Debated in Parliament on 15 Oct 2025.
Miss Rachel Ong asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information (a) whether the Ministry has assessed the risks posed by generative AI models to mental health and safety of children and youths in Singapore; and (b) what safeguarding measures, for example, mandatory crisis-intervention protocols, age verification, parental controls, are being considered or implemented to protect youths from harmful AI interactions.
Agencies across Government are assessing the prevalence and impact of generative artificial intelligence (gen AI) on our children and youths. Meanwhile, there are already some measures in place to protect younger users online. Under our Codes of Practice for Online Safety, designated app stores must implement age assurance measures by 31 March 2026 to reduce the risk of under-18 users being able to access and download age-inappropriate apps. Existing frameworks, such as the Model AI Governance Framework for Generative AI, which fosters responsible development and use of AI, apply to online safety for youths and children.
The Government complements regulations with education and resources to equip young users and parents to use technology, including gen AI, safely and responsibly. In schools, Cyber Wellness and Mental Health Education lessons are taught as part of the Ministry of Education's (MOE's) Character and Citizenship Education (CCE) curriculum. Through the lessons, students learn to be safe, respectful and responsible online users, and to take care of their mental well-being. In addition, parents, children and youths may refer to the recently released Positive Use Guide on Technology and Social Media for practical tips on building healthy and balanced relationships with technology.
We will continue to work with stakeholders to create safer online spaces, so that every Singaporean is empowered to thrive safely in the digital age.
PAPERCUTS