Debated in Parliament on 21 Oct 2013.
Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister for Social and Family Development in view of the large number of divorces in the last few years (a) what are the plans by the Ministry to promote marriage and family life; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider promoting programmes to strengthen marriages.
MSF continues to have efforts to promote marriages and to strengthen families. It also works with accredited dating agencies and community organisations to nurture a vibrant dating scene for singles.
To strengthen marriages, MSF funds marriage preparation programmes conducted by trained counsellors. Each year, more than 500 couples would benefit from these programmes, which cover topics such as communication skills, conflict resolution and planning for a family. MSF also works with community partners such as the National Family Council, family service providers, educators and religious groups, to support couples at different stages of their marriage. For example, couples facing marital difficulties can approach Family Service Centres or relevant Voluntary Welfare Organisations for counselling and other support.
We also work with businesses to create a family friendly environment. To date, more than 5,800 businesses have pledged to be family friendly, with more than 450 attaining the accredited Businesses for Families mark for attaining specific standards.
Going forward, we will do even more to promote and strengthen families. In April this year, we launched the FamilyMatters! Initiative to give a greater push to family education and promotion efforts. We will tap on everyday touch points such as workplaces, schools and convenient locations within the community to heighten awareness and knowledge on topics such as marriage, work-life harmony and parenting.
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