Singapore Sports Council (Amendment) Bill

Mr Speaker, I rise in support of this Bill. The amendments before us expand SportSG's remit in ways that reflect how Singaporeans actually engage with sport today. Chess, bridge and e-sports are no longer just recreational pastimes but are competitive disciplines that demand mental rigour, fill stadiums and attract global audiences in the millions. This Bill's inclusion of mind sports and e-sports in our definition of sports signals that Singapore recognises competitive excellence wherever it emerges.

The Bill also empowers SportSG to establish institutions for elite athlete development, to accredit coaches and facilities, and to support athletes beyond their competitive years. These are practical expansions that will strengthen our sporting ecosystem from grassroots to podium.

But as we broaden SportSG's mandate, we must also sharpen our oversight. Expansion without accountability risks diluting impact and eroding public trust. So, I raise four areas for greater clarity.

Firstly, on governance and protection in new training institutions.

The Bill grants SportSG authority to establish institutions for developing and training sportspersons. This formalises what already exists in practice. Entities like the Singapore Sports School and the Singapore Sport Institute have been nurturing athletes for years. The consolidation of these institutions, announced earlier this year, is happening alongside this legislative change. Building on the Auditor-General's Office's constructive observations in its recent report regarding procurement, grant management and revenue contracting, we have an opportunity to establish clear governance frameworks that will serve SportSG well as it takes on new responsibilities. Strong institutional safeguards now will protect both athletes and public trust as the organisation evolves.

When we task institutions with the holistic development of young athletes, overseeing not just their training but also their academic curricula and well-being, we are asking them to act in loco parentis. The Safe Sport framework exists and the Safe Sport Commission has made progress since its launch.

I would like to ask the Minister: what governance structures will be put in place to ensure these new or consolidated institutions are accountable not just to SportSG, but to the Parliament and to the public? Will their performance indicators, safeguarding records and funding utilisation be reported to this House annually?

Second, on eligibility and support for e-sports and mind sports athletes. The Bill expands the definition of sports to include mind sports and e-sports. This is welcome. But definitions alone do not open doors. What matters is whether athletes in these disciplines will have the same access to funding, facilities and national representation pathways as their counterparts in athletics or football.

The Singapore Esports Association has announced plans for a national training centre. Chess participation has grown by 20% since 2022. These are encouraging signs. Just over the weekend, we launched an e-sports hub in Bishan Community Centre that is purpose-built for seniors. Perhaps one day we might field an inter-generational team to represent Singapore in our community in e-sports competitions!

Are there plans for e-sports and mind sports athletes to be eligible for Scholarships or the High Performance Sport system grants? Are there long-term plans for mind sports and e-sports associations to receive the same level of institutional support as National Sports Associations (NSAs) in traditional sports?

Thirdly, in transparency in accreditation and certification. The Bill grants SportSG new powers to establish codes of practice for coaching, training, equipment and facilities – and to accredit or certify compliance with those standards. This is a regulatory function, not just a developmental one.

What mechanisms will ensure transparency and accountability in the issuance of coaching accreditations, facility certifications and training programme approvals under the amended Act? Will there be independent review panels for contested decisions? Will accreditation criteria and outcomes be published annually?

Lastly, this Bill also expands SportsSG's remit with regard to planning and promoting physical fitness activities alongside sports, fostering research into physical fitness and establishing codes of practice, guidelines and standards for wider coaching, training and equipment. How will SportSG coordinate with MOE and the Health Promotion Board (HPB) to avoid duplication or conflicts in physical fitness education, coaching standards and public wellness initiatives? Are there plans to dovetail initiatives or align longer-term policy changes where there are overlaps in governmental remit?

Mr Speaker, I support this Bill because it reflects a step forward for our sports sector. Competitive sport forges excellence and resilience in our athletes while anchoring Singapore's global reputation; we cannot be a thriving nation without champions. Recently, I the privilege of meeting our SEA Games medalist Isaiah Tang, who started karate lessons in Bishan Community Centre (CC) when he was just seven years old. In his debut at last year's SEA Games Isaiah came back with a bronze medal. I was greatly touched when he asked about what young athletes like him needed. He did not share immediately about funding or recognition but shared instead about opportunities and exposure to competitions. He is the archetype of a home-grown champion that we as a nation should be proud of.

All the same, support is instrumental for the growth, maturity and further development of home-grown talents like Isaiah. He shared that his family flew up to Thailand to cheer him on at the most recent SEA Games. More than just family support, however, our talent requires the resources and opportunities that institutional support brings. This Bill is a large step in the right direction, to further build up the kampung of support around our natural home-grown athletes and champions; but there is still space to grow.

Mr Speaker, I envision a sports scene for Singapore where all people of all talent are given the resources and opportunity to thrive and excel on the regional and world stage regardless of their upbringing, privilege and family background. Where even those of less privilege, or rather, especially those of less privilege, see a clear path of opportunities to grow, excel, thrive and shine.

The athletes we seek to support are giving the best they have to give; whether they compete on a track, a chessboard, or in an arena; therefore, they also deserve nothing less than the best our country can give.

A nation that invests in sport is investing in more than medals – it is investing in discipline, character and shared pride. As we recognise new forms of competitive excellence, our duty is to ensure that every athlete we support is backed by strong institutions and clear accountability. When we invest in sport, we invest in the kind of country we want to be. Mr Speaker, I support the Bill.

Mr Speaker, I rise to support Singapore Sports Council (Amendment) Bill. Mr Speaker, there is a saying "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together in a team". But today, I want just to add on "If you want to go even further, go together in a bigger team". That is exactly how the Prime Minister described for the "we first" society – we need a village to raise an athlete.

Mr Speaker, before I begin my speech in Mandarin, I would like to declare that I am currently the Vice President of the Singapore Wushu, Dragon and Lion Dance Federation, and also a former national gymnast, coach, judge and managing NSAs.

In my time as a gymnast in 1980s, we had no professional coaches, no professional facilities, needless to say no specialised equipment like today. As schoolmates, we trained one another, learning from books and sheer determination.

I vividly remember my first SEA Games in 1985. We were required to compete in six apparatus, one of the apparatuses is Roman Rings, yet we did not even have the proper equipment to train on. We practised on metal rings instead of the laminated wood. We set up the rings under the blazing sun to train because we did not have a high ceiling hall. Sometimes, the metal rings were so hot causing our palms to burn. And we resorted to training in the night and bear in mind, not much light. Needless to say, when there is rain, we cannot even train. Many of such things happened. Even the training hours, without scientific, we have to train every day from 2.00 pm to 11.00 pm after school. Saturday, Sunday, we train from 8.00 am to 2.00 pm.

That was the reality of being an athlete 40 years ago, driven not by comfort or resources but by passion, resilience and an unwavering commitment to represent Singapore with pride. Mr Speaker, with that, I will now continue my speech in Mandarin.

(In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mr Speaker, I support the Singapore Sports Council (Amendment )Bill.

This amendment makes our sports policy framework more comprehensive and better able to address Singapore's future sporting needs. It not only updates the system, but also better reflects how Singaporeans participate in sports, responding to the lifestyle habits and needs of different age groups.

When I was young, I was a national gymnast. On the gymnastics floor, I learnt not just techniques, but focus, discipline and sportsmanship and these values have stayed with me to this day, benefiting me for life. I still remember the moments of falling down again and again during training, then getting back up and the encouragement and interaction between teammates. The unwavering strength to "take a step forward" is what sports gave me.

Today, when I see residents of different generations exercising at community clubs, neighbourhood parks and schools, I am reminded of the values that sports bring us. Sports make communities more vibrant and the spirit that sports convey transcends time, age and background.

This amendment is to ensure this lifestyle receives better support, a safer environment and a more sustainable direction for development.

First, the amendment updates the definition of "sport" to include mind sports and e-sports within the statutory scope. In our communities, elderly people play chess, young people are passionate about e-sports and children try new physical activities. The forms are different, but they all require strategy, focus and endurance and can also cultivate team spirit. Including these activities in the definition of "sport" allows the Sports Council to more systematically and purposefully support and manage these developments, ensuring they grow on a healthy and safe trajectory. This also reminds us that the value of sports should not be measured only in traditional ways. As long as the direction is right, mind sports and e-sports can, like traditional sports, help participants build confidence, discipline and team spirit.

Second, the amendment expands the Sports Council's functions to formally include physical activities within its scope. More residents are participating in physical activities such as yoga, strength training, fitness classes and running. These activities improve physical and mental health and also create more interaction between neighbours. Including physical activities in the Council's responsibilities means the Government recognises the public value of these activities and provides a clearer framework for promoting community fitness programmes in the future. This will further promote a culture of "Active together", making exercise a lifestyle that more residents can easily and sustainably participate in.

Third, the amendment empowers the Council to establish standards for coaches, facilities and equipment, improving the safety and quality of sporting environments. Regardless of which sport they participate in, residents should be active in safe and reliable environments. Establishing standards can ensure coaches have the necessary capabilities, equipment meets safety requirements and facilities are properly maintained.

But whilst raising standards, we must also ensure we don't inadvertently increase burdens, especially for small sports organisations, community clubs and grassroots coaches. They are often important entry points for children, elderly people and beginners to access sports, and are an indispensable part of the sports ecosystem. True team spirit means giving everyone opportunities, not leaving people behind. When establishing standards, listening widely to opinions and ensuring standards are appropriate can promote the healthy development of the entire sports ecosystem.

Fourth, the amendment further strengthens the institutional foundation for athlete development. Athlete development requires systematic cultivation and stable support, including connections between school, community and national-level training systems. The revision allows the Council to more clearly support training institutions, and makes different training pathways smoother, giving more young people with potential opportunities for continued development.

Fifth, we must also face the resource allocation challenges we may encounter. As sporting forms continue to increase, demand for facilities, programmes and coaching resources will also rise accordingly. Facing these potential challenges, I propose three suggestions:

First, establish a clear outcome-oriented resource framework, prioritising resources in areas that can bring the greatest social benefits. When resources are limited, we must ensure every investment produces maximum public value.

Second, strengthen inter-agency cooperation. Schools, community clubs, sports institutions and businesses have different resources and venues. If we can better share and coordinate, we can benefit more residents without significantly increasing budgets. When resources can be shared, sports can go further and reach more people.

Third, conduct "precision expansion" for programmes that show obvious growth and have long-term benefits for public health. For example, family fitness activities, mind sports and some rapidly growing new programmes can start with small-scale pilots, then gradually expand based on effectiveness.

Resource expansion cannot be blind, but requires precise and detailed planning, ensuring every new investment truly benefits more Singaporeans. At the same time, I would like to propose three considerations for the Government in long-term sports resource planning:

First, as programmes continue to increase, how should resource allocation be based on a national outcomes framework to avoid weakening support for existing community sports? Second, if sporting demand continues to rise, will the Government appropriately expand resources based on long-term public health goals, rather than just redistributing within existing resources? Third, when establishing new standards, how can we ensure standards are reasonable and would not burden small organisations excessively, excluding them from the sports ecosystem?

Mr Speaker, this amendment not only improves the system, but also establishes a more solid foundation for our country's sports ecosystem. Gymnastics training taught me that step by step, with continuous effort, we can create real change. This amendment may not immediately produce champions, but it can help more Singaporeans become healthier, happier and more confident in the sporting ecosystem we are building.

(In English): Mr Speaker, this Bill strengthens our national sports framework, making it more comprehensive and future-ready. It better reflects our Singaporeans of all ages' participation in sports and physical activity today.

As a former national gymnast, I experienced firsthand how sports build not just physical skill, but discipline, focus, resiliency and sportsmanship. These values stayed with me for life and continue to shape who I am today. Sports connects generations and communities. Whether in community clubs, parks or schools, sport builds energy, inclusion and a shared sense of purpose across age and background.

Key enhancements in the Bill: one, updating the definition of "sports". The Bill formally includes mind sports and e-sports. These activities, like traditional sports, require strategy, focus, endurance and teamwork. Including them allows for better governance and support, ensuring healthy and responsible development while recognising changing participation patterns.

Two, expanding the Council's role to include physical activity. Activities, such as yoga, fitness training, aerobics and running, are increasingly popular and contribute significantly to physical and mental well-being. Including these activities affirms their public value and provides a clearer framework to promote active lifestyles across communities.

Three, raising safety and quality through standards. The Bill empowers the Council to set standards for coaches, facilities and equipment, improving safety and quality. At the same time, standards must be proportionate and inclusive, so that small sports organisations, community clubs and grassroots coaches are not overburdened or, worse, excluded.

Four, strengthening athlete development pathways. Athlete development requires coordinated and sustained support, from schools to community, then to national systems. The amendments provide clearer institutional support for training providers and smoother pathways for young athletes to develop their potential.

Managing some of our future challenges. As sports and activities diversify, demand for facilities, programmes and coaches will increase. Thus, I propose: one, a clear, outcomes-based resource framework to maximise social impact; two, stronger cross-sector collaboration among schools, community clubs, sports bodies and even private partners to share resources effectively; three, targeted and phased expansion of high-growth activities with strong public health benefits, starting with pilots and scaling based on outcome.

There are also some long-term considerations that we need to take note. One, how resource allocation can expand without weakening existing community sports. Two, whether resources should grow in line with long-term public health goals or not just reallocated. Three, how new standards can be set without imposing excessive burdens on smaller organisations.

In conclusion, Mr Speaker, this Bill does not just update legislation; it lays a stronger foundation for Singapore's sports ecosystem. As in any sports, progress comes step by step, through consistent effort. This Bill may not immediately produce champions tomorrow, but it will help more Singaporeans become healthier, happier and more confident. For these reasons, I support the Bill.

Mr Speaker, the proposed amendments in this Bill will help Singaporeans from all walks of life lead a more active lifestyle for better mental and physical health. The Bill will also enhance our current system and framework to support and boost the performance standards for our athletes.

I will focus on four aspects: first, supporting active ageing through mind sports; second, engaging youths through e-sports; third, professionalising sport as a career; and last, expanding flexible sports spaces while managing residents' needs.

First, engaging our seniors through active ageing and mind sports. Singapore's rapidly ageing population requires innovative approaches to keep our seniors active, engaged and cognitively healthy. As SportSG continues to expand physical fitness activities under ActiveSG programming, how will the Ministry ensure that the needs and aspirations of our increasing number of seniors are sufficiently catered for?

I commend the great work on offering free workout classes in the community, including many senior-friendly classes, such as "Gold" Zumba or the "Lite" version of KpopX, which are very well-received by my residents. I hope that the funding for this will continue in the long term as it has gotten many seniors to remain active and form social bonds.

I would like to ask if there would be specific funding allocations, training and recruitment of coaches with better understanding of the physical needs and constraints of older men and women to continually deliver on fitness programmes suitable for our seniors?

This Bill recognises mind sports, such as chess, bridge, weiqi and xiangqi, which are very much enjoyed by both our young and our seniors. Mind sports provide participants with intellectual stimulation and social interaction. They are activities that all can enjoy and have fun playing, regardless of age or physical abilities. This accessibility is transformative as it allows for greater inclusivity. Unlike many physical sports that require certain fitness levels or mobility, mind sports can engage seniors competitively while delivering measurable cognitive, mental and social benefits.

For seniors, the benefits of mind sports extend beyond recreation. Research consistently shows that cognitively engaging activities, like chess, reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline. Mind sports foster social connection, reduce isolation and provide structured competitive outlets that build community.

Could the Ministry consider making it a goal to tap on mind sports to support active ageing objectives, by providing more avenues and opportunities for our seniors to remain mentally active as well? How will SportSG leverage mind sports to engage seniors and foster inter-generational bonding? Sir, in Mandarin.

(In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] For seniors, the benefits of mind sports extend beyond recreation. Research shows that cognitively engaging activities like chess reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Mind sports foster social connection, reduce isolation, and provide competitive outlets that build community. Could the Ministry consider making it a goal to tap on mind sports to support active ageing objectives, by providing more opportunities for our seniors to remain mentally active as well? How will SportSG leverage mind sports to engage seniors and foster inter-generational bonding?

(In English): Second, engaging our youths through an evolving sports scene. Our youths are active in an ever-evolving sports scene. E-sports represents a particularly significant opportunity. It is a growing sector that commands massive audiences.

Formal recognition matters deeply to young Singaporeans, including those who excel in e-sports. It signals that their passions are valued, that pathways exist for excellence and that representing Singapore at the SEA Games and Asian Games, where e-sports has been a medal event since 2019 and 2023 respectively, is a legitimate national aspiration and not simply a hobby.

The much-needed formal acknowledgment will pave the way for funding their training and participation at regional and international competitions, enabling them to hone their skills. The attractive prize rewards will make their pursuits a viable sporting career, like other more traditional sports.

Third, uplifting professionalism by making sport a viable career. One of the most important component of this Bill is to uplift the professionalism of sport and make it a viable, long-term career option for Singaporeans. Official recognition provides athletes with support and development pathways. For Singapore to build a vibrant sports ecosystem, we must signal clearly that sports, in all its forms, can be a credible, sustainable career.

Our talented athletes need more financial and institutional support to attain excellence in order to pursue sports professionally. I am heartened that this Bill aims to addresses that gap through three key mechanisms. However, I seek some clarifications, too.

First, the Bill empowers SportSG to establish and maintain quality standards and codes of practice for coaching, equipment and facilities, supported by accreditation systems. I would like to ask, what is the Ministry's strategy to attract talented coaches to Singapore?

Second, the consolidation of Singapore Sports School and the High Performance Sport Institute into a single entity enhances end-to-end service delivery across the youth and senior athlete spectrum. The new model signals holistic support through education, career transitions and life after sport. Would the Minister share in greater detail the measures to support athletes in their lives after their sports career end?

Third, recognition of e-sports and mind sports creates entirely new career paths. The e-sports sector generates jobs for software developers, graphic designers, event managers, marketing specialists, casters and production crews. Would the Government be able to consider introducing training schemes to develop talents in this sector?

Fourth, expanding flexible sports facilities while managing disamenities. Last, infrastructure. Under the Sports Facilities Master Plan, SportSG aims to provide most Singaporeans with affordable sport facilities within a 10-minute walk of their homes by around 2030. This is not merely about convenience, it is about removing barriers to participation and embedding sports into the daily community life.

However, expanding access must be balanced with residents' quality of life. For example, the rise of pickleball illustrates the tension vividly. There were many complaints about pickleball noise in Housing and Development Board (HDB) estates. Residents, especially night shift workers, have reported being disturbed by the distinctive sound of pickleball. There have also been complaints by residents living in the proximity of other sports facilities, such as basketball courts.

Our town councils have responded pragmatically. Besides closing the courts and switching lights off earlier, signs remind players to be considerate and keep noise down, and town councils encourage the use of quieter sports equipment.

While these ground-up responses are commendable, as we expand facilities under the Sports Facilities Master Plan, we must proactively design for noise mitigation and considerate use. This means incorporating acoustic buffers and scheduling guidelines into design and fostering a culture of mutual respect between players and residents. SportSG's new mandate to establish codes of practice for equipment and facilities must ensure that embedded noise management standards into facility design and operation are included from the outset.

I would also like to use this opportunity to call out the urgency for other important sports facilities, like an Olympic-sized ice rink, which Singapore has not had for a number of years. Our ice hockey and ice-skating athletes have had to go for their trainings in neighbouring countries. Not only that, such a facility will encourage more young people to explore their talents in ice sports and provide a fun place for families to enjoy and stay active. I would like to call upon our Government to prioritise the provision of such a facility.

In conclusion, this Bill embodies a balanced, inclusive vision for sport in Singapore. It recognises that sport serves multiple purposes: first, keeping seniors cognitively engaged; second, connecting with youth through formats they find meaningful; third, creating viable career pathways for athletes and coaches; and fourth, providing accessible, flexible facilities in every neighbourhood. This will encourage all residents, young and old, to participate meaningfully in our sporting culture. I support the Bill.

Mr Speaker, I thank the hon Members for their support of the Bill, as well as their comments and suggestions.

Several Members in the House spoke about how we can support our athletes better, during and after their careers. Mr Alex Yam, Ms Gho Sze Kee, Mr Yip Hon Weng and Ms Joan Pereira spoke about support for athletes' transition to life after sport.

Our athletes have similar aspirations to many Singaporeans – they want to pursue higher educational qualifications, start and grow their careers and work towards financial stability. And we agree with Members that we should support them to pursue these aspirations. Let me cite a few recent enhancements.

First, support for education. We launched the spexEducation Undergraduate Scholarships and we awarded them to our inaugural batch last year.

Ms Valerie Lee asked about the selection criteria. We focus our resources on supporting our full-time spexScholars who are best able to benefit from this scholarship, including the daily training environment that their Institute of Higher Learning provides if they are studying and competing at the same time. Or if they intend to study only after they retire from competitive sports, then we consider the course that they are pursuing and the potential future contributions to the sports sector.

One such example is Jessica Tan, our mixed doubles badminton Olympian and 2022 Commonwealth champion. After a very successful career, Jessica retired last year and she is now pursuing a degree in sport management and coaching. After her graduation, she will return back to contribute to our sports sector.

Second, support for career transitions. Through our spexBusiness initiative, we partner a network of supportive companies from diverse industries to provide athletes with career support, flexible workplace practices and development opportunities for their career after sport.

And third, support for finances. We regularly review and have recently increased our spexScholars' monthly stipends. On top of that, they now receive Central Provident Fund (CPF) top-ups, bolstering their finances to better meet their housing, medical and retirement needs.

Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked about support for former national athletes, including healthcare. We support our athletes' transition into retirement from their competitive sporting careers by helping them find good employment. Active and retired athletes can also tap on various programmes, including spexBusiness and spexEducation, which I mentioned, and we have recently enhanced.

In addition, there are national schemes to support healthcare and other needs of Singaporeans. For example, our public healthcare financing system, the S+3Ms – namely subsidies, MediShield Life, MediSave and MediFund – help keeps healthcare affordable for all Singaporeans.

Dr Charlene Chen spoke about supporting our athletes' mental well-being. The High Performance Sport Institute proactively monitors our athletes' mental health and provides them with support throughout their sporting career. With a dedicated Athlete Life Management team, the High Performance Sport Institute equips our athletes for life, helping them develop the skills and mental resilience needed to deal with life's challenges, including after retirement from sport.

And we will do more. We are deepening our capabilities in sports science and sports medicine as well as athlete life management, so that we support our athletes holistically, for both their sporting and non-sporting needs and across their life stages.

And that is also why we are also amending this Bill to allow us to organise ourselves better to serve our athletes, bringing together and streamlining expertise through consolidating the High Performance Sport Institute and Singapore Sports School into a single entity. Through this entity, we will strengthen our partnerships with key stakeholders in the High Performance Sport ecosystem, bringing together different specialists in their fields, for example, coaches, psychologists, athlete-life managers and sport administrators, in a clear, comprehensive way to provide wrap-around support for our athletes, helping them stay in competitive sports for as long as they can.

I agree with Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh and Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim on the benefits of integration, and their support for us to bring the Singapore Sports School to Kallang and integrate all elements of the High Performance Sport ecosystem under one roof in the new home of Team Singapore.

To Ms Elysa Chan's question on accountability, I would like to assure the Member that the entity will still be funded by the Government and be accountable to the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) and Parliament.

I thank Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik for his question.

With the consolidation, the Singapore Sports School remains a specialised independent school and will continue receiving support from both MOE and MCCY. The Singapore Sports School will continue to provide education to national and aspiring athletes. Besides serving the academic needs of student-athletes, the Singapore Sports School will expand its role to provide career guidance support to other national athletes.

The excellent track record of our Team Singapore athletes gives us confidence that our sporting ecosystem is developing in the right direction. Let me cite some examples.

At the recent SEA Games, our Singapore Sports School students and alumni accounted for almost half of our total Gold medal tally. Shuttler and Singapore Sports School alumnus, Loh Kean Yew, became Singapore's first-ever badminton world champion at the 2021 BWF World Championships. Our most decorated Paralympian, Yip Pin Xiu, is a seven-time Paralympic gold medallist and eight-time World Champion, with two world records to her name. Our kite foiling sensation, Max Maeder, is a double world champion, and won Bronze at his Olympic debut in Paris 2024. His other accolades include winning Gold thrice at the Trofeo Princesa Sofia Regatta, two Golds and a Silver at the Formula Kite World Championships, and an Asian Games Gold at Hangzhou 2022. Amanda Yap become Singapore's first-ever gymnast to reach a World Championships Final and placed sixth at the 2025 Artistic Gymnastics World Championship. In bowling, Singapore Sports School alumni, Darren Ong, made history as the first male Singaporean bowler to claim the Men's Singles title at the 2023 IBF World Championships since 2006. And at the same championships, sisters Cherie and Daphne Tan shared a special moment, winning the women's doubles gold medal. In silat, we have Sheik Farhan Sheik Alau'ddin, our five-time world champion who secured multiple world titles at events, such as the World Pencak Silat Championships. In wushu, Singapore Sports School student-athlete Zeanne Law was crowned World Champion twice in Women's Taijiquan in 2023 and 2024. And at the 2023 World Wushu Championships, Singapore Sports School alumnus Jowen Lim won his first world championship title in "gunshu".

I cite all these achievements because I do not want us to be mistaken that we think the system is working well just because we had a record medal haul in the SEA Games. The system is working well because our athletes have done us proud at all the different world level competitions.

We all have a part to play in growing sports excellence in Singapore. As a small nation with a small talent base, we are competing with nations who are multiple times larger than us, and with budgets that are significant and increasing. Our approach has always been one to partner with all stakeholders and complement each other's strengths, as Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh pointed out, so that we can maximise our investments. The amendment to section 8(d) of the Act reflects this, where we are shifting from consultation to working in partnership with stakeholders to bring about better outcomes.

The National Sport Associations (NSAs) play an important role in promoting and uplifting their respective sports, and many NSAs have done good work with their grassroots and through their developmental programmes. The consolidation of the High Performance Sport Institute and Singapore Sports School into a single entity will also deepen our partnerships with NSAs and provide synergistic and holistic support to our athletes.

Coaches play a pivotal role in shaping both athletic performance and the broader sporting environment. Ms Joan Pereira made several sound suggestions on recruiting and developing coaches.

MCCY and SportSG continually review our coach education and development programmes under CoachSG, with a view to building a deep and sustainable pipeline of coaching talents to support our athletes to achieve our High Performance Sport ambition, as well as to provide clear development and progression pathways, from grassroots to high performance coaches for elite athletes. This is in line with our tiered coaching pathways as guided by a competency framework. Through initiatives, such as the Coach Development Grant, our coaches also receive subsidies in course fees to pursue specialised training, including to develop suitable skills and expertise to help our ageing citizens stay physically active and healthy.

Various Members also spoke about the importance of having good access to sports facilities and the challenges that some residents face in booking public courts.

Today, through the Sport Facilities Master Plan, Singaporeans can access public sports facilities near to where they live. And we will continue to improve this. We provide a mix of larger sport centres in towns and smaller facilities in our neighbourhoods for easy access, particularly for seniors and young families.

The roughly 50% increase in the number of Singaporeans who participate in sport and fitness activities weekly, over the past decade, simply means it will be a little bit harder for our residents to book courts at the time and place that they want. We understand this and we plan to increase the provision of courts. We will share more details when ready.

Given the scarcity of land in Singapore, we have been innovative by activating underutilised spaces. For example, the CTE viaduct in Jalan Bukit Merah has been transformed into a touch tennis court, while the space under the Gali Batu Flyover will be used for futsal, pickleball courts and a fitness corner. Rooftops of multi storey carparks are also being repurposed as recreational spaces, such as the upcoming facility in Dover Crescent. We will also continue to explore and partner others to open up more spaces for play and tapping on existing collaborations, like the Dual-Use Scheme with schools.

I agree with Ms Valerie Lee that our sports facilities should serve the needs of a broad range of entities, in addition to our national sports associations. So, for example, our ActiveSG facilities and facilities at The Kallang are used by community sports groups, grassroots organisations, schools and corporates to host events and activities, such as the National School Games, Sport Days, community carnivals, festivals, sports competitions and charity events, like Football with a Heart.

Ms Joan Pereira and Mr Yip Hon Weng suggested having a code of practice for sports facilities in HDB estates.

Well, our approach is not to be overly prescriptive and allow flexibility to accommodate residents' preferences, given that each precinct in Singapore is a little bit different. At the same time, SportSG will work with all the relevant stakeholders, including the NSAs and, where possible, consider other solutions in terms of facility design or choice of equipment. We will work within our land constraints and we will continue to find innovative ways of providing public access to a diverse mix of sports.

Ms Joan Pereira asked whether there will be a new ice rink. SportSG and other agencies have been working closely with the ice sport NSAs on this matter. The Singapore Ice Skating Association has since launched a request for a proposal to develop and operate an ice rink and is reviewing the proposals received. In the same spirit, we will continue to partner with respective NSAs to support our athletes' short- and long-term training needs.

I am glad to hear Members’ support for recognising a more diverse group of sports. Recognition can help them increase membership, develop talent and secure funding or sponsorship. Some of these newer sports will also catalyse the supporting industries. For example, in the area of e-sports, create more demand for software developers and graphic designers.

I would like to assure Members that our intent is not to be overly prescriptive about what constitutes or not constitute a mind sport or e-sport. Instead, our focus is on supporting the diverse interests of Singaporeans, so that we can promote and develop sports in Singapore and as Ms Poh Li San said – to uplift and bond our nation through sports. We welcome suggestions to make this clearer to interested stakeholders and will continue to engage the sector closely.

And to Mr David Hoe, I have to say that for something to be considered a mind sport, it needs to be affiliated to an NSA, who is in turn affiliated to an International Federation. So, I do not think Toto will make the list anytime soon.

I would also like to assure Mr Fadli Fawzi that SportSG will continue to work with commercial entities to support a more vibrant and diverse sporting ecosystem. For example, SportSG partnered with close to 20 commercial partners for last year’s Singapore Urban Sports and Fitness Festival, and over 50 commercial partners for the inaugural Olympic Esports Week in 2023.

The recognition of more sports also offers an opportunity to engage various segments of population in different ways as Ms Joan Pereira has pointed out. Seniors can be engaged through mind sports to keep them mentally and socially active, which will complement today’s physical activity programmes offered by Government agencies and community partners. Indeed, as Mr Yip Hon Weng and Mr David Hoe pointed out too, there is also an opportunity to engage youths through e-sports, given its popularity.

I agree with Dr Charlene Chen, Mr Yip Hon Weng and Mr David Hoe that we should do so while addressing all the possible risks, such as potential issues with regard to gaming addiction. We will work with industry and community partners such as the Singapore Cybersports and Online Gaming Association and the Singapore Esports Association, as well as Government agencies like MOE and MOH to do so.

I thank Members for understanding that an expanded definition of sport does not mean that we will support all sports equally given the need for us to use public funds wisely. I agree with Ms Valerie Lee, Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim, Mr David Hoe and Dr Hamid Razak that the development of new sports, including e-sports should complement rather than crowd out existing sporting pathways, especially those that promote physical activity and broad-based participation.

As Dr Charlene Chen pointed out, one such pathway is the Direct School Admission (DSA). MOE schools have the autonomy to offer programmes that suit their students' needs and interests. MOE prioritises physical sports in the National School Games as movement and regular physical activity are fundamental to students' holistic development and health. For other types of sports, there are competition platforms organised by various organisations for students to represent their schools.

Members including Mr Alex Yam, Mr Lee Hong Chuang, Dr Kenneth Goh, Mr David Hoe, Ms Elysa Chan also talked about our funding principles. Broadly, we calibrate the amount of support for sports based on their specific needs, governance standards and contribution to our national sporting objectives, which includes the ability of the sport and its competition to inspire the Singapore spirit. We regularly review our support for sports and will continue to engage with the NSAs and other partners, like Singapore National Olympic Council and Singapore National Paralympic Council, so that we can collectively move in the same direction to uplift Singapore sports.

Mr Yip Hon Weng, Mr Lee Hong Chuang, Mr Fadli Fawzi asked how we would ensure fiscal sustainability. Within our land, manpower and funding constraints, we have found ways to support non-traditional sports, whether through support for athletes, such as the Athletes’ Inspire Fund, which defrays the costs for athletes in emerging sports participating in regional competitions, or working with NSAs to strengthen governance, obtain charity status and gain access to donations and matching grants to help grow their sports, such as the One Team Singapore Fund, or providing event and facility support, such as to host events like the 2023 World Youth Tchoukball Championship in Singapore.

To complement Government funding, we encourage corporates to come in to support our TeamSG athletes. We have seen some good examples, including Yeo Hiap Seng sponsorship to Max Maeder in 2022 to support his journey towards the 2024 Paris Olympics, and subsequent extension of their sponsorship deal by another four years from 2025 to 2028.

And we will make sport more accessible and inclusive for everyone. I would like to thank Mr Alex Yam, Dr Kenneth Goh, Ms Valerie Lee, Mr Yip Hon Weng and Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim who have spoken up on the importance of disability sport as a driver for inclusivity.

That is why we refreshed the Disability Sports Master Plan (DSMP) in 2024 to raise sport participation for persons with disabilities, focusing on three key strategic themes: First, to increase accessibility to disability sports programmes and activities; second, to enhance awareness of disability sports and inclusive sports activities, and; third, fulfil aspirations of persons with disabilities who desire and have the potential to do sports at the high performance level.

One of the strategic moves in the DSMP seeks to enhance the competencies of coaches in disability sports. We target to more than double the number of registered coaches under the National Registry of Coaches who can coach persons with disabilities, from 120 to 300 by 2030. This will complement other moves to increase the number of regular participants in disability sports programmes from 3,200 today to about 5,400 by 2030. We will work closely with various partners like schools, sports associations and community partners to implement the various strategic moves as laid out in the DSMP.

Ms Gho Sze Kee suggested the merging of the Singapore National Olympic Council and the Singapore National Paralympic Council. Both councils are independent and have their respective missions of developing and promoting the Olympic and Paralympic movements respectively, and amongst others, preparing our athletes for major games. I am sure they will take to heart the suggestion. There will be benefits with the current arrangement and there will be other possible benefits with a merger. And it comes down to which structure will allow them to meet their mandate and mission better and which structure serves Singapore and Team Singapore better. Both councils have done great work in uplifting sports and athletes in their sectors and MCCY and SportSG will continue working closely with them.

I would also like to thank Ms Poh Li San, Dr Hamid Razak and Dr Charlene Chen for their suggestions on ensuring a wider representation of professionals or experts in sports education, disability sports, sports psychology, sports tourism, community sports and senior sports on the Board of SportSG. This is in line with our plans to diversify SportSG Board’s expertise to enable it to lead the sport sector well.

The maximum of 25 members on the Board of SportSG provides us the scope to bring on board more diverse expertise and perspectives, and is in line with the size of other Statutory Boards. This is a maximum number, it is not a target, and we will continue to ensure that the Board runs effectively and efficiently.

Our society is aging rapidly. It is imperative that we work together to keep our seniors active and healthy through sports and physical fitness activities. Members Mr Alex Yam, Dr Charlene Chen and Mr David Hoe as well as Ms Joan Pereira have raised this. One key initiative is the Frailty Prevention Programme (FPP) that we have been progressively introducing to our Active Ageing Centres (AACs).

There are two key components to the FPP. First, the Combat Age-Related Loss of Muscle programme (CALM), which is an eight-week programme targeted at seniors to help them understand muscle health through assessment, guided strength training, and health coaching. Since September 2024, over 1,200 seniors from 54 AACs have completed the programme. After going through CALM, almost all seniors reported an improvement in at least one of five measurements, with at least 85% of them improving in at least three of these measurements. We will continue to run more runs of CALM and consider expanding them to the Residents Network as well should there be interest.

Second, introducing adaptive sports to seniors in AACs. This allows them to continue to reap the benefit of sport, while calibrating the level of physical exertion. This culminated in the inaugural Seniors National Games last year, where 4,500 seniors representing 110 AACs competed across five adaptive sports.

Some Members also asked about helping children and youth from disadvantaged backgrounds access sports. Sport can provide a safe and structured environment for them to build confidence, resilience and stronger connection to friends and society. SportSG provides a SportCares Bursary for children and youths from low-income families to participate in ActiveSG Academies and Clubs. We will continue to work closely with stakeholders and community partners to identify suitable children and youths for our initiatives and ensure that more can benefit.

SportSG will also continue to design and administer grants and programmes that can benefit different segments of the population, to strengthen our ecosystem or increase access to sport. For example, the Communities of Care Grant. This has played a vital role in supporting smaller organisations like Amplify, enabling them to create meaningful change in the lives of vulnerable communities. Through their functional fitness program, Amplify empowers youth at risk, seniors, and persons with disabilities by promoting holistic wellness and fostering a sense of community. Beneficiaries develop physical strength, resilience, and leadership skills, while gaining valuable industry knowledge for future employment opportunities.

We are also working to ensure that our people engage in physical fitness activities safely. I am encouraged by the Members’ support towards SportSG’s calibrated approach. As Mr Alex Yam, Dr Hamid Razak, Mr Yip Hon Weng, Mr Lee Hong Chuang and Dr Charlene Chen pointed out, over-regulation would deter smaller players or grassroots groups.

Our current focus is to ensure baseline standards and eventually uplift the sector. For example, Registered Exercise Professionals under the National Registry of Exercise Professionals hold relevant fitness or exercise certifications and are also certified in Standard First Aid. These are not intended to be onerous but are simple and essential requirements for a more developed industry for Singaporeans’ benefit. We will continue to review our approach and engage the sector.

Mr Fadli Fawzi asked about a potential conflict of interest SportSG’s expanded function to manufacture and supply sport and physical equipment, as well as to set standards for such equipment in clause 6(m) and 6(l) of the Bill. To clarify, SportSG typically does not manufacture sports or physical fitness equipment for sale. Items provided are usually meant to provide a service to Singaporeans, such as gym towels or water-bottles for children. SportSG also periodically provides sport-related items such as sport-resistance bands or TeamSG premiums, as part of its role to promote an active lifestyle or to strengthen public support for Team Singapore athletes.

Ms Elysa Chen asked about the accountability of standards set and approvals given. The criteria for being registered on the National Registry of Coaches and National Registry of Exercise Professionals and the names of coaches and exercise professionals is listed on the respective registries and publicly available. The requirements for accreditation are also objective, such as first aid certification. SportSG will continue to be objective and transparent as it seeks to uplift industry standards in partnership with our stakeholders.

Mr Speaker, Sir, we have achieved much progress in developing a vibrant sports culture in Singapore over the last five decades. We have significantly raised sports participation for Singaporeans from all walks of life – from one in two just a decade ago, to three in four today. We have made a significant leap in our regional performance, returning from the recent SEA Games in Bangkok with a record haul of medals.

We are on the right track to scale the next bound of sports in Singapore.

First, we are making “hardware” investments in Kallang to integrate the Singapore Sports School with our High Performance Sport Institute and build a new home for Team Singapore.

Second, we are transforming our “software” to support our youth and senior athletes holistically with deeper investments in sports science and sports medicine and stronger partnerships with our NSAs.

Third, we have set out a masterplan and we are running programmes and initiatives to be more inclusive through sport by empowering persons with disabilities, outreaching to vulnerable youths and supporting students of all abilities to provide good access sports in schools and to nurture a love for sport from young.

Last but not least, we are setting standards to ensure our people engage in physical activities safely, so that Singaporeans can lead active and healthy lifestyles.

I thank all Members for supporting this Bill. At this juncture, I also want to thank Mr Yip Hon Weng, Mr Lee Hong Chuang, Ms Poh Li San and Dr Kenneth Goh for reminding us that sport at any level is not just about winning and doing well. It is also about inculcating values, building character and giving ourselves a sense of who we are as a nation. It is about how we respond when our team needs us.

Dr Kenneth Goh gave us the examples of Josh Chua, Koen Pang, Izaac Quek and Victoria Lim putting team before self and nation before self. And there were many more examples that we witnessed at the many sporting events, in our schools and communities as well.

It is about how we respond in defeat.

While we had a record medal haul at the SEA Games, we had our share of disappointments as well. Our netball team, who are Asian youth champions, suffered an agonising three-point loss in the finals. But that is sport. There will be good days and there will be bad days. What matters is we always come back, stronger.

That is how our support for our athletes should be. We support them when they are doing well and we support them even more if they are not doing well. That is how sport bonds and uplifts us as a nation – not because we win all the time, but because we know how difficult it is to win and we always come back, stronger.

Sir, the impact of this Bill will depend on what we do from here. From providing more support for our athletes beyond sports, participating actively in our lineup of programmes, stepping forward to contribute to a vibrant and inclusive sporting ecosystem, there is a role for everyone.

There is much to look forward to for Singapore's sports. We will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to implement this Bill effectively and ensure that our national sport ecosystem remains inclusive, dynamic and future-ready. Mr Speaker, Sir, I seek to move. [Applause.]