Defence & foreign affairs — Topics

19 Jan 2015

Singapore's Participation in Coalition against ISIS

Mr Alex Yam asked about the number of troops deployed, their involvement, and potential requests for greater support in the coalition against ISIS, to which the Minister for Defence responded that the SAF has sent assessment teams and liaisons and will deploy planners and a tanker, but it is premature to determine further support requests.
The Minister emphasized Singapore's commitment to the coalition due to the transnational threat of ISIS, noting global efforts have degraded ISIS capabilities and that neighboring countries like Malaysia have increased vigilance.
Mr Yam raised concerns about heightened risks to Singapore following attacks in other countries linked to coalition participation, and the Minister advised directing security assessments to the Ministry of Home Affairs while stressing the importance of national unity and community resilience against extremism.

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5 Nov 2014

Provision of English Language Courses for Foreign Army Officers

Mrs Lina Chiam asked about the tender process for an English language course for a People’s Liberation Army officer, including details on the tender amount and award circumstances.
The Minister for Defence explained that language courses are standard for foreign officers to ensure they can benefit from military exchanges, with a 360-hour one-on-one course tendered via GeBiz and awarded to the lowest compliant bidder at $25,900.
The Minister confirmed that MINDEF routinely provides language courses for foreign officers as part of relationship-building, with some reciprocity from other countries, though not all offer it.

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4 Nov 2014

Rationale for Relocation of Central Manpower Base

Pritam Singh questioned the anticipated cost, rationale, and alternatives for relocating the Central Manpower Base (CMPB) to a site near the upcoming Cashew MRT station.
Ng Eng Hen explained that the current CMPB has space constraints, forcing the segregation of essential services, which is inefficient for pre-enlistees and NSmen.
The new Gombak site was chosen as the best available option to centralise facilities, improve service integration, and enhance accessibility via proximity to the Cashew MRT station.
MINDEF plans to call a public tender for the new CMPB by early 2016, with costs to be disclosed at that time.
The move aims to provide a one-stop centre for National Service-related functions, including human resources, finance, and medical screening.

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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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4 Nov 2014

Visit of Delegation from Hungarian National Assembly

Mdm Speaker warmly welcomed the Hungarian National Assembly delegation led by Speaker Laszlo Kover to the Singapore Parliament Gallery, with applause from hon Members.
The debate focused on the official visit, fostering parliamentary diplomacy and bilateral relations between Singapore and Hungary.
The Speaker highlighted the presence of the delegation as a significant step in strengthening ties between the two legislatures.

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3 Nov 2014

Special Consideration for Vocation of NS Enlistees with Special Needs

Lim Biow Chuan asked whether NS enlistees with special needs can receive special consideration in their vocation to better integrate and fulfill their obligations.
Ng Eng Hen explained that MINDEF assesses each individual’s capabilities and deploys them to vocations where they can serve safely and meaningfully without risk to themselves or others.
Additional support includes informing commanders of servicemen needing supervision, providing a 24-hour counselling hotline, and ensuring well-being is safeguarded throughout service.

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3 Nov 2014

Singapore Armed Forces' Contribution to Fight against ISIS

The Minister for Defence confirmed that the SAF will join the US-led coalition against ISIS by providing non-combat support, including liaison officers, a tanker aircraft, and an imagery analysis team, but will not deploy combat troops to Iraq or Syria.
The government emphasized that ISIS poses a direct transnational threat to Singapore and the region, citing the presence of Southeast Asian fighters in Syria and Iraq and the need for international cooperation to address the security risk.
Singapore has taken diplomatic steps against ISIS, including supporting UN resolutions and condemning its actions, while also engaging in domestic efforts to counter radicalization through community and religious leaders.
The Minister reassured that security measures are in place to monitor and prevent Singaporeans from joining extremist groups, with laws allowing detention of those who show intent to travel for militant purposes.
The debate highlighted the importance of national unity and resilience, urging Singaporeans to remain vigilant but not allow fear to divide society, while the SAF and other agencies work to protect citizens.

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8 Oct 2014

Update on Special Access for Indian Businesses under Bilateral Free Trade Agreement

Minister Lim Hng Kiang confirmed that the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) with India has facilitated increased bilateral trade and investment since 2005, with specific provisions for temporary business entry and banking licenses.
The debate clarified that CECA grants India specific privileges, such as longer periods for intra-corporate transferees (eight years versus the WTO standard of five), but Singapore retains the right to regulate overall immigration and employment measures.
Gerald Giam sought assurance that the government would not yield to Indian pressure for more work passes, with the minister affirming that all CECA terms are strictly followed and any disputes can be addressed through the agreement’s dispute settlement process.

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7 Oct 2014

Explanation for Classification of Documentary Film "To Singapore, With Love"

The Minister explained that the film "To Singapore, With Love" was classified Not Allowed for All Ratings (NAR) because it presents a misleading and one-sided account of the Communist Party of Malaya's violent history, whitewashing actions that threatened Singapore's security and failing to renounce violence, which would undermine national security if publicly screened.
The Media Development Authority (MDA) follows existing Films Classification Guidelines, which state that films undermining national interest or security can be disallowed for all ratings; specific guidelines for historical content are not planned, but MDA supports documentaries that provide balanced insights into Singapore's past without breaching these guidelines.
Private screenings of NAR-classified films are permitted, and educational institutions can request approvals for restricted screenings to facilitate academic discussion, as demonstrated by Yale-NUS College's approved screening for a course on documentary conflicts.
The Minister noted that MDA engages filmmakers to explain classification decisions and is open to discussions, but it is the filmmaker's responsibility to consult guidelines during production; MDA does not proactively engage all 10,000 film submissions annually but clarifies rationale when asked.
The government will challenge films that distort historical facts or attack the legitimacy of security actions, as failing to do so could erode public confidence in handling current threats, while supporting balanced public education through approved documentaries like Channel NewsAsia's "Days of Rage."

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7 Oct 2014

Diplomatic Pressure on Self-declared Islamic State in Iraq

Singapore strongly condemned the acts of the Islamic State (IS) and supported United Nations Security Council Resolutions 2170 and 2178 to combat terrorism and foreign fighter movements.
The Minister highlighted the global threat posed by IS, including the mobilization of fighters from over 80 countries and the risks of returning terrorists, citing examples in Belgium, Australia, and within the region.
A multi-faceted approach was emphasized, combining international military coalitions with political solutions in Iraq and Syria, and countering extremist ideologies through community and religious engagement.

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7 Oct 2014

Security Threat from Islamic State of Iraq and Syria

Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean confirmed an increased security threat to Singapore from ISIS, citing the group's recruitment of foreign fighters, brutal tactics, and potential for inspiring attacks in coalition countries, with historical precedent from Al-Qaeda's 2002 embassy bombing plot.
Singapore is taking proactive measures, including monitoring foreign fighter movements, implementing UN-mandated laws against joining extremist groups, and using the Internal Security Act where necessary, while also engaging communities to prevent radicalization and maintain social cohesion.
Ang Wei Neng and Low Thia Khiang inquired about Singaporeans fighting for ISIS and potential ASEAN involvement in military actions; Teo confirmed two Singapore citizens are in Syria and declined to comment on specific military cooperation.
Zaqy Mohamad asked about threats to social fabric from associating radicalism with Muslims; Teo emphasized ongoing community efforts, including collaborations with Muslim leaders, to counter ISIS ideology and prevent backlash.

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7 Oct 2014

Unauthorised Entry of People and Goods into Singapore

The Deputy Prime Minister outlined Singapore’s multi-layered maritime security regime involving the Republic of Singapore Navy, Maritime and Port Authority, Police Coast Guard, and Immigration and Checkpoints Authority to monitor and intercept unauthorized vessels.
Physical barriers and surveillance technologies have been deployed along 63 km of coastline, with plans to expand to cover 143 km of the 197 km coastline to deter illegal landings and channel traffic.
Between 2011 and 2013, authorities seized 46 vessels and arrested 144 persons for illegal maritime entry, with 49 arrests in 2014 alone and nearly 2,900 vessels stopped from entering territorial waters.
The government emphasized ongoing reviews of security processes, collaboration with private partners such as marina owners, and community vigilance to report suspicious activities.
The response followed an August 2014 incident where three foreigners illegally entered via Raffles Marina outside operational hours, highlighting vulnerabilities in off-hours maritime border control.

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9 Sep 2014

Singapore's Position on Kidnapping of 200 Girls by Rebels in Nigeria

Singapore established diplomatic ties with Nigeria in April 1970 and maintains good bilateral relations, including recent meetings with Nigerian officials.
Singapore strongly condemns the kidnapping of over 200 girls by Boko Haram and sympathizes with the victims and their families, but has not been approached by Nigeria for assistance.
The government believes it should respect Nigeria's sovereignty and not proactively offer help, as it lacks the specialized capabilities of other nations that have provided support.

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8 Sep 2014

Singaporeans in Ebola-hit Countries

Dr Janil Puthucheary inquired about the number of Singaporeans in Ebola-affected countries and the support for their potential evacuation.
The Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs confirmed there are 12 Singaporeans in Nigeria and one in Liberia, all registered with MFA, which is in regular contact and advising them to consider returning.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a travel notice advising against non-essential travel to affected areas, while the Ministry of Health issued a health advisory following WHO's declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
In case of an Ebola symptom or confirmed case, MFA will work with local authorities, employers, and MOH to facilitate medical evacuation, provided the individual is certified fit for travel.
Singapore's overseas missions remain in close contact with local authorities and are ready to provide consular assistance to Singaporeans if needed.

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5 Aug 2014

Former Permanent Residents who Did Not Serve National Service

Assoc Prof Tan Kheng Boon Eugene questioned the number of former PRs who did not serve National Service but are currently in Singapore, the justification for allowing them to stay or gain citizenship, and how many family members' Re-entry Permit renewals have been negatively affected.
Minister Ng Eng Hen stated that PRs who fail to register or enlist for NS are NS defaulters under the Enlistment Act, facing fines or imprisonment, and no such persons have been granted PR reinstatement or citizenship.
The policy has been tightened so that no NS-liable PRs who renounced status in the last decade have been approved for work or study in Singapore.
Applications for Re-entry Permit renewals by immediate family members of ex-PRs who did not serve NS may be adversely affected, including possible curtailment of the permit.

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5 Aug 2014

Preparations for Singapore to Respond to Provisions in Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement Related to Public Health and Environment

Gerald Giam questioned how Singapore can legislate on public health and environment under the TPP's Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) provisions, and asked about past ISDS cases against Singapore.
Lim Hng Kiang explained that the TPP ensures a stable investment regime for both foreign and Singaporean investors, with safeguards against frivolous ISDS suits.
He stated that the TPP does not restrict Singapore from adopting measures for legitimate public policy reasons, including protecting public health and the environment.
He confirmed that no multinational company has challenged or threatened to challenge Singapore through ISDS to date.
The response emphasized that Singapore can implement public interest legislation while maintaining commitments under the TPP.

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5 Aug 2014

Transboundary Haze Pollution Bill

The Transboundary Haze Pollution Bill aims to hold companies accountable for transboundary haze pollution in Singapore by imposing fines up to $2 million for industrial-scale land-clearing fires, with extra-territorial application to target entities with a Singapore presence.
Debaters expressed concerns about implementation challenges, such as collecting evidence from abroad, potential legal overreach, the complexity of land ownership in Indonesia, and ensuring that penalties sufficiently deter large agribusinesses.
The bill is seen as a step toward stricter regional enforcement, but it is not a standalone solution; effective action requires continued diplomatic cooperation with Indonesia and ASEAN, alongside efforts to improve transparency, monitoring, and sustainable practices.

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5 Aug 2014

Singapore's Position on Ongoing Conflict in Gaza

Singapore has consistently called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza, urging both Israel and Hamas to cease violence and work towards a lasting ceasefire, while emphasizing the protection of innocent civilians and the provision of humanitarian aid.
The government supports a two-state solution based on UN Security Council Resolution 242 and has publicly backed Palestinian aspirations, including through financial and technical assistance to the Palestinian National Authority, while also acknowledging Israel's right to self-defense but criticizing its disproportionate response.
Singapore has issued multiple statements condemning violence on both sides, joined international efforts like UN calls for ceasefires, and facilitated humanitarian donations, but acknowledges limits to its influence and stresses that political will from the parties involved is crucial for peace.
Concerns about domestic divisiveness and potential self-radicalization due to the conflict are noted, with the government highlighting its balanced, principled stance and engagement with both Israeli and Palestinian authorities to manage regional and security implications.

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4 Aug 2014

Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) Failure Rate of NSmen

Pritam Singh requested annual IPPT failure rates for NSmen across age groups 20s to 50s, along with the highest-failure stations per age group in ascending order.
The Minister declined to release specific data, stating that militaries generally keep fitness test results confidential and instead benchmark effectiveness through operations and exercises.
The Minister highlighted the SAF’s professional recognition during operations and exercises in Afghanistan, the Gulf of Aden, and disaster relief missions as evidence of readiness.

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4 Aug 2014

Nominal Rental for Sublet of Land to MINDEF's Contractor

Mr Png Eng Huat questioned the Ministry for Defence regarding a land sublet at below market value, asking about the duration of nominal rental and whether there was any attempt to clawback rental from the privatised company.
The Minister for Defence, Ng Eng Hen, explained that the company was government-owned until 2000 and did not pay rent as it supported MINDEF and the SAF; after privatisation, it continued to primarily serve MINDEF, making exact savings from nominal rent difficult to compute.
MINDEF regularised the rent based on market value for the commercial portion of the land, coordinating with PUB to update lease details, and apologised for the lapse in settling the process expeditiously.
The main licence agreement with PUB was finalised in June 2014, leading to the land being leased at market value, and MINDEF is reviewing other sub-lease contracts to ensure good governance compliance.

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