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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“This is to ensure that the pilots are able to respond quickly and professionally in order to minimise any risk posed to the public in the event of an aircraft emergency.”
“Overseas training is more costly but it helps address the airspace constraints our pilots face at home. Simulator training is a useful and effective component of pilot training to improve piloting and operational skills. It allows pilots of varying experience to be trained on aircraft handling under different operational scenarios and this includes, in particular, training all our pilots on handling the various types of aircraft emergencies. Mr Speaker, Sir, the safety of our populace is a top priority of MINDEF and the RSAF. We have thus taken steps to ensure that training flights over residential areas are minimised whenever possible, that they are conducted safely and that they are in accordance to norms prescribed by international aviation bodies, such as the International Civil Aviation Organisation and the Federal Aviation Authority of the United States. These norms govern the minimum flying altitudes designed to ensure the safety of residents living in close proximity to airbases, airports or air fields. They are similar to those adopted in airports which operate in densely-populated cities as well as where civilian helicopters are used for transportation in major cities and land on helipads on high-rise buildings in densely populated areas. So it is not uncommon for aircraft and helicopters, even civilian ones, to operate over densely populated areas. While we cannot totally prevent machine failures from occurring, we will do our best to minimise the risk of such failures. The RSAF has in place a comprehensive maintenance programme to ensure the air worthiness of our aircraft. In addition, all our pilots undergo regular emergency aircraft training; and discussions on emergency procedures are carried out as part of every pre-flight preparation.”
“Safety to the populace has the highest priority. This is what the two pilots did in this incident. When they determined that they were not able to land at an airbase, they considered their options, and found an open space away from buildings and populated areas, verified and confirmed that the field was clear of people, and then executed an emergency landing. Any open unused plots of land or open fields are potential emergency landing sites for helicopters. Depending on the flight route of the helicopter, various open spaces are identified and briefed as part of pre-flight procedures for that flight. This is carried out for all RSAF helicopter flights. Hence, it is not possible to identify any specific open spaces as designated emergency landing sites as emergency landing sites depend on the flight routes being taken and where the emergency occurs. Our pilots are trained to ensure the safety of the public before making a decision to land in any of these open spaces, and they will forego such a landing even at risk to themselves if there is a danger to the population. Let me now turn to the issue of flight training in Singapore and the safety of our population. Mr Speaker, Sir, Singapore is densely populated and has limited airspace. The RSAF also has to share the tight airspace with civilian aircraft. Given these constraints, in addition to local training, the RSAF conducts training in overseas training areas as well as on simulators. The RSAF strikes an appropriate balance amongst these three forms of training. Local training is essential to maintain the proficiency of our Singapore-based aircrew, and to ensure that all our pilots are familiar with the local operating environment.”
“The maintenance procedure does not call for the RSAF to open up the AISBV for inspection. This can only be done by the manufacturer. The aircraft operator, in our case the RSAF, needs to replace the AISBV only after a fault code appears in the aircraft computer during flight, or when running the engine on the ground for tests. The nature of the malfunction arising from the corrosion was not detected by the aircraft computer and therefore no fault code was generated. We are now studying, together with the aircraft manufacturer, the maintenance procedures to see whether the maintenance procedures mandated by the manufacturer need to be modified so that corrosion which occurs inside this valve can be prevented, or can be detected and corrected should it occur. To ensure that our helicopters are fitted only with valves that operate properly, the RSAF will replace all existing valves with new ones, or valves that are re-certified by the manufacturer, and test the engines thoroughly before we clear each helicopter for flying. Having also reviewed and established that the RSAF’s maintenance, flight and training safety procedures are sound, the Apache and the SeaHawk helicopters will progressively resume flying this week. Mr Speaker, Sir, the RSAF maintains the highest standards of maintenance and flight safety. Let me now turn from the cause of the power loss in the engines to how the RSAF's pilots are trained to handle emergencies. Training in emergencies is a key part of the training of all our pilots. In the event of an emergency, where possible, the aircraft will be flown back to the nearest airbase immediately. If this is not feasible, the pilots will attempt a safe landing at the nearest open space. In doing so, the key priority is always to avoid populated areas.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, MINDEF has carried out investigations with the aircraft and engine manufacturers into the cause of the loss of power in both engines which led to the incident of the Apache landing in the open field. Following the incident, both engines from the aircraft were sent to the manufacturers for a full tear-down and inspection. The manufacturers have identified a defective component which is present in both engines of the aircraft, which led to the loss of power and shut-down of both engines during flight. The defective component is called the Anti-Ice Start Bleed Valve (AISBV). A corroded valve would lead to malfunctioning of the guide vanes that channel air to the aircraft engine. The disruption of airflow to the engine will lead to the loss of engine power. The Anti-Ice Start Bleed Valves in both engines were found internally corroded when opened up by the manufacturer. The defect was caused by corrosion in the valve which occurred over time. The investigation then looked into why the AISBV was corroded and why the corrosion went undetected. We looked into whether there was a manufacturing defect or a maintenance error. Sir, the valves used in the RSAF Apache fleet are the same as those used by other Apache operators around the world. We have no evidence that there were manufacturing defects in these valves. We have also ascertained that the RSAF maintenance crews adhered to the required maintenance procedures specified by the manufacturer for the aircraft, including the AISBV. Prior to this, there were no reported incidents of the same nature. Currently, there are also no stipulated maintenance checks that would allow such internal corrosion in the AISBV to be detected by the maintainers.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, may I have your permission to take Question Nos. 3, 4, 5 and 6 together? Mr Speaker: Yes.”
“One fundamental principle of National Service (NS) is equity – every enlistee is treated in an even-handed and fair way compared with other enlistees. Equity is essential to maintain the strong support of our population for NS. MINDEF therefore ensures that, as far as possible, those in the same cohort from our local educational institutions are enlisted at about the same time and complete their full-time NS in time to proceed for further studies in the same year as their peers. Pre-enlistees who complete their "A" Levels overseas in June are enlisted in the same way as others in their cohort who take the "A" levels in the same year, and are thus no better off and no worse off than their peers who studied in Singapore. They will be able to enter the same university in the same year as their peers who complete their "A" Levels in November at educational institutions in Singapore. They are assigned to the appropriate quarterly enlistment batch that will enable them to do so. SECURITY OFFICER LICENCES (Non-Singapore citizens) 2. Ms Sylvia Lim asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs (a) what is the proportion of licences that are issued to non-Singapore citizens to work as security officers; and (b) what proportion of licensees are not working in that industry.”
“DISRUPTIONS FROM FALLEN TREES (Government review) 44. Mr Baey Yam Keng asked the Minister for National Development in view of the recent incidences of fallen trees due to heavy rains and strong winds resulting in injuries and traffic disruptions on many roads, whether the Ministry will review the types of trees planted in Singapore and the tree care guidelines in order to minimise future disruptions and danger to pedestrians and motorists.”
“Mr Lim Biow Chuan has asked whether MINDEF prohibits full-time national servicemen or regular servicemen from seeking assistance from their Members of Parliament to submit petitions on their behalf to the Ministry. The SAF is a military organisation which has established procedures for its servicemen to seek redress. A serviceman is required to seek redress through the chain of command on all matters arising from his military service and on all matters concerning the SAF. If the serviceman is dissatisfied with the action taken by his commanders or the MINDEF department involved, he can raise the issue through the chain of command to the Armed Forces Council, which is chaired by the Minister for Defence. These proper procedures for seeking redress are set out in the General Orders of MINDEF. They are also included in the Recruit's Handbook, a copy of which is given to all enlistees. Such procedures need to be adhered to in a military organisation, in order to maintain discipline, uphold morale and protect confidential information. SAF servicemen, like their fellow Singaporeans, are free to approach their Members of Parliament for assistance on their personal matters. However, when it concerns matters related to the SAF or their service in the SAF, they should take them up through their chain of command. When a Member of Parliament sends a petition on behalf of the serviceman on matters pertaining to the SAF, the SAF will conduct a thorough investigation, and depending on the outcome of the investigation, take appropriate action to address the serviceman's concerns. This includes advising the serviceman to go through the proper channels through which he could seek redress. The Member of Parliament will also be appropriately apprised of the outcome of the appeal.”
“Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources (a) how vulnerable to flash floods are public housing estates such as Bedok and Chai Chee; and (b) whether the current infrastructure at these public housing estates is adequate to cater to the new patterns of rainfall. 12. Ms Irene Ng Phek Hoong asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources whether the recent flash floods in Singapore are linked to global warming and, if so, what action will the Ministry take in planning for the future and to raise public awareness of the possibility of greater climatic fluctuations and their effects on Singapore.”
“Miss Penny Low asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources in view of the rising sea level and climate change issues that can lead to flash floods and other unprecedented calamities (a) how is Singapore preparing itself in terms of (i) physical infrastructure; (ii) information infrastructure; (iii) links to regional and global information and warning systems; and (b) how can the Ministry better prepare residents to help themselves and others in such times. 9. Mdm Ho Geok Choo asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources in light of the second flash floods on 25th June 2010 (a) what are the underlying causes for the floods in Newton, Novena, Kampung Java and Little India; (b) what plans are in place to rectify the existing problems; and (c) what new plans will be put in place to better prepare our environment from other similar calamities. 10. Mr Teo Siong Seng asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources (a) what are the financial losses resulting from the recent flood in Orchard Road; (b) if any financial assistance or support services will be extended to shop owners affected by the flooding and temporary closure of their shops for major repair, including those without sufficient insurance coverage; and (c) whether the grassroots organisations and CDCs will consider extending their community engagement programmes and services to help shop owners and workers affected by future emergencies such as the flooding of major retail districts. 11. Assoc. Prof.”
“Er Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources in view of the flash floods which occurred in parts of Singapore on 16th June 2010 (a) what caused the floods; (b) how often does PUB check on the maintenance of the drains; (c) what is the design capacity of our drainage system especially in the city area; and (d) what is the process for PUB to monitor the adequacy of the drainage system for various locations in view of the constant building redevelopment in Singapore. 6. Assoc. Prof. Fatimah Lateef asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources (a) what is the root cause of the recent flood in Orchard Road which caused damage estimated at millions of dollars; (b) whether the flooding could have been prevented with regular checks or having a better drainage system in place; (c) whether recent water works have a contributory role to the flood; and (d) what strategy will the Ministry be undertaking to avoid occurrence in the other areas of Singapore. 7. Miss Penny Low asked the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources in light of the floods which occurred in parts of Singapore on 16th June 2010 (a) what measures have been put in place to prevent a recurrence; (b) how does the Ministry rate our national drainage system; (c) how does the Ministry rate our national agencies' emergency response to the situation; and (d) how can the Ministry better prepare property owners, shopkeepers, shoppers and residents in responding to emergencies. 8.”
“Events around the world as well as continuing incidents in our immediate neighbourhood remind us that it will be a long time before the threat from jihadist terrorism subsides. Singapore – including the SAF – will need to watch this international context, and continue to manage our own racial and religious issues sensitively and pragmatically so as to safeguard our racial and religious harmony. The SAF will not let individual incidents, in particular those which impinge on sensitive racial and religious areas, cause distrust or suspicions among us, and negate the progress we have so painstakingly made. When we acknowledge the real problems that we face and tackle them together sincerely and practically, we can strengthen understanding, trust and confidence among our communities in Singapore, and thus make further progress together. Our best approach is for the SAF to decide on appointments and advancements based on qualifications and merits of the servicemen so long as they are committed to Singapore, dedicated to the SAF, and capable of doing the job. By assessing each person according to these criteria, we can recognise the commitment, contributions and abilities of our servicemen, who come together to serve in the defence of our nation. RECENT FLASH FLOODS IN SINGAPORE 5.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, as I stated earlier, investigations have shown that Muhammad Fadil was a solitary individual who took the wrong path. This specific case, therefore, will not affect the way MINDEF deploys Malay or Muslim servicemen in the SAF. The role of Malays in the defence of our nation and in the SAF and the associated challenges and dilemmas we face, are difficult and sensitive issues for our multi-racial, multi-religious society. They have confronted Singapore since our early days of nation-building. The Government has on several occasions discussed them in this House as well as with Malay community leaders. Over the years, we have been able to all work together in an honest, realistic and practical manner to make progress together as fellow Singaporeans. The SAF is a microcosm of Singapore society, and race relations within the SAF reflect those in our broader society. Thus as Singapore has made steady progress towards racial and religious integration, so has the SAF. Malays serve today in many more places and roles in the SAF than before – in the Commandos, Engineers, Artillery, and as Pilots and Sea Soldiers. As Malay educational standards have improved, a higher proportion of Malay enlistees are fulfilling the educational prerequisites to be selected for commanders’ training. Indeed, more Malays are now serving their full-time national service as commanders. And among our regular Malay servicemen, some have risen to hold senior and sensitive Command and Staff appointments. In each case, it is because the individual serviceman has the required qualifications and merit, and is the most suitable person for the job. Nevertheless, in an age of jihadist terrorism, race and religion remain salient issues.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, investigations have shown that Muhammad Fadil was a solitary individual who took the wrong path. This specific case, therefore, has not affected the security and integrity of the SAF or MINDEF’s view of other Malay or Muslim servicemen, who continue to serve dutifully and with commitment in their units. MINDEF has briefed SAF commanders on this case, and they have briefed their own servicemen so as to ensure that the whole organisation understands this position clearly. The security agencies in MINDEF and the Ministry of Home Affairs worked closely together on this case. They acted as soon as there was sufficient indication that Muhammad Fadil was a security risk. At the national level, we have instituted security systems and processes to detect, monitor and neutralise potential security threats. MINDEF and the SAF is part of this national system, and will continue to maintain a high level of vigilance against any potential threats that may surface.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, may I have your permission to take Question Nos. 3 and 4 together?”
“To carry the UAV and launch it, the soldier requires muscular strength in his lower body and agility in his upper arm, and his combat fitness training will specifically target the muscle groups that require more emphasis. While these vocation-specific fitness training activities are relevant to the combat fitness of soldiers, we do not yet have sufficient data on the specific standards to be measured. Furthermore, there will be a range of such combat fitness training activities, each specific to the vocations of the servicemen. Proper validation and data collection are required before we introduce any test. In the meantime, the SAF will continue to use the IPPT as the baseline physical fitness test while enhancing the combat fitness training for specific vocations according to their combat requirements. WRITTEN ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS MONEY LAUNDERING OFFENCES (Update) 1. Ms Sylvia Lim asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs (a) how many persons had been charged in the last three years for money laundering offences, whether under the Corruption, Drug Trafficking and Other Serious Crimes (Confiscation of Benefits) Act or any other relevant legislation; (b) how many of those persons charged were Singapore citizens, permanent residents and foreigners; (c) what was the range of sums involved in the transactions; and (d) what was the outcome of the cases and the range of punishments meted out.”
“Ms Indranee Rajah has asked about the SAF's fitness training. The SAF has a fitness training regime which aims to train and measure the overall fitness of our servicemen. The SAF reviews this training regime regularly to ensure its continued relevance. The Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT), which we are currently using, has been well validated as a good base-line measure of our soldiers' physical fitness. We have comprehensive sets of data on the appropriate standards for each age group and gender to support this. The IPPT is simple to administer and has specific targets for our NSmen to achieve. This is of particular importance to the Operationally Ready NSmen who have to train on their own for the IPPT. We do not want a complex physical fitness test that requires much resources to administer, and much time on the part of the Operationally Ready NSmen to train and achieve the base-line fitness level. A pass in the IPPT indicates a basic level of fitness to perform a range of activities relevant to the SAF, with a silver or gold achievement indicating a higher level of fitness. However, a pass in the IPPT is only a base-line level of fitness from which a serviceman can be trained for his vocation. In parallel to the physical fitness built up through the IPPT, the SAF conducts combat fitness training to prepare soldiers for activities specific to their combat vocations. This includes the building of core strength. For example, there is the Standard Obstacle Course for combat vocations. Another example is the Recce Surveillance Trooper who now carries a mini Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) on his back to help in surveillance operations.”
“Sir, our defence policy is based on diplomacy and deterrence. That means in diplomacy, we make friends with everybody who wish to be friends with us and we build sincere relationships, strong relationships and personal relationships even with defence establishments all around the region. In this way, we hope that we create greater understanding of what we do for defence, and also create greater understanding on our part on what they do for defence, so that we can avoid any mistakes or misunderstandings which may give rise to friction or conflict. From time to time, there may be people who do not understand what other countries are doing in defence. That is not unusual, but I believe that by constant and frequent engagement with other countries in the region, we will be able promote greater understanding of what we all do and how we can combine our efforts in defence together to create peace and stability in the region.”
“For NSmen pursuing full-time studies in private educational institutions, their requests for deferment from their ICT have to be considered on a case-by-case basis. NSmen are given at least three to six months' advance notice of their NS call-ups. And I think this should be enough time for them to inform their employers, to work with them to adjust and re-prioritise their work schedules. Each NSman has a role to play and the unit is affected if he is deferred from his In-Camp Training. There is a need to strike a balance between the inconvenience caused to the NSman, the company as well as the impact on the unit if the NSman is granted deferment. Having said that, we recognise that there are some circumstances where we have exercised flexibility in the granting of deferment for NSmen. For example, there may be situations where an NSman finds it difficult to adjust his work commitments because a few of his colleagues who could cover his duties are also being called up. In such circumstances, the commander on the ground, who is often an NSman himself, is in the best position to make the judgment, because it is the commander who is held accountable for the readiness of his unit. In terms of full-time National Servicemen and enlistment, our prevailing principle that underscores these principles of equality and fairness ensures that if you are enlisted and when you finally do go to university, you do not go to university later than your peers within the same cohort.”
“That means that our NS policies are applied equitably to everyone regardless of background or status. These three principles apply to the enlistment. They apply to every National Servicemen, including those who have returned from overseas. And they are subject to the same enlistment policies as their peers who are living or studying in Singapore. Let me explain the context of our enlistment procedures. It is based on a number of factors, such as the individual's medical fitness, the type of training he will undertake in BMT, and our training and operational requirements. And Members are right, we do enlist a large number. And it is not possible for enlistees to be assigned their preferred enlistment date, regardless of whether they are studying in Singapore or overseas. All pre-enlistees have to wait for their turn for enlistment which takes place every quarter, and the wait-time will vary, depending on the intake they are scheduled for. Ms Jessica Tan and Mr Viswa Sadasivan also asked if MINDEF can be flexible in granting NSmen deferments from their In-Camp Training (ICT), to minimise disruption to their work and studies. NSmen from the same unit are called back for ICT at the same time. And the reason is simple, this is to enable them to train as a cohesive unit so that the unit can remain operationally ready. And that is the key priority. Nevertheless, MINDEF will help our NSmen balance their work and academic commitments with their NS obligations, where it is possible to do so. For NSmen studying in NUS, NTU and SMU, we schedule their ICT call-ups during their academic vacation period. This is possible because a sizeable pool of our NSmen who are pursuing full-time studies are in these universities, and they share a common vacation period.”
“As Ms Jessica Tan and Mr Viswa Sadasivan have pointed out, some people will have to defer educational pursuits, work or even reduced their income. So that critical need for national security and our survival is the only basis upon which we will impose NS. From time to time, there have been calls to extend NS beyond this remit, to fulfil laudable social objectives. And I am referring to Mr Palmer's and Mr Seah Kian Peng's suggestion that NS should be for new citizens, those beyond the NS call-up age, so that they can better fulfil their role as responsible citizens. 2.45 pm I am not in any doubt that this is a laudable social goal, but it is an inadequate reason for us to impose NS to beyond that remit of critical national security and survival. Even though these social goals are laudable, they do not meet the critical need to impose National Service. However, other agencies do have existing programmes to integrate new citizens to help them better understand the importance of national defence. For instance, the People's Association organises visits for new citizens to the Army Museum. And MINDEF also organises visits for new citizens to the Basic Military Training Centre in Pulau Tekong. The second fundamental principle of our NS is universality. All young Singaporean males who are fit to serve are conscripted. And this is easy to understand. If we have a system in which some are conscripted but others are not, there will be strong feelings of unfairness, which will undermine the commitment of our National Servicemen. This is a true test, not just maintaining their goodwill, but not undermining the commitment, because you have not been universal or fair. And the third fundamental principle of our NS is equity.”
“MINDEF will continue to work with the schools to further improve the physical standards of our pre-enlistees. Dr Lam Pin Min asked whether the Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) continues to remain relevant. It has been around for a long time and many of us remember it. The key attributes they test for are muscular strength and endurance of the upper and lower body, co-ordination, speed, agility and cardiovascular fitness. Despite modern technology, is it still relevant? We think so – it is as good a test as any. But there was a more important part which I thought he and Mr Palmer raised. It was whether in this process of the 3G transformation – indeed as they rightly pointed out, where we leverage on technology – what is the requirement? And I would say that it in no way reduces the physical fitness attributes required of our soldiers. We talked about Afghanistan, very rugged terrain. I have not been there, Deputy Prime Minister Teo went there. It is renowned for the ruggedness of the terrain. Conditions of terrain, and the tempo of operations will continue to demand a high fitness state for our soldiers in the execution of their combat tasks. Mr Chairman, Ms Jessica Tan and Mr Viswa Sadasivan asked about MINDEF's policies on NS enlistment and deferment. There are clear, fundamental principles upon which these policies are based. First, NS must be for meeting a critical national need, and that critical need is our national security and our survival. We have specifically narrowed the scope because we know that it imposes considerable costs both to the individual and to the nation And we acknowledge that.”
“And the aim is a simple one – to improve the fitness of our PTP recruits so that they can reach a level comparable to their direct-BMT peers at the point of entry because we found that four weeks were insufficient. Even after four weeks, there were some still lagging behind those who have gone direct, so we added another four weeks. And this has been implemented since December 2009. Another change is the recently announced new 19-week BMT for obese recruits. The rationale is the same. Studies of previous cohorts have shown that they needed this extra time. This gives extra time for our obese recruits to improve their fitness levels and achieve better weight loss. Other refinements are the programmes for PES E and PES C recruits which are now four and nine weeks respectively. These will provide the necessary training to prepare them for deployment in Combat Service Support vocations after BMT. Basically and overall, these refinements ensure that our recruits are committed, confident and ready to take on the next stage of their NS after they pass out of BMT. I should add that the overall duration of the full-time NS remains unchanged at two years. Let me now move on to the topic of physical fitness among NS-liable students. This was a point raised by Mr Michael Palmer. MINDEF works closely with our junior colleges, polytechnics and the Institute of Technical Education (ITEs) and they want to encourage their students to achieve a high standard of physical fitness. He asked what percent of PES A and B enlistees achieved a Gold or Silver in the National Physical Fitness Award. 50% do. Such enlistees qualify for a two-month reduction from the NS duration of two years.”
“His first was in 2005 where he had an award to pursue a diploma in Mechanical Engineering at Ngee Ann Polytechnic. This was an oldish guy, he went to the Polytechnic – I met him after the ceremony – and he did very well. He graduated with a 4.0 GPA, which means a perfect score, earning him a place on the Dean's List. Last year, Vijaikumar did the SAF proud again when he became the first overseas candidate to top the US Non-Commissioned Officers course in Hawaii. Sir, Mr Michael Palmer and Dr Fatimah Lateef asked about the broader training philosophy behind Basic Military Training (BMT). I know many of us have gone through the BMT but let me just reiterate that is a critical part of our military training system. It engages recruits at the physical, intellectual and emotional levels. It prepares them physically for the next phase of their NS. It equips them with the professional knowledge to move on to more advanced military and vocational training. Just as important, it helps prepare them emotionally, for their overall well-being, to give them a sense of purpose and a positive identification with what NS stands for. These objectives continue to underpin our approach to BMT, even as we refine certain programmes. As Members have pointed out, both Mr Palmer and Dr Fatimah, the majority of our recruits are graded with a Physical Employment Status (PES) of A or B. There is no change to their nine-week BMT course. There was an extension to the Physical Training Phase (PTP) from four weeks to eight weeks which I had announced in this House last year.”
“In particular, the option of a longer career in the SAF allows them to further deepen their expertise as leaders and commanders. Sir, the SAF has started new programmes which provide opportunities for our servicemen to take the initiative to upgrade, so that they can better meet the complex demands of the 3rd Generation SAF while fulfilling their personal aspirations. A year ago in this House, I spoke about the new partnerships that the SAF has formed with local universities to support our Continuing Education programmes. Under these partnerships, relevant modules within SAF courses – some Members are familiar with the Command and Staff Course, for example – can be accredited and counted towards degrees awarded by NTU or UniSIM. I am pleased to report that to date, about 60% of last year's Command and Staff Course graduates have applied for this programme. Warrant Officers and Specialists alike have also shown a keen interest in continual learning and skills upgrading. Dr Maliki and Mr Michael Palmer asked about these aspects. Since the SAF's tie-up with UniSIM last February, the enrolment of Warrant Officers and Specialists in UniSIM degree programmes has increased by almost 30%. At a Continuing Education Awards Ceremony in January, we awarded sponsorships for degrees, diplomas and certificate level studies at various local institutions to 152 Warrant Officers and Specialists. Let me just give Members one example, how this is affecting people on the ground. 2WO Vijaikumar – he works in the Air Force as a Warrant Officer – I presented an award to him at that ceremony. In fact, this is his second Continuing Education Award, this time in the pursuit of a full-time degree course.”
“And Members will remember that during the debate on the SAF (Amendment) Bill in November last year, Deputy Prime Minister Teo explained the rationale behind the new Military Domain Experts Scheme (MDES), the Enhanced Warrant Officers Scheme and the Enhanced Officers Scheme. Let me provide an update to Parliament, but first, let me say that the response in general has been positive. The take-up rate of the current personnel eligible for conversion to MDES was high at 95%. One of our in-service personnel who will be converting to MDES is Lieutenant-Colonel Goh Nai Chuan, a branch head in the Navy. He said, "The MDES Scheme means that I can develop greater in-depth knowledge in my field of professional interest – logistics and supply systems – impart my experience and knowledge to the younger generation, and serve the SAF better." The initial response from the public to recruitment is also encouraging with entry-level recruitment at the Military Expert1 (ME1) level increasing by 10% in the period April to December 2009, compared to recruitment in the same period in 2008. The Enhanced Warrant Officers Scheme and the Enhanced Officers Scheme have also been well-received. SAF Warrant Officers and Specialists (WOSpecs) have welcomed the expanded roles and responsibilities, as well as the opportunities for professional development under the Scheme. Let me give one example – Staff Sergeant Warner Poh is an Army Specialist, who says that the new 3rd Warrant Officer rank "signifies the Army's trust in the abilities of WOSpecs to take up heavier job responsibilities earlier in [their] careers." SAF Officers have also welcomed the Enhanced Officers Scheme.”
“Sir, the ability to defend Singapore forms the basis of our existence as an independent nation. It is for this reason that we have invested steadily in defence, and are continuing to build a 3rd Generation SAF capable of safeguarding our sovereignty and vital interests for many years to come. The effectiveness of the SAF depends ultimately on our men and women, both in-service personnel and National Servicemen. At the same time, our defence also rests on the resolve and determination of all Singaporeans to defend what is ours and our support for the men and women in uniform. Dr Ng will now elaborate on our human resource, National Service, and training initiatives to bring out the best in our people. Prof. Koo will later elaborate on our wider public engagement initiatives to enhance Singaporeans' commitment to defence. The Second Minister for Defence (Dr Ng Eng Hen): Mr Chairman, before I address Members' specific comments, I echo Deputy Prime Minister Teo's appreciation to Members of this House for their continuing support for our defence efforts. Sir, Dr Maliki Osman and Mr Michael Palmer asked for an update on the SAF's 3G transformation, in particular its impact on human resource, their deployment and their productivity. And indeed as they have projected, our changes and our additions of platforms and the different ways we do things have had an impact. We require each SAF serviceman to take on added responsibilities and acquire new skill sets to respond adequately to a wider spectrum of threats. Deputy Prime Minister Teo said that we have undergone a fundamental review of our human resource constructs to meet these challenges.”
“It worked towards developing a man-portable mini tactical UAV called the Skyblade whose primary mission is to support Army battalion operations. These UAVs provide the battalion with real-time video images of its area of operations, including those areas on the "other side of the hill", which you cannot see by direct observation. Development of such mini-UAVs was technically very challenging as all the sub-systems had to be small and light-weight, yet robust and reliable. DSO engineers had to work on a design, within a very tight budget, that would include optical devices with sufficient resolution, pointing accuracy and stabilisation so that it can deliver clear video imagery. A miniaturised communications data-link had to be incorporated to transmit the video back in real time to the users. The mini-UAV also needed a good engine and a high-capacity battery pack for meaningful mission time and range, and a non-trivial problem, it had to be robust enough to survive repeated take-offs and landings in the field in very rough conditions. After extensive trials and evolution, the design was refined and transferred to ST Engineering to produce the Skyblade III. ST Engineering then developed the production model successfully, and these UAVs are now being fielded in the Army. Following this success, R&D on UAVs is continuing with the development of a 60 kg class of tactical UAV called Skyblade IV, for use at the brigade level. Research is also ongoing with industry partners to develop unmanned underwater vehicles for underwater surveillance and mine counter-measures, and we are also looking at ground robots. These programmes illustrate the pay-offs from the investments into DSO's R&D capabilities which are a key part of the SAF's 3rd Generation transformation.”
“The SAF’s new career schemes will allow the SAF to attract, retain and groom people with the right values, motivation and abilities to deal with current and future security challenges. Dr Ng will elaborate on these initiatives when he speaks. Dr Maliki Osman and Dr Lam Pin Min asked about defence spending. Building effective defence capabilities takes many years. The transformation of the SAF has been possible, because of our steady and prudent long-term approach to defence spending over the years. The Government's policy on defence spending and the defence budget remains the same. The SAF will continue to build its capability in a systematic, prudent and disciplined fashion – selectively adding important new capabilities, through the most cost-effective solutions; extending the lifespan of our current equipment by maintaining them well and upgrading where possible; and investing in networks and technologies to serve as force multipliers. Dr Lam asked about defence R&D. We invest about 4% of our defence budget on R&D. This is a necessary and important investment as the technologies we need may not be available on the open market or those which are available may not fulfil our requirements. We have reaped healthy returns from this investment. 2.30 pm Our R&D efforts have led to the successful indigenous development of advanced systems such as the Pegasus Lightweight Howitzer, the Bronco All-Terrain Tracked Carrier and the command and control systems of our frigates. These have received widespread publicity and attracted the notice of professionals, both locally and internationally over the last year. Our R&D efforts in the airborne area have also paid off. The Defence Science Organisation (DSO) started R&D into Unmanned Aerial Vehicles about a decade ago.”
“Let me give Members one example. The SAF's High-Readiness Core comprises units on a heightened readiness posture. They are fully manned and equipped to meet operational contingencies, that may occur with little or no warning. These units are structured into integrated Task Forces, that can draw from forces from all three Services. This reflects the cross-service and inter-agency approach we are taking to address the cross-domain nature of today's security challenges. The Island Defence Task Force carries out peacetime security operations such as the protection of key installations – Jurong Island, Changi Airport. As I mentioned earlier, the Maritime Security Task Force works to protect Singapore against maritime threats, and the Special Operations Task Force provides the SAF with an expanded capacity to carry out counter-terrorism and other contingency operations. Where operationally relevant, the Task Forces also work closely with Homefront and other Government agencies like the Maritime and Port Authority and Singapore Customs to keep Singapore safe. These organisational changes have given us a strengthened capability to respond to more sophisticated security threats to Singapore. Sir, the third building block of the 3rd Generation SAF is developing our people. We recognise that our people are the key resource that will enable us to realise our transformation efforts. This means we have to attract and retain the best people, which Dr Maliki Osman asked about. It is with this in mind that the SAF conducted a fundamental review of the SAF career schemes to better match the increasingly complex demands of the 3rd Generation SAF with the needs and aspirations of our servicemen.”
“The Air Force’s new Gulfstream Airborne Early Warning aircraft, with its extended detection range, allows the SAF to detect and track aerial targets at greater distances. This provides the whole SAF with more response times to deal with aerial threats and enhances the robustness of our networked air defence system. In November last year, I visited Exercise Forging Sabre in the United States, one of a series of exercises to validate the SAF's integrated strike capabilities. Networked command centres relayed real-time information from "sensors", such as our Commando forces and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, to "shooters" such as F-16 fighter aircraft, Apache helicopters and our artillery rocket systems. The result is an enhanced ability to rapidly bring to bear precision firepower from various SAF strike platforms in an integrated way upon targets in the battlefield. Let me now talk about the second building block of the 3rd Generation SAF, to address Mr Palmer's question about operational readiness and also Ms Rajah and Dr Fatimah Lateef's question about restructuring to meet the complex security challenges Sir, the increasingly complex security environment has imposed heavier operational demands on the SAF. Besides its primary role of safeguarding Singapore against conventional threats, the SAF is also contributing to international security operations, humanitarian and disaster relief missions and providing support for homeland security operations. Last year, I updated this House that the SAF was restructuring to better respond to current and future security challenges. These organisational changes have since been implemented and have made the SAF more flexible and responsive. This is the second building block of the 3rd Generation SAF.”
“Second, re-organising the SAF into new operational command structures to deal with an expanded spectrum of operations, at home and overseas. And, third, developing our people through new and enhanced career schemes as well as revising training and curriculum, so that we have capable and committed people to meet the requirements of the 3rd Generation SAF. Sir, let me elaborate on the transformation of the SAF into an advanced, networked force. The most visible part of this transformation is the progressive introduction of newer and more capable systems into the SAF which I think some Members are familiar with. Less visible but just as important is the integration of land, maritime and air forces into a network-centric force that can seamlessly tap on each Service's capabilities. Let me elaborate. The Navy's new frigates are able to dominate a larger sea area, a much larger sea area, than the 1970s-era missile gunboats which they replaced. They have Sikorsky S-70B naval helicopters, which further adds to the frigates' ability to undertake anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare missions at longer ranges. Each frigate's sophisticated command, control and communications suite thus allows it to network with a wide variety of SAF assets, including air-borne sensors and land-based sensors. This increases force-level awareness and mission effectiveness. The Army's Terrex combat vehicles which are now coming into service are also equipped with a Battlefield Management System. This allows each vehicle to network with other parts of the SAF, and bring to bear firepower from land and air platforms, such as our new High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System and Apache helicopters.”
“We also continue to deploy construction engineering teams in Bamiyan province. We have also informed our coalition partners that we are prepared to deploy a KC-135 aerial refuelling tanker and an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Task Group to Afghanistan. Here at home, the SAF continues to work closely with the homefront agencies to defend against increasingly sophisticated terror threats against Singapore. I will elaborate further when I speak about how the SAF is restructuring to meet more complex security challenges. Sir, every international deployment that the SAF undertakes is carefully considered. Such deployments do involve risks to our servicemen, which can be significant. However, where there is real and important work to be done, there will be attendant risks. Therefore, we must make sure that our servicemen are well equipped and trained, and receive additional training specific to their mission and area of operation. Sir, even as we contribute to international and regional security, the primary mission of the SAF remains to deter any threats, and to defend Singapore. I reported to this House in March 2004 that the SAF had embarked on a transformation journey to ensure that it meets current and future operational requirements. Mr Michael Palmer, Dr Maliki, Dr Teo and Dr Lam Pin Min asked about the SAF's transformation and build-up plans. The key building blocks of the 3rd Generation SAF are now in place. While there is still work to be done, we now have a firm foundation for the continued development of the 3rd Generation SAF. Three building blocks form the foundation of the 3rd Generation SAF. First, acquiring new equipment and building new units to transform the SAF into an advanced, networked force.”
“As a signal of our continued commitment to this international effort, Singapore has decided to deploy a second Task Group comprising a Landing Ship Tank with two Super Pumas from June to October this year, as well as a Maritime Patrol Aircraft from December 2010 to February 2011. Sir, another key security challenge confronting us is terrorism, something which Ms Ellen Lee and Dr Lily Neo raised. Mr Sin and Dr Lam also asked about our deployments for international security operations. Terrorism remains a persistent threat to all nations, and cannot be resolved by just any one nation acting on its own. Afghanistan remains a key arena for the international effort against terrorism. In December last year, the US announced the new Afghan strategy, ordering the deployment of 30,000 more US troops to Afghanistan. We support the US’ continued commitment in Afghanistan. This will help stabilise the country and prevent extremists from again using Afghanistan to export terrorism to rest of the world, including our own region, with direct implications for our security. We are committed to contributing, within our means and in a useful way, to the multinational efforts in Afghanistan. We currently have a Weapon Locating Radar detachment and a medical team deployed in Oruzgan province. In April this year, following the completion of our medical team's deployment, we will deploy a surgical team to Oruzgan for the first time. I had the opportunity to visit our soldiers in Afghanistan last November and saw first-hand the contributions of our personnel. The feedback I received from the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) commanders showed that our deployments are making a valued contribution towards the stabilisation and reconstruction efforts.”
“The IFC has been purpose-built as a maritime security hub to collate and analyse information shared among an international network of partners, to facilitate timely and effective responses to maritime threats. Thus far, six countries, including countries as far away as France, have stationed liaison officers at the IFC. We expect more countries to do so in the coming months. Beyond our region, piracy in the Gulf of Aden, which is a key shipping lane, remains an international concern. While the SAF’s focus continues to be the security of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, we are also playing our part in the Gulf of Aden. This is because we recognise that it is not possible for any one country to protect its own shipping in all the world’s key sea lanes. All countries therefore have to depend on cooperative efforts to secure the sea lanes for everyone’s use. From April to July last year, we deployed a Task Group comprising a Landing Ship Tank and two Super Puma helicopters to contribute to the counter-piracy efforts. The Task Group worked within the framework of the multinational Combined Task Force 151 (CTF 151) to enhance the security of ships transiting through the Gulf of Aden. We remain committed to these counter-piracy efforts. As I speak, a senior Singaporean naval officer – supported by an SAF command team – is in command of CTF 151. We had accepted the invitation by the Combined Maritime Forces HQ to assume command of CTF 151 for a period of three months, from mid-January to mid-April this year. This invitation illustrates the high regard in which other armed forces hold the SAF.”
“Allow me to elaborate on two challenges – maritime security and terrorism. By endangering the freedom of navigation and the safety of international shipping, threats to maritime security such as piracy and maritime terrorism can impact the global economy and international security. As a maritime nation, such threats are of utmost concern to Singapore. Many Members have read in the newspapers today that our Navy had received information on possible terror threats against vessels in the Malacca Strait. The Navy has stepped up the frequency of patrols in our waters. Commercial ships are also encouraged to take proactive security measures in the meantime. The relevant Singapore agencies have also been working closely with our regional partners to address this potential risk. The Maritime Security Task Force has also been coordinating a whole-of-Government response with the relevant Singapore agencies, such as the Police Coast Guard and Maritime and Port Authority, to step up measures to address this potential threat. As this issue illustrates, threats to maritime security continue to be real and immediate. Countering this threat requires a coordinated effort – by governments acting alone and also in cooperation with one another. In our immediate region, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand have been conducting coordinated patrols to enhance the security of the Malacca Strait. 2.15 pm In addition to such operational arrangements, it is important to improve information sharing for the early detection of maritime threats and to coordinate responses. To this end, Singapore has established an Information Fusion Centre (IFC) at the Changi Command and Control Centre.”
“Our naval helicopters are currently undergoing integration training in San Diego together with one of our frigates. One indication of the many exchanges we have is this morning, again, I received a call from the Commander of the US Pacific fleet who is here on a visit. We have also strengthened our defence relationship with China, holding the first bilateral training exercise between Singapore and China last June. This was a joint training exercise focused on the conduct of security operations for major events, in which the Chinese forces have a lot of experience in after the Beijing Olympics. The training exercise provided a platform for developing mutual understanding between both armed forces. With India, our relations continue to develop very productively with all the three Services conducting exercises together with their counterparts in India. Singapore has also deepened our defence relations with other key regional partners. We signed bilateral defence cooperation agreements with Japan, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand and Vietnam last year. These agreements reflect the commitment of the parties to further cooperate in bilateral areas of mutual interest. With Australia, we renewed the Shoalwater Bay Training Area Memorandum of Agreement, which allows the SAF to train at Shoalwater Bay for another 10 years. Sir, Singapore is very grateful to our friends for their support for the SAF's overseas training, an issue which Mr Michael Palmer asked about. Today, the SAF trains in about a dozen countries around the world, which has enabled us to overcome our land and airspace constraints and to address the SAF's training needs. Dr Teo Ho Pin and Mr Sin Boon Ann asked about the security challenges confronting us. Indeed these challenges are varied, complex and fluid.”
“He and our Chief of Air Force are discussing initiatives to increase exchanges and interactions between our two air forces. All these interactions have further enhanced our friendly bilateral defence ties with Malaysia. There are regular and wide-ranging interactions between the SAF and the Indonesian National Defence Forces. These include longstanding exercises between our two armies, air forces and navies, as well as bilateral meetings, the cross-attendance of courses and other professional exchanges. The two armed forces also cooperate closely in maritime patrols and maritime information sharing. As this House is aware, after the South Sumatra earthquake last September, the SAF sent medical and engineering teams to assist in the relief efforts. We are also working with the Indonesian defence establishment to explore opportunities to expand cooperation for mutual benefit. With Brunei and Thailand, and increasingly with Vietnam, we also enjoy especially close defence relations. Besides our neighbours, we have similarly built up our defence ties with key players in the Asia-Pacific. The US remains one of our strongest and closest defence partners. We continue to welcome a strong US presence in our region, which provides an important stabilising influence. US forces visit Changi Naval Base and Paya Lebar Air Base regularly, and we conduct high-end professional exercises with them. Since the conclusion of the Strategic Framework Agreement in 2005, professional exchanges between the US and Singapore armed forces have expanded. Last year, we inaugurated Peace Carvin V, our F-15SG detachment in Mountain Home, Idaho. The detachment joins our existing F-16, Chinook and Apache training detachments in the US.”
“The ADMM has also made significant headway in evolving the ADMM-Plus, which facilitates ASEAN's defence engagement with our partners in the larger Asia-Pacific region at the ministerial level. Vietnam, which is the chair of ASEAN in 2010, will take the ADMM-Plus process forward later this year. The Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) that is held in Singapore annually, and attended by 27 countries in 2009, has also grown from strength to strength. The ninth SLD will be held in June this year. The SLD remains the only defence forum in Asia that brings together Ministers, senior officials, industry leaders and academics for a frank exchange of views on defence and security issues, which will help to create mutual understanding and shared norms. Sir, our multilateral engagements are supported by an extensive web of bilateral defence relations, which Ms Indranee Rajah asked about. Our defence ties with Malaysia and Indonesia are important and longstanding. The SAF and Malaysian Armed Forces engage in regular interactions, including bilateral exercises, high-level visits and professional exchanges. Both armed forces also collaborate closely in the Malacca Strait Patrols and the Five Power Defence Arrangements. At Malaysia's invitation, two F-16 fighters and two Apache helicopters from the RSAF participated in the flying display at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace exhibition last year. Senior Malaysian defence officials also attended the Singapore Airshow this year. When Defence Minister Zahid Hamidi and I met on the sidelines of the Singapore Airshow, we both agreed to expand our bilateral defence exchanges and interactions. As an example, I met General Rodzali, the RMAF Chief who is here on a visit this morning.”
“While there have been strains in the US-China relationship in recent weeks, both countries clearly see it in their interest to have stable and cooperative relations in the long term. In the joint statement released during President Obama's visit to China last November, both sides recognised they have, I quote, "an increasingly broad base of cooperation and share increasingly important common responsibilities". On our part, we do hope that the US and China will maintain a positive and cooperative relationship as this is critical to maintaining regional stability, which provides the foundation for economic development and prosperity. Dr Teo Ho Pin asked about our response to the increased strategic competition amongst the major powers. An open regional security architecture plays an important role in sustaining long-term regional peace and stability by encouraging countries to engage constructively. As new patterns of strategic relations are formed, the regional security architecture must continue to develop apace. This will facilitate the peaceful rise of emerging powers, promote responsible norms of international behaviour and manage potential flashpoints. Ms Indranee Rajah and Mr Sin Boon Ann asked about MINDEF's role in strengthening the regional security architecture. Sir, in the past year, the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) is one area where ASEAN countries have focused our efforts. The ADMM has moved in the direction of practical cooperation. For instance, we reached agreement on cooperation in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, an important non-traditional security issue.”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, I would like to thank the hon. Members for their comments and questions, and also for their continued commitment to Singapore's defence and security. Sir, Mr Michael Palmer, Dr Teo Ho Pin and Mr Sin Boon Ann asked for our assessment of the regional security environment. The strategic realignments that began before the economic crisis have continued apace. Asian economies have weathered the crisis relatively well, especially so for India and China. While the US will continue to be pre-eminent over the next few decades, in economic, military and technological terms, the balance of global economic weight has shifted eastwards. The strategic weight of Asian powers, particularly China and India, will grow. These two countries will become more confident and will want to play a greater role in global and regional affairs. As their economic ties with our region strengthen, they would also have a greater stake in regional peace and stability. Indeed, both these countries are actively engaging countries in the Asia-Pacific, both bilaterally and multilaterally. These are positive developments. Within our region, countries such as Vietnam, along with Indonesia, will play a larger role in the years to come as they continue with their restructuring and modernisation. In the coming decades, therefore, the Asia-Pacific will inevitably become the strategic area of focus for the major powers. South-east Asia, with its strategic sea-lanes, resources and markets, sits at the centre of the region and is the arena where their interests intersect. The key question, of course, is how the US-China relationship will develop in the coming years.”
“In 2009, 85% of the 820 public officers who retired at the age of 62 years old were offered re-employment. Of those offered re-employment, 540 officers or 77% accepted the offers. About nine in 10 of the officers re-employed at 62 years old and above were re-employed on a full-time basis. Eight in 10 were re-employed at the same job level. Re-employment contracts are generally one-year contracts, renewable up to the age of 65 years. Last year, more than 2,500 public officers attended pre-retirement preparatory courses conducted by the Civil Service College. Public sector agencies have also put in place various upgrading and re-skilling initiatives to prepare employees to take up jobs other than their current work. Elderly care”
“Mr Chairman, Sir, first of all, I would like to thank Mdm Halimah for her interest in the public service. The public sector has been transforming at the individual, organisational and whole-of-government levels to support the growth of a knowledge-intensive, innovative and entrepreneurial economy. The Public Service for the 21st century (PS21) movement which was launched in 1995 operates at all three levels. At the individual level, the Public Service emphasises training to upgrade our officers' skills as well as impart positive attitudes towards change. Senior officers are trained and encouraged to create a conducive environment to generate new ideas and to encourage public officers to examine their work processes and make changes. WITs is one of those systems which, when well-implemented with good leadership, is effective. The ideas which emerge may not be big ideas but collectively, they foster innovation, continuous improvement and learning. At organisational level, many of our public agencies strive for and have attained best-in-class organisational practices and benchmarks, including the Singapore Quality Class certification and the People Developer standard. At the whole-of-government level, the public sector has cross-agency platforms like the SMART Regulation Committee that focuses on improving the operating environment for businesses. The ease with which a company can be registered or individuals can file their tax returns is now well-known. The simplification of factory registration requirements by the Ministry of Manpower is another good example. To maintain and strengthen the Public Sector's productivity drive, I have asked the Head of Civil Service to personally oversee this task. Let me now address the re-employment of older workers in the public sector.”
“On Saturday, while I was reflecting by my pond over how I can value-add to this debate, I was staring at the pond and the base of my pond moved. I had a shock of my life. It was my catfish – I thought they were dead! But two little catfish, which were maybe two inches long, have now grown to about eight inches. I was so pleased. So I looked to my undergraduates and asked, "What is the moral of the story?" And they said, "We are the catfish?" I said, "No. You don't even work! You are the kois. You will give us problems when it comes to getting you married and having kids." The catfish represent the Singapore workforce. So the pond was a conducive environment. We introduced different kinds of fish that also motivated me to get the pond going, measure the water, make sure that it was a happening place and, meanwhile, silently, but reliably, my little catfish grew, cleaning the pond, working really hard and flourishing because the environment was conducive. 5.43 pm”
“I look forward to the able leadership of Minister Teo Chee Hean in the new Council and I encourage fellow Singaporeans to embrace this new phase of our development. We must step forward, take ownership of our jobs and be proactive in contributing our inputs on what we need to help ourselves increase our productivity. This morning, I had the privilege of being with my undergraduate freshmen class – my students. I told them that I had prepared the Budget speech over the weekend and for inspiration, I had reflected by my pond. I shared with them the story of my pond. Four years ago, we moved into Glentrees Condominium and there is this little pond. So my indigenous fish population was two small catfish and nine kois. Over the four years, I think the catfish died – I never saw them again – but the kois were beautiful. They grew, they were so colourful and they cleaned the pond, but they never procreate. I was interested in breeding fish. I watched and watched for four years, nothing I did helped. Maybe I just do not know enough. So I got bored and lost interest in my pond. When I went to Ghim Moh market, I found that they sold cheap fish – three packets for $5. So, I gathered three packets. Two were red fish – I do not know what they are – and guppies. I released them into my pond. That was fantastic – it added colour and vibrancy to my pond and they breed, the guppies especially. I had little guppies – they were wonderful. So I started to do a lot more to my pond. I bought plants, protected the guppies and created an environment that was conducive to growing all the fish. And all of us would go up there each evening to just enjoy the variety of fish swimming up and down.”
“One way we can do this to provide time-off from work for Singaporeans to take care of their dependants. We have in place childcare leave for parents of young children. As our population ages, I believe that it is timely that we should broaden that to include leave for eldercare. While ensuring a sustained level of productivity in the economy is important, it is equally important, if not more important, that we uphold productivity in the family. Family time is not surplus work time. It is time to nurture marital bonds and inter-generational relationships. We are at an all-time low TFR of 1.23. This is also the Year of the Tiger, which some perceive as not so auspicious for having children. More importantly, there is still uncertainty with regard to the economy. Now, more than ever, we need to assure Singaporeans that growing families and nurturing family ties is important. And that they will not have to suffer personal costs when they favour a sensible balance in their work and family life balance. For if family ties are not secure, there will be few who will benefit from the enhanced parent and grandparent relief that is one of the bright sparks for me in the Budget. As I rise in support of this Budget, I note the critical role of the new Productivity and Continuing Education Council. As we navigate through the demands of our new economy, the challenge is in how we define and recognise productivity. I think the key lies in how we conceptualise labour. It cannot be viewed simply as a commodity and manpower cannot be dissected simplistically into hours of labour. I believe we are able to rise to our potential and maximise output only when we are able to claim ownership of our jobs and we find satisfaction in the way we conduct our work.”
“We must recognise that Singaporeans may have varying social obligations in the family, and in this climate where work demands dominate, I will appreciate assurance from the Minister that there is a place for supplementary wage earners in a transformed economy. Mature workers and workers with care-giving responsibilities may be able to only work part-time. With an ageing population, this pool of workers will likely increase. We must ensure that these Singaporeans are not perceived of as liabilities in the workplace and that part-time workers continue to receive opportunities to upgrade their skills, receive a fair wage for their labour and sufficient benefits in kind. One way to facilitate a satisfactory marrying of paid work and home work is to allow employees the flexibility in where and when they can conduct their work. Wherever possible, we should encourage organisations to embrace a flexi-schedule and make flexi-work options available. My second concern, Madam, relates to how we position the family in Singapore. In all that we do, we must reiterate the importance of family. The Budget is a powerful ideological statement. It sends strong messages of what constitutes core concerns for our nation. I would like to see noted in a progressive Budget the sacredness of family time, and how family time must never be treated irreverently as surplus work time. Every time we expect our workers to stay beyond office hours, we must be mindful that there is a gap in his or her family. We must accord due respect to family work, especially the important work of care givers. We must, as a nation, set the norms that support Singaporeans who embrace the social and moral responsibility to care for their family members.”
“We certainly do not want to send our workers to training for the sake of fulfilling the call to train. We must be able to validate that every training session adds value to the way we do our work. How will we ensure that this call to work smarter will not be operationalised as working longer hours by ignorant managers? This, I think, we have to really seriously watch. The Singapore worker is already clocking maximum hours at work. The only way we can be more productive is if employers are willing to invest in training and infrastructure. But when push comes to shove, employers may resort to squeezing even more out of each worker without first investing in improving their skills. I am especially concerned for those employed in smaller enterprises which are highly dependent currently on foreign workers. Will they be able to downsize their labour force and concurrently upgrade existing labour while watching closely their profit margin? What is the recourse for employees when demands from the workplace clearly disadvantage them and make it difficult for them to carry out their responsibilities in their families? In these challenging and exciting times of transformation at the workplace, may I suggest that we track work hours systematically and that we track informal overtime work as well because I think this is the culprit that locks us in the office. One key thrust recommendation of the ESC is to make Singapore an attractive global city and an endearing home. We can only be such a city if we have a good work-life balance in our everyday life.”
“We take away another two hours for basic necessities – nutrition, cleaning, personal grooming, etc – and that would be 13 hours. Let us say that we sleep eight hours, as prescribed by the physicians, you add that up together, that is 21 hours. That leaves us a miserable three hours to find your soul mate, to nurture relationship, to procreate and to nurse the baby. The average number of hours we work is higher than that of many other nations, including Japan and South Korea. So this call for productivity. To work smarter is indeed timely because I look forward to when we can increase productivity so that Singaporean workers can cut back on paid work so that they can focus on family which is just as important. Madam, my main concerns on Budget 2010 relate to the implications on how we do family in Singapore. Broadly, they cover two key areas: how we can achieve a sensible work-life balance and the place of family in our value system. I will address concerns relating to achieving a sensible work-life balance first. As we heed the call to improve productivity at the workplace, across all sectors, how can we ensure that productivity is understood and measured accurately, especially in service industries and where cognitive processes are involved? I think that is rather tricky. Will middle-managers and supervisors be sufficiently trained themselves to recognise quality output of their supervisees? I think all of us in this House agree that, in principle, the ideology set out in the Budget and the ESC Report is sound and we stand solidly by it. I think the trick now is how do we operationalise it so that it filters down accurately through the workforce. How will training programmes be validated?”