Arts, culture & sports — Topics

7 Nov 2023

Proposal to Review and Revitalise ActiveSG Jurong West Sports Stadium

Patrick Tay Teck Guan asked if there are plans to review and revitalise ActiveSG Jurong West Sports Stadium with more F&B and retail options to boost vibrancy and visitorship.
Edwin Tong Chun Fai stated that SportSG plans rejuvenation based on factors like age and town development, and Jurong West Sport Centre is not yet due for rejuvenation.
The centre's spaces are mostly leased to childcare and enrichment centres, with remaining spaces lacking provisions for F&B operations, though vending machines and nearby F&B options are available.
When rejuvenation is due, SportSG will explore enhancing infrastructure to support more F&B options and continue working with partners to boost vibrancy and visitorship.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

7 Nov 2023

Expanding Range of Institutions and Organisations that Advise New Family Offices on Philanthropic Endeavours

The government has identified multiple existing platforms, such as the Community Foundation of Singapore and the Impact Philanthropy Partnership, to advise new family offices on philanthropic activities.
Government agencies and financial intermediaries connect family offices with local philanthropic causes across sectors like social services, education, healthcare, arts, heritage, and sports.
The government will continue to monitor and review philanthropic advisory support to ensure family offices can contribute meaningfully to society.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

National Athletes Seeking Psychological Support

National carded athletes under the Sport Excellence (spex) programme receive support for psychological and mental well-being, including regular well-being surveys during medical check-ups to screen for distress and disorders.
Cases flagged as needing attention are assessed by the Singapore Sport Institute’s sport science team, with referrals to the Singapore Sport and Exercise Medicine Centre for clinical expertise if required.
The Minister referred to previous parliamentary responses on mental health support for athletes for comprehensive details, but did not provide specific annual figures on the number of athletes seeking psychological support over the past five years.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Update on Take-up Rate for Strategic Partnership Co-Curricular Activity (SP-CCA) Programmes for Secondary Schools

Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked for an update on the take-up rate for the Strategic Partnership Co-Curricular Activity (SP-CCA) programmes for secondary schools and whether there are plans to expand the programme to benefit more students.
The Ministry of Education, together with the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, jointly offers SP-CCA, which enables secondary students from different schools to pursue interests in sports and arts beyond their schools' offerings.
Over 150 students from 68 schools currently participate in three SP-CCAs: Athletics, Water Polo, and Ethnic Dance.
This year, students in Athletics and Water Polo took part in events like the National School Games, while Ethnic Dance performers showcased at the Singapore Youth Festival.
MOE will continue to monitor student interest and consider expanding SP-CCA to more areas in the coming years.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Government Support for Ground-up Community Libraries

Ms Usha Chandradas asked about government support for ground-up community libraries, with Mrs Josephine Teo outlining initiatives by the National Library Board (NLB) and People’s Association (PA).
NLB has donated over 48,000 older books to 102 community organisations since April 2020, supporting sustainability and seeding community libraries.
NLB provides advice to communities on setting up reading corners and promotes responsible use of shared library spaces.
PA supports reading programmes through premises, publicity, donation drives, and funding via the Community Volunteer Enabling Grant.
NLB and PA will continue collaborating with communities to promote reading, lifelong learning, and discovery.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Review Procedures at Singapore Sports School to Protect Safety and Well-being of Students

Assoc Prof Razwana Begum asked the Minister to confirm if the Ministry is reviewing Singapore Sports School (SSP) policies to ensure student safety, staff training, and breach detection mechanisms.
Edwin Tong recounted the tragic death of student-athlete Pranav Madhaik, who suffered a cardiac arrest after a training session, and stated the coach was dismissed for failing to follow safety protocols.
MCCY and SSP affirmed their commitment to student-athlete safety, detailing existing policies, staff certifications, and safety validations, but acknowledged a need for further review following the incident.
An expert panel is being formed to conduct a thorough review of SSP's safety policies and protocols, with aims to strengthen areas like pre-admission screening and implementation, to be completed by year-end.
The Minister expressed condolences to Pranav's family and emphasized ongoing support for the student-athletes and staff, with progressive implementation of any improvements identified.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

4 Oct 2023

Allowing Cancellation of Bookings for Facilities in ActiveSG App

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim questioned whether the ActiveSG app could be modified to allow users to cancel confirmed bookings for facilities.
Minister Edwin Tong Chun Fai explained that the app currently does not allow cancellations to prevent hoarding and last-minute cancellations, ensuring broader access to public sports facilities.
Users unable to use booked facilities due to unforeseen circumstances can write to ActiveSG for a replacement booking or refund, after which the slot is released for others.
The government continues to monitor user experiences to improve service while noting high utilization of public sports facilities.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Oct 2023

Mental Health Support Provided to Retired Team Singapore and eSports Athletes

Melvin Yong asked what mental health support is provided to retired Team Singapore athletes and whether this support extends to retired esports athletes.
Edwin Tong referred to previous parliamentary responses on mental health support for national athletes, including esports athletes, during their active careers.
The minister highlighted that athletes develop life skills and mental resilience through support during their careers, which can help them after retirement.
He directed the member to specific official reports for more details and suggested filing a separate question for further queries.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Oct 2023

Wood Morning Singapore Exhibition Depicting Children's Cartoon Characters and Toys

Christopher de Souza asked whether a licence is required for the Wood Morning Singapore exhibition depicting cartoon characters in an inappropriate manner, if a licence was issued, and why.
Josephine Teo stated that an Arts Entertainment Licence is not needed for displays in commercial venues primarily for selling items, and the exhibition is held at a store in Funan shopping mall.
MCI received public concerns about the display and has conveyed feedback to ActionCity and Funan mall management, while Police reports have been lodged and are being investigated.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Oct 2023

Use of Mr Lee Kuan Yew's Image on Local Company's Commemorative Packet Drinks

Ms Poh Li San questioned whether Yeo's use of Mr Lee Kuan Yew's image on commemorative packet drinks violated official guidelines and if the Ministry could withdraw such products.
The Minister of State confirmed MCCY had consulted with Yeo's, deemed the respectful intent of honoring Mr Lee's legacy, and noted the drinks were distributed free, not sold.
Ms Poh raised concerns about potential disrespect if discarded packets become litter, and MCCY responded by advising responsible disposal and considering public feedback.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

19 Sep 2023

Veterinary Expert Inputs for Use of Live Chickens and Chicks in Art Installation at National Gallery Singapore

Dr Tan Wu Meng raised concerns from young constituents about the use of live chickens and chicks in a National Gallery Singapore art installation, questioning whether veterinary input was sought and what impact the exhibition had on the animals' welfare.
The Senior Minister of State for National Development confirmed that NParks conducted a site inspection, consulted a veterinarian, and issued a licence, ensuring the poultry had adequate care, with safeguards like distance rules and regular checks during the five-day exhibition.
After the exhibition, the poultry were returned to their original caretaker and confirmed to be in good health, with the last check conducted upon their return.
Dr Tan Wu Meng sought assurance on the animals' long-term well-being and expressed concern about the message such installations send, while the Ministry of National Development emphasized that each application is assessed individually to protect animal welfare.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

19 Sep 2023

Sustainability Audit for Singapore's F1 Grand Prix and Other Events

The Government reported that the 2022 Singapore Grand Prix sustainability audit found 96.1% of emissions from energy use and 3.9% from Scope 3 sources like transport, waste, and water, with similar audits planned for this year’s race.
The race promoter aims to halve energy emissions by 2028 through reducing consumption, using more renewable energy, and switching to lower-carbon fuels, supported by energy-efficient lighting and Renewable Energy Certificates for grid electricity.
For the MICE industry, tracking of waste and carbon emissions began this year under the MICE Sustainability Roadmap, focusing on capability building and emissions reduction strategies.
The government will continue refining plans for both the Grand Prix and MICE sector to manage carbon emissions, with consideration given to including timelines for Scope 3 measurement and interim 2030 targets in future audits.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

18 Sep 2023

Use of Art Therapy in Health Promotion Board's Initiative to Help Communities Achieve Better Mental Health

Usha Chandradas raised questions about the extent and scope of art therapy in the Health Promotion Board’s mental health initiatives and plans to raise awareness about it.
Ong Ye Kung stated that HPB includes art-related activities like mindful colouring in workshops, with research showing benefits such as stress reduction, and encouraged incorporating art into daily routines.
He noted that evidence on the effectiveness of formal art therapy is still evolving and emphasized that such techniques should be guided by professional recommendations and family doctors.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

18 Sep 2023

Extent of Incorporation of Overseas Art-related Study Trips into School Curriculums

The Ministry of Education stated that schools are not required to incorporate overseas art-related study trips into curriculums, though some institutions offer them as part of broader learning opportunities, with local art museums and organizations used to deepen cultural appreciation.
Over the past decade (2013–2022), approximately 50 overseas art-related study trips have been organized by schools, while art colleges and universities provide additional overseas programmes and exchanges.
Funding for such trips comes from various sources, including support for needy Singaporean students, but the Ministry did not specify metrics for measuring their effectiveness or plans to increase their frequency.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

18 Sep 2023

Allowing Standard First Aid Recertification for Sports Instructors to Commence Upon Expiry of Existing Certificate Instead of Upon Renewal

Ms See Jinli Jean proposed that first aid recertification validity should begin upon expiry of the existing certificate rather than renewal, and suggested extending certification validity from two to three years for sports instructors.
Ong Ye Kung responded that renewal start dates depend on training providers' administrative systems, and the Singapore Resuscitation and First Aid Council (SRFAC) will work to standardize practices.
SRFAC maintains a two-year validity for Standard First Aid courses to ensure skills currency and address practical challenges of more frequent retraining.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

18 Sep 2023

Incentives for Local Publishers to Assist Singapore Authors with Obtaining Representation by International Publishers

Usha Chandradas asked about incentives for local publishers to help Singapore authors get international representation and publishing deals.
Edwin Tong stated that the National Arts Council (NAC) provides grants like the Presentation and Participation (Publishing) grant and Market and Audience Development grant to support local and international publishing of Singaporean literature.
Between 2020 and 2022, NAC supported over 140 publishing grants, with about 3% for international publications of Singaporean works, and five grants for marketing Singapore literature abroad.
NAC’s Our SG Arts Plan emphasizes internationalisation, including featuring Singapore writers at the 2023 Frankfurt Book Fair through the Singapore Book Publishers Association.
Details on NAC’s grants are available on its website, supporting the visibility of Singapore literature and authors internationally.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Aug 2023

Impact of Arrest of Managing Director of Hotel Properties Ltd on Running of F1 Singapore Grand Prix 2023

Edward Chia asked whether the arrest of the managing director of Hotel Properties Limited would impact the 2023 F1 Singapore Grand Prix and if an independent review of past races would be conducted.
Sharael Taha inquired whether the CPIB investigation into the owner of the rights to the Singapore Grand Prix would affect the renewed seven-year contract extension for hosting the event until 2028.
Gan Kim Yong stated that preparations for the 2023 race are advanced and the event will proceed as planned, with the government ensuring success through partners.
He noted that the Singapore Tourism Board has conducted audits since the race's inception but cannot comment on ongoing CPIB investigations.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Aug 2023

Cost of Restoration and Additional Works Done on Black and White Bungalows since 2018

The Minister confirmed that SLA rents out residential heritage bungalows at or above the guide rent, meaning there have been cases rented exactly at the guide rent.
SLA does not specifically track the number of cases where over $500,000 was spent on essential repairs or restoration for these bungalows since 2018.
The Minister stated that SLA’s practice is to assess each case on its merits regarding site clearance requests, considering factors like public health, safety, and SLA’s interests as the landlord.
The Minister referenced prior parliamentary statements from July 2023 for detailed information on SLA’s management of state properties and rentals.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Aug 2023

Total Rent Received and Expenses Incurred on Black and White Bungalows in 2022

Hazel Poa asked the Minister for Law for the total rent received and expenses incurred on black and white bungalows in 2022.
The Second Minister for Law directed her to earlier parliamentary statements on 3 July 2023 that detailed the management of these heritage properties.
The minister confirmed that in FY2022, the total rent collected from these bungalows exceeded the total expenses, including maintenance and marketing costs.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Aug 2023

Conservation of People's Park Complex for Its Strong Community Significance and Design Merits

He Ting Ru inquired about plans to conserve People's Park Complex due to its community significance and design merits amid its collective sale process.
Desmond Lee emphasized that conserving built heritage is important in Singapore's planning, with the URA regularly reviewing and assessing buildings for heritage value.
The URA engages building owners to discuss development and conservation plans and will share these plans when they are ready.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source