Public safety & law — Topics

8 Apr 2025

Deviation from Protocol for Reporting of Suspected Child Abuse in Case of Four-year-old Who Died in February 2020

Ms. Hazel Poa questioned why the preschool staff did not report visible bruises on a four-year-old child who later died from abuse, instead informing the child's mother and her boyfriend.
The Minister for Social and Family Development, Masagos Zulkifli, acknowledged that the preschool submitted an incident report that inadequately described the child's injuries, leading to insufficient intervention.
In response to the incident, the Ministry has enhanced protocols for child protection, including mandatory use of a standardized assessment tool and improved reporting timelines for suspected abuse.
Preschools are now required to document visible injuries with diagrams and consult relevant helplines for serious concerns, aiming to improve the accuracy of assessments and interventions.
The Ministry has committed to reviewing child death cases to identify lessons learned and systematically improve child protection measures.

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8 Apr 2025

Timeline between Discovery of Corporate Misappropriation and Securing of Asset Freezing Orders

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim raised concerns about the duration between discovering corporate misappropriation and securing asset freezing orders, questioning the potential for asset dissipation by sophisticated actors.
Minister for Law K Shanmugam explained that the courts have the authority to grant freezing orders, which are based on established case law and require appropriate evidence to prevent abuse.
The current civil procedure allows for quick ex parte freezing orders in urgent cases, but there are risks of unscrupulous individuals attempting to hide assets before or after such orders are issued.
Shanmugam noted that while the evidentiary threshold for obtaining freezing orders is a point of discussion, lowering it could increase the risk of abuse and negatively impact legitimate businesses.
The government does not track the average duration for securing freezing orders, as this falls under the jurisdiction of the courts.

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8 Apr 2025

Concurrent Installation of Speed Limiters and ERP 2.0 System on Lorries

Melvin Yong Yik Chye raised concerns about the low adoption of speed limiters on lorries and suggested that the Traffic Police collaborate with LTA to facilitate their installation alongside the ERP 2.0 system.
K Shanmugam responded that lorry owners can currently install both the speed limiter and the ERP 2.0 system at six designated workshops.
The Traffic Police plan to appoint additional workshops to enable the concurrent installation of both devices.

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8 Apr 2025

Efforts to Curb Illegal E-sports Betting in Singapore

Melvin Yong Yik Chye inquired about the Ministry of Home Affairs' efforts to combat illegal e-sports betting in Singapore.
The Singapore Police Force has blocked over 3,800 illegal gambling websites and more than 145,000 illegal transactions worth approximately $37 million as of December 2024.
Enforcement actions have led to the arrest of over 950 individuals involved in illegal remote gambling from 2020 to 2024.
The strategy aims to redirect gamblers to the only licensed operator, Singapore Pools, which implements social safeguards to reduce gambling-related harms.
The situation remains challenging, highlighting the difficulties in addressing illegal remote gambling activities.

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8 Apr 2025

Accidents Involving Foreign-registered Motorcycles and Raising Awareness of Safe Riding Techniques

In 2024, 33% of motorcycle accidents in Singapore involved foreign-registered motorcycles, according to the Singapore Police Force's report.
The Minister for Home Affairs, K Shanmugam, highlighted ongoing enforcement operations by the Traffic Police targeting errant motorcyclists at land checkpoints.
The Traffic Police also conducts regular road safety talks at workplaces with many foreign workers to promote safe riding techniques.

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8 Apr 2025

ASEAN Cooperation to Tackle Labour Trafficking and Scam Centres in the Region and Number of Singaporeans Exploited

Singapore is actively cooperating with ASEAN partners to combat labour trafficking and scam centres through intelligence sharing, joint investigations, and coordinated enforcement efforts.
The government has not verified any incidents of Singaporeans being victims of human trafficking related to scam centres since 2023, although consular assistance was offered to five individuals who did not accept it.
In 2024, Singapore Police successfully dismantled 16 scam syndicates in collaboration with foreign law enforcement agencies.
Singapore participates in regional discussions and platforms focused on addressing transnational crimes, including scams and trafficking in persons.

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8 Apr 2025

Bail and Conditional Warnings for Alleged Reoffenders

The debate focused on the considerations for police decisions regarding bail and conditional warnings for alleged reoffenders.
Factors influencing bail decisions include the nature of the offence, the risk of reoffending, and the accused's history of compliance with bail conditions.
If an accused commits a new offence while on bail, their bail may be revoked, and future bail may involve stricter conditions or higher amounts.
Conditional warnings are issued to offenders in lieu of prosecution, contingent on not committing further offences within a specified period, with considerations including the severity of the offence and the offender's past behaviour.
Each case is evaluated on its unique circumstances, making it difficult to provide a comprehensive list of considerations for bail and conditional warnings.

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8 Apr 2025

Prevention of and Punishment for Sale of Data by Bank Employees with Access to Clients' Credit Card Information

Ms. Ng Ling Ling raised concerns about the potential abuse of client trust by bank employees with access to credit card information and inquired about measures to prevent data sales to scammers.
The Minister for Finance, Gan Kim Yong, stated that the Banking Act prohibits the disclosure of customer information without permission, with penalties including fines and imprisonment for violations.
Banks are required to implement IT controls to safeguard customer data and limit employee access based on necessity, as mandated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).
MAS expects banks to conduct audits to identify and mitigate risks related to data loss and to enhance their ability to detect unusual employee activities through advanced technologies.
The protection of customer information is emphasized as a fundamental aspect of banking operations, with ongoing investments in security measures expected from banks.

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8 Apr 2025

Response to Recommendations in Report on Transportation of Migrant Workers on Lorries

Mr. Ong Hua Han urged the Government to consider recommendations from a report on the transportation of migrant workers, including removing exceptions in the Road Traffic Act and providing transport subsidies.
The Minister for Transport, Chee Hong Tat, emphasized the priority of improving road safety but stated that banning lorry transportation is not feasible due to potential negative impacts on small- and medium-sized enterprises.
The Government is engaging with companies to understand challenges and promote safer alternative transportation methods for migrant workers.

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8 Apr 2025

Preschools' Procedures in Reporting Suspected Child Abuse and Preventing Withdrawal of Suspected Victims by Parents

The debate focused on the need for clear procedures in preschools regarding the withdrawal of children suspected to be victims of abuse by parents or guardians.
Questions were raised about the adequacy of current monitoring and reporting mechanisms for suspected child abuse in preschools, emphasizing the importance of direct reporting to authorities.
The Minister for Social and Family Development highlighted existing regulations that require preschool staff to report suspected abuse and outlined updated guidelines for handling such cases.
New protocols were introduced in 2021 to address concerns about children frequently absent or withdrawn from preschool, mandating reporting to social services when abuse is suspected.
The discussion included the importance of training for educators to recognize signs of abuse and their legal obligations to report, as well as the role of the public in reporting suspected cases.

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8 Apr 2025

Requiring Local Vehicles to be Serviced at Authorised Workshops and Foreign Vehicles to Submit Roadworthiness Proof Given Recurring Fire Incidents

Ms. Joan Pereira proposed that local vehicle owners should be required to service their vehicles at authorized workshops and that foreign vehicles should submit proof of roadworthiness from authorized foreign workshops due to recurring fire incidents.
Minister Chee Hong Tat emphasized that all Singapore-registered vehicles must undergo regular inspections at Authorized Inspection Centres, and those failing inspections cannot be used on the roads.
He noted that the cross-border movement of vehicles is regulated by the United Nations Convention on Road Traffic, allowing vehicles from signatory countries to enter Singapore if they meet specific standards.
Vehicle owners are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy, and the Land Transport Authority conducts spot checks, with penalties for non-compliance.

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8 Apr 2025

Regulations for Use of Power Banks during Flights on Airlines Departing From and Arriving at Changi Airport

Joan Pereira inquired about Singapore's regulations on power banks for flights at Changi Airport and suggested potential restrictions on their use and storage.
Chee Hong Tat outlined the current regulations, stating that power banks are prohibited in checked baggage and have specific capacity limits for hand-carry luggage.
Passengers can carry power banks up to 100 watt-hours without restrictions, while those between 100 and 160 watt-hours require airline approval, and those above 160 watt-hours are banned.
The use of power banks is prohibited during critical flight phases such as take-off, landing, and taxiing.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore regularly reviews regulations in line with international guidelines and ongoing safety investigations related to power banks.

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8 Apr 2025

Understanding and Responding to Intimate Partner Violence in Singapore

The debate focused on intimate partner violence (IPV) in Singapore, highlighting its prevalence and the need for comprehensive research and data collection on the issue.
Assoc Prof Razwana Begum emphasized the severe impacts of IPV on women, children, and families, advocating for immediate legislative and systemic changes to better support survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
The Minister of State for Social and Family Development, Ms Sun Xueling, outlined existing legislative frameworks and community efforts to combat domestic violence, stressing the importance of a whole-of-society approach to address the issue effectively.
Recommendations included enhancing support services for survivors, improving legal protections, and integrating technology to assist in prevention and response efforts.
Both speakers acknowledged the need for ongoing public education and community engagement to foster awareness and intervention in cases of domestic violence.

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8 Apr 2025

Anti-Money Laundering and Other Matters (Estate Agents and Developers) Bill

The Anti-Money Laundering and Other Matters (Estate Agents and Developers) Bill aims to strengthen Singapore's regulatory framework against money laundering, terrorism financing, and proliferation financing in the real estate sector, aligning with international standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
Key amendments include increasing penalties for non-compliance, expanding due diligence obligations to cover unrepresented parties in transactions, and clarifying restrictions on individuals convicted of related offenses.
Concerns were raised about the potential burden on smaller estate agencies and the need for support mechanisms to help them comply with the new regulations without incurring excessive costs.
The debate highlighted the importance of effective enforcement and compliance, with calls for a balanced approach that does not stifle legitimate business activities while ensuring robust measures against financial crime.
The Minister emphasized that the Bill is part of ongoing efforts to enhance Singapore's reputation as a trusted financial hub and that training and resources will be provided to assist the real estate sector in adapting to the new requirements.

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8 Apr 2025

The Government's Position on the Presumptions under the Misuse of Drugs Act

The Minister for Home Affairs, Mr. K Shanmugam, stated that the Government has no plans to amend the presumptions under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA), which have been in place since 1973, emphasizing their importance in combating drug trafficking.
The presumptions shift the burden of proof to the accused regarding their knowledge of the drugs, addressing practical challenges in prosecution, particularly in cases where evidence is difficult to obtain.
Mr. Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim raised concerns about the fixed quantity thresholds in the MDA and whether the Government is reviewing them in light of changing drug abuse patterns and new substances.
The Minister confirmed that the Central Narcotics Bureau conducts annual reviews of drug purity and weight thresholds to ensure they remain relevant to current drug trends.
The Minister also noted that the Certificate of Substantive Assistance has been beneficial in encouraging cooperation from offenders, aiding in the disruption of drug trafficking networks.

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8 Apr 2025

Proceedings on Ministerial Statement

The Minister for Home Affairs, Mr. K Shanmugam, sought consent to suspend a parliamentary standing order to present a Ministerial Statement regarding the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA).
The Minister clarified that the statement would outline the Government's general position on MDA presumptions without discussing a specific pending court case.
The Speaker granted consent, and Members present indicated their assent to proceed with the Ministerial Statement.
The motion to exempt the proceedings from the standing order was put to a vote and agreed upon, allowing the Minister to present the Government's position.

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8 Apr 2025

Risks Associated with NSFs in Frontline Firefighting Roles and Transitioning these Roles to Fully Professional Force

Full-time National Servicemen (NSFs) make up about 42% of the Singapore Civil Defence Force's (SCDF) frontline firefighting personnel, supplemented by Operationally Ready National Servicemen (ORNSmen) and volunteer firefighters.
The SCDF emphasizes the importance of training and safety protocols for all firefighters, ensuring they are well-equipped and capable of handling the physical demands of firefighting.
Concerns were raised about the long-term physical fitness of NS reservists and the psychological support available for NSFs in demanding firefighting roles.
The Minister of State highlighted ongoing training, medical fitness assessments, and teamwork as critical components in maintaining the readiness and safety of SCDF personnel.
The SCDF continuously reviews training and operational safety protocols to ensure that all firefighters can effectively respond to emergencies.

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8 Apr 2025

Assisting Claimants to Seek Recourse from Retailers who Ignore Enforcement Orders of Small Claims Tribunal

Mr. Liang Eng Hwa raised concerns about the challenges claimants face when retailers ignore enforcement orders from the Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) and sought assistance for these claimants.
The Minister of State for Law, Mr. Murali Pillai, explained that SCT orders are enforced through the State Courts and that the process for applying for enforcement has been simplified.
Claimants with limited means can access legal advice and aid through the Legal Aid Bureau and other legal clinics, but awareness of these resources is a key issue.
Mr. Liang emphasized the need for more support, particularly for seniors, to help them navigate the enforcement process and recover their claims.
The Minister acknowledged the importance of raising awareness about available assistance and expressed willingness to collaborate on improving support for claimants.

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8 Apr 2025

Reviewing and Enhancing Safety Measures in Marine Sector in View of Increased Workplace Fatalities

The debate focused on the increase in workplace fatalities in the marine sector, with five fatalities reported in 2024 compared to none in 2023, prompting calls for enhanced safety measures.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has implemented corrective actions, including a Safety Time-Out initiative and collaboration with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) to improve workplace safety protocols and training, particularly in commercial diving.
Investigations into the fatalities revealed issues such as improper use of diving equipment and accidents occurring in remote locations, raising concerns about emergency response times and the need for better medical access.
The Senior Minister of State for Manpower acknowledged the fluctuating safety records and emphasized the importance of building a strong workplace safety culture and improving safety oversight in the marine sector.
There is a commitment to ongoing monitoring and engagement with marine companies to address safety concerns and enhance the overall safety performance in the sector.

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8 Apr 2025

Managing Prison Inmates with Dementia and Supporting Their Re-integration into Society

Inmates with dementia face challenges similar to those in the community, including difficulties with memory, communication, and daily tasks, which the Singapore Prison Service addresses through tailored support and medical care.
The Singapore Prison Service provides specialist medical care for inmates with dementia and offers family support through Family Resource Centres, while also facilitating referrals to nursing homes for those lacking family support upon release.
Usha Chandradas proposed the establishment of a dedicated dementia ward in prisons, highlighting the increasing prevalence of dementia in an aging society and suggesting a model similar to assisted living cells for physical impairments.
The Minister of State assured that needs assessments are conducted for all incoming inmates, including evaluations of medical needs and security risks, and emphasized the importance of rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
The Ministry conducts regular assessments of in-prison support systems for inmates with dementia and is committed to ongoing care and rehabilitation efforts for this vulnerable population.

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