Debated in Parliament on 13 Jan 2026.
Mr Lee Hong Chuang asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether the Ministry can provide an update on (i) how MFA is strengthening its consular assistance and crisis response capabilities for Singaporeans overseas, particularly in light of increasing geopolitical instability and (ii) what measures are being taken to ensure timely communication with and support for Singaporeans during emergencies abroad.
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) what are the Ministry's standard operating procedures, if any, for providing emergency consular aid and ensuring the safety of Singaporeans during overseas crises such as the (i) Brown University shooting on 13 December 2025, (ii) Bondi Beach shooting on 14 December 2025 and (iii) Taipei knife attack on 19 December 2025; and (b) what assistance, if any, was rendered by our overseas missions following the Brown University shooting.
This response will address Parliamentary Question No 992 raised by Member Lee Hong Chuang and Parliamentary Question No 1002 raised by Member Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat in today's Order Paper.
When a crisis or major incident occurs overseas, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) mounts an appropriate consular response. First, we determine the nature and severity of the incident. Second, we disseminate relevant information and updates to Singaporeans who may potentially be involved. Third, we provide consular assistance to Singaporeans in distress. This includes contacting eRegistered Singaporeans to check on their well-being, liaising with local authorities, issuing Document of Identity for lost passports and facilitating the return of Singaporeans back home, if necessary. We may also issue Travel Notices and Advisories for Singaporeans to avoid travel to that region. That said, every incident is unique and circumstances in the foreign country vary widely, so our responses must be customised accordingly.
Let me cite some examples from recent incidents. During the floods in Hat Yai, our Crisis Response Team was deployed overseas to reach Singaporeans and help bring them home. MFA also helped facilitate the departure of 11 Singaporeans from Iran during the Israel-Iran conflict in June 2025.
When the attacks at Brown University, Bondi Beach and Taipei occurred, our Missions took immediate action, including contacting Singaporeans that eRegistered, posting updates and advice and liaising with local authorities to ensure the well-being of our citizens.
We encourage Singaporeans to eRegister when they travel as this allows MFA to reach out and render prompt consular assistance where needed. We also urge Singaporeans to stay vigilant and take precautions for their personal safety while abroad, purchase comprehensive travel insurance and refer to MFA's Travel Advisories and Notices.
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