Public safety & law — Topics

9 Nov 2016

Curtailing Increase in Malay Drug Abuser Numbers

The Parliamentary Secretary reported a rise in drug abuser numbers from 2010 to 2015, with Malay and Indian Muslim communities disproportionately affected, and outlined multi-pronged efforts in prevention, enforcement, and rehabilitation.
Specific measures for the Malay community include collaborations with organizations like MENDAKI, AMP, and MUIS to deliver targeted anti-drug education and support services.
The government emphasized a zero-tolerance policy, enhanced enforcement through laws like the Organised Crime Act, and improved rehabilitation programs, while stressing the need for community and individual commitment to combat drug abuse.

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9 Nov 2016

Conditions for Revoking Taxi Driver's Vocational Licence

The Senior Minister of State outlined that a Taxi Driver's Vocational Licence (TDVL) can be revoked for reasons including being disqualified from driving, conviction for serious crimes, accumulating over 20 demerit points, or being medically unfit, with drivers having 14 days to appeal.
Sylvia Lim questioned the due process and direct communication between the driver and LTA before revocation, expressing concern over protection against frivolous complaints and how LTA assesses credibility, citing a case where revocation was based on an outstanding dispute.
The Senior Minister of State responded that LTA considers passenger safety and transparent criteria like demerit points, noting that drivers are typically aware of accumulating points, but acknowledged that specific cases, including the one mentioned, could be reviewed further if appealed to the Minister.

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9 Nov 2016

Readiness of Singapore Telecommunications Companies to Thwart Cyberattacks

The government, through the Cybersecurity Agency of Singapore (CSA) and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), has established frameworks and codes of practice to enhance the cyber resilience of critical infrastructure, including telecommunications companies, though breaches cannot be entirely eliminated.
Measures include the Readiness Maturity Index program, regular exercises, and the Infocommunications Singapore Computer Emergency Response Team (ISG-CERT) to coordinate responses and share actionable intelligence with operators.
To support companies, especially SMEs, CSA will collaborate with trade associations to provide cyber readiness assessments and a starter kit for IT defences, while the government studies potential public exercises to improve consumer cyber hygiene.

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9 Nov 2016

Update on Legal Case for the Late Mr Lee Kuan Yew's Oral History Transcripts

The executors of the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s estate filed a 2015 court application to interpret a 1983 agreement on the custody and use of oral history interview transcripts, with the High Court issuing its judgment in September 2016 and the executors subsequently appealing to the Court of Appeal.
During the parliamentary exchange, the Minister noted the judgment is publicly available but declined to comment further due to the pending appeal, while Ms Sylvia Lim asked about procedural matters such as the case’s duration and the release timing of the judgment.
Ms Lim also inquired about the expunging of evidence on how the transcripts left the Lee family home and the reason they were viewed at the Ministry of Home Affairs, but the Minister responded that he could not provide details as these matters were before the Court.

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8 Nov 2016

Cyclists of Electric/Motorised Bicycles or Vehicles' Liability for Victim's Medical Fees

Er Dr Lee Bee Wah proposed amending the law to require cyclists of electric or motorised bicycles or vehicles found guilty in accidents with pedestrians to pay compensation for medical fees.
Khaw Boon Wan stated that current law already allows injured persons to seek compensation via private settlement or civil court action.
He added that in criminal cases, courts can consider ordering compensation based on the circumstances of each case.
The response indicates existing mechanisms address compensation without the need for new legislation.

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8 Nov 2016

Criteria for Granting Foreign Entity Permit to Engage in Activities Relating to Speakers' Corner Events

Seah Kian Peng asked about the criteria for granting foreign entities permits for Speakers' Corner events, to which K Shanmugam explained that non-Singapore entities require permits and are assessed case-by-case based on law and order concerns and whether the event addresses race or religion.
Permits will not be granted to foreigners or non-Singapore entities if the event relates to political or controversial social issues, reinforcing that Speakers' Corner is primarily for Singaporeans.
Singapore entities can organise or assist events without permits under the Public Order (Unrestricted Area) Order 2016, which changed in November 2016, while non-Singapore entities remain exempt from this allowance.

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8 Nov 2016

Investigations into "Penny Stock" Cases

The Prime Minister affirmed that Singapore has robust safeguards and a regulatory regime comparable to other developed markets, with effective enforcement to detect and deal with market misconduct swiftly.
The Singapore Exchange, Monetary Authority of Singapore, and Commercial Affairs Department collaborate closely, using surveillance systems, joint investigations, and enhanced capabilities like data analytics to tackle securities fraud.
Investigations can be lengthy due to the complexity of evidence and challenges like uncooperative suspects, but resources are commensurate with market size and comparable to other developed markets.
Enforcement actions have been taken, with 21 civil penalty actions by MAS and 34 prosecutions by CAD between 2011 and 2015 for market misconduct.
The focus is on specialized units with dedicated expertise rather than just increasing staffing, to effectively investigate and deter securities fraud.

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7 Nov 2016

Staffing and Caseload of Serious Sexual Crimes Branch

Chen Show Mao inquired about the staffing, rationale, caseload, and case-referral criteria for the Serious Sexual Crimes Branch (SSCB), which handles serious sexual crimes like rape and aggravated sexual assault by penetration.
K Shanmugam explained that SSCB leads investigations into serious sexual crimes, while other sexual crimes are handled by specialist teams in police land divisions, with resources scaled up as needed.
In the past three years, SSCB has investigated about 170 cases annually of rape and sexual assault by penetration, with nearly all cases solved.

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7 Nov 2016

Considerations for Review of Fire Code after Jurong West Market and Coffee Shop Fire

Assoc Prof Daniel Goh asked the Minister for Home Affairs about the cause, origin, and rapid spread of the Jurong West market and coffee shop fire, whether automatic sprinklers would have helped, and if fire code requirements for such premises should be reviewed.
The Minister stated that the fire on 11 October 2016 was caused by arson, with a male Chinese arrested and charged, and that the fire spread quickly from ignited styrofoam and cardboard boxes at two stalls.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force responded swiftly, extinguishing the fire by 4:26 am, but the property damage was extensive and three residents were hospitalised for breathing difficulties.
The Minister explained that automatic sprinklers are not mandatory for wet markets, which are typically open and well-ventilated, and that the incident was a criminal act, so no additional fire code requirements for all wet markets are needed.

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7 Nov 2016

Response to Ransom Threats on Internet

Foo Mee Har inquired about the legality of paying ransom and how to respond to internet ransom threats, with K Shanmugam stating that paying ransom for kidnapping is an offence under the Kidnapping Act, but generally not an offence for other threats like ransomware, though victims are advised not to pay due to no guarantee of file recovery and should report to police.
Prevention is emphasized, including caution with unfamiliar emails, avoiding suspicious downloads, and using firewalls, spam filters, and updated anti-virus software, while regular data backups are recommended for both individuals and corporations.
Victims of ransomware are urged to lodge police reports immediately as a key response, alongside preventive measures, to address cyber threats effectively.

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7 Nov 2016

Actions against Persons for Attempted Suicides in 2015

Police officers respond to attempted suicide cases with sensitivity and compassion, prioritizing the individual's safety and using handcuffs only when necessary to prevent harm or escape.
Individuals taken into custody may be sent to police stations, hospitals, IMH, or referred to SOS, but the police do not maintain data on specific referral numbers to IMH or SOS.
In 2015, only two out of 1,096 attempted suicide cases were prosecuted, highlighting that arrests aim to provide help rather than pursue charges, and detention duration varies based on case circumstances.

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7 Nov 2016

Rehabilitation Programmes for Different Risk Profiles under Enhanced Drug Rehabilitation Regime

The enhanced Drug Rehabilitation Regime implemented in 2014 by the Singapore Prison Service assesses inmates’ risk profiles upon admission to tailor rehabilitation programmes accordingly.
Higher-risk inmates receive high-intensity counselling from Correctional Rehabilitation Specialists addressing issues like criminal thinking and addiction, while lower-risk inmates undergo lower-intensity programmes focusing on relapse prevention and consequences of drug use.
All inmates participate in general programmes supporting reintegration, including family support, employability skills training, and religious services.
The effectiveness of the regime for different risk profiles is measured through ongoing evaluations, with the assessment of the 2014 implementation still in progress.

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7 Nov 2016

Recidivism Rate for Long Term Imprisonment 1 (LT1) and Drug Rehabilitation Centre (DRC) Inmates Released from 2010 to 2013

Christopher de Souza asked the Minister for Home Affairs for the recidivism rate of Long-Term Imprisonment 1 and Drug Rehabilitation Centre inmates released between 2010 and 2013.
The two-year recidivism rates for these groups from 2010 to 2013 were provided in a table.
Drug inmate recidivism has significantly decreased from 60%-70% in the 1990s due to rehabilitation programmes and tough enforcement.
The Singapore Prison Service has enhanced rehabilitation through tailored programmes under the 2014 Drug Rehabilitation Regime and intensified aftercare like mandatory casework for high-risk inmates.
Ongoing improvements include the Enhanced Supervision Scheme from 2012, offering more intensive support for long-term inmates.

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7 Nov 2016

Causes for Dislodged Platform Door at Sixth Avenue Downtown Line Station

Christopher de Souza asked for an update on the causes of the dislodged platform door at Sixth Avenue Downtown Line station on 4 October 2016 and whether safety issues were resolved.
Khaw Boon Wan stated that a bolt on the fastener had loosened, causing the door to misalign and be dislodged after contacting a train, with no commuters hurt.
The LTA and SBS Transit issued a joint press release on 18 October 2016 detailing the findings.
Contractors are enhancing fasteners across the Downtown Line to prevent recurrence.
The incident was addressed with no reported injuries and preventive measures being implemented.

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7 Nov 2016

Safety Measures for Rides at Fun Fairs, Carnivals and Theme Parks

Amusement rides in Singapore are regulated under the Amusement Rides Safety Act by the Building and Construction Authority, requiring permits for installation, modification, and operation.
New rides and major modifications must be certified by a Qualified Person, and ride operators must appoint a Ride Manager to oversee daily safety checks and trained personnel.
Annual inspections and certifications are mandatory, with major rides reviewed by a Conformity Assessor, and BCA conducts operational inspections, such as 300 inspections in 2015 on 110 rides.
Enforcement actions, including suspensions, are taken if safety issues are found, and the government aims to uphold international safety standards with industry collaboration.
Ride users are encouraged to follow safety guidelines to contribute to a safe experience.

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7 Nov 2016

Actions against Foreign Entities that Undermine Singapore's Racial or Religious Harmony

Lim Biow Chuan asked whether Singapore's laws can be strengthened to prevent foreign entities from undermining racial or religious harmony through malicious lies.
K Shanmugam outlined existing laws such as the Penal Code, Sedition Act, and Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act, which criminalize incitement of hatred and disharmony, with penalties including imprisonment and fines.
The government has prosecuted violations under these laws and will continue to take a tough stand against actions that threaten racial and religious harmony.
The government will review its legislation to ensure it remains relevant in addressing threats to social harmony.

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7 Nov 2016

Motor Vehicle Accidents Involving Injury or Death of Elderly

From 2013 to 2016, 4% of accidents involving elderly pedestrians resulted in serious injuries and 11% in fatalities.
The Land Transport Authority launched the Silver Zone programme in 2014, which reduced accidents involving seniors from over 40 in five years to just one in implemented areas.
Plans include expanding Silver Zones to 50 locations by 2023 and enhancing features like Green Man Plus and road dividers to improve pedestrian safety for seniors.

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7 Nov 2016

Regulations for Motorcyclists Riding in HDB Void Decks and other Public Spaces

Darryl David asked about laws governing motorcycle riding and shortcuts in HDB void decks, pedestrian pathways, and parks.
Lawrence Wong explained that Town Councils manage and enforce by-laws prohibiting unauthorized off-road riding in common areas and can impose penalties.
The Police may investigate and take action against motorists involved in rash acts that endanger safety in these spaces.

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7 Nov 2016

Measures to Deter Social Media from Sowing Discord among Racial and Religious Groups

Minister K Shanmugam stated that Singapore's laws, including the Penal Code, Sedition Act, Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act, and Telecommunications Act, criminalize social media posts or publications that sow discord among racial and religious groups, with penalties such as imprisonment, fines, or both for first offences.
Specific offences like promoting enmity under section 298A of the Penal Code or ill-will under the Sedition Act carry imprisonment up to three years, fines up to $5,000, and harsher punishments for repeat offenders.
The Minister emphasized that there have been prosecutions for such transgressions and reiterated the government's tough stance and zero tolerance against anyone undermining Singapore's racial and religious harmony.
The government plans to review existing legislation to ensure it remains relevant in deterring harmful online content.

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7 Nov 2016

Publicity of Workplace Safety Practices by Premises Owners

Premises owners must take reasonably practicable measures to ensure workplace safety, including conducting risk assessments for independent contractors under the Workplace Safety and Health Act.
Service buyers are encouraged to adopt the bizSAFE programme and procure services from certified contractors to enhance safety for independent contractors.
The Ministry of Manpower and WSH Council conduct year-round awareness campaigns, provide free resources, and collaborate with partners like NTUC to educate independent contractors on safety practices.
Independent contractors are responsible for enhancing their own safety capabilities through accredited training and adhering to safe work practices.
Tripartite partners continue to work together to create safer workplaces for all workers, including independent contractors.

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