Debated in Parliament on 8 May 2023.
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Ministry has considered (i) implementing a fixed timeframe within which coffee shop operators are required to replace their sole halal food stall with another halal vendor once the original vendor ceases to operate and (ii) imposing stricter penalties against coffee shop operators who fail to do so, beyond not renewing their leases in the future; and (b) if not, why not.
Since 2005, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) coffee shop operators are required under their tenancy agreements to have at least one halal stall. Should the halal stall operator cease operations, the coffee shop operator is required to find a replacement within the current tenancy period. It is in the interest of the operator to find a replacement as soon as possible, to minimise loss of revenue arising from the vacant stall.
If the operator fails to find a replacement, HDB may decide not to renew the tenancy or, as a last resort, terminate the tenancy. However, before taking such action, HDB will discuss and work with existing operators to resolve the issue or to allow operators more time to adjust or find a replacement.
Stricter penalties, as suggested by the Member’s question, might not be the best strategy for bringing about the desired outcome of halal food availability. The Ministry of National Development and HDB are concerned about residents’ needs and have also been listening to the feedback of coffee shop operators. Some have found it difficult to secure replacement stalls due to lower demand in certain areas or strong competition from other options nearby.
Hence, we are prepared to consider alternative approaches. We will engage the industry for feedback and work with them to co-create solutions for maintaining good availability of halal cooked food in HDB coffee shops.
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