Defence & foreign affairs — Topics

29 Feb 2016

Impact of NS IPPT Scheme Enhancement on First-attempt Pass Rate

The Minister reported that the new three-station IPPT format has led to NSmen performing better on the common 2.4km run and sit-ups, with average improvements of 16 seconds and five sit-ups respectively.
Overall first-attempt pass rates for the new format ranged from 70% to 97% across age categories, and the new scoring system encourages NSmen to compensate for weaker stations by excelling in others.
There has been an increase in the proportion of NSmen receiving monetary awards, with Gold and Silver awards up by 4% to about 30% and Pass with Incentive awards up by 9% to about 30%.
The SAF views the results as encouraging, indicating the format change has motivated better training and performance, and will continue supporting NSmen with flexible IPPT preparatory programmes.

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29 Feb 2016

Registration of Criminals (Amendment) Bill

The Bill allows Singapore to share criminal records, fingerprints, and photographs with foreign law enforcement agencies on a reciprocal basis, with safeguards including undertakings on confidentiality and restricted use, to combat transnational crime and terrorism.
It expands police powers to collect biometric data from individuals released on bail or personal bond, addressing operational gaps during mass arrests or hospitalisations.
Concerns were raised about the due diligence in assessing foreign agencies' ability to safeguard information, especially within ASEAN, and the potential impact on Singaporeans' privacy and travel, with the government emphasising ongoing evaluations and protections.
The amendments align with international agreements like the US Preventing and Combating Serious Crime Agreement, supporting Singapore's participation in programmes such as the US Visa-Waiver Programme.
The Bill was supported by parliamentarians, with emphasis on balancing security needs with privacy safeguards, and passed without amendment.

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29 Feb 2016

Payment for Rental of Sports Hub for Extra Rehearsal Days for National Day Parade

The Minister for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen, stated that NDP 2016 at the National Stadium is expected to cost about $39.4 million, with venue costs at 15% (approximately $5.91 million) due to it being a private venue, compared to previous NDPs at public sites like the Padang and Marina Bay Platform which had lower venue costs.
The Government acknowledges the higher costs but highlights advantages such as increased spectator capacity (275,000 people) compared to previous venues, while noting that detailed cost breakdowns are not provided in the Budget and future costs for using the Sports Hub are theoretical and unspecified.
Parliament members raised concerns about the rental agreement allowing only 45 days for rehearsals versus the estimated 80 days needed, the lack of dispute resolution mechanisms in the public-private partnership, and the justification for using SG50 NDP costs as a benchmark for future parades.

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28 Jan 2016

Update on Singapore Military's Support to Anti-ISIS Coalition

Singapore has supported the anti-ISIS coalition since 2014 with a liaison officer to US Central Command and an imagery analysis team in Kuwait, with the latter recently extended for another year in 2016.
The Minister emphasized that Singapore’s involvement is driven by the need to counter the globalized threat of terrorism, citing regional attacks and the arrest of radicalized individuals in Singapore as evidence of the risk.
The Defence Ministry stated that contributions are assessed regularly for effectiveness and relevance, with Singapore focusing on niche capabilities like imagery analysis and planning, as well as strengthening internal coordination with the Home Team.

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27 Jan 2016

Singapore's Stance on Syrian Refugees

Singapore expresses sympathy for Syrian refugees but has a long-standing policy against accepting any persons seeking refugee status due to its limited land and densely packed nature as a city-state.
The government emphasizes that a political solution is essential to end the Syrian conflict, supporting international efforts like UN Security Council Resolution 2254, while also noting the challenges posed by terrorist groups in the region.
Singaporeans are encouraged to donate to legitimate humanitarian organizations, such as the Singapore Red Cross and MUIS's Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation, to provide emergency relief and support for displaced Syrians.
The government acknowledges the severe humanitarian crisis in besieged cities like Aleppo and Deir ez-Zor but maintains that its ability to assist directly is limited until a political solution and stability are achieved in Syria.
Ongoing instability in Syria is seen as a global security concern, including for Singapore, due to the risk of extremism and terrorism spilling over into Southeast Asia.

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27 Jan 2016

Ensuring Security in Light of Recent Terrorist Attacks

In response to heightened terror threats across Southeast Asia and Singapore's status as a travel hub, the government has adopted a multi-pronged approach to strengthen border security, enhance internal vigilance, and improve preparedness for attacks.
Key measures include enhanced checks at air, land, and sea checkpoints; increased patrols and surveillance (including more CCTV cameras and public cooperation via apps); and collaboration with businesses through the Safety and Security Watch Group (SSWG) to harden potential targets.
The government emphasises community resilience and vigilance, noting that terrorism aims to instil fear and divide society, and that collective effort is needed to prevent and respond to attacks.

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15 Jan 2016

Prime Minister's Office (National Security Coordination Secretariat)

Singapore faces an increasingly complex threat landscape, including terrorism, viruses, cyber threats, and social fissures, which the NSCS addresses by anticipating risks and coordinating preparedness across agencies and stakeholders.
The NSCS collaborates with schools, businesses, and the public through the "Let's Stand Together" campaign to raise awareness and gather feedback for enhancing civic responsibility and social resilience.
NSCS studies interdependencies among critical infrastructures like energy, water, and transport to identify vulnerabilities and minimize systemic impacts during crises, emphasizing the need for societal bounce-back and unity.
Social resilience is central, with NSCS working to understand factors like social trust and the dual role of social media in managing crises, while promoting collective readiness in a Smart Nation context.
The NSCS engages in cross-agency research and solutions for cybersecurity and ICT challenges to protect Singaporeans in an increasingly connected digital environment.

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15 Jan 2016

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Singapore must navigate an increasingly complex global landscape characterized by shifting power dynamics, rising nationalism, and regional disputes, while leveraging opportunities like the ASEAN Economic Community and Trans-Pacific Partnership to secure its relevance and prosperity.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will prioritize three key thrusts: maintaining Singapore's international relevance, creating overseas opportunities for citizens through economic and cultural diplomacy, and providing robust consular support for nationals abroad.
ASEAN remains the cornerstone of Singapore's foreign policy, with the country set to chair ASEAN in 2018, hosting key summits to promote regional integration and ASEAN identity while deepening ties with major powers and neighbouring countries like Malaysia and Indonesia.
Singapore will strengthen bilateral relations with key partners such as the US, China, India, and Australia, while expanding engagement in multilateral forums like the UN and WTO to contribute to global issues such as climate change and trade liberalization.
To expand its international space, Singapore will pursue new markets in emerging regions, support economic initiatives like the ASEAN Economic Community and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, and enhance community outreach for overseas Singaporeans through consular and cultural programs.

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15 Jan 2016

Ministry of Defence

Singapore faces a complex security landscape with modernising militaries, nationalism, territorial disputes, terrorism, and cyber threats, requiring a credible defence for sovereignty.
The SAF is evolving through technological advancements like unmanned systems and robotics to enhance capabilities and adapt to a shrinking workforce, while developing cyber defences.
National Service remains central, with ongoing improvements to the NS experience and the launch of the SAF Volunteer Corps to broaden community involvement.
Singapore is strengthening bilateral and regional partnerships, including with China, the US, India, and Australia, and promoting multilateral platforms like the ADMM-Plus for peace and stability.
MINDEF commits to prudent spending and long-term stewardship to ensure the SAF is prepared to defend Singapore amid evolving threats.

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15 Jan 2016

President's Address

The President reflected on Singapore’s 50th anniversary, highlighting the nation’s unity and the enduring challenges of a small country with no natural resources, regional dependence, and threats like terrorism.
He outlined five key government aims: ensuring national security, renewing the economy through skills and innovation, fostering a caring society, transforming urban landscapes, and engaging citizens in nation-building.
The President emphasized the need for a capable and honest political system with checks and balances, including mechanisms like NCMPs, NMPs, and GRCs, to maintain stability and progress for Singapore’s future.

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18 Aug 2015

Bombing in Central Bangkok

The Minister condemned the Bangkok bombing that killed over 20 people and injured 120, including one Singaporean fatality and seven injured Singaporeans, extending condolences to victims and solidarity with Thailand.
He confirmed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Singapore's embassy are actively assisting affected Singaporeans, providing consular support and hospital visits.
The Minister emphasized that such attacks on civilians are unjustifiable and called for the perpetrators to be brought to justice.
He acknowledged this as part of a recurring pattern of terror attacks and expressed deep regret over the tragic loss of innocent lives.
The Singapore government reaffirmed its commitment to helping victims and cooperating with Thai authorities on the ongoing investigation.

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18 Aug 2015

Land Assessment Tax for PUB's Waterworks in Johor

The debate concerns a land assessment tax notice from the Kota Tinggi District Council to PUB's Johor River Waterworks, which would more than double the tax rate and apply a category created solely for PUB.
Minister Shanmugam stated that the 1962 Water Agreement governs PUB's obligations and does not require PUB to pay this land assessment tax, and that Singapore has raised concerns through diplomatic channels with Malaysia.
Singapore has engaged the Malaysian federal government, including through Third Person Notes and direct talks between ministers and prime ministers, seeking resolution in line with the Separation Agreement guaranteeing Johor's compliance with the 1962 Water Agreement.

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17 Aug 2015

Use of New Technology to Augment and Modernise SAF's Existing Fighting Force

The Ministry of Defence and Singapore Armed Forces are incorporating new technologies like unmanned systems and robotics to multiply combat effectiveness and address population constraints, with UAVs providing persistent situational awareness and USVs and UGVs being trialed for maritime and land security.
The SAF is enhancing its cyber defence capabilities through new units and advanced infocomm technology, AI, and big data analytics to protect military networks against evolving threats like cyberattacks.
The Army is doubling the number of mobile, wheeled or tracked units over the next 10 to 15 years, including deploying more Terrex Infantry Carrier Vehicles and Peacekeeper Protected Response Vehicles to improve mobility, firepower, and area influence.

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17 Aug 2015

Opportunities for Women in Singapore Armed Forces

The Minister affirmed that the Singapore Armed Forces operates on a meritocratic system where women are given equal opportunities to advance, with examples cited of women holding high-ranking positions such as Division Sergeant Major, Brigadier-General, and Commanding Officer.
The Minister confirmed that women could be appointed to top military leadership roles like Chief of the Army or Chief of Defence Force if they are meritorious, while noting that appointments to political office fall under the Prime Minister's purview.
The Minister agreed that promotions are structured and require a series of appointments, and emphasized the need for gender-neutral standards and postings to ensure qualified women are not denied opportunities.
The Minister highlighted that SAF’s policies support the life-cycle needs of servicewomen, align with international agreements like UN CEDAW, and aim to attract more women to contribute to national defence.

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14 Jul 2015

Rise in Singapore's Mean Daily Temperature

Christopher de Souza asked about Singapore's potential temperature rise and the country's efforts to achieve international consensus on reducing global warming.
Vivian Balakrishnan cited a study projecting a temperature increase of 1.4°C to 4.6°C by 2100, depending on future emissions, and highlighted Singapore's active role in multilateral climate negotiations, including the Paris COP-21.
Singapore submitted its mitigation pledge ahead of the Paris Conference to encourage global participation and emphasized that climate change requires collective action from all countries.

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14 Jul 2015

Feedback on Changes to Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT)

More than 90% of National Servicemen found the new IPPT format more convenient for training, and over 95% have opted for the three-station test since its implementation in April 2015.
The new IPPT's points system has led to average improvements of five sit-ups and 21 seconds in the 2.4-km run, with 73% of servicemen achieving average or better in the new push-up station.
The Ministry is confident the changes motivate servicemen to take greater ownership of their fitness and improve performance, complementing combat-specific programmes like those for Commandos.

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14 Jul 2015

Ratio of Psychiatrists and Case Managers to National Servicemen

Mrs Lina Chiam asked for the current ratio of psychiatrists and case managers to National Servicemen per 100 servicemen and the number exempted from NS due to mental health disorders since 2005.
Ng Eng Hen responded that about 400 pre-enlistees with severe mental health disorders are exempted from NS annually.
The SAF has over 1,200 mental health professionals including psychiatrists, counsellors, and psychologists, with a psychiatrist ratio more than twice that of the national population.
The SAF also uses resources from the national healthcare system, such as the Institute of Mental Health and psychiatric departments in restructured hospitals.
The SAF Psychiatry Specialist Advisory Board, with senior psychiatrists from public hospitals, will ensure National Servicemen receive good care during NS.

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14 Jul 2015

Maritime Offences (Amendment) Bill

The Maritime Offences (Amendment) Bill seeks to update Singapore's laws to align with the 1988 SUA FPP protocol, which targets unlawful acts against fixed offshore platforms like oil rigs.
The amendment introduces new offences including hijacking, intentional destruction or damage, and violent threats against fixed platforms, with penalties of life imprisonment.
The Bill extends jurisdiction to cover acts regardless of location or nationality and allows extradition of offenders to other countries party to the SUA FPP.
The changes aim to protect Singapore's maritime sector, which contributes 7% to GDP and employs over 170,000 people, by enhancing safety and security for fixed platforms.
The amendment underscores Singapore's commitment to international maritime security efforts and ensures domestic laws meet SUA FPP obligations before accession.

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13 Jul 2015

Rohingya Situation in Myanmar

Mr Gerald Giam asked the Government to outline its foreign policy on the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar and whether concerns have been raised with Myanmar officials.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs stated that the Government’s policy would be detailed in a subsequent oral reply to related questions.
The Government confirmed it has communicated its views on communal tensions in Myanmar but declined to disclose details due to diplomatic confidentiality.

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13 Jul 2015

Deterring Cross-border Human Trafficking in ASEAN

Christopher de Souza inquired whether Myanmar can be compelled under the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration to address the Rohingya crisis and what diplomatic pressures could curb alleged human trafficking against them, citing specific articles.
He also asked if ASEAN will act collectively under Article 13 of the declaration to deter cross-border human trafficking, especially after mass graves were found along the Thai-Malaysian border.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, K Shanmugam, responded that the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration is aspirational and not legally binding, so ASEAN cannot force Myanmar to act but encourages adherence to its spirit through dialogue.
He outlined ASEAN’s cooperative efforts, including adopting a convention and plan of action against trafficking, coordinating with Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, and establishing a trust fund and potential task force for crisis response.
The Minister emphasized the need for international and regional cooperation beyond ASEAN, such as through the Bali Process, to address the trafficking syndicates and support affected countries.

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