Arts, culture & sports — Topics

13 Apr 2015

Efforts to Reverse Drop in Sports Participation Rates among Students in Tertiary Institutions

The Ministry of Education has implemented a holistic approach to sports education, including compulsory sports modules at polytechnics and ITE, and credit-bearing sports modules at universities like NUS and NTU, to foster lifelong healthy habits.
Tertiary institutions support sports participation through mass events, inter-institution games, and subsidized programs to keep costs low, alongside access to facilities for students to engage in recreational or competitive sports.
Dipstick figures from 2012 to 2014 indicate a rebound in sports participation rates for the 20–24 age group to about 70%, reflecting the effectiveness of these efforts.
Beyond formal education, initiatives by institutions and government agencies aim to encourage continued sports engagement in adulthood, ensuring sports participation remains a lifelong activity.

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12 Mar 2015

Committee of Supply – Head X (Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth)

The debate centered on MCCY's budget and plans for SG50, with members highlighting the need to preserve heritage, promote sports, and support the Malay/Muslim community, including zakat management, mosque development, and madrasah education.
Minister Yaacob Ibrahim outlined initiatives for the Malay/Muslim community, such as expanding mosque infrastructure, enhancing educational support through MENDAKI, strengthening family programs, and ensuring madrasah students receive examination fee waivers.
Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized SG50 celebrations focusing on heritage, culture, and the future, detailing investments in cultural institutions like the National Gallery, support for traditional arts, and efforts to make Singapore a "Giving Nation" through volunteerism and corporate philanthropy.
Discussions included proposals for heritage impact assessments, preserving sites like Haw Par Villa, expanding sports facilities under the Sports Facilities Master Plan, and supporting athletes ahead of the SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games.
Members raised concerns about racial and religious harmony, youth engagement, and inclusivity, with the government committing to initiatives like the Harmony Fund, Youth Corps Singapore, and enhancing disability sports participation.

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11 Mar 2015

Committee of Supply – Head X (Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth)

Baey Yam Keng urged the government to leverage SG50 and the 2015 SEA Games to sustain patriotism and strengthen Singaporean identity, calling for policies to nurture uniquely Singaporean cultural icons like hawker food, xinyao, and getais.
Several MPs asked about the expansion and monitoring of MENDAKI's education programs, including its tuition scheme and potential involvement in early childhood education, to better serve the Malay/Muslim community.
Questions were raised on financial and policy support for Madrasah kindergartens, the use of funds like Zakat and the Malay/Muslim Community Development Fund, and initiatives to address high consumer debt and divorce rates in the Malay/Muslim community.

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10 Mar 2015

Committee of Supply – Head Q (Ministry of Communications and Information)

The Personal Data Protection Act and the Do Not Call Registry have reduced nuisance calls, but businesses face compliance costs and some workarounds, while unions seek exemptions for industrial relations purposes.
The government is advancing the Smart Nation vision through infrastructure projects like the Smart Nation Platform, while investing in start-ups, talent development, and digital inclusion for vulnerable groups.
Public Service Broadcasting will receive increased funding to enhance local content, expand digital platforms like Toggle, and improve outreach, especially to younger audiences.
The National Translation Committee is raising translation standards through a procurement framework, scholarships, and an expanded online glossary to improve communication across languages.

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5 Mar 2015

Immersion Programmes to Encourage Cultural Exchanges in ASEAN

Christopher de Souza asked about plans to increase immersion programmes between Singapore and ASEAN neighbours to boost cultural exchanges.
The Ministry of Education highlighted the value of overseas experiences for developing cultural sensitivity and broadening worldviews.
About 60% of students' overseas learning journeys in 2014 were to ASEAN countries, often involving student interactions.
MOE coordinates immersion and school twinning programmes with ASEAN nations, including 65 twinned schools and an annual ASEAN Student Exchange Programme.
The exchange programme brings together about 40 students from ASEAN countries for a one-week residential cultural sharing and learning experience.

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23 Feb 2015

Opening Swimming Pools and Gyms in Military Camps on Weekends and After Work Hours for Operationally Ready NSMen to Do Reservist Training Preparations

Mrs Lina Chiam asked if military camp swimming pools and gyms could be opened to reservists on weekends or after work hours for training preparation.
The Minister explained that camps are restricted areas for security reasons, and facilities are only available to authorized personnel during weekdays for In-Camp Training.
The Ministry supports reservists through SAFRA memberships, clubs with pools and gyms, and IPPT preparatory training on weekends and evenings.
Additional initiatives like "IPT in the Park" are offered to provide more convenient fitness preparation options for NSmen.
The approach focuses on motivating NSmen to take personal ownership of their fitness while ensuring camp security is maintained.

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12 Feb 2015

Requirement for Schools' CCA Teachers in Charge to be Present at Training Venues

Benedict Tan suggested removing the requirement for teachers to be physically present at CCA training venues and leaving duty of care to external providers, citing heavy teacher workloads and resource constraints.
The Senior Parliamentary Secretary emphasized that teacher presence is essential for student safety and holistic education, especially in overnight or competitive activities, and that schools match teachers to CCAs based on interests when possible.
In response, the official reiterated that while tasks can be outsourced, teachers must retain responsibility to model values, build team spirit, and handle stakeholder interactions during CCA.

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12 Feb 2015

Opening All School Facilities for Community Use

Lim Biow Chuan asked if all schools can open their sports facilities to residents for community use.
The Ministry of Education currently partners with Sports Singapore and the People’s Association to share school sports facilities outside of school hours based on demand.
Over half of schools are involved, providing access to about 150 school fields and 75 indoor sports halls.
MOE plans to continue working with partners to expand community access to additional school sports facilities where there is demand.

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12 Feb 2015

Free Parking at Sports Facilities to Encourage Usage

Lim Biow Chuan proposed allowing free parking for the first two hours at sports stadiums to encourage usage.
Benedict Tan suggested offering free parking during non-peak hours at selected sports facilities to promote physical activity.
Minister Lawrence Wong declined the proposals, citing risks of non-sport users occupying parking spaces and a preference to support all users through initiatives like ActiveSG credits and better facility access.

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29 Jan 2015

Cost of New "Lay-and-Play" Natural Grass Turf for National Stadium

The National Stadium will adopt a "lay-and-play" natural grass turf solution, with SHPL bearing all implementation and maintenance costs rather than the government, and SHPL has committed not to pass these costs to tenants or customers.
The decision for natural turf was made because top international sports teams prefer natural grass, even though artificial turf was considered and may be reassessed in the future if technology and acceptance improve.
The new turf solution will be implemented by an international turf company with expertise in "lay-and-play" methods, and Sport Singapore will supervise to ensure standards are met and SHPL fulfills its commitments.

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20 Jan 2015

Restoration of Former Surrender Chamber in Old City Hall Building

Christopher de Souza inquired whether the former Surrender Chamber in the old City Hall will be restored to its original state upon the opening of the National Gallery Singapore.
Lawrence Wong confirmed that the chamber will retain its original features, with well-preserved elements like timber flooring, chandeliers, and wooden wall panelling, and only subtle spot-lighting added.
The chamber, noted for the Japanese surrender in 1945 and the swearing-in of Singapore's first Prime Minister, will feature historical information panels, guided tours, and multimedia guides at the National Gallery.

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20 Jan 2015

Medical Support for National Athletes

Benedict Tan questioned the lack of a full-time Sports Physician at the Singapore Sports Institute for two years and asked about ensuring adequate medical support for national athletes.
Minister Lawrence Wong explained that the SSI sports medical centre uses visiting physicians, in-house physiotherapists, and partnerships with three public hospitals to provide medical care, and efforts are underway to hire a full-time Sports Physician.
Benedict Tan highlighted the need for both in-house capabilities and network resources for athlete-specific research and asked if the current network model is permanent or interim.
The Minister emphasized timely medical support for athletes, noted that a mix of in-house and partner capabilities is the approach, and mentioned ongoing efforts to strengthen in-house teams and preventive measures like injury-prevention workshops.

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19 Jan 2015

Financial Sustainability Plans for Gardens by the Bay

Gerald Giam asked whether Gardens by the Bay will become commercially self-sustaining, noting an increase in government grants and asking for a timeline.
Khaw Boon Wan explained that Gardens by the Bay is a public garden with most areas free to access, and grants cover operating costs and community programs.
He stated there is no plan to make Gardens by the Bay self-funding, emphasizing its role as a people’s garden for public enjoyment.

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19 Jan 2015

Preservation of National Culinary Heritage

Ms Kuik Shiao-Yin asked about measures to protect culinary heritage and which agency should take primary responsibility, citing the National Heritage Board (NHB).
Minister Lawrence Wong detailed NHB's initiatives, including exhibitions, documentaries, heritage trails, and collaborations with agencies like NEA, WDA, and STB to promote and preserve hawker food culture and culinary arts.
He highlighted specific programs like the Hawker Master Trainer Pilot Programme, the Singapore Food Festival, and plans for Golden Jubilee year activities to celebrate and document Singapore's food heritage.

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19 Jan 2015

Emerging Gaps in Singapore's Sports Participation

Dr Benedict Tan highlighted that Singapore's sports culture is overly focused on medals and academic KPIs, leading to declining participation, especially among youths and blue-collar workers, while international schools foster enjoyment and lifelong sports habits.
He identified ten emerging gaps, including low exercise rates, poor attitudes toward sports, limited opportunities to learn new sports, school focus on winning over participation, declining fitness levels, and inadequate support for veterans and persons with disabilities.
Minister Lawrence Wong acknowledged the concerns and outlined government initiatives like ActiveSG, which has attracted over 670,000 members and increased sports participation rates to above 60%, alongside new sports facilities and inclusive programs for all ages and abilities.
Both speakers emphasized the need to shift mindsets from medal-driven goals to lifelong participation, with Wong noting ongoing collaboration with MOE and agencies to address gaps and leverage events like the SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games to inspire more Singaporeans.

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5 Nov 2014

Public Airing of Songs with Prejudicial Lyrics

The Minister for Communications and Information confirmed that the MDA regulates songs on radio, in retail outlets, and at concerts but does not extend regulation to all public places playing background music, deeming it impractical and disproportionate.
The government encourages retailers and businesses to exercise social responsibility and common sense in selecting music to avoid causing offense, emphasizing public education over regulation.
Dr. Chia Shi-Lu raised concerns about the lack of data on complaints and suggested a feedback mechanism, but the Minister responded that no such system is planned and cases can be addressed if brought forward after initial resolution attempts with businesses.

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4 Nov 2014

Cancellation of International Events due to Problematic Pitch at National Stadium

The unsatisfactory condition of the National Stadium pitch led to the cancellation or postponement of international events, which raised concerns about Singapore's reputation, but the government is working with the private operator to implement remedial measures and restore the pitch for future events like the AFF Suzuki Cup.
Under the public-private partnership arrangement, the private operator bears responsibility for the pitch's performance, and the government can withhold payments for non-performance, with exit clauses available in case of serious breach, though the operator has taken ownership and is investing in solutions.
The government's involvement in selecting the pitch solution was limited to reviewing tests conducted by the private operator, and while there were consultation gaps, ongoing monitoring and expert reviews aim to ensure a robust long-term solution for multi-purpose use of the stadium.

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4 Nov 2014

Government's Plans for Konfrontasi Memorial

The Government plans to unveil two commemorative markers—one for the fight against communism and another for the Konfrontasi—to honor sacrifices and remind future generations of Singapore’s struggles for sovereignty and security, with specific dates and sites chosen for historical significance.
The rationale for selecting these events is their fundamental threat to Singapore’s existence, and the markers aim to create tangible landmarks that underscore the importance of vigilance and a strong defense, with community feedback and government collaboration supporting the initiatives.
The Minister confirmed that ground-up efforts, such as school heritage trails and community projects, are encouraged and supported through funding and resources by the National Heritage Board to incorporate organic initiatives into Singapore’s historical commemoration.

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3 Nov 2014

Access to Fishing along Waterways

Seah Kian Peng asked about the percentage of waterways set aside for fishing, future plans to expand access, issues with irresponsible anglers and regulations, and how Singapore compares globally, citing safety, water quality, and multiple recreational uses.
Vivian Balakrishnan responded that fishing is allowed at designated sites like Pang Sua Canal and 10 reservoirs, with safety and water quality as key concerns, and noted that global comparisons are less meaningful due to Singapore's unique urban conditions.
PUB conducts daily surveillance, issues fines for illegal fishing, and encourages the public to report violations via a hotline while promoting responsible practices.
The Ministry will continue reviewing sites to open for public fishing while balancing safety and multiple uses of water bodies.

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3 Nov 2014

Relevance of Bulan Bahasa in Improving Learning and Use of Malay Language

Bulan Bahasa is an annual Malay Language Council initiative that showcases the Malay language, culture, and heritage, attracting increasing participation and featuring interactive programmes for youth and students.
The government acknowledges the declining use of Malay at home and has implemented educational reforms, such as more interactive teaching methods and Mother Tongue Fortnights, to boost interest and engagement among students.
Efforts like the Lee Kuan Yew Fund for Bilingualism and school programmes aim to inspire younger generations and non-Malays to learn and use Malay, reinforcing its cultural importance in Singapore.

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