Transport

Edward Chia Bing Hui asked about the key lessons learned from the Bukit Panjang LRT disruptions in July 2025 and whether these issues indicate a design flaw or lack of engineering expertise. Jeffrey Siow responded that this question was previously addressed in an earlier parliamentary session on September 22, 2025, referring to specific reports on MRT and LRT breakdowns and measures for improvement.

Cai Yinzhou asked the Acting Minister for Transport about the current number of vehicles approved for registration under voluntary welfare organisations and the possibility of including specialised vehicles for transporting vulnerable persons. Jeffrey Siow confirmed that as of September 2025, 274 vehicles are registered under voluntary welfare organisations through the COE Exemption Scheme. He also noted that the COE Exemption Scheme was replaced in 2018 by the COE Grant Scheme, which allows eligible social service agencies to apply for assistance in acquiring vehicles for transporting individuals with disabilities or the elderly.

Fadli Fawzi questioned the compatibility of Tengah's eight-lane roads and limited bike paths with its car-lite vision and asked about prioritizing green transport in new towns. Jeffrey Siow explained that Tengah's infrastructure includes bus lanes and access to seven bus services, supporting public transport. Cycling paths are planned on both sides of the road, with some segments already in use, and will be completed progressively. The upcoming Jurong Region Line will enhance connectivity for Tengah residents to key destinations and the broader rail network, with long-term studies for a new Tengah Line ongoing.

A proposal was presented to amend specific Acts concerning land and sea transport and to make a related amendment to the Public Utilities Act 2001. The proposal was introduced by the Senior Minister of State for Transport, Mr Murali Pillai, on behalf of the Acting Minister for Transport. It was read for the first time and is scheduled to be read a second time at the next available Sitting of Parliament. The proposal will be printed for further review.

Charlene Chen raised multiple questions regarding the evaluation of enforcement on pedestrian paths and cycling lanes, tracking safety feedback, and future measures to enhance pedestrian safety. The Minister of State for Transport, Baey Yam Keng, explained that the Land Transport Authority uses path markings and signage to differentiate cycling and pedestrian areas, while implementing safety measures like convex mirrors and community education campaigns. Enforcement officers monitor compliance and issue warnings or fines for violations, focusing on problematic areas based on resident feedback. Chen also inquired about recourse for pedestrians injured by cyclists, with the Minister mentioning the necessity for riders to assist accident victims and third-party insurance requirements for commercial riders. Lastly, while licensing cyclists was discussed, the Minister emphasized the preference for educational initiatives to ensure safe riding practices.

Ang Wei Neng asked about the possibility of building more covered linkways connecting HDB blocks to MRT stations beyond the current 400m radius. The Minister of State for Transport, Baey Yam Keng, responded that in 2024, the LTA plans to construct covered linkways extending to 800 meters from MRT stations, connecting to Friendly Streets and key amenities. Ang Wei Neng emphasized the need for these linkways to serve more residents by considering human traffic patterns, suggesting that the policy be adjusted to benefit a larger community. Baey Yam Keng acknowledged the popularity of covered linkways and stated that LTA prioritizes connections that serve many commuters, balancing feedback with site constraints and safety requirements.

Rachel Ong asked about plans to upgrade the North East Line (NEL) and how the Ministry of Transport intends to balance expanding the MRT network with upgrading existing lines. Jeffrey Siow responded that this issue was addressed in a written reply during the previous Parliament Sitting, referencing a report on NEL's train capacity.

Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik questioned the Government about plans to expand the number of car-lite HDB estates beyond those currently designated. Jeffrey Siow confirmed that since 2019, 16 car-lite areas have been gazetted, including public housing estates like Tengah, Bayshore, and Ulu Pandan. The authorities will continue to evaluate land use and transport plans, taking into account nearby amenities for future car-lite area considerations.

Rachel Ong questioned the Acting Minister for Transport regarding ongoing disruptions on the North-South and East-West Lines despite upgrades since 2015, asking for explanations on the nature of these disruptions, their causes related to upgraded parts, and their impact on future upgrading plans. Jeffrey Siow indicated that this issue has been addressed in previous parliamentary sessions and referred to the Official Report from 22 September 2025 for details.

Saktiandi Supaat asked the Acting Minister for Transport if safety, licensing, and work permit rules were discussed in a recent meeting with Malaysian representatives regarding cross-border point-to-point transport. Jeffrey Siow referred to a previous written reply provided during the 23 September Parliament Sitting, indicating that the question had been addressed there.