Religion, race & rights — Topics

7 Nov 2023

Guidelines for Insurers to Adopt Fair and Responsible Practices towards Persons with Disabilities and Those with Mental Health Conditions

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has proposed guidelines requiring insurers not to reject applications solely based on a disability or mental health condition, but to conduct objective risk assessments.
Insurers may still decline applications, charge higher premiums, or impose conditions based on the assessed risks, particularly for health insurance, to maintain business sustainability.
The government intends to finalize the guidelines by mid-2024 and subsequently withdraw Singapore's reservation on Article 25(e) of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

7 Nov 2023

Percentage of Students in Mainstream Schools Diagnosed with Special Education Needs

The Minister for Education reported that 6.9% of students in mainstream primary and secondary schools, approximately 27,000 students, have been diagnosed with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Access Arrangements, such as extra time, assistive technology, and exam component exemptions, are provided to help students with SEN demonstrate their knowledge and skills fairly during examinations.
The Ministry of Education and the Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board collaborate with schools, parents, and professionals to monitor students' needs and review the appropriateness of access arrangements.
Schools observe that students with SEN are able to better access examinations using these provisions, with school-based assessments used to check if arrangements address specific barriers.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

7 Nov 2023

Singapore's Approach towards Housing of Transgender Persons in Prison Settings

The Minister stated that housing decisions for transgender inmates in Singapore are based primarily on registered sex, not self-identified gender, with safety as the foremost consideration, and individuals may be housed alone or in shared cells if their registered sex placement poses safety risks.
He highlighted that if medical examinations reveal genitalia differing from registered sex, prisons house inmates individually pending specialist assessment to verify physical changes, after which registered sex updates are facilitated with the relevant authority.
In response to supplementary questions, the Minister noted that violence against transgender inmates in Singapore prisons is rare due to pre-emptive measures and tight control, and all inmates, including transgender persons, receive regular interviews and counselling as part of rehabilitation.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Proportion of Persons with Disabilities in Workforce in Firms with Fewer Than 25 Employees

Mr Ong Hua Han asked the Minister for Manpower for the proportion of persons with disabilities employed by firms with fewer than 25 employees for each year from 2020 to 2022.
The Minister for Manpower, Tan See Leng, provided the requested information in an appended table.
The figures are presented as two-year moving averages to smooth year-on-year fluctuations due to the small number of persons with disabilities surveyed.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Potential Impact of Ongoing Gaza Conflict on Singapore's Social Fabric

Saktiandi Supaat inquired about the potential impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict on Singapore's social cohesion and asked what lessons and efforts could strengthen societal bonds across races, religions, and among youths.
Edwin Tong Chun Fai responded that the issue had already been addressed in the parliamentary motion and clarifications on 6 November 2023, directing reference to the official report on "Solidarity, Security and Peace – The Israel-Hamas Conflict."
The debate highlighted the importance of maintaining social harmony in Singapore amid international conflicts and the need for proactive measures to reinforce unity.
The exchange underscored the government's approach to managing external events' effects on domestic social fabric through existing parliamentary discussions and official records.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Persons with Special Needs in Community Health Assistance Scheme (CHAS)

Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked about the percentage of CHAS card users who are persons with special needs over the past five years and whether special subsidies for them could be introduced.
The Ministry of Health stated it does not track data on CHAS cardholders who are persons with special needs or their subsidy usage.
The Ministry explained that healthcare subsidies under CHAS are based on medical conditions and income tiers, not specific demographic groups like persons with special needs.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Achieving Domestic Peace Notwithstanding Ongoing Gaza Conflict

Christopher de Souza inquired about maintaining domestic peace amid the emotive Israel-Hamas conflict.
K Shanmugam redirected the query to a prior speech by Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim on the matter.
The referenced speech is titled "Solidarity, Security and Peace – The Israel-Hamas Conflict" from 6 November 2023.
The debate centers on Singapore's approach to internal stability despite external geopolitical tensions.
The response emphasizes relying on earlier governmental statements for policy details.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Public Events and Assemblies in Relation to Gaza Conflict

Saktiandi Supaat asked the Ministry of Home Affairs about the number of applications received by the Singapore Police Force and the National Parks Board for public events and assemblies related to the Israel-Hamas conflict since 7 October 2023, and the specific checklist and guidelines for future applications.
The Minister for Home Affairs, K Shanmugam, stated that the Police received no permit applications for public assemblies related to the conflict, while NParks received eight applications to use Speakers’ Corner.
Police assess applications case-by-case considering public order, safety, and security, and do not grant permits to non-Singaporeans for political purposes or election campaigning.
Applications for events related to the conflict were turned down due to public safety and security reasons, and guidelines can be found in the Public Order (Unrestricted Area – Speakers’ Corner) Order 2023 and NParks’ terms and conditions on its website.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Effect of Gaza Conflict on Singaporeans and Singapore's Humanitarian Efforts in Region

The debate explored how the Gaza conflict affected Singapore’s diplomatic relations with Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and the wider Middle East, as well as the potential impact on Singaporeans and non-Singaporean residents of various ethnicities and religions, and lessons for strengthening multiculturalism and religious harmony.
MPs sought clarity on the basis for Singapore’s $300,000 humanitarian aid contribution to the Red Cross, the possibility of increasing aid, and how such efforts would be directed, including the creation of safe humanitarian corridors for Gaza and whether these actions were discussed during the Prime Minister’s recent visit.
The Minister addressed queries on the number of Singaporeans in Israel, evacuation plans, and potential joint ASEAN evacuation efforts, directing reference to the official parliamentary record of the 6 November 2023 debate on the motion.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Introduction of “Calm Spaces” in Public Venues

Member See Jinli Jean asked about plans to introduce “calm spaces” in public venues for individuals with invisible disabilities under the National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy, including locations and timelines.
Minister Ong Ye Kung stated that calm spaces already exist in several venues like the National Gallery, National Library branches, dementia day care centres, and IMH to provide private, safe areas for relaxation.
The Minister clarified that there are no plans under the Strategy to introduce dedicated public calm spaces for a single client group, but ground-up efforts to promote mental well-being are welcomed.
He noted that Singapore’s dense urban environment ensures public places of peace and quiet through land use planning and building codes.
The Minister emphasized that everyone has a role in improving the mental health and well-being of the population.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Wayfinding Floor Graphics Pointing towards Elevators at MRT Platforms to Help Wheelchair Users

The Minister confirmed that MRT stations already have “Priority Use” signs and floor tactile guiding systems to help wheelchair users and the elderly locate lifts, with operators trialling directional floor stickers at concourses.
LTA consulted social service agencies on adding wayfinding floor graphics on platforms, but feedback indicated these might be less visible during peak hours than existing signs, so no immediate plans were announced for such graphics.
The government encourages commuters to offer assistance to those with mobility needs and will continue promoting an inclusive commuter culture through initiatives like the Caring SG Commuter Committee.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Guidelines for Performances at Autonomous Universities to Ensure Reflection of Widely-accepted Social Norms

Ang Wei Neng asked whether the Ministry of Education will set guidelines for public performances at autonomous universities to ensure they reflect widely accepted social norms in Singapore, following a university's admission that a queer-themed performance should not have been publicly held.
Chan Chun Sing responded that autonomous universities are common spaces for neutral learning and discourse, and must respect Singapore's social norms while exercising judgment and sensitivity on divisive issues.
He stated that universities have autonomy to manage campus activities within national guidelines and laws, including public performances, without specifying new ministry guidelines.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Applications for Job Redesign Grant and Training Grant under Open Door Programme

In 2020 to 2022, about 90 firms per year received support through the ODP Training Grant and 20 firms per year through the Job Redesign Grant, with all grant applications during this period being successful.
Specific projects supported by the Job Redesign Grant include installing screen readers for visually impaired employees, providing audio assistive devices for those who are deaf, using tablets with visual guides for employees with autism, and making physical workplace adjustments like ramps and sliding doors for wheelchair users.
The ODP has supported the employment of about 500 persons with disabilities per year on average from 2020 to 2022 through grants, job placement, and post-placement support.
SG Enable engages employers directly and through trade associations to promote inclusive hiring and encourages more firms to use ODP support, with the government welcoming further employer participation.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

6 Nov 2023

Solidarity, Security and Peace – The Israel-Hamas Conflict

The debate shows strong consensus that Singapore supports a UN resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian truce in the Israel-Hamas conflict, condemns Hamas’s terrorist attacks, and affirms Israel’s right to self-defence while also condemning violations of international law.
Speakers emphasise the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, urge compliance with international humanitarian law, the release of all hostages, and unhindered access for aid, while reiterating commitment to a two-state solution.
MPs highlight the need to safeguard Singapore’s multiracial and multi-religious harmony, combat misinformation, and avoid public assemblies that could divide society or compromise security.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

4 Oct 2023

Areas of Discrimination Not Covered under Upcoming Workplace Fairness Legislation

The new Workplace Fairness Legislation will not cover discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, political affiliation, or other less common characteristics, but such areas remain protected under the Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices (TGFEP).
To encourage reporting, the legislation will protect employee identities and prohibit retaliation, while unions and TAFEP will provide advice; employees can also approach the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM) for mediation to mend relationships and address concerns about career jeopardy.
TADM will focus on mediation and education to resolve disputes, aiming for harmonious workplaces and offering remedies like reinstatement or apologies, while the tripartite partners will strengthen education and publish guides to clarify what constitutes discrimination.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

4 Oct 2023

Renewal of Existing Leases for Places of Worship Land under Revised Land and Pricing Allocation Framework

Murali Pillai asked whether religious organisations renewing leases for places of worship land should have to meet the same qualification criteria as those applying for new land through the ballot system to ensure they continue community-focused programmes.
K Shanmugam explained that the prequalification criteria for new land balloting aim to prioritise religious organisations that contribute to the community and demonstrate need.
He noted that lease renewals are assessed separately by agencies based on whether the land use aligns with planning intentions and whether the organisation continues to serve community needs.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

4 Oct 2023

Extension of 24/7 On-demand Audible Traffic Signals to More Town Centres

The LTA has equipped 1,300 pedestrian crossings with audible traffic signals operating from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm to assist persons with visual impairment while minimizing late-night noise.
As part of the Enabling Masterplan 2030, 325 crossings across 10 town centres are being upgraded to 24/7 on-demand signals by 2025, with 62 completed so far; the usefulness will be monitored before considering further expansion.
LTA has received an average of eight noise complaints annually over the past five years, typically resolved by reducing audio device volume.
LTA is studying the feasibility of integrating traffic signals with third-party applications to enhance mobility for persons with visual impairment.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

4 Oct 2023

Enrolment Rates to Healthier SG Programme Based on Demographic Factors, such as Gender and Race

Minister Ong Ye Kung reported that 15% of the eligible population has enrolled in Healthier SG since its July launch, with no significant gender differences.
Enrolment rates vary by ethnicity, with Chinese at 16% (above the national average), while Malays and Indians are at 11%.
The Ministry of Health is collaborating with community groups like the People’s Association, SINDA, and M3 to promote enrolment.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

4 Oct 2023

Verification Checks to Ensure Compliance with Age Restriction for Entry into Arcades

The Ministry of Home Affairs requires arcade operators to verify age and restrict entry of persons under 16 on school days except during evening hours, with compliance enforced through licensing conditions and potential regulatory action.
The Ministry does not collect data on the number or expenditure of school-going youths who frequent arcades, and does not plan to mandate disclosure of winning odds for games, citing regulatory burden and the nature of some games.
From March 2024, the Ministry will cap prize values at under $100 and prohibit cash or equivalent prizes, while continuing to monitor gambling risks and collaborating with the Ministry of Education to educate students on entry restrictions.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source

3 Oct 2023

Incentives for Coffee Shop Operators Which Managed to Replace Sole Halal Food Stall after Original Vendor Ceased Operation

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked if the Ministry for National Development would offer incentives like discounted rental to coffee shop operators who successfully replace a sole halal food stall that ceased operation during the tenancy period.
Desmond Lee responded that HDB coffee shop operators are contractually required to maintain at least one halal stall and must find a replacement within the tenancy period if the original ceases operation.
He clarified that no discounted rental or incentives are provided to operators for fulfilling this contractual obligation to replace a halal stall.

Summary written by AI

Overview Original source