process at work, and are an affirmation that this Government is determined to maintain the integrity of the Public Service, and will act against wrongdoing wherever and whenever it is discovered. Page: 783”
“Public officers should be vigilant and are expected to report wrong-doing if they have sufficient grounds to believe a wrong-doing has been committed in their workplace or by any public officer. There are multiple avenues for officers to report wrong-doings and irregularities. Apart from making such reports internally within their own departments or agencies, officers can escalate cases of misconduct to their Permanent Secretary or the Head of Civil Service. In addition, they can also report wrong-doing to the Public Service Commission (PSC). Corruption cases can also be reported to the CPIB. If an officer has sufficient grounds to feel that he is being treated unfairly as a result of a report that he has made, he may submit a complaint to his Permanent Secretary. Therefore, there are already provisions for the protection of officers who make such reports. Reporting by members of the public and public officers will be treated with utmost confidentiality and every effort will be made not to reveal the identity of the person reporting, to the extent feasible and permissible under law. They should, however, be mindful not to abuse the channels. Members of the public have, in fact, been forthcoming in reporting alleged fraud or wrong-doing, which have led to investigations by the Government. Where investigations have revealed wrong-doing, officers have been subject to court proceedings or public service disciplinary proceedings. To sum up, there are multiple channels for raising irregularities. Independent bodies like the Public Service Commission (PSC), Auditor-General’s Office (AGO) and CPIB are also involved in the process.”
“A number of Members had asked similar questions earlier this year on 14 February 2012, and the matter also came up during the Committee of Supply on 23 February 2012. I had described in some detail, on both occasions, the channels available for both public officers as well as members of the public to report any wrong-doing by public officers that they may come across. Such formal, institutionalised reporting procedures already exist. Channels for a member of the public to report improper behaviour/wrong-doing by a public officer. Allow me to recap what I said in Parliament in February this year about the channels available for reporting wrongdoing in the Public Service. A member of the public can report wrong-doing by a public officer to the Head of the Department or agency. He can also report the matter to the Permanent Secretary overseeing the Ministry or, indeed, to the Minister. Alternatively, he can make a report to the Head of Civil Service or the Public Service Commission, which is an independent body set up under the Singapore Constitution to take charge of disciplinary issues in the Civil Service. Page: 782 This arrangement is applicable to employees of companies bidding for Government tenders, who may wish to alert the Government to possible tender manipulation or unfair tendering practices. Corruption cases should be reported to the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB). Many Singaporeans also write to the media, or express their views through the social media and new media. There is thus no shortage of official or unofficial channels for members of the public to lodge their complaints.”
“The number of property crime cases reported has shown a decreasing trend over the past three years, with 19,463 property crime cases reported in 2011 compared to 21,023 cases in 2010 and 22,221 cases in 2009. For the first half of 2012, the number of property crime cases reported was 9,951. This was a 1.6% increase when compared to the 9,790 cases reported in the same period in 2011. Theft in dwelling cases increased from 2,010 reported cases for the first half of 2011 to 2,171 reported cases for the first half of 2012. Housebreaking and related crimes decreased from 381 to 297 reported cases in these two six-month periods. Police will continue to monitor the crime situation closely. Police signboards displayed in public areas are an effective means of raising awareness about crime concerns within the area and reminding the public to remain vigilant. Such signboards may be put up in areas where multiple cases of a certain crime, such as housebreaking, are reported. Police may also use such signboards to seek the public's assistance in providing information or in identifying a perpetrator. The public should not be alarmed by such signboards. If they have any crime related information, or specific concerns, they should call the nearest Neighbourhood Police Centre as stated on the signboard.”
“The total number of armed private security officers, known as Auxiliary Police Officers (APOs), and unarmed private security officers (SOs) licensed by the Police as of July 2012 is 6,408 and 65,679 respectively. In March this year, the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Home Affairs conducted a survey of public sector security contracts. Responses from contractors were sought on a voluntary, in-confidence basis via the respective Government agencies. Based on the returns, Government agencies engaged a total of about 1,200 SOs and 1,800 APOs. The estimated value of these security contracts was about $175 million.”
“They can do so every day and not just on the designated "Blue Sky Day", as long as doing so does not affect the service’s operational readiness and level of service to the public.”
“Public officers are required to work 42 hours a week. According to MOM's survey, companies in various industries likewise require their officers to work an average of 43 work hours per week7. Most of our Public Service agencies8 have moved away from the practice of tracking officers' actual work hours through a clock in/out system, except for some instances where it is required to support operations and to administer overtime payments for lower divisional staff. The shift away from clocking in and out is in line with a more progressive HR approach which focuses on work outcomes, and to facilitate a flexible work culture built on mutual trust, responsibility and staff empowerment. In deciding whether to move towards a 40-hour work week, there is a need to study the impact of such a move on service levels to the public. In the light of increasing public demands for better and more responsive public services, such a move should be considered only if we are confident of reaping additional productivity improvements from our workforce, such that they can perform the same task or provide the same level of service in a shorter time. Such a move requires careful study. The practice of "Blue Sky Day" is progressively gaining traction. To date, 35 Public Service agencies have introduced "Blue Sky Day", most of these on a weekly basis. Operational and enforcement agencies are less able to practise "Blue Sky Days" due to operational needs and exigencies of service. However, they have other means to help officers achieve work-life balance. The Public Service will continue to encourage more public agencies to adopt the practice of "Blue Sky Day", where applicable. In fact, public officers are encouraged to leave on time once their work for the day has been completed.”
“Any victim of domestic violence in Singapore, including women facing violence from unmarried live-in partners, can seek assistance from this system by approaching the Police or a Family Service Centre, or by calling the ComCare Helpline. While a range of legal and non-legal interventions already exist to help victims of domestic violence, the Government will monitor the situation to determine if additional measures are necessary.”
“The Member has asked for a very specific statistic – the number of reports of domestic violence perpetrated against women by their unmarried live-in partners. As the Police does not track such cases as a distinct category, I am unable to provide the statistics requested. The Government does not condone acts of domestic violence, regardless of the marital circumstances. The Penal Code criminalises acts of violence, ranging from criminal intimidation and voluntarily causing hurt, to rape. This applies equally to perpetrators of domestic violence who might commit such acts against their unmarried live-in partners. Protection Orders (POs) were created under the Women’s Charter to send a strong signal that domestic violence within the context of the family would not be tolerated, while creating opportunities for families, victims and perpetrators to heal these relationships. The Government has adopted this approach in recognition that family ties are life-long and rehabilitation plays a crucial role in preserving these relationships. Hence, although Domestic Exclusion Orders are a possible condition within the POs, the PO may also require other measures, such as counselling for all parties involved. In addition to legal recourse available to all victims of domestic violence, non-legal interventions are of equal, if not greater, importance in meeting the needs of victims of domestic violence. The National Family Violence Networking System, jointly administered by MCYS and SPF, coordinates interventions for both the victims and the perpetrators of family violence, regardless of marital status, in a holistic manner. A wide range of services is available through this system, including counselling, medical services and temporary crisis shelters.”
“As at 31 July 2012, there were 9,154 foreign spouses of Singaporeans who are Long-Term Visit Pass holders. The Long-Term Visit Pass Plus (LTVP+) was implemented on 1st April this year. As at 31 July 2012, ICA has issued the LTVP+ to 2,334 foreign spouses of Singaporeans.”
“Since the tightening of our immigration framework in late 2009, the number of new permanent residents (PRs) has decreased from an average of 58,000 per year from 2004 to 2008, to 28,500 per year from 2010 onwards. The number of new Singapore citizens (SCs) has remained relatively stable at an average of 18,500 per year in the last five years. Fewer SCs were granted last year because of the introduction of the Singapore Citizenship Journey, which has lengthened the time taken for applicants to be granted citizenship by about two months. The number of PRs and SCs granted in any given year depends on a combination of factors, including the number of applications received as well as the calibre and profile of applicants, such as their economic contributions, age, family profile and length of stay in Singapore. These are factors which are considered under the Government’s immigration framework, to holistically assess applicants’ ability to contribute, integrate well into society and their commitment to sinking roots. We will continue to calibrate the immigration framework to address our population challenges and constraints. As part of the on-going review and public engagement on population issues, we are reviewing the number of immigrants Singapore takes in.”
“Page: 616 The Amendment Bill contains a saving provision to ensure that any pension or gratuity that has already been granted under the existing Act remains unaffected and continues to apply. With the removal of pension benefits, the Civil List and Pension Act will be renamed, more aptly, as the Civil List and Gratuity Act. Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move. [(proc text) Question put, and agreed to. (proc text)] [(proc text) Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. (proc text)] [(proc text) The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. – [Mr Teo Chee Hean]. (proc text)] [(proc text) Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. (proc text)]”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." Sir, this House had endorsed the White Paper on "Salaries for A Capable and Committed Government" in January this year. The Civil List and Pension (Amendment) Bill seeks to put into effect one of the recommendations in the White Paper, by removing the power of Parliament, provided for in the Civil List and Pension Act, to grant a pension to a former President. Allow me to first run through the history of the provision we are seeking to repeal. The Civil List and Pension Act was first introduced in 1970. Other than to provide a Civil List for the President, it also provided for the grant of a pension or gratuity of such amount and under such circumstances to a former President as Parliament may determine. This discretion was left to Parliament to give it flexibility to determine an amount based on the individual circumstances and needs of each former President. No former President has ever been granted a pension by the State. Sir, to give effect to the White Paper recommendation, the provisions in the Civil List and Pension Act which provides Parliament with the discretion to grant a pension to a former President will need to be removed. The Act currently also contains a provision that allows Parliament to grant a pension, in the event of death, to the widow and surviving dependants of the President and former Presidents. Although the White Paper did not make reference to this provision, this Bill seeks to remove this provision as well, which will be in line with the spirit of the recommendation to discontinue pension benefits for the President. Parliament can still separately resolve to grant a gratuity to surviving dependants of deceased Presidents and former Presidents if the need arises.”
“Thus far, there have been no cases that have warranted the exercise of this discretion under the PPA. Once again, Sir, I thank Mr de Souza and Mr Dhinakaran for their support for the Bill and for upholding the very important principles that underline this Bill. [(proc text) Question put, and agreed to. (proc text)] [(proc text) Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. (proc text)] [(proc text) The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. – [Mr Teo Chee Hean]. (proc text)] [(proc text) Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. (proc text)] Page: 615”
“This is because section 68 of the Women's Charter imposes an obligation on a parent to maintain or contribute to the maintenance of his/her child whether legitimate or not, and section 69 of the Women's Charter further provides for a court order to be obtained to enforce this obligation. Hence, the PPA allows for such a provision to be put into force, should a court so order. Finally, Mr Dhinakaran also called for the removal of the discretion by the President to transfer the pension of a Member of Parliament or office holder who has been imprisoned for corruption, to his family where the pension has been withheld or reinstate the withheld pension to the person after his imprisonment. Sir, I wholeheartedly agree with Mr Dhinakaran that there is no tolerance for corruption in this country. This is why in 1975 the PPA was amended to provide the President with the discretion to decide whether the whole or part of any pension should be withheld for any office holder or Member of Parliament convicted under the Prevention of Corruption Act or of any crime involving corruption under any other written law, even if he has only been fined and not imprisoned. Prior to that, under the Pensions Act, the pension gratuity could only be withdrawn in the event of imprisonment or the death penalty. Page: 615 As for the part of this provision which allows for possible transfer or reinstatement, it is entirely a matter of discretion whether any such transfer or reinstatement should be made, and it is not automatic. This is the same approach as a similar provision for civil servants in the Pensions Act and is meant to provide discretion during circumstances when transfer or reinstatement may be warranted.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, first of all I would like to thank Mr Christopher de Souza and Mr R Dhinakaran for speaking in support of this Bill. Now, on the specific matters that Mr Dhinakaran spoke on, perhaps I could respond. Mr Dhinakaran suggested that the minimum periods of reckonable service be made uniform for both office holders and Members of Parliament and set at either eight or nine years. Sir, his proposal, while there are some merits from an equity point of view, actually will have no practical effect now, or in the future, because only Members of Parliament who were elected before 1 January 1995 are eligible for a pension, that is, those who started service 17 years ago, and that far exceeds the minimum period required for eligibility for pension. So, all of such Members of Parliament who are still serving today would already have exceeded the current minimum reckonable service required for a pension and hence Mr Dhinakaran's proposal to shorten the minimum required service period to be eligible for pension would have no practical effect on any Member of Parliament now or in the future. I also mentioned in my speech earlier that there is no minimum period of service for the payment of the death gratuity. So, Mr Dhinakaran need have no concerns about that. Mr Dhinakaran also suggested that the provision that allows for death gratuity to be transferred to satisfy a court order for the payment of maintenance of a minor child, whether legitimate or not, be changed to exclude illegitimate children. This clause is part of the existing death gratuity provision in the PPA.”
“PSD will work with public sector agencies to attract and retain people with the passion to serve and build Singapore through a career in the Public Service. We will work with the Public Service Commission to attract and develop a fair share of the brightest and most committed young people through scholarships. Our internship programmes have grown in popularity, attracting Singaporeans studying locally and abroad. Annually, about 1,200 officers will benefit from public sector re-employment guidelines, which have been in place since 1 July 2011 ahead of the national legislation. We will continue to imbue in our officers a sense of pride in the Public Service so that they always serve with integrity, service and excellence. We will promote the formation of communities of practice, and a Service-wide Intranet to encourage our officers to better connect and share good practices. PSD will help our public officers to work hand-in-glove with the community to harness their ideas for solutions, thereby creating greater public value and better outcomes. This will help develop a society with greater citizen and stakeholder ownership through a constructive partnership between the Public Service and the public we serve.”
“The Public Service Division (PSD) aims to build a first class Public Service that is efficient, empathetic and effective to help Singapore be a cohesive, vibrant and exceptional country. Even as we tackle current challenges, we are keeping an eye on the future. The Centre for Strategic Futures, set up in 2009, conducts research on emerging risks and opportunities. This helps the Public Service think long-term and strategically, to respond quickly to fast changing circumstances. The Public Service must remain open to ideas and our officers empowered to effect change and improvement. PSD is experimenting with new tools such as Design Thinking, to reframe issues and design policies and services from the perspective of citizens and customers. The rapidly changing environment means that public officers need new competencies. PSD and the Civil Service College will systematically prepare our officers so that they possess the right experience, instincts and competencies to engage and build partnerships, in economic regulation and operating in the international environment. We will send more officers on attachments and secondments to community-based agencies such as the Community Development Councils so that they learn to develop and implement effective policies with both the head and the heart. Page: 54 PSD will work with MICA to prepare our officers to be more active and adept at understanding, engaging and connecting with a more active and engaged public to foster win-win partnerships. PSD will strengthen our leadership development programmes to grow bold, inspiring and transformational public sector leaders to spearhead dynamic and effective organisations that are adaptable to changes in the local and global environment.”
“Besides terrorism, the incidence of cyber attacks has escalated over the years and the consequences are becoming increasingly significant. Page: 53 Our security agencies have remained vigilant but we cannot be complacent. The National Security Coordination Secretariat (NSCS) promotes collaboration across Government agencies to mitigate threats in a holistic manner across domains such as aviation, maritime, land transport, critical infrastructure and cyberspace. A collaborative approach creates synergies between agencies and optimises the use of scarce resources. A well coordinated Government response has to be complemented with the participation of all Singaporeans. NSCS continues to organise and coordinate national security awareness and outreach programmes to engage all segments of our society. Collectively, we must be able to withstand an attack, bounce back and recover quickly should the worst come to pass. Technology is an effective force multiplier. Given Singapore's limited resources, we need to harness advanced technologies to address threats to our national security. The National Security Engineering Centre (NSEC), set up in partnership with the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), supports this through a national security technology roadmap that prioritises and develops technological applications. NSCS has developed a Risk Assessment and Horizon Scanning (RAHS) capability to raise Singapore's strategic anticipation capability, and to promote cross-domain and cross-agency sharing of perspectives on national security. Page: 53 Prime Minister's Office (Public Service Division) (Addendum to the President's Address)”
“A major new R&D thrust for the next five years is the "National Innovation Challenge" which harnesses our multi-disciplinary research capabilities to address complex national challenges in innovative and cost- competitive ways. This would not only help solve Singapore's own problems and make life better for Singaporeans, but also spawn new businesses to exploit opportunities abroad. The first National Innovation Challenge is "Energy Resilience for Sustainable Growth" which aims to develop cost-competitive energy solutions for deployment within 20 years to help Singapore improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and increase energy options. Two more such challenges are expected to be identified in the near future. Research and innovation underpin the competitiveness of our industries, catalyse new growth areas and transform our economy. Working with other agencies, the NRF seeks to create a self-reinforcing innovation eco-system in Singapore, which will provide the basis for sustainable economic growth into the future. Page: 52 Prime Minister's Office (National Security Coordination Secretariat) (Addendum to the President's Address) The Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security (Mr Teo Chee Hean): Terrorism remains a persistent threat. Recent terror attacks in Indonesia, India and Norway are clear reminders that acts of terrorism are not exclusively associated with any one sector of the ideological spectrum. "Lone Wolf" terrorists, who act without formal links to an established terrorist organisation, aided by easily available tools and methods propagated by the Internet, are much more difficult to prevent.”
“These NRF Fellows will not just generate breakthrough ideas, but will serve as role-models and catalysts to develop an environment and culture that spawns new knowledge and innovation. Since 2007, 38 fellowships have been awarded. The Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise (CREATE) is a research hub where some of the world's best universities have set up research centres here, drawing together the best of research talent from around the world to work with our own. CREATE will house some 1,000 researchers of diverse cultures and backgrounds from top research institutions, universities and corporate labs. Page: 52 The Competitive Research Programme (CRP) provides opportunities for local researchers from the universities and industry to obtain substantial research grants. Thirty-one projects in diverse fields have been awarded. Some projects have made significant scientific discoveries which could lead to the creation of novel applications. Innovation is key to sustainable economic growth, and hi-tech start-ups are responsible for most breakthrough innovations, jobs and wealth creation. The National Framework of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NFIE) will help Singapore translate the treasure trove of knowledge from our tertiary and research institutions into applications and products. Singapore's size, well-developed infrastructure and a highly efficient and integrated government enable our country to effectively tackle large, complex problems. Our solutions will also be useful to other cities facing similar challenges. One example is our water industry, which has been able to deploy their expertise globally.”
“In the top-down approach, three strategic areas of research were identified. These are areas in which Singapore has a unique competitive edge to seek a leadership position. (i) The Biomedical Sciences Translational and Clinical Research (BMS-TCR) programme to translate basic research into treatments for patients. (ii) The Environment and Water Technologies (EWT) Programme to develop a new water industry supported by strong R&D, as well as position Singapore as a Clean Energy Hub. (iii) The Interactive and Digital Media (IDM) Programme to leverage on Singapore's strong foundation in ICT and education to create innovative niches with a focus on games and edutainment. To complement the "top-down" approach, NRF also encourages the best ideas to surface "bottom-up" for Singapore to identify new areas of research and pre-position ourselves for new industries. Some specific programmes are enumerated in the following paragraphs. The five Research Centres of Excellence (RCE) supported by NRF and MOE are expected to be among the top research centres worldwide in their respective fields within a decade of establishment. They help to orientate our universities from teaching universities to internationally competitive research-intensive universities that are attractive to researchers and students. They will train some 800 PhD students and post-docs, adding significantly to the local talent pool in multi-disciplinary research. They will contribute to generating knowledge and innovation that could be commercialised. The NRF Fellowship programme supports top young scientists, local and foreign, to undertake research in universities and research institutes in Singapore.”
“The National Research Foundation (NRF) seeks to strengthen Singapore's R&D capabilities, encourage greater innovation and nurture the growth of technology-based enterprises in Singapore. This will help Singapore to remain competitive and create high value jobs and prosperity for Singaporeans. Since the establishment of the Research, Innovation and Enterprise Council (RIEC) and the NRF in 2006, Government Ministries and agencies have been actively engaged in R&D and innovation to enhance service delivery and foster stronger economic growth. Our universities have raised their international profiles for research excellence and academic entrepreneurship, attracting more partnerships and providing more opportunities to their students. Renowned foreign institutions have set up a significant R&D presence in Singapore, helping Singapore to establish herself as a global R&D hub. This will help us to attract talent and generate intellectual property, and enhance our international competitiveness. Page: 51 There are two major thrusts for the next five years under the NRF2015 Strategic Plan. Thrust 1 aims to strengthen the research, innovation and enterprise foundation that was built up in the first five years. Thrust 2 seeks to bring together the considerable R&D expertise in diverse areas in Singapore built up over the years to develop solutions to major national challenges that would have global applicability. Singapore's long-term aim is to be among the most research-intensive, innovative and entrepreneurial economies in the world in order to create high value jobs and prosperity for Singaporeans. Increasingly, intellectual capital will be critical for our next phase of economic development. The NRF adopts both a "top-down" and a "bottom-up" approach.”
“Building a resilient, cohesive and integrated society will require our collective efforts and commitment. Together, we can build a better and distinctly Singaporean home for ourselves and generations to come. Page: 50 Prime Minister's Office (National Research Foundation) (Addendum to the President's Address)”
“Page: 50 The National Population and Talent Division (NPTD) will work with other Government agencies to address the challenge of shaping a sustainable population for a dynamic country. In doing so, NPTD will ensure that Singaporeans' interests come first, and that our society remains resilient, cohesive and integrated. Singapore is a small but open economy that operates in a globalised environment. To remain successful, we must continue to tap on a global blend of people and ideas to move Singapore ahead and in doing so, create more opportunities for Singaporeans. We will adopt the twin strategy of welcoming talent to augment our economic vitality, while emphasising education and training to equip Singaporeans to advance confidently in the global economy. Immigration has helped to address our declining fertility and inject vibrancy in our economy and society. At the same time, we must ensure that Singaporeans' sense of belonging and national identity remain strong. We will continue to manage the pace of immigration to ensure that immigrants are assimilable, of good quality and can be well integrated into Singapore society. We will also work with other Government agencies to plan in an integrated manner for social and physical infrastructure that will match the needs of the population. Getting married, starting a family and having children remain important life goals for many Singaporeans. We will continue to promote a pro-family environment to support Singaporeans in realising these life goals. We will continue to engage Singaporeans who are overseas so that they stay connected to Singapore and fellow Singaporeans. The Government is committed to looking after the interests of every Singaporean.”
“The Government will continue to adopt a consultative and inclusive approach with all stakeholders. Together, we will strengthen our readiness to address climate change and grow Singapore along a sustainable, low-carbon pathway for ourselves and our future generations. Page: 49 Prime Minister's Office (National Population and Talent Division) (Addendum to the President's Address)”
“Climate change is a major challenge for all countries, including Singapore. As an island state, we must stand ready to deal with the impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels. As a responsible member of the global community, we will also play our part to lower carbon emissions. We must work to achieve these goals while safeguarding our standard of living and our economic competitiveness. We will enhance our understanding and expertise in climate science, and build up Singapore's resilience and adaptability to climate change in key areas such as coastal protection, water resources and drainage, biodiversity, public health as well as urban infrastructure. We will reduce our carbon emissions in two main ways: first, greater use of less carbon intensive fuels, and, secondly, improved energy conservation and efficiency. This will require us to promote energy efficient design, equipment and processes in industries, transport, buildings and homes. To support this, the Government will invest in infrastructure as well as in research and development of low carbon technologies for deployment in Singapore. Businesses and households will also have to change their practices and lifestyles respectively to be more environmentally sustainable. Singapore's experience and expertise in addressing the challenges of climate change will generate new economic opportunities in emerging industries, such as clean energy, carbon services and energy services, as well as in existing industries. We will work with the business community to seek out and capitalise on such opportunities locally and abroad. We need a national effort to address climate change. The people, private and public sectors need to work closely together.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, I beg to report that the Committee of Supply has made progress on the Estimates of Expenditure for the financial year 2011/2012, and ask leave to sit again tomorrow.”
“Sir, may I seek your consent to move that progress be reported now and leave be asked to sit again tomorrow?”
“Mr Sin Boon Ann asked for some figures. Let me provide the figures that I have. Overall, the number of training incidents has been on a decline. For example, if we compare 2008-2009 versus 2010-2011, the training incidents reduced from 97 to about 36, which is about a third. If I can give another example, the number of heat injury cases – something that we are all quite familiar with – has decreased from quite a high from many years ago, in fact, close to 100, to now about 14 cases. This has been the result of the safety system that was rechecked. They looked at what were the factors and the various measures in place. These positive trends encourage us to continue to try hard and make sure to reduce the number of incidents to the lowest possible. Let me now hand over to Assoc. Prof. Koo Tsai Kee who will speak on the RECORD V initiatives, and MINDEF's efforts to engage Singaporeans on defence issues.”
“Our commanders undergo basic counselling training and mental health awareness programmes and are equipped to identify and address the issues raised by their soldiers. If they require more specialised assistance, soldiers can be referred to medical officers, para- or professional counsellors, or SAF psychiatrists. In addition, we have a 24-hour SAF Counselling Hotline, which soldiers can call if they need help. Sir, Mr Sin Boon Ann asked for an update on training safety. I would like to assure the House that the safety of our people is of paramount importance. I agree with him that we must uphold the trust that the community and families placed on SAF and MINDEF when they send their sons for NS. At the organisational level, the SAF has established a rigorous set of Training Safety Regulations and procedures to ensure that safety measures are systematically incorporated into all our training activities. There is also a robust risk assessment process in place, to ensure that our personnel identify risks before every significant activity, and that these risks are mitigated. The SAF also seeks to instil a strong culture of safety in our soldiers through leadership emphasis, and by enabling open reporting systems and practices in our units. At the individual level, our servicemen are drilled on how to conduct their activities safely and trained to be safety conscious. For example, new entrants to the SAF must undergo safety induction training. While we do our best to reduce incidents to a minimum, all of us recognise that they cannot be totally eliminated. The SAF will continue to maintain high safety standards and take active steps to ensure the continued safety and well-being of our servicemen. We strive to keep this as low as possible.”
“At present, there are no operational needs that justify imposing upon women to serve NS. But we agree with Mr Viswa that, indeed, MINDEF welcomes women and others not called up for NS to volunteer their services in the SAF as well as in the support of Total Defence. For example, there are women volunteers serving as nurses in the SAF's Combat Support Hospitals and as Community Emergency Response Team members in various constituencies. We can consider other areas, as he has suggested, where women volunteers and others can make a meaningful contribution in the defence of our nation. Sir, Assoc. Prof. Fatimah Lateef asked how the SAF ensures the psychological well-being of our National Servicemen. Prior to enlistment, all pre-enlistees are provided with a comprehensive guide to mentally prepare them for NS. The numerous videos on cyberpioneerTV on YouTube on Basic Military Training (BMT) are also part of our efforts to help pre-enlistees and their families prepare themselves for NS. In addition, they undergo medical and psychological tests to ascertain whether they are suitable for enlistment and deployment. Those who are identified with possible psychological problems are given the appropriate counselling or psychiatric assistance upon enlistment. Upon enlistment into BMT, commanders pay attention to the common problems faced by their recruits in adjusting to various aspects of NS life, such as regimentation, physical demands and communal living. They are taught stress management skills and are assigned to a buddy that can look out for them during training. During the course of his NS, every National Serviceman is interviewed regularly by his commanders, which allows him to bring up problems that he may encounter.”
“We believe that as a small armed forces, the SAF must maximise the potential of each serviceman, and develop them well to be better prepared for future challenges. Sir, I agree with Mr Viswa Sadasivan that it is every Singaporean’s duty to defend the country. In fact, I was greatly cheered by his views and his own perception of what National Service means. I also agree that after 44 years, we have had strong support for NS from Singaporeans. During passing out parades, you see generations of fathers and sons. Many of you who have sons would have experienced it and it is a very special moment. It has a unique place in the hearts of many Singaporeans. We will continue to engage the hearts and minds of Singaporeans so that all of them will believe that this is a commitment more than a liability. But we must bear three fundamental principles in mind when considering full-time NS. First, it must be only for critical national need because it imposes considerable cost both to the individual and to the nation. That critical need is national security and our survival. Second, it must be universal. All young Singaporean males who are fit are conscripted. Because if some males are conscripted but others are not, there will be strong feelings of unfairness. The third principle is equity, which means that our NS policies are applied equitably to everyone regardless of background or status. 6.30 pm From time to time, there have been calls to extend NS beyond this remit to fulfil social objectives or otherwise. While these objectives are laudable, we must not dilute the restriction of NS only to critical needs of national security and survival and base it on the three fundamental principles I have just articulated.”
“The SAF has also established tie-ups with universities to accredit the professional training that our personnel receive in the SAF. For example, UniSIM, in collaboration with the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida in the US, will accredit up to 20 credit units to graduates of selected Air Force Training Command courses towards relevant Bachelor Degrees from both universities. Such accreditation is a strong testament to the rigour and quality of our training and development programmes. We are also leveraging on technology to facilitate the professional development of our servicemen. For example, LEARNet, which is currently available at the Basic Military Training Centre, the Specialist Cadet School and the Officer Cadet School, allows our soldiers to access online training content to carry out self-directed learning. The SAF has also put in place an SAF-wide knowledge repository system for official documents and information, and this has contributed to the SAF’s productivity because it enables our personnel to store, search and access information rapidly and securely. More importantly, it accelerates the propagation of knowledge and information. I am pleased to inform Members of this House that the SAF was conferred the Asian Most Admired Knowledge Enterprise 2010 Award for the progress that we have made in this area. The winners of this award were selected by a panel of Asian Fortune Global 500 senior executives and leading knowledge management experts, and the other winners last year included Infosys Technologies, LG Electronics, and Toyota. So we are in great company. All these initiatives illustrate the SAF’s commitment to training and developing our people.”
“For example, the Centre for Army Lessons Learnt, which was created in October 2010, aims to enhance the Army’s learning from military operations and training exercises. This year, the SAF will establish the SAF Centre for Operational Learning, which will spearhead efforts to draw operational lessons learned that are applicable across the three Services and, where necessary, institutionalise them into doctrines and processes. The SAF will continue to work with appropriate professional partners to ensure high standards of its programmes. For example, the SAF established partnerships with the Justice Institute of British Columbia and Nanyang Polytechnic in April last year to enhance paramedic training for its combat medics. These partnerships allow the SAF to strengthen the basic medical knowledge of its medics, give them the skills to treat more complex medical conditions as well as attend to casualties in an operating theatre or an intensive care unit. Our medics can also choose to pursue Diploma and Advanced Diploma courses in paramedic care. Over the past year, the SAF has also collaborated with various Institutes of Higher Learning to further strengthen the SAF’s continuing education system. Through the SAF-NTU Academy that was established last year, NTU co-conducts modules at the Goh Keng Swee Command and Staff College, which are accredited towards NTU Masters programmes. The SAF has also worked with NTU to launch a 12-week Undergraduate Professional Military Education and Training Programme that provides SAF personnel with foundation courses in military knowledge. Completion of this programme earns the officers credit towards Degree requirements at the four public universities in Singapore.”
“Their jobs have also been re-designed and restructured to focus on combat leadership roles, and to anchor key SAF competencies in leadership, tactical war-fighting expertise and training supervision. Many Warrant Officers and Specialists look forward to the greater responsibilities and new pinnacle appointments that they can now undertake. Let me give one example. Army Senior Warrant Officer Lee Sung Cheng has the honour of being the first SAF Warrant Officer to be appointed as Commanding Officer of a Training School. He assumed command of the Specialist and Warrant Officer Advanced School on 31st January this year. This was a post previously held by a Lieutenant-Colonel. In Senior Warrant Officer Lee’s words, he said that such appointments "speak volumes of the faith and trust that the organisation has placed upon our Warrant Officers". SAF Officers have also welcomed the wider range of continuing education, professional military education and training, and leadership development opportunities presented by the Enhanced Officers Scheme. The public response to these schemes in terms of recruitment has been encouraging. Against the backdrop of strong economic conditions and a tight labour market, more have chosen to embark on an SAF career in 2010 as compared to 2009. This is a positive sign as we need to continue to attract able and committed people to the 3rd Generation SAF. The SAF will step up professional development and continuing education programmes to equip our servicemen at different points of their career. Dr Lam Pin Min asked about our professional development programmes. Let me give some details.”
“A new scheme of service was created – called the Military Domain Experts Scheme (MDES) – to build and retain deep professional expertise in critical military domain areas, such as engineering and intelligence. This new career pathway has been well received. There was a 95% take-up rate among the personnel eligible for conversion to MDES. Servicemen who have converted to MDES are enthusiastic about the greater opportunities for professional development and career progression. Let me give just one example to illustrate – Air Force technician Military Expert 2 (ME2) Ang Boon Siong, who attained his Bachelor of Engineering in 2009 from UniSIM through part-time studies. He is being recognised for his outstanding performance and strong potential. At age 28, he will be the youngest amongst his peers to be emplaced in the rank of ME4 upon completing his Military Domain Expert Course. In tandem with the introduction of MDES, we have enhanced the schemes for Warrant Officers and Officers. Under the enhanced schemes, our Officers can stay with the SAF till age 50, instead of retiring in their mid-40s. Warrant Officers retire at age 55. Servicemen under the MDES scheme retire at 60. This was a point raised by Mr Michael Palmer about extending the career lengths. The career lengths of our enhanced schemes balance the needs to allow more time for professional development without losing the dynamism that is critical to an effective and potent SAF. However, where there is a critical organisational need, the SAF does selectively retain our servicemen beyond their stipulated retirement age. The Enhanced Warrant Officers Scheme has been well-received. Under this scheme, those with potential to reach Warrant Officer rank can do so earlier.”
“Sir, at the heart of our transformation efforts is our people – the key resource enabling us to realise our 3rd Generation transformation. We need to therefore attract, develop and retain people with the right set of values and abilities. This is an issue which Mr Palmer asked about. This House will be aware that MINDEF has put in place new and enhanced career schemes to enable us to do so. At the same time, to increase the professional depth of our servicemen and to facilitate life-long learning, we have strengthened our professional development and continuing education programmes. These efforts have been well received. Dr Ng Eng Hen will now elaborate on these initiatives and also speak on the subjects of National Service and training safety which several Members have asked about. Assoc. Prof. Koo Tsai Kee will later speak on implementation of the RECORD V initiatives and MINDEF's efforts to reach out to and engage various segments of Singaporeans on defence issues, including Total Defence. The Second Minister for Defence (Dr Ng Eng Hen): Sir, if I may elaborate on some issues raised by Members. MINDEF agrees with Mr Michael Palmer and Dr Lam Pin Min that attracting and retaining the right people for the SAF is critical to keeping its edge. Dr Lam said that it was the single most important resource, and we agree. And this indeed was the reason why we introduced new career schemes last year, so that we could better match the aspirations of people seeking a career within the SAF. As the Deputy Prime Minister has just mentioned, the 3rd Generation SAF also requires deep professional competence in many vocations. We have therefore also rolled out numerous professional development programmes to equip our servicemen with the competencies required.”
“By anticipating these trends and capitalising on them, MINDEF has made the necessary adaptations without compromising operational readiness by exploiting technology, using fewer people, and commercialising our logistics and support functions. The improving educational profile of our population has proven to be an important advantage. Today's servicemen are better educated and adaptable and, hence, better able to master new skills and operate more technologically complex systems. This has allowed us to proliferate systems such as light-weight UAVs and the Advanced Combat Man System down to our soldiers. This also allows the SAF to field more capable 3rd Generation platforms that require less manpower to operate. I went to visit some new designs for battlefield management systems for our armoured vehicles. What they have done is that they have got polytechnic students to come in and play with the models that they have set up for the man-machine interface for the display and control systems in the fighting vehicle. This helps our engineers in the industry to design the system. Eventually, these polytechnic soldiers, when they join the SAF, will be operating these systems which they helped to design at the prototype stage. Our Formidable-class frigates are good examples of how we have been able to have the capability but with fewer people. It has a crew half of what many other navies need to operate a similar class of ship. And now other navies, including the US Navy, are just beginning to operate ships of this size and class with similar sizes of crew that we are operating. MINDEF will continue to take stock of the challenges we face and build on our strengths to find effective solutions to new challenges.”