Digital & technology — Topics

10 Jan 2022

Necessity of TraceTogther SafeEntry Requirement Given New Protocols for COVID-19-positive Patients

Lim Biow Chuan questioned whether TraceTogether and SafeEntry requirements remain necessary given new COVID-19 protocols for positive patients.
Ong Ye Kung stated that MOH regularly reviews such rules to keep them simple and promote normalcy, but they are still needed to protect unvaccinated individuals and enforce vaccination-differentiated measures.
He emphasized that TraceTogether and SafeEntry are efficient for verification, contact tracing, and identifying infection clusters, supporting ongoing public health responses.
The minister confirmed that both systems will be retained for now as part of the current strategy.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

10 Jan 2022

Update on AI-backed Smart Traffic Light Control System for Public Roads

Murali Pillai requested an update from the Minister for Transport on the LTA’s CRUISE project, which aims to develop a next‑generation AI‑powered smart traffic light control system for real‑time traffic management.
Minister S Iswaran explained that the current adaptive system adjusts light timings based on traffic flow, and that the CRUISE project with A*STAR’s I2R is trialing AI and multi‑sensor data integration across junctions to improve road network efficiency.
The project completed laboratory simulations and controlled testing in 2020, with field trials now ongoing along Corporation Road and Boon Lay Way after being delayed to May 2021 due to COVID‑19.
The project remains in early R&D, requiring further algorithm refinement, additional controlled testing, and rigorous safety and performance checks before any large‑scale implementation can be considered.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

10 Jan 2022

Cases of Unauthorised Sale of Personal Data Investigated by Personal Data Protection Commission in Past Five Years

Over the past five years, the Personal Data Protection Commission investigated three cases of alleged unauthorised sale of personal data.
Two cases were found in breach of the Personal Data Protection Act for failing to notify and obtain consent before selling data for telemarketing, resulting in fines of $48,000 and $6,000 respectively.
A third case was investigated but no breach was found, though the company was advised on improving data practices and privacy communication.
The PDPC takes a firm stance against unauthorised sales to protect against identity theft and unsolicited calls.
Organisations buying contact lists must ensure the sale is authorised and the data is accurate and updated.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

10 Jan 2022

Supporting Mental Well-being of Healthcare Professionals amidst COVID-19 Pandemic

Wan Rizal and Tin Pei Ling asked about the number of healthcare workers using mental health support services and what more can be done to encourage seeking help, with a focus on preventing depression and self-harm.
Shahira Abdullah inquired about specific policies and programmes to reduce burnout and improve mental health among public healthcare workers during the prolonged pandemic.
Ong Ye Kung reported increased use of counselling, helplines, and peer support services from 2019 to 2021, indicating growing awareness and need for mental well-being support.
Healthcare clusters have expanded support measures, including well-being offices, staff committees, mandatory mental wellness training, and technology tools like AI chatbots and online self-assessment.
The Ministry of Health will continue collaborating with public healthcare institutions to promote mental health initiatives and encourage help-seeking behaviours among staff.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Nov 2021

Breakdown of Number of Declarations, Directives, Orders and Notices Issued under Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act to-date by Ministries

The Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act has been invoked in 32 instances since its enactment, with more than half related to COVID-19 falsehoods.
A breakdown shows all directions issued were for corrections, not takedowns, and were distributed across various ministries.
Four Facebook pages were declared online locations and faced access disabling orders, while one website received an access blocking order for non-compliance.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Nov 2021

Usage of Data Captured from Deployment of Surveillance Technologies for Crime Prevention and Addressing Concerns of Those Who Feel Their Privacy Is Invaded

Mr Yip Hon Weng questioned how captured surveillance data will be used, protected from theft or misuse, whether there are areas where surveillance will not be deployed, and how privacy concerns will be addressed.
Minister K Shanmugam explained that police cameras are deployed in public spaces to deter and solve crimes, with surveys indicating public support for increased safety.
He noted that surveillance is limited to public areas to respect private spaces, and strict data protection controls ensure only authorized personnel can access footage.
The Minister emphasized that unauthorized access to surveillance data will be severely dealt with to prevent misuse or theft.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Nov 2021

Safeguards to Prevent Serious Assault Case Involving Inmates at Changi Prison Complex

The Minister for Home Affairs, K Shanmugam, detailed that the recent assault at Changi Prison Complex involved two inmates attacking another in the medical centre, with officers responding within 20 seconds to stop it, leading to charges and sentencing.
The Singapore Prison Service employs measures such as actively monitoring for conflicts, offering programs to address violent behavior in high-risk inmates, and encouraging inmates to report safety concerns.
Technology is being expanded, including more surveillance cameras and video analytics to detect abnormal or aggressive behavior, enabling quicker officer alerts and responses to incidents like fights or emergencies.
SPS emphasizes taking assault cases seriously, with ongoing reviews to enhance operational capabilities to deter violence and improve rapid detection and response.
The response aligns with the query about additional safeguards, including advancing the "Prisons without Guards" concept through technology, while maintaining current human-led intervention protocols.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Nov 2021

Scams Resulting from Integration of Cross-border E-payment Services

Minister K Shanmugam reported that since the April 2021 integration of Singapore's PayNow and Thailand's PromptPay, no scams have been recorded in Singapore using this system, but at least one overseas e-commerce scam case involving the linkage was identified.
The same safeguards for domestic PayNow transfers apply to cross-border transfers, including the use of online banking credentials, customizable daily transfer limits, and a system-imposed S$1,000 daily cap.
Users can verify the recipient's identity using their mobile number before transferring, and are urged to practice skepticism, use available safeguards, and confirm transactions to avoid scams.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Nov 2021

Impact of Artificial Intelligence Marking for English Subject Assignments on Students' Creativity and Writing Ability

Dr Tan Wu Meng raised concerns about the AI marking system for English assignments possibly undermining students’ creativity, cadence, personality, and flair.
The Minister of State for Education clarified that the AI system is designed to complement teachers, not replace them, by providing automated feedback on basics like spelling and grammar.
The AI tool aims to free up teachers’ time to focus on higher-order skills such as creative expression, persuasiveness, and tone.
Immediate AI feedback is intended to encourage students to write more frequently and self-direct their learning, strengthening foundational writing skills.
The overall approach is to use AI as an additional tool to support teachers in developing students’ writing abilities while preserving creative development.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Nov 2021

Students' Low-cost Access to High-speed Internet Outside of School

The Ministry is committed to providing affordable digital access to students, with programs like NEU PC Plus and Home Access subsidizing devices and broadband for low-income households, benefiting over 20,000 such households from 2020 to 2021.
During home-based learning, schools loaned devices to students without Internet access, and free Wireless@SG is available at public spaces, while broadband speeds under subsidized programs were increased to 500Mbps in 2020 to support typical family activities.
The Ministry will continue reviewing initiatives to ensure affordable high-speed Internet access for students outside school, with eligibility criteria allowing reapplication for Home Access and NEU PC Plus programs without a limit on the number of times.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

2 Nov 2021

Initiatives to Develop Artificial Intelligence Ecosystem and Its Deployment in Singapore

The National AI Strategy targets Singapore to be an AI leader by 2030, focusing on five key projects in logistics, smart estates, education, healthcare, and border security to boost productivity and public services.
Initiatives like the Open Innovation Platform and SMEs Go Digital programme help businesses adopt AI solutions, while over $500 million has been invested in AI R&D over five years to build local capabilities.
Programs such as AI Singapore’s “100 Experiments” and PhD Fellowship, along with TechSkills Accelerator, support talent development and real-world AI deployment, aiming to place 15,500 Singaporeans in tech roles by 2026.
The government promotes responsible AI use through the Model AI Governance Framework and is developing testing frameworks for transparency, while engaging internationally to set best practices.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

2 Nov 2021

Encouraging Elderly with Minimal Underlying Medical Conditions to be Involved in Social Activities and Community

Christopher de Souza asked the Minister for Health how to safely encourage elderly people with minimal underlying medical conditions to leave the house more often for social activities and community involvement, especially given the impact of the COVID-19 endemic on their mental health.
Ong Ye Kung responded that seniors are currently advised to stay home as much as possible except for essential activities due to high community COVID-19 cases, but the government recognizes the negative impact of reduced social interactions and is working to augment centre-based services, pilot resumed activities for vaccinated seniors, and provide digital offerings to keep them engaged from home.
Efforts include training seniors in digital skills through the SG Digital Office, reaching out to vulnerable seniors via tele-engagements by the Silver Generation Office, and emphasizing that family support remains a key pillar alongside government and community efforts in caring for seniors during the pandemic.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

2 Nov 2021

Increasing Deterrent Measures to Penalise Those who have Taken Part in Perpetration of Phone Scams

Minister Shanmugam stated that existing cheating-related offences under the Penal Code already carry imprisonment terms of up to 10 years, and the penalties are currently deemed adequate for tackling scam perpetration.
The government is addressing the challenge of overseas-based scammers through a multi-pronged approach led by the Inter-Ministry Committee on Scams, which includes strengthened enforcement and collaboration with foreign law enforcement agencies.
Initiatives such as the ScamShield app, which blocks scam messages and calls, and regulatory measures by IMDA to block spoofed international calls are key components of the strategy.
Public education and awareness campaigns are being intensified to help citizens discern and avoid scams, recognizing that an informed public is a critical line of defence.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

1 Nov 2021

Training Programmes to Educate Migrant Domestic Workers from Falling Prey to Cyber Scams

Christopher de Souza asked if more training could be provided to migrant domestic workers (MDWs) to prevent them from falling victim to cyber scams.
Tan See Leng outlined existing measures, including the Settling-In-Programme (SIP) where MDWs learn about scam prevention, and regular dissemination of scam alerts and infographics in their native languages.
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) collaborates with NGOs and embassies to share anti-scam advisories and conduct talks tailored to the MDW community.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will continue working with SPF, NGOs, and other partners to educate MDWs on scam prevention.
Efforts include advising MDWs not to share personal or bank details and to seek help from authorities or employers when needed.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

1 Nov 2021

Ongoing Efforts on Engaging Elderly and Youths to Mitigate Stress and Loneliness from COVID-19 Safety Measures

The government is engaging youths through digital platforms like Youthopia, partnering with organisations to provide mental well-being resources, dialogues, and online community events to maintain social connections.
For seniors, activities have been pivoted online, befriending services conduct home visits and calls, and volunteer centres run community programmes to reduce isolation while supporting mental wellness.
MOE is keeping schools open, resuming co-curricular activities when safe, and integrating mental health education and teacher check-ins to support students’ well-being.
The Interagency Taskforce on Mental Health and Well-being is developing a national strategy to strengthen support for youths and seniors beyond COVID-19, while encouraging community-wide efforts through volunteerism and kindness.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

1 Nov 2021

Plans to Increase Transparency and Accountability of Companies Providing and Purchasing Surveillance Advertising

The Government supports legitimate online commercial activities using personal data but requires organizations to ensure accountability and transparency by notifying individuals clearly and obtaining their consent, which cannot be misleading or excessive.
The Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) has issued advisory guidelines mandating data protection measures, including consent for using cookies to target ads, and is monitoring international trends and privacy-preserving technologies.
The PDPC plans to introduce additional measures to strengthen organizational accountability and ensure clear communication of consent terms as needed.
Consumers are encouraged to review consent requests carefully and withhold consent if they find the requests excessive or suspect the organization's legitimacy.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

1 Nov 2021

Assisting Lower-income Groups to Remain Connected through Reliable and Affordable Telecommunications Plans

The Ministry of Communications and Information, through IMDA’s schemes like Home Access, NEU PC Plus, and Mobile Access for Seniors, provides subsidised internet connectivity and digital devices to lower-income groups, keeping out-of-pocket costs affordable, such as fibre broadband from $6/month and mobile plans from $5/month.
Eligible ComCare beneficiaries receive comprehensive support including telecommunications items, with seamless access to IMDA’s Home Access scheme if they lack existing broadband plans; devices come with pre-installed security, warranty coverage, and are sufficient for daily productivity and leisure needs.
The Government regularly reviews these schemes to align with market offerings and digital needs, while emphasising user responsibility for cyber hygiene, such as updating software and avoiding suspicious content, complemented by public education efforts from the Cyber Security Agency to enhance digital safety skills.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

1 Nov 2021

Preventive Actions against Chat Groups Spreading Anti-Vaccination Misinformation on Medicines Like Ivermectin

Dr Shahira Abdullah questioned if the Health Ministry would enforce actions against chat groups spreading anti-vaccination misinformation about medicines such as Ivermectin.
Minister Ong Ye Kung referenced a prior reply on steps to curb misinformation via social media and closed messaging systems about COVID-19 treatments, indicating existing measures address the issue.
The debate highlights concerns about enforcement against misinformation in private chat groups and relies on previously documented government strategies to mitigate such spread.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

1 Nov 2021

Managing Confidentiality of COVID-19 Patients' Identifying Particulars

Sylvia Lim inquired whether COVID-19 patients’ identifying particulars are confidential under the Infectious Diseases Act or other laws and how such confidentiality is managed.
Ong Ye Kung stated that patients’ personal data is treated as sensitive and protected under the Public Sector (Governance) Act, the Infectious Diseases Act, and the Personal Data Protection Act, with disclosure allowed only on limited grounds such as preventing disease spread.
Non-government entities receiving such data must comply with the Infectious Diseases Act, PDPA, and government contract safeguards, while anonymised data may be disclosed without breaching confidentiality.
Legal safeguards across the PSGA, IDA, and PDPA make it an offence to re-identify anonymised information, adding a further layer of protection for patient confidentiality.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

1 Nov 2021

Resources to Guide Teachers in Changing Teaching Methods and Provide Support to Teach-from-home

Christopher de Souza inquired about Ministry of Education (MOE) schemes to support teachers in adapting to rapid changes in teaching methods and regulations during COVID-19, including for those struggling with teach-from-home and online student engagement.
Chan Chun Sing highlighted MOE's use of the Singapore Student Learning Space (SLS) platform to provide resources and guide teachers in applying pedagogies for technology-enabled lessons in class and online.
MOE offers professional development programmes, including bite-sized modules and workshops, to enhance teachers' capacity to use tools effectively and link classroom teaching with home-based learning.
Teachers build capabilities through collaborative teams in schools and cross-school learning communities like the Singapore Learning Designers Circle, where they share ideas and best practices for online lessons.
MOE guides teachers to balance online teaching with non-technological methods such as textbooks and hands-on activities, and will continue supporting teachers to ensure effective student learning amid ongoing changes.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source