Transparency of Racial Quota under Ethnic Integration Policy during Selling and Buying of HDB Flats

Mr Zainal Sapari asked the Minister for National Development (a) how does HDB ensure the racial quota under the Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP) during the selling and buying process to ensure fairness and transparency to all parties; (b) what assistance is provided to sellers who are unable to sell their flat due to the EIP despite the many extensions given for them to sell their flat; and (c) whether HDB can exercise flexibility to allow a sale transaction to go through especially in circumstances where the seller cannot find a suitable buyer for a particular ethnic group.

Mr Deputy Speaker, the Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP) was introduced in 1989 to ensure a balanced mix of ethnic groups living in our Housing and Development Board (HDB) estates, to promote racial harmony and strengthen social cohesion. It applies to the sale and purchase of all HDB flats and is implemented in a fair and transparent manner.

Prospective buyers and sellers of resale flats can check their ethnic eligibility to buy or sell a flat through the HDB InfoWEB. The ethnic proportions are updated on the first day of every month and they apply to all completed resale applications received during that month.

Based on our experience, most flat sellers are able to secure buyers from eligible ethnic groups, given the large number of buyers on the market every year. For those who are unable to sell their flats, HDB may grant them an extension of time and advise them to be realistic with their asking prices. Additionally, HDB has and will continue to exercise flexibility for households of mixed parentage or marriages, or where there are exceptional circumstances.