Teo Siong Seng
Singapore
“I thank the Senior Minister of State for the reply. The point is about us being a WTO member and having to comply with fair bidding. However, we also hear that construction companies are coming from developed countries; in fact, they are coming here to bid at very low prices, and yet it is very hard for our companies to bid for contracts…”
“Perhaps, a similar programme could be started to help displaced and mature PMEs find relevant jobs in SMEs. In addition, we noted that WDA, through the Professional Conversion Programme and Max Talent, has made an effort to help retrenched PMEs in reskilling themselves for the possibility of finding new careers in selected industries and…”
“With the development of global norms and guidelines on responsible business conduct, such as the UN Global Compact and ISO 26000 Guidance Standard, CSR – if not appropriately managed – could, in time, operate as a non-tariff trade impediment and eat into Singapore's export competitiveness.”
“I thank the Minister of State Mr Teo Ser Luck for the clarification, and for the handbook printed. We will try and read it. Mr Teo had clarified that to apply for any PIC scheme, a company can have fewer than three CPF-paying accounts. My understanding is that there must at least be three.”
“The Government should help them to improve and upgrade, provide the small business owners and small factories with a sustainable business environment, attract younger people to join them, and enable them to apply new visions and methods to improve the productivity of these companies.”
“On this note, while we welcome JTC's new data collecting function, I would like to urge that JTC and URA continue to work closely so that the land use needs of our companies, especially our SMEs, will be sufficiently taken into due consideration in our national land use plan. With that, I support the Bill. 5.20 pm Page: 85”
The complete record
Every one of 170 lines we hold for Teo Siong Seng, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 1 of 4.
“Therefore, businesses may prefer to have the flexibility of deciding whether they wish to adopt the proposed Portable Medical Benefits Scheme. Meanwhile, the business community would welcome any Government financial assistance to help incentivise and facilitate them to make the switch, if they are interested to do so. With better coverage and benefits, there is, however, the tendency for people to over-consume healthcare services, which are becoming more costly over time. Everyone should take personal responsibility for their own health and reduce over-consumption of healthcare services, so that overall healthcare cost can be controlled. On this front, businesses can help to ease rising healthcare costs by promoting a healthier lifestyle. Businesses can help to further promote and embrace work-life balance at the workplace, including planning for healthy activities for their workers. Another practical activity businesses can consider is to organise health screenings for their workers. Early detection of health issues can keep healthcare costs in check. In this way, the Government, businesses and individuals can all play their part to moderate the demand for healthcare services, which, in turn, can keep healthcare costs from spiralling upwards. In conclusion, I hope introducing MediShield Life would not add on to even more business costs. I hope that, going forward, it would still be a key Government priority to maintain a pro-business environment for businesses to survive and thrive. With that, I support the Motion. 5.36 pm”
“In this regard, I am happy to note that MOH has indicated that over the coming year, the Government will step up efforts to reach out to Singaporeans to help them understand this scheme, and that there are many other avenues to seek help. I am sure the Singapore Business Federation, the many Chambers and other trade associations can also help to reach out to the employers. Next, the Committee is also advocating the Portable Medical Benefits Scheme. Under a portable scheme, a company makes contributions to an employee's Medisave account. The employee then uses the funds to buy MediShield Life or an Integrated Shield Plan offered by Page: 86 a private insurer, if he wishes to have further enhanced coverage and even better benefits. As the insurance coverage is not company-centric, employees can continue to be insured and have the same benefits, even if they change jobs. With more companies and the workforce joining such a proposed scheme, it may bring down the premium rates over time. This remains to be seen. In addition, in view of the new MediShield Life, I understand that MOH has indicated that it will work with private insurers to review their existing plans. This is important, so that the two can better complement and we can optimise our spending on healthcare insurance. With more enhanced benefits provided under MediShield Life, businesses might now be driven to review their employer-provided medical benefits to minimise duplication in coverage and benefits. Businesses may still regard their own group medical benefits as more tailored to their staff profile, relatively cheaper and as part of a complete package to attract and retain talent.”
“Last Friday, the Government announced that, from January next year, most civil servants will get an extra 1% of monthly salary paid into their Medisave accounts, with those earning less getting more. This is over and above the additional 1% employers' contribution to workers' Medisave accounts announced in this year's Budget. This will invariably put more pressure on employers! We should also take note that many businesses, especially the SMEs, are currently undergoing economic restructuring and having to manage increase in wages and rentals. As it is, manpower cost is already a top cost component for many SMEs. MediShield Life will result in higher premiums which will be borne by individuals. In the first four to five years after it is launched, the Government has committed to provide subsidies so that premiums will remain affordable. This, therefore, reduces the need for workers to look towards their employers to bear the costs. However, what happens after these four to five years when the subsidies end? Will workers start to look at their employers to bear the cost instead? On a related note, the Government has been encouraging employers to re-hire older and mature workforce past their retirement age. But with older workers, healthcare costs would rise. This would be an additional cost on employers, especially the SMEs. How could the Government help to cushion this cost, if businesses are urged to re-hire older workers? Following the acceptance of the Committee's recommendations, the Government said it would now study how best to implement MediShield Life. As it is, it is not easy for many people to thoroughly understand this scheme. I am one of them!”
“Mdm Speaker, I would like to first declare that I am the Chairman of the Singapore Business Federation and the immediate past President of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The business community supports MediShield Life, as the objective is to address rising healthcare costs in the longer term in the midst of an ageing workforce. However, at the same time, our business environment needs to remain conducive, and businesses need to grow and be profitable so that they can contribute to our tax revenue. Today, businesses are already struggling with rising operating costs, including manpower, rental and various compliance costs. We must also bear in mind that any social scheme, once implemented, is very hard to reverse! [Deputy Speaker (Mr Charles Chong) in the Chair] The Government has accepted the recommendations of the MediShield Life Review Committee and will spend $4 billion over five years, to go towards subsidies and financial assistance of this new scheme. MediShield Life will be introduced by the end of next year. All Singaporeans will receive transitional subsidies for the first four years. Lower to middle income households will also receive premium subsidies. Page: 85 In the light of an ageing population and rising healthcare costs, the business community is supportive of MediShield Life, especially in helping the lower income and ageing workforce to enjoy a national health insurance scheme that comes with better benefits and coverage than the current MediShield, and at an affordable cost. Surely, businesses competing for talent must meet the rising expectations of employees. However, the Government must also take into account the ever-rising cost of doing business in Singapore.”
“Going forward, every stakeholder in the community must cooperate and work hard to improve our nation's competitiveness and build the foundation of a better and brighter Singapore for the next 50 years! 5.18 pm”
“Compared to 50 years ago, our business environment is more complex and is constantly changing. The expectations of Singaporeans are also comparatively higher. The Government must understand the needs of the business community, promote pro-business policies, let every trade and industry flourish, with workers and bosses working hard together to create more wealth; only in this way can the Government be equipped with the capability to look after the more vulnerable in our society and preserve social cohesion. Page: 76 Singapore is a small nation and there is regional instability all around us. From the number of incidents that have occurred in the region recently, we ought to reflect on the factors that have created the Singapore of today. Whatever we have achieved did not come about easily. If we were to enter into disputes baselessly and magnify the voices of disharmony, we could destroy the cohesion that has been built up with great effort over the years and lose our competitiveness. I am thus very fortunate to be given this chance to be a Nominated Member of Parliament. When we meet with problems, we find ways to look for solutions and get feedback from all sources. As long as everyone makes adjustments based on the common objective of solving problems, any problem can be resolved. This is not the first time Singapore has entered into an economic restructuring phase. The tripartite partners of workers, business and Government have worked together many times to overcome the period of restructuring. Although there are bound to be conflicts and obstacles, these have all been smoothened out eventually, and I believe this time is no exception. Now, Our Singapore Conversation has concluded and the President has outlined the Government's strategies.”
“Given the manpower shortage, our workforce would definitely include new immigrants and foreigners. This is the characteristic of an immigrant nation, as well as its advantage. My company happens to be one which employs workers of many different backgrounds, and thus I would like to discuss my sentiments here. My company's business operations have a worldwide presence; foreign talent can help the company to expand and manage its overseas operations effectively and a diversified workforce has always been our strength. In our Singapore HQ, we use work performance to justify worker's value. Internally, we have never consciously differentiated the locals from the foreigners, as everyone works together towards a common purpose. In an immigrant nation, it is necessary to have mutual understanding and accept one another's differences, so that we could work together harmoniously. Locals also need to have an inclusive approach towards new immigrants; likewise, new immigrants and foreigners also need to get used to the local culture and customs, and understand the game plan of living in a new environment. As President Tony Tan has said, "Let us treat them with graciousness, kindness and fellowship, even as we expect them to respect our values and our Singaporean way of life." In fact, the objective of leaving one's home is to pursue a better life and to make better use of one's strengths. This goal is one that local employees also aim to achieve. Next year, Singapore celebrates our Golden Jubilee and the Government has formulated many policies to acknowledge and thank the Pioneer Generation for their contributions. The greatest honour we can accord to the Pioneer Generation is to emulate their example in transforming Singapore into an even more competitive economy.”
“It is also the crucial formative period where they develop physical strength, EQ and teamwork. In recent years, Singapore's birth rate has been extremely low and the SAF also needs to change its management model, using more effective training methods to defend Singapore. There is also a need to increase productivity in the army, and we hope that the Committee, as they look into strengthening its systems, could also consider how to instil the notion of productivity into the army training curriculum, including planning, design, process flow control and so on. All along, these notions could be well understood by army officers, but going forward, we hope that these notions could be understood by every full-time National Servicemen (NSFs) and could also be personally experienced by them. The period of National Service is the ideal time to conduct intensive training and these well-trained young men, after completing their National Service, would be integrated into every trade and industry in Page: 75 the workforce and be a driving force behind the productivity of the entire workforce. Lately, the SCCCI has been actively helping SPRING Singapore to promote the "SME Talent Programme", helping SMEs to recruit graduates from polytechnics and the ITE. The current scenario is that SMEs offer many available positions, but there are very few takers. I was wondering if we could cooperate with the SAF and let those NSFs serving the last few months of National Service do internships in the SMEs. This would enable them to understand the work environment and increase the chances of rapport. When companies start to recruit staff, the selection criteria are based on whether the employee could perform and contribute to the company.”
“Currently, many industries are facing manpower shortage and many bosses have told us that, at this time, it is really difficult to send workers for training when they do not have enough workers. Having been in business for many years, I am deeply aware of the importance of worker training. Even if companies have limited manpower resources, they should still engage in worker training. Workers who upgrade themselves can then become a more valued human resource. Switching to different industries or restructuring is not that formidable. It is even more alarming to have a mindset that is resistant to change. Web technology is very advanced now and it is common to see people perpetually on their mobile phones, surfing the net and communicating through online chats. Commuters even watch drama serials on their mobile devices in the MRT. If workers could apply the same level of energy to personal upgrading and companies could use more Internet technology in their training applications, this could perhaps alleviate the pressures brought about by the labour crunch. Certainly, this method may not succeed and it depends very much on the aspiration of workers to upgrade. The larger the aspiration, the better the outcome. I look forward to the Government's efforts to build a "Smart Nation", enabling enterprises in the areas of worker training. The basic notion of productivity is in the mindset. If the foundation could be instilled at a young age, the productivity concept and quality would be fully manifested later in the working world. We have a suggestion for the Committee to Strengthen National Service. Every young man has to serve National Service and these two years are the most significant years before they enter the workforce or enter institutions of higher learning.”
“On the one hand, because of the continued emergence of new technology, traditional business models will feel the brunt; on the other hand, new opportunities, new concepts and new industries have also arisen. We appreciate the Government's support in rolling out all kinds of assistance schemes to help local enterprises face up to the challenges of economic restructuring. With the support of the Government, many SMEs have the ability to buy new equipment, improve their productivity and make adjustments to their work flow. However, some SMEs, especially the micro-enterprises, have very limited resources and capability and require a longer time to adjust to the new environment. Next, my second point is on being inclusive and upgrading. I totally agree with this part of President Tony Tan's Address: "Singapore must remain a nation of opportunities for all. Those who do not succeed at first should have a second chance, indeed, must always have the chance to try again." Some SMEs, especially the micro-enterprises and traditional businesses, have to restructure due to the changes in the environment. They are also aware of the need to restructure and are trying hard to do so. Thus, I hope that when the Government draws up its business policies, it should take greater consideration into the Page: 74 needs of SMEs, micro-enterprises and traditional businesses, giving them sufficient space, allowing them the opportunity to try again and again. I hope these SMEs, micro-enterprises and traditional businesses would not give up too easily, and I hope the Government would also not give up on them too easily! During this period of economic restructuring, workers and bosses alike are under pressure.”
“My standpoint has always been impartial and objective, steering clear of political disputes and reflecting the feedback from the society at large, in particular that of the business community, to provide a more holistic and diverse perspective on the Government's policies. The objective of doing this is to hope that every member of our society could work hard together to transform Singapore into an even more competitive economy and to pursue a better and brighter life. "Nominated Member of Parliament" – these four words do not represent a single individual, but a group of specific background. The responsibility of the Nominated Member of Parliament is to provide constructive feedback in a practical, effective and professional way. In order to perform this role well, I have used different channels, including the SCCCI, to gather feedback and requests from companies. Some companies have also approached me directly for assistance. While we are preoccupied with contacting companies for feedback, we also proactively engage and communicate with relevant Government agencies to facilitate improved cooperation between the Government and the business community. Singapore is undergoing the process of economic restructuring, and many enterprises are facing the pressures of restructuring. In the past five years, most of the problems raised by companies have revolved around escalating rental costs, manpower shortage, challenges in productivity upgrading, effectiveness of policy implementation, which all demonstrate the different pressures incurred by changes in the business environment. Actually, these problems are not only faced by our local enterprises. The global economic environment is in a state of constant change.”
“Mdm Speaker, in Mandarin, please. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mdm Speaker, fellow Members of Parliament, good afternoon! Firstly, I would like to declare that I am the Immediate Past President of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the Managing Director of Pacific International Lines. When President Tony Tan announced the Government's policy directives on 16 May, I felt most encouraged. As a representative of the business community, the subject of my speech today is "Jointly transforming Singapore into an even more competitive economy". My speech will have two key points: firstly, to reflect people's sentiments from an impartial and objective viewpoint, always putting our nation first and foremost, to help the Government formulate and promote pro-business policies; and secondly, bringing an open and inclusive attitude to encourage SMEs and workers to upgrade, accept foreigners and new immigrants, and pursue a good life for all. [Deputy Speaker (Mr Charles Chong) in the Chair] Firstly, let me talk about my first point on having an impartial and objective viewpoint. I have already served as a Nominated Member of Parliament for five years. For the role of a Nominated Member of Parliament, being an observer and a practitioner is certainly very different. Previously, when I listened to others speak, it was quite natural to be critical, or to Page: 73 hope to listen to more controversial topics; however, when I became a Nominated Member of Parliament and participated in Parliament debates, I became fully aware of the responsibility and importance of this position.”
“I thank the Senior Minister of State for the reply. The point is about us being a WTO member and having to comply with fair bidding. However, we also hear that construction companies are coming from developed countries; in fact, they are coming here to bid at very low prices, and yet it is very hard for our companies to bid for contracts in their countries. So, it seems that this WTO agreement is not presenting a fair, level playing field, especially for big construction companies from developed countries. The other point is about bringing the smaller companies in. Is there any scheme for the Government-linked companies (GLCs) to work with smaller companies overseas and, together, they bid for contracts?”
“Some things do not come easily, but as long as we persevere and work indefatigably, we would eventually see results. Page: 184 7.30 pm”
“But after joining the Chamber, and being in an environment where Chinese is being used all the time, they have become increasingly conversant in Mandarin, and even began to read and understand the Chinese council reports. This proves that if there is a desire to learn, coupled with the right environment, the mastery of Chinese language and Mandarin is not difficult. In this year's Budget, the Government has introduced the Kindergarten Fee Assistance Scheme (KiFAS), which benefits all kindergarten children from anchor operators and MOE Kindergartens. Apart from the funding support, I am even more concerned about what these preschoolers will learn in the kindergartens. How do we help them identify with the Chinese language and Mandarin? What method could be used to inculcate traditional values? I am very happy to see that the Bilingual Workgroup led by Minister of State Sim Ann has added four other committee members, making it 12 altogether. They come from diverse backgrounds and are talented people from different fields. This has demonstrated that the Government places great emphasis on the grooming of bilingual and bi-cultural talent. I hope the Bilingual Workgroup would explore how to establish a good foundation for the learning of Chinese language and Mandarin in kindergartens, strengthen civic education and transmit cores values. There are all kinds of multi-media teaching methods, and they are all effective tools to stir up children's interest. At the same time, we need to make sure that the teaching materials are localised, so that the children would find it more interesting and appealing. It takes 10 years for a tree to grow, but 100 years to cultivate a learned generation.”
“Last month, I read a piece of news where a Swiss ski resort was specially recruiting Chinese ski instructors to look after their Chinese tourists; the Swiss Tourism Board's official website also provided a Chinese version. Actually, from a few years ago, retailers from many European countries had already started hiring Chinese-speaking service staff. Whenever I come across such related news, a strong sense of crisis would come over me. How much longer can we preserve the bilingual proficiency we are so proud of? Previously, we used to declare that learning of Chinese language and Mandarin is necessary if we are keen on expanding into China, but some students may feel that they do not need to venture into China and would remain in Singapore where they can speak English. They would not need to learn Chinese. However, the tables have turned. It is no longer a matter of whether we want to go to China. It is because we can no longer avoid having to Page: 183 deal with more Mandarin-speaking customers. We have been encouraging Chinese enterprises to use Singapore as an international hub, and to use Singapore as a springboard to the world. China customers have, indeed, flocked to our shores. If we cannot get our students interested in Chinese language and Mandarin, and we cannot groom sufficient Chinese talent, then we may not only lose the China market, but our business at home may be at risk. In learning any language, the motivation comes from within. In the recent years, Korean dramas have grown very popular in Singapore, and many young people who are infatuated with Korean dramas have gone ahead to learn Korean and travel to Korea. Learning a language relies on frequent usage and frequent practice. The Chamber has a few council members who are English-educated.”
“[Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] The centrepiece of this year's Budget is on the Pioneer Generation Package, to pay due respect to the seniors for their contributions to nation-building and to look after their needs in their twilight years. This reminds me of a saying of Mencius: "Honour the aged of other families as we honour our own; care for the children of other families as we care for our own." This embodies the traditional Asian core values that Singapore adheres to. However, in a very business-dominated society, in a rapidly evolving digital age where new media reigns supreme and which is dominated by computer games and fast food, how can we ensure that traditional Asian values can continue their legacy? Four years ago, I raised the fact that although our students' Chinese examination results are fairly good, the application of the language is on the decline. Listening, conversation, reading and writing fall short of standards required by business. Four years have come and gone, and there is still no improvement. In fact, the disparity has become even more salient. Two years ago, there was even the incident where the students burned their Chinese textbooks after the examinations. I was quite disconcerted and saddened when I found out. Just how much hatred could drive the students to make a bonfire out of their Chinese textbooks? This is not a rare occurrence, but evidently the students do not care for the Chinese language at all. Chinese education is important for two reasons. First is to fulfil society's needs for talent and second is the responsibility of transmitting morals and values.”
“Perhaps, a similar programme could be started to help displaced and mature PMEs find relevant jobs in SMEs. In addition, we noted that WDA, through the Professional Conversion Programme and Max Talent, has made an effort to help retrenched PMEs in reskilling themselves for the possibility of finding new careers in selected industries and placement in SMEs. However, SMEs may not be from these selected industries, such as healthcare, tourism, aerospace, finance, F&B and so on. Therefore, would it be possible for this Programme to be finetuned so that more SMEs can enjoy the Programme? We certainly look forward to having specific support to bring the two groups together. Crane Tower Operators”
“But this means that there is an increasing vacuum for the lower-end jobs which are subject to foreign labour restrictions and higher levies. If manpower needs are not met, companies will be stranded as they cannot Page: 25 deliver goods and services and may be forced to close or relocate. Firms like Japanese specialised chemicals maker, Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha, and hard-disk maker, HGST Singapore, have already closed their doors and retrenched a few hundred workers. This brings to us another casualty of economic restructuring – retrenchments. We may be looking at a situation where many of the retrenched are PMEs who used to command a relatively higher pay and positions. According to the statistics from MOM's third quarter 2013 Labour Market report, PMETs formed nearly two-thirds of residents laid off in the third quarter of 2013, and as many as 33.7% of those unemployed are actually university graduates. On one hand, there is a manpower shortage. On the other hand, those older or mature PMEs find it difficult to get absorbed back into the workforce, especially among SMEs who are constantly screaming out for manpower. PMEs find it difficult to lower their salary expectations substantially, and are much less willing to take on a more diverse job scope, but that is mainly in SMEs. Ironically, SMEs account for 70% of our employment. So, how can this situation be tackled? Manpower issues are extremely challenging, and we have been trying our best to counter them with productivity measures. But at the end of the day, can productivity gains solve all the manpower problems? SPRING Singapore has put together an SME Talent Programme to help Polytechnic and ITE students get jobs in SMEs to help with the manpower crunch.”
“Mdm Chair, Members of Parliament, good afternoon. Budget 2014 is a far-sighted, bold and inclusive Budget which can be characterised by 3 Ps – Pioneer, People and Productivity. For the business portion of the Budget, productivity is at the centre of the economic agenda. Since 2010, the call for productivity has been repeated in practically every major policy speech. There is a strong push for productivity at all levels. SMEs have accepted the Government's call to rely less on foreign workers and taken measures to raise productivity. It is not an easy path, as SMEs, unlike the larger companies, may not have the knowledge and guidance on how to embark on their transformation journey. Nevertheless, most SMEs know that this is a path that they have to take for their long-term business sustainability. However, even with all these efforts made and the help from the Government, we often hear SMEs' frustration over the inability to recruit Singaporeans, including local executives. SMEs, unlike the large local companies and MNCs, cannot afford to meet their relatively higher salary expectations. The manpower shortage also means that companies, especially the larger ones offering better salaries, better career advancement and employment terms, would be able to recruit the workers they need. SMEs, thus, would be left with the short end of the stick. By 2020, 16,000 Singaporeans would have been placed in six local universities. This would represent 40% of Singaporeans in each cohort, up from 27% today. We have not included the graduates from private schools and those who had gone overseas. These better-educated Singaporean graduates will have higher job expectations. Jobs deemed to be of a more humble nature will be less desirable.”
“I thank the Minister of State Mr Teo Ser Luck for the clarification, and for the handbook printed. We will try and read it. Mr Teo had clarified that to apply for any PIC scheme, a company can have fewer than three CPF-paying accounts. My understanding is that there must at least be three.”
“With the development of global norms and guidelines on responsible business conduct, such as the UN Global Compact and ISO 26000 Guidance Standard, CSR – if not appropriately managed – could, in time, operate as a non-tariff trade impediment and eat into Singapore's export competitiveness. I urge the Government, which has been a promoter and practitioner of CSR, to consider developing a national policy for CSR. 5.30 pm Economic Restructuring”
“National Policy on Corporate Social Responsibility Assoc Prof Tan Kheng Boon Eugene (Nominated Member): Sir, there is growing empirical evidence that points to corporate social responsibility (CSR) making a significant positive contribution to national competitiveness. Countries like Denmark, Sweden and the United Kingdom promote their homegrown companies overseas through leveraging on CSR as a selling point. CSR becomes a quality assurance of best and responsible practices at a time where values matter just as much as value. The European Commission defines CSR as "the responsibility of enterprises for their impacts on society". To fully meet their social responsibility, enterprises "should have in place a process to integrate social, environmental, ethical human rights and consumer concerns into their business operations and core strategy in close collaboration with their stakeholders". We should consciously use CSR as a strategic differentiator and as a key competitiveness instrument in the economic arena. This leverages on Singapore's brand reputation as a country with a strong anti-corruption stance, high performance standards, and ethical leadership. However, we will need a national policy on CSR to catalyse the growth and development of CSR here. The national policy can be the roadmap, a framework, by which CSR can grow and develop to enhance Singapore's export competitiveness. Page: 131 We need to be cognisant of the growing CSR movement in the advanced economies and globally, and how that will impact upon us.”
“Later, the Minister said that there are carrots everywhere on the ground for SMEs to pick up and eat, and even provided a telephone number for SMEs to call if the rabbits are keen to eat the carrots. We called this telephone number and the receptionist took down the contact, promising that a consultant would contact us. Actually, the Government does provide many carrots; however, they are not strewn on the ground but hung on trees. Big rabbits have no problem accessing the carrots, but the small rabbits that are jumping around still cannot eat a single carrot. Having said that, I would still urge the Government to set up a coordinating agency focusing on SME matters. Currently, the SME Centre@SCCCI is putting all its efforts into promoting the Government assistance schemes. However, we keep running into problems during the implementation process because of the need to coordinate with multiple agencies. Moreover, dealing with one Government agency would not be effective because Government departments Page: 130 need to work within their own boundaries. In fact, many of our civil servants are very effective "goalkeepers" for the Government. The Chamber can only be a channel for communication and a feedback channel. Businessmen still require a decision-making organisation with an in-depth understanding of SMEs' operations and which can set and promote policies based on SMEs' perspectives and coordinate with other agencies to take care of the needs of SMEs and micro-enterprises. This recommendation has been raised time and again, but I wish to raise it once again to help local enterprises. Budget 2014 will be set in motion and I earnestly hope that this beautifully presented Budget could bring sufficient benefits to more small business owners.”
“The PIC cash payout, ICV and PIC Bonus are all most helpful to them, but this all depends if they qualify in the Page: 129 first place. Ninety percent of Singapore's local enterprises are SMEs. Owing to the existence of these SMEs, MNCs can operate in Singapore's business environment with ease. SMEs also provide a wide range of services and help Singapore to gain its stature of being a liveable city. The services sector accounts for a large number of these SMEs. According to the World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness Report 2013-2014, out of 148 countries and regions, Singapore ranked number two for three consecutive years; but in the area of Business Sophistication, the ranking dropped from number 14 to number 17 this year, and the Innovation level also went down one notch from number eight to number nine. Business sophistication and innovation levels have dipped, reminding us that we ought to pay more attention to SMEs' survival and growth. Social stability can only be achieved if people can meet their basic needs in life and in their work, especially among blue-collar workers and workers in the services sector. If SMEs and micro-enterprises have the prospects of growth, young people can be attracted to join them and the call to improve productivity becomes more of a reality than a theoretical notion. This is also related to policy planning concerning education, manpower, business costs and business infrastructure. As I mentioned in the Budget Debate for 2011, Government assistance schemes are like carrots hanging high. If they are hung up too high, the SMEs cannot consume them. I mentioned this again in November 2012 and the problem was raised for a third time during the 2013 Budget Debate.”
“For example, while small printing outfits specialised in printing name cards, invitations, signs and advertisements can make use of computer software, they are unable to take advantage of mechanisation and high-tech solutions due to the customised nature of the business and because they deal in small quantities. Although their productivity is not high, businessmen and working people still require these timely services. According to the Government agencies' current calculations, some small enterprises are "doomed" to belong to the low value-added industries. Although these industries may not be as prominent in economic performance, they provide the means of livelihood for many families. Many old and established businesses have helped to raise two or three generations of Singaporeans; they can be said to symbolise the original flavours of Singapore, and have become an integral part of Singapore culture. They are still struggling to survive. Thus, I feel that MTI should look after the needs of the SMEs and micro-enterprises when they draw up industrial policies. This is not only my personal view, but represents the voice of many SMEs in Singapore. The most classic example is that some qualifying conditions attached to the PIC prevent many micro-enterprises from leveraging on the cash payout portion of the PIC. PIC has a prerequisite where companies need to have at least three local CPF-paying employees. Some family-operated businesses are unable to qualify and they are unable to recruit workers. Because of their low profit margins, they are also unable to fully enjoy the cap of 400% for enhanced tax deductions. Most SMEs are strapped for cash.”
“On the contrary, assistance provided to the SMEs and traditional businesses is very peripheral and many assistance schemes come with a slew of conditions, making them almost impossible for SMEs, especially micro-enterprises, to enjoy. Recently, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said this in an interview, in Mandarin, with the Chinese weekly magazine, New Century: "In balancing the two needs, to be competitive as well as to take care of the people, Singapore needs to do somewhat more to tilt towards the latter. As competition gets fiercer, the middle- and lower-income will need more attention. If you go too much towards competitiveness, you lose that cohesion and sense of being Page: 128 Singaporeans together." Thus, I would like to understand how MTI determines that a particular industry belongs to the high value-added category, or how the productivity of a particular industry is evaluated. Based on current calculations, some high value-added industries will have very preferential treatment in doing business, but those deemed low value-added, especially those belonging to traditional businesses, would never become high value-added no matter how hard they try to upgrade and innovate. A slab of bean curd, a bowl of bak kut teh, one plate of char kway teow and one ang ku kueh can never be equated to a computer chip in terms of value. However, in terms of social acceptance and cohesion, such traditional businesses can never be weighed by monetary considerations. Similarly, how does the Government measure a company's productivity? If we were to measure based on unit value of production, certain small workshops from the services sector would find it difficult to continue improving their efficiency.”
“[Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mdm Speaker, Members of Parliament, good afternoon to all. I am the Immediate Past President of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the Managing Director of Pacific International Lines. The key points of my speech today are how to determine the value-add and productivity of business, and how to preserve traditional businesses and help them to grow. A number of SCCCI's pre-Budget wish-lists, based on our Survey findings, have found responses in this year's Budget, especially in the fine-tuning of schemes like the Productivity & Innovation Credit (PIC) and the Innovation & Capability Voucher (ICV), to assist local enterprises in improving their productivity and alleviating their cash flow pressures. However, some small business owners told me that the Government assistance schemes mainly benefit profitable companies and of a certain size. The requirements for most of these assistance schemes are unattainable by micro-enterprises. Moreover, their most pressing needs remain unsolved, especially with regard to escalating rentals and manpower shortage. These are problems mostly encountered by traditional businesses, neighbourhood shops, hawker centres, food processing, timber, glass, F&B and the services sector in general. How can we change the predicament faced by these small businesses at root source? I have long thought about this. To this very day, the Government has been the prime mover of Singapore's economic development, steering Singapore towards the path of industrial upgrading and transformation. Some high value-added and high-technology industries would be well taken care of – receiving all kinds of preferential treatment for land allocation, tax holidays, financing and application of high-tech solutions.”
“The Government should help them to improve and upgrade, provide the small business owners and small factories with a sustainable business environment, attract younger people to join them, and enable them to apply new visions and methods to improve the productivity of these companies. If the Government and the business community can maintain effective communication, SMEs would be Page: 74 able to welcome a better tomorrow! I support the Motion. 2.57 pm”
“This trial period would last for one year and cost the Government $10 million. Despite all these efforts, commuters do not feel any significant improvement in the transport scenario. I am thinking that despite the very best efforts of the Government and the enterprises to improve related services, and the public still feels dissatisfied, should we change tactics? Should we consider changing the management and operational model? Singapore's business environment has always been lauded by overseas investors. According to the World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness Report, among 148 countries and regions, Singapore has ranked No 2 for three consecutive years, and is second only to Switzerland. Similarly, overseas professionals and expatriates find Singapore the most attractive place to work and live in Asia. Singapore's impressive accolade for business and lifestyle in the region should also be attributed to the contributions of its many SMEs, especially in the services sector, which has provided many diverse options and added to the total vibrancy of our city state. Singapore has an extremely diversified corporate landscape. We have MNCs and Government-linked companies. But, above all, we have many SMEs in our midst. Many SMEs are established household names which have existed during the early days of our nation-building. They should, therefore, be considered as the pioneers of economic development and are our "Pioneer Generation" enterprises. Although these enterprises are neither hi-tech nor high value-added. They are, in fact, the foundation and ways of life of many in Singapore. Thus, I hope that as the Government looks after the Pioneer Generation, it would also look after these pioneer enterprises.”
“Can privatisation of Government functions sufficiently take care of public welfare? Take hawker centres as an example. In the past, the Government provided a shelter and proper operating area for the street hawkers, and NEA looked after the hawker trade very well. The hawker stall rentals were lower than market rate, and the hawkers could rely on this for a living. Singaporeans were also provided with places to eat good and affordable food. If the whole paradigm changes and social enterprises become responsible for the hawkers, will this not create other problems? I think everyone is very clear that there is a great difference between business capability and public services. I have been in business for many years, and I believe that, in business, the uppermost concern would be revenue and costs, and the need to survive in the business environment. What troubles me now is: how can corporate considerations adequately look after public welfare and, in particular, the welfare of the weaker segments of society? If we are after efficiency and profit margins, we are bound to see social divisiveness. Is this Page: 73 the result we wish to see? Lately, the MRT has continued to be beleaguered by a number of delays and breakdowns. The Minister for Transport has also reprimanded the organisations in question. The Government has invested heavily in public transportation services. Budget 2012 announced that S$1.1 billion would be set aside to purchase 550 buses for the two Public Transport Operators (PTOs), build new bus terminals and lower part of the PTOs' operating expenditures. From June 2013, MRT commuters who tap out at 18 city stations before 7.45 am on weekdays will enjoy free travel. If they tap out between 7.45 am and 8.00 am, their train fare would be reduced by 50 cents.”
“Page: 72 The MCE incident has good learning points. In the past, highway designs were relatively simpler, but the MCE designs are rather more complex. Using the same logic, Singapore's business environment gets more and more complex each day. At this time, the communication between the Government and the business community needs to be even more detailed and effective. Our Government is highly efficient. However, if the environment changes and the Government still applies the same methods to promote its policies, problems may arise. In fact, some matters may actually be very simple, but because multiple Government agencies are involved, it gets to a point where no one knows which agency should be held responsible. This is like the case cited by Prime Minister Lee last year, who related the story of catching snakes to civil servants. Thus, I still hope to see the formation of a dedicated Government agency, responsible for coordinating matters related to SMEs, and which can liaise with different Government agencies effectively. This suggestion has been raised before and I reiterate it today. Recently, there has been a very hot topic. The leases for four hawker centres at Bedok Centre, West Coast, Geylang East Centre and Ghim Moh will soon expire. Currently, NEA is inviting proposals and is hoping that these hawker centres could be taken over by social enterprises. This is a very significant change which impinges on many areas. The hawkers themselves are also talking about this at length. The majority hope that the Government would continue to manage these hawker centres, because they are worried that, just like the REITs did in the past few years, privatisation would surely push up the rental costs. This brings me to my third point.”
“Thus, I hope that when the Government draws up its policies, it could consider the needs of SMEs and micro-enterprises, especially in areas like land costs, rentals, manpower and Government assistance, giving them some leeway to survive and develop. As Singapore enjoys rapid economic growth, SMEs and micro-enterprises should also be able to reap its benefits; we can then ensure social cohesion and stability and have an even more inclusive society. Today, the second key point I wish to dwell on is the mutual interaction and mutual trust between Government and the private sector. I am sure everyone still remembers that when the Marina Coastal Expressway (MCE) was opened to traffic on the first day, its gridlock became the subject of much public debate. However, in all fairness, LTA had pre-opening publicity initiatives starting from 12 November 2013, which included a well-produced YouTube video on how to navigate the MCE, with graphics. Mainstream media also reported on MCE on 13 November 2013. However, the reality was vastly different. This situation reminds us that, on the one hand, while concentrating on effective public communication, the Government also needs to consider adopting very different means and channels so that the different stakeholders can comprehend and agree to ensure a seamless implementation. At the same time, the society at large should also adopt a more understanding approach towards the Government's new projects, new policies and make concerted efforts to try them out, make adjustments, and try to shorten the teething period. If there is a high level of trust between the Government and the people, big issues can be minimised on its impact. Once the trust level is low, even small matters can be magnified and blown out of proportion.”
“He managed not only to expand the family business in a big way, but also set up branches overseas. Kho Choon Keng was a Government scholar and worked in a Government agency before returning to head Lian Huat, a company founded by his father. The company experienced tremendous growth, and the group currently has 20 subsidiaries. Kuah Boon Wee studied Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College in London and he also holds a Chartered Accountancy degree. After graduation, he worked in MNCs and Government-linked companies. Three years ago, he succeeded the family business which is in the oil and gas engineering and engine systems. These examples of our council members Page: 71 clearly state that family business and traditional industries can continue to flourish and be just as competitive as long as they can be injected with new ideas and methodologies. These examples of successful SMEs are really encouraging; however, they still belong to the minority. SMEs and micro-enterprises which make up the majority of local enterprises are still struggling to survive and grow and deserve much greater attention. In the past few years, I have given many examples of traditional trades and businesses in my Parliament speeches, including noodle factories, curry fish head restaurants, bookshops, florists, laundries, bakeries, tentage companies, school and private bus companies and so on. These are all SMEs. For this year's Budget, we feel that micro-enterprises and traditional industries have not benefited much from the Budget goodies. Currently, these traditional industries face a number of problems: the inability to find successors, shrinking markets, rising rentals and increasing manpower costs.”
“I enjoy watching the Mediacorp programme "Tuesday Report". The last episode's focus was on "Business Succession", and I was particularly impressed by a story about a third-generation successor. The young man, Gavin Sng, had a University education and held a senior position in an MNC. He resigned to join the family business for two reasons: one was to ensure the continuity of the kueh shop business founded by his grandfather and to retain its traditional flavours for posterity; second, he hoped to rely on his own hard work to enable his family business to grow and prosper. In the same programme, there was another young man, Alan Ng, who was previously a jockey. He left the glamorous race course circuit to take over his family's bean curd factory and became a successor who gained the trust of his elders and the respect of his employees. Yet another case was of Eric Chua, who loved to cook since young but left home after a quarrel with his father. Eventually, he still came back to take over and was responsible for expanding the restaurant business. Although they were not highly educated, they had a great passion for the family business and were willing to roll up their sleeves, learn, work hard and persevere. Many council members from the SCCCI have similar backgrounds. Lau Tai San studied Chemical Engineering at Nanyang University and pursued further studies in Canada thereafter. After graduation, he worked for 15 years in Government-linked companies and MNCs, before taking over the reins at Kim Ann Engineering and propelling the business towards high value-added territory. Ang Kiam Meng read Computer Science at a university in the United States; after graduation, he worked for seven years in Singapore Technologies before taking over the management of Jumbo Seafood.”
“Mdm Speaker, good afternoon, may I deliver my speech in Mandarin, please? (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mdm Speaker, Members of Parliament, good afternoon. I am the Immediate Past President of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCCI) and the Managing Director of Pacific International Lines. Firstly, I would like to congratulate the Finance Minister for having formulated a very inclusive, forward-looking and appropriate Budget this year. The highlight of the Budget is the $8 billion Pioneer Generation Package, which demonstrates the Government's respect and care for our seniors. The Budget also encourages enterprises to continue improving on productivity and to pursue in efforts to innovate, restructure and internationalise. We were also encouraged to find that a number of our SCCCI Pre-Budget wish-lists were fulfilled. The relationship between the Government, people and the business community needs to strike a balance; there also needs to be mutual trust and understanding, timely communication and close coordination. Since 2010, I have participated in the Budget debates and raised some issues in Parliament repeatedly. As the representative of the business community, I am obligated to raise these issues again today. My speech will focus on three main points: first, how to provide a sustainable pro-business environment for local SMEs; second, the mutual Page: 70 interaction and trust between Government and private sector; third, can privatisation of Government functions sufficiently take care of public welfare? Should we not consider changing the management and operational model for special service areas? My first point is how to provide a sustainable business environment for local SMEs.”
“If Singapore can be likened to a flourishing tree, then the SMEs and employees are the roots of this tree. Only when the root system is well-developed and healthy can nutrients be transported effectively to develop lush leaves and branches. When SMEs are developing healthily, their employees can have better livelihoods and the country will maintain its stable development. I have constantly reiterated that helping our local enterprises restructure is not something that can be completed overnight. It requires consistent effort from the Government, businesses and employees. To sum up, in order to help our local SMEs achieve sustainable development, businesses have three items on their wish-list. Firstly, they hope that the Government can take a clear and long-term approach with regard to planning land allocation, adjusting Government policies and increasing productivity. This would allow SMEs to simultaneously make long-term plans. Secondly, businesses hope that there can be an over-arching agency to handle SME matters and coordinate with other Government agencies to guide businesses to the relevant parties. Thirdly, the policy criteria set by the Government are wide-ranging and numerous. We hope that the Government can be more sympathetic towards the situation of our SMEs and lower the compliance costs related to the implementation of Government policies. This would alleviate the burden on businesses already coping with the double-whammy caused by manpower and rental cost pressures. 5.40 pm”
“When looking for assistance, businesses have to hop from one agency to another. Despite the good attitude shown by each Government agency, they are still unable to solve the problems at hand. A few weeks ago, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong shared the story of "catching snakes" at the Public Service Leadership Advance. Different agencies would be required to handle the issue depending on the location of the snake. Of course, the conclusion of the story was that all animal-related issues would be handled by the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) now and there is one hotline for the public to report such issues. Compared to catching snakes, the problems faced by SMEs are even more complicated and involve many Government agencies. We hope that there can be one agency for SMEs to approach directly for help. This agency can then take the lead to provide coordination services with other Government agencies. In August this year, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced at the National Day Rally that an SME Workgroup would be established so that grassroots political leaders, business organisations and Government agencies could work together to examine issues pertaining to SMEs. The workgroup consists of 16 Members of Parliament, nine business chamber representatives, Page: 91 three business leaders and nine Government Ministries and agencies. This is a good start and shows that the Government places great value on SMEs. However, it is essential to have the right remedy to deal with the situation. With an accurate solution, challenges can be dealt with in an efficient manner. The opposite would be true with an inappropriate solution. SMEs and their employees are the core of Singapore and have their roots in the country.”
“Recently, JTC has launched 18 units of Small Footprint Standard Factories for rental to SMEs. In addition, HDB has announced the revision of its tenancy policies together with the building of new neighbourhood centres in HDB Page: 90 estates. This is an excellent start. I hope that this model can be expanded to provide more SMEs with affordable space for business operations. A suitable location is essential for business operations. Any business model would require planning and time for implementation. If the issue of space becomes a constant uncertainty, businesses will be in a nomadic state; unable to implement long-term plans and lacking confidence to invest in fixed assets, employee training and upgrading and, particularly, in equipment that would improve productivity. If this continues, the overall competitiveness of local enterprises will be seriously affected. Businesses understand that there is a limited supply of land in Singapore. However, our businesses hope that early notification on the possibility of future renewals can be given before the expiry of the land lease. This would give businesses more leeway to adjust and find alternatives. This is a better option than having to tackle the difficulty of finding a new location at short notice. Additionally, a common challenge reflected by businesses with regard to the Government is the lack of coordination among Government agencies. This has left enterprises totally exasperated and at a loss. In actuality, it is a good thing that each Government agency has a clear mandate and cooperates through the division of labour. However, businesses sometimes face great difficulty or are perplexed when approaching Government agencies to solve an issue.”
“Heavy flowerpots and unsold fresh flowers at the original location are difficult to move and, therefore, need to be discarded. Mr Tan's current wish is simple. He hopes that the relevant agencies could provide an early indication to businesses on whether leases can be renewed. With this certainty, businesses will be able to plan ahead for the facilities required, raise capital and find new locations. Mr Tan's wish is shared by many SMEs as well. Businesses in the service, retail and food and beverage industries are most affected by rising shop rental costs. Currently, JTC and HDB divest many commercial spaces to private owners or establish Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). Under the management of private companies, rental periods are very short, with renewal being required once every three years on average. Not only is the increase in rent extremely steep with each renewal, profits also have to be shared with property owners. Practically all businesses from various industries have aired their grievances regarding REITs. In their words, "We are simply working for REITs." With regard to commercial space, many businesses reminisce about the time when JTC and HDB provided affordable space for business operations. With increasing proliferation of free market forces, I hope that the Government would increase its support for the large number of SMEs. These SMEs comprise those in traditional industries, those which provide support services to multinational corporations, new hi-tech start-ups, and many which are closely connected to the basic needs of Singaporeans. More importantly, these businesses hire 70% of our country's workforce and provide suitable employment opportunities for people from all walks of life.”
“For example, there is no guaranteed lease renewal for a JTC factory upon the completion of the 30-year lease. In addition, some industries are unable to receive a definite answer on whether they can renew their lease for land managed by SLA. When businesses are unable to renew their leases, they would need to identify alternative industrial space quickly upon being notified of the lease termination. Moreover, moving business operations is also an extremely costly affair. Besides moving costs, fixed asset investment and renovation expenses, many facilities and equipment are disposed of in order to restore the industrial space to its original condition. Many trade associations have relayed such a grievance to SCCCI. For example, businesses in the metal and machinery as well as timber industries need to use and stock much heavy duty equipment. Finding a suitable location Page: 89 and moving operations are no mean feat. Such equipment cannot be stacked up due to loading and safety considerations, and thus require sufficient land. Now, let me relay a case regarding a florist. Being a florist in Singapore is not that easy, even if Singapore is considered a garden city or, as we now position ourselves internationally, a city in a garden. Mr Tan Peng Kheok, Chairman and Managing Director of Prince's Flower Shop, started his operations at Toh Tuck Road in 1956. To date, he has moved a total of seven times. His current operation is based at Sungei Tengah Road. However, his 20-year lease will end in November next year and he is unsure whether the lease could be renewed. According to past experience, each move will cost $2 million, which includes setting up new flower beds as well as irrigation and drainage systems.”
“This is extremely heartening news. However, we should also reflect over this situation: if the Government and the business community share the same views and attitudes about this new strategic direction, why are many companies still struggling? What effective measures can we take to achieve the desired goal? The survey showed that the two salient challenges faced by local SMEs are manpower and business premises. Manpower challenges have become a reality. Businesses are well aware that there are no shortcuts to solving manpower challenges and there will be no U-turns to the Government policies. Hence, we hope that the Government would be able to provide affordable space for the local SMEs. From the perspective of the business community, it does not matter which Government agency is responsible – be it JTC, SLA, HDB, NEA or any other agency. They only hope to find the solution to their challenges once and for all. SCCCI organises monthly lunch dialogues with our trade association members on their challenges. We obtain a great deal of feedback through these dialogues, and the most frequently raised issue relates to business space. Industries which have been affected include metal and machinery, timber, food and beverage, furniture, vehicle trading, food import and export, hortiflora, flower wholesale, bakery, and coffee shops. They have all conveyed the same issue. Evidently, the challenge posed by business premises is a common and predominant challenge to local companies. The challenges with regard to business premises fall into two categories. The first category pertains to the renewal of land lease, while the other is on the spiralling escalation of rental costs for factory and retail space.”
“Thank you, Mdm Speaker. In Mandarin, please. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mdm Speaker, hon Members, good afternoon. Firstly, I would like to declare that I am the Immediate Past President of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCCI) and the Managing Director of Pacific International Lines. In November last year, I gave a speech in Parliament to articulate the needs of our SMEs and reflect their challenges and aspirations. Today, one year later, I would once again attempt to convey the voice of our local SMEs on the topic "Sustainability of Small and Medium Enterprises". In the past two years, the Government has launched many assistance schemes to help local enterprises grow and increase productivity. Our businesses have also done their utmost to innovate and adapt by trying out new initiatives. Some have relocated their production bases to neighbouring countries to reduce their overheads. The SCCCI, which positions itself as an effective bridge between the Government and the private sector, has always strived to promote mutual cooperation. As we assist the Government to promote its policies, the Chamber also gives timely feedback to relevant Government agencies on the challenges faced by businesses on the ground. What are the main challenges being faced by the businesses currently? This month, SCCCI announced the findings of its 2013 SME Survey. A total of 516 companies participated in the survey, out of which 97.7% were SMEs. We were pleased to note that the direction and attitude taken by the Government and SMEs towards increasing productivity is in sync. Out of the companies surveyed, Page: 88 84% indicated that they were working hard to make adjustments and implementing various measures to increase productivity.”
“On this note, while we welcome JTC's new data collecting function, I would like to urge that JTC and URA continue to work closely so that the land use needs of our companies, especially our SMEs, will be sufficiently taken into due consideration in our national land use plan. With that, I support the Bill. 5.20 pm Page: 85”
“Mdm Speaker, first, I am pleased to note that the amendment of this Act will confer on the JTC with a new function, which is to collect, compile and analyse information of a statistical nature relating to industrial properties in Singapore, and to publish and disseminate the results of such a compilation or analysis. This is a step in the right direction for JTC, as this can hopefully make available more comprehensive industrial property data in Singapore to facilitate policy making and planning by our Government on the one hand, and for reference and decision making relating to land by our companies on the other. While JTC will be conferred with this new function relating to industrial property data, we note that URA remains as our overall national land use planning authority. It is, therefore, important that URA have continued access to comprehensive industrial property data, so that adequate land will always be allocated for industrial use, especially for the SMEs, amongst other diverse and competing land use needs, such as housing, commercial, recreation and other infrastructure developments. This is important since, apart from manpower, a key challenge faced by our SMEs today relates to business premises, including having affordable industrial space for their business activities. In the event that inadequate industrial land is reflected in URA's national land use plan, there would be a downstream danger that a supply shortage would subsequently further push up industrial land costs which are already high today.”
“My question is that this company, ComfortDelGro, was actually awarded the Jurong West City Direct services contract, but in the public eye it seems to be part of the public transport operator's parent, with ample resources and all that. Even though this company is run separately, it is not really a private operator. So, to the genuine private operators, it is unfair competition.”
“First of all, I congratulate the Ministry for awarding this contract after I brought it up in the Budget debate in 2012. What I am concerned is this. As the Minister of State said, ComfortDelGro, Bus-Plus and the other company are run separately from their parent company but, inevitably, they belong to the same company, same parent, which is ComfortDelGro, and SBS is the other public transport operator. So, to the real private operator, it seems to be unfair competition – they can never compete with them.”
“Mdm Speaker, I would like to ask the Minister of State, from the ground, does he get the feedback that there are higher take-up rates from the SMEs for these schemes?”
“Mdm Speaker, I thank the Acting Minister that MAS calibrated the policy according to the reaction from the ground. From 1995 to February 2003, the restriction on car loan was 70%. After that, for the next 10 years, there was no restriction. Now, with the new restriction announced at this year's Budget, MAS has within a month, assessed the ground feel and changed the policy. Would the Acting Minister consider two months later, depending on the situation, taking a moderate line of having a Page: 14 restriction of between 70% and 100%?”
“This type of education has to start in schools; Primary and Secondary school students should learn to respect the importance of each worker, and understand that every type of job can produce champions. In this respect, I totally agree with Minister Lim Swee Say's statement last week that the tripartite cooperation amongst the Government, employers and employees could lead the way to ensure that all enterprises and workers work together in this way to pursue the dream of creating a better Singapore, and to create a nation that knows how to cherish, care for and respect each and every worker. If the bosses, workers, customers, the community and the Government can work together in this way, I am confident that the local services sector would overcome this period of economic restructuring. Continuing Education and Training (CET)”