Digital & technology — Topics

2 Apr 2024

Proposal for Using PayNow as Payment Method for Child Development Account Transactions

Don Wee asked if PayNow can be added alongside NETS for Child Development Account payments to approved institutions.
The Ministry of Social and Family Development said it will review alternative payment modes as part of regular CDA scheme reviews.
Any new mode must be convenient for parents and trustees while ensuring safeguards against unauthorized use.
The Ministry emphasized that CDA funds are strictly for specified expenditures and require proper protection.
The response indicates consideration of PayNow but no commitment to immediate implementation.

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2 Apr 2024

Requirements on Licensed Taxi Rental and Private Hire Companies with Significant Market Share to Provide Call Options for Non-technology Savvy Passengers

Ms Hazel Poa asked the Minister for Transport to consider imposing licensing conditions on taxi and private hire companies with significant market share to offer telephone booking and cash payment options for non-technology-savvy passengers.
ComfortDelGro currently fulfills over 99% of all call-booking trips, which make up about 1% of total point-to-point trips, and will continue to provide this service.
All taxi and ride-hail operators already accept cash payments for both street-hail and ride-hail services.

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2 Apr 2024

Reports of Deepfake-related Scams

The Singapore Police Force has not tracked specific numbers of deepfake-related scam reports in 2023, noting only a low number of allegations received.
Scams involving deepfakes have been reported across various media types, including live video, voice, and uploaded video, though detailed breakdowns are not provided.
The Ministry of Home Affairs is implementing targeted measures for the elderly, including the SG Cyber Safe Seniors Programme, digital ambassador outreach, and updated educational materials in multiple languages to raise awareness and cyber hygiene.
Collaborative efforts with agencies like the People’s Association and grassroots organizations ensure timely alerts and education for the elderly on emerging scam variants, including deepfakes.
The government emphasizes proactive updates to scam awareness programs to address growing threats like deepfake scams, focusing on practical steps for seniors to protect themselves.

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2 Apr 2024

Unveiling of Shared Responsibility Framework for Phishing Scams

The Shared Responsibility Framework (SRF) for phishing scams is expected to be implemented later this year after reviewing public feedback, with the government studying international models to avoid unintended consequences like moral hazard.
The Money Lock feature, which protects a portion of funds from digital scams, has seen significant uptake with over 78,000 accounts and S$6.6 billion locked, with awareness efforts targeting all age groups, especially seniors.
MAS has no plans to mandate Money Lock for all banks, as most retail banks will offer it by mid-2024, while the SRF will consider evolving scam types like deepfakes and incorporate parliamentary suggestions.

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2 Apr 2024

Progress on Areas of Collaboration Identified during Inaugural Meeting of India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable

The Minister provided an update on the five collaboration areas from the 2022 India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable, highlighting the launch of the digital payments linkage between PayNow and UPI in February 2023 and a pilot shipment using the TradeTrust framework to digitalise trade documents.
Ongoing discussions are taking place on other initiatives, such as increasing food trade between India and Singapore, with India's rapid economic growth offering opportunities for Singapore companies.
The business community, including chambers of commerce and trade associations, plays a key role in achieving outcomes, as seen through delegations led by the Singapore Business Federation and Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce to events in India in January 2024.

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2 Apr 2024

Probe into Incident Where Private Military Conference Call at Singapore Hotel was Intercepted

The government emphasized that it does not typically provide secured communications for international events, as foreign participants usually arrange their own encryption and security measures.
The Ministry of Defence implements proactive cybersecurity measures for Singapore-organized sensitive events, including vulnerability assessments, but does not cover foreign militaries' internal meetings.
Officials highlighted that open communication lines used by visitors are not the government's responsibility, and encouraged everyone to practice cyber hygiene, especially when using public Wi-Fi.

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6 Mar 2024

Help for Graduates to Find Employment amidst Tightening Labour Market

The Minister highlighted tripartite initiatives, including curriculum reviews by universities, quality internships via the National Centre of Excellence for Workplace Learning, and career advisory services through Workforce Singapore and NTUC’s e2i to support graduate employment.
NTUC and SNEF have piloted programs like Career Starter Lab and mentorSHIP to provide career trials, attachments, and mentorship, helping graduates clarify job fit and find roles matching their skills and aspirations.
Despite a slight dip in recent graduate employment rates, overall figures remain above pre-COVID levels, with starting salaries also increasing, indicating a generally favorable labor market for graduates.
The Ministry is exploring partnerships with tech companies and startup incubators, guided by programs like T-UP, to create new job opportunities while ensuring clear career paths for graduates.
Technology and data analytics, such as the CareersFinder tool and career health nudges, are being leveraged to improve job matching and support graduates in making informed career decisions.

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6 Mar 2024

State-sponsored Cyber Attacks on Singapore Government Systems

The Ministry confirmed that Singapore has not been listed among the foreign governments affected by recent alleged state-sponsored cyber breaches, and that relevant agencies continuously monitor and respond to threats, though specific operations are not publicly disclosed.
The government employs a multi-layered cybersecurity strategy for public sector systems, including preventive measures like secure internet surfing, proactive security testing, 24/7 monitoring by the Security Operation Centre, and regular cybersecurity training for civil servants.
The authorities are actively assessing the broader cyber attack surface beyond government domains, including critical infrastructure like utilities, and are focused on identifying and mitigating potential convergence points of risk to prevent disproportionate failures.

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5 Mar 2024

Mobile Phone Reception Coverage in Lifts in New HDB Developments to Facilitate Emergency Calls

The Ministry stated that while mobile operators are required to provide over 85% building coverage, there is no specific requirement for mobile reception inside lifts due to the challenge of signal penetration in enclosed metallic structures, and HDB lifts rely on existing safety features like the Tele-Monitoring System and alarm buttons for emergencies.
In response to concerns about lift breakdowns or medical emergencies where the alarm button is unreachable, the Ministry explained that current planning norms do not include mobile coverage in lifts but committed to working with telecom operators to boost weak signal areas, such as in Clementi Peaks.
A member asked if the 85% coverage includes HDB car parks, and the Ministry clarified that coverage requirements exclude transient areas like lifts and in-building car parks below the second basement level, as these are not part of the baseline service standards.

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4 Mar 2024

Risks and Benefits from Widespread Adoption of Facial Recognition Technology and Oversight Mechanisms to Ensure Responsible and Ethical Use

Mrs Josephine Teo highlighted that facial images are considered personal data under the Personal Data Protection Act, which governs the private sector's collection and use of facial recognition technology (FRT) in Singapore, emphasizing compliance and ethical considerations.
She noted that a primary benefit of FRT in Singapore is enhancing security, while also acknowledging potential risks related to privacy and data protection, as outlined in the Guide on the Responsible Use of Biometric Data in Security Applications published in 2022.
Oversight mechanisms include the Model AI Governance Framework by IMDA and PDPC, which provides guidance on ethical deployment of AI technologies like FRT, alongside existing legal frameworks to ensure responsible use.
The government is engaging with the public and stakeholders through published guides and frameworks to foster responsible development and application of AI in FRT, though specific steps for broader engagement were not detailed in the response.

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4 Mar 2024

Development of HDB New Towns with Digitally Ready and 5G-Capable Flats

The debate focused on the technological and infrastructural challenges in developing HDB new towns that are digitally ready to support 5G capabilities, including the need for denser mobile infrastructure due to 5G's shorter propagation characteristics.
It was highlighted that more space within building premises is required for 5G infrastructure, and government agencies are collaborating to coordinate and facilitate timely 5G network rollouts in HDB towns.
The Minister outlined plans for retrofitting HDB flats to support 5G in the future, emphasizing inter-agency coordination between MND/HDB and MCI/IMDA to address infrastructure needs.

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4 Mar 2024

Sufficient Number of Digital Infrastructure Engineers and Designers in Design and Development of Digitally-ready HDB New Towns

HDB has been building its digital capabilities through the Digital Master Plan and the Built Environment Industry Transformation Map, including the use of Virtual Design and Construction and Building Information Modelling for all new BTO projects since 2019.
HDB trains its officers and requires consultants and contractors to deploy digitally competent personnel to implement Integrated Digital Delivery, while piloting new technologies in smart town “Living Labs” like Punggol and Yuhua before wider rollout.
For older flats and estates, HDB selects and rolls out proven digital initiatives, such as Smart LED Lighting under the Green Towns Programme, with installations aligned to Town Council repair cycles and supported by HDB.
HDB has developed a centralised data platform to collect and analyse sensor data from HDB towns, enabling performance monitoring, measurement of sustainability targets, and refinement of future plans.

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1 Mar 2024

Clarification by Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information

Senior Minister of State Tan Kiat How clarified a factual error in his earlier speech about support for enterprises through the Advanced Digital Solutions (ADS) scheme.
He corrected that the ADS scheme brings together the technology ecosystem to curate solutions for key problems identified by sector leads.
He also clarified that two new schemes were launched for enterprises to gain experience using GenAI, not under the ADS as previously stated.
The correction was made in a written statement circulated with the Speaker's leave, following Standing Order No 29(5).
The original speech was given during the Committee of Supply debate for the Ministry of Communications and Information on 1 March 2024.

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1 Mar 2024

Multi-Mode Passive Detection System for Illegal Shipments of Wildlife and Wildlife Products

Louis Ng asked the Minister for National Development for an update on the testing of the Multi-Mode Passive Detection System (MMPDS) and whether the Ministry is exploring other technologies to detect illegal wildlife shipments through ports.
Desmond Lee responded that Singapore uses a whole-of-government approach, with agencies like NParks, Singapore Customs, and ICA collaborating to screen goods and travellers at checkpoints using technologies such as radiographic scanners and hand-held devices.
ICA tested the MMPDS in 2020 but found radiographic scanners more reliable for detecting wildlife products, leading to the deployment of enhanced radiographic scanners with high throughput and sensitivity.
NParks has developed a mobile app with Microsoft and Conservation International to identify illegally traded shark species using AI, and is exploring advanced techniques like electronic smell sensors and DNA sequencing.
The government will continue to explore and leverage new technologies to strengthen enforcement against illegal wildlife trade.

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1 Mar 2024

Committee of Supply – Head Q (Ministry of Communications and Information)

The debate emphasized the strategic importance of investing in AI and digital infrastructure, with updates provided on the National AI Strategy 2.0, plans to triple AI practitioners to 15,000, and a $500 million investment in high-performance computing to support AI innovation.
Ministers addressed measures to enhance cybersecurity and resilience, including proposed amendments to the Cybersecurity Act, a new Digital Infrastructure Act to cover broader security concerns, and support for SMEs through schemes like CISO-as-a-Service and the Digital Enterprise Blueprint.
Discussions highlighted efforts to ensure inclusive digitalization, particularly for seniors and vulnerable groups, through initiatives like Seniors Go Digital, Mobile Access for Vulnerable Seniors, and community hubs, while balancing the need to maintain human touch in public services.
The government defended its funding for SPH Media Trust, noting it supports public service media, digital transformation, and vernacular capabilities, with KPIs tracking reach and engagement, though some targets were not fully met.
Ministers outlined strategies to foster a trusted digital environment, including combating online misinformation and deepfakes, promoting AI governance frameworks, and enhancing citizen participation in digital solution development.

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1 Mar 2024

Use of Different Devices or Cards when Entering and Exiting Buses and MRTs, and Claims for Refunds

The Minister explained that double charges occur when commuters use different devices or cards for entry and exit, which creates separate transactions; while most trips are accurate, refunds are rare, averaging $2.70 per incident.
The Minister noted that automatically preventing exits or reconciling charges is not feasible due to operational delays and system limitations, so commuters must apply for refunds via the SimplyGo app or ticket offices.
Both the Minister and Mr Giam emphasized raising awareness through multilingual educational materials and continued publicity to help commuters avoid using different devices or cards.
The Minister acknowledged Mr Giam's suggestions to improve refund convenience and multilingual outreach, committing to consider these enhancements in the SimplyGo system design.

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29 Feb 2024

Social and Psychological Impact of Metaverse and Virtual Reality Technologies on Human Interaction and Connection

The debate centered on the potential social and psychological impacts of metaverse and virtual reality technologies on human interaction in Singapore, and whether stakeholders like parents and educators are equipped to support young people in these environments.
The Minister acknowledged a lack of definitive research on these impacts but emphasized Singapore's proactive approach through public education initiatives like the National Library Board's Read to be SURE, the Digital for Life Festival, and bite-sized online resources for parents.
Regulatory measures were highlighted, including a Code of Practice for Social Media Services and an upcoming Code of Practice for App Distribution Services to ensure age-appropriate access to these technologies.

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29 Feb 2024

Ensuring High-Quality Mobile Coverage by Telecommunication Companies

Mrs Josephine Teo stated that mobile network operators must achieve at least 99% outdoor coverage, including in tunnels, and 85% indoor building coverage, with regular audits confirming compliance.
The Ministry works with MNOs and HDB to ensure mobile coverage is extended to new HDB towns as quickly as possible after construction is completed.
Singapore is among a few countries with mandatory quality-of-service standards for mobile coverage, which are consistently met by all operators.

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29 Feb 2024

Use of Social Media and Digital Platforms to Communicate Real-time Information to Public During High-density Events and Emergencies

The Ministry of Home Affairs uses digital platforms to share real-time information during events, as outlined in a previous written reply to Parliament on 28 February 2024.
Specific safety measures, such as crowd control protocols, are implemented to prevent incidents like stampedes and overcrowding during festive gatherings.
Emergency services are prepared to respond to incidents during high-density events, with established protocols to ensure rapid and effective coordination.

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29 Feb 2024

Effectiveness and Progress of Roll-out of Money Lock Feature in Protecting Consumers from Scams and Unauthorised Bank Transactions

More than 61,000 Money Lock accounts have been set up since its November launch, safeguarding over $5.4 billion in savings by February 2024.
No reports of phishing or malware scams have involved funds under Money Lock to date, with MAS and banks working to monitor its effectiveness and encourage adoption.
The feature is being expanded to other major retail banks by mid-year, and improvements are being made based on customer feedback, such as allowing funds to be locked within the same account.
The majority of scams involve individuals willingly transferring money due to social engineering, highlighting the need for vigilance beyond technical safeguards.

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