Nominated Members of Parliament

Mr Deputy Speaker: Leader of the House.

May I make a short speech before I move the Motion of Adjournment of Parliament today.

Mr Deputy Speaker: Please proceed.

Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien: Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, the term of office of the Nominated Members of Parliament (NMPs) is coming to an end. On behalf of the House, I would like to thank the nine NMPs for their contributions. They are: Mr Azmoon Bin Ahmad, Mr Ganesh Rajaram, Mr Kok Heng Leun, Asst Prof Mahdev Mohan and Ms K Thanaletchimi for serving one term; and Ms Chia Yong Yong, Mr Thomas Chua, Ms Kuik Shiao-Yin and Assoc Prof Randolph Tan for serving two terms.

The NMP scheme was introduced in 1990 to provide a wider range of views and perspectives in Parliament. The NMPs represent diverse groups of Singaporeans and, with their views presented in Parliament, they have added to the robustness of the debates and contributed towards better decision-making in this House. In recent years, our electorate has taken an interest in a broader range of concerns and there have been new viewpoints and alternative approaches on the issues debated. Our NMPs have done well in articulating these perspectives and representing different citizen segments.

The NMPs have brought attention to a wide range of issues, including workplace harassment, criminal justice and Muslim inheritance laws. They have also raised thoughtful suggestions on how we can adapt to the demands of a global economy and ensure that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can thrive amidst economic restructuring. Other social issues have also been discussed, including income inequality and freedom for artistic expression in public spaces.

While each NMP has specific concerns and areas of expertise, they have also collaborated on issues of common concern. In July 2018, five NMPs proposed the Motion "Education for our Future". Together, they called for the Government to ensure that the education system was accessible and inclusive for all learners. They made passionate and heartfelt speeches on important topics, such as social mobility within the education system, sports education and national examinations.

While the NMPs have presented their views respectfully, they have not shirked from challenging the status quo. They have contributed to healthy debates in our Parliament, which are necessary when setting the direction for Singapore in our complex and challenging environment.

Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, the NMPs have embodied the spirit of Parliament, putting Singapore and Singaporeans first. On behalf of the House, I would like to thank them for their valuable contributions to Parliament. [Applause.]

Mr Deputy Speaker: Indeed, I believe all Members of the House will join the Leader in thanking all the nine NMPs for their participation and contributions to the robust debate in Parliament. Thank you very much.