Digital & technology

Chua Kheng Wee Louis proposed the creation of an "Algorithm Committee" to oversee allocation mechanisms in e-commerce and ride-hailing platforms, ensuring fairness and transparency for suppliers and consumers. Gan Kim Yong responded that the government already has measures in place to promote responsible AI use and protect consumers from discrimination through the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCCS). CCCS offers guidance on algorithm best practices and encourages consumer vigilance against exploitative practices. The government supports an open ride-hailing market and aims to balance the needs of platform workers, businesses, and consumers with established principles for fair earnings. The government will continue to monitor AI developments and consider forming an Algorithm Committee if new risks are identified.

Rachel Ong queried the National Development Minister about updates on using location-based SMS notifications for missing persons alerts via the OneService app and suggested directing SMS recipients to view more details. Chee Hong Tat responded that the Municipal Services Office currently supports Dementia Singapore by broadcasting missing persons reports through push notifications on the OS App, which link to in-app details. The Ministry assessed that notifications via SMS would not be pursued, as the necessary information can be effectively provided through the OS App.

Low Wu Yang Andre raised concerns about the adequacy of the Employment Act, Personal Data Protection Act, and Workplace Fairness Act in addressing employer tracking of employees on medical leave. Tan See Leng responded that the Ministry aims to safeguard employment standards while encouraging progressive workplace practices, stating that employers should not collect personal data to deter sick leave. The Employment Act mandates that employees are entitled to paid sick leave, but employers can investigate suspected misconduct. Employees are advised to address concerns through company grievance channels or seek assistance from unions or the Tripartite Alliance for Fair & Progressive Employment Practices.

Patrick Tay Teck Guan asked if the Ministry of Education has plans to ensure that students and educators acquire foundational literacy and skills in generative AI, including identifying misleading information known as "Gen AI hallucinations." Desmond Lee responded that the Ministry develops AI literacy through various means, including integrating digital competencies and critical thinking about AI's biases into the curriculum and enrichment programs. Teachers receive guidance on ethical and pedagogical aspects of AI to understand its risks and limitations. The Ministry will continue to monitor developments in generative AI and evaluate how to measure AI literacy as it evolves.

Mariam Jaafar asked about the status of Singpass accounts among seniors aged 65 and above, specifically regarding those without accounts and those who have not used their accounts in the past year. Josephine Teo reported that as of September 2025, about 8% of seniors do not have a Singpass account, a decrease from 11% in 2020, and around 9% of seniors with accounts have not logged in in the past year. Seniors actively use e-Government services, especially in finance, healthcare, and retirement, with significant access to services like RedeemSG and CPF digital services. The Government is committed to a digital-first approach while ensuring support and non-digital options remain available for seniors who may struggle with digital transactions.

Fadli Fawzi raised questions regarding the Ministry of Education's guidelines on grading assignments that involve the use of generative artificial intelligence. Desmond Lee indicated that the inquiry had been addressed in a written response on 24 September 2025, and members were directed to refer to that response for detailed information about the guidelines provided.

The proposal aims to amend the Electronic Transactions Act 2010, Singapore Land Authority Act 2001, and Housing and Development Act 1959 to facilitate electronic conveyancing transactions. It also includes amendments to the Mental Capacity Act 2008 and the Mental Capacity (Amendment) Act 2021 regarding remote witnessing for electronic instruments that confer lasting powers of attorney. Additionally, changes to the Housing and Development Act 1959 will address the Housing and Development Board's common seal. The Senior Minister of State for Law presented the proposal, and it will be discussed in the next Parliament Sitting.

David Hoe asked about implementing multi-language support for the ScamShield helpline, including multilingual outreach materials and timelines for rollout. The Minister of State for Home Affairs, Goh Pei Ming, responded that the helpline will allow navigation in all four official languages by 2026, while currently operators can assist in preferred languages when available. Multilingual education materials on scams are being distributed, and seniors have resources like the website and app to help with scam inquiries. Hoe suggested a "senior mode" for slower speech, which Goh acknowledged as a consideration for improvement.

Yeo Wan Ling raised concerns about the prioritization of Punggol residents' safety, affordability of autonomous vehicle (AV) rides, and the involvement of transport workers as AV trials are scheduled for late 2025. Edward Chia Bing Hui questioned the key performance indicators for AV success, safety benchmarks, legal liabilities, system-wide benefits, and the impact on driving-related jobs. Sun Xueling responded that AVs will enhance public transport connectivity, create new jobs, and have stringent safety assessments, including real-time monitoring during pilot phases. The government plans to roll out training programs for current transport workers to transition into AV-related roles. Phased AV trials will allow for community engagement and data collection to ensure safety and public acceptance.

Rachel Ong asked about the Ministry of Health's involvement with Dementia Singapore in developing the CARA mobile application and whether it supports reporting missing persons for caregivers of children with autism or special needs. Ong Ye Kung confirmed that the CARA app, co-developed with various agencies, allows caregivers of individuals with dementia to report missing loved ones. Caregivers of children with autism or special needs can obtain a Developmental Disability Registry Identity Card, which includes their contact details and requires a police report if a person goes missing. The CARA app and DDR card are tailored for their specific target groups' needs.