Public safety & law — Topics

5 Jan 2021

Clarification by Minister for Foreign Affairs

The Minister for Foreign Affairs clarified that TraceTogether’s primary purpose is COVID-19 contact tracing, emphasizing its high participation rate and privacy protections, including Bluetooth-only data collection, 25-day auto-purge, and no GPS tracking.
He acknowledged that under the Criminal Procedure Code, police can access TraceTogether data for serious criminal investigations, though this power must be exercised judiciously, and committed to transparency and maintaining public trust.
Ministers responded to questions about data deletion post-pandemic, potential impact on adoption, and specific assurances that most Singaporeans would not be affected, reiterating the balance between public health and privacy.

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5 Jan 2021

Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Bill

The Bill consolidates and updates Singapore's laws on guns, explosives, and weapons to address new threats like 3D-printed firearms and drones, with speakers generally supporting its zero-tolerance approach to public safety.
Concerns were raised about regulating 3D printing technology, with some members urging caution to avoid stifling innovation while others emphasized the need to criminalize unauthorized digital blueprints for guns to prevent misuse.
The Bill introduces class licensing for lower-risk activities and compliance officers, with questions on enforcement, security clearances, and safeguards to ensure high standards and accountability.

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5 Jan 2021

Support for Family Members of Prison Inmates

The Yellow Ribbon Community Project provides grassroots volunteers to visit families of inmates, distribute grocery and school vouchers, and facilitate letter exchanges to maintain family ties, reaching over 15,000 families by 2020.
The Singapore Prison Service collaborates with community partners and Family Resource Centres to offer support during incarceration, including referrals to Family Service Centres for complex needs and programmes for family bonding.
Offenders are encouraged to share family concerns with SPS officers, who can refer them to services like the Singapore Aftercare Association and Yellow Ribbon Fund for assistance with family-related issues.
During the tail end of incarceration, offenders are assigned aftercare case managers to link them and their families with reintegration support, such as financial aid and education support, upon release.
The debate highlights the comprehensive network of community and prison service programmes designed to assist families of inmates both during imprisonment and after release.

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4 Jan 2021

New Public Education Efforts for Pedestrians, Cyclists and PMD Riders on Safe Riding/Use of Footpaths, Cycling Paths or Park Connectors and Their Effectiveness

The Ministry of Transport outlined new public education campaigns for pedestrians, cyclists, and PMD riders on safe use of footpaths, cycling paths, and park connectors over the past year.
These efforts complement existing programs like the Safe Riding Programme, which has engaged over 82,000 participants since 2018, and include community and school engagements.
The initiatives are supported by Active Mobility volunteers and have contributed to a near 50% reduction in public path accidents between pedestrians and active mobility users.
The government plans to continue these education efforts to further promote safety and responsible use of shared paths.

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4 Jan 2021

Victim Impact Statement Adduced by Prosecution to Address Sentencing Court in Sexual Offences Cases in Past Five Years and Plans to Review Criminal Sentencing for Sexual Offences

The Minister provided data showing that victim impact statements were tendered in 28 State Court cases (2017-2019) and 23 High Court cases (2015-2019) involving sexual offences.
He explained that the harm caused to victims is always considered in sentencing, with courts noting the immeasurable harm from sexual offences and using sentencing frameworks that weigh harm heavily.
The Minister emphasized that victim impact statements are not the only way courts learn of harm, as victim testimonies, witness accounts, and medical reports also inform sentencing.
He confirmed that the Ministry of Law and Ministry of Home Affairs are reviewing penalties for sexual offences, with outcomes to be announced later.

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4 Jan 2021

Investigations into Deaths Due to Unnatural or Unknown Causes in Last Two years

In 2019 and 2020, there were 1,961 reported unnatural death investigations, with a Coroner’s Inquiry not held in 1,413 (72%) cases, as allowed under the Coroners Act when death is natural or not in the public interest.
The Coroners Act sets factors for deciding not to hold an inquiry, including whether the death involved others, potential to prevent similar deaths, family wishes, overseas occurrences, foreign investigations, and other matters the Coroner deems fit.
The Public Prosecutor can require an inquiry if deemed necessary, but did not do so in any case where the Coroner had decided not to hold one in 2019 and 2020.

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4 Jan 2021

Sexual Assault Cases Handled by OneSafe Centre in Last Three Years and Plans to Review Requirement and Timeframe for Forensic and Medical Examinations

Ms Raeesah Khan asked about the annual number of sexual assault cases handled by the OneSafe Centre as a percentage of total police cases and whether the 72-hour timeframe for forensic exams will be reviewed.
She also questioned the requirement for parental consent for victims under 21 and suggested lowering the age to 16 or allowing third-party signatures to encourage reporting.
Minister K Shanmugam responded that forensic exams are for serious crimes like rape and are most effective within 72 hours, as per WHO guidelines, with 70 exams conducted at OneSafe from 2017–2019.
He explained that parental consent is required for minors due to common law, but the ministry is reviewing the minimum age for consent among other issues.

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4 Jan 2021

Consideration for More Structured Channels to Place Youth Offenders in Positive Networks as Part of Aftercare and Steps to Guide Parents to Support Children Upon Release from Prison

The Ministry for Home Affairs stated that the Singapore Prison Service already provides structured aftercare programmes like the National Youth Achievement Award, Throughcare Volunteer Framework, and Befriending Programme to connect youth offenders with positive social networks during and after incarceration.
These initiatives involve community partners and volunteers who offer ongoing support, mentorship, and access to positive peer groups to aid reintegration, with programmes continuing even after release.
The Ministry highlighted active family involvement through the Family Programme and reintegration officers who work with youth offenders and their parents to develop reintegration plans and maintain supportive relationships.
Steps are taken to guide parents by equipping them with conflict resolution and emotion regulation skills, and by facilitating their participation in their child’s rehabilitation process both during imprisonment and after release.
The Ministry indicated ongoing efforts to expand these support networks and strengthen collaborations with schools and employers to provide further opportunities for youth offenders.

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4 Jan 2021

Responsibility of Employers of Tipper Truck Drivers Issued Fines for Failure to Ensure Proper Cover while Transporting Earth and Sand

Between January and November 2020, about 27 tipper truck drivers were fined for transporting earth and sand without adequate cover or causing spillage, with enforcement targeting drivers as they are in direct control during trips.
The Ministry explained that while drivers are responsible for checking covers and securing loads, transport companies must ensure their fleets have suitable and functional flap covers and conduct regular inspections.
The Ministry does not plan to implement a uniform flap cover standard, as it may not suit all trucks and would not prevent spillage if misused or unchecked, but it urges companies to remind drivers to perform pre-drive checks and remain vigilant.

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4 Jan 2021

Workplace Fatalities Among Sub-contractors

Melvin Yong inquired about trends in workplace fatalities among sub-contractors and asked for additional measures beyond voluntary safety time-outs to enhance workplace safety.
Josephine Teo confirmed that smaller firms, often sub-contractors, have higher fatal injury rates, though overall construction fatality rates have declined, partly due to COVID-19 impacts.
Efforts include outreach sessions by the WSH Council and industry associations, regular safety time-outs, and plans to publish detailed safety records of construction firms, including sub-contractors, to inform contracting decisions and encourage better safety practices.

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4 Jan 2021

Investigation Process for Complaints Lodged by Prison Inmates on Mistreatment

The Singapore Prison Service (SPS) has established multiple channels for inmates to lodge complaints, including direct reporting to prison officials, through family or MPs, or to the Board of Visiting Justices and Board of Visitors, which conduct unannounced inspections and follow up on feedback.
Investigations into mistreatment complaints, especially those involving prison officers, are conducted by a provost team that gathers statements and evidence, with findings reviewed by SPS senior management; disciplinary actions, including fines or dismissal, are taken if officers are found guilty, and cases with potential criminal offences are referred to law enforcement.
From 2016 to 2020, SPS received an average of 12 mistreatment complaints annually, with two substantiated cases involving unauthorized use of force, resulting in fines for the officers; an Independent Review Panel exists for serious misconduct across Home Team agencies but has not yet been used for SPS cases.

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4 Jan 2021

Research on Local Youths' Perception on Recreational Drugs

Public surveys indicate that the majority of youths in Singapore recognize the harms of drugs and support strict penalties, though their backing for tough measures is slightly lower than that of older residents.
There are concerns that youths are increasingly exposed to liberal drug policies from other countries through the internet and social media, which may influence their views.
The Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) has implemented various preventive drug education programs in schools, including augmented reality exhibitions, after-school engagement activities, and campaigns targeting national servicemen.
CNB has launched digital initiatives like the "Mythbusters" series and collaborated on an interactive film to debunk drug misconceptions and engage youths through social media and discussions.
CNB works with influencers, community partners, and youth advocates to reinforce anti-drug messages and strengthen outreach efforts.

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4 Jan 2021

Cybersecurity for Citizens as More Apps are Launched

The Government applies secure coding standards, cybersecurity processes, and penetration testing to its apps, with high-traffic apps included in a bug bounty programme to identify and fix vulnerabilities.
Private sector apps in critical infrastructure sectors must follow cybersecurity guidelines, and all organisations are required to comply with data protection laws like the PDPA and PSGA, which include penalties for mishandling personal data.
The Personal Data Protection Commission provides resources and training to help organisations build data protection into apps, while individuals are advised to download apps only from official stores and review permissions.
The Government is studying options to protect the right to receive non-app communications and ensure fairness for non-app users, with plans to update regulations in partnership with the private and people sectors.

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4 Jan 2021

Proposal for Rule Where Cyclists Have to Dismount when Using Zebra Crossings

Joan Pereira proposed making it mandatory for cyclists to dismount at zebra crossings for safety, prompting the Minister for Transport to respond.
The government already requires active mobility device users to slow down, stop, and look at crossings, a rule established in 2019 based on broad public consensus.
Requiring cyclists to dismount was considered but not adopted due to concerns about safety for those carrying passengers or loads and inconvenience for elderly users.
All road and path users are reminded to stop and stay alert at crossings, with LTA and Traffic Police continuing public education and safe riding programs.
The debate highlights the balance between safety measures and practicality for different road users in Singapore’s shared spaces.

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4 Jan 2021

QR Code Scams in Last Three Years

The Ministry of Home Affairs reported that in the past three years, there have been approximately 210 cases in Singapore where QR codes were used as a medium for scams, such as in internet love scams and impersonation scams, but no reported cases of deceptive QR codes leading to malicious websites or malware downloads.
Authorities are collaborating with banks to enhance safeguards for QR code e-payments, such as requiring users to activate their payment apps and verify payee details before transactions, while also exploring additional measures to combat such scams.
The Ministry, through the National Crime Prevention Council and police, is running public education campaigns like "Spot the Signs. Stop the Crimes." and engaging grassroots efforts to raise awareness, particularly among seniors, via WhatsApp broadcasts, community events, and social media.

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4 Jan 2021

Awareness amongst Elderly on Risks and Scams on Internet

The Ministry, through the SG Digital Office (SDO) and agencies like the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) and Singapore Police Force (SPF), educates seniors on cyber risks and safe practices, such as safeguarding one-time passwords and using strong passwords, and collaborates with partners to update advisory topics as the digital landscape evolves.
Public education campaigns, including the NCPC's "Spot the Signs. Stop the Crimes." initiative and joint webinars, use real-life examples and community outreach via Residents’ Committees and grassroots volunteers to alert seniors to scams on platforms like WhatsApp.
To support seniors who struggle with digital skills, the government provides physical support through 55 SG Digital community hubs, Tech Connect initiatives at community centres, and Integrated Public Service Centres, alongside multilingual government communications and digital display panels in HDB estates to ensure inclusivity.

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4 Jan 2021

Fraudulent Payments to Hawkers via Cashless Payment Modes

Alex Yam inquired about the number of hawkers affected by fraudulent cashless payments, how victims can seek recourse without knowing the scammer's identity, and whether hawker training on scams will be reviewed.
The minister responded that no formal reports of fraudulent e-payments have been received by police, though news reports mention scams like fake screenshots or cancelled transactions, and authorities are monitoring the situation closely.
The government is strengthening e-payment security, educating hawkers via the NETS BizApp and Digital Ambassadors, and emphasizing that both hawkers and customers must remain vigilant and report scams promptly.

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4 Jan 2021

Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Bill

The Bill replaces and consolidates multiple existing laws to regulate guns, explosives, and weapons (GEW) more coherently, raising maximum fines and creating new offences for high-risk items and unauthorised 3D-printed gun blueprints.
It introduces a class licensing system for low-risk users, expands regulation to cover more weapons and gun accessories, and grants authorities greater flexibility to impose licensing conditions and security directions.
The Bill aligns penalties with offence severity, distinguishes regulatory breaches from crimes with criminal intent, and formalises security clearance requirements for licensees and workers handling GEW.

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4 Jan 2021

Legal Provisions and Safeguards in Using TraceTogether Data

Christopher de Souza questioned the Minister for Home Affairs on the use of TraceTogether data for criminal investigations, seeking clarification on the legal provisions and safeguards, to which the Minister of State responded that the Singapore Police Force is empowered under the Criminal Procedure Code to access such data, with strict measures like authorized access and penalties for misuse.
The discussion clarified that TraceTogether data from witnesses in investigations may be extracted, while data from suspects or those under investigation is not, to maintain security; however, the Minister emphasized that data is generally used only for contact tracing and COVID-19 purposes, with exceptions for public safety under the Criminal Procedure Code.
Gerald Giam raised concerns about potential misuse of TraceTogether data for police investigations conflicting with the privacy statement that data is solely for contact tracing, which could lower adoption rates, and the Minister reiterated that while the primary use is for contact tracing, data may be accessed for safety and security reasons as permitted by law.

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4 Nov 2020

Number of Workplace Accidents and Injuries as Workforce Returns to Work Given Easing of COVID-19 Measures

Mr Melvin Yong asked whether workplace accidents and injuries increased as workers returned after COVID-19 measures eased.
The non-fatal injury rate in Q3 2020 was 85 per 100,000 workers, down from 106 in Q3 2019 but up from 55 in Q2 2020, with the rise attributed to reduced activity during the circuit breaker.
Fatal injury rates in Q3 2020 were 0.18 per 100,000 workers, a slight increase from 0.17 in Q3 2019 and 0.14 in Q2 2020.
The Ministry of Manpower emphasized vigilance against both COVID-19 and workplace hazards, aiming for 2020 injury rates to be comparable to or below 2019 levels.
Additional engagement and enforcement efforts were launched, including outreach to over 8,000 companies and 70,000 subscribers with safety reminders and training materials.

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