Debated in Parliament on 7 Jul 2014.
Ms Foo Mee Har asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether HDB can take disciplinary action against flat owners or tenants who cause inconvenience to other HDB dwellers by engaging in anti-social behaviour, such as hanging out wet laundry, making loud noises at unacceptable hours or dressing inappropriately in common areas; and (b) what role can HDB play in setting rules/guidelines for all HDB residents so as to encourage a level of etiquette that is commonly acceptable to most Singaporeans.
Disagreements between HDB residents arising from anti-social behaviour are generally private disputes. Our approach has been to encourage them to resolve the disputes amicably amongst themselves. Where residents surface their case to HDB for assistance, HDB will work with the grassroots leaders and community partners to advise the neighbours to be considerate and to cease the anti-social behaviour. For disputes that remain unresolved, the neighbours can seek mediation from the Community Mediation Centre.
HDB can take action against residents only if they have caused a public nuisance to other residents. In extremis, HDB may consider compulsory acquisition of the flat or imposing a penalty in lieu of compulsory acquisition. However, this is drastic and should only be used as a last resort.
HDB will continue to promote gracious and harmonious living through community bonding programmes like the Good Neighbours Movement and the Heartland Ambassador Programme. It also organises regular exhibitions and roadshows to educate residents on good neighbourliness.
In addition, HDB is assisting an inter-agency committee led by MCCY which has been looking into strengthening the mechanisms across Government agencies to address such disputes arising from anti-social behaviour.
PAPERCUTS