Defence & foreign affairs — Topics

13 Sep 2016

Interest Payment on CPF Amount Owed to Members under Full Savings Vesting (FSV) Bonus Scheme

Mr Zainal Sapari asked if the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) will pay interest on CPF amounts owed to servicemen under the Full Savings Vesting Bonus scheme, as noted in the Auditor-General's Report for FY2015/16.
MINDEF is working with the CPF Board to credit the outstanding CPF amounts to affected servicemen.
The credited amount will include interest that could have been earned if CPF contributions had been made on time, in line with CPF guidelines.
This addresses the shortfall highlighted in the Auditor-General's Report regarding the FSV Bonus scheme.
The action ensures compliance with CPF rules and rectifies the issue for servicemen.

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13 Sep 2016

Singapore's Financial Contribution to Support Syrian Refugees

Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked whether Singapore would increase its financial contribution to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees to better support Syrian refugees amid the escalating humanitarian crisis.
Vivian Balakrishnan responded that Singapore supports UNHCR’s efforts and has increased its annual contribution from US$50,000 to US$60,000, noting the country’s limited resources as a small state.
Singapore commends UNHCR and other humanitarian groups, and acknowledges the Syrian conflict’s sixth year has resulted in over 400,000 deaths and more than 4.8 million refugees.
The government emphasizes the need for a political solution to the conflict to ensure civilian safety and humanitarian access, while Singapore’s contribution aligns with other ASEAN countries.

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13 Sep 2016

Fostering Community Unity with SGSecure

SGSecure is a call to action for Singaporeans to unite and prepare for terrorist threats, building on the Community Engagement Programme since 2006 to strengthen communal harmony and resilience.
It focuses on fostering unity after attacks, drawing lessons from incidents like the London 7/7 bombings to prevent distrust and ensure communities support each other regardless of race or religion.
The initiative's pillars, "Stay United" and "Stay Strong," aim to help communities pull together, bounce back quickly, and show they will not be cowed by attacks.
SGSecure will be launched by the Prime Minister on 24 September, with programmes rolled out across schools, workplaces, National Service, and community groups.

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13 Sep 2016

Countries with Extradition Treaties with Singapore

Singapore currently has bilateral extradition treaties with the United States, Hong Kong, and Germany, along with arrangements with 40 Commonwealth countries and special agreements with Malaysia, Brunei, and a pending treaty with Indonesia.
An extradition treaty with another country, such as Thailand, requires mutual agreement, a reciprocal arrangement for law and order, and compatibility between both countries’ legal systems and procedures.
The government is aware of concerns about crimes committed by foreigners who flee to neighbouring countries and is exploring a model ASEAN Extradition Treaty to facilitate future bilateral agreements among ASEAN members.

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13 Sep 2016

Pre-emptive Steps to Tackle Haze

Louis Ng asked what additional steps the Ministry will take to tackle worsening haze, beyond writing to Indonesian officials, while the Minister outlined ongoing actions such as daily haze advisories, regional cooperation through ASEAN, and a haze assistance package to Indonesia.
The Minister emphasized Singapore’s commitment to sustainable procurement, including only buying printing paper with the Singapore Green Label, and encouraged NGOs and businesses to adopt certified palm oil and other eco-friendly practices.
Louis Ng inquired whether the Ministry would extend green procurement to palm oil and consider other certifications like FSC, and the Minister responded that standards like the Singapore Green Label and FSC are recognized, with efforts to promote industry-wide sustainable sourcing.
Ang Wei Neng asked for an update on Singapore’s fire-fighting assistance to Indonesia, and the Minister specified that Singapore offers up to two C-130 aircraft for teams, cloud seeding, and high-resolution satellite imagery if activated.
The debate highlighted multi-faceted pre-emptive measures, including diplomatic engagement, public advisories, regional initiatives, sustainable procurement policies, and direct operational support to address the transboundary haze issue.

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15 Aug 2016

Singapore's Deployment to Support Multinational Coalition against ISIS

Singapore has been part of the multinational coalition against ISIS since December 2014, providing a liaison officer, intelligence planner, imagery analysis team, and KC-135R tanker aircraft, with plans to deploy a medical support team to Iraq in 2017.
The Minister emphasized that terrorism is a long-term threat, citing recent regional incidents and the detention of Singaporeans, and stated that contributions are based on making a real difference to both coalition efforts and Singapore’s security.
In response to a question on potential combat roles, the Minister said future involvement would depend on whether Singapore has a direct security interest and can contribute meaningfully, drawing on past successful support roles in Afghanistan.

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15 Aug 2016

Updates on Safety and Security Preparations

The Ministry of Home Affairs detailed enhanced security measures, including expanded CCTV coverage through PolCam 1.0 and 2.0, increased vigilance via industry-specific workshops, and strengthened emergency response teams to address evolving global and regional terrorism threats.
Officials emphasized the critical role of community resilience through the upcoming SG Secure movement, which includes public advisories, e-learning packages, and inter-faith initiatives like the Inter-Racial and Religious Confidence Circle to maintain social cohesion after any incident.
The government is conducting regular public and institutional emergency exercises, collaborating with international partners like Malaysia and Indonesia to share intelligence, and preparing for multi-site or lone-wolf attacks using everyday items as weapons.

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11 Jul 2016

Regulars, NSmen and NSFs Diagnosed with Mental Health Problems

Mr Dennis Tan asked for annual data since 2011 on regulars, NSmen, and NSFs diagnosed with mental health problems linked to service, how commanders are trained to identify and support affected personnel, and whether the SAF provides treatment and compensation including for those who have left service.
Minister Ng Eng Hen stated that the incidence of mental health conditions among NSFs is about 4% and lower than the national rate, with a multi-pronged approach including training for commanders, monitoring and counselling for servicemen with pre-existing conditions, dedicated psychologists, and a 24-hour hotline.
The SAF follows the Work Injury Compensation Act but generally provides more generous compensation, and medical expenses for treatment at government or restructured hospitals are paid even after servicemen leave service.

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11 Jul 2016

Inclusion of SAF Camps in Smoking Ban

Assoc Prof Randolph Tan asked about the impact of the smoking ban on service personnel and whether all ranks were engaged to understand and support the ban.
Ng Eng Hen noted that the ban is not new, as SAF has restricted smoking to designated areas since 1993, with administrative punishments for violations.
The recent legal inclusion formalised existing rules, allowing SAF to report civilian offenders to the National Environment Agency for enforcement.

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11 Jul 2016

Actions to Reinforce Common ASEAN Position on South China Sea Issue

Singapore, as the ASEAN-China dialogue coordinator, is working to reinforce ASEAN unity and a common position on the South China Sea, including facilitating dialogue and confidence-building measures like a 24/7 maritime hotline and discussions on a Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea.
Singapore maintains a neutral stance, not a claimant state, and supports the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, while emphasizing freedom of navigation and overflight crucial for global trade.
The Foreign Minister noted that ASEAN's consensus-based approach means a joint position on the upcoming arbitration ruling will depend on the ruling itself and member states' assessments, with progress on the Code of Conduct remaining slow.

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11 Jul 2016

Impact of Brexit on Singapore's Economy and Investments

The Deputy Prime Minister outlined that Brexit’s immediate impact was mainly on financial markets with manageable volatility, while longer-term economic uncertainties in the UK and Europe could dampen global growth, though Singapore’s direct short-term impact is expected to be limited.
Temasek and GIC, with diversified long-term portfolios, are assessed to be resilient despite market dislocations, and the Net Investment Returns framework is designed to look beyond short-term fluctuations.
Singapore will maintain its existing talent admission framework, ensuring that foreign professionals are skilled and add value, while not expecting a flood of low-skilled workers due to Brexit.
The Singapore dollar’s trade-weighted basket remains relatively stable despite bilateral movements, and the government is closely monitoring developments to adjust strategies and protect Singapore’s competitiveness.
The government is engaged in diplomatic efforts to advance the EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement and is open to future bilateral negotiations with the UK, though timelines remain uncertain due to the evolving Brexit landscape.

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7 Apr 2016

Committee of Supply – Head J (Ministry of Defence)

Parliament debated Singapore's defence challenges, with members highlighting terrorism, cyber threats, the South China Sea tensions, and hybrid warfare as key security concerns.
The Minister outlined the SAF's preparations, including counter-terrorism task forces, cyber defence expansion, and steady defence spending to address evolving threats.
Discussions also covered National Service improvements, recognition for NSmen, and community engagement through Total Defence and the SAF Volunteer Corps.

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7 Apr 2016

Committee of Supply – Head N (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

The Minister emphasized Singapore's need to maintain unity and relevance amid a messy global environment, highlighting the critical US-China relationship and the importance of a rules-based international order, particularly in the South China Sea.
Senior Ministers discussed deepening ties with key partners like China, Japan, and India, while also engaging emerging markets in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East, and addressing transboundary issues such as the haze and cybersecurity within ASEAN.
Officials outlined MFA's consular and crisis response efforts for Singaporeans abroad, stressing the importance of e-registration and responsible travel, and highlighted Singapore's role in sharing development experiences through the Singapore Cooperation Programme to enhance its international standing.

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6 Apr 2016

Committee of Supply – Head N (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

Parliamentarians raised concerns over the evolving US-China-Japan trilateral dynamic and its impact on Singapore, including the fate of the Trans-Pacific Partnership and tensions in the South China Sea, with calls for Singapore to play a facilitative role in resolving disputes according to international law.
Discussions highlighted the strategic importance of deepening ties with regional powers like India, Australia, and ASEAN neighbors, while also addressing security threats from North Korea and global terrorism, emphasizing the need for collaborative regional efforts.
The debate also covered consular and diaspora challenges, such as supporting Singaporeans overseas amid increasing travel and crises, and leveraging technical cooperation and sustainable development initiatives to enhance Singapore's global reputation and relevance.

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4 Apr 2016

Visit of Dato Roselan Mohd Daud, Brunei's Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister's Office

The Speaker welcomed Brunei's Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, Dato Roselan Mohd Daud, who was present in the parliamentary gallery.
The welcome was given on behalf of all Members of Parliament, accompanied by applause.
The visit underscored diplomatic ties between Singapore and Brunei, with the guest being officially acknowledged in the parliamentary setting.
The session proceeded with formal recognition of the visiting dignitary, reflecting protocol and bilateral relations.
No substantive debate on policy or legislation occurred; the segment was purely ceremonial and diplomatic in nature.

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4 Apr 2016

Framework for Healthcare Institutions in line with Counter-terrorism Plans

Assoc Prof Fatimah Lateef inquired if the Ministry of Health would create a framework for healthcare institutions to align with national counter-terrorism plans, following recent security initiatives.
The Minister of State for Health outlined that public healthcare institutions already maintain baseline security measures and are reviewing plans with the Ministry of Home Affairs to address heightened threats, with the review expected to be completed in a few months.
In response to follow-up questions, the Minister confirmed that security awareness programs would be extended to all staff levels, including non-medical personnel, and that private healthcare institutions follow guidelines and participate in Police-led workgroups to ensure alignment with national security efforts.

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24 Mar 2016

Compensation for National Servicemen Injured During Service Period

The Ministry of Defence provides comprehensive support for National Servicemen injured during service, including covering all medical expenses for treatment at government or restructured hospitals, even after service or if injuries recur.
Compensation for permanent disabilities from service-related injuries is provided, equivalent to the Work Injury Compensation Act but doubled for military training or operations, with additional amounts for total permanent disability.
Welfare support is available through the SAF Benevolent Fund, which offers a $12,000 one-off grant for immediate needs and up to $42,000 annually for mid-to-long-term assistance, with eligibility re-assessed every two years and no renewal limit.
The SAF Care Fund provides a one-off Helping Hand Grant of up to $5,000 and a monthly $300 Care Support Grant, with eligibility re-assessed every three years and no renewal limit.
These assistance schemes aim to ensure the well-being of injured National Servicemen and their families, with no specified caps on the amounts or tenures for most grants, subject to periodic re-assessment.

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24 Mar 2016

Punishment for SAF Officers Involved in Exercises that Lead to Deaths or Injuries

Minister Ng Eng Hen explained that in the 2012 case where a National Serviceman died from an allergic reaction to smoke grenades, the Coroner found the reaction was unlikely to have been predicted, so the Attorney-General’s Chambers decided not to prosecute the two SAF officers criminally.
The officers were instead charged under military law for breaching safety regulations and punished with fines and delayed promotions, which the Minister said was consistent with similar offences and resulted in a setback to their careers.
The Minister emphasized that SAF’s safety standards are high and that prosecutions in civilian courts occur when there is evidence of reckless or negligent acts, as seen in two other cited cases where officers were fined or jailed.
In response to a supplementary question, the Minister noted that promotion delays are based on the severity of the offence and that the Government Proceedings Act provides necessary protection for security forces to act without undue fear during operations and training.
The Minister stated that while tragic, the case was handled through independent judicial processes, and any changes to liability laws should be debated by Parliament, balancing accountability with the need to maintain effective training and operations.

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14 Mar 2016

Strategies to Identify Potential Radicalised Groups

Security agencies in Singapore will continue monitoring and investigating signs of radicalisation, sharing intelligence with foreign partners to address transnational threats.
The Minister emphasised that society, including families, employers, and workers, must collectively help safeguard against radicalisation by reporting suspicious activities.
Assoc Prof Fatimah Lateef asked about specific action plans for dormitory operators to act as "eyes and ears" and thresholds for addressing foreign worker gatherings.
The Minister confirmed dormitories follow security guidelines and that the government is considering broader societal involvement, while noting lower crime rates among foreign workers but ongoing management of gatherings.
Plans are being developed to address these issues, with the Ministry set to announce further measures soon.

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29 Feb 2016

Teenager Holding Dual Citizenship Seeking Exemption from National Service

David Ong asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if discussions were held with New Zealand regarding a teenager with dual Singapore and New Zealand citizenship seeking exemption from National Service, and if so, the progress.
Vivian Balakrishnan stated that New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade requested a point of contact for the case, which Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs provided from the Ministry of Defence.
The Ministry conveyed Singapore’s citizenship laws and National Service principles, noting that under the Enlistment Act, all Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents above 18 must serve NS, and the teenager, as a citizen, is liable even if he later renounces his citizenship.
The teenager was advised to return to Singapore to resolve the matter, as Singapore upholds universality and equity in NS, ensuring all citizens fulfill their obligations regardless of residence.

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