Licences for Commercial Rock Concerts in Residential Areas

Mr Ang Hin Kee asked the Minister for Communications and Information (a) why are arts entertainment licences approved for commercial rock concerts to be held at open fields in the night next to residential areas; and (b) what steps are taken to address the intense noise pollution affecting the immediate residential neighbourhood.

In approving arts entertainment licences for concerts, the Media Development Authority (MDA) works with the Police to impose licensing conditions on event organisers. Such conditions may include restrictions in the level of sound amplification, the number of loudspeakers or the event hours, to minimise noise disamenities. The MDA and the Police would also consider past feedback from the community in the vicinity.

Most commercial rock concerts licensed by the MDA are held at commercial venues which are situated away from residential areas. For concerts licensed by the MDA which are held near residential areas, the MDA will consult the Police on the necessary law and order and traffic measures that need to be put in place. The MDA may additionally require organisers to obtain approval from the relevant authorities, including the Town Councils and the Singapore Land Authority, for the use of the premise and to address potential concerns. Licensees who fail to comply with the licensing conditions will be taken to task. If convicted, the licensee may be liable for a fine of up to $10,000. Such a track record will be closely monitored by the MDA and the Police when assessing future events held in the particular area and by the organiser in question.