Defence & foreign affairs — Topics

13 Jul 2015

Security Measures for Shangri-La Dialogue

Police implemented multi-stage security measures for the Shangri-La Dialogue, including road blocks, vehicle checks for explosives, and concrete barriers to deter and slow vehicles.
The Deputy Prime Minister outlined police rules of engagement, stating that officers may use lethal force as a last resort if a vehicle breaches checks and poses an imminent threat, under section 63 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
A coroner's inquiry will be conducted to establish the circumstances of the driver's death, and the Ministry of Home Affairs is reviewing the incident to ensure security measures remain effective.
The government emphasized the real threat of terrorism and the need for public vigilance, citing past incidents globally and in Singapore involving vehicle-borne explosives.

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11 May 2015

China's Building of Airstrip on Spratly Islands in South China Sea

Christopher de Souza questioned how China's construction of an airstrip on contested territory in the Spratly Islands might affect long-term peace and cooperation in ASEAN and the region.
K Shanmugam stated that Singapore, as a non-claimant state, does not take a position on competing claims but emphasizes the need for peaceful resolution, adherence to international law, and the preservation of freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea.
He highlighted that ASEAN and China should work together to implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties and accelerate the Code of Conduct to manage tensions and prevent escalation.
The response underscored that peace depends on all parties refraining from provocative actions and fulfilling international obligations, with ASEAN playing a neutral role in de-escalation.
Shanmugam expressed optimism that deep ASEAN-China cooperation will continue, with constructive management of the South China Sea issue serving the region's long-term interests.

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11 May 2015

Singapore's Assistance in Nepal Earthquake

Singapore quickly sent a large disaster relief team to Nepal after the 25 April 2015 earthquake, including search-and-rescue, police, and medical personnel, and provided financial aid through the Singapore Red Cross.
The government also mobilized crisis response teams to assist stranded Singaporeans, ensured their safe evacuation, and encouraged citizens to register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during overseas travel.
While Singapore has not yet committed to long-term reconstruction, officials indicated readiness to contribute expertise and support once Nepal’s needs are clearer, with NGOs also playing a role.

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13 Apr 2015

Limits on Transport of Gold and Other Precious Metals In and Out of Singapore

The government confirmed there is no weight limit for travellers transporting gold or precious metals in and out of Singapore, with controls focused on domestic sales to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.
Diplomatic baggage is generally exempt from screening under international conventions, but security checks can be conducted if there are serious grounds for believing prohibited or controlled items are being carried.
Officials stated that gold is not considered a security threat, so it would not be flagged during standard pre-boarding screening, and the case involving a diplomat carrying gold bars did not involve a security lapse at Changi Airport.
Concerns about diplomatic bags being exploited for smuggling were acknowledged as an international protocol issue, not unique to Singapore, with assurances that agencies can act if security threats are suspected.

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6 Mar 2015

Estimates of Expenditure for the Financial Year 1 April 2015 to 31 March 2016

The Ministry of Defence presented its expenditure estimates for the financial year from 1 April 2015 to 31 March 2016, detailing its budget allocation for defense readiness and capabilities.
Several Members of Parliament questioned the ministry on its spending priorities, particularly regarding investments in new defense technology and the upkeep of existing military assets.
The Ministry of Defence explained that the budget was carefully calibrated to maintain a strong and credible deterrence while being fiscally responsible and supporting the well-being of Singapore Armed Forces personnel.
The debates highlighted the importance of investing in both conventional and cyber defense capabilities to address evolving security threats in the region.
The Committee of Supply ultimately approved the ministry's expenditure estimates after considering the clarifications provided by the Minister.

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5 Mar 2015

Committee of Supply – Head J (Ministry of Defence)

MPs highlighted the historical significance of SAF50 and the importance of remembering the contributions of National Service pioneers, while also discussing the need to strengthen community support for National Service through initiatives like the restructured ACCORD and the new SAF Volunteer Corps.
Debate centered on regional security concerns, including the arms race in ASEAN, the South China Sea disputes, and the growing military presence of major powers like the US and China, with MPs seeking updates on Singapore's defence diplomacy and bilateral relations.
MINDEF outlined its plans to modernize the SAF with new platforms and technologies, emphasizing the need to adapt to hybrid warfare threats and demographic challenges, while assuring steady defence spending and prudent resource management.

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5 Mar 2015

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

Sitoh Yih Pin emphasized the need for Singapore to stay relevant as a small state through soft power, citing examples like Singaporean food, entertainment, and infrastructure, and proposed a Directorate of Soft Power within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).
MPs discussed Singapore’s relations with neighbors Malaysia and Indonesia, ASEAN integration, and the importance of ASEAN centrality, with updates provided on bilateral ties and the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) benefits for Singapore.
The debate covered major power relations, including the US-China dynamic and tensions in the South China Sea, with MFA highlighting Singapore’s role in promoting dialogue and a Code of Conduct, while addressing risks to freedom of navigation.

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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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29 Jan 2015

Recognition for Efforts of SVC and PDF Volunteers in SG50 Celebrations

Christopher de Souza asked that the efforts of Singapore Volunteer Corps and People's Defence Force volunteers around independence be recognised and retold during SG50 celebrations in 2015.
Ng Eng Hen stated that these volunteers played a key role in Singapore’s security across major conflicts and will be honoured through SAF50 commemorative materials and the SG50 Pioneer Spirit Campaign.
The Ministry of Defence will also share these stories via Commitment to Defence Ambassadors who engage students and servicemen with their experiences.

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29 Jan 2015

Singapore's Contributions to Search and Rescue Mission for AirAsia Flight QZ8501

Singapore immediately offered assistance to Indonesia after AirAsia Flight QZ8501 went missing, deploying C-130 aircraft, naval ships, helicopters, and specialized underwater search assets.
The multi-agency mission involved over 400 personnel, including SAF, Civil Aviation Authority, police, and forensic experts, and lasted 22 days before Indonesian authorities took over.
The Minister highlighted key lessons: the need for high operational readiness, realistic training for adverse conditions, and strong regional bilateral relationships for effective disaster response.

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29 Jan 2015

Additional Anti-terrorism Measures as Singapore Supports Coalition against ISIS

Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean confirmed that Singapore’s security agencies cooperate internationally to share terrorism watch-lists and deny entry to individuals posing a threat, though no measure is foolproof against “clean skins” or lone-wolf attackers.
There is no specific heightened threat to Singapore from its coalition support against ISIS, but the global rise in self-radicalisation and lone-wolf attacks remains a concern, requiring community vigilance and ideological counter-efforts.
The government emphasises public resilience, urging Singaporeans to stay united, report suspicious activities, and not let fear disrupt daily life, while prepared for temporary security tightening if threats escalate.

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20 Jan 2015

Indonesia's Relations with Singapore and ASEAN

Assoc Prof Fatimah Lateef asked whether Indonesia’s new leadership would affect Singapore-Indonesia bilateral ties and ASEAN cooperation.
K Shanmugam affirmed strong and broad-based Singapore-Indonesia relations, citing mutual respect, cooperation in various sectors, and joint crisis response.
He highlighted recent high-level engagement, including meetings between Prime Minister Lee and President Joko Widodo, and both countries’ commitment to ASEAN centrality and regional stability.
Singapore is confident that Indonesia will continue to play a constructive role in ASEAN and the region, with cooperation expected to deepen.

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20 Jan 2015

Progress Made by Multinational Coalition Forces in Fight against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria

Christopher de Souza requested an update on coalition progress against ISIS and the morale of SAF troops deployed in the region.
Ng Eng Hen referenced a prior parliamentary update from January 2015 on Singapore's participation in the coalition.
No new information on current coalition progress or troop morale was provided in the debate.
The response directed attention to an official report for details on Singapore's earlier deployment.

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20 Jan 2015

Progress on Relocation of Paya Lebar Airbase

The relocation of Paya Lebar Airbase is a long-term project expected to be completed around 2030 and beyond, with expansions at Changi Airbase East and Tengah Airbase to accommodate assets and maintain operational readiness.
Ministries of Defence and National Development are currently focused on detailed planning, including constructing a new runway at Changi and designing facilities at Tengah, while ensuring coordination with Changi Airport’s ongoing expansion.
The Republic of Singapore Air Force is strengthening its capabilities with systems like the ASTER-30 missile system and aerostat technology to safeguard Singapore’s security during the transition.

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20 Jan 2015

Extradition of Singapore-based Chinese Nationals Suspected of Corruption in China

MP Gan Thiam Poh asked the Foreign Affairs Minister whether China has requested Singapore’s assistance in extraditing Chinese nationals suspected of corruption and recovering illicit gains since 2014, and how many cases exist.
The Minister replied that Singapore does not comment on specific foreign legal assistance or extradition requests, in line with international practice, but affirmed China’s anti-corruption efforts are welcomed by foreign investors.
The Minister highlighted Singapore’s strong stance against corruption, its enhancements to mutual legal assistance laws in 2014, and its active role in international anti-corruption cooperation forums like APEC.
The Minister stated Singapore is prepared to study any foreign request for assistance, including asset recovery, based on the merits and in accordance with domestic laws and international obligations.

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20 Jan 2015

Implementation of Beijing Declaration on Fighting Corruption

Singapore, as part of the Beijing Declaration on Fighting Corruption, is committed to international cooperation through mutual legal assistance, exchanges of best practices, and capacity-building with APEC members.
Singapore has a legal framework, including the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act (MACMA), to support transnational anti-corruption efforts while safeguarding its legal integrity and sovereignty.
Singapore actively participates in the APEC Network of Anti-Corruption Authorities and Law Enforcement Agencies (ACT-NET) to share information and best practices, with the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) involved in key meetings and workshops.
The CPIB will continue to provide cooperation and assistance, such as training and study visits, to anti-corruption counterparts in the Asia-Pacific region to strengthen collective efforts.

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19 Jan 2015

Breakdown of Number of Graduates and Non-graduates Commissioned as SAF Officers

Mrs Lina Chiam asked the Minister for Defence for the current breakdown of graduates and non-graduates commissioned as SAF officers at commissioning and whether Junior College BMT batches have more officer placements than non-Junior College BMT batches.
Minister Ng Eng Hen stated that NSFs are selected for officer roles based on operational and manpower needs, as well as individual suitability, interest, medical fitness, aptitude, and BMT performance.
Most officers are selected from NSFs with GCE "A" levels or Polytechnic diplomas before university, with 11–13% of combat-fit "A" level holders and 10–14% of polytechnic diploma holders commissioned over the last three years.

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19 Jan 2015

Reclamation of Lim Chu Kang Farm Land for Military Use

The government will reclaim Lim Chu Kang farm land for military training due to land constraints, with steps to minimize impact on agriculture, including offering new farm sites in Sungei Tengah and other areas.
New farm leases will be 10 years with potential extensions, providing greater certainty for farmers compared to previous short-term arrangements.
Affected farms have been given extended timelines to transition, with leases expiring between 2014 and 2021 accommodated to allow time for bidding or alternative plans.
The Agriculture Productivity Fund and study trips are being used to help farmers improve productivity and better utilize limited land resources.

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19 Jan 2015

Recognition for Soldiers who Died while in Service as Part of SG50 Celebrations

Gan Thiam Poh asked if the Ministry of Defence would give an award or grant to families of soldiers who died in service since 1965 as part of SG50 celebrations.
Ng Eng Hen stated that the SAF’s awards and grants are based on principles of recognition and compensation, with awards for exceptional courage and compensation based on the Work Injury Compensation Act.
He explained it would be inappropriate to vary criteria for awards or grants based on special occasions like SG50 to maintain equity across generations.
Ng Eng Hen mentioned that commemorative efforts by units will acknowledge all who contributed to building the SAF during SG50 celebrations to inspire future generations.
He emphasized that these efforts aim to recognize sacrifices and strengthen resolve to keep Singapore safe and secure.

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19 Jan 2015

Results of Survey for Land Reclamation Project in Straits of Johor

Singapore remains committed to working with Malaysia to address concerns over reclamation projects in the Straits of Johor, having conveyed requests for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports and held consultations, but Malaysia's internal EIA processes are not yet completed and reclamation works have been suspended pending finalization.
Singapore has reiterated that under international law, particularly UNCLOS, both countries are obliged to share EIA reports for projects with transboundary impact before commencement, and is seeking clarification and the finalised EIA reports from Malaysia expeditiously.
Singapore plans to conduct its own independent assessment of the project's environmental impact once sufficient information is obtained from Malaysia, and prefers to work within the international legal framework rather than unilaterally stopping the project.

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