Wan Hussin bin Haji Zoohri
Singapore
“I have no alternative, Sir, but to withdraw my amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $3,425,000,000 for Head K ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. The sum of $275,000,000 for Head K ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. Head W -”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, in conclusion, I would like to reiterate that the President's Address augurs well for our future. It sets clear directions and prepares the stage for Singapore's new phase of development. The new leadership has done much of the spade work. It is now poised to lead Singaporeans to greater heights.”
“If the Member for Potong Pasir strongly feels that the Government has breached the spirit and implementation of this Article, the onus is on him to prove it. I see no better place than to seek the finality of this spirit and implementation of this Article in a court of law. An hon. Member: Hear, hear!”
“Whatever the dislocation may be, it must be minimal. On the provision to allow religious studies to be taught outside curriculum time as an optional subject, I hope the Minister will take into consideration and allow Muslim students to study Islamic Religious Knowledge outside curriculum time should there be requests from them in certain…”
“From now on, we must redouble our efforts to promote our cultural activities in order to enrich our people's cultural life and create a new image. Our civic cultural groups, whether in the fields of music, arts or performing arts, have in the past been quite active, but there were relatively few active participants.”
“Sir, I thank the Minister of State for her encouraging reply but I hope the current compilation work by the Ministry could be expedited as it has taken slightly more than a year to complete. On that note, I withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.”
The complete record
Every one of 100 lines we hold for Wan Hussin bin Haji Zoohri, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 2 of 2.
“My first point is with regard to the School Executive Committee (SEC). I am made to understand that the Ministry is now currently having a pilot programme in the setting up of a School Executive Committee. The objective of SEC, if I may quote from MCM paper, is that: 'To develop the identity and character of and to inculcate independent thinking and innovation in Government schools.' In short, the SEC is an added impetus or added stimulus for the general upgrading of the school programme. Reading the report of the MCM paper on this subject, Sir, I am encouraged by the positive contributions made by SEC. Just to cite one of the examples. The SEC has organized certain computer appreciation courses for some teachers. It has also encouraged the formation of Work Improvement Teams (WITS) in certain schools and also has assisted improvements in the physical expansion of certain schools, eg, the language laboratory and also the airconditioning of certain AVA rooms. I understand that, because of this positive pilot scheme, the Ministry is hoping to extend this to other schools. 4.00 pm But looking at the profile of these SEC members, I observe that many of them are professionals with very high academic qualifications. Just one example, two schools are having as their chairman the Permanent Secretaries of various Ministries. Sir, my concern here is t-hat whilst welcoming the role and the contributions of SEC in schools, there could be problems ahead when this is introduced in all schools in Singapore. Firstly, will there be enough people of high calibre and of good academic background to serve all the schools? Who will do the selection of the members? Will it be the schools themselves or the Ministry of Education?”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, may I be allowed to speak on two amendments* under my name?”
“I am sure that if we could spend $55.5 million to develop and maintain our garden and parks last year, we should also be prepared to invest our resources on our young who will be the future owners of these parks.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, with the assurance given by the Minister concerned that two additional posts have been made, a clerical officer in May last year and one additional Muslim social case worker will be made available in 1985, I thank him for that. However, against the background of the statistics given, I still think that with this one additional post, making it three altogether, they still need Herculean strength to solve the more than 2,000 cases that are in their hands. However, in the spirit of half a loaf is better than none, I beg leave to withdraw. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Mrs Yu-Foo Yee Shoon (Yuhua): Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head J be reduced by $10 in respect of Subhead JC-02 of the Main Estimates. As working mothers, we are grateful to the Government for having set up child care centres to enable women to work since the 1960s. It is therefore very heartening to note that the President has included in his Address the need to develop good quality child care centres, not only to enable women to work but also to provide an all-round development for the children of these working parents. The Minister of State has also mentioned this morning that more centres will be set up by various organizations this year. I am therefore surprised, Sir, to note that under the Ministry's budget for Day Care Services the grants to child care centres has been decreased from $1.32 million to $1 million. I would like to seek the Minister's clarification on this. Sir, as you know, the resources and expertise of private organizations are limited. Therefore, instead of depending on the private organizations, I would like to know whether the Ministry is prepared to take on the operation of child care centres.”
“However, as we all know, last year the pilgrims encountered many problems, and I think MUIS had already held a dialogue session with the pilgrims as well as the syehs Haji and received feedback pertaining to the problems faced by the pilgrims. I consider the measures taken by MUIS to get to the root cause of the problems of the pilgrims commendable and MUIS should be congratulated. I wonder if the Hon. Minister in charge could elaborate to this House as to what steps have been taken and will be taken by MUIS to ensure that the Haj services provided to our pilgrims this year and the years ahead can be improved further. And I hope MUIS and the officials of muassasah in Saudi Arabia can work even closer together for the benefit of our pilgrims.”
“The first concerns deviationist teachings. I had occasion to comment in this House on the misgivings of the local Muslim community regarding deviationist teachings. Recently, the Berita Harian carried reports about this while the Friday sermons drew attention to deviationist teachings being practised in several areas in Singapore. I seek elucidation from the Hon. Minister concerned as to the true position and the steps to be taken by MUIS and other Muslim organizations to combat and, if possible, eradicate completely deviationist teachings. The second point is about religious education in the madrasahs, suraus and mosques. I commend MUIS's efforts in providing courses to religious teachers. I would like to suggest that such courses be continued and that they be opened to all organizations which conduct their own religious classes. May I ask what further steps will be taken by MUIS to study and structure syllabuses in order to coordinate religious education in madrasahs, suraus and mosques for the benefit of the local Muslim community. I hope to hear a clarification from the Hon. Minister in charge. Encik Ibrahim Othman (Tanah Merah)( In Malay): Sir, I wish to add a little to what has been said by my colleague, the Member for Pasir Panjang, and the point that I wish to raise here concerns the Muslim Religious Council, Singapore. I would like to touch on the Haj services provided by MUIS within the framework of the muassasah system which was introduced last year. As we all know, the purpose of introducing the muassasah system is to enhance the services provided to our pilgrims who perform this obligatory tenet.”
“For example, between 1981 and 1984, on the average, the number of marriages salvaged was in the region of 600. For instance, 611 reconciliations were effected during 1984. This goes to prove that the performance of the two officers concerned was indeed meritorious. Now, I move on to ask the Minister in charge whether it is not possible for him to increase the number of officers so that the incumbents will not be overloaded with work since, from the figures that I have quoted, it is not possible for cases to be handled expeditiously. At least the number required will be in the region of 10 officers if each officer is allocated an average of 200 or more cases. So we need 10 officers. I consider that two officers is inadequate to deal with the volume of work involved. I request that this matter be reviewed and, if possible, the enlargement of officers be effected within the bounds of reasonableness. Pertinent to this subject matter, I also understand that in the newly built mosques in the housing estates, a certain type of service is provided whereby couples having marital problems are given advice. I would like to be informed of the situation obtaining in certain mosques where this service is provided. Are the activities of the mosque committees receiving due attention? Will this device help to reduce the divorce rate among muslims? Encik Abbas Abu Amin (Pasir Panjang)( In Malay): Sir, I wish to congratulate the Singapore Muslim Religious Council (MUIS) for being able to organize and upgrade further its activities and streamlining its administration. Congratulations also to MUIS on the production of its comprehensive annual report which, in its new format, is attractive. A summary of MUIS's activities is recorded in this report. I merely wish to touch on two matters.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I wish to speak on the rate and pattern of marriages and divorces among the Muslims in Singapore. I find that between 1981 and 1984, on the average, the total number of Muslim marriages was more than 4,000. For instance, in 1984, 4,487 marriages were contracted. Then, if we look at the pattern of Muslim divorces between 1981 and 1984, the average divorce rate was within the range of 500 divorces. For example, there were 505 divorces in 1984. This means that when the total number of marriages is compared to the total number of divorces, on the average, the total number or the percenta e of divorce is between 8-12%, representing an average of 10-11% yearly. However, we are also aware that there are Muslim social case workers attached to the Mahkamah Syariah, and at the present moment, I find that there are only two incumbents. We understand also that a couple with marital problems will be referred to this Mahkamah (Court) with a view to effecting reconciliation. From the figures made available to me, I feel that these social case workers have fulfilled their duties admirably although the number of cases referred to them are large. For instance, the number of cases handled by these two officers in 1984 was 1,593 and this did not include outstanding cases numbering 814 which must also be tackled. This means that between the two officers, they had to deal with a total number of 2,407 cases. If this figure is equally apportioned between the two, it means that each officer will need super energy, perhaps they will need the energy like Badang in the Malay folklore. Nevertheless, although their workload was voluminous, they succeeded in reconciling a considerable number of couples.”
“And we also know that this cargo-cult would place materialism as the be-all and the end-all of life turning us into a crass, callous and possibly soulless society. I hope Mr Speaker, Sir, Singaporeans will now be able to visualize the national scenario and to see for themselves where the valleys are and where the precipice and gorges are. If they cultivate these valleys wisely, they will harvest bountiful crops. But if they ignore or choose to ignore the precipice and the gorges, destruction and perdition awaits them. 3.03 p.m.”
“Let me recall the contents of this pledge:- We, the citizens of Singapore, pledge ourselves as one united people, regardless of race, language or religion, to build a democratic society based on justice and equality, so as to achieve happiness, prosperity, and progress for our nation. These fixed points, Mr Speaker, Sir, as I term them, can indeed be termed as our national trinity. They constitute our national ideology. To me, they should be immersed in our minds and hearts, so that their true significance and appreciation should spontaneously radiate from within ourselves whenever the national flag is hoisted, the national anthem is sung and the pledge recited. They constitute to me as our psychological and emotional glue that would enhance and strengthen our Singaporean ethos. Perhaps it might not be too much to stipulate that this national trinity of ours be one of the criteria for the conferment of citizenship to those who apply for it. Mr Speaker, Sir, I just want to conclude my speech, again, with a reminder to Singaporeans. Singapore has done remarkably well so far. God willing, we will achieve greater heights. But lurking in our midst are some latent dangers. Fortunately, they are now dormant. But there is no guarantee that they will not resurface, more so during difficult times and more so when the economy is on the decline. These inherent dangers, I would term them or refer them as the three Cs - communalism, complacency and, what Dr Goh Keng Swee once referred to as, the cargo-cult. We know that communalism would shatter our racial tolerance and harmony and we realize that complacency would sap our vitality and dynamism resulting in the decline of our work ethics.”
“Once overcome, the benefits are enormous, both to the society and the nation. Mr Speaker, Sir, may I now move to another area of concern, of national dimension, and that is, in the realm that borders on our sense of patriotism. Imbibed by the sense of common destiny, every Singaporean has that sense of patriotism in him. However, I think, occasionally we need to restrengthen this, and this can be done, to my mind, by reflecting and introspecting our national fixed points. What then are our national fixed points? To me, Mr Speaker, they are embodied not only in our Constitution but also in our national flag, in our national anthem, and to the school-going population, it is in their school pledge. These represent our guiding principles when we started on our road towards nationhood. It is a sad commentary to know that many Singaporeans are ignorant of the meaning and significance of our national flag. Other than hoisting them during National Day, how many really know the meaning of the red and white colours, the significance of the crescent moon, and the meaning behind the five stars? Lest we forget, the red colour symbolizes universal brotherhood and equality of man, while white signifies pervading and everlasting purity and virtue. The crescent moon represents a young nation on the ascendant illuminated by the five stars symbolizing Democracy, Peace, Progress, Justice and Equality. In essence, Mr Speaker, Sir, they embody our national ideals. But coming to the school pledge, how many Singaporeans who have left school can still remember the pledge? I will venture to add that this school pledge be upgraded as the national pledge, because in this pledge is embodied our common aspirations very much akin to that of our national flag.”
“But what is needed is not an outright financial assistance to the Malay society, but to create an administrative machinery and infrastructure that could act as a catalyst to mobilize, to motivate, to galvanize the energies within the Malay society in a more organized, disciplined, systematic, and above all, in a more productive way towards their socio-economic upliftment. It is this principle that the special committee should address itself and make the necessary recommendations to the Government. I realize that working within the concept of meritocracy, no particular section of the society should be rendered any privileged treatment. But, on the other hand, in a multi-racial society it is, to me, untenable for a particular section of the society to be identified with poverty and deprivation. Thus, an honourable solution must be worked out. The Government, I am sure, has taken cognizance of this, of the special circumstances and of the special problems facing the Malay society, and is undoubtedly sincere in working towards alleviating this problem. The Malay society, on the other hand, should not see this as a total responsibility of the Government per se. They must also play their role. They must free themselves from this minority syndrome, They must free themselves from this crutch mentality, for otherwise they will forever be trapped into a mendicant society. Therefore, the Government should work towards a situation where whatever form of assistance given is to enable the Malays to help themselves free from this poverty trap. With this self-help and self-reliance concept, the Malays will bring upon themselves the honour and dignity they earn. The odds they face are formidable. But they are not by any means insurmountable.”
“It is within this context, Mr Speaker, Sir, of wanting to uplift the general well-being of the Malays that the First Deputy Prime Minister has recently suggested the formation of a special committee to address itself to this problem. Coming as it were from the striker of the new leadership, this suggestion has been well received by the Malay public. However, let me throw a caveat to this issue, lest it is seen as the panacea to solve the social ills for the Malays. It is recognized that collectively the Malays are lagging behind in educational and economic fields. Much exhortation and much rhetoric have gone by, urging every Malay to strive for higher education and better jobs. But the rate of progress is pathetically slow. It is now realized that some form of governmental impetus is needed to accelerate this slow progress. I want to quote two positive examples. One is the mosque building fund programme. With the administrative and manpower support from the Government, the mosque building fund programme is a shining example of the self-help and self-reliance concept in advancing the religious aspects of the Malay society. Similarly, Mr Speaker, Sir, having the same potential for success is Mendaki, that is, the Council on Education for Muslim Children. Here again, the support forth-coming from the Government in allowing Muslims to voluntarily, may I repeat, to voluntarily contribute to Mendaki through the CPF machinery augurs well for the increased progress of the Malays in the field of education.”
“In a nutshell, Mr Speaker, Sir, Singaporeans from cradle to grave will be well looked after and he should, of course, count his blessings. Perhaps this small quotation from a newspaper would be appropriate, at this juncture, to illustrate my point. I quote from the Singapore Monitor of 27 February, 1985, from a Singaporean who writes: 'My follow Singaporeans, let us be frank with ourselves. The PAP has done extremely well to make Singapore what it is today. I am very proud of our beloved notion and its efficient leadership. For those PAP critics, my advice to you is this: Look around you - a city so beautiful and green with modern sky-scrapers, countless eating places, people free to lead lives of their own, abundant jobs, nice homes, no fear of chaos and disturbance, racial harmony, and a chance to have a bright future as long as people are willing to work hard. When I read about the instability and struggling economies of many developing nations, I consider myself very fortunate.' My message, Mr Speaker, Sir, in this brief preamble is a simple one, and that is, the present leadership has adopted an integrated and total approach to nation building where every citizen and every Singaporean has a stake and every citizen can contribute according to his worth and ability. However, in this march towards a more intense modernization process, there will always be the less endowed and the less able who will be unable to achieve what they set out to do. This is the 15 to 20% lower income group who form the significant minority. Needless to say, Singaporeans of the Malay ethnic group form a sizable proportion of this significant minority.”
“Hers, for convenience, may I just borrow Shakespeare's classification of the different stages in life that one has got to go through, of course, with some modifications, and to examine that during these different stages the Singapore that Singaporeans inherit now and in the future will make his life-cycle a more orderly, a more enriching and, above all, a peaceful one. Let me begin from the time of his conception in his mother's womb. Through our improved maternal and child health care services, he is already ensured of a good start in life. After being born and going into the second stage of childhood, his health and education are well looked after. He is immunized against major diseases - smallpox, diphtheria, measles, rubella. And he is given a good health screening while he is in school and, during his childhood days, he also receives an education best suited to his ability. He then proceeds to his third stage of adolescence. Here, he is further grounded in a good general education. He is further given a good dosage of self-discipline during his military service. And when he enters adulthood, that is, his fourth stage in life, if he is not too choosy, he is assured of a decent job with a decent salary. After being gainfully employed for several years, he may decide to enter his fifth stage, and that is, his nuptial kingdom. And at this stage he is able to secure a home for himself and his family. But when he reaches his sixth stage, that is, when he graduates to become a senior citizen, or an elderly citizen, he can be assured that his society will give him the due regard, the due care and respect, and from this penultimate stage of his life, he crosses to his final stage and, God willing, he will be given a decent and honourable burial.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of the motion made in the name of the hon. Member for Ayer Rajah. Mr Speaker, Sir, the Presidential Address unveils a new horizon for Singapore. It spells out the next lift-off or another big leap for Singapore into a more exciting and a more dynamic era. Singaporeans can look forward to a much more pleasant and a much more enriching environment where the citizens can live in better planned and better organized satellite towns, where they can travel unhindered along the wonderful expressways, where they can walk along the clean streets and thoroughfares, breathe the unpolluted air and also stroll along almost crime-free streets and they can also, for those who are more athletic, jog and exercise in salubrious environment. In the offices and factories we will have citizens who will be productively oriented. In the skies and in the waterfront, we will see planes from the major international airlines and also ships from the different oceans coming to Singapore and, through our telecommunications network, Singapore will be plugged into all the global information centres. Mr Speaker, Sir, this is the Singapore of our future, and in the Presidential Address it is stated that every Singaporean has an honoured place in this island republic, and indeed he has. And Singapore will ensure that his life span in Singapore will be a meaningful one. Let me just briefly sketch what is in store for a Singaporean during his life-cycle in Singapore.”
“Sir, I am encouraged by the almost point for point reply by the Minister, and I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.”
“Sir, actually the estimates are correct, on the items that were originally put in. But we had to put in additional items of work over time, so there was a lapse of time, and during that period surely costs had gone up. This is a combination of two factors as I said. The re-raking of the proposed auditorium was not included in the original estimates. This item came in at a later stage. A revision of the costs had to be made and over that time, inflation has set in. These two items have added up to the new cost of $12.8 million.”
“But the major part of this increase over the original estimate of $6.4 million is due to inflation, as he has rightly suspected or mentioned, and the breakdown is as follows. The increase due to inflation is $3,267,550. Secondly, the increase due to additional items of work because of deterioration of plant and equipment is $1,198,315. And, thirdly, the increase due to proposed reraking of auditorium seating, which I mentioned, to improve the sight-lines will cost about $1,950,000. That gives a total of an additional $6.4 million or thereabouts. So this apparent delay is partly a combination of two factors, inflation as well as the revision of the original cost estimates that we had to make. This work at Kallang Theatre will commence sometime in November 1983 and is due for completion in May 1985.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I have been asked to reply on behalf of my Minister. The hon. Member for Punggol has raised three points regarding this amendment. First, he would like to know the usage and seating capacity of this new Kallang Theatre. He may be pleased to know that the Kallang Theatre which will be converted into a concert hall-cum-theatre will have a seating capacity of 1,900 and it will be used for cultural as well as entertainment oriented performances. It can also be used for other purposes and these include large-scale dance and musical shows. It will include performances like ballet, a variety-type presentation and operas. It will also be converted to facilitate the SBC to have live TV transmissions as well as recordings of performances. If it is necessary, it can also be used for ceremonial functions that require a large auditorium. As to his second point regarding the apparent delay, may I say that there are two reasons why there seems to be an apparent delay. First, it is because there was a need to revise the cost estimates and to seek additional funds for this renovation. Secondly, it is because of the inflation that is happening today. Additional items of work will be required because of the deterioration of plant and equipment and also the need to improve the auditorium sight-lines to provide unobstructed viewing by the audience. There is some apparent delay as the Member mentioned because some time was required in finding an experienced theatre consultant to assist in this project. Sir, if I may be permitted to give a breakdown as to why costs have escalated. Originally, the estimated cost of renovation was $6.5 million and an addi- tional 6.4 million had to be sought and approved, bringing the total to $12.8 million.”
“(12) That the sum to be allocated for Head L be reduced by $10 in respect of Subhead LE-01 Object Group 3110 of the Main Estimates.”
“Sir, I am relieved by the assurance of the Minister of State, and I beg leave to withdraw. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The time allotted for Head L having expired, the following amendments were not proceeded with:-”
“Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head L be reduced by $10 in respect of Subhead LC-04 Object Group 2610 of the Main Estimates.* Sir, in moving this amendment I am a little concerned about the three items under this Subhead of Extra-Curricular Activities or ECA which have no allocations made for them. Whilst it is encouraging to observe that there is an overall increase in the estimated expenditure for ECA, the three items, which have no provision in this year's estimates, constitute to my mind an integral part of ECA. These are in the area of the youth festival, camping for pupils and teachers, and combined schools sports activities. It is acknowledged among the school population that the youth festival marks the culmination of the varied school ECA activities in the form of either a mammoth pageantry, drama festival or other exhibitions of the pupils' creative works. Perhaps the Minister could enlighten this House as to this dramatic turn or volte-face regarding one of the most interesting and entertaining events in the Ministry's ECA annual calendar. As regards school camp for pupils, I hope there is no contradiction between what has publicly been said and what is intended to be done. I am happy that the Ministry is able to get additional sites for camps. However, in the additional camp sites, in spite of the most encouraging response by the schools as reported in the press, there is no provision in this year's estimates. Could the Minister enlighten this House on this matter? And by the same token of argument, I am unable to understand why there is an absence of provision for this year's combined schools sports activities. Sir, on those three points, may I have some clarifications from the Minister?”
“He also stated that Singapore workers are in a state of serfdom or considered as slaves. He forgets that the serfs that he referred to are enjoying a high standard of living, as evidenced by the fact that many of them own flats. Figures from the HDB show that year after year more and more workers from the lower income group own flats, and the percentage will rise from 70% to 80% in the years to come. Do not these workers, whom the Member considers as slaves, own properties, since they own flats? Does the Member for Anson not realize this fact? We say here and now that he deliberately does not want to see the facts staring in his face. Let me remind him that during a previous debate the Minister for Trade and Industry tabled concrete data to show that the level of prosperity of the people of Singapore has risen over the years. And the Member for Anson concluded his speech by charging that the amendment is the last rites for trade unionism in Singapore.-- However, unfortunately he does not want to accept the fact that as a result of this amendment a new lease of life, a new movement, will be given to the trade unions and that the workers will be able to face the challenges of the future. I see that he is a person who is certainly wise in matters of this nature, but I cannot reconcile myself that his wisdom falls far short of the arguments that he put forward in this debate. 6.16 p.m.”
“This is not because the Malaysian Government loves eastern countries but because it has been found that what have been implemented by those countries are correct, rational, and in keeping with changing times. I will not add to what has already been said by my colleagues in this Chamber, but I would like to give my views on a number of points raised by the Member for Anson. He has stated that in fact in Singapore there is no trade union in the real sense of the word. I admire his dexterity in twisting facts or in diverting attention from the real objectives and the noble aspirations of the people as embodied in the amendment. The real fact which he himself chooses not to see is that in Singapore there exists trade unions a la Singapore. The truth is that in Singapore there exist trade unions which have the characteristics of a Singapore identity. The fact is that in Singapore the workers and employers have realized that the old-type of unions are no longer relevant to the new era in Singapore. That is the real fact which the Member for Anson refuses to see and ignores. His views remind us that he is still clouded by the colonial mentality because the pattern of our trade unions was the result of what we inherited from British trade unions. And if we continue along that model, we will end up like the trade unions in Great Britain which have brought misery upon the workers there. Is the Member for Anson prepared to go back in time? Is not the Member for Anson aware of the proverbial Malay saying, "At every flood the sand is altered"? (The laws and regulations change with every new setup). A changing situation enables us to analyse the new situation. It is only in the concept of change and continuity that we will be able to vouch for our progress and stability.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, allow me to put forward my views concerning the amendments in this Bill which is being debated now. In my view, there are three reasons why it is necessary that the Trade Unions (Amendment) Bill should be introduced. Firstly, this amendment is appropriate and timely because it can be harmonized with the industrial climate which we are now experiencing. Secondly, in my opinion, this amendment if approved can ensure higher productivity which by itself will bring prosperity to our workers in particular and our country in general. Thirdly, I wish to add that with this amendment it goes without saying that trade unions will be protected from the activities of undesirable elements in the trade unions whose intention is to ride on the backs of the trade unions for their own ends. From the viewpoint of the spirit and content of this Bill, let not only a handful of trade unionists be conscious of this Bill, but it must be understood and practised by every member of a trade union. We are confident that the trade unions which have thus far achieved a high level of education and attained sophistication over the years will accept this amendment naturally and rationally. Earlier, the Hon. Minister who proposed the amendment said that we have offered our impression in regard to the changes that are taking place in South Korea and Japan. I feel that this view is not a 'yes-man' view, but because what has happened in those countries have brought benefits to the countries concerned as well as to their people. We are also informed that the Prime Minister of our neighbouring country has himself propounded the view that they are looking to the East, or Look East Policy.”
“Sir, on the answers given by the Minister, there are encouraging signs that things are going for the better. On that note, I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $40,623,630 for Head V ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. The sum of $6,750,400 for Head V ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates.”
“Sir, I beg to move, That the total sum to be allocated for Head V of the Main Estimates be reduced by $100. Sir, I shall confine my comments to the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS). May I at the outset congratulate the Majlis for the good work it is doing and doing it with increasing tact and patience. But of late, I am of the opinion that the Majlis is feeling the manpower constraint in wanting to embark on new areas of work. The present strength of 12 Majlis members is not adequate compared to the volume of work it has to do and much more work it has to fulfil. My shortlived experience and service, regretfully, with the Majlis strengthens my belief that in order not to overburden the Majlis members who are serving part-time anyway, the Ministry should seriously consider increasing the present strength of the Majlis. The second point I wish to touch on is in regard to its present premises. For a statutory body like MUIS, the present premises that it is occupying is in no way comparable to the premises of other statutory bodies. The conference room, to cite an example, though functional, is dull and drab. It is ironical that some of the conference rooms of the satellite mosques which MUIS helped to build are far superior to that of the MUIS itself. Foreign visitors, including important government dignitaries from Islamic countries, very often visit MUIS. I am therefore interested to know whether the Ministry has future plans for MUIS to have its own premises. The other point that I wish to touch on is with regard to the appointment of an accountant. But since the Minister has pre-empted it with his answer to the first Member who raised the point, I only wish to raise the first two points.”
“Sir, in view of the answers given by the Hon. Minister, I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment by leave, withdrawn. The time allotted for Head L having expired, the following amendment standing in the name of Encik Wan Hussin Zoohri was not proceeded with:- (7) That the total sum to be allocated for Head L of the Development Estimates be reduced by $100. The sum of $749,496,100 for Head L ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. The sum of $235,072,000 for Head L ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. Head V -”
“The Minister has mentioned that he is very concerned with the morale of teachers. But it seems to me that although much has been said about things to be done, communication seems to reach only at certain levels of the hierarchy. And more often than not, the teachers do not get much of the publicity early as expected. In one of the recommendations made in the Goh Report under the section on morale of teachers, if I may be permitted to quote, it says: 'The Director of Education should brief principals and selected teachers from schools on major policy changes before these are publicized and implemented. This will ensure that teachers will not be the last to know of these changes.' Therefore, I would like to ask the Minister whether his Ministry will be reporting to Parliament in the not too distant future on the status of our education system, as required in the additional amendment moved by the Member for Kampong Chai Chee on 28th March, 1979, and I quote from Hansard, Vol. 39, col. 93: '... that the Minister of Education do report to Parliament after 2 or 3 years on the progress, unresolved problems and state of implementation of the revised structure of education.' Mr Speaker, Sir, if other hon. Members and myself are seen to have raised more questions - 3.40 p.m.”
“In my humble observation, there seems to exist between the HQ and the schools a kind of "cultural-lag" or "cultural-gap". This cultural-lag exists, to my mind, at two levels. One is the psychological level and the other is the intellectual level. On the psychological level, it seems to me that the personnel in HO are totally committed to increasing professional standards. However, I am not too sure if this total commitment exists in the schools for a variety of reasons. On the intellectual level, the HQ, with all the expertise at its disposal, is far ahead on educational issues and developments, so much so that the schools feel that they cannot keep up with the pace and tempo set by the HQ. Rightly so, the Ministry of Education is trying to remedy these by improving its communication system with the schools. The Schools Council, it seems to me, only reaches the principals. When the message is given to the teachers through the principals, very often some distortion or variation takes place. This is the common trait or characteristic in any oral tradition which is being handed down. In this respect, why can the Ministry of Education not find some ways of reaching the teachers direct? May I suggest that the Ministry of Education meet the teachers at least once a term on a zonal basis. There are enough Junior Colleges to accommodate the teachers in each zone. Here, a face-to-face dialogue on the educational changes would help bridge this cultural-lag that seems to exist on the psychological and intellectual levels. If the Ministry of Education can talk to the Members of Parliament and the principals, surely it can find time to talk to the teachers. Recently, the Minister for Trade and Industry had a successful meeting with the Residents' Committees of Ang Mo Kio - 3.25 p.m.”
“Some of the changes, which are laudable in their intentions but have resulted in causing anxieties and uncertainties among the teachers and the public, include the following: (i) In the course of reorganizing the Ministry of Education, "The dismantling of the Education Development Division caused much anguish in the (teaching) profession." [Quoted from the Addendum to the President's Address on the Ministry of Education.] (ii) The streaming exercise has and is still causing much psychological and emotional uncertainties to the public. (iii) The controversy over the release of the PSLE results has enhanced these psycho-emotional anxieties. (iv) The suggestions made on the dissolution of the teachers' unions have aroused much public discussion both within and outside the teaching profession. However, on the other side of the coin, there have been other changes which are, to my mind, generally acceptable to the teachers. These include, among other things: (i) The revision made to the Education Scheme of Service in 1979. (ii) The liberalization and the encouragement given to non-graduate teachers to gain admission into the University. (iii) The various language courses at the Language Project Centre and the British Council to increase the teachers' proficiency in English. (iv) The setting up of the CDIS and the various projects being undertaken. (v) The proposed Senior Education Service. Putting these changes on an educational balance sheet, how do we see the results? I would say that considering the short time of just over 2 1/2 years, much has been done towards raising professionalism. But the basic question is still being asked: i.e. what is the morale in the teaching profession? As I have said earlier, at best It is still fluctuating.”
“Sir, I would now like to make some general observations on the education system and its effects on the teaching profession vis-a-vis the morale of the teachers. When the Minister for Finance informed the House that the morale of the workers in the Civil Service is excellent, I sincerely hope that it includes the teachers in the Civil Service too. However, indications are that the morale of teachers is fluctuating with the tide of the educational policy changes. The survey by STU seems to indicate that the fluctuation is higher on the negative side. But let us look at the educational scenario and try to re-trace some of the major developments in order to arrive at a more balanced picture. First, we need to look at its objectives as spelt out in the Goh Report, 1978. Two fundamental points stand out clearly. The first is to reduce wastage by allowing each child to learn and develop at his own rate or pace. The second is to produce school leavers who are literate in at least one language. How can these be achieved? As I see it, this is being done by upgrading the professional standards both at HQ and in the schools. Thus, the strategy which the Ministry is adopting now is the multi-pronged approach towards upgrading professionalism and attacking the problems on different fronts. It is in the course of initiating these changes along this multi-pronged approach that has given rise to the ups and downs of public response, including the teachers themselves.”
“However, one aspect of this educational innovation is in the construction of teaching materials through the module system. Perhaps the CDIS would consider examining the feasibility of producing curriculum packages along the module system especially for pupils of below average ability. The module system has within it the learning of specific skills in a particular subject, along certain definite stages. Learning through the module system along these stages will, of course, enhance the pupils' sense of achievement and confidence. One other possibility is to use these module packages as supplementary materials whereby the pupils could work on them at their own time, either during the week-end or during the holidays. I now turn to the Ministry of Education's School Building Programme. Much to our delight, the HDB will now build schools together with the houses, and the Ministry of Finance will foot the bill on school buildings. There is, however, one other small contribution which the Ministry of Education could request the HDB to do. This is in the area of beautifying the school premises. Up to now when the schools are ready for occupation, the premises is devoid of any greenery in the form of plants and trees. It is left to the school principal concerned (sometimes the principal will not be appointed immediately) to work his way to beautify the surroundings. In this connection, the Ministry of Education could invite the Parks and Recreation Department to be involved in its building programme. The expertise available in the Parks and Recreation Department could help in enhancing the physical, aesthetic beauty of our schools. The Department is doing a good job in beautifying our roads. This could, of course, be extended to our schools.”
“Sir, I beg to move, That the total sum to be allocated for Head L of the Main Estimates be reduced by $100. Sir, a teacher-in-training is very often told by his supervisor to provide some time at the end of his lesson for, what is commonly termed, recapitulation. This is not a jargon. This is a layman's term. As I am the last Member to move amendments on the Main and Development Estimates for his Ministry, I shall treat my comments as a recapitulation or a resume of what has been said previously. As such, there is bound to be some overlapping and I hope the House will bear with me. Sir, before touching on the general issues, I would like to mention two specific items. The first is the Curriculum Development Institute. With the setting up of the CDIS at Kent Ridge and sparing the CDIS of the "bureaucratic interference" of the Ministry of Education, the Institute is now on a steady road towards curriculum development. As of now, there are 17 project teams concentrating on English and Chinese languages, Mathematics and Science. CDIS is also developing supplementary and suitable materials for the monolingual courses. We are also informed that when more talented teachers have been identified, more project teams will be formed. Sir, the Ministry of Education is sending groups of teachers to the Innotech Centre in Manila and to-date there is a sizeable number of teachers and senior officers who have returned from attending courses there. One of the many items made known to the course participants was the Project Impact. I am told that this project, described as one of the many successful educational innovations in the region, is more relevant to other countries in South-east Asia than to us.”
“Sir, can I just make a short observation on the answer given by the Minister of Education? From the statistics given, it seems to me that only about 70 or 80 schools make use of the camping sites at the St. John's Island, and we know that in Singapore there are more than 120 secondary schools. In terms of numbers, I think there were many schools which did not have the chance of attending these camps at St. John's Island. Perhaps the Ministry of Education could look into the possibility of scouting for some other suitable islands as camp sites. The camp sites at St. John's Island are very good and it has got a good land area where the sea is available and the facilities are there. Perhaps in the not too distant future the Ministry will look into other areas for camp sites so that all schools will have camps at least once a year rather than compete for this limited space at St. John's Island.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, it is amazing how the Minister for National Development has been answering all the barrage of questions with such dexterity and giving us an avalanche of answers. It seems to me that the Minister has given us very fatherly answers all the time, keeping all the older sons like me at ease. On that note, I respectfully beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $215,033,670 for Head T ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. The sum of $1,905,469,200 for Head T ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY REPORTING PROGRESS (Suspension of Standing Orders) With the consent of Mr Speaker and the general assent of Members present, Question put, and agreed to. Resolved, "That, notwithstanding the Standing Orders, progress be reported now and leave be asked to sit again tomorrow." - [Mr E.W. Barker]. Thereupon Mr Speaker left the Chair of the Committee and took the Chair of the House.”
“One of them is "better environmental design." I would now like to turn my attention to the children's playing area in housing estates. It is again commendable that the land space between the blocks has been turned into a play area for the benefit of children. See-saws, sand pits, concrete tunnels and other physical structures have been put up in this play area. It is further observed that to give an aesthetic appearance to these structures, the HDB has created a physical semblance of animals out of these concrete structures. May I appeal, Sir, to the HDB that other forms of animal which have cultural connections with the different ethnic groups be created. For example, where space is available, it would be more in tune with the spirit of our multi-cultural society to have side by side the physical structure of the dragon, the Sang Kancil and the Hanuman, each having its own cultural roots - the dragon with Chinese mythology, the Sang Kancil with Malay folklore, the Hanuman with the Indian epic, Ramayana. Mr Speaker, Sir, what more could we ask when we see a mother playing with her child in this play area and telling her child the mythology and folklore as symbolized by these animals? Here, physical exercise could well be very educational too.”
“Sir, I beg to move, That the total sum to be allocated for Head T of the Development Estimates be reduced by $100. Sir, among the brick-bats and bouquets given to the Minister for National Development, allow me to add one small bouquet, and that is the completion of the dual carriageway along Jalan Eunos. The long overdue development of the Jalan Eunos dual carriageway has been finalized and I notice that traffic is flowing very smoothly. Related to that, the landscaping of this area is showing signs of beautiful surroundings. Being the last speaker, Mr Speaker, Sir, many of the points that I would like to raise have already been touched on by hon. Members. But allow me to make some observations. The first one is with regard to the road-widening of Eunos Crescent in my Eunos Housing Estate. I must thank the Minister for the answers given me to my letter pertaining to this subject in question. However, I find it rather unusual why the HDB would want to expand the existing Eunos Crescent Road now when the physical structures, such as the buildings and roads, have been built according to the original plan. Moreover, the residents have settled down rather happily and comfortably. I appreciate the rationale behind the need for these improvements. But the present inconvenience could have been avoided had these improvements been included in the original plan of building the housing estate. Again, the cost would have been less then. Is this not an example of ad hoc or piecemeal planning? After all, when the residents chose this estate, it was on the original setting and layout of the estate - small size and comparatively peaceful. Mr Speaker, Sir, in the HDB's Annual Report 1979-80, three main tasks have been identified for the future.”
“It is the backdrop which was in two languages.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, from the reply given as to why the four languages were not used in the back-drop at the recent PA anniversary function, I am not too convinced. The People's Association is a very important association in terms of nation building and also in terms of national integration. It can be seen as a very good instrument for national integration. I think, Sir, in a function of such importance where we have citizens from all walks of life, of different cultures and levels of education, of different sentiments, it would not be harmful to put a logo of that nature with four languages because these are the visible signs of national integration. A layman does not know very much about economics. To him, what he sees symbolizes certain things and the sentiments of every local citizen in terms of their attachments to the nation will be affected. So I believe that this little bit of economics could be spared against the importance of a high-level objective. In this case particularly, we, Members of Parliament, and especially myself, have had some unsalutary feedback as a result of seeing this logo in such a manner.”
“With the limited experience I have in the Teachers' Union, I can safely say that the Executive Committee in the union receives valuable feed-back from the teachers. Perhaps the Ministry would consider most favourably the inclusion of representatives from the various Teachers' Unions in theproposed Schools Council. Mr Speaker, Sir, the popularity (or some critics would prefer to say, the notoriety) of the Ministry of Education is evident from the response given to the Ministry's policies by the public. The magnitude and complexities of educational issues and problems are appreciated by many. Just on the Addendum to the Presidential Address, we have been presented with 16 items for debate. I am sure many more equally important items are in store for future debates. What I would like to reiterate here is that, in the course of formulating and implementing the policies, let us not lose sight of one cardinal principle, that is, what ultimately counts is the person. Whatever happens in the schools depends on the men and women who staff them. It is worth reminding ourselves of a UNESCO Report on education which says: '. . good school buildings, sufficient educational equipment and a perfect curriculum will be dead things if there are no educated teachers to give them life.' Mr Speaker, Sir, let us by all means educate our pupils, and educate them well, but we should not forget to keep educating our teachers, too. 2.47 p.m. PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION FROM CANADA (Presence In Gallery)”
“The objective of the Schools Council is to establish an ongoing two-way communication between the HQ and the schools so that, through the Principals, the schools will be involved in the decision-making process. This involvement in the decision-making process will enhance the feeling of shared ownership and of being part of a collective enterprise. However, the feeling of shared ownership is not enough without the "feeling of self-efficacy". In other words, in the shared decision-making process it should logically lead to shared influence on the decisions made. To illustrate, a teacher serving in a committee feels efficacious if he contributes in the area of curriculum design an improved course for the students. His feeling of self-efficacy is increased if his recommended course is actually adopted and he sees the students enjoying and learning from the recommended course. In a recent article in the Educational Administration Quarterly (Winter 1980) published by the University Council for Educational Administration, the following reminder has relevance with the question of involvement in the decision-making process. 'Since the benefits of shared decision-making accrue, not from mere involvement, but rather from a combination of involvement and influence, it would seem unwise to offer opportunities for shared decision-making which do not include provisions for actual influence over decisions.' It would, therefore, be an exercise in futility if the Schools Council turns out to be the "rubber stamping agent" for the policies of the HQ. As for the composition of the Schools Council, the Ministry of Education has wittingly or otherwise excluded the Teachers' Union.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I would now like to refer to the Senior Education Service (SES). It is strange that the Ministry of Education took two years to realise and admit its failure in attracting good officers into the HQ. One would have thought that with the support of the systems engineers, this crucial area would have been identified earlier and remedies already suggested. However, it is heartening to note that this proposal has now been announced. This proposal, however, begs many questions. The key posts in the HQ and the schools have still to be named and what the minimum requirements are for application into the SES have yet to be stipulated. As this SES caters only for the bright and selected few in the teaching profession, the promotion prospects for those remaining in the upper timescale have yet to be looked into. As a practitioner in the teaching profession, I agree that whilst it is desirable to have good officers in the HQ it is much more important to have dedicated and contented teachers in the classrooms. With the previous mode of promotion exercise left unresolved an alternative mode of the advancement prospects for the general teachers should be considered. Perhaps the Ministry of Education would be able to draw up the career-path of the teacher from the time he joins the service up to the point he retires. In this career-path a teacher would be able to know what are the requirements spelt out in the career-path at each rung of the promotion ladder and the time-kame between each rung. This would serve as a permanent guide to the teachers in trying to better their prospects and performance in the teaching profession. In the area of communication, the Ministry of Education has suggested the establishment of the Schools Council.”
“Would the gradual build-up of the moral education programme for the primary level and strengthened at the lower secondary level with all its attendant benefits give way to the academic exercise of accumulating religious facts, seemingly divorced from our original objectives of moral education? Here, I must emphasise that I am not for one moment against the study of religions. My reservation is that in trying to improve the GCE 'O' level results, teachers and students may lose sight of the original and laudable objectives of our moral education programme as enunciated in the Ong Teng Cheong Report. I recall that in the midfifties there were non-Christians who were able to score credits in scripture for their School Certificate Examinations. May I, therefore, appeal that the syllabus and methodology in the moral education program me for the upper secondary level be so structured that the students not only will be able to perform well in the examination but, more important, discover and experience the joy and contentment emanating from their moral and religious lessons. One other aspect is the introduction of comparative religion in the curriculum. We should in this respect tread very cautiously. Perhaps the Ministry of Education would allow the syllabus on comparative religion to be commented by knowledgeable people in their area of religious specialization. Comparative religion as viewed by occidentalists may not be quite in focus with the views of local orientalists. I would also like to add that before the subject of comparative education is introduced in the curriculum, suitable teachers need to be trained. It is logical that qualified lecturers should first be recruited by the Institute of Education to train our teachers in this subject.”
“Confucianist ethics, Malay traditions, and the Hindu ethos must be combined with sceptical Western methods of scientific inquiry, the open discursive methods in the search for truth. We have to discard obscurantist and superstitious beliefs and practices of the East, as we have to reject the passing fads of the West. Particularly important are intra-family relationships. We must reinforce these traditional family ties found in all Asian societies. But we must excise the nepotism which usually grows out of this extended family net of mutual help.' The question which arises is whether the Moral Education programme in schools would be able to contribute to the achievement of these moral objectives. The answer will only be known many, many years from hence. Nevertheless, certain observations can be made from the Moral Education programme of the Ministry of Education. It would appear that there is compartmentalisation in the approach and presentation of the programme. For the primary and the lower secondary level, the approach and presentation is more integrated with suitable activities structured in the syllabus. In its favour, it is religious-free though not totally culture-free. But for the upper secondary level the approach and presentation would appear academic and bookish. It is clearly religious bias. The linkage, it seems to me, in methodology between the primary and lower secondary level on the one hand and the upper secondary level on the other appears rather weak. I am aware that for the upper secondary level Religious Education is examination oriented. Herein, therefore, lies the problem.”
“As for the question of self-renewal in the political leadership, a subject gaining great currency within and outside this Parliament, the systematic search for men and women of calibre, integrity, dedication and commit- ment must surely continue. Both the political and the bureaucratic leadership must be injected with a constant flow of new ideas which are in consonance with the changing mood and complexities of not only the electorate but the society at large. Hopefully, in this search and scanning process not only the right men but also the right women matching the criteria and demands of present-day politics will emerge. Mr Speaker, Sir, I would now like to refer to the Ministry of Education Addendum to the Presidential Address. On the question of Moral Education, the Addendum mentioned that the Ong Teng Cheong Report would form the basis of the new approach in the teaching and learning of Moral Education in schools. The Ong Tong Cheong Report also emphasized that the principal objective is to "produce good, useful and loyal citizens through the inculcation of the desired moral values and social attitudes". This principle is derived from the description of the ideal Singaporean made by the Prime Minister in his response to the Report on the Ministry of Education, 1978. However, I would like to add that the profile of the good Singaporean outlined by the Prime Minister in his same response to the Education Report is equally relevant to this subject of Moral Education. For its aptness it is worth repeating. I quote: 'The best of the East and of the West must be blended to advantage in the Singaporean.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, in my three-minute speech yesterday I made reference to our economic success amidst seemingly insurmountable problems. Mr Speaker, Sir, looking at Singapore's many-sided progress, in retrospect, critics have attributed many factors for the success. I would, however, like to mention one other factor which has to my mind been cultivated and cultured over these years by the present leadership. This is what one Harvard psychologist termed it as the "mental virus" in the individual. It is "that certain way of thinking that is relatively rare but which, when it occurs in an individual, tends to make him behave in a peculiarly energetic way". The "mental virus" is given an odd name of n Ach, an acronym for "need for Achievement". It is this "mental virus" or the n Ach content in the individual which has to do with "doing something well" and "doing something better". It is this "mental virus" or the high n Ach content prevalent in the political leadership and transmitted to the general population that has, over these years, contributed to the success of our modernisation programme. Mr Speaker, Sir, the political scenario at the international as well as at the regional level has indeed become more and more discomforting. Of immediate concern to us is still the Kampuchean problem. Present political developments with their high degree of unpredictability could adversely affect any country with such speed that leaves the affected nation little time to react. It is in this context that countries, like ours, not very far from centres of conflict should always be vigilant and have that maximum capability to meet external eventualities. As such, the strengthening of our reserves in the Armed Forces is all the more important and urgent.”
“Many a time we have survived different crises. The events of the post-separation of the 60s, and 70s provide ample testimony of how we survived amidst the seemingly insurmountable problems. I am, therefore, confident that given the effective leadership as we have known it till today, we will, barring major economic crisis and political catastrophe beyond our control, achieve our economic objectives. Nevertheless, the ground rules towards achieving "identity of interest among employers, management and labour" as outlined in the Presidential Address must be observed by all parties concerned.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise to join my colleagues in this House in support of the Motion moved by the Member for Mountbatten thanking the President for his Address delivered at the opening of the First Session of the Fifth Parliament. When the President delivered his Address at the Second Session of the Fourth Parliament on 26th December 1978, three major factors were mentioned. They were the economic downturn at the close of 1970s, the spill-over of the Vietnam-Kampuchean clashes into Thailand, and the important domestic issue of the next political leadership. In his recent Address, the President mentioned three tasks confronting Singapore in the 1980s. These are the building of a modern industrial society, the importance of having strong reserves in the Armed Forces, and again the question of self-renewal in the political leadership. It is observed that, apart from a slight variation in presentation, the factors mentioned in both the Presidential Address of December 1978 and that of February 1981 still revolve around the crucial themes of our economic performance, our .security and defence capability and the urgency of transfer of political leadership. Since December 1978 the world economic scene has not changed for the better. In fact, it is getting more gloomy everyday. From the economic downturn of the late 70s, the world is heading for a deeper recession. But even against this sombre economic backdrop we have set our economic path towards building a modern industrial society. This may appear a strange principle to follow, trying to battle through very unfavourable economic weather and hoping to arrive at our destination safely and unscathed. The principle may, however, appear strange but not the results as past events have proved.”